Beruflich Dokumente
Kultur Dokumente
Table Infidel
Painted The Other Woman
Julia James
Stripped of its false appearance ...
To suspect that his sister's husband is having an affair with
the beautiful, dangerously beautiful Marisa Milburne, Athan
Teodarkis decides to give an end to the romance. Sure the fortune
of Teodarkis will be an excellent bait to attract her attention, his
plan boils down to seduce her and then discard it. However,
contrary to what the merciless Athan believe, the shy Marisa is no
home wrecker. But, being innocent, is unable to resist the power
of seduction.
Scanning: Simone R.
Review: Samuka
Dear reader,
In unfaithful frame the view that Athan Teodarkis has
about Marisa Milburne could not be worse, after all, she wants to
steal the husband of his sister! Athan then decides to seduce
Marisa and then dismiss it. But things do not go as planned,
because he does not know of a detail: Marisa is innocent!
Canvas MacCabe engages in a beautiful mess Fireproof.
She needs to recover his passport, but he's in the hotel room of his
ex ... To complicate matters, in the middle of the mission, the way
it intersects with the private detective Zane Montoya. Now he
must keep it under surveillance, but rather have to convince
Canvas she needs protection!
Happy reading!
Editorial Team Harlequin Books
Translation Ligia Chabu
HARLEQUIN
2014
PUBLISHED BY AGREEMENT WITH HARLEQUIN BOOKS SA
All rights reserved. Prohibited reproduction, storage or
transmission, in whole or in part.
All characters in this work are fictitious. Any resemblance
to persons living or dead is purely coincidental.
Original title: PAINTED THE OTHER WOMAN
Copyright 2012 by Julia James
Originally published in 2012 by Mills & Boon Romance
Modem
Title: TOO CLOSE FOR COMFORT
Copyright 2013 by Heidi Rice
Originally published in 2013 by Mills & Boon Modern
Romance
Cover graphic design: Core i associated designers
Artwork cover: Isabelle Paiva
Publishing: ABREU'S SYSTEM
Printing:
RR Donnelley
www.rrdonnelley.com.br
Distribution to newsstands and magazines from all over
Brazil:
FC Commercial Distribuidora SA
Publisher HRLtda.
Street Argentina, 171,4o floor
Saint Kitts, Rio de Janeiro, RJ - 20921-380
Contact:
virginia.rivera@harlequinbooks .com
Prologue
Marisa gasped softly as the man in front opened the thin
box that just take the breast pocket.
- For you. - There was a loving expression in the eyes of
man, when he slid the box toward you. - I want you to accept it.
Marisa looked, pleasure written all over his face.
He slid a finger on the stones, which sparkled in the
candlelight on the table.
- It's beautiful! - Then his gaze became more upset. - But
are you sure ...?
The man nodded.
- Yes, absolutely.
Marisa took the box and reluctantly closed the lid, looking at
the man who had such a wonderful memory of her that she meant
to him. He put this in the bag ... the beautiful leather handbag and
designer, it was another gift from him. Then looked at him again.
He had eyes only for him! Certainly not for the middle-aged man
dining alone, a few tables away, moving her cell phone, her face in
shadows.
Now that Ian was in his life, Marisa had no eyes or thoughts
to anyone else. From the first meeting, he completely transformed
his life, and such a miracle still impressed. She had not imagined
when arrived in London a few months before, as everything would
change. Ah, had hopes, ambitions and goals ... but the fact that
they happened still marveled. And all this was due to the
handsome man sitting in front of him, looking at her with such
devotion.
She bit her lip. If only did not need to hide in the corners
Ian's life, be hidden from a critical world as a shameful secret.
However, I knew that was what would be seen. Never recognized
in public, to the world. Therefore, they could only be found in
places that Ian did not usually attend, where he was not known or
recognized, which did not have a chance to find someone who
questioned her dinner with her ... someone who knew both he and
Eve.
Eva ...
The name echoed the head of Marisa, haunting her like a
ghost that could not be exorcised. Oh, anguished thought, if only
Eve was not who he was! Feeling emotional, Marisa looked at the
beautiful smiling face across the table. If only Eve was not the
woman who was in the life of Ian ...
Chapter I
Athan Teodarkis looked at the photos scattered on his
desk. His carved mouth pressed into a thin line.
who could not resist. A woman who was using his wealth.
However, not much of their time, yet. That was the only optimistic
point Athan could see that sordid situation.
The investigation did not find evidence that Ian Randall
visited the girl in his luxury apartment - not yet, at least - and he
also did not take her to hotels. So far, the only time he spent with
her was at restaurants ... always in isolated places ... and the only
evidence of Ian's adultery was his passionate expression.
I can stop it in time?
That was the main question of Athan. Ian Randall was, it
seemed, acting with caution, and that, at least, he was different
from his father, who had been totally unabashed about their cases.
However, if that devotion expression on his face was any
indication, he soon would throw caution to the wind and make the
girl his mistress.
This was inevitable.
With a frustrated sigh, Athan put the envelope on the table
again.
What am I going to do about it?
The question hung in his head like a dead weight. He had
to do something, it was inescapable. It was his responsibility.
Should have followed your instincts and prevented the marriage.
Oh, Eva would have been devastated, he knew, but she would be
when he found out what Ian had done?
He knew exactly what she was ... in what would become ...
if her husband would follow the same path of his father. She
would like the troubled and unhappy mother of Ian.
Athan grown up knowing how unhappy Sheila Randall was
in her marriage to Martin Randall, Ian's father. Sheila had been
the best friend of her mother, who had since school in Switzerland,
who used to vent on occasion.
His mother did her best to console her friend ... by phone or
exchanged visits between London and Athens. The Athan's
mother had spent a long amount of time trying to wipe the tears of
Sheila Randall; but despite Athan believe that the best course of
action would be that she divorce Randall Martin, Sheila was
apparently a hopeless romantic.
Despite all the evidence, she harbored the hope that her
husband discovered that he loved her and abandon his adulterous
lifestyle. And it had been supported by Athan's mother, who had
the same romantic mood ... a provision also shared by her
daughter, Eva.
That was the main reason for his concern for his sister. His
mother discovered that Martin Randall does not redeem, which
almost destroyed her own wedding ... and his friendship with
Sheila. Because Martin Randall not saving the best friend of the
wife of his libertine attention. His attempt to seduce her during one
of her visits to his wife, caused a terrible fight in the two families.
Your mother will need to work hard to convince her husband that
the advances of Martin Randall were neither invited nor welcome,
and outside need the same effort persuasive to convince Sheila
the same thing.
Anger come Athan. Men like Martin Randall caused
suffering and problems in their path. He almost managed to
destroy the marriage of their parents. If the child to be like him,
cast the same kind of devastation around them.
But, not at all, Athan allow Ian cause this kind of damage.
Would do anything to prevent it.
If at least Ian had not deceived Eve by his charm. And not
only Eve ... he deceived his own mother ... Sheila.
Ian Randall had become the "darling" of the mother ...
especially after her father's untimely death. And, with his good
looks and supreme confidence in his own ability to attract women,
it exercised influence over them as a teenager and young adult
when.
If Athan had realized how much Ian was spoiled by his
mother, would never have let Eve approaching him. But when
Athan mother died tragically, and her sister was just 18 years old,
sincere invitation Sheila Randall to Eva was living with her in
London seemed a godsend.
Having already lost his father in a heart attack two years
earlier, the second blow was very painful for Eva. Athan, who had
to take over the company of his late father had been a lot of work,
and his bachelor apartment in Athens was not appropriate for a
teenager. And besides, Eva could not live alone in the family
mansion, only with employees.
Moving to London to live with the beloved best friend of her
mother and download your university for a London had been a
much better choice for Eva. In Sheila, Eva won a surrogate
mother, who had put her under his wing, and Eve, now widow
Sheila won a surrogate daughter.
Had also gaining a daughter.
Eva had fallen madly by the beautiful and spoiled son of
Sheila Randall. By Ian Randall answered the open burning of Eve
with a marriage proposal, this Athan did not know ... but he had his
suspicions. Ian had failed to take Eve to bed without a marriage
proposal? The prospect of marrying someone of the fabulously
wealthy family Teodarkis out a big draw too much for him?
Athan, however, was the only one to have misgivings. Or
Eve, with romantic stars in her eyes, or Sheila Randall, with her
maternal devotion to the child, the shared So before the happiness
of her sister, Athan had reluctantly accepted the marriage. Even
it. And while this was done ... well, he would need a temporary
place to live.
And he knew exactly where it would be ...
Marisa was heading home in the twilight of a winter day,
walking along the sidewalk large quickly, but with a lightness in
steps that echoed the lightness in your heart. Despite the busy
traffic, Holland Park Road was a part as affluent London that she
did not care. Compared to the place that lived once arrived there,
it was a different world. A tiny apartment, a room with a cracked
sink in the corner and a shared hall bath dirty, had been all she
had been able to pay with your meager salary. London was so
expensive! She had known it would be, but the reality of what had
proved even tougher than anticipated Marisa.
