Bidding on Love - Joanne Dannon

Bidding on Love Joanne Dannon

Bidding on Love Copyright © 2016 by Joanne Dannon

ISBN: 978-1-925450-00-2 (Kindle) ISBN: 978-1-925450-01-9 (epub) ISBN: 978-1-925450-02-6 (print) Dewey Number: A823.4 All rights reserved. By payment of the required fees, you have been granted the non-exclusive, non-transferable right to access and read the text of this e-book on-screen. No part of this text may be reproduced, transmitted, down-loaded, decompiled, reverse engineered, or stored in or introduced into any information storage and retrieval system, in any form or by any means, whether electronic or mechanical, now known or hereinafter invented, without the express written permission of Clarendon 3 Publishing (www.clarendon3.com). This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, businesses, places, events, and incidents are either the products of the author’s imagination or used in a fictitious manner. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental.

Edited by: Giggle Girl Editing Services Cover Design by: Ash’s Art and Design Formatting by: Polgarus Studio

About The Author Joanne Dannon has been living in the world of romance for as long as she can remember. From doodling love hearts on her school notebooks to regularly reading romances, Joanne’s world has always been filled with the excitement of love stories. So it was just a natural for Joanne to begin writing the genre she’s always loved. Formerly a policy writer by day and romance writer by night, Joanne now spends full time writing the books she adores. Creating heroes for readers to fall in love with and heroines to cheer on, her characters are people readers can identify with. Joanne writes to give her readers the experience she still loves to savor—indulging in a sigh-worthy-happily-everafter, being swept away from the everyday by diving into a delicious romance novel.

Joanne Dannon is a happily married mother of two heroesin-training who loves spending time with friends and family. She can be found on Facebook and her website www.joannedannon.com chatting about reading, writing, cooking, vintage-inspired dresses and all things romantic. She loves to hear from readers.

Acknowledgments Dear Reader I love romances with an auction and one of my favourites is More than a Mistress by Sandra Marton. That book resonated with me so much that I decided to write my own romance with an auction. I needed a larger than life hero who was determined, smart with plenty of business acumen, and I am thankful to my very dear friend Judith Bauerberg who helped bring my Argentinian hero to life. This book is as much about the hero, Diego, as it is about the heroine, Lily. And I’m thankful to the three men in my life who’ve shown how men can be loving husbands and awesome fathers—my husband, my father, and my brother. Thanks to Lexi Greene who read my draft and gave me a thumbs up. You are a wonderful friend and writer.

And thanks to my editor, Rahab Mugwanja, whose attention to detail is amazing and makes my writing shine. As always, I’m so thankful for the blessed support of my beautiful family and friends. Pop over to my website (www.joannedannon.com) to say hi or keep in touch via my newsletter (http://eepurl.com/bvOoXP), I love to hear from readers. With love, Joanne

To my beautiful sons, I know you’ll each grow up to be a loving husband and an awesome father. Love you both to the moon and back xxxx

CHAPTER ONE Lily Taylor wondered if her life could get any worse. This was supposed to be her defining moment; the moment she publicly announced she was a singer. And what better way to do it than via a celebrity auction, at Crown Palladium, with fifteen hundred people in attendance. “Come on, someone bid,” she muttered through clenched teeth. Her manager, Deena, had agreed to her proposal so Lily had glammed herself up and made the brave decision to tell the “world” who she was. But darn it that wasn’t going to happen if this crowd, who’d forked out one thousand dollars per ticket, weren’t paying attention. Instead they were stuffing themselves with the magnificent array of desserts, she’d organised. Their chatter drowned out the MC’s amplified voice. They hadn’t talked so loudly when a gorgeous lingerie model wearing an indecently tiny bikini had strutted across the stage. A date with her, had reached a staggering fifteen thousand dollars. 1

