“I want to know everything about you. I’m afraid you’ve cast a spell over me, freeing me from a life of habitual boredom. I hope you’re feeling the undercurrents too.”
“No – I mean, maybe. But, like you said, you don’t know me. I could be a druggie or a liar or a horrible friend to your niece.”
“Chrissy? She loves you, and to my knowledge, has spoken highly of the woman who saved her from a life on the streets. Your last visit opened my eyes to your finer qualities, and I have no words to describe the feelings you have awakened in me during my time with you now.”
Melanie jumped to her feet, unable to take any more. “I’ve been dishonest. While we’ve openly suspected as to your family’s involvement in Chrissy’s disappearance, I’ve neglected to tell you that my family is involved, as well.”
Trevor raised his eyebrows and put down his glass.
“It’s my brother, Drew. Somehow, he knew I was in danger that night, and if not for his car arriving, I’m not sure I’d have gotten away. After I left you in downtown Langley, I watched Drew and a woman from outside my balcony window, who I know now to be Chelsea, searching my apartment.”
“Did you mention him to the police in South Carolina?”
“Yes, I came clean with them, and I will with the Georgia police force at two tomorrow. I’ve called everyone I know to see if they’ve heard or seen Chrissy. That’s why I seriously doubt the wicked-sister made contact while she was in Langley yesterday.” Melanie bit her lip, embarrassment filling her. “I was so afraid for Drew, but I know I can’t protect him this time. It goes against everything I believe in.”
“To be honest, I don’t like your brother.”
“How do you know him?”
“Chelsea brought him here a while back. He was too snoopy and quiet for my liking.”
“Drew? Quiet? Are you sure it was my brother, Drew Braxton?”
“Quite sure. Chelsea was defending his actions and bragging him up like she somehow needed my permission to date the likes of him.”
“I’m confused about his role in this whole thing. He doesn’t need money. The only thing I can think is that Chelsea has bewitched him, which isn’t hard – Drew likes his women.”
Trevor filled Melanie’s glass and topped up his own. Passing it to her, he grinned. “Pretend it’s alcohol and drink some courage, my dear.”
“You give me courage, Trevor, and I thank you.”
Trevor gathered Melanie into his arms and she rested in the stability of the man. The rapid beat of his heart played havoc with her senses, and when they could bear the closeness no longer, he lifted her chin. Seeing the acceptance in her eyes, he lowered his lips onto hers and claimed her heart.
He pushed back. “I’ve wanted to do that since I met you.”
“I’m glad you finally did.”
“When this mess is over, can we pick up here, at this magical moment in time?” Trevor asked.
“When this is over, yes.”
He glanced at his watch and said, “Tell the police that my detective will report anything he finds directly to them. We need to wind this up, sooner, rather than later.” He stood and pulled Melanie to her feet. “Now, you should probably get some rest. I have enjoyed this evening with you, and thank you for trusting me to share your predicament. Let me walk you to your suite.”
Loyal friends stand by through the good times and bad.
Chapter 15
The next morning, Melanie awoke to a quiet house. She stretched leisurely and glanced toward the clock. “My goodness!” she said, throwing the plush comforter to the side and bolting from the cozy bed. It was after ten o’clock. She hadn’t slept that late in a long time.
She headed for the shower and stood under the pounding spray long enough to stimulate her stiff, sleepy bones. Melanie debated her outfit for the day, forcing the thought away that she was dressing to impress the master of the house – even though she knew she was smitten. Hurrying through her daily preparations, she took care not to overdo the makeup for she remembered him complaining about the mask his niece Chelsea wore. He’d concluded by saying he liked a more natural look, like Melanie’s.
Her heart had caved-in the night before. Trevor was Chrissy’s uncle and should have remained off-limits. If her friend were there, she wouldn’t even dare daydream about the unexpected attraction. After all this was over, the magic was likely to disappear and she’d return to Langley alone – that seemed to be her lot where men were concerned. Trevor had, nevertheless, confirmed her doubts when it came to Chrissy being at the bottom of the river, and for that, she’d be grateful. Perhaps her friend was alive. Melanie would cling to that until evidence proved otherwise.
She opened the door and entered the quiet hallway, quickened her pace, and descended the stairs. Tilly greeted her at the bottom.
“Good morning, Miss Braxton. I’ll tell the kitchen you are up and ready for breakfast.”
“Please, tell them not to fuss. A toasted bagel and a coffee will do until lunch is served.”
“Cheese with your bagel, miss?”
“Thank you. That would be nice. I’ll be on the morning terrace.”
“Are you sure? The sun will be around there soon and…”
“I love the sun, Tilly, and the flowers are gorgeous. Tell the gardener for me, will you?”
“Yes, miss.”
The maid turned and left Melanie standing next to the wall with the family portraits. Trevor took center stage. So manly and sure of himself. His features were stern with the suggestion of a no-nonsense personality, yet now that she’d gotten to know him, she noted the artist had caught the hint of a twinkle behind