The money she had reserved to make the trip to Devon and
settle was over, but assumed - wrongly - to get a job with a decent
salary would not be difficult. Certainly, much easier than it had
been in Devon, where jobs were scarce and underpaid. But
discovered that the costs to live in London were very high ...
especially housing. She never had to pay for housing before. The
cottage where grown could be old and small but at least it was his
family. The London rents, even precarious accommodation in
declining areas, were very high. This meant that even after she
found a job during the day, was forced to accept a second job in
the evenings.
All this changed completely now. His life could not have
become more different. And all thanks to Ian!
Meeting him was amazing. And the transformation he had
produced in his life was total. Marisa smiled to think of it. The
moment Ian discovered the hole where she lived, had shaken her
magic wand and organized for her to move to a luxury apartment
in Holland Park, paying their rent and all your expenses.
And it was not just the apartment he was paying.
She smoothed the soft leather of her purse as she walked,
and looked at his beautiful boots, feeling deliciously warm in fur
coat that protected against the cold February air. The weather
here in the east was certainly cooler than in the West, but in
Devon, especially on the edge of Dartmoor, where the cottage
was, the winter winds could pick up tiles of roofs and felling trees.
Heavy rain could penetrate the worn window frames and hang in
chimneys, and on the fireplace, which was the only heat source in
the cottage.
Fireplaces might seem romantic to tourists, but they did not
have to look for wood in any kind of weather, let alone clean the
gray morning after morning.
Not that tourists would want to go in a chalet like yours,
someday, that was nothing romantic or modern conveniences with
which the townspeople were accustomed. His cottage was real life
... the residence of a farm worker who had never been
modernized, and is supplied with electricity. It still contained the
original stone sink in the kitchen and although his mother had
painted the cabinets and put wallpaper around the site, making it
possible to leave the cozy cottage, Marisa always dated and had
considered poor.
His mother did not mind, however. Was grateful to have his
own place ... even a decadent. Marisa had known financial
difficulties while growing up. His mother had had no one to look
after her ...
Unlike daughter.
Again, Marisa experienced that inner lightness. Ian was
caring for her ... so generously! She was delighted by his
insistence to offer you a wonderful apartment to live. He delighted
to give you money to spend herself, telling him to go to the salon,
do your nails and hair, and to buy clothes ... lots and lots of
clothes. Beautiful clothes, that Marisa had only seen in magazines
fashions and now filled the wardrobe in her new apartment.
And delighted, above all, by Ian's insistence that it should
be in his life from now on ... what he had said to him strongly
during dinner the week before, when you had the wonderful
necklace that had stolen his breath .
A touch of sadness to hit.
Because for more than Ian enjoyed, she could only exist on
the periphery of his life ... would never be recognized or accepted.
A lump formed in his throat. Always be what was now to
Ian. Nothing more than that.
A secret that would never be revealed ...
Athan looked at the notebook on the coffee table in front of
him. His head was only partially the on-screen report. The other
part was on the phone, next to the notebook. At any time, touch,
he knew. The private investigator hired to follow her steps now will
report the movement of Marisa toward the building. The next call
was to inform him that she entered the lobby and headed to the
elevator.
He closed his notebook, keeping it in his leather briefcase
and taking him to get up. Your car already waiting at the curb.
He would have to show up on time. He walked to the front
door, holding the phone, waiting for the touch. Paused by the door
closed. Two minutes later, the phone rang.
- The target has just entered the building, and the elevator
doors are opening. The climb to the floor will be completed in 19
seconds.
Marisa scolded herself as she got out of bed and went to the
kitchen. Should not be depressed when he needed to cancel the
rare occasions when they met. How to feel sorry for herself
because she was alone ... well, that was unforgivable.
Look at where I live now ... for what my life is now. How
easy, how luxurious. And all thanks to Ian.
However, while boiling water in the kettle and heated a
piece of pie in his luxurious kitchen, could feel sadness
surrounding her.
Determined to such amazing feeling, she went to the living
room, looked at the beautiful furniture, for soft wool rug and the
rich silver shutters framing the window. He looked at the scene two
floors below. The street was quiet, lined with trees that flourish in
the spring.
Cars - expensive cars, because that was, as witnessed his
apartment, an expensive area of London, where only rich and
influential people could live - lined the curbs. She was grateful that
Ian had chosen an apartment in a place so quiet, and so close to
Holland Park, because despite the London charm, Marisa was
used to the quietness of the countryside.
It started to get dark now, and few people walked around.
There was a void in the view that seemed to echo inside empty.
She did not know anyone in London. Only Ian. The other
women who worked briefly were foreign, and she had always been
the odd among others, though his colleagues had been friendly.
She learned that London would be a big and busy place, and that
would not know anyone, but had not imagined how could feel so
alone in a crowd.
How lonely still felt, despite the luxury in which he lived.
Angry with his own self-pity, she turned, closing the curtains
and lighting of the stylish lamps on the table. A cup of tea,
something to watch on huge television and later prepare
something to eat and sleep early. I had no complaints.
And I'm used to being lonely ...
Living alone with his mother, on Dartmoor, Marisa got used
to his own company. Last year in Devon, having taken the pain for
the loss of his mother, days had passed without her to see a living
soul. It had taken more than a year for Marisa accept her mother's
death, even if the order had been almost a release. Since being hit
by a car, four years earlier, his mother had been confined to a
wheelchair, and that had been a torment to her. But the accident it
weakened the heart, too, and the stroke that had taken eighteen
months ago, had the torment.
And although the devastation the loss of his mother had
been complete, Marisa knew it had given him a chance to go
Knew the glow in his eyes ... dark and deep eyes.
She took a deep breath.Needed it to remember that a
complete stranger, no impact affecting him, was inside his
apartment, signaling that he liked what he saw. His brain seemed
to break in two. A half vibrated with perception. The other
screamed in warning. Time to pay attention to this.
Marisa shook his head.
- Thanks, but no.- She reached the milk and the coffee pot
closer to him. His smile was polite and his voice composed.
Just one more second, he studied her, then took both items
in a single hand. The other held a notebook folder.
- Once again, thank you. - He turned, returning to the hall,
pausing only to turn around halfway to her, near the door. - Good
night.
- Good night - said Marisa. Then closed the door.
Outside, Athan remained still for a moment. Interesting, he
thought. She answered him ... no doubt. Years of experience had
taught him when a woman found him attractive. But she stipulated
the limit when he had taken the second step, offering to teach her
how to use the coffee maker.
And if she had let me into the apartment, make fresh coffee
... share the drink with me. Let me go to the third step ...
suggesting order dinner so we could eat together?
If she had given him such an opening, what would he have
done?
I would have spent the night there, if she allowed me?
For a moment, a vivid image filled his head.
Blonde hair spread on a white pillow. A naked slender body
offered to him. A lovely living face with pleasure ... pleasure he
could give her.
Abruptly, he started walking toward his apartment, balancing
the milk and coffee in one hand as he took the key from his pocket.
When he entered, he realized he was hungry. Well, do coffee even if only instant - and would consult the Internet to order food at
home. There must be some nearby restaurant that made
deliveries.
Too bad, he thought, that the building did not have a
concierge to take care of this kind of thing for him. On the other
hand, a porter was the last thing Athan needed ... they usually
discovered too much about the locals. And if there was a need at
that time, was that the beautiful blonde had no information about
him that he did not tell you.
Mostly he knew about her relationship with Ian Randall.
And he was going to finish him off.
Marisa did not sleep well. Could wish it were because I was
disappointed to have not found Ian last night, but knew it was not
so.
It was because of that man, that tall, strong and ridiculously
beautiful that appear at your door the night before.
With the older approach the world! That's what I have to
remember!
He could not have come up with something more original
than borrow milk? And coffee. The problem was that, even though
she tried to label it as a transparent frame, another thought kept
bothering her.
A man with that magnificent appearance would not even
bend the finger to have women at his feet.
Certainly would not use this type of approach hit. In addition,
he turns off the elevator and could have guessed that she lived in
an apartment on that floor, but as known which of the other two
apartments was his? As a new tenant, he would not know. Which
meant that the act of ring your doorbell and ask for the items had
been sincere, and not a conquering trick.
Anyway, what did it matter?
But he offered to teach her how to use the coffee maker.
No, this does not prove anything. He probably just made the
offer for education ... thinking that Marisa had mentioned it on
purpose, so he offered help.
Oh, maybe he think I was trying to entice you to come ...
She cringed with embarrassment at the thought. However,
she refused to help, thankfully. He could not think she was trying to
seduce him, could it?