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“Ladies and gentlemen. Lily Taylor is a talented singer, with a stunning voice. As a new and upcoming jazz performer, you’ll want her to perform at your next function. Do I hear five hundred dollars?” Nothing. Not a bid. The MC cleared his throat before raising the microphone again. “Ladies and gentlemen, you know how worthy tonight’s charity is? We’re here to raise money for research and help the kids.” Lily allowed herself a moment’s relaxation as the actor continued his spiel. He was good, really good. Desperate parents struggling. Sweet kids suffering. Ways their generosity would help. A man, seated at a table close to the stage, raised his hand and said, “One dollar.” His friend snorted loudly with amusement, lifted his arm, and called out, “Two dollars.” Others around joined in and soon enough choruses of bids had totalled thirteen dollars and twenty-five cents. Fire burned in Lily’s belly and she quashed an urgent need to jump from the stage and stomp on men’s toes with her stilettos. Finally the MC calmed the raucous group down. “Ladies and gents, we’re doing this for the kids. How about a bid of two hundred and fifty dollars?” Someone get me off this stage, she pleaded silently as vexed annoyance dripped down her back. What had seemed like a good idea to launch herself had turned into a stupid stunt making her look foolish. If she could go back in time, she 2

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would’ve said nothing to her boss, the organiser of tonight’s event. As an excellent PA, there was no need to reach for the stars and make a fool of herself. Having harboured her dream for being a professional singer for so long, it could’ve waited a little longer.

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Diego Sanchez made his way back to the table, apologising to his date for his lateness. He’d been stuck chatting with an acquaintance outside. He sat. The MC’s request for a bid droned over the crowd’s chatter. The auction was still going? Rolling his eyes with boredom, his gaze flitted around the large room before making its way to the stage. His gut twisted tightly, like a corkscrew into a cork, and he sucked in a sharp breath. He took another disbelieving look, almost unable to believe what he was seeing. It was her. Lily! His eyes widened and the chatter around him faded so all he heard was the thump thump of his heart pounding against his ribs. How many restless nights and mornings had he awoken, throbbing with need, wanting her? And of all places to find her again, being auctioned off. Que estupido. His date, Sonja, sighed. “I wish they’d finish, this is sooooooo boring.” Her chatter disappeared into an annoying hum. “Diego? You’re not listening to me.” A hand caressed his thigh. 3

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“Not now.” He hissed. Sonja gave him one of her practised whimpers of neglect. “Diego?” His molars ground together before he deftly removed her hand and pushed his chair back from the table. He couldn’t keep his eyes off the stunning redhead standing on the stage, the one whose moans of pleasure had haunted him for the past month. Their one-night stand would’ve been more than one night if his father hadn’t had a heart attack. The noise around him reached a raucous crescendo. A man seated near him called out a fifty cent bid, clapping his hands, obviously intoxicated with the exuberance of the bidding war. Distaste curdled in his belly before his fingers clenched into balls. His gaze took in Lily standing metres away from him, fire burning in her eyes. He had to save her. He had to get her off that stage. He had to…get her back in his bed? He sucked in a sharp breath, remembering the sweet taste of her skin and the soft sobs when she cried out his name begging for completion, that night. No. What he needed to do was rescue her from the senseless game of small bids. He smiled. One bid should do it. “Thirty thousand dollars,” he said in a loud, take-noprisoners voice.

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The noise stopped. The laughter ended. You could hear a pin drop. Who had made the bid? 4

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Lily snapped her mouth shut and wondered how long it had been gaping open. Shocked, a tightness in her chest made it hard to breathe. A collective gasp swept through the palladium. “We have a bid from a gentleman on table two for thirty thousand dollars.” The MC sounded awestruck, astounded, astonished. The MC stopped and looked at the table. “Any more fifty cent bids?” he asked with a raised brow. “No? Sold to the gentleman on table two. Thank you for your generosity, sir.” Any minute now, Deena, her boss, would come over, laugh and tell her it was all a set-up, a way to get her off the stage because they were behind schedule. Relief threaded through her veins. No one would bid so much money for her. The model had scored fifteen thousand dollars. Who would bid twice that? For a jazz singer. With a stage light blinding her vision, she could just make out a tall man standing. The MC announced, “Ladies and gentlemen, put your hands together for The Crow.” The Crow was one of Australia’s most exciting rock stars. The room exploded with thunderous noise, the audience cheering, as the star of the evening leapt on the stage bellowing out his signature song. Lily scuttled with the speed of a gazelle off the stage and collapsed on the floor backstage. A bucket of relief splashed over her, steadying her nerves. It was over. Finally. Drawing in some deep breaths, picking herself up, 5

