Jessica 227 - Table Infidel - Julia James

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.

So had begun! Just as he had feared from the beginning.

From the moment his sister Eva told her with whom he was in love
...
He felt the surge of anger hit him and forced himself to
release the tension that stiffened his shoulders. He leaned back
against the leather chair, where he sat behind the desk of your
company office, the International Teodarkis, whose headquarters
was based in London and where he had a magnificent view of the
city.
Went back to school photos. Although taken by a cell
phone camera, and a reasonable distance, the evidence was
indisputable. They showed Ian Randall, her beautiful big boy face,
looking at the woman in front of him with adoration.
And Athan could understand why.
She was blond, like Ian. The light hair cascaded like a
waterfall of each cheek. Perfect features: full lips, delicate nose
and bright blue eyes, all coming together to make it a very
beautiful woman. No wonder she captivated the fool sitting across
the table.
That was predictable. From the beginning, Athan feared
that Ian Randall was weak, consumer and womanizer.
Just like his father.
Martin Randall had been notorious for succumbing to
temptation every female who crossed his path. Gave himself to
his desire for her, until the next arose. Then gave her a gift and
went behind the new.
Again and again.
Disgust and contempt filled Athan. If Martin's son would be
like so ...
So I should have prevented Eva to marry him! No matter
what, I should have stopped it!
But he had not stopped ... had given the child the benefit of
the doubt, even going against every instinct. And now established
that had been right all the time. Ian was no better than his father.
Womanizer. Libertine.
Adulterer.
Angry, Athan rose, taking the envelope containing the
bomb capable of destroying Ian's wedding. Still exist salvation?
As adultery it progressed? Indeed, his inamorata had been
installed in a luxurious apartment by Ian and, judging by the
designer costume and hair newly tidy - not to mention the diamond
necklace she won - she was clearly benefiting from his generosity.
But already paid the bill for such generosity? wondered Athan.
The expression on Ian's face, captured by the camera
phone was ... passionate. It was the expression of a promiscuous
libertine, but that of a man captured by the network of a woman

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

had arranged a good job in Teodarkis company to Ian. In part, to

meet Eva, but mainly to make sure he could keep an eye on his
brother.
For two years, however, Ian had been on the line, giving
the impression of being a devoted husband. Now it seemed that
the true nature was rising to the surface. Ian was in a relationship
in secret, with a pretty blonde he put in a luxurious apartment, and
who gave diamonds. The next move would be to get him to visit
her in her love nest ... Adultery, long feared time was beginning in
earnest.
Impatiently, Athan swiveled in his leather chair. He did not
want his beloved sister passed by the best friend of her mother
passed during the marriage, nourishing the foolish hope that the
husband she loved would like. He would not see it happen! Ian
had to stop. But how?
Ah, could confront the man with the evidence against him,
but Ian obviously deny ... after all, no adultery had been committed
yet, and he undoubtedly find some explanation for the existence of
blonde. And if Athan take photos for Eva, leave the heart of his
sister with her husband's betrayal of proof. Did not want to do this
to her ... if I could not help it.
Maybe this had to happen ... but not yet.
Moreover, it should not take a chance on Ian - a unique
chance - not to follow his father's path? If he could intercept the
case of his brother-maybe, just maybe, Ian Randall is proved to be
a worthy husband for Eve.
I can give you a chance ... and if it fails a second time, then
I will not have mercy.
The question was: how to give a chance to Ian and prevent
him from succumbing to a case with the delectable blonde?
Athan analyzed the situation again. Okay, so Ian wanted to
start an affair with the blonde ... and the blonde, the photographic
evidence also seemed delighted for him. Regardless of what was
captivating - the wealth and generosity of Ian, or the good looks
and seductive charm of the man - she was clearly very responsive
to it. Surely Ian would soon get her to bed.
Unless ...
An idea began to occur to him.
To commit adultery had to be two people ... the adulterer
and the willing lover.
But what if the willing lover was no longer so willing? And if
Ian Randall was not the only beautiful and rich admirer in her
orbit? And if a rival arrived at the scene?
The Athan muscles relaxed for the first time since he
opened the envelope and saw the photos.

Your idea might work ?, wondered. The answer came loud

and clear.
Yes! Because it simply replaces Ian by someone else. For
someone rich and famous by the success that makes beautiful
women ...
For a moment he hesitated. Could really do this? And if
the girl was truly in love with Ian Randall ...? The expression on
her face was undoubtedly devoted.
Athan repressed thought.
Well, if she is in love, I'll do you a favor to offer a rival to
Ian. That lasting happiness she could find love with a married
man?
He smiled. If your plan worked, then Eve would not be the
only woman spared unnecessary suffering.
His eyes turned to photography in front. She was very,
very beautiful ...
He could really do that?
Could seduce a woman ... having an affair with her ... just
to separate it from the attentions of a married man? This would
not be so cruel?
Athan reflected, looking for justification for its actions.
I do not want her to be devastated by such a case. I do not
mean to hurt her. Just want to get her away from Ian, whom she
can not have a case.
The logic was irrefutable, though his face was troubled.
Sitting there at your desk and plan ways to try to save the marriage
of his sister was easy. But as would be when he finally put his
strategy into action?
Again, Athan studied the lovely oval face, big blue eyes, the
perfect curve of the mouth ...
As before, his senses were heightened by the beauty of
women.
RESOLUTION filled. Oh, yes, I could do that.
For a long time, Athan remained looking at the picture on
his desk. The beautiful blonde looked naively into the camera,
unaware of his presence. Then another image formed in his mind.
A brunette with deep brown eyes ... eyes that were full of love for
her husband, whose attention had been stolen by the blonde in the
photo.
I will protect my sister at any cost.
His decision was made. Now, just had to do it.
Athan closed the envelope. Opening a locked drawer, took
the incriminating folder, making sure to lock it again. Then
reached your phone. Needed to call an interior designer. Your
apartment in London was very comfortable, very luxurious and the
decor was perfect. But at the time, knew it was time to redecorate

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.

Athan recognized the message and hung up, as long as the

latter. On the ground, opened the door of his apartment. Just then
the elevator doors opened.
The desired lover Ian Randall left.
Athan felt his heart race. Personally, it was even more
lovely than the photos. Slender, graceful, luminous light skin,
beautiful eyes, hair like silk ... a vision of breathtaking.
No wonder that Ian can not resist it!
No man could.
And I do not need to resist. In fact, not resist it is exactly
my goal ...
He could feel the male reaction traversing it. Despite his
decision until that moment, had doubts whether it would actually
be able to run your action plan.
But now, seeing it in the flesh, felt relief flood it. Yes, I
could do that ... there was no reason for not doing so, and every
reason to do so.
More than reason.
No ... that was something that needed to lock now. Had a
task at hand, an essential task, and it was there that should focus
on. And not their own desires. Your wishes, whatever they were,
should serve its purpose. He could not forget that.
He went to the elevator, the firm and decisive steps. She
stopped there in front of the doors, which were now closed.
Looked momentarily mesmerized, and Athan could have sworn
that her eyes had increased as she watched him approach.
She was reacting to it ... as Athan expected. Without
vanity, that was the reaction he usually had on women. Oh, was
not blonde, as Ian Randall, with blue eyes and a ready smile, but
knew his height, his black hair and his strong features caused an
impact on women, and the kind of reaction he was getting now.
Just as wanted ...
Okay, time to make the first move.
- Can you hold the elevator for me?
His voice traveled the short distance to where she was still
standing, apparently immobilized. As he spoke, she looked out of
the trance, turning partly to push the elevator button. Athan
continued closing the distance between them, and when the
elevator doors opened, he smiled at her.
- Thank you - he muttered, his eyes running through it
quickly.
She looked at him, her lips parted, as if a little breathless.
A sweet fragrance emanated from the girl, as exciting as it was ...
Athan entered the elevator, shaking the ground button. A
moment later, the doors closed, and while the elevator descended,
he experienced a wave of sadness.

Sadness to be going in the opposite direction from her.

Or sadness was due to something different? The thought
occurred to him as he walked out of the elevator and walked
across the hall to his car waiting at the curb.
Why Marisa had to be involved with Ian Randall ...?
This question, as well as the image of women lovely
standing there, hung in his mind like an intruder or a little welcome.
With a nod, he greeted his driver, who held him by the
passenger door open, and settled in the leather seat, putting the
notebook on your side. Such thoughts were irrelevant. The girl
had to be removed from Ian's orbit, and the threat it posed to his
sister had to be settled. As soon as possible.
Athan opened the notebook and resumed his work. It was
a busy man ... very busy. The international firm that inherited from
his father, which was one of the largest and richest merchant
dynasties of Greece, allowed little time for recreation and
relaxation. Especially in the current economic climate.
But he would have to find time to accomplish his mission to
save the marriage of his sister ... at least for the moment.
For a moment, doubt returned to penetrate your mind. It
was one thing to plan a strategy in cold blood, when looking at a
photograph. Another was run it.
Impatiently, banished the doubts. This had to be done.
Marisa Milburne not suffer damage because he would seduce her.
She had a pleasant interlude in life, as luxurious as one that Ian
was offering, and in the end would come no more hurt than if he
continued a relationship with a married man.
I will be doing her a favor and away from Ian ... and in a
way that she can enjoy ...
And now that he had seen her in person, proving that she
was as lovely as the photo told him, Athan knew also enjoy ...
Again, the beautiful woman standing image before the
elevator doors you came to mind. For a moment, he held the
picture in the mind's eye, tasting her. So when the words of the
document that had carried the notebook into the screen, repressed
it and went back to work.
Marisa entered his apartment, his dazed mind. It had taken
just moments ... the elevator doors opened, she leaving, and there
he had been, in his view. Walking in his direction.
Or rather, to the elevator. Causing you an instant impact.
The tall, wonderful man ...
Not the same kind of beauty Ian. Ian was blond, like her,
with pale blue eyes, almost childlike features and an inviting smile
that attracted immediately.

Today man was taller, with a more powerful physique. And

with a darker skin tone. European, yes, but with a Mediterranean
character that matched the black hair.
And the eyes.
Dark eyes that had seemed, for a moment, penetrate your
soul.
Then he spoke only a few words ... ... and the thick voice
resound inside. Although obviously fluent in English, he had an
accent ... she had failed to identify where. Nodding and thanking
her, he passed and entered the elevator, the doors taking it out of
your field of view when closed.
The entire incident had taken a few moments, but now, in
his apartment, he repeated in his head, in slow motion.
Marisa went into the bedroom, putting her bag on the bed,
removing his coat and hung it on the spacious wardrobe. He was
still dazed.
Who is he?
The question formed his head, wanting to be answered.
There were only three apartments on your floor, and one of them
was occupied by an elderly couple who seemed to use it as a pieda-terre in London. She talked briefly with them once, they had told
him that were installed in Hampshire for most of the time, but they
were going to London assiduously in order to attend the theaters.
The other apartment of your floor was occupied by an
oriental gentleman, that Marisa had seen only once, and that was
15 days.
But the man who turns now had clearly emerged that
apartment.
Guest? Guest? New tenant? Marisa had no idea.
And no matter, anyway !, scolded herself, leaving their state
of wonder. People here are not exactly gossiping over fences.
Each one takes care of one's life, and even if it is a new tenant
you'll probably never see it.
In his head, came a spontaneous response:
What a pity.
Impatiently, Marisa sat on the bed and removed his boots,
exchanging them for a pair of slippers. Time to stop dreaming
about a tall, strong stranger she had seen for ninety seconds and
remind herself that she was there because of Ian for nothing else.
Ian was the sole focus of his life, and she could not forget it. Had
so little time with him, and every moment was precious stolen the
two. Speaking of which ...
She checked the answering machine of the fixed phone by
the bed. For your pleasure, was indicating a new message.
Pressed "play" excitedly, but while listening to the message,
saddened.

- Marisa, I'm sorry! I can not find it tonight. I am very upset

by this, but a pile of work came ... some contracts that must be
signed by 10 am tomorrow ... and that means I'll have to check
everyone. If all goes well, maybe ... maybe ... I can have lunch with
you. I'll send a text message late in the morning ...
Ian's voice was cut off, and she looked disconsolately to the
phone. Not seen him for three days, and had hoped to find it
tonight. Had filled the three days getting to know London. But what
looked an exciting prospect when she moved to that fabulous
apartment, a month ago, was becoming tedious.
It should not feel that way, until a month ago, in its existence
before Ian, Marisa worked non-stop, only to survive in London, all
the tourist and entertainment spots in the city being beyond their
means. Now, with the magic wand that Ian shaken in her life, she
had time and money to enjoy all that London had to offer. For a girl
created in rural Devon, this was a world of wonders. Things Marisa
had only seen on TV or read in books were suddenly available to
her.
At first, it brought him happiness. Armed with a full portfolio
miraculously - thanks to the immense generosity of Ian - Marisa
had been able to get into high end stores and buy brand clothes
that had been in his fantasies before. Ian was delighted,
encouraging her, and she saw approval in his eyes whenever they
could find.
It was not only the stores that fascinated her. London had so
many attractive! She visited all the sights, absorbed the history and
culture of the capital, discovering its wonders ... from the incredible
Millennium Wheel to Buckingham Palace, and everything between
these two things. During the evenings, experienced the life of the
theater in London, going to musicals and plays, not sitting in the
cheap seats, but in cabins or privileged seats, coming home, then
in comfortable taxis rather than buses or congested metros.
Everything was absolutely wonderful!
But she was always alone ...
Ian never accompanied him on such trips. Never.
He felt bad about it, as you said:
- I wish so much that he could take her to places, but just
can not.
The voice sounded sad Ian speaking it, and Marisa knew
how he would like things to be different. But they could not be seen
together. The meetings they had were already risky, and she knew
she could not ask for more.
I must not be greedy about it. I must be grateful for what I
have it. Ian has been so wonderful to me ... and I'm so glad we
met.