You behaved like a fool ... stammering and looking at him
with fascination.
Well, he certainly was used to this kind of reaction of
women. A man with that look would be.
And it was not just the looks of it, was it? Not only that sexy
foreign accent. There was a kind of aura around the man An air of
confidence, to be someone who gave orders, that had power and
did things he wanted to happen.
That was curious. Ian was rich and wore expensive clothes.
But not had that aura of power, or that air of authority.
A shiver ran down her spine, causing you distress,
restlessness. For a moment, Marisa stared into the darkness of his
room. Should not think about the incident tonight. Should forget it.
Should sleep.
But their dreams, when they came, were filled with the same
concern.
And a disturbing expectation ...
Athan left early for your office. Always left, thinking the early
hours of the most productive morning before the endless meetings
began. That morning, however, found its high level of decreased
productivity. Irritated him realize that he was passing in the mind
the little scene that created the night before: the way the blond hair
framed her face Marisa, cascading over her shoulders, the way
she looked at him, looking delighted, gasping voice and hoarse.
She was really, really lovely.
Well, he had already recognized this, and besides the fact
that her beauty would facilitate the implementation of his plan,
there was no reason to be thinking about it. He had a mountain of
work to do, and could not concentrate.
He also needed to think of a pretext to take Ian Randall
country. The imminent agreement on the West Coast would serve
the purpose. He could send Ian there. It might even mention the
trip to Eva. To suggest that would be an ideal opportunity for her to
go with Ian, and then take a vacation following ... flying to Hawaii,
for example. Eva accept the suggestion, he was sure.
What would ensure that Ian would stay away from London
for at least two weeks.
That's all the time I need to Marisa Milburne.
Athan did not doubt your ability to reach your goal. It was
experience, not vanity, that told him that women are not rejected it,
and there was no reason to suppose that it would be different.
Especially after last night. Any speculation that her
involvement with Ian was based on love had been discarded. No
woman in love with another man would react to it as Marisa
responded.
However, she did not embraced the attraction.
He frowned. How would she react to your next move?
Athan went online and did a quick search by clicking
"delivery before noon." Mission accomplished, closed the site and
put the mind at work. There was much to do, if he wanted to be
free in the late afternoon.
Marisa was washing in the hand of its beautiful new
sweaters when the intercom buzzed. Frowning, she answered.
- Delivery to Mrs. Milburne - announced the doorman.
Intrigued, she went down. When crossed the lobby and saw
a man standing on the sidewalk with a bouquet of white lilies and
smiled. Oh, Ian, fondly thought, how sweet. Just because you
could not find me last night.
But when he took the bouquet for your kitchen in order to
find a vase, and opened the small envelope attached to the
package, was surprised by the message of the card.
Thanks for milk and coffee ... his gesture was much
appreciated.
want to be rude, but was not going to melt whole because of the
exaggerated gesture of his gratitude.
- Not at all - he contradicted smiling - the kindness of
strangers must always be appreciated. You have no idea how
much I needed a coffee. Simply not occurred to me that although
these apartments come furnished, there would be no provisions in
the pantry. - He paused. - Tell me, you managed to make your
coffee you obey?
Marisa swallowed. He knew exactly what to do. Should
thank you for the flowers, then wish you "good night" and close the
door.
That was what he should do. Anything else was crazy. It
was asking for complications.
I do not need a handsome stranger in my life! And certainly
not this!
A shiver ran through her. Also, it could be anyone. Just
because wore an impeccable suit and lived in a luxurious
apartment did not mean it was not a serial killer ...
However, even while entertaining the possibility, she knew it
was very unlikely.
He had read the concern in his eyes? Had interpreted his
momentary hesitation as understandable reluctance to engage in a
conversation with a man she did not know? Probably because
before she could answer, he spoke again:
- I Beg Your Pardon. I'm being intrusive and presuming too
much, considering that hardly know each other.
If he had not apologized, she might have given you the
answer you intended. But there was something about the apology
in his body language, which stopped her. Or was it the way those
eyes with golden highlights studied his face? As if he could
achieve his soul, hypnotize her until she look at him?
- Not at all - she replied. - It was kind of you to offer help
with the coffee. But instant coffee is great for me, and I drink more
tea, anyway.
Oh, God, for he was talking about these things? Why had
not smiled and closed the door?
- Just what an English rose should drink - he replied.
And now there was open fun in his voice. That moved more
to her than that sexy accent.
- We, Greeks, however, we had coffee like water. A heritage
of our Turkish rulers.
- So you're Greek!
The words were out before she could stop them.
- Is that good or bad? - He asked, obvious humor in the
voice.
Chapter 2
- Well, what do you think? The actress must remain in
Hollywood?
The curtain had fallen, and Marisa was leaving the cabin.
The presence of Athan Teodarkis behind her was almost tangible,
as he followed. But then, had been tangible throughout the night.
Even when he was sitting on the other taxi's seat corner while they
went to the theater, and even more so when he sat beside her in
the box, the sleeve almost brushing his.
A hundred times, Marisa told herself that should never have
accepted that invitation. I had made a big mistake.
Did not know the man. For more prestigious it was the card
he had given her, was still a stranger, she knew not through a
formal presentation. What made you remember the feeling I
experienced when his lips had kissed her fingers ...
How such a formal gesture, could look so ... intimate ?, he
wondered, the feeling still permeating. Not with the same intensity,
but like a fever that refused to give in completely. She tried to
ignore it, tried to convince himself that this man did not cause him
such an effect, tried to talk to him about the play, the theater, the
London traffic, sounding composed and normal.
Deliberately, had dressed in a demure style. She would not
give you reason to think that she was interested. Or through their
ways or through their appearance. Then, the light-gray dress she
had chosen was elegant, but with high neckline and hitting at the
knees. His shoes were low-heeled, and the only jewelry she wore
was a string of hematite.
The hair was tied in a braid and the makeup was as discreet
as everything else.
Even looking a little surprised by his "behaved" look, he had
been courteous and conventional, but was not trying to seduce her
... to her relief.
It was a relief, was not it? She was pleased Athan treat her
as the wife of a friend or coworker. Or even as a middle-aged
woman. Because, of course, did not want him to treat her like she
was an attractive woman who was interested in, did you?
Of course not, she assured herself.
Keeping that in mind, answered now, as they entered the
lobby:
- I found very good actress. At first, I kept seeing the "star",
but after a while, just saw the character, and I think she did better
than expected.
- Interesting that she played the older sister and awkward he said - when her roles in Hollywood are always so glamorous.
- I imagine she has considered challenging to make a
different character.
- Yes, probably. - Then he commented on another actor
cast. When they came out on the sidewalk, and the cold air hit her,
Athan guided her to your left.
- I hope so much that you agree to have dinner with me now
- he said. - A trip to the theater is never complete without a dinner.
- Thank you for the lovely evening. I really enjoyed myself. She put a bright smile on her face. - Good night.
Athan looked. Sure, she was keeping the distance. Well, he
could accept it ... for now.
He gave her a half smile.
- Good evening, Marisa ... was glad you had fun. I also
really enjoyed the night.
Athan noticed she blushed before turn around, take the bag
key and open the door of the apartment. She shivered a bit in
doing so? And the reason he wanted it to be? He watched her go,
the delicate hand rising to wave before she closed the door.
For a moment he stood there, the closed expression,
thoughts spinning in his head. Conflicting thoughts that were a
waste of time. That interfered with its purpose.
Then, with an abrupt turn, walked into her own apartment
and entered.
Had taken the first step to her, as planned. Now, needed to
go to the next stage.
The idea he had for dinner came back to mind. It was a
simple and attractive idea ... and would separate unquestionably
Ian, in the shortest possible time.
He was still at a distance that ... had some preparation to
do. But when it was completed Marisa Milburne never would be
available for his brother.
- You will not open?
The voice contained Athan family fun, as she looked at the
envelope he had placed in front on their table at the restaurant.
Marisa knew that tone. It was as if he thought his strange behavior,
but chose to accept it.
As if what was happening was not happening at all. As if
she had not kept the distance over the last two weeks. Not that
Athan had tried to reduce that distance.
For several days after the meeting of the two disastrous,
Marisa had not seen him. Well, that was understandable. It had
been the weekend, and he had probably been to Athens. Or spent
time with someone else.
With a woman, of course. With a supermodel, or a
successful woman. Not with a provincial girl like her, who did not
attend social circles. She was someone he had taken to the
theater in the heat because they do not find a company that would
like that kind of piece. Not that Marisa was wanting more ... of
course not wanted. But it was better face it ... a woman who lived
alone, never left and was new in London usually just was involved
with a Greek tycoon breathtaking.
Going to the theater was unique. And when she arrived
home, realized he really appreciated the night. Not just because it
Not noticing the way light and shadows playing with his
features, the way his long fingers curled around the cup of coffee,
shaping it as if framing her face ...