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straightening her shoulders, she then made her way to the Palladium so she could change back in to her sensible suit and return to her job. As the PA to the event’s manager, she was responsible for ensuring the evening was not only efficient, but eventful. The Crow’s voice filled every inch of the palladium and the criss-crossing of the laser light show made for spectacular viewing but distracted her while she made her way down the narrow stairs at the side of the stage. To retrieve her clothes she was going to have to walk past her torturers. The table made of the low bidders. Was there a detour away from the antagonistic tossers? Turning in her heels she walked right into a chest. A very manly, solid chest. A recognisable scent filled her nostrils. Her head tilted up, recognition fluttered in her belly, and her gaze clashed with the fantasy of all fantasies. The man she’d indulged with in a one-night stand. The man who’d danced the Argentine tango so well it could be considered foreplay. A man she never expected to see again. Diego Sanchez. “Diego?” Seeing him in the flesh reemphasised how unattainable he was. He was hot and could’ve modelled for designer labels. While she was…she was Lily. An everyday gal with everyday looks. Her greedy gaze took in his chiselled jaw and high cheekbones. The memory of their time together was seared in her brain. She’d never been so upfront, wild, or naughty as she had with him. He’d had a way of making her toss her good-girl attitudes in the bin and indulge in mind-blowing 6

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sex. Not just once but many times. Her cheeks flushed remembering how she screamed out his name as he drove into her, fulfilling her as no man had ever done. And now he was standing in front of her. And she was embarrassed. Embarrassed for leaving early, embarrassed for how loud she’d been that night but now, embarrassed because he’d have seen the auction. She wanted to hide. Plastering a smile across her lips to hide the nerves coursing through her veins, she said, “Diego.” Even to her own ears, her voice sounded needy and breathless. How pathetic was that. Get it together, Lily. In a city of four million people, you were bound to run into him. “Hello, Lily.” His Spanish-tinged Australian accent had her toes curling in stiletto heels. Stupid, she couldn’t remember her manners and make polite conversation. Instead she stood immobilised like a kangaroo caught in car headlights and blurted out, “I thought you were a dance teacher. You didn’t tell me you’re an entrepreneur, a millionaire.” “Is that an accusation or a compliment?” His left eyebrow lifted as a smile tugged at his full, sensuous lips. Lips that had made her thighs quiver with need. She was a goner. She had to stop thinking about him. Besides, he hadn’t made contact since that night. He probably hadn’t given her a second thought. If he had, he could’ve called her. But he hadn’t. Actions spoke volumes. “It’s just that…” Anxiety enveloped her lungs making it hard to breathe. She had no idea what to say, what to do, 7

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what to think. An etiquette book on “What to do when you run into your first one-night stand in a public place” would’ve come in handy now. “I didn’t mention it when we…” He took a step closer. “Met.” She stretched her fingers out, then reclenched them. “I thought you were helping out your sister.” Wrong! A quick Internet search, the following day, had revealed him to be the brains and ideas behind the hugely successful Sanchez wine bars all over Melbourne, showcasing premium wines including his family’s own. There were also plenty of images of him with beautiful women. Of course a man like him would have women flocking to him. Great looks, great business mind, great in bed. Darn it. She snapped at her brain again. How could she have not realised a man with such an autocratic, sexy personality would be a successful millionaire, with a luxurious apartment along the prestigious St Kilda Road? How she’d tried, desperately, to forget their time together but most nights she remembered how amazing it’d been. They hadn’t even made it to the bedroom and had had sex on the luxurious woollen carpet of his apartment. Good girls, like her, didn’t have thrilling sex with someone they’d just met. She’d seen her reflection the following morning. The bathroom mirror showed a tired, cranky single mum. But despite the connection she felt with him, she wasn’t glamorous or effervescent. Sure they’d had great sex, but it wasn’t like they could have more. He’d 8

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undoubtedly get bored of her, like her few previous boyfriends. So she’d made the difficult decision to keep the night special, one night, and had snuck out of his place, before he awoke. Seeing her boss, Deena, stalking toward them made her shoulders sag with relief. She could get away from Diego. Work was a good excuse. She had to escape from him because one searing look from him could melt her bones and she’d do something stupid like suggest they have coffee back at his apartment. Within seconds Deena was standing between them, her beaming smile so wide it could be seen from outer space. “Mr. Sanchez.” Interest crinkled her brow and Lily was surprised to see her boss gush, her eyelashes fluttering with enchantment. Deena knew Diego? “I’m Deena Carmichael, the organiser of tonight’s event.” She held her hand out to Diego. Lily’s eyes narrowed, watching Diego shake Deena’s hand. “Please call me Diego.” “I can’t thank you enough for your generosity.” Deena fawned over Diego, her manicured fingers brushing his arm in a way that was a tad overfriendly. Concern made her lungs clench with apprehension. She’d thought Deena was coming to see her. But she’d come to see Diego and was being overly friendly like she wanted something. Perhaps someone pinned a note to her back? Perhaps everyone was in on the joke except her. “W-what’s g-going 9