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

home, something that disability and emotional dependence on his

mother would not have allowed.
But were not only the practical and emotional needs that
have made her mother so much fear that her daughter out of the
house. Marisa was aware of the cause of that deepest fear, and
before go out of town, out to make a last visit to his mother's grave
in the churchyard.
- I go to London, Mom. I know you do not want me to go ...
that'll be worried about me. But I promise you that I will not end up
like you, with a broken heart and ruined hopes. I promise you.
So she had packed their bags, bought his train fare and left.
No idea what happened to him.
No idea that Ian come into your life.
And would change completely.
The beep of the microwave in the kitchen rang, signaling
that the pie was hot. Repressing thoughts, Marisa was making her
tea. Do not feel sorry for herself. Remember how, not long ago, his
life had been much worse. She would have a quiet and
comfortable night.
Two minutes later, he was curled on the couch eating tasty
cake and watching TV. It was a program about nature, past some
beautiful beach. Without paying attention to the information, Marisa
looked at the blue sea, soaking up the tropical paradise
surrounded by palm trees.
Imagine being in a place like this ...
If only Ian ...
She bit her imagination. Ian could not get her to a place like
that. Could not pass a single day in his company. That was the
reality. He could rent that apartment for her, give her clothes and
diamond necklaces, but could not give him time.
Marisa took the tea, trying to concentrate on the program.
The presenter was not British. Had some kind of accent. French?
Spanish? She frowned.C same accent was the man who had
asked him to hold the elevator? She closed her eyes to hear it
again in your head. The presenter's accent was more pronounced,
but it might be the same type. The hair color and skin was also
similar. Picking up the remote, Marisa went to the program
information. The presenter's name was Greek.
The man running would be Greek ?, he wondered.
Maybe.And the apartment which he had left had been previously
occupied by a foreigner. Maybe that was a property of some
international corporation, for different businessmen.
Who is he? It is so wonderful.
Irritated, Marisa scolded herself. What mattered who he
was, why he was there or what nationality was? She had seen him
for less than two minutes. And looked in wonder during this time,

unable to control his reaction to that incredible man. Considering

how people were socially inept in that building, it probably would
not find it.
Marisa changed the channel and finished the pie. The night
stretched before him ...
Two hours later, still feeling bored and restless. I could not
decide what to do next ... go to sleep or watch a movie on TV. The
film that was going to happen was not exactly on your taste, but it
also was not sleepy.
Grabbed the remote. It was stupid to waste time watching
something you did not want. Would go to bed and read something
useful ... like the recently published book on the history of London
that she had bought the week before. Buy books was a luxury so
new that Marisa should take full advantage. In addition, since
leaving college, she barely wore the brain ... what a waste.
And you also do not want to look like a redneck to Ian. Even
if he is not a great intellectual obviously understands business and
is on top of updates.
She turned off the television and rose. Then froze before a
sound never heard before. The doorbell.
Who ..? Puzzled and apprehensive, Marisa went to the
small lobby. There was a safety chain on the door, and a magic
eye also. She peered through the peephole, but had only a
distorted impression of a dark suit. Well, not look like a thief,
anyway.
Cautiously, he opened the chain, which restricted the
opening a few inches, preparing to close the door again, if
someone tried to break into her apartment.
But then a familiar voice with an accent said:
- I regret very much to disturb it ...
Involuntarily, she felt butterflies in my stomach.
- Just a moment. - Marisa released Chain and opened the
door wider.
Was the man who had asked him to hold the elevator door
earlier.
- Excuse me - he said - but I wanted to ask you a favor.
There was a small smile on his face, and a slightly
embarrassed expression. Marisa found that it caused him strange
things. Things took her composure.
- Yeah ... of course - she replied, trying to sound polite but
cold.
The small smile deepened. As the butterflies in your
stomach.
- I just moved into the apartment next to his, and I realized
now that I did arrangements for groceries to be delivered. This
may look as stupid request you've heard, but if you could get me

some milk and a few tablespoons of instant coffee I would be

grateful.
Dark eyes ... with incredibly long lashes ... set in it, the
embarrassed expression contrasting with the formidable air
command that enveloped.
Whoever he is, the kind that gives orders ... and is obeyed.
Marisa swallowed and managed to speak:
- Yes ... yes, of course. No problem. - His voice sounded
hoarse.
His smile widened, forming lines around the mouth. Marisa's
throat tightened. Good God, man was spectacular.
- It's really very kind of you - he said in his deep voice with
an accent, timbre doing things with Marisa she could not stop.
A start, she opened the door wider and turned.
- I ... I ... uh ... I'll get the items - stammered.
She went to the kitchen. His footsteps seemed clumsy, and
she had run into the corner of the sofa when he left the room
toward the kitchen. He was an idiot, beating their own furniture. In
the kitchen, opened the refrigerator and took out a carton of milk. It
was semi. He hoped that he liked. He hoped he liked his instant
coffee brand, also not that he seemed the type of man who took
instant coffee. His eyes were terribly complicated for coffee, which
was unused, next to the microwave. She bought coffee beans,
intending to try, but one look at the instruction manual to melt.
Oh, stop hesitating, girl ... just give him the milk and the
coffee pot.
Marisa returned to the room. He entered the hall, although
the front door was still open.
- Here is - she gasped, holding the requested items.
- Very kind of you.
He was still smiling. The man's height made her small hall
seem even smaller. As dark suit and black cashmere overcoat. His
presence seemed suddenly dominant.
A thought occurred to him.
- I have coffee beans if you prefer. The package is closed. I
do not know operate the coffee.
Oh, God, she was babbling. What mattered to him if she
knew or not operate the coffee maker? However, a dark eyebrow
arched up.
- Would you like me to teach you? They can be very
complicated.
Marisa stiffened.
- Oh, no thanks. I would not dream of giving you trouble.
- It would not be any work, I assure you.
His voice had changed. She did not know how, but he had.
And suddenly I knew why ...

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.

Your grateful neighbor.

Marisa looked at the flowers. A bouquet of lilies that must
have cost at least thirty pounds was a bit excessive for a thank that
type. On the other hand ... well, since I was with Ian, she had
come to realize that the rich were very different. Anyone who could
live in one of those apartments, spend thirty pounds a bouquet of
flowers without notice.
However, as arranged the glorious flowers in a vase found
in a closet, she could not help wishing that the bouquet had been
present Ian.
By no means strange that meant absolutely nothing to her.
Despite the impact that caused him.
She had been trying to forget the incident the night before.
Take what the head. Of course, Ian found it difficult to find it ...
Marisa knew that and accepted it, even wishing it were different.
And if she was feeling lonely without him ... well, considering the
luxury of your life now, ingratitude was feeling less than blissfully
happy.
Wash clothes in hand helped improve your mood as well as
its resolution of a walk in Holland Park. The weather was not good
drizzling, but no matter. She needed to get out, breathe fresh air
and exercise a little.
I need to find a fitness facility, or do some dance lessons.
That would be a good idea. She would ask in some stores in
Holland Park Road when he came out to do grocery shopping. If I
practiced some physical activity, people would know ... other
women with whom he could talk and have coffee. Make friends,
maybe.
Marisa was not very good at making friends, you know. Why
always felt different. Although she and her mother had lived in their
small village on the outskirts of Dartmoor, had not belonged to the
place ... always being considered intrusive. Strange. And the
introverted temperament of his mother, and the fact that she was a
single mother, had increased social isolation of them. Even in
school, Marisa always felt distant from his group, finding it hard to
make friends, get along with others. A warm feeling enveloped.
Therefore, it was so good to be with Ian. They got along so well
His charm, sense of humor, vitality ... all this had taken its shell,
making her feel for the first time relaxed and confident in life.
What made it even more frustrating to have to be a secret in
his life.
If at least Ian could recognize me openly ... not keep me
hidden here ...
Well, that was impossible. It was no use whining.

Wearing a raincoat, she went for a walk. Find a coffee shop

and have lunch out, then do some shopping. This would help pass
the time.
Guilt struck it. Spending time. That was what was going to
do with your life now? Find things to pass the time?
As he walked through the park, began to think critically. As
wonderful it was to live in such a beautiful apartment without
money worries, and lead a life of luxury with which she had never
dreamed she could not live like this.
Needed to find another job ... but to do what? Ian insisted
she stop with cleaning work that had been doing when known. A
thought occurred to him, and Marisa stopped and looked at the
water dripping from a tree. Why not do some kind of charity work?
Since Ian insisted on paying your bills, why not take the
opportunity to help others? How, exactly, she did not know but
could find one of the many charitable bazaars and volunteer your
time ... to separate donated items or work in the box. Such shops
or bazaars may indicate you other places in need of volunteers, so
this would be a starting point.
Resolution filled her, encouraging her. Thought which
should be the nearest charity shops. Probably in Notting Hill or
Kensington High Street. And for sure there would be some in
Shepherds Bush Green.
Start looking after lunch. Would use your new notebook to
research and then start calling to see what was available. With
renewed enthusiasm, he returned to his apartment. Once inside,
was surrounded by an exotic fragrance ... was the bouquet of lilies,
filling the room with its wonderful aroma. And making her
remember the man who sent him.
He was truly magnificent ...
When the bell rang shortly after 18h, Marisa jumped. Been
researching volunteer work, immersed in his reading, and the time
had flown. Read about the lives of some people was terrible had
been a good reminder. Yes, his life had its challenges, no doubt,
and Marisa missed her mother every day, but they had passed
was nothing compared to the suffering of so many people.
Certainly served to stifle their sense of self-pity only because he
saw Ian so little.
The doorbell rang again. With a mixture of irritation, being
disturbed, and curiosity to know who it was, she opened the door.
- The flowers arrived?
The deep voice with an accent caused him the same
butterflies in my stomach that caused him the night before. As the
tall figure and dark eyes rested on his face ...
- Yes, thank you.While the flowers were completely
unnecessary. - His voice sounded almost blunt. Marisa did not

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.

- I do not know.- She spoke sincerely. - I do not know any

Greek, and never been to Greece.
His eyes flashed.
- Well, I hope not cause you a bad impression of my
countrymen, nor my country.
Marisa swallowed. No, whoever the man was, he definitely
did not cause him a bad impression of the Greeks or Greece ...
He was speaking again, she realized, and she forced herself
to watch.
- Having already asked you a favor once, I'll risk my luck
and ask for another. - He paused and looked at her with a
speculative expression. - Do you like theater? I have two tickets to
the premiere of a Chekov's performance tonight, which will debut
next week. I can convince her to keep me company?
Athan was risking, you know that. Chekov could be the last
thing that would persuade her. But their surveillance records
indicated that she had spent several nights in the theater, and that
included some classical pieces. Tickets Chekov were like gold
dust, and perhaps it was enough temptation for her.
Marisa stood still, the heart violently fired, thoughts spinning
in his head.
He's trying to seduce me. The invitation to the theater
leaves no doubt about it! No ambiguity, as in the case of coffee ...
just a direct invitation to come out ...
A strange kind of excitement to come, but there was fear,
too Thanks to insulating your home during childhood, the
difficulties of his mother to raise her alone, Marisa had little
experience with men. He knew he had the kind of appearance that
they liked, but his mother had considered its beauty more a danger
than a blessing ... and the beauty of her mother had proved a
danger when she was young, she thought Marisa sadly. It had
been necessary to Ian's admiration to make it flourish, finally. His
insistence for her to wear beautiful clothes and attend salons had
convinced her that had no problem men think it attractive.
But of course accept the strange beautiful invitation to him
was out of the question. She could not go out with a man just
because he was ... temporarily ... your neighbor. Because he was
rich. And Greek.
And irresistibly beautiful ...
And such a combination makes a man think that gets
everything he wants; girl! So, you know very well what will you do,
do not you? With a polite smile, will decline the invitation. Then,
the door will close and not have anything to do with it.
She opened her mouth to speak just that. And he was angry
when he heard saying:

- This is that new production of The Three Sisters on which I

read in the newspapers?
- Herself. Are you interested?
Yes, she was interested. Anyone who loves the theater
would be. Turn the piece announced, which had a great cast
including an anxious Hollywood star to make his mark as classical
actress.
But that was reason enough to accept the invitation from a
stranger?
Marisa should have shown his hesitation because, before
he could answer, he spoke again:
- Maybe I should tell you that I am not, as you may be
wondering, a murderer, a thief or a spy wanted by Interpol. I'm just
a boringly respectable businessman ...
There was a mix of humor and honesty in his voice, as he
pulled a card from his pocket and handed it to her.
She took the card and examined. It was written in the Latin
alphabet and said simply: Teodarkis properties. There was an
address in Mayfair and a discreet name in the corner: Athan
Teodarkis.
Athan watched her studying the card. He was risking Ian
never mentioned his wife's family name for it, or the owner of the
company for which he worked. As he watched her, could not see
anything in Marisa's face to indicate this, and relief flooded him.
After a moment, he asked,
- This convinces her that I'm harmless?
She looked up from the card.
Harmless? While Marisa looked at that spectacular face, the
word seemed to mock her.
- So, will you? - He insisted. - I hate going to the theater
alone.
- Certainly, you could invite someone who already knows. There was an ironic touch in Marisa's voice, because a man like
him, that woman some describe as "harmless", should have a long
list of women who would give anything for a date with him.
- No one I know likes of Chekov. It does not please
everyone.
- And you think I like? - Marisa challenged, illogically hurt to
realize that she was not the kind of woman he used to ask her out.
- This is your reason to invite me?
Long lashes lowered over eyes with golden highlights.
- One of the reasons - he agreed.
The dark eyes stared at her, conveying his message A
message that said that if she had thought it was not the kind of
woman he usually invited to leave, I was wrong.

There was something in his voice that told her he was a

very experienced conqueror. Because another wave of panic
invaded it. Oh, he could see her as a woman alone, living in a
luxurious apartment, dressed in designer clothes, but could not
know that, deep down, she was just a provincial girl.
- So ... I convinced you? - He asked.
Marisa swallowed.
- Hmm .. I ... I ...
He smiled. The so grin turned his face, causing other
butterflies in her stomach.
- Great. So you can be ready to 19h?
- Hmm ..
- Good girl - he murmured approvingly tone, as if she had
accepted the invitation. Started to walk away, then stopped and
said: - I just realized I have no idea what's your name.
He made the default sound like a cause of humor, not an
indication that she was a stranger. He looked at her expectantly.
There was a strange sensation in the head Marisa, as if all
that was happening was unreal.
Then, as if numb, she replied:
- And ... Marisa Marisa Milburne.
The long lashes lowered again. Then, before she had no
idea what he would do, he felt his hand be taken and raised.
- I am delighted to meet you, Miss. Milburne. - He held her
gaze.
By the time he bent his head and kissed her hand, Marisa
held his breath.
The gesture did not last more than a few seconds, but
irrationally, she missed the touch when he released her hand.
- To compensate for the informal way we met - he added.
And with a killer smile, turned and headed toward the
elevator. Marisa looked at him, unable to move, until the doors
opened and he disappeared from sight. Then, slowly, stunned, she
entered her apartment.
He looked at his hand for several seconds, speechless and
without any rational thought.
Worst of all, without any sense of danger ...

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.

He held his arm. Not possessive, much less an intimate

way, but only to lead her along the sidewalk. Guiding her to where
she wanted it to be.
For a moment, Marisa thought to decline the invitation, but
was hungry and since it had already gone to the theater with him,
what's wrong to go to a restaurant? In addition, wanted to talk
about the play and, if home, would not have to talk to.
Never had, except for Ian.
A wave of sadness enveloped her, but she repressed it. It
was very lucky to have Ian in his life, and, as to make friends in
London ... well, it just depended on her. Work as a volunteer, start
your exercise classes and would soon have friends in the city.
The restaurant where Athan Teodarkis took it was a short
walk from the theater. It was not a very popular or romantic place,
which reassured. Seduction post-theater was clearly not his
intention.
Everything seemed to want Athan was to ask the dishes,
choose the wine and then discuss the production they had just
seen.
- I have to admit - he began, after they had been served
wine - the part irritated me about the sisters wanting to go to
Moscow, but never going. I felt like shouting: "Go buy soon a train
ticket."
Marisa smiled.
- But if you're not used to traveling, and always lived in one
place, go to a big city can be very scary.
Athan studied her for a moment.
- You seem to speak from experience?
- Yes, I speak. Until recently, I had never been out of Devon.
It seems strange these days, but had never been to London.
- What made you come here?
Marisa shrugged.
- Oh, want to see the bright lights ... these things. The usual
reasons.
Ignoring his voice not deceived. However, Athan was found
unable to decide which was the cause of it. The most cynical
interpretation would be an ambition to go to London and catch the
attention of a wealthy man ... just as she had done to his brother.
But had to admit that she could also feel to be seen as a redneck
did not match its sophisticated image.
Not that she was presenting a sophisticated image that
night, Athan also recognized. He had been surprised to note the
modest costume Marisa, which was odd for a woman who was
happy to spend the money of a married man.
A strange thrill through him. Was glad she had not used the
opportunity to try to woo him openly.