Marisa felt a strange physical sensation. As if he could not
move. Could not do anything except sit there, breathing hard, heart
pounding.
Athan held his eyes. Something had changed in his eyes.
Burning with sudden light.
Marisa rose with a start.
- Oh, my God!I ... I think I left the oven on. I do not
remember turning off when I took the apple pie. I better go look ...
She hurried to the kitchen. He knew he had not left the oven
on, but had to break the moment. Had to stop what was beginning
to happen. How Come ...
Because if I had stayed ...
He could not think of what could have happened. Should go
back to the room, smiling and commenting that it was late.
And that's what she did. And stood, making it very clear that
he expected Athan get up. And that's what he did. But it was with
an amused expression, as if he knew why suddenly Marisa was so
hectic. He walked toward the door, turning to thank the dinner and
wish you a good night. There was a glow in the dark eyes, when
he added:
- Sleep well
- Thank you.- Marisa's voice was sharper than usual. He
felt the restless, with adrenaline pumping his blood. Why did he not
go away at once?
He kept looking at her like that?
For a moment that seemed endless, Athan continued
watching her, the inscrutable expression. Then, as if in slow
motion, she saw his hand extending, felt warm fingers brush
against his face, an incredibly light touch. It lasted only a moment,
but did warm up your skin, and even after he lowered his hand, as
if to continue playing it.
He gave an amused smile, still holding his gaze.
Marisa almost gave that means fatal step toward him. Knew
Athan to involve the arms and take her mouth ...
Almost.
But did not.
Gathering strength, stepped back.
- Good night.
- Good night.- The glow was gone from Athan eyes. The
voice was cold and polite. Then, gesturing briefly with the head, he
was gone.
In the hallway, with Marisa's door closed, Athan walked to
his own apartment. His face was troubled.
Chapter 3
- What do you think? The long flight worth it?
The family was amused tone in the voice of Athan, when he
asked the question. He knew what the answer. I knew from the
moment they had landed, out in the tropical heat, a thousand
kilometers to the southwest of London. He knew now, when they
were side by side on the small porch wooden beach hut.
Marisa turned to look at him.
- How can you ask? - She looked back at the scene before
him.
It was just like the photo of the prospectus ... but real. And
she was there ... in the middle of it all! Like a dream ... an exotic
and wonderful dream.
hear the gentle sound of the sea, the song of the cicadas and the
insistent croak three frogs.
They walked to the beach which was in front of his hut. A
moon was low in the sea, and its glow reflected in the water. A
gentle breeze was blowing, but the night was warm. She could feel
the wetness around him as a wrapping the network.
He looked up. Stars as bright as the golden lamps glowed in
the sky. She felt dizzy just looking up ... dazed by the champagne,
the sweet tropical air, the blood pulsing through his veins. He
seemed to be swinging ...
Hands circled her waist, steadying her. His gaze dropped to
meet his. Even in the moonlight, Marisa could see his expression.
What he was saying. He felt the soft, warm hands on her waist,
and her heart raced.
Athan murmured his name, and then it happened that she
had been waiting all night. In fact, from the moment that turns the
first time and the impact felt that it was causing him. In agonizingly
slowly, his mouth dropped.
The kiss was light as a feather, causing her lips, playing with
them, playing with the desire of both. Just when she thought she
could not take it anymore, Athan deepened the kiss, as if they
were no longer able to resist.
The Marisa heart pumping wildly as he kissed her with a
passion that dominated each direction of your body. There was
only one moment, just one kiss, worldwide ...
Took forever ... only lasted a short while. He turned her face
away, looking at her, whispering hoarsely:
- I want you so much ...
Marisa raised her mouth to his again, longing for the touch.
- I'm yours - she whispered.
Triumph shone in the dark eyes, and then Athan kissed her
again, hungrily, holding her in his arms and carrying her to the
balcony and inside their hut.
The air was hot inside the cabin, and in the fourth, when he
lowered it to the big bed, the heat was like a cocoon around them.
Marisa felt on fire. He quickly removed her dress, baring her
to his view on the meager light. She raised her arms above her
head so that her breasts rose up, noticing the dark eyes hungry for
them. She could hear him whisper something in Greek, but his
whole being was focused on feelings it aroused him.
Dear God, it was delicious. How soft velvet teasing and
arousing her, until his head was spinning, his body seeming to
ignite. Then the mouth Athan closed over one of her nipples, and
she moaned ... a powerful and primitive sound. After a moment, he
abandoned the nipple down to the mouth in a trail to his abdomen.
The hands were on her waist rose, so long fingers could continue
causing the nipples of her breasts.
Restlessness began to fill it. She wanted more ... more! Did
Athan. He grabbed her shoulders, pulling his shirt impatiently. He
paused his touch, getting rid of the shirt and taking the opportunity
to get rid of the rest of the clothes. Gasping, Marisa realized he
was completely naked now ... and was completely yours!
With a groan, she pulled her to him, feeling hot and rigid
extension of his body ... feeling, too, with a wave of excitement, the
incredible power of masculinity against him. Reacting instinctively,
Marisa lifted her hips, and Athan said sliding a muscular thigh
between his. He touched her with his mouth now, and she stroked
her back, reveling in the knowledge that could clearly excite you,
while trailed her fingers along his spine.
Urgently filled. I wish the dominated, and he wanted ...
needed ... to satisfy you. He looked for it, shifting until he found
what he wanted. Arched over her, his hands framing her
shoulders, while female hips rose in his direction. For an infinite
moment, he studied her face, mesmerized by what was arousing
her.
Theos, but Marisa was so, so beautiful! The blond hair was
spread on the pillow, his face lit with an extraordinary beauty. The
small body was excited and longing for her.
Athan needed to be satiated, now ... needed to merge with
it, become one with Marisa.
He heard her whisper his name, urgently. He felt the loving
pressuring her back, as if to merge with it.
With a precise movement, he was there, filling it completely,
feeling it close around her, listening to her scream, hearing his own
voice calm her.
Then the body of Athan began to move in a primitive
rhythm, possessing the same as he had. And Marisa also moved,
responding to the attacks with the same avidity. He was taking,
that stormy journey to higher and higher peaks, both going crazy in
the process.
Her pupils were dilated so that seemed to flood her eyes as
sensations flooded her body sensations like ... Marisa never
experienced before. A wild ride, that was taking an increasingly
high place ...
Time stood still ... losing its meaning. There was only one
moment, that amazing feeling making her melt, to merge with it.
She hugged him tightly, arching the neck back, pushing the hips,
so that took him deeper inside. The pleasure and joy were so
intense that when the storm burst in your inside Marisa seemed to
be consumed by it, as his body convulsed.
Do Not!She would not think about it. Was not going to spoil
the last precious moments with Athan, wondering what was
coming.
Resolute, just the margarita and left the pool. Athan would
leave the computer room and go back to the cabin. Marisa wanted
to be there, waiting for him. Wishing him, as he always wanted.
Passion mid morning was so pleasant ...
Athan stroked the silky hair, holding the slender body of
Marisa against his. They were sleepy after the act of love. The
swivel ceiling fan was the only noise. Soon they arise, would take
a shower and be dressed for lunch. Not that lunch was formal. All
wore bathing suits, wearing only a sarong or a T-shirt on top.
Lunch was light ... salads and fruit served a huge buffet on
the outdoor lounge, shaded tables by large umbrellas. The
constant breeze refreshed the heat, and the movement of the pool
water only increased that relaxed and lazy atmosphere.
But then the whole resort exuded this atmosphere.
Relaxation was inevitable.
Except now Athan was not feeling a bit relaxed. And an
unpleasant subject.
There were only two days of vacation, and then they would
return to London.
He felt his muscles stiffen for a moment. And in London,
would have to confront Marisa ... tell him why he had taken her to
the island, and what it would mean to her. And to his brother. That
it would preclude any relationship between her and Ian.
But even as he remembered himself of why had taken her
there, she could feel his mind rebelling. Perhaps there was no
need to tell you the truth. After all, after spending two weeks with
another man, Marisa could not be thinking about going back to Ian,
could I?
So maybe I do not need to confront it.
One thing was certain: he did not want to confront it. From
the beginning, learned that it would be difficult and unpleasant. But
now, after all that they had lived together, would be much more
than just "nasty" ...
I can not do that.
How could make love to her and then accuse her of
destroying a marriage?
I must have been mad to have thought of a scheme like this!
Crazy for thinking that could hold her in my arms so,
however be planning denounce it.
Athan looked at the fan, whose movement echoed his
thoughts, going round and round in your head. He knew what he
planned to do, and that was getting closer. But he also knew that
his plan now seemed impossible to perform.