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on?” She swayed on unsteady legs. Perhaps the spotlight had baked her brain cells. Deena turned to her with a disbelieving look as if to say, didn’t you see the note pinned to your back? Instead she said, with a cynical roll of her eyes, “Lily, Diego was the winning bid, for you.” She turned to face Diego, with yet another beam of wide lips, flashing two rows of perfectly straight teeth. “One hundred percent of the monies raised in the auction tonight are going to the Children’s Foundation.” Diego nodded, giving Deena a polite smile. What? Lily blinked rapidly as nausea rolled in her belly. Diego was her liberator? He’d saved her from a humiliation comparable to the death of a thousand cuts. It hadn’t been Deena? An arrow of disbelief shot through her ribs and Lily staggered back, her wobbly legs barely containing her weight. “That was you?”

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“Yes, that winning bid was mine,” he said, wondering why she looked so aghast. Having saved her from those stupid bids was it so hard to expect a little gratitude? Or perhaps her friendly demeanour was an act? Obviously she hadn’t felt the connection he had between them. He turned his gaze to the older woman. “I’ll write the cheque and give it to Lily, shall I?” His tone implied she was no longer required, which she wasn’t. He wanted to be with Lily, not some organiser whose overfriendly touches were grating on his nerves. “If you’ll excuse us, I’d like a few minutes with Lily,” he said. 10

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“Well, ah…” Diego ignored the woman’s fussing and took Lily’s elbow. He spotted a dim, quiet corner and guided her there. Despite his slow movements and calm demeanour, his pulse was pounding a primitive beat. The subtle waft of her shampoo teased his nostrils and he buried inappropriate thoughts of leaning closer and breathing deeply. “You look like I just deliberately hurt a puppy,” he said in a low voice. Her shoulders sagged and her gaze lifted to meet his. “I was just surprised. I ran into you, literally, only to find out it was you who made that bid. Why did you spend so much, when you could’ve had me perform for less than that?” “The money goes to charity, does it matter?” he said with a flippant wave of his hand. He didn’t want to tell her, now, he’d been focussed on getting her off the stage. She rested her hands on her hips and the skin between her eyebrows crinkled. “Yes, it does.” She blew out a long breath. “You’ve embarrassed me. It’s going to look like you bought me for…” She stumbled over her words before she muttered the word, “sex”. Her pale skin emphasised the flush that started on her neck and worked its way up to her cheeks. He suppressed an urge to laugh; she was just gorgeous with her flaming red hair and blazing green eyes looking at him like she was angry or annoyed or whatever the hell she was. If anyone was going to be angry it would be him. But he pushed the anger aside because he was genuinely glad to see her again. 11

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He was surprised she was so concerned about her reputation. No one would care. Did it matter whether they’d had sex or not? Couples their age had sex. He dismissed her concerns by suggesting, “I’ll put out a press release.” This seemed to appease her as she nibbled on her lower lip. “When do you want me to perform?” Having paid a ridiculously large amount, he shouldn’t have forgotten about organising for her to perform. The problem was, he hadn’t cared. He’d wanted her off that stage but he also wanted to see her again. “Tuesday night,” he said without a thought. He had a function then and he wanted her there, with him. “Excuse me?” Her brow lifted. “What’s on Tuesday night?” He huffed. “Sorry. You remember my sister?” “Of course I do.” She leaned forward, interest shining in her eyes. “We’re seeing her perform and I want you to accompany me.” He paused. “As my guest. And during supper you can perform.” He gave himself a giant thumbs-up, impressed with his ability to come up with something so quickly. Not only would she perform, but she’d be his date for the evening. A prosperous idea. “Who’ll be there?” “My family,” he said, which was true, but didn’t take into consideration the size of the clan. If he mentioned it, would she still attend? Or only come for the performance? Being greedy and wanting her there had him implying what 12