He made another comment about the play, getting another

intelligent answer, and when the first course arrived Athan found
that, against expectations, liked to talk to her. Marisa The views
revealed a sensitivity to the dilemmas of the various characters
that showed that she understood the complexities of their
situations ... even that of irresponsible sisters brother.
- I suppose the brother is the character that deserves less
compassion - she said. - But we must consider that he made a
disastrous marriage, and excuse him, in a way.
- An unhappy marriage excuse bad behavior? - Questioned
him, the more neutral tone of voice that was able.
- Sometimes, perhaps - said Marisa.
- The second sister, Masha, would not have had an affair if
you were happily married, have?
- And that exonerates?
Now, his tone sounded critical, and Marisa looked.
- I think it depends on each situation.
So that's what she told herself? Ian Randall was unhappily
married, then that gave him ... and her ... carte blanche to have an
affair?
- Do you think the husband of Masha was right to forgive
her? - The question of Athan was direct.
- Well, divorce was probably impossible at that time. I
suppose he did the best he could of the situation.
Athan sipped their wine.
- Ah, yes, divorce ... a very convenient option.
Marisa stared at him.
- But not always it is made.
She looked away again. That was not a subject he wanted
to discuss. It was very painful, and the arrival of the main course
was a welcome interruption.
When the waiters came out, she took the silverware and
changed the subject:
- What brings you to London?
Realizing that she was deliberately dodging an issue that
was very close to his reality, Athan wondered how Marisa would
react if he told you the truth, I'm here to stop her of having an affair
with Ian Randall ... my brother in law.
But of course it did not.
- Unlike the three sisters, I travel a lot for work. My base is in
Athens, but the firm is international, and trips are always present in
business.
An anxious expression came into her face.
- It must be wonderful.
He gave a sarcastic smile.

- This can become tedious. An airport is much like the other

... and offices are similar anywhere in the world.
- Yes, I suppose traveling both tired after a while.
He studied, in a speculative manner.
- Why not try some day ... travel? Forgive me tell you, but
you have means to do so, right?
Living in an apartment like hers, in a neighborhood like that
... it was a reasonable assumption for him to do ... assuming, of
course, did not know she was held for a lover.
Marisa hesitated.
- Oh, that would be a bit difficult at the moment. But yes,
maybe one day ... would be awesome to know other countries.
- What would be your first choice? - Asked Athan, an idea
forming in his head.
She looked out the window, watching the winter rain falling
outside.
- Any place with a tropical beach - Marisa said with a laugh.
He laughed, too.
- Yes, I can see how this is attractive.
She looked at him.
- You should be accustomed to hot weather?
- Contrary to popular belief, it can get very cold in Athens at
times. This time of year, you would need to go well to the south to
find heat or tropical beaches.
Even as he spoke, the mind of Athan was working. His idea
would be likely to be realized? Any organization would be required,
but this could be done. Best of all, a cynical part of his brain told
him, that would be something about what Marisa could not lie,
then. If necessary, it would prove to Ian that the woman he wanted
as a lover rather another type of man.
Marisa was speaking again, something about a dream
vacation, and Athan watched her. Her expression was more
excited, as if she were lowering the guard who had raised against
him all night.
And the animated way made her even more beautiful.
He could see why Ian Randall was so enchanted by it.
Marisa had a beauty that shone like a star.
I can actually go to the end of it?
Unwanted question arose in his mind, disturbing it. When he
decided that this was the fastest and most effective way to end her
relationship with Ian, it seemed easy. But now that he was there,
having dinner with her, talking to her ... absorbing the incredible
beauty ... questioned whether the idea was so good. There were
secrets that he could not see?

Athan repressed thought. Of course there was no danger ...

not for him, that reach your goal, then leave. Untouched.
Unharmed.
Suddenly realized he had no idea what she was talking
about.
- Sorry ... what were you saying?
She looked at him for a long time. A faint blush colored his
cheeks ... faces like carved alabaster. The lashes down over his
eyes, watching their expression. But it was too late ... he saw and
recognized the expression.
Marisa felt his face burn and looked away quickly. But knew
it was too late. He knew he had not been able to disguise their
reaction to the way he looked. The power of that look, the clear
message on them. She felt hot, panting, heart racing.
Fought for composure. This should not happen! Was there
only because he had invited her to the theater, then for dinner ...
that was not a date, not in the romantic sense. Of course it was
not!
He's a stranger! I do not know!
But he knew enough.
Enough to know that when Athan looked at her, not was
looking like someone to accompany him to the theater and to
dinner afterwards.
All those things she had said to herself about him treating
her like she was the wife of a friend, co-worker or a middle-aged
woman ... mocked her.
Marisa went back to eating. That was what needed to focus.
Talk about banalities ... not really matter the subject.
And do not look for it ... not so. Ignore him if he looks at you.
It took self-discipline and effort ... much effort ... but she
managed to meet its resolution. For the rest of the meal, spoke of
light and cheerful way, finding dark eyes, not paying attention to
the lines that formed around the beautiful mouth when he smiled,
not in long fingers curled around the cup of wine or sexy accent
that seemed to pulse like music in his veins.
But it was as if there were two Marisas. One that was talking
casually, and another watching inside, wanting to do what she was
not allowed to do: absorb it, feel the power of that attraction, the
impact it caused him.
In the taxi on the way back home, she was nervous, sitting
right by the window, deliberately placing his bag on his side, as if
to form a barrier against him, then out of the car as soon as they
arrived. Continued the small talk as they climbed into the elevator,
and, at the time the doors opened, Marisa was in the hallway and
turned to him.

- 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

was so nice to go to the theater with another person, but because

Athan company out good. Oh, not only because it was beautiful to
die, but because it was exciting to talk to him, exchanging views on
the play.
Having spent one weekend alone - Marisa accepted he
could never see Ian on weekends because that was the time he
spent with his wife - had taken her to see how she felt isolated in
London, despite the easy and prosperous life . His resolution to get
some volunteer work and make friends if strengthened, and on
Monday she was the nearest charity shop and asked to volunteer.
Then discovered music lessons in the neighborhood and had
applied these also, however, his good humor was gone later that
day, when Ian had called. Again, he could not find it. I did not know
when he would be free to see it ... maybe towards the end of the
week, maybe not.
Marisa had been comprehensive. The work required of him,
especially at the time, and there were other demands Ian's time ...
including his wife. It was all understandable.
But when he hung up, having canceled another lunch with
her, Marisa felt depressed. The moment the phone had rung
again, a little later, and a accented voice sounded across the line,
it instantly rejoice.
- This is a very remote chance, but you'd be interested in
Hamlet at the National Theatre? - Asked Athan Teodarkis. - Or
have you attended?
- I love - she replied immediately.
- Great. Thursday okay?
Marisa hesitated for a moment.
Fifth usually was the night that Ian could find it without
arousing suspicion wife. Eva went to the book club that day, and
would not know that he had arrived late. But the call from him
sooner, already warned that he would be stuck working that week.
He will probably be relieved if I get another commitment.
You will not feel bad about the inability to see me, she rationalized.
A second later, gave his response to Athan.
The answer he wanted, the answer intended to extract it. He
deliberately not sought at the weekend, knowing that Ian never
found these days.
But with the end of the weekend, Athan known he needed to
continue with its strategy to separate it from the married man.
As with Chekov, Hamlet was followed by a dinner during
which the talk about production predominated. However, again
Marisa was wearing the kind of discrete costume, and again Athan
behaved in scrupulous way, saying goodbye chastely and wishing
him a good night.

Expecting another order of solitary week, Marisa was

surprised when the doorbell rang just before noon the following
Sunday.
- It's a glorious sunny day ... I can persuade her to lunch at
the Belvedere in Holland Park? - Invited Athan Teodarkis.
Her face lit up.
- Oh, it looks wonderful! I've never been there.
He smiled.
- So I definitely need to take it. The place is memorable.
- This time it's on me. I urge you to be my guest for a
change.
The expression changed Athan. For a moment, Marisa
thought it had offended him. Then, with his eyes still veiled, he
shook his head.
- This is not necessary.
Marisa studied. There seemed to be a shadow in his eyes.
A shiver ran through her.
Then the shadow disappeared.
- Make a dinner for me the other night - he said. - A simple
meal will do. Oh, and I can teach you to use your coffee!
- Okay - she agreed, wondering if it was still that strange
chill that troubled her, or the prospect of Athan having dinner in his
apartment ...
Really felt that chill ?, wondered later, when they were en
route to Holland Park.
He was, as he said, a glorious day ... but very cold. She was
grateful to be with his cardigan and his leather boots, as they
crossed the park toward the restaurant. It was located in the
ballroom, which was almost all that remained of the great Holland
House, which had once been erected there.
She wished she had taken sunglasses, as Athan. While
glanced sideways, I felt butterflies in my stomach.
What was the dark glasses that made him even more ...
more sexy than it already was?
Realizing that he'd caught her looking at him, Marisa began
to speak, to disguise:
- I love Holland Park, even at this time of year. Shame
Holland House has been pumped into the war ... and now is only a
hostel for young people. And the Orangery, where the Belvedere
restaurant is, of course. Apparently, there is a season of operas in
the summer. All outdoors. It must be wonderful on a hot summer
night!
She was babbling, but could not help. He did not seem to
mind, however, and they continued talking as they walked to the
restaurant.

The setting was really memorable ... a ballroom of the

eighteenth century, with long beautiful windows that let the sun in
winter. And the breakfast was divine.
Marisa found that he was very comfortable in his company.
Athan was no longer a stranger.
She did not know much about him personally ... but then
they did not talk about personal things, which was good for Marisa.
She obviously could not discuss
Ian, but did not want to talk about her life in Devon. A life
that left in the past ... for which no return. Moreover, Athan clearly
saw it as an independent woman who lived in a luxury apartment
and wore expensive clothes. What would he think if he knew she
had grown up in a seedy cottage by a poor single mother who had
tried to keep a roof over their heads?
But all this was a universe away from your current life. She
looked beautiful and expensive restaurant, looked at the man who
accompanied her, who ran his own international company and
casually talked about going to places in private planes and have
an army of servants at their disposal.
A rich man, cosmopolitan, sophisticated.
Devastador ...
Excitement ran through. That was not a convenient use of a
theater ticket. It was a genuine invitation to her personally.
Because he wanted his company.
And Marisa reached the same conclusion for the following
week when he took her to a concert at the Royal Festival Hall and
a production of Night of the Kings.
And was invited to dinner at her apartment.
She was nervous about it. And not only because he had no
idea what to cook for a man who could eat anything I wanted. His
culinary skills were very basic.
She admitted it verbally, and was relieved when Athan
smiled.
- In fact, I would like a traditional roast of England - he said.
- I think I can do this - she said, adding: - How about a
crunchy apple for dessert? - Along with the roast, and pastries
were some of the things his mother taught him.
- Apple Crisp? - He asked.
- It's a pie whose mass is without water. Very light!
And so it proved ... just like the rest of the meal, including
the company. She tried to make a very traditional English roast,
and Athan seemed to enjoy. As for herself, her stomach was full of
butterflies ... and it was not because he was concerned that he did
not like the meal.

It was because Athan Teodarkis was in his apartment, and

there was no one there. Because it caused him a powerful impact.
And because she was aware of him in a way that should not be.
With willpower, Marisa managed to get to the end of the
meal without showing that he moved so much to her. Do not know
why it was so vital, only it was.
I can not let down your guard ... just can not!
But it was becoming increasingly difficult.
In the kitchen, then apple pie - in which he delight - Athan
walked to the coffee, calling it so he could explain the mechanism.
She was very close to him, his big hands pointing controls,
shoulders almost brushing hers. His face was so close when he
turned his head to explain something that Marisa walked away, his
heart racing.
He had noticed? Noticed as she walked away and started
chattering to cover her nervousness? Something about how she
loved cappuccino, but hated expressed. If Athan noticed, not
shown, and that was what mattered. He did not think she was
having ideas about it.
Agitated, Marisa occupied by placing coffee cups in the tray.
Carried the tray into the room and placed it on the coffee table,
sitting in armchair, leaving the couch opposite him. Would not
allow him to think she wanted the proximity of the two.
He gave a small smile to see where she had chosen to sit?
Marisa was not sure and did not want to think about it. I just
wanted - while drinking coffee, accompanied by the music of your
choice ... vibrant music of Vivaldi, definitely not romantic - get to a
point where he began to yawn, Athan thanked for going out there
and expecting his departure.
Because it was what I wanted, was not it? Of course it was!
Anything else was unthinkable. Unthinkable watching him as he
took the coffee with a long leg crossed casually over the other, the
light blue cashmere sweater marking the chest and broad
shoulders and the light dark shadow in the jaw that made you
imagine sliding your fingers along that line carved ...
Marisa blinked, horrified at herself.
This had to stop, now! She could not begin to have ideas ...
ideas that involved Athan Teodarkis and her in such an intimate
level. But it was exactly what was happening, while they remained
sitting there, talking about general issues with him so relaxed, and
Vivaldi now shifting to a slower pace and ...
Seductive ...
The Athan's eyes were fixed on his, with a veiled expression
in them. The conversation seemed to have stopped, and Marisa
tried to pretend he was listening to music.
Not looking for Athan.

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.

He wanted her. Could not deny.He wanted to look beautiful

and seductive woman who was demurely Marisa Milburne. He
wanted her, regardless of her story with his weak character coined.
Oh, heard, since he'd seen the photo of Marisa, it would be
no sacrifice seduce her for his purposes. But with each meeting,
he wanted more than she had ever been involved with Ian. And not
just for the sake of her sister.
For your own good
I want for me ... no other complications, strategies or plans,
or ulterior motives.
Athan sighed. No matter what he wanted for himself, he
thought. Was doing it for Eve. It was what he needed to remember.
And time was running out. He would have only a small
window while Ian and Eve were in the United States to achieve its
goal of enticing Marisa and take it from his brother.
Why was there now, two days after having dinner at her
house, sitting in a restaurant in Holland Park Avenue, waiting for
Marisa opened the white envelope he handed her.
Marisa was still looking at the envelope. Accepted the
invitation to dine with reluctance. He had to stop it. Was engaging
too.
The day before, she finally managed to have lunch with Ian.
His face told her what she had feared to hear.
- I need to go to San Francisco. You order from my boss,
and I have no way to escape.
- How long, do you think?
- At least for a week, probably more - Ian replied, apologetic
way. - The problem is that ... Eva had the idea to turn this Numas
short vacation ... flying from San Francisco to Hawaii. So maybe I'll
out for three weeks or more.
The mere mention of Hawaii sent a wave of envy by Marisa.
Hawaii ... tropical beaches ... palm trees ... silver sand ...
But she would not be there. She was stuck in London ...
where time had become cruel. Even when he left the taxi to arrive
with Athan in the restaurant, the wind almost made her freeze.
- So? - Encouraged Athan, indicating the envelope, an
expression in his eyes that looked expectantly.
Marisa looked at the envelope. Carefully opened it with a
knife and removed the contents. Her eyes widened.
- You said you wanted a tropical beach - he murmured.
But she was staring, rapt, to the pamphlet before him. A
palm tree, a blue sea, a silvery beach, and at the back, a resort
with thatched roof, with a huge pool in front, even bluer than the
ocean.
Protruding from the pamphlet, there were two airline tickets.
- Go with me - Athan said.

His voice was soft. Intimate. Persuasive.