Chapter 4
Marisa was sitting in the taxi going from Heathrow airport to
central London. Far from the warm Caribbean heat. The cold and
dreary landscape echoing the sentiment inside. Beside him, Athan
looked at the screen of your notebook and frowned, closed
expression. Was a few inches from her ... however, far, far away.
She knew what was coming. Exactly what had feared would
happen. He would take her back to his apartment, and then, in
some subtle way, would say still not seeing it.
A lump formed in her stomach, and her heart squeezed.
Marisa tried to block the thoughts, looking out the window, not
think, not feel.
But had been thought, in the same way. Of course Athan
acted passionately with her during the holidays! Of course she had
been the focus of his attention, and he had wanted too. But it had
not gone on vacation. Athan seen her, wanted her ... had to. Not in
an exploratory manner - she could never accuse him of that - but
the interest was temporary. They had spent a wonderful time
together ... but now over.
Time to move on.
The knot in his stomach increased. That was the problem ...
he wanted to move on. She ... wanted to remain in the life of
Athan.
I do not want to lose him. I do not want it to end!
But their wishes not tell.
That's what had to face. What worried face.
As the taxi pulled up in front of your building, Marisa went
down, shivering in the cold air without sun, acid with the smell of
the city. Athan was paying the driver, picking up their bags.
Politely, led her in and the elevators. She shivered again.
- It's so cold, after the Caribbean - she said, trying a light
conversation.
Athan just smiled, but said nothing. Not even looked.
He was signing up for his speech, she knew. How many
times he had done before? How many women had taken to
heaven, and then returned to Earth, taking leave of them and
leaving? Sadness flooded.
Marisa prayed that he would not try to give you any parting
gift. He prayed not to cry. Hoped find strength, courage to simply
smile in agreement and thank you for the fabulous time they had
spent together.
They parted as friends.
Not that she was seeing him again. With the reform of Athan
apartment being ready now, he would not need to hire more one
- You will not see him - repeated Athan. - Ian will work in
Athens, from now. I downloaded it to my office there.
It will finalize the transfer as they were in St Cecile ... was
the obvious thing to do, noticed. Take Ian London, keep it in
Athens under their supervision.
He watched Marisa was receiving the news, his own face
still a mask. Athan needed the mask to not fall apart. To achieve
its goal.
He had to keep his muscles tense, as if steel armor was
around, immobilizing him.
Because otherwise ... if relax ... he would pull for each other
and to involve the arms ...
- You get transferred? - Marisa asked, eyebrows together in
a confused expression. - But Ian does not work for you ...
This was an irrelevant thing to say, but the words escaped
his lips, the same way. He was so shocked I did not know what to
say, what to think.
He knew about Ian?
Marisa heard him give a sarcastic laugh, which stopped
abruptly.
- Of course it works for me.
- Do Not! He is marketing director of a company ...
- From one of my subsidiaries.
She opened her mouth, then closed it.
Needed to understand that. His mind was spinning.
- But why do you care about Ian and me? What it interests
you, even if it works indirectly for you? As it hurts?
The tone of the questions was charge, arousing more anger
in Athan.
Rage Ian for what he was doing with Eva. Anger to have
gotten himself into this mess to try to solve it. Anger that such a
solution was doing with Marisa, now.
I do not want to do this to her!
The thought burned in his brain. But there was no choice.
He had to say what needed to be said. He leaned forward, holding
her elbows tightly.
- Because Eva Randall - his voice was like steel - Eva
Randall is my sister!
He saw her pale.
- I did not know. - The voice of Marisa was a whisper, her
eyes were wide.
Athan gave another sarcastic laugh. Because the universe
was mocking him ... mocking the scene he had to do to finish
everything with her. Why end the relationship was all he could do
now.
- Why Ian tell him what it was none of your business? I knew
he had not told her from the moment I came to you ... when you
saw my name on the card I gave you. I risked and it paid off.
His voice suddenly changed, and when that happened,
Marisa felt a new emotion replace the shock that was rattling
whole.
- What left the field entirely free for me. For my purpose.
His dark eyes rested on it. Eyes that had once burned with
intense desire.
Eyes that seemed empty now. Desolate and devoid of any
emotion.
- I found you - he continued, his voice as empty as the eye.
Speaking the words that destroy everything in between. - I rented
the apartment to be your neighbor ... timed our first meeting. You
are under my supervision since I suspected that Eve's husband
was keeping a secret. A dirty secret. Since I met her, I could
decide what needed to be done to end the relationship between
you and Ian. - The Athan tone became ironic. - After all, as you
could be part of his life after being with me ...?
Weakness hit Marisa, making her dizzy.
From somewhere inside, she found words. Each of coming
out of it like knives being torn flesh wound.
- It was all a setup?
The blue eyes were large, skin, white as alabaster, making it
even more beautiful ...
Rage filled him again. Angry because she was so beautiful.
A beauty that he could never have ... barred to him forever.
- Yes - said Athan. - It was all a setup. - He paused ... a fatal
break. - Nothing more than that.
Nothing more than that ...
The words echoed in his head like a funeral bell. Killing
everything.
Nausea rose to Marisa's throat.
- Go away ... - Her voice trembled.
But Athan had more to say ... should be forced to speak the
rest.
- That's what you will do - spoke without emotion, because
emotion felt it was too dangerous. - You will loose any links you
have with Ian Randall. Will not have anything to do with it. Go out
of his life ... permanently. Give him the reasons you want ... but be
aware that if you do not separate it ... permanently ... then I will
give Ian a reason to cut the tie. - Athan made another fatal break. He'll know what happened between us.
She swallowed. Had to fight the wave of nausea that kept
rising to her throat.
- Do you understand? - Demanded it, hard. - Is that clear?
With a heavy sigh, and with the heart still heavier, she
raised her bags and market bags that had brought and opened the
door creaking. When he opened the front door, the smell of damp
invaded it. Marisa shook again, and put the bags down and taking
the bags to the kitchen. The wood stove was cold and has not
been lit since the day she left for London, months ago. She turned
on the electric light ... which just showed the dust on the kitchen
table and lit the dead flies on the windowsill.
Depression wrapped like a cold mantle. Numb, Marisa
performed the tasks that would make the cottage area: called the
fridge and put fresh food inside, lit the wood stove, removing dust
from surfaces, trying to keep the mind in mundane tasks, and
nothing else. Not the absolute void of the cottage, the empty his
heart. He thought of his mother. Suffered because she was not
there, his palpable absence. Suffered by Ian, whose life could not
do even a small part.
And suffered for something else ... something that did not
dare name, not to be consumed by the feeling.
He felt a lump in my throat, the dominating emotion, and sat
down in one of the kitchen chairs, lowering his head on folded
arms. Sobs shook her body. Marisa cried all his loneliness, all your
pain. And an exciting too. A stronger emotion that seemed to rend
it into millions of pieces. Questions, accusations ... ...
autoacusaes flooded his mind.
How could he do this to me? How could I fall into a trap like
that? Why it hurts so much? Why does it matter so much ...?
Anguish consumed. Why Athan just not confronted and told
her she could not have anything to do with Ian? Why not been
honest from the beginning?
Not at the end. Not after having seduced her with sweet
words, fake smiles ...
False kisses ...
And more, much more than kisses.
She lifted her head, looking at the kitchen which had once
been so familiar and which now seemed strange. He could see the
cabinets and outdated furniture, could feel the smell of damp and
mold.
Heat and sun, and the waves hitting the beach. The feel of
the sand under your feet and your heart full.
She felt her lungs to contract, as if they explode.
How could he do this to me?
How?
How Athan been able to wrap her in his arms, make love to
her, only as part of a calculated maneuver to get her out of the life
of his brother?
The tears dried on his face, making his face hardened.
Chapter 5
- Athan ... what's happening?
The voice of Eva, on the telephone line from London,
sounded anxious and worried.
- Ian does not explain me ... do not tell me. But you fight
about, is not it? I know a fight.
Athan deep breath and forced his voice calm out:
- I do not want you to worry ...
She interrupted, raising his voice:
- How can I not worry? I am worried sick! My husband
comes home and announces that resigned from the job! That will
not work for you. Athan, what you said to Ian? Why is he doing
this?
Athan shook hands around the phone. Ian had behaved like
a drama queen, being accused of adultery it was. But that was the
last thing that Eve would know. Athan gritted his teeth. And to
protect her, he had to protect the dirty secret of Ian Randall.
- Eva, was a mutual decision - he lied. - For some time, Ian
has left clear to me that wants to leave the company.
- But why? I was so glad you trust him enough to put it on
the board!
Athan grimaced. It was not because he trusted that Ian had
given him the job. Quite the contrary! It was because wanted to put
it where he could keep an eye on it. And now Ian wanted out of
control, leaving the job.
But it was essential that Eva did not know any of this, so he
lied:
Athan left the car where he had been sitting since his arrival,
an hour ago, and watched Marisa walk in his direction. Her
emotions were tightly controlled since he received the call from the
security agency ... the phone call had been praying ever receive.