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he hoped she wanted to hear. Her fingers fluttered to her throat. “I was hoping to perform to a bigger audience but your family will be fine.” She stopped and took a deep breath. “I’m sorry that I haven’t thanked you properly, but I am thankful you got me off that stage.” “You’re welcome and—” “Diego, darling.” A female voice drawled, interrupting them. “I’ve been looking everywhere for you. Come dance with me, I don’t want to be alone.” Lily turned to see a stunning woman wearing a dress that would fit an eight-year-old. Her gaze took in the perfect lipstick pout, perfect toned body, perfectly styled hair, perfect manicured nails complete with large breasts showcased, barely contained, in a shoestring bodice. “Diego.” The blonde sulked, trailing a finger down his arm, having perfected it to an art, as Lily took in the plump upturned lips and crafted mope. Obviously, this was the type of woman Diego fancied and she would be stupid to think he’d be interested in someone as stable, predictable, and level-headed as her. Men wanted women like the blonde, not some too-slim redhead, carrying suitcases of emotional baggage. The thought of Diego and the blonde together made her stomach churn, which was stupid, really. He’d probably bedded other women over the past four weeks, it’s not like he’d been waiting for her. Whereas she’d thought about him constantly over the past month, reliving every sensual moment of their night together over and over and over. 13

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The evening’s fun-meter plunged even further downward, dipping well into negative numbers. “Lily, this is Sonja. Sonja, Lily.” Sonja’s gaze didn’t falter from Diego. He turned to face Lily. “I’ll be in contact with you about Tuesday.” He leaned forward, his warm breath caressing her skin, making her shiver. “And you will tell me why you disappeared on me,” he whispered in her ear.

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CHAPTER TWO Why did you disappear on me? The question had woken her up early and she’d lain in bed wondering what on earth she was going to tell him. The need to ensure her brothers were well fed, especially on weekends, had her clamouring out of bed and cooking a hot breakfast for them. “Lily?” The sharp tone of her brother’s voice interrupted all thoughts of her tall, handsome Argentinian rescuer. “What?” Lily rubbed her eyes. “I’ve asked you three times where my cricket gear is. Practice starts soon.” Jake’s brow furrowed. Sunday morning, back to reality, and she was pathetically day-dreaming about Diego and the tiny dimple on his left cheek. Without access to an etiquette guide of one-night stands, she’d assumed he’d have been happy, or rather relieved, not to face her after their sex-marathon. She’d left that morning after seeing her reflection in the bathroom 15

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mirror. Matted hair, average features, and smudged makeup. What a mess! The full-length mirror mocked the red marks across her breasts from the grazing of his unshaven chin and the carpet-burns on her knees and hands. Plus, having met his date the previous night, only confirmed she’d made the right decision. He’d taken Sonja to the gala event last night, not her. He wanted to be seen with Sonja, not her. She’d wondered for days whether leaving without a bye that morning had been the best decision and now she knew it was. She yawned, loudly. She needed more sleep. “Thanks for breakfast,” Jake and LJ said in unison, both clearing the plates that had only recently been piled high with poached eggs, sautéed mushrooms, grilled tomatoes, wilted baby spinach, and buttered toast. “We saved you a bit.” They chuckled, pointing to a small plate where a lonely poached egg sat on a small bed of spinach with a solitary mushroom to keep it company. Like a teen besotted about her favourite singer, she’d spent way too much time, sitting at the table, thinking about Diego. Her brothers had taken advantage of her distraction and polished off all the food. She had no one to blame but herself. She knew how much they ate. She pointed an accusing finger at them. “Now that you’ve finished your exams, you boys need to start cooking.” “But you’re such a good cook.” LJ’s smile mirrored his compliment. 16

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She ignored his smile and his compliment. Jake grinned. “Maybe we shouldn’t have woken her?” “Well you shouldn’t have been kicking a ball in the hall. You’re nineteen, not nine,” Lily said with a frustrated snap of her fingers. “And from next weekend, you need to cook your own breakfast, I’ve taught you.” The twins looked and gave each other a cheeky grin. That’s how they’d always been, communicating without words. “But you’re better at it,” Jake said, an obvious attempt at pacifying his sister. “How did last night go?” LJ asked, crossing his arms and leaning against a chair. “I bet you were snapped up.” Her tummy rolled with disappointment