be serious, or youre looking for a new job. And he doesnt seem to think a little joy riding is too serious.'
'I do,' Cam said flatly. 'And since were not going to get any help from above, well have to stay tight on her, but not get in her way. Shes most likely to run if we crowd her.'
'I think everyone understands the plan,' he replied.
'See that they do.'
'Yes, maam.'
**********
At three p.m., Blair emerged from the apartment building and climbed into the back of the nondescript black car waiting at the curb for her. Cameron Roberts was inside. Blair was dressed for the gallery opening in a simple black dress that spoke of taste and understated elegance. The thin straps accentuated the toned muscles of her shoulders and arms, while the scooped neck revealed just a hint of cleavage. This was a pre-publicized event, and the presence of the secret service was expected. Blair noted that Agent Roberts looked well-attired for the gathering in a gray silk suit and monochromatic shirt, beautifully tailored and fashionably cut. This was one public servant who did not buy her clothes off the rack.
The guest list was a mixture of all the important art collectors in the city and quite a few of the artists as well. Cam had photos of all of them, and invitations would be required for admission to the Soho gallery. Nevertheless, this was the most dangerous situation for Blair - a public function, advertised in advance. At the very least, there would be a curious crowd gathered outside. Cam planned on being inside with two other agents, while the second team waited in the car.
'Good afternoon, Ms. Powell,' Cam remarked as they traveled.
'Agent Roberts, we meet again. Are you to be my date today?' she asked mildly.
'I was planning on coming in after you were inside. Its not the best idea for me to be too easily identified. For those times wed prefer none of us be recognized.'
Blair laughed with just a hint of bitterness. 'Times like last night, you mean. When it might be embarrassing.'
'For those times when you might like as much privacy as possible,' Cam amended quietly.
Blair stared at her. 'Youd like me to think you care?'
Cam shrugged lightly, a small smile flickering at the corner of her mouth. 'The happier you are, the happier Im going to be.'
Blair laughed again, this time with no restraint. 'You are honest at least, although Im not sure how far that will get you.'
'Its the only card I have to play,' Cam said seriously.
Blair surveyed her coolly. 'Your approach is certainly novel. Im used to strong-armed tactics - 'behave or else'. No one has tried the humble 'Im just here to look after you' routine before. I suppose you think Ill fall for that and suddenly bare my - soulfor you?'
Her tone was mockingly suggestive, and her frank survey of Cams body left little question of her intent. She shifted slightly on the leather seat, baring an expanse of smooth, well-muscled thigh.
Cam smiled, unperturbed. No matter how attractive Blair Powell was, and she was damned attractive, Cam had no intention of being sidetracked. 'If I can do my job without getting in your way, I will. As much as that is possible, Ill see that that happens. Therell be times when its impossible. Ill apologize in advance for that.'
'But you wont bend the rules - not even as a favor?' Blair questioned softly, her tone heavy with innuendo.
'No,' Cam stated flatly. She bent her head slightly as a voice in her ear appraised her of their location. Looking up she caught the surprise in Blairs eyes before her elegant features set into an expression of arrogant dismissal.
'Were almost there,' Cam informed her. 'One of the agents will walk you in.'
'I know the drill,' Blair snapped, irritated at the agents implacable demeanor. Maybe she was wrong; maybe Roberts was straight after all. But the way she had looked in the bar! God, she was so hot, and seemed so comfortable there. Knowing Cam was watching from across the room while the stranger in leather took her pleasure from Blairs body had been an incredible turn on for her. More exciting than anything the woman against her was doing. She wanted Cam to feel as unsettled as she had been the night before. So far, she hadnt been able to crack the agent's cool exterior. If she couldnt unbalance her in some way, it was going to be very difficult to elude her and her watch dogs.
'Enjoy the opening,' Cam said quietly as Blair slid from the limo. Blair did not grace her with a response.
**********
Diane greeted her with an affectionate hug, whispering softly, 'Hey, darlin - I called you all last evening. Out on the prowl?'
Blair shrugged imperceptibly, aware of the reporters nearby. 'For a while.'
They moved away from the crowd milling around the small bar which offered the obligatory wine and cheese. Blair smiled at the people she knew as well as those she didnt. She had so much practice at this she barely registered the faces any longer.
'Get lucky?' Diane probed with the slightest edge in her voice. They had known each other for years, since prep school at Choate, where they had been lovers briefly as teenagers. There had been more than one time Diane wished they still were. There were moments when she caught sight of Blair unexpectedly and her breath would catch with sudden desire. Blair was beautiful, talented, and --most attractively-- emotionally remote. Just the kind of challenge Diane liked in her women. When she looked at the cool, self-contained woman beside her, she barely remembered the eager, open young girl with whom she had first shared love and simple unbridled sexual pleasure. She hadnt caught a glimpse of her in years.
Blairs smile was brittle. 'Depends on how you define that. I enjoyed her.'