But, predictably, Ian Randall had done exactly what Athan feared
he would.
Coldly, he had answered the phone, listening to all the
details offered. Time, route, location. It was all he had needed to
know. Now, however, needed to know more ...
Marisa was coming. She was brave, he had to admit. Or
maybe it was the presence of her lover who was giving you
confidence. Not that there was any sign of Ian or his car.
The gruff voice Athan cut the cold air:
- Where is he? - It was a direct demand, and he wanted an
answer.
She stopped abruptly. Athan studied her. She was very
different from the way he used to see her. He wore baggy pants,
with muddy boots and a voluminous cloak obscuring its way. His
hair was wet, slicked back from her face and held by a buckle. It
seemed out of alignment.
But the face ... the face was as beautiful as ever. The eyes,
glowing with anger, were bright, his mouth kissed by rain ...
- He's gone. - Marisa was as direct as he. He knew exactly
who Athan referred. He knew exactly why he was there. Anger
flooded it, because Athan could only have discovered where the
brother was had sent to follow him.
- His spies did not see coming back to London? - She asked
caustically.
The Athan's face stiffened.
- No, they did not see ... - Or at least he had not received a
report with this information. Athan asked them to keep a discreet
distance ... presumably had been too discreet. In any case, the
situation was clear. After all he said to Ian, the man had still gone
after lover ...
He approached Marisa.
She flinched, but stayed in place. Shock waves roamed her
body, but she needed to ignore them. Needed ignore more than
the shock of seeing Athan Teodarkis, tall, strong and beautiful,
outside of your home, the magnificent figure clashing precarious
environment. Athan Teodarkis did not belong rural and backward
area. But it was not such a fact that was consuming the self
Marisa.
Another type of emotion through her.
Athan! Athan here ... now! In front of you! So close ... his
presence shaking all your senses.
I thought it was never to see it!
But he was there, and she could feel his body responding
traitor ...
But I had to understand that he was there for only one
reason. Because Ian searching. Was there to accuse her.
But this time, Marisa consciousness was clear. The charges
it could not reach any target.
- You can go - she said. - He is not here.
The Athan's eyes narrowed eyes ... that one day had stared
longingly ... but who were now filled with anger.
- But he came here, anyway.
She lifted her chin.
- He's gone ... forever.
- You told him about us?
Marisa's lips curled in contempt.
- Of course not.
No, he thought Athan, of course you did not tell. Would not
want him to know how easily I seduce ... I took it from him.
Athan gave a satisfied smile. His anger was fading now.
Anger fueled by much more than the fury of his brother traitor.
Fueled by a much more powerful boost. The impulse that had
brought him there. Driven by a force that could no longer suppress
... did not want to suppress.
He motioned his head, indicating the cottage.
- I need to talk to you ... and not here.
- I have nothing to say. - The voice of Marisa was cold.
He looked at her. In the twilight, the Athan's expression was
melancholy.
- But I have something to tell you. - His face had changed. You seem to be freezing.
For a moment, she was moved. There was concern in the
voice of Athan ... even affection.
The tone was the same as he used to tell you one day ...
Brutal truth forced to repress the thought. Athan had lied
from the beginning ... lied with every kind word, with every
affectionate gesture. That was what she needed to remember.
Marisa shook under the rubber cover. He was right ... it was
freezing. Then walked to the door and opened it with the key
removed the hood pocket. He followed her inside. Immediately the
little cottage seemed even smaller. She did not want him there, did
not want him around.
Liar! Liar ... liar!
The words in your head accused her, betrayed her. Again,
had to resort to self-control with which had faced outside the
chalet. No matter where Athan was ... it meant nothing to her. As
she meant nothing to him.
to enter the life of Ian. Beat him to fill and comfort you certainly do
not have here.
He looked around the small, decadent cuisine.
- I can make concessions. Understanding why you think Ian
so tempting. - He went back to look at her. - You do not have to
live like this, Marisa. Let me get her out of it all. We're good
together. We can have it all again ... honestly, this time without
more secrets.
His eyes sparkled, his voice was deep, accent pronounced
sending vibrations through her body.
- I want you to go away. - The voice of Marisa was
controlled, not making clear the emotion that seemed about to
explode from within. - I do not want him here. And for your
information, I do not want you "take it all." This is my house. May
be poor, but it is mine, and it is where I live and where I will live
from now on. - She sighed. - This is the place where I belong.
Why was that place she belonged. He knew that now.Not to
the luxurious cocoon of Ian, kept secret from the world. And do not
... God help ... caught in the web of lies Athan Teodarkis.
- So I want you to go away - she repeated.
Before she collapsed, gave in ... give in to desperate desire
to shoot in his arms, pretending that Athan never deliberately
seduced, then denounced that. Pretend he had never lied ...
But he had, and nothing could change that.
Athan was silent now, and his face was like a mask.
Marisa had seen that look before, when he confronted them
in return St Cecile. When he had closed to her, locking the door
and throwing away the key.
- I understand - he said in a tight voice. - You were very
clear. So, yes, I'll be gone.
However, for a moment ... a moment that seemed like an
eternity ... he kept property. Marisa also did not move, standing
behind the table that separated them ... after all that separated
Athan and always would separate.
Always.
- I wish you all the best, Marisa. It would be ... meanness of
me care less - he murmured, his voice devoid of any emotion.
Then he turned and left the kitchen.
She could not move. He heard steps following the narrow
corridor after the door creaking when opening and closing. Marisa
continued to wait. Only the crackling of burning wood was audible.
Then another sound penetrated his consciousness. The engine of
a car. Getting high and getting lower.
To vanish.
He was gone.
Chapter 6
Marisa carefully dug with the spade. The garden that his
mother had loved so much had grown too, and she was trying to
take the weeds of all sites. Spring finally arrived, and while he was
kneeling, she could feel the sun on your back. It seemed a
blessing.
She was in need of blessings. Struggling to count them. To
keep them in the forefront of your mind. To bury the memories of
Athan Teodarkis.
Was humming at the moment ... a song he had heard on the
radio. Much listened to the radio lately. It was a company. The
cottage was so isolated that she could turn on the radio there in
the garden, knowing that it will not bother anyone.
A robin was walking behind the bed, tilting her head to the
side and watching her, hopefully. A small worm went underground,
and Maria left her buried. As much as she liked robin, did not want
to feed it with the worm, which was just trying to lead a quiet life.
Like her.
A quiet life. Was all he wanted right now. A life that, as the
worm could be passed buried safely. Sheltered and out of the way.
Where she belonged.
It had been weeks since Athan had come and gone. Weeks
and weeks. How, precisely, Marisa not told. The days emendavam
each other, marked only by the spring, with different flowers
blooming every day.
It was all she wanted now.
Marisa had isolated almost completely. A delivery service
had arranged with a supermarket in a nearby town, and suited him
not to go there in person. The weekly delivery was good enough.
Sometimes the tractor farm passed the cottage, but when she
heard him coming made sure not visible. Do not want to see
anyone
It was like hibernating. Closing. Trying not to think. Trying
not to feel. Trying to keep busy in the garden While working, he
could feel the presence of his mother, approving what she was
doing. Happy that her daughter was back there, safe in the shelter
she found herself ... her refuge from a world that had rejected, a
man who wanted her.
Marisa grimaced. Athan had wanted.
That was the bitter irony of history. After all I had done to
him, he wanted her.
He really thought I ignore everything he did, acting as if it
never happened?
But he thought so ... obviously. They could continue in a
relationship, he could take her to his bed ...
Do Not!She could not think about it ... these were
dangerous thoughts, which brought even more dangerous
memories. Lethal.
Marisa dug deeper, struggling with a root of a dandelion to
extract the last fragment. That was not the kind of fragment you
could leave the ground ... a new weed spring up even the smallest
part, for air and sun, trying to grow and flourish.
Thoughts on Athan were well and memories too. She
needed to extract the last fragments of them, so they do not try to
bloom again.
Marisa paused in his work, looking up at the hill behind the
fence that led to the marshes. Go out for a walk later. To get rid of
thoughts and memories trying to come to life on its head.
Questions to which I would like to have an answer
penetrated his mind, but Marisa knew that would not have.
Questions had never done, but now wished he had done.
Questions about his mother.
How long did it take you to forget my father? Take it out of
your head and your heart?
And the question that was the scariest of all:
Did you ever forgot it?
That's what Marisa feared most. The wound was too deep,
the scar, very brutal.
Because, after all he was doing to not think about it,
isolating themselves in that world, so familiar and so different from
the places that had been with Athan, was not working.
How long I will take to forget it?
That was the question that tormented her. Did not think
about not thinking about him. Did not need to make continuous
effort to divert your mind to other things. Immerse yourself in that
It was Ian.