Marisa raised his head to look at him ... and gasped at what
he saw in his eyes. An open expression. Unveiled.
He took her hand in his. It was the first time he touched so
deliberately. Except to raise his hands to his lips in a formal way
and skim the light of fingers on his face, he never touched her. But
the hot hand that involved his seemed to involve your entire being,
too.
- Go with me - repeated Athan. - Stand by Me.
Powerful emotion filled her, as if hundreds of butterflies
were suddenly flying inside. The Athan thumb rubbed her palm.
From intimate way. Possessive.
- Say yes ... it's all I ask.
She had known this would happen, right? Not felt the
connection from the moment he set eyes on it? His heart had not
fired and blood, pulsed? Not known, every time had been with him,
that was what I wanted ... who dreamed?
Athan saw that she was giving. Delicate features softened,
his blue eyes flashed, telling him everything he wanted to know.
The triumph filled. He managed to ... finally. She would not reject
him now. Not the most keep the distance, treating it as if it were a
forbidden fruit. Now, Marisa prove the fruit that he offered.
And he ... oh, he would do the same. Profit this time with her
and to become his. Put aside, if only for a few weeks, all the
worries about her sister and her marriage.
For now, just for now, do what every moment with Marisa
confirmed him, that what he wanted was her ... inteirinho for
yourself.
Away from it all to send a shadow on it.
Only the two ... together.
Just that.

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.

And the Caribbean beach with silver sand, palm trees

swaying in the breeze and red hibiscus, was not the only dream
turning into reality.
The man beside her was too.
She lost her breath several times during the trip, curled up in
first class seat. Excitement filled out, not only to be going abroad
for the first time, or because he was traveling in first class, but
mainly because of the man sitting next to you.
Had made the right decision to accept the invitation to go.
Felt it. For how could it be otherwise? How could have resisted
what he offered? It was impossible to resist Athan Teodarkis!
There had, of course, a momentary hesitation when she
thought of Ian ... but soon choked off. Ian was away ... and she
would be in London, alone, when you could be on a tropical
beach?
With Athan.
Day after day, every time she met him, her response to him
intensified. It became increasingly aware of the effect that it
caused her.
I can not resist it ... I can not resist what he is offering ...
And for that brief idyllic period, there in that tropical
paradise, Marisa not resist anything he offered you.
She gave a sigh of pleasure. Happiness to fulfill, and a
delicious sense of freedom. Anything that is complicated or difficult
in your life would not be part of this moment. This moment was for
her ... and for the man who was in his company.
- I'm glad I was not disappointed you - he murmured.
For a long moment, his eyes Athan caressed her. Then, as
if reluctantly, his expression changed.
- What would you like to do first? - He asked.
Marisa did not hesitate to answer:
- I can not resist this sea! He is calling me!
He laughed.
- And me. Sure ... go to the beach, then.
He led her into the hut. It was designed as if it were simple,
but it was a simplicity that belied a level of luxury that matched the
whole atmosphere of the resort.
During the flight, Athan told him about the island and what
awaited them there.
- St Cecile was lucky to escape the heavy tourism - he said.
- The island is away from the most popular places; then, until
recently, was long overdue. Only in the last ten years there has
been a cautious development for tourism, but so that the resorts
were very far apart, and beautifully situated. It is a precious island,
in my opinion.

Even without having nothing to compare the island, Marisa

could only agree. It was like stepping into one of those luxury
travel magazines, he thought. A place that most people could
never visit.
And here I am !, thought of delight.
Marisa entered the room. Once they had followed the porter
from the main building of the resort, and entered her cabin, she felt
a little nervous to see the single room. Somehow, it stated quite
openly what those holidays involve.
So what was nervousness felt, or a wave of excitement?
Expectation?
He felt the same now as he sought a bikini in your suitcase.
She hurriedly bought the day before the flight, and now, as she
watched him on the quilt, felt his nerves increasing. In the locker
room, the bikini seemed right for such an exotic destination, but
now think of using it in front of a man who had seen only in winter
clothes today caused her trepidation.
In any case, would have to use it. But before leaving the
porch, Marisa wore a yoke, which gave him a thin layer of
protection, for which she was grateful when Athan appeared.
His eyes traveled on immediately, making her feel naked,
despite the yoke. But if Athan was admiring her body, she was
doing the same to him ... noting the Navy shorts low on the hips
and torso completely exposed.
Athan was all she imagined ... and more. The strong body,
without an inch of fat. Tanned skin Moldovan firm muscles,
abdomen straight and narrow hips.
Marisa looked away.
- Let's bet a race to the sea! - She exclaimed with joy a little
forced.
He turned to go down the steps to the beach, but a hand
grabbed his shoulder, stopping her.
- Wait ... you went sunscreen?
- Yes ... very.
Athan nodded.
- Great.It is essential at this latitude. My skin can handle
more exposure than his, being naturally darker, but even I have to
use a little. Your - dark eyes seemed to caress her - must be fully
protected. It would be a crime to burn a delicate skin.
As he spoke, softened the touch on his shoulder, echoing
the caress the eyes and voice. The heart of Marisa shot.
- Okay, let's bet this race!
- He lowered his hand and started down the stairs.
- This is theft! - She cried indignantly, and ran after him.

Inevitably, Athan reached the first sea and dipped so water

was hitting on her waist. Moments later, she followed, feeling the
water close as silk around.
Rose to the surface, her hair falling on his bare back, drops
sparkling like diamonds in your entire body.
Athan could not take his eyes off her. Thee mou, but it was
glorious. As a sea nymph, born of the wave, while the translucent
water bathed ... and so divinely beautiful as a creature of ancient
mythology.
He had always known that she was beautiful, but to see it
whole, so gloriously displayed in a tiny bikini, veiled only by water,
was breathtaking.
But even as he admired, could feel his internal conflict. He
could hear a warning whisper:
Watch Out. She's beautiful, yes, and you want too. But do
not forget ... do not let yourself forget why you're here. For what
purpose ...
Impatiently, suppressed the warning voice. There would be
time for that later, when they returned to England, but for now
could forget everything and focus only on the glorious fact that I
was there with Marisa.
A sense of well-being flooded. It was there, in that heavenly
place, and the worries behind, an ocean away. That wonderful
woman was for him ... just for him. A delicious expectation filled it.
- This is paradise! - Marisa said. She lay, indulging in the
water, leaving the floating sea bear it as she floated gently.
The sun bathed her body, and she had to close her eyes
against the blinding light. How long was floating she was not sure,
because time seemed to float now, as your body. Until she felt two
hands on his shoulders and began to turn it like a starfish.
- I do not like to wake her, but considering it's your first time
in this climate, I think you should get out of the sun now whispered Athan.
Reluctantly, she let her feet sink into the soft sand and rose.
The sun was shining on tanned skin Athan, making him look like a
bronze sculpture. Marisa could not take his eyes off that incredible
body, and he smiled.
- It's the same for me - Athan said, his voice low, the clear
meaning.
She blushed and dipped again, throwing his head back, to
re-emerge, so that the water comb your hair.
Marisa walked towards the beach, feeling the sun beating
down on your back.
- Bath time - Athan said, and she wished he had not said
that, as invoked images she had to suppress immediately.

- Me first. - She laughed and climbed the stairs to the cabin,

running, coming to the bathroom before him.
After a refreshing shower and wash the head, Marisa
involved one of fluffy towels around the body and went out on the
balcony to hang your bikini on the guardrail. Would dry fast, she
knew, even in the shade.
The sun was lowering in the sky. West of the Caribbean
shore, the beach would be a fabulous place to watch the sunset,
he realized. A little left of their cabin had a structure as a fixed
palanquin, with a huge mattress and a matching canvas awning.
Pillows tumbled surface, and the ends were transformed into a
kind of top table ... where to place drinks, she thought.
Combing hair, Marisa looked at the peaceful scene. You
could see that there were other huts along the shoreline, but the
distribution of vegetation and palm trees was such that each cabin
seemed to have its own part of the beach. The place was designed
to be completely private.
Intimate.
Another of those friozinhos belly through her. As the
evening end ?, he wondered.
But know ... of course he knew! There would only be a way
to end a night like that. One result under the tropical stars.
She was in the arms of Athan. His heart rejoiced at the
thought.
How life was wonderful! Grant you that place so idyllic ...
and in the company of a man like Athan.
With a delicious shiver of anticipation, she went to get
dressed. It was too early to get ready for dinner, then Marisa put
one of the adorable cotton dresses that had brought with spaghetti
strap and hitting almost ankles. Did not bother to put a bra
because it was very hot for this. Put on flip-flops and went to the
small dining room in which the front of the cabin opened.
He could hear the sound of the shower, indicating that
Athan was taking a bath, and she walked over to the fridge, poured
himself a glass of orange juice with mango and went to the outside
again. The shaded palanquin looked so inviting that Marisa walked
in that direction, settling there, against the stacked pads.
- So, here you are. - A deep voice sounded behind her.
Marisa turned his neck and saw Athan approaching. He
wore a cotton shorts and a short sleeve shirt, open at the collar.
She was beautiful, as always.
And also holding a cup in hand.
- It's a little early for the sunset, but when the sun hit the
balcony I will open a bottle of champagne is in the refrigerator - he
said with a smile. - Until then, it is only fruit juice.
- For me too. - She smiled.

He climbed on the mattress, but settled down in the

opposite corner. Marisa was grateful. The experience of being
there with Athan was so intense, and, knowing what was coming,
she wanted to savor every step of the way.
I do not want to rush things. I want everything to be perfect.
Unforgettable!
So, for now, it was perfect to sit there in Athan company,
feeling relaxed and free.
- I can not believe I'm here - she murmured. - It is so
unbelievably fantastic. Like being in a dream.
- Oh, that's very real. - The voice sounded Athan fun.
But there were some other undefined thing there. She
looked at him.
He was looking, but, as in voice, there was something in
that look that Marisa could not identify ... like he was hiding
something from her. Then, a moment later, the expression
disappeared, and he leaned to hit the glass in his.
- At holiday that we will never forget - toasted him, the warm
eyes.
- I will never forget it!
- No, you will not forget.
Looking at her intently, he took a sip of juice, then turned his
head to the sea, where the sun was lowering his golden globe
toward the ocean, he hoped his embrace.
Just as I'm waiting for the Athan hug, Marisa thought
dreamily.
They talked a bit, got a little silent, listening to the waves hit
the silver beach. The place was so peaceful and so quiet that they
could be the only two people on the beach, or even on the island.
- That's a real coconut? - She asked, looking at the top of a
palm tree.
Athan laughed.
- You think it's fake?
- Maybe we tie false coconuts on the tops of palm trees, to
impress guests - she said, getting into the spirit of the game.
- We will ask an employee to take some for us. You need to
see them climb palm trees. It's quite clever ... they tie a rope in the
trunk and use it to climb to the top ... it's amazing!
- You speak as if he had ever seen.
- Well, not here - he admitted. - I've never been in this resort
before.
So, of course, Athan chosen the place. He was not known
there, and had little chance of finding someone who knew him or
who knew his sister. In addition, the resort was designed for
couples who wanted to isolate ... including other couples.
What made it the ideal place to take Marisa Milburne.

Isolated, luxurious, discreet. Perfect for your intentions.

The discomfort involved. Marisa trusted him so much ...
leaning there, taking the juice, looking at the sea, relaxed and
graceful pose.
I should really do this?
The question did not want to hear penetrated his
consciousness.
You brought her here so she wanted, instead of wanting to
Ian.
And she wanted! She wanted him as much as he wanted ...
all your senses told you that. And for that reason, Athan choked
his restlessness.
England, his sister, his brother traitor ... all seemed far, far
away.
And Marisa ... ah, she was blessedly close.
He raised his glass to her again.
- Year old.
And blue eyes shone like jewels in the golden sunlight
setting.
Marisa's eyes narrowed in concentration, listening intently.
A hotel employee was talking with another native of the island, and
she was trying to understand what they were saying.
She abandoned the attempt, turning their attention to Athan,
sitting on the opposite side of the table.
- I can not understand a word - she said. - That does not
sound English.
- Not - he replied, amused. - The Creole island is based in
France, but also includes fragments of African languages, as well
as the Caribbean original languages. Do not worry if you can not
understand ... most outsiders do not understand. All Creole
Caribbean developed their own languages. They have their own
literature and also, nowadays, there is a real effort to preserve
them for future generations of islanders.
Marisa shook her head.
- The language does not sound like French, also
She looked Athan. He was incredibly attractive. Since they
had watched the sunset on the palanquin, toasting with
champagne, as he promised, Athan traded the shorts by khakis,
and another wore short-sleeved shirt, open at the neck. His black
hair was slightly disheveled, and the relaxed posture seemed to
emphasize the powerful body.
What Marisa wanted to do was just sit there, watching him.
But what I had to do was keep talking, to prevent looking like a fool
dazzled. This was difficult, especially because of the habit of
Athan sit back in the chair and let his gaze go through it, not
hiding that he liked what he saw.

Who loved what he saw ...

Again, she felt butterflies in my stomach, and I knew to
perfect in his appearance that night was paying off. After the
champagne on the beach, she disappeared into the bathroom,
applying a careful makeup - not much, because of the hot weather,
but enough to highlight your eyes to the maximum ... as his lips.
The choice of costume was also careful. A long dress Tanks, red
and gold, with a high waist that made her look thinner and taller.
She had put a shawl around her shoulders combining. The
temperature had dropped a little, but the night was enjoyable.
Now, when he took the cup of wine to his lips, her gold
bracelets capturing the light, I knew I had to be pretty. Other
couples were having dinner in the main restaurant too, although
each table offered privacy, being surrounded by plant pots and
flowers. The dining area formed almost a semicircle around the
pool of the resort, which shone with underwater lights.
During my whole life, she thought, delighted, I will remember
this. This magical and wonderful place, tonight magical and
wonderful.
That magical and wonderful man that made everything for
her reality ...
But she could not keep looking at it that way.
- Then, when the island became English? - Marisa asked,
putting interest in his voice.
- I believe that the island has changed hands several times
... depending on various treaties between France and England
during the eighteenth century. But just definitely being English after
the Napoleonic Wars. One of the advantages of victory - Athan
said. - The French plantation owners kept their properties, so did
not care much. As for the slaves ... well, I think they have benefited
in the end, being emancipated in 1834, which was earlier than in
other French colonies.
A troubled expression flashed in Marisa's eyes.
- Slavery casts a long shadow in such a beautiful place, is
not it?
Athan picked up his glass of wine, taking a sip.
- The fact that, while the modern world honors the ancient
Greek democracy, their economy entirely depended on slave
labor, is long ago, one of the ironies of Greek civilization - he
noted.
She frowned.
- It seems horrible that slavery was able to bloom again after
Europeans discovered the Americas.
- Oh, it's easy to convince yourself that your behavior is
justified when it benefits you physically - said Athan.

He studied her and saw Marisa's face suddenly become

embarrassed. She was thinking about how he felt happy to let Ian
Randall sustain it?
However, as speculated, his own thoughts questioned:
How about you?Says it is doing all this to save the marriage
of his sister ... however, is benefiting from the situation, is not it?
Having this beautiful and desirable woman for yourself!
But do not want to think about being back in England. Did
not want to think about what would have to say to Marisa, then,
and why. Do not want to think about his sister, much less in his
mischievous brother. Did not want to do anything except enjoy the
present moment ... enjoy the days and nights that would have
there, Marisa.
And that's what I would do! Appreciate the present moment,
reveling in every second of the experience.
He set the glass on the table and began to eat. The meal
was excellent ... fresh grilled fish, seasoned with sweet spices.
Marisa was eating shrimp on a skewer, dipping each in a rich
coconut sauce.
- The prawns are good? - He asked in lazy tone.
- Fabulous! While I think that should be a thousand calories
in each
- You can make eating only fruit for dessert - he murmured,
smiling.
Compensate for the calories rich main course eating fruit
dessert was certainly not spoil things ... the slices of tropical fruits,
served with crushed ice, were as delicious as the most calorie
sweets. Athan ate a slice or other sporadically, leaning back in his
chair, turning the glass of brandy on the fingers. To Marisa,
enough alcohol. The champagne earlier, added to the wine during
dinner, already had left a little dizzy.
A feeling of absolute well-being fulfilled. Bliss ... that was the
thought that came into his head all the time. But how could you not
be happy here in this hot paradise with a man like Athan
Teodarkis? Who was looking at her now with beautiful and intense
eyes.
She shivered inside. Excitement ... expectation ... feelings
that only increased when, after breakfast, Athan rose.
- We Will? - He said, and held out his hand.
Marisa accepted the offered hand. But even when he was
standing, he did not let go of her hand. They strolled around the
pool, and it felt so right go hand in hand with it!
Beyond the pool, beautiful gardens gave way to more sandy
soils with low vegetation, and the paved area was dispersed in
multiple small ways, all bright. As they neared the cabin, she could

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.

She cried. A scream that went on and on, as the storm

inside her body went on and on, and it was another world, another
life, another Marisa ... one that she had never known, never
dreamed existed.
Then another voice joined your ... hoarse, deep and
persistent. She felt the Athan fill your body, felt the culmination of
that infinite rhythm, felt flying with her to that other world that was
consuming, so that your entire body had become an open flame.
For long moments, Marisa was bathed in fire, the heat of
involving both merging them, unifying them. So when your satisfied
and exhausted bodies could not take it anymore, she felt the fire
begin to diminish in intensity until, slowly, went out. Leaving in its
wake not gray, but a sweetness ... a feeling of bliss.
How long they stayed there, their bodies entwined, that
Marisa did not know. I only knew I had found a place where never
wanted to leave. There, in the arms of Athan, dozing and waking
up, holding him against his chest.
Close to your heart ...
Marisa swam lazily toward the ladder to the pool. When he
got closer, the pool was shallow, and she walked the rest of the
way, before sitting down on one of the submerged half stone
benches. The bartender came over and asked, with his
characteristic accent of the islanders, what it's like. Opting for a
margarita strawberry without alcohol, Marisa sipped a cold drink
while peacefully watched the turquoise water of the pool and the
blue sea beyond.
Even after almost two weeks there, still could not get tired of
the view before him. Gave a happy sigh. As could not get tired of
Athan.
Not that I had to run out of it. I was with him the whole time.
There were only a short daily break when, as he was doing now,
Athan went to the computer room of the resort to get inevitable
updates of their business. But he usually did not take more than
half an hour. Except that, they were together all the time.
A delight wave enveloped her. She had known from the
beginning, to go there with Athan would be unforgettable, but had
not realized how much.
And it was not just sex, although that bring you an amazing
and transforming experience each time. But it was not just sex.
How could it be, when it seemed that his being caught fire, was
consumed like a phoenix, to be reborn in that moment of ecstasy,
wrapped in his arms? Certainly, it was not just sex be consumed
with passion ... want it not only while they made love, but the
delicious warmth that followed, when they were still just lying,
caressing each other, looking at each other, sated and sleepy.

Sleep in his arms, only to wake up later and feel it start to

make love again, as if he could not get enough of her.
However, the paradise here in St Cecile was ending, Marisa
thought sadly. In a day or two, they would return to London. To
their normal lives.
What would happen then?
Heaven could continue?
That was the question that whirled around and around in
your head. She suppressed in the beginning, but since the second
week started to disappear day by precious day, the question
insisted on being answered.
But Marisa did not want to answer it. Did not want to think
about the answer could be ... she feared it would be.
That was an idyllic ... happy and unforgettable ... break a
tropical paradise, where reality seemed as distant as the winter in
England. But what would happen when the break was over?
Questions fed their concern. Yes, Athan was her there, but
even there, in the last days, she felt emotionally move away
sometimes ... briefly, but noticeable. It was a mental gathering, as
if their intimacy was ending. Sometimes there was a look in his
eyes that made him look like a stranger. Then, a moment later, he
was normal again ... and Marisa wondered if imagined that.
Athan was a businessman with an empire to run ... how
could stay focused only on it? Of course, his mind, from time to
time, wandered to more important matters.
More important than her.
Fear filled her. A fear that she did not want to face.
Fear of a time that does not want to face.
But this time would come. And it was very close.
He tells me words of passion ... but only passion. He smiles
at me, hold my hand, walk beside me and carry me in his arms ...
but what he feels about me? Only passion? Only wish?
Marisa did not dare answer. And do not dare answer a
question even more frightening:
What I feel for him? Only passion? Only wish?
Yup!It had to be. She could not allow it to be anything else.
Because, when the island was nothing more than a slice of
invisible and distant land, and their reality was again the busy
streets of London and cold, she would find a truth that dare not
know yet ... a truth that feared.
And if he does not want me anymore?
Marisa took a deep breath, looking at the bright water.
I need to prepare for it. I need to prepare myself for when he
leaves me.

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.

Impossible because of Marisa.

Even when he thought of her name could feel her response
to him. Feel his arm tightening around the more slender waist,
while she slept. Felt like it was right to have it there in your arms ...
I did not know it would be like. He knew he wanted ... but I
never imagined that the sense of ownership would be so ... great!
Everything seemed to come together. The burning passion
between them, the union of perfection of both the incredible
experience to intimate exploration of each other.
And the little things ... the time we spent together when
we're making love. The immense pleasure to be with her. The
laughter. The silences that are quiet, not tense. The
companionship.
Anything they were doing ... eating under the stars or
relaxing on the beach or by the pool, or riding a boat, watching the
glorious sunset, or watching the moon rises among the palm trees
... it was all so ... so ... easy ...
What about sex ...
His body stiffened, despite being satiated.
How could he love her so much? How could feel an intensity
so amazing, every time? Feel what he felt the climax? What he felt
then, as now, as if there is nothing in life that he wanted more than
to lie there with Marisa in her arms?
And it would have to end it. Destroy the relationship.
Denounce it as the woman who was threatening the
happiness of his sister. Once he told him what had been his
intentions with her from the beginning, all would, he knew.
I do not want to do that. I do not want to tell her, confront it,
denounce it, criticize it.
But if he did not ...
Athan hardened heart. How could put yourself in front of
your own sister?
I need to do that. I do not want, but need. Do not want to be
a selfish coward, I care more about my own desires than with my
sister.
That was the brutal truth. The fact that he could not deny.
Which could not hide. He had to do it ... finish what he started.
In her arms, Marisa moved, waking. The delightful body
moved against his, and Athan felt responding. The blue eyes
opened, met his. She gave him a sexy smile.
He lifted his mouth to his ...
He answered the call, and the pleasure of Marisa's mouth
banned all its disturbing thoughts.
London was far ... an ocean away.
Here now is my entire universe.
All he wanted ...

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

on your floor. Probably already sent to transfer your belongings.

The separation would become so easier.
The elevator doors opened, and
Marisa took the key, opened the door, as he continued with
his suitcase. Athan put him in the lobby.
- You can put mine in my room, please?
She went to the living room. The air was cold, and she
called the thermostat before turning up.
Athan was standing in the center of the room, the face
saying everything. She waited for him to speak. Accept the reality
head-on, and behave with dignity.
I do not beg, do not cry, do not will question. Just accept
and follow ahead ... as he will.
Athan remained silent, standing there, with a gloomy air
around you. His face was like a mask ... completely closed.
Then, abruptly, he said,
- I have something to tell you.
An expression intrigued shadowed eyes of Marisa. His voice
was so hard ... so harsh. Certainly, it need not be so hard,
needed? There was a civilized way to end a brief incandescent
case?
But the Athan's face seemed increasingly inflexible. The
heart of Marisa shot, adrenaline pumping through your veins. It
was as if something bad ... worse ... was about to happen, and his
body was preparing. For the first time, she began to feel fear, not
only for him to finish everything, but fear of something different ...
Because what he saw in the closed expression of Athan
was something never seen before.
It was anger.
Contained but present. As a force emanating from him.
What's happening? Why is he behaving like this?
Questions swirled in his head. Confusion and apprehension
transpareciam in his eyes, and his body was rigid with tension.
Then he dropped the bomb:
- You will not see Ian Randall again. It's out of his life
forever.
Shock detonated. Athan saw it on her face. And felt a
savage pleasure at such a reaction. As wild as the anger that had
been consuming. And now released outside. A rage whose cause
he refused to name.
Why name it would give power to her. Power over him.
Power Athan not allow.
He could not allow ...
She held the sofa arm, as if without this support, would fall.
Shock was still stamped on her pretty face.

- 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?

Marisa nodded. He would not leave, she knew, until he had

obtained what had been seeking.
What ever planned to get ...
Do Not!She could not think about it ... could not let the
perception of what it had exploded in his brain ... not yet.
Remained motionless, holding back. Unable to speak, unable to
anything.
Athan sighed. He fulfilled his mission. And now there was
nothing else to do.
- I'm leaving.
He turned and walked toward the door, taking her suitcase
in the hall. He closed his hand on the doorknob. For a brief
moment, seemed to freeze ... as if ... as if ...
Then, abruptly, opened the door and disappeared.
Marisa stared at the place where he had been. Then slowly,
very slowly, sank on the couch.
Burning pain.
Athan walked along the corridor.
His countenance was closed. His mind was closed. Every
part of her was closed.
And it was essential for him to keep everything closed.
While down in the elevator, crossed the lobby, went to the
street, took his cell phone, in order to draw a car with chauffeur to
take you to your own apartment, words swirled in his head.
It is done.
That's what had to remember.
Marisa would no longer walking on the beach at his side, the
silver sand under the beautiful bare feet, the waves washing the as
they walked ...
Marisa would not have under the stars, the elegant neck
extended skyward, blonde hair cascading like silk on the back, as
he pointed it constellations. No longer feel your pulse body as he
framed her face in her hands, kissed her and lowered the body
delight in the sand below ...
Do not feel more slender arms around her, the magnificent
naked body pressed to her, screaming in ecstasy ...
Athan repressed thoughts, closing the hand around the bag.
Kept walking, with the biting wind around.
Inside.
Marisa was packing. One was ready. She had made on
another continent, in another life. The suitcase that was setting
now was a new acquisition ... one that bought that morning, the
nearest store selling luggage. Methodically, without thinking, open
drawers, took in clothes and folded them in the suitcase. After the
drawers were empty, she moved to the wardrobe, doing the same
with content there.

There were other things besides clothes, but could follow

later. She would box and send the mail. As souvenirs, books, CDs
had acquired during his time in London.
Everything else would be in the apartment ... kitchen
utensils, furniture, bedding and bath. Marisa would take only your
clothes and personal belongings.
And memories.
I could not get rid of them. They were stuck inside your
head. With a glue that gnawed like acid.
But they were false memories. All of them. False because
they had never happened. Because man in the memories was not
the man she thought he was.
A lump formed in his throat.For more caution that had had
about what meant to Athan, believed to have been at least a
romantic interlude for him ... someone he had experienced
moments of passion in the idyllic Caribbean island, even if their
relationship was transitory. However, not even this had been.
A lie ... all just a lie. From the moment he asked her to hold
the open elevator doors. A frame. Controlled, manipulated. False
from the first moment. For the sole purpose of taking her to the
point she was now ... cut Ian's life.
Because there was no return ... Marisa knew. I could never
be part of Ian's life now. Not even the fragile and unsure of what
had been a day.
His wife is the sister of Athan ... Ian is coined it ...
She never would have suspected that. And of course, Ian
had not considered necessary for Marisa knew that the brother of
the wife was Athan Teodarkis, because that would mean nothing
to her.
But it did not matter. No matter who had known and who
had not known what she was and who she was.
All that mattered now was that Athan Teodarkis, brother of
Ian's wife, knew about her, knew what she was for Ian.
Anguish involved.
Why Athan not confronted me directly? That was all he
needed to do. If he knew about me and Ian, could have threatened
to expose me. Why did all that scheme?
The answer was clear and brutal. The method chosen Athan
was more effective.
He had been right about that. She was out of Ian's life now
... and would be out. Nothing was now possible. Absolutely nothing
...
Methodically, Marisa continued packing a suitcase.
The intercom on the table Athan played repeatedly, and the
voice of his secretary, when she spoke, it sounded apologetic:

- Kyrios Teodarkis ... sorry! The Kyria Eva's husband insists

on talking to you. I told him that you had a meeting in ten minutes,
but ...
- Okay - interrupted Athan. - I will receive it. - He expected it.
Ian Randall would not give up so easily to your desired lover.
Who give up Marisa Milburne? A woman so beautiful, so
fiery.
Family guillotine cut your thoughts. A guillotine that was very
much in use these days. Cutting so many thoughts, so many
memories. But he did not allow any of them. As not allow his weak
brother and unfaithful continued tempted by forbidden fruit.
I had to give it up ... then Ian will have to do the same!
His face still reflected his thoughts revolt, when Ian entered
the room. He looked nervous, and went straight to the point:
- Athan ... what is it all about? Neil Mackay says the order
came from you, but I do not understand why. Why do you want me
in Athens?
Athan leaned back. It seemed undisturbed by the explosion.
- It is time for a change. And that's a promotion, Ian ... you're
not happy?
- Now you do not want to promote me - Ian replied
incredulously. - That's about Eve, right? Do you think she'll be
happy to return to Athens.
Athan stared at him.
- Eve's happiness is more important than anything to me.
Never forget that.- He paused, and in the next sentence, made
sure to send a message to another man. - After all, was to make
her happy that I allowed Eva to marry you.
His brother blushed.
- And you never forgave me for having married her, right?
- As long as you do not hurt or not to bother, I tolerate the
....
He watched coldly as the color drained from the beautiful
face his brother. The face of a man who helped him get what he
wanted in life ... smiling, charming, selfish, spoiled. He charmed
Eve, courted her, and had persuaded her to be his wife.
And had proved unfaithful two years after marriage.
Silently, Athan cursed his brother. Cursed the old intimacy
between their families. Sheila Randall practically had adopted Eve,
when her sister was a teenager. Cursed the son of Sheila for
having approached the impressionable and vulnerable Eva, who
had fallen in love so easily by charming blond.
Ian cursed for having used his charm to even harm another
woman ... Marisa ...
- You ... tolerate me? - The voice of Ian interrupted his
thoughts. - How much generosity on their part, Athan. - Now, there

was something different in his voice, which made Athan narrow

eyes. - But perhaps I'm tired of your tolerance. Tired of your
generosity. Tired of hearing people saying that, being coined
Athan Teodarkis, it's no wonder that I have a position on the board.
No wonder I was sent to the West Coast, with instructions to take a
vacation in Hawaii, to keep my wife happy ... the sister of my head.
- He took a step forward. - Maybe it's time I told you I can live
without tolerance, without your generosity!
Athan stared angrily.
- And maybe - his voice sounded like a whip, all civility
disappearing now - you do exactly as I say. Or shall I tell Eve
about Marisa Milburne?
Ian Randall froze. Before the eyes of Athan, the other man's
face paled.
- How do you know about Marisa? - Demanded it.
Athan spread his hands on the table.
- Do not take me for a fool. You installed in an apartment in
Holland Park.
- You bastard - exploded Ian. - You spied on me.
- Like I said ... I do not take a fool. - The Athan's tone was
threatening.
- And you would be really willing to tell Eve about her? - Ian
challenged.
The Athan hard gaze never left the face of his brother.
- I will not need to do that. Marisa Milburne is no longer in
her apartment.
- What?
- You heard me. She left. - He paused. - Presumably, she
found another rich lover to seduce ...?
He saw Ian's face freeze again. But this time, there was
something in that frozen look Athan could not identify. Then slowly,
as if the ice was melting, his brother turned and walked toward the
door. To reach it, turned back. His face was like marble.
- You have my letter of resignation on his desk tomorrow
morning.
Then he was gone.
Athan almost followed. Almost went to grab her shoulders
and shake him like the rat he was. But would not mess your hands
with this man. As for the threat of dismissal ... Ian would never do
that. The position he had in the firm was too prestigious. And if he
tried to step down and escape the scrutiny of Athan, Eva protest.
She would not want a bad atmosphere between her husband and
his brother.
Athan sighed. Let Ian extravasasse anger. To do whatever
he wanted. That go to hell!

Furious, he turned in his chair, his stormy eyes,

unforgivable. If the philandering husband of Eva had a morale
drop, Marisa Milburne would not be chasing your thoughts now.
Filling your memory. Tormenting him.
Crazy-the desire, even from a distance. Athan tried hard to
repress the memories, because there was nothing he could do
about it. Had to accept the facts. Is decided by a strategy that
would remove her unfaithful woman coined the charmed, and now
needed to accept the consequences of such a strategy.
But I did not think it would.
Here was the problem. He never imagined he would feel
that way.
Betrayed. That was the word. Betrayed by a woman who
had been not only easy to seduce, but ... memorable.
Unforgettable in so many ways. All of them amazing.
But he had into that situation with eyes wide open,
determined, their planned and executed strategy, flawless. Fulfilled
its mission. That should be the end of history. It was ... for Marisa
and Ian. But not for him.
I still want to, and do not want the story to end. I want to
have it again.
I can not.And so simple and brutal. I seduced her to get her
out of Ian ... not for myself. This was never about Marisa, but only
about Eve.
Moody, he looked ahead, not seeing his luxurious office, but
the silver beach, swaying palm trees, turquoise sea. And Marisa.
Marisa ever.
Tormenting him.
Slowly, Marisa got off the taxi and paid the driver. It was an
exorbitant amount, and its pre-Ian days she would never have
dreamed of taking a taxi from the train station, about thirty miles
away. Would have expected by local bus, passing only four times
a day, then lowered in the village and walked the remaining
distance to the cottage. But now he could afford a taxi from the
station ... all thanks to Ian.
But you should not think of Ian. Not now.Ian belonged to a
world that Marisa had never been part ... not even the end of this
world, where she had clung. Athan Teodarkis had caused her to let
your useless grip on such ends. She should be grateful ... grateful
that he had shown him, brutally, that it did not belong to that world.
Marisa looked around when the cab pulled away and out of
sight. She shivered.Winter continued, and the air was humid,
while the dusk lost its light, announcing the end of the day. Ahead,
his cottage seemed abandoned and destroyed. A tile had come
loose, and water dripped from a leak. The garden was drenched,
and the path to the door, muddy.

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.

He deceived me right from the start ... lied to me with words

and actions.
Smiling while lying. Kissing her while lying. Making love to
her while lying.
Marisa rose with a start, as if to banish distressing thoughts
from his head. Nothing could change what had happened. It was
as if she had swallowed a snake ... a poisonous snake, which was
now injecting poison in his blood.
Angry, crossed the small hallway to the front door, taking
your bags and up the stairs to his old chipped room. It was
freezing upstairs, and the musty smell was stronger. But why
would she care? Why care about anything?
He can go to hell! Go to hell and stay there!
Hate to come, as powerful as the poison in his veins ...
looking for a single target ... Athan Teodarkis. The man who had
left her in that state. That led to paradise ... and then crushed into
the ground.

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:

- I think he felt a little overwhelmed, Eva is natural that he

wants to try his wings, alone ... prove his own courage.. Perhaps,
even received an irrefutable offer. After all, a job in Business
Teodarkis made Ian a very employable man.
His efforts to placate his sister, to assure her that the
dismissal of the husband was not a bad thing, seemed to be
working.
- Well, I suppose that's true - murmured Eve, calmer. - But I
feared that he had resigned for fighting with you. You know Ian
respects, Athan. - Her voice sounded sad. - I just want you two to
get along.
Athan said nothing. There were things that could not lie.
Like the fact that nothing would "get along" with the traitor who was
Ian Randall.
As for what the man would do now ... Athan had no idea. He
could not believe he had said to his sister, about Ian be highly
employable. Did you know that others assumed that the post
prestigious Ian Randall in Teodarkis companies was due to the
fact that he coined Athan. He could not have a position like that on
the market. Ian could have blown up in his office, but the reality
soon would reconsider. Athan smiled. Feel happy to see Iar
crawling to get your job back.
He gave an exasperated sigh. And it would have to return
him the post ... because otherwise, Eva would be upset.
Meanwhile ... well, Ian Randall could stay out of your way and do
whatever he wanted.
With one exception.
He did not come close to Marisa Milburne.
Athan not think Ian would try now that he was aware that his
brother knew about it, but did not intend to take risks. On the other
hand, seek employment may keep the mind of Ian away from its
intended lover, at least for now.
He sighed.
I need to forget her, not allowing me to continue thinking of
Marisa and time spent together. It'S Over. She is out of the life of
Ian ... and mine.
Forever.
But one thing was sort yourself to forget Marisa, quite
another to achieve this. He looked at the horizon of Athens. Where
she would be now ?, found himself thinking.
She had left London, the apartment Ian Randall had paid,
and was gone. That was all that mattered ... the fact Marisa
disappeared. Disappeared just as quickly that appear. She had left
London? Or had gone to live somewhere else in the city?
Find another man? Another lover?
A tantalizing image came to mind.

Marisa in the arms of another man ... in bed with another

man ...
Angry, he crossed to the liquor cabinet, opening the door.
Maybe a drink would help banish the image of your head, giving
you the peace he sought.
I need another woman.
The only way to get Marisa your thoughts would be
replacing it with another, he thought. Okay, so how about starting
immediately? Could fill every night with a busy social life if he
wanted ... and this time, it seemed like a good idea. Much better
than getting drunk.
Closing the cabinet doors, Athan left the room.
An hour later, dressed in a formal suit, he was in a crowded
hall of parties, wondering if needed to see a psychiatrist. At least
three women, all stunning, competed for his attention, and he was
not interested in any of them. Or any other party of women. Even
after the second glass of champagne.
Restless, looked around, praying that someone,
somewhere, awaken your interest. But his gaze swept the women
dispassionately, and he felt nothing.
- In the Caribbean ...
A fragment of the conversation led him back to reality. One
of the women, a voluptuous brunette was talking, it seemed, over a
proposed cruise. She made small breaks, inviting him to say
something.
But Athan was not seeing it ...
Marisa was seeing curved at his side, the palanquin shelter
from the sun style, in front of their hut, looking at the beach, having
a drink while they watched the sunset. The body so soft, so warm,
nestled against his ...
His mouth brushed her face. She turned to face her,
captured her lips in a searing kiss, letting him throw it on the soft
surface ...
- What do you think?
The cheerful voice woke him up, forcing him to focus the
eyes, the mind.
- A cruise around the Caribbean is a good idea? Or is it
better to stay on dry land?
Athan gave a distracted smile.
- I guess it depends if you get sick or not at sea - he replied.
- Oh, I get horribly sick - contributed one of the other
women, turning his eyes to Athan. - There are so many beautiful
islands. What do you recommend? St Bart's? Martinique?
Barbados ... although this is too popular now.

He said anything. His thoughts were far away, across the

ocean, the only Caribbean island with which cared. St Cecile. The
one containing all your Marisa souvenirs.
I want her back.
The words formed in his head before he could stop them.
Powerful and undeniable.
Marisa wanted back. It was that simple.
I do not care who she is ... what is for Ian ... why I did what I
did. Just want her back. I do not care how much it is impossible.
He finally admitted the truth. The truth that had been trying
to deny since leaving her apartment, and told him that everything
between them was a frame ... a lie.
However, Athan could no longer deny. Marisa wanted back.
But that's impossible. Out of the question.
Needed to get that out of your head. Get her head. No
matter what. He looked back at the group of women surrounding
him. He had gone there that night with the specific purpose of
finding a woman to take off his head that he could not have. But
the problem was he did not want any of them.
Marisa was the only woman he wanted.
With an accusatory sigh, before his own weakness, Athan
joined the conversation again. It was not fault of those women he
did not want them. He owed them at least, courtesy and attention.
Somehow, endured the rest of the night, until he felt he
could say goodbye the hosts and go. Back at his apartment, happy
to be in her own home finally came out on the porch. Although it
was still chilly, winter was over. Spring logo bless the land, and
then would come the summer Aegean. For now, he gave the
welcome to the cold, while looking at the skyline in Athens and
pondered his dilemma.
I wanted a woman who was impossible to have. Impossible,
because it would harm his family, would endanger the fragile
marriage of his sister. Have anything else to do with the woman
who almost destroyed him was unthinkable.
However, when he tried to divert his attention to another
woman, any woman, discovered that it was also impossible.
There was thus a single solution. One that does not
attracted him one bit.
Celibacy.
Abstinence.
Athan breath. It would be difficult, but that was his only
option right now. Somehow, I needed to exorcise the influences
that Marisa Milburne had on him, and live like a monk was his only
effective method. And what need to do to ensure that achieve this
kind of "cleansing" was refusing to think of it, remember it, desire
it. Fill your head with other things.

Work being the main one.

He looked at the old building of the Acropolis, crowned with
the ruins of the Parthenon. The temple of Athena. The patron of
Athens. A virgin goddess. The goddess of wisdom and courage
He would need these two qualities in large quantities, from
now on.
Marisa watched the dark blue car following narrow road
from the cottage toward the village. The road ahead would lead to
Devon before forking the highway leading to London. His heart
was heavy, but she had done the right thing ... knew he had done.
Ian begged her, but she had remained firm ... as much as it
had cost him.
I had to do it ... I had to convince him that I can not be part
of his life. Not now ... not ever.
Ian arrived, despite all the Marisa supplication, by text
message and phone, so he was not. He was puzzled that she had
moved from London apartment and begged for her to reconsider,
change his mind ... back.
But of course Marisa could not.
Would not return. Athan Teodarkis made that impossible.
Unthinkable.
Back to his old home, his old life, was the only thing
possible. There, at least, she could hide. Everything and everyone.
The insistence of Ian in confronting her there had been difficult, but
Marisa learned that it must be done in order to convince him that
she had taken its decision and would not go back. So now he was
gone, leaving the knowledge that she could not tell what his
brother had done burning inside like acid.
As he watched Ian's car disappear around a curve,
Marisa closed her eyes, feeling a kind of relief at his
departure, which contrasted with the pain of seeing him get out of
his life. She felt suffocated by all the emotion involved. On impulse,
went back into the cottage, he changed his shoes for old boots
high-tops, took a rubber sleeve, chalet keys and headed out the
door.
A path led from the garden to the last fields of the marsh,
then opened the very extent of land covered with swamps. It was a
cloudy day, with isolated showers. But time did not matter ... just
get out of the cottage. This was a family walk ... she had made
hundreds of times in his youth. Sometimes with his mother,
sometimes alone. A walk that always brought her emotional relief.
There was something about the area of the marshes, over fields,
directly under heaven, that opened, releasing the feelings and
emotions that oppressed ... whatever they might be.

And now he was walking there again by infertile land where

only Heather and leguminous plants bloomed, heading toward the
granite outcrop loomed on the horizon.
It took an hour of light walk to get there, and Marisa was out
of shape, after all his time in London, but came finally and found
his familiar corner between the stones, sitting in an extension of
granite, looking at the vast expanse of marshes below. The west
wind blew in his face. Rain mixed in the wind, but their faces were
already wet ... wet with tears.
Tears through so much. For his mother, who had been
deprived of love and happiness he had sought, and had led a life
without money and unsatisfactory, as had hoped more.
Just like me ... so little time ago.
But such hopes were crushed and brutally exposed by the
foolish they were.
I should know that could never be part of Ian's life ... that
would never be accepted, tolerated.
Marisa looked at the landscape before him. Her mother had
warned ... warned about the world she sought ... but Marisa did not
believe in her words, not wanted to believe. His mother was also
injured, expelled and rejected, and therefore sought refuge there in
that lonely place, accepting a modest and solitary life rather than
the life you always dreamed of.
His mother's hopes were cruelly destroyed.
Just as Marisa, now.
His eyes darkened. She had days now to try to accept what
Athan done to him ... to join the two totally different people he
seemed to accept that the man she thought know, the man who
had come to trust, who had given had not been any of that.
Cruel. Brutal. Lethal.
This was the real Athan Teodarkis. It was so needed Marisa
see it.
Regardless of dreams coming of night, deceiving her.
Regardless of the memories that haunted her.
She looked up at the rain. His hair was plastered to the
head, but she did not care. She was pleased by the punitive
elements reaching it. Deserved them.
I was a fool ... a fool who fell in love with a man who was
only facade ...
Just as her mother had done.
The perception did Marisa gasp. She closed her eyes,
swaying with the ugly truth and accusing it. The pain of recognition
tore it.
Her mother had been foolish once, hoping that your dreams
come true ... but deposited their hopes in a man who had made a
fool of.

As Athan made a fool of me ...

The last dark cloud passed over his head, and suddenly the
sun bathed it. A pale and weak sun.
Not like the Caribbean sun, beating on my bare shoulders
like a physical force, warming my body as I lie on a lounger, talking
to Athan, lying next to me. Infiltrating the windows when we gather
us in our cabin after lunch, to make love ...
The pain returned, but Marisa choked her. Choked her by
force of will, the power of shame to have fallen into a cruel trap.
Because regardless of what was right or wrong, he had lied to him
from the beginning, and nothing, absolutely nothing about Athan
had been true.
Marisa rose down from his position on the rocks and
jumping into the wet ground. He paused to look at the open area of
the swamp. A hill, a few meters away, he could see the outline of
low stone walls, almost destroyed by heat and time. It was a
village of the Bronze Age, and a familiar landscape for her.
Now, as he looked there, thought of the people who once,
long ago, had built their lives there. They had loved, lived, worked
and died, every little life so important to its owner as his life was for
her. However, all that remained of them were some rocks.
My life will be like one day. Not even leaving a shadow on
the ground. So what does it matter if I feel hurt, humiliated or
distressed? Soon, the pain I feel will ... soon, I will not feel
anything.
That had been true to his mother. Come a time when the
man who had treated her so badly lost the power to hurt her.
I will make it true for me, too. I have to make.
Slowly, Marisa began to return to the chalet. The sun
remained weak and pale, but it was better than rain. The smell of
spring could already be felt in the air. The winter almost over.
All she needed was time. Time to forget it, to move on, to
build a new life. What life is that Marisa did not know ... could not
even imagine. When he left the cottage to go to London, thought
that his life was just starting ... now he was back to his old life, no
prospects in sight.
But I'll find one. And I can be strong ... I have to be strong!
Resolution filled her as she walked. The sun was lower in
the sky now, and Marisa wanted to get to the cottage before
nightfall. But when rounded the last corner of the narrow road,
stopped abruptly.
A car was parked in front of the cottage. For a moment, she
thought she could be Ian, returning, despite his refusal to return to
London with him, but then realized it was another brand of car.
And another color. But it was not until the driver opened the door
Marisa realized who had gone to visit her ...

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.

She would hear what he had to say - another warning for

her to stay away from Ian's life, no doubt - then turn him away.
Marisa went into the kitchen, feeling relieved by the hot
woodstove. Taking the wet cover, hung it on the back of one of the
chairs and put more wood on the fire. Then filled the kettle and
waited for the water to boil. The family duties gave him something
to do while your brain trying to assimilate the bizarre fact that
Athan Teodarkis was sitting in the kitchen of the cottage which had
been a refuge for his mother, after she ruined the happiness.
His gaze went to the man sitting at the table, which had the
ability to make her melt with a single touch. A man whose smile left
her with giddy. What could bend a hand on his neck, lower the
mouth on hers and take it to a paradise that she never dreamed
there ...
A man who never - not even the bitter confession - told him
an honest word.
Marisa took a deep breath.
- You said you had something to tell me. Well, ask and go.
Athan looked back at her. Been looking around, watching
the room, shocked to see how the place was poor.
No wonder it has been so tempted by Ian offered. Having
come from a place like this, the world of Ian for her must have
seemed luxurious beyond anything imagined that Marisa.
- So? - Pressed her, when he remained silent.
- You need money? - The question came out more directly
than Athan intended. Nor was this the question we wanted to ask
you ... but after seeing that ruined place, the offer had come out of
his mouth without thinking.
- What?
- Listen, I can see that there is a brutal difference between
their lifestyle in London and what you have here. So if you need
something to start, I can easily ...
He went no further. She slammed the mug was about to fill
with coffee on the wooden table.
- Do Not!I do not want your damn money! - The blue eyes
were like laser.
- It was an offer ... nothing more than that. - He had to
soften. - If Ian left her well provided, then you do not need anything
from me.
- You will be pleased to know - she said with false
sweetness - that Ian does not hold anymore.
- Yes, I am pleased to know - he agreed. - This is good ... as
he is about to become unemployed. - No - Athan held up a hand to
silence her - I did not fire. He resigned. Ian did not tell you?
Marisa paled.
- No. But ... why.?

Athan said, holding his gaze on Marisa to assess her

reaction.
- He wants to cut the umbilical cord of me. Win its
independence. Reason - continued Athan, sarcastically - you
certainly will understand my concern for him have it sought. I do
not want him to think that he is free now to devote to you again.
- Well, he's not, right? - She replied.- You made sure of
that. How could I face him, knowing what his brother did to me?
- Really - agreed Athan. - So, Ian accepted that it can not
see her? You told you that?
- Yes - The monosyllable reply was devoid of emotion. But
her emotions flooded anyway ... like an underground river, cutting
rocks and obstacles in your mind. Obstacles she had to keep it in
place ...
- Great.
He seemed satisfied. But something in the voice of Athan
alarmed her. It was not the satisfaction of a man who got rid of an
unwanted family problem.
- In that case ... - He looked at her intently. - In this case, I
have something else to tell you.
Marisa stared at him. Her heart began to race. But she did
not want to see what he was seeing in his eyes.
It is very close. The kitchen is very small. I can not breathe
...
Athan was still sitting at the table, but their presence
dominated the room ... dominated his senses, his vision. She tried
to think clearly, but could not. His entire focus was on it, and that
underground river of emotions inside was trying to rise to the
surface ...
Then he said:
- I want you back.
The words fell in the space between them. The space that
soon there would be more between them.
Because it was very clear in the mind of Athan, now. Crystal
clear. It had taken up this morning to crystallize ... what happened
as soon as the phone had rung and he heard that Ian Randall was
going to Devon.
At that moment, he heard with an emotion that had shaken
him to the core that would never allow Ian, or any other man, took
off his Marisa. That, no matter what, he would have back.
Then allowed the instinct take over. A domineering instinct
that had brought him out of his office in London, led him to his car,
on the road and to the west.
And now he was there ... and Marisa, and that was all he
wanted. Everything would have.
No one and nothing would stop him. Not anymore ...

- You're out of Ian's life now, and that's what I had to

achieve. - He looked at her, speaking the words he knew he
needed to talk. - I did not like what I did, Marisa, but I had to do it.
Family is everything ... and I needed to protect my sister threat you
meant to her. You can not be in the life of Ian. But you accepted it,
however drastic that my method has been.
He raised his hand again, before she could stop it, knowing
that come to the main part of their submissions.
- Now we're both free. Free to do what I wanted to do from
the time I left in your apartment, on our return.
He got up, crossed the room, closing the space between the
two.
He reached out, circling it in Marisa's neck. The damp
strands were like silk on your toes. The smell of her body was like
incense. The blush on beautiful faces, like roses. The half-open
mouth as honey waiting to be proven ... claimed ...
- This - he said, before lowering his head and taking her
mouth in a ravenous kiss.
Marisa dreamed with the kisses of Athan, longed for them,
like an addiction ... and now it was happening. Then and there ...
Happiness. Sweet and absolute happiness.
He was away from his mouth now, but his hands were still in
his head, body pressed to his eyes studying her intently.
- I felt you so much - he whispered hoarsely. - I can not be
without you. And now, with you separate Ian, I realize I do not
need to be! I am free to take it back ... to have it the way it had
before.
The mouth of Athan started down again.
But Marisa turned away abruptly. Around the table, placing
the mobile between them. His blue eyes were wide.
- Are you crazy? - She swallowed. - Are you crazy?Repeated, more loudly now. Stronger.
His mind was spinning. Just as your body. His senses were
on fire. But now a bucket of cold water had been thrown over
them, putting out the fire. The happiness felt during the kiss turned
to anger.
- You lied to me from beginning to end! Lied and
manipulated me and made me an idiot. How can you think that I
just take him back? After all to me? I'd have to be crazy to do that.
- She took a shaky breath. - Go away!Get out of here! I did what
you wanted ... Ian gave up. Therefore, you have no right to come
here and dare to tell me these things.
If he was shaken by her explosion, not shown.
- Are you mad at me ... is understandable - began Athan. But ...

- Go away!- Marisa gripped the edge of the table. - I never

want to see it. Never want to have anything to do with you.
- Liar - accused him. - You can not deny. It is impossible for
you, Marisa ... as for me ... deny the effect we have on each other.
Do not think I abhor the fact that he needed to trick her? I would
love for you had never had anything to do with my brother in law. I
had met in other circumstances. Because the effect you have on
me would have been the same.
He paused, looking at her with such sincerity that she would
have to be heartless not to recognize.
- I may have lied about why I used to meet her on my way ...
however, nothing was lie. I never lied to you about my body.
Marisa took a deep breath, her nails digging into the wood
of the table.
- Go! - She said.- I want you to go away. - I could not
handle it ... just could not. Since he came down the car, she was
shivering inside. But what ... what Athan was saying ... proposing.
- Marisa ... listen to me.
His voice was urgent. She could not bear it. I could not
stand it there, speaking those things ... asking you those things.
Took another deep breath, interrupting him:
- Do Not!There is nothing in the world that would make me
consider, even for a second, what you're proposing me! As thought
that I would consider? After all you did for me ... told me.
Athan nodded. Damn, that was not working. He needed to
reverse the situation ... somehow. Had driven there, furious
because Ian had dared to look for it again, consumed with rage by
his brother-even more consumed by an emotion that knew I had to
name ... could no longer deny.
Jealousy. Violent jealousy. Ian.
He will not have it. Never again! She is mine ... and I want
her back.
That was the clear message that had to face as directed
with speed there. He needed to get to it, so that Ian could not
persuade her to return to him.
So that he could persuade her to accept him back.
- Do you think I wanted to do what I did? - Demanded
Athan. - But it's done ... over.
The blue eyes were cold.
- Yes, that's right. It's over. And I do not mean Ian ... but
you. So, as I asked ... go away.
- You do not really want me to go away. - The Athan tone
was incredulous. - If you expect me to apologize for what I did, so I
can not. You should not have gotten involved with my brother in
law, and nothing can change that. But, having seen where you
come from, the type of life she led, I can understand his temptation

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.

Marisa stood there, motionless. His eyes twinkled. Then

tears started to stream down their cheeks.
Along the narrow road, Athan driving dangerously ...
impulsively fast. Needed to gain the maximum possible distance of
Marisa. Had driven there, moved by a demon which had failed to
get rid of. By the fear that she had accepted Ian Randall back. A
demon had bitten with the poison of jealousy.
Now, a different demon moved. Much worse than the first.
He wanted ... and she did not take him back.
I lost.
The words fell like stones in his head. Stones that crushed
your thoughts, your emotions.
All around him, pressed against the windows, it was dark.
Dark outside.
Darkness inside.
He drove into the winter night.

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

place he knew so well, surrounded by nature, the wild landscape

of marshes, the silent fields.
But the problem was that nothing seemed to work. Surely,
by now, it should already be able to use the brain to control your
heart, right?
Marisa froze. With a part of his brain, he saw the robin
approach. With bright eyes.
Predator.
But the rest of his brain did not see him. He saw the garden,
the sun or the beds.
The words had sounded unconsciously in your head back.
Surely, by now, it should already be able to use the brain to
control your heart, right?
No !, your rational side denied. She had not wanted to say
that. Panic filled her, closing her throat.
It is my heart ... this has nothing to do with my heart.
Because if you had ...
Before his eyes, the linnet attacked. His beak was tucked
into the damp earth, and, triumphantly, he captured the worm she
tried to hide it. Flapping wings, the bird disappeared, his prey
consumed.
It is my heart. I do not love. I do not love!
- Global Economy. Fiscal policy ... employment levels ...
investments ...
Athan let the words wandered on his head. He was not
listening. Pretended to be ... anything else would be rude. But the
speaker at the conference, a famous economist, was talking for
what seemed an eternity. And Athan had heard everything ...
several times now. Today was the third day of the conference, and
he had been there from the beginning.
The main objective of the conference was to pass the time.
Time he would have spent thinking.
Obsessed with her.
Because he had lost. Pure and simple.
Of devastating way.
How it happened? As he had been able to screw it up? But
Athan know why ... just did not like to accept that. He had rushed,
going to that decadent hole where she had put, taken by a rabid
jealousy, because Ian was daring to try to get back together with
her, and had hit a stone wall. The firm Marisa's refusal to have
anything more to do with him.
Frustration warred with self-punishment. Frustration usually
won ... frustration that would not get what he wanted so much ...
but, from time to time, he could be autocastigar.
You really thought that, having been manipulated and
deceived, Marisa would run into his arms again?

Of course she would not. Of course it would send him away

...
His eyes burned as he reproached.
You never had a chance to get it back. Not after what he did
to her.
Then his expression hardened. Well, Marisa had no right to
feel used. It was she who had welcomed the attention of a married
man. That's what Athan had to remember. Then another thought
entered his consciousness ... that dilapidated cottage where she
lived, evidence of a miserable past, which would mean that the
attention of Ian would have been very tempting for her. No wonder
that a charming womanizer and his brother had managed to
impress her. Marisa enchanted with the superficial charm of Ian,
and made a blind eye to the covenant that he wore.
That's what Athan had to remember. It was what justified
what he had done to her.
However, another emotion wrapped it. What mattered
whether there was justification for what he had done? The fact was
that his action was destroying your chances of having it back.
Marisa had sent him away, and the Athan lost.
And all that was left was frustration.
Once emotion. One he was trying hard not to admit.
Because, in contrast, even more obsessive frustration was easier
to handle.
We were good together ... it worked. I do not know precisely
why, or how, but gave. It was easy to be with her ... natural.
Well, I screwed up ... and I can not stay here, complaining
because she does not want me, can I? Did what I did for the sake
of my sister, and now I have to accept the consequences.
That was a serious sermon, and Athan knew I had to give it
to yourself. But as he did so, he could hear another voice inside:
Save the wedding of her sister did you lose something that
never will recover ...
His eyes stared without seeing, the lecturer.
Its so cold face as a wind winter.
Marisa lowered the radio and tuned ears. It was a car
approaching. She frowned.It was the day of delivery of the market,
and there was no movement there, beyond the occasional heavy
tractors of the farms in the area. Dropping your paint roller and
down the chair on which he had been standing, painting the ceiling
of the room, went to the front door. Once there, an envelope was
placed in the mailbox. Opening the door, she saw the postman
coming into his truck and leaving. Marisa waved in
acknowledgment and took the envelope. Almost never received
correspondence, but the letter was familiar. A knot formed in his
stomach.

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:

- Eva ... I'll deal with it.

The hand Athan was like steel on her arm, dragging her out.
Away from the presence of his sister ... before the rascal of his
brother inflict the blow that boldly intended. Anger consumed him.
What the hell is he thinking ... to bring Marisa here? To
confront Eve with her?
That could only mean one thing ... the worst. Ian would tell
Eve that was driving ...
But not for Marisa Milburne ... not for her!
He led her to a deserted corridor, closing the dining room
door and leading her toward the elevator. His only thought was to
get her out of the hotel ... close to Eva.
Athan furiously pressed the elevator button and turned to
Marisa.
- His despicable bitch. How dare you? How dare you come
in here with Ian?
Marisa paled, trying to pull away from him, but it was
impossible. The big hand was like steel on his arm.
- I'm sorry! I knew I should not have come with Ian.
Athan shook it, enraged.
- So why did you come?
- Because we tired of this endless secret! - She exclaimed.Ian convinced me that we can not hide the truth. He refuses to
continue hiding. I will not be the dirty secret of it.
Athan released her arm, which fell loose on its side. She
stared at him. His face was like granite.
- Eva know about it or not does not change the fact that you
are the "dirty secret", is not it? - Accused him angrily. - And tell her
not make it less sordid.
Marisa closed her eyes.
- I know. And I know that leaving now will not fix anything.
She'll be wondering who I am, why Ian brought me here tonight.
So even if I leave now, it's too late ...
He swore in Greek.
- So there's only one thing to do ... just a way to hide it from
Eve.
He grabbed her arm again. His mind was working frantically,
trying to find a solution to save Eve that mess.
I thought Ian had given it up ... and all this time, he was
planning this.
Athan breath.
- I'll tell Eve that you are here because of me. Ian escorted
to the hotel for me, since I just arrived from Athens. I wanted to
introduce you to her - he finished, the words accusingly. - This
way, I can get Eva protect the sordid truth of his existence. After
all, it is better that you be my lover than her husband's lover her.

He tried to lead her back to the dining room ...

But Marisa did not move.
She was staring. There was no kind of emotion on her pretty
face. Then slowly, very slowly, she removed her fingers from his
arm and stepped back. Athan frowned. What game was she doing
now?
- Athan! Come back here!
He turned. Eva was next to the dining room door, calling
him. Ian was at her side. Marisa started to walk towards the
couple, the specific steps.
When they all entered the hall and closed the door Athan, a
sense of foreboding through him. This was going to happen. The
revelation of the "dirty secret" that he had so much work to hide
her sister. And all for nothing. For your sister was humiliated and
had heartbroken. Well, at least he would be there for her. Ready to
let her cry on his shoulder, after her husband abandoned her,
leaving with his mistress in the arm.
The lover I wanted for myself ...
But that would not happen. Everything was going to happen
was the destruction fragile wedding of her sister. Well, it was better
to end now than later. Better not to love than to let love destroy
you ...
He should know ...
Noted Marisa walk to his sister. Noted Ian give him a
reassuring smile.
Intimate.
He saw the puzzled expression on the face of her sister.
He was positioning himself next to Eva, opposite Ian.
Opposite to the woman who would steal the husband of his sister.
Should have felt hatred. Fury. By his sister. For yourself. But
all that was inside was an empty hole. His eyes went to Marisa.
She was so pale. So pale and so incredibly beautiful. She was
standing next to Ian. They were a cute couple ... both blond with
blue eyes, with their English complexions.
A knife appeared to stab his heart.
Not mine.Never mine. Never ...
- Eva ...
Ian's voice was low but resolute. Athan stood beside her
sister, waiting for the bomb being detonated.
Marisa could not find his eyes. Well, that was
understandable ...
- Eve ... - Ian repeated his wife's name ... stronger this time.
- I have something to tell you.
The puzzled look on Eve's face deepened.

- 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.

He gestured toward the table, and after a moment's

hesitation Eve was and took his place.
Marisa did the same. His body was very hard. She noted
Athan walk to the other side of the table and sit in front, while Ian
settled on the opposite side of his wife. As two couples seated for
dinner. As if a bomb had not just exploded in their midst.
- I do not know about you, but I would take a glass of wine Ian said trying, Marisa knew, keep the light climate.
He took the bottle of wine ice bucket, served four cups and
passed to others. Marisa took a sip.
Needed it.
When placed the bowl on the white towel, realized his hand
was shaking. Involuntarily, her eyes went to the man sitting before
him. His face was like marble ... revealing nothing.
Ian also took a sip of wine, before facing his wife started:
- Marisa is my half-sister. We have the same father. But the
mother of Marisa ... - He stopped.
Across the table, Marisa saw Athan hardening. For a brief
moment, they looked at each other, and she saw, in his dark eyes,
he knew exactly what would be said next.
And it should be said for it. It was not just that Ian told that.
- My mother ... - She swallowed hard, turning his gaze to
include Eva -. My mother was Ian's father lover.
Marisa looked down, unable to continue.
Eva said something in Greek. Even for untrained ears of
Marisa the sound of words was shocking.
Ian was talking again, resigned tone:
- You two know how he was. You, Eve, knows this well,
because of the long friendship with my mother. You know how it
supported my mother for many years of unhappiness. Even when
my father threatened the marriage of their parents, causing
problems. - He took another sip of wine. - Marisa's mother was not
his first lover, and certainly was not the last. But she was - he
stopped to hold Marisa hand - the one that made the terrible
mistake of falling in love with him.
Marisa said. He could not look at Eve ... let alone Athan.
- I do not I release. My mother knew that he was married.
But she told me that he always said that it was a marriage of
convenience for both preserve wealth and heritage, and that he
had not married for love. - Marisa looked up now, which were full
of pity for his foolish and blind mother. - She chose to believe him,
that persecuted incessantly because my mother had told him "no."
He was not a man used to hearing "no", so said what he
considered effective to take her to bed. Said the wife met another
man and asked divorce - Marisa continued. - When she gave in,
and then discovered she was pregnant, he did not want to know

anything. And, too late, my mother realized how stupid he had

been.
She sighed.
- He gave her a large sum of money ... enough to buy the
cottage where I grew up ... and then some. Forced my mother to
sign a document giving up all official claims for the child. My
mother was too devastated to refuse, and agreed to go out of his
life and keep silent. She moved to Devon and disappeared. I grew
up having no idea who he was ... just that it was "the great love of
her life" as my mother used to say. After she died, I came to
London trying to find it. But I had nothing, not even his name, and
a photograph that my mother holding ...
- That was how she found me - Ian interrupted. - Totally by
chance. Marisa took a job in a cleaning firm, and my office was
one of their contracts. One evening I was working late. She saw
me, stared at me ... and that's how we found ourselves.
- Of course - murmured Eve, comprising everything. - Ian is
the image of the father ... and presumably the picture was of a
man with his approximate age, right?
Marisa nodded.
- This is extraordinary - said Eva -. Do not have an idea that
you had a sister. - She turned to her brother. - Athan, imagine not
knowing of its existence ... would be horrible.
He did not answer. Then, abruptly, rose.
- Excuse me. I need ...
He stopped. There was nothing "needed" do except leave.
- Athan?
Eva's voice was confused, but he could do nothing. Could
only go away.
Without another word, he left the hall. How on autopilot,
walked into the hall elevators and pressed the button, wishing the
doors opened and let him escape. Get Away. Marisa.
And what he had done to her ...
Inside the private lounge, Eva was still staring, stunned, to
the empty place of his brother.
- What ...? - She looked at her husband, then to Marisa.
Began to speak, but Marisa interrupted:
- Excuse me ... I have to ... - She was unable to finish. He
stood up, grabbed her bag and left the room.
He could hear his half-brother calling her name forward, but
ignored it.
Outside, the hotel corridor was deserted.
Except for the high and strong figure near the elevator.
- Hang On!
Athan turned instantly frozen expression. Marisa walked up
to him. The anger that had kept imprisoned within, while he was

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

village of the Bronze Age, below. Someone was standing in the

middle of the place, which was not surrounded ... very little
damage was that walkers could cause the ruins so scarce.
At first, seeing the solitary figure of the distance was, she
paid no attention to the fact. On a hot day like this in the middle of
spring, walkers were common in that area. But when Marisa
followed the path that would go through the place, stopped. There
was something very familiar thing about the still figure.
He was walking toward him. Hands in his jacket pockets, the
wind ruffling his hair, narrow eyes from the sun.
In a kind of stupor, Marisa continued down the hill towards
the old village where once an entire community had lived, loved,
died ...
Now, not even their ghosts remained to haunt the sunlight.
He moved toward her, crossing his path. Waiting for her.
Marisa went to him. He said nothing.Did nothing. Just stood
there, hands on the hood pockets, his face a mask.
Like his.
- Ian told me you were back here. - The voice was low
Athan. Tense. - I gave you time. Dei time both of us. But now we
need to talk.
She looked at him.
- There is absolutely nothing to say.
Marisa was calm. Very quiet, considering the turmoil that
had been inside moments ago.
- You know that's not true - he disagreed.
- Well, what to say, then?
It was unreal ... unreal to be there, in a place where people
had once lived, loved and died, nothing but bones in the earth
now, they could no longer feel pain or emotions. Unreal be in such
a place and confront the man who motivated to go there.
- What is there to say? - Marisa demanded again. - You
thought I was Ian lover then seduced me so that I would forget, as
he returned to his wife ... his sister. Now, he discovered that I was
not lover Ian, after all. I'm his sister. And because I can not bear to
have any further contact with you, it means I can not have contact
Ian or Eve, so tell me about Eve proved a totally pointless
exercise. - She sighed, looking at him angrily. - That sums up why
there is nothing to be said about it?
The jaw stiffened him.
- No, and you know that does not summarize. This does not
begin to explain why we need to talk.
Athan grabbed her arm. She tried to move away from the
ring, but he led her into a stone wall and sat down to there,
bending down beside her. Marisa was still calm ... icily calm. It was
like being inside an iceberg, and it suited him at the time. Hoped

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

me ... wanted to take me from poverty to which my father

condemned my mother. She knew she should never have given to
my father. She knew it was her fault. I knew it was foolish to love
him. He knew he deserved what was it ... rejection. It was a
lesson, Mom taught me well - Marisa looked Athan. - Which is why
it was so unbearable realize that you thought that I related to a
married man. Which is why I was so angry the night that Ian told
Eve about me.
- You had every right to be angry - muttered Athan, the dark
voice. - I judged wrongly. I thought the worst of him.
She could hear the autorrecriminao in his voice and was
touched.
- I hated him for that! - Marisa exploded. - I thought I hated
him for what you did to me ... luring me deliberately. But when I
realized ... you thought I was a million times worse than a person
who was enjoying his brother's wealth and disrupting his family ...
oh, then I hated him a million times more than before. When I
played in your face which was my real relationship with Ian, it was
so good! Get that conviction expression on his face. And when I
slapped it was even better!
Marisa stood up, slipping his arm his touch. Standing there,
trembling with emotion, she shook in the wind.
Why had he gone there? To torment her again? For what?
It was over now. There was nothing more to be done, or
said. That situation was hopeless. But she knew she had to accept
that, in fact, was not the fault of Athan. Marisa turned to face him
again. He had not moved. Still there, watching her.
The expression was ... sad, she acknowledged.
Sighed.
- There is no need to discuss it ... there really is not. The
whole situation is chaotic. I can understand why you drew the
conclusion that you take. I can understand why he wanted to
protect his sister. You did what you thought best at the time. But
now ... now that everything was revealed, I can not have anything
to do with you, with Eva or Ian. I can not even see them again ...
understand that. What you did to me will always be present,
poisoning everything. - She stared at the dark eyes. - I can not
forget what you did ... I will never be able to forget.
For a long, unbearable moment, they looked at each other.
Caution Marisa did lower his head. He knew he should go
back home to the sanctuary of her cottage. But his legs were
suddenly heavy as lead.
Then, behind her, she heard movement. Hands touched his
shoulders lightly, then subsided.
- Me neither.

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.

- To get you back - he said. - To have her as you were back

then brief and precious we had ... a time that entranced me. And
tormented me. Tormented because I knew that this was just a
passing bubble ... a bubble that I would have to explode, brutally,
when I denounce.
Emotion shone in his eyes again, but it was a stormy
emotion now.
- I hated what I had to do ... I hated what I thought you were.
And when I followed her here, I saw where you lived, I understood
why Ian could have turned his head, diverting it from its path. - He
paused, then said what needed to be said: - Just like his father
turned his mother the way.
Marisa looked down. He could not answer. Athan answered
for her.
- We are human, we all, Marisa. Make mistakes. His mother
made hers. I made my ... judging you wrongly. Judging Ian
erroneously.
He paused and she went back to look at him. There was
sadness in her dark eyes again.
- We make mistakes, then pay for them. His mother paid for
it. I'll pay for mine. My payment ... will live without you. - He
sighed.- I will not press her styling why this payment will be dear to
me, but I can assure you that the price will be higher than I thought
possible. A price whose existence I did not know until you begin to
pay it.
Athan up a hand, as if to say goodbye to her.
- I will leave now, Marisa. I wish you all the best ... that's all I
can do, is not it? All you could want from me - He looked around
for the marshland sunlit, the blue sky above. A wild bird was
singing somewhere, as he lifted drafts. So dark eyes turned to her.
Looking at the last.
Athan felt his heart being stabbed when looked away and
started to walk away, leaving her behind.
Marisa watched him go. She watched him walk out of his
life.
There was a haze over the sun, which was strange because
there were no clouds in the blue sky. However, the fog was there,
obscuring his vision. She blinked, but the view did not clear.
Only the wind made her eyes sting.
Thoughts swirled in his head. Marisa could not make sense
of them, who seemed to fight inside and scream for space. Then
one ... just ... stopped others. He graduated in words inside your
head. She forced herself to listen to them, even while still there,
seeing Athan from your life ...
The words of Athan.

"We make mistakes. His mother made hers. I made my ...

"The words kept circling, bringing others in their wake:
What if I'm making my mistake now?
His mother had ruined his life, giving her love to a man who
had proved unworthy of such love, rather than send him away
before he could destroy it?
But what if my error is the opposite of that?
And if my mistake is giving up a man that I should never let
out of my life? A man I should grab and shake in my arms?
A man who would ... be ... an agony lose?
Their eyes focused on figure increasingly moved away. Her
breath caught in her lungs. Suddenly, it was impossible to breathe.
- Hang On!- The cry released his breath. - Athan! Hang On!
He stopped. Froze. So, while Marisa heart pumping madly,
he turned.
She did not speak, did not scream again. He had no
thoughts or words. He started walking, stumbling over the uneven
ground, at first, then finding the balance and running, running more
and more. The wind hit the fog that covered his eyes, blinding her,
but no matter. She knew where he was going. I knew with every
fiber of your being. He knew the only place I wanted to be.
Athan wrapped her in a hug when she reached him, taking
his feet off the ground and turning her into his arms. She was
crying, sobbing, but no matter ... nothing mattered. Nothing ever
cared ... just that.
Being in his arms.
Loving it.
Loving it so much, so much!
He was speaking his name. Again and again. Kissing her
hair, holding her tightly. Marisa was crying, then was laughing, and
the Athan was putting on the floor so she could feel the ground
under his feet again, but Marisa still held him so tight that they
could let him go ...
- Oh, my love ... my love!
Who had spoken ... she or he? No matter ... nothing
mattered but the happiness that flooded, love ...
So Athan was holding his face in his hands, watching her
intently.
All the sadness was gone.
Only love shone in the dark eyes.
And slowly, he lowered his mouth to hers and kissed her.
- Is this love - Athan said. - This is my love for you. After all
I've done it, that's why I can not regret. Because I won you. - He
took a deep breath. - I did not realize what it was ... what was
happening to me ... until I lost. I lost you, my love, again and again.
So many times. I lost when I spoke those cruel words, accusing

her. I lost when corroded by jealousy of Ian, I followed you here. I

wanted to take her back, like a spoiled child deprived of what he
wanted. I lost when you played the truth about herself on my face
at that dinner. And again, when you followed me to the elevator
and spilled his anger at what I thought about you. Lost you several
times. And with each loss was more clear what was happening. I
was in love with you.
Athan trembled, and, feeling his pain, Marisa hugged him
tighter.
- I was in love with you ... even as the lost ... again and
again.
She sobbed once, then kissed him to erase the pain
emanating from him.
- I was afraid to love him - confessed Marisa. - Very scared.
When I saw him, sometimes in St Cecile, looking at me when you
thought I could not see it, you looked so ... distant. I thought it was
because you knew I was falling in love, when only wanted some
passing thing would end when we return. That's what I thought
when you said you needed to talk to me. I prepared to hear that it
was over. Had the strength to bear it.
She paused.
- But when you accused me of that ... oh, God, I do not have
the strength to endure. I could not defend myself than I thought
you were accusing me. Because what I wanted was to be
accepted in my father's family, no longer being rejected by them.
But you made me see that it was impossible ... I was just a dirty
secret past the father of Ian ...
Athan groaned and slid his hands to her shoulders.
- I never would have charged only for that reason. Yes, Ian's
mother suffered ... but it was not your fault. Nothing was your fault.
Only mine.
She heard the self-accusation in his voice and hated that.
-. No I will not allow you to speak it. I will not let you ... or ... I
look back now. I let anger blind me ... blind me to the point of
rejecting it. - She suddenly grabbed. - Oh, I almost let you out of
my life. Never let me be so blind!
- Every time I look at me - Athan promised, rich and warm
voice - you will see my love for you. This will be your mirror, all the
time. A true mirror, I promise you.
Suddenly, Marisa's expression was troubled.
- It hurt so much to realize that all the time we spent in the
Caribbean had been ... false. When I believed it was real ...
- It was real! - Athan said vehemently. - That was my great
torment. Knowing that, were it not for Eve, so I thought I was doing
to save her marriage, I'd be enjoying those moments with you,
without a weight on my head. So I so arrogantly thought I could

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.

- The Athan and Marisa. And the true love triumph.

It was a gift that no one was able to challenge.