Slowly she took the envelope to the kitchen and opened it.
My dear Marisa ... There's something I just have to tell you
...
The knot is tightened her stomach, but she forced herself to
continue reading. When he reached the end, blinked, reflecting.
Should do what Ian was asking?
Marisa took the whole day and a sleepless night to find the
answer, but in the morning pulled out his phone and sent a text
message. It was the first time the contact one since sent him away
... more than a month ago. He answered his message almost
instantly, telling him he had made the arrangements, and that all
she had to do was reach the railway station of Plymouth. He would
find in Paddington that afternoon.
Nervousness filled. Should actually go ahead with it? She
looked around. The little cottage looked much better now than
when she returned there. She cleaned every corner of the place,
and now he was painting the rooms with fresh paint. Outside, the
garden reflected the spring in all its glory ... many flowers had
bloomed, birds emit their sweet singing, announcing the arrival of
summer of promise.
She could leave this tranquil haven where finally beginning
to find peace after all the torment by which passed? Could really
go back to London, do what Ian wanted?
Become a part of his life again ...
Reluctance warred with desire.
But he was so sure of that now was the right time. We finally
had the courage to do what he knew, with every fiber of his being,
he had to do. Tell the truth about them.
He told her that when they were sitting in a pub near to
Paddington tube station, where he had taken her after finding her
at the railway station.
- I need to do this, Marisa. Need to tell Eve. And you have to
be there when it happens, so that she believe how much you mean
to me.
Anxiety and doubt filled his eyes.
- Ian, I'm not sure ...
- Well, I'm sure - he said. He took her hand, held it tenderly.
- I will not live this lie more. I tried ... God knows I tried. I tried while
you were here in London, and hated keep it secret. And I tried to
when you returned to Devon and hid there. But I still hate ... and
will continue hating, until we shall reveal the truth.
He took a deep breath.
- Things are different now. Not just that much missed you
since you've been away, but a lot has changed in my life. You
know that I resigned from Eva's brother firm? Well, that was great.
I have a new job and I'm very happy with it.
His expression changed, and Marisa could feel the
enthusiasm of Ian.
- I was admitted as a marketing director in a sustainable
trade company, which wants to deal with supermarkets. I'm really
motivated ... is a great cause, and I feel I can use my talents to
accomplish something important. - He grimaced. - This also frees
me from any sense of obligation and gratitude in relation to Eva's
brother these circumstances -. He looked significantly - this is
essential.
Ian shook his hand again.
- Finally, I am in position to count on you. And that's what I
want to do tonight. We have to do this, Marisa. You and I ... tell the
world about us. - Ian stood up, pulling her with him, smiling at him.
- Let's do it.
Still filled with anxiety, Marisa went with him.
Absently, Athan toyed with the glass of wine on the table in
one of the private dining rooms of the hotel. Eve was talking to the
maitre, telling him that changed his mind about the desserts we
wanted.
Athan could not care less what she had chosen for that
night. He had no appetite at all. Certainly not for that farce of
"family celebration" that Eva organized at your favorite hotel in
Park Lane.
- It was Ian idea - she talked cheerfully. - He wants to tell
you about the new job. Is so excited ... and I also. It is as if Ian had
taken a huge weight off your shoulders.
Looking for expensive champagne on ice, silver cutlery and
the provision of hothouse flowers, and knowing how much it cost a
private dinner in a place like that, thankfully, thought Athan, Ian
had their own means ... and that wife was supported by Teodarkis
safes. The new salary Ian was not nearly as generous as was the
previous one.
It was better this way, he supposed. Not only Eva looked
happier as well as a demanding new job, even if poorly paid, keep
his brother out of time to invest in extramarital affairs. The
physiognomy of Athan hardened. At least, there had been no sign
of trying to contact Ian Marisa again ... not he trying to find a
replacement for her. Hopefully, the wedding of her sister could
stabilize again ... at least for now.
He looked at the window and the rain falling outside. Had
not gone to England since Marisa had sent away the decaying
cottage. Plunged at work, in conference ... anything to get away
from the memories. Have come to London now, so this dinner that
his sister had organized, had not been in their plans, but Eva
insisted so much that he just gave in.
I was trying to be happy for her. After all, was to ensure her
happiness he had got in the mess that was now with Marisa ... so
of course I had to be happy for her sister. If Eve's happiness would
last or not it was a different story.
He sighed.Well, at least it had reached its original purpose.
Would have to settle for that. Now, would have to go through that
dinner, say what was appropriate in the circumstances,
congratulating Ian the new work ...
- Athan? - Eva had just spoken with the maitre d '. - I go to
the toilet touch up my makeup. Ian should be here any moment.
She left and Athan gestured his head to dismiss the maitre.
He wanted to be alone for a moment. Prepare for the difficult
situation. Could support an entire night with Ian, knowing what he
knew about the infidelity that he had planned, with both pretending
in front of Eva?
The dining room doors opened, and Athan looked in that
direction.
And froze.
Ian had just entered.
In its wake, walking with obvious trepidation, was Marisa.
The Athan reaction was instantaneous.
- How dare you bring her here? - He shouted to his brother.
Marisa felt the air freezing in your lungs. How could this be
happening? A dizziness made her hold automatically in Ian's arm
for support. Oh, God, if I did the idea that Athan would be there ...
Ian had stiffened.
- Where's Eve? - Demanded it.
Athan ignored the question. His expression was a mask of
fury.
- Do you have a second to take this woman here before ...
- Before what? - A female voice was near the door.
Athan turned his head. His sister was there, his eyes fixed
on complete stranger supported on the arm of her husband.
- Ian? - She said in a question of tone, the confused face.
Marisa swallowed. Then, finally, it was the wife of Ian. She
tried to control her emotions. Emotions were erratic since he had
read the letter from Ian that morning. But when his desperation felt
in the presence of Athan there cambaleara.
Oh, God, could not do that! Needed to get out of there ...
now. Nervous, started for the door, and Eve automatically stepped
to the side. Marisa gave him an agonized look.
- I'm sorry. I ... can not do that! I ...
Suddenly, his arm was held. A deep, gruff voice spoke ...
but not for her:
- I'll tell you one thing you will not like, but it has to be said. I
invited Marisa to come here tonight for a specific reason. To tell
you about it.
Athan could no longer be silent. Held the wrist of her sister,
pretending to speak in Greek. I had to tell her ... instead of leaving
her husband's bastard do it.
- Do Not!
Marisa The interjection silenced him before he had begun.
- Ian will tell her - said Marisa, looking at the man beside
her. - Go for it! Tell her. Tell him.
There was something wrong with her voice, Athan recorded.
She had never spoken like this before. Not even when expelled
from the chalet. The voice was like ice.
Ian also seemed perplexed by Marisa tone. Then he looked
at his wife.
- There is no easy way to say this, so I'll be direct. Marisa ...
- he began, and took her hand.
She curled her fingers around Ian, taking a step forward,
aligning with it. A couple. Together.
With pure contempt in his voice, Athan said:
- Marisa is am ..
- ... Is my sister.
The words fell like stones from a great height, crushing the
head of Athan.
Marisa stared at him, completely expressionless face.
- I am the sister of Ian - she said.
Chapter 7
The world had stopped moving? Should have stopped,
thought Athan, with what still worked in his brain, because
everything else seemed to have stopped. Even his breath. So
explosively, it has been restored.
- Sister him? - Shock reverberated in his voice.
Marisa could have laughed to see the shock on Athan's face
... but he was not in the mood to laugh.
Anger involved, wanting to explode from within. But she had
to hold it. Because if anger escape ...
- Sister Ian? - The voice was Eve, and contained utter
bewilderment. - But Ian has no sister.
The Marisa's eyes went to Ian knowing that this was the
moment they had feared, but now had to face. He sighed.
- I did not know ... did not know about Marisa until recently. He paused.
- Listen, maybe we should sit down. This is ... it's
complicated, and will be ... difficult.
sitting at the table, telling about her relationship with Ian, rose to
the surface. She stopped in front of him. As if of their own accord,
his hand rose. Slapping him.
- This is for what you thought I was!
Then, a slight movement, passed him and entered the
elevator, which was opening the door, pressing the "close" button
urgently.
But Athan did not try to follow her ... made no move. Just
watched as the doors closed and the elevator rose to the floors of
the rooms. Marisa heart was pumping. In the mind's eye, she could
see a bruise forming on his face. Livid and ugly.
Marisa was walking. Walked a lot lately. Miles and miles.
Above the marshes. However, as much as walked, I could not get
rid of that was consuming.
Destroying it.
Destructive thoughts would not stop spinning in his head.
How could he have not realized what Athan thought of him?
How could not have gone through his foolish head that he would
come to the conclusion that arrived?
Thinking back, it was obvious that this was what Athan had
taken all the time.
She will transfer every sentence of their conversation ...
trying to understand how not realized what he thought about his
relationship with Ian.
I assumed that he had discovered that I was his sister.
Never dreamed Athan thought something so nasty about me ...
something so vile.
But that was exactly what he had done.
From the beginning.
She wanted to scream and report it to the world. But there
was no one to whom he could count. All he could do was swallow
it and get out of the way of all. Isolate in Devon again ... forever
this time.
As it should have done the first time.
I never should have let Ian persuade me to go to London
and tell Eve about me. Because of what Athan did ... because I
can not tell Ian what he did ... I can not have anything to do with
him and Eve, anyway. I can not even bear to look at Athan again!
How do I want to have something to do with a man? A man
hate with every fiber of my being.
Because, of course, she hated him. What else could feel by
Athan Teodarkis now? Only hate.
Consuming hatred.
Destructive.
She kept walking. The slope became steeper, and now
Marisa was at the top, looking through the buried ruins of the
Athan let go his arm, but he did not let go. She would not flatter
him freeing himself. Bear this grip, which would help her remember
how she hated him.
He turned to look at her. Marisa closed the face. Wanted to
close his eyes, but again did not show him who was affected by it.
And was not affected in any way ... Never was. Never again.
Athan said abruptly:
- That's what I do not understand. You did not notice that I
thought Ian had installed as his mistress. Certainly must have
known, right? - Questioned him.- Why else would I do what I did to
you ... would you say? Just because you was the sister of Ian?
Why you and Ian hid the kinship everyone?
Marisa's eyes widened.
- How can you ask that? You know Eva is close to Ian's
mother ... the godmother of her. As Sheila became a second
mother to her. So we were so reluctant to tell Eve. Because the
truth divide the loyalties of Eve. How could she have anything to
do with her husband's sister, when this sister was living proof of
how Sheila Randall had been hurt and betrayed by her husband?
She swallowed.
- After I fled from London, telling Ian that was because I
could no longer hiding in the shadows, and he got a new job,
without his protection, became determined not to continue hiding
the wife such an important part of his life. It was a fresh start for
Ian, and, as hard as it was, he did not want to store more Eva
secrets. Even the secret of my existence.
Athan was silent for a moment. And when he spoke, his
voice was heavy as lead.
- I thought Ian was like his father. Unable loyalty. I always
thought that ... I feared it. Never approved the Ian's marriage to
Eva. I considered it superficial. Unworthy of my sister. And I
thought that Eve was ordered to follow suit in law, whose life
became a torment for the unfaithful husband.
He paused, looking briefly to Marisa, then looking away,
because face it hurt too much.
- When I started off, I sent watching. I found out about its
existence ... that you were living in an apartment paid for Ian.
There was no doubt about it. I've seen pictures of you two in a
restaurant. Intimate photos that showed the loving expressions on
their faces. And one of the pictures showed Ian giving her a
diamond necklace. - He paused, then said explosively: - What the
hell should I think? My brother was giving a diamond necklace to
another woman!
Marisa stiffened.
- The necklace was Ian's grandmother. The mother of our
father. He wanted to give me all the things that our father denied
The voice was low Athan. Conflict filled him. Filled his head.
Was she right? He should never have gone there? Should never
have followed the imperative urge to find it ... talk to her? Because
I had to talk to her. Could not leave things as they were, with the
blame punishing your mind. His soul.
Punishing himself for he thought about it. Punishing yourself
for what you did. Punishing yourself for having it judged completely
wrong way ...
- What did I do with you as a brand hot iron in me, forever he said.
Marisa shrugged.
- Does not matter.I understand why you did it. It was a ...
misunderstanding. And the wedding Ian and Eva is stronger than
ever, so some good came of it. He finally got a job that not only
feels he can make a real contribution to the world, but also
sustains without he need depend on you. In addition, of course,
Ian finally gained their trust ... convincing him that he is not corrupt
as our father. So all that was good, was not it?
She spoke casually, as if nothing else mattered.
- As for you and me ... - A lump formed in Marisa's throat,
almost impossible to speak. But she had to force the words. - As
for you and me - repeated - what does it matter? What happened
was ... a mistake. Unfortunate, but understandable. It can not be
repaired, but ... can be ignored.
Marisa heard him gasp behind him. Then carefully Athan
said:
- No ... it can not. This can not be ignored. You must be
faced. I have to face.
Large hands touched her shoulders again. She could not
feel them, but a kind of electrical charge through his body as he
turned, so that she faced him.
The Athan's face was grim. The sadness in his eyes was
penetrating.
- I've been unfair to you and regret it for the rest of my life ...
even if it was intentional, injustice remains. But if you asked me to
regret what happened to me, so ... I will not. I can not.I came here
after, wanting only one thing. Thinking that because you were no
longer a danger to my sister, I could take you what he wanted
desperately. Having her back to me - He looked at her, and behind
the sadness in his eyes there was something burning, threatening.
Threatening despise eternity that formed the marshes, the
millennium that separated the people who had once lived there, in
the shadow of the marshes. Threatening to mock the effect of time
on human lives.
Something stronger than time. That would last more than all
things.
have it back ... recover that time. Oh, God, Marisa, have her in my
arms again ... just for me, this time. For no other reason between
us. - Emotion emanated from him. - And now ... finally ... after all
this time ... there is nothing to separate us, to confuse us or blind
us. Now ... my most beloved girl ... there is only this ...
He kissed her.Affectionately. With love.
So, put an arm around her shoulders and began to lead her
along the way again. Tile.
Peace to fulfill. Peace Marisa did not feel so long. A peace
that now knew, would last forever.
- As we were fools - she murmured dreamily, leaning her
head against his shoulder.
Athan laughed.
- I more than you.
She shook her head.
- No, I more than you.
- You must grant me the privilege of being right, this time. He kissed her hair.
- Okay.
Athan smiled at her, making her heart race.
- An argumentative woman? - He joked.- Well, there's only
one way to solve this. - You are right, my dear, every time from
now. This will make her happy?
Marisa shook her head.
- Only one thing let me happy.
- Oh?- His smile deepened. - And what would it be?
- You Only you.. Forever. - Love shone in her eyes.
- Made - agreed Athan. - And I must seal the deal as well?
The kiss them was long, deep and stronger than real time.
The time was still around them and always would be.
Epilogue
- Ready?
The Athan's tone was a mixture of encouragement and
support. His arm, which Marisa was clinging, was steady as a rock.
A rock in which it knew would always support ... throughout his life.
Even that night.
- Okay, let's do this - she said.
He walked forward, opening the door to the room below.
Marisa was aware of a light shooting in his heart, but that was
expected. She came in, Athan at his side. Together, they stopped
in the doorway.
- Marisa! - The voice of Ian was warm, as he approached.
Smiling, kissed her cheek.
The smile encompassed Athan, too, and you Athan smiled
back. His respect for his brother in law had increased dramatically,
now that it was clear that Ian did not share the infidel nature of
Martin Randall. Ian had proved loyal and constant, working hard to
make his new job a success, and making Eve the happiest wife in
the world.
Almost happier, amended it, and the look he gave to Marisa
was full of love. He loved her so much! She was the center of his
universe ... your half ...
- Marisa?
Ian's voice interrupted the reverie of Athan.
- This is a moment for which waited too. Accepts my hand?
Still feeling a little tense, Marisa placed her free hand on
Ian, who closed his fingers around her. The three walked to the
figure standing by the fireplace in the room back of Ian's family
home. Although his vision was focused on the figure standing
there, Marisa was aware of Eve, sitting in the armchair by the fire,
smiling at him encouragingly.
So Ian was talking again. Not with Marisa, this time, but with
the older woman:
- This is Marisa - he said, his voice calm, steady gaze. - My
sister.
For a moment, time seemed to stop. Then, with a small
sound in her throat, Sheila Randall broke the tension. She reached
for Marisa.
- My dear - she murmured, the voice thick with emotion.
While Marisa took outstretched hands, dropping support
both Athan as his brother, felt the same emotional response inside.
In Sheila Randall's face there was nothing but kindness.
She shook hands with Marisa.
- I sincerely believe that his poor mother suffered as much
as I, and for that reason I can not blame her or accuse her. I can
only feel happy because Ian found you. I'm very glad you're part of
our family. - Her gaze went to Athan. - I can not think of a happier
ending.
Marisa collected hands and took the Athan, feeling heat flow
and force them.
- Me neither - she agreed.
And love, like a giant wave flooded it.
With eyes only for her, his beloved, Athan raised his hands
to his mouth Marisa, kissing them, then holding against his heart.
- Me neither - he murmured.
For an infinite moment, they looked at each other. Then a
soft pop made them look around.
- Champagne Time - Ian announced.
Eva was there in an instant, lifting
bowls to be filled with bubbling liquid. When all the bowls
were distributed, Ian raised his in a toast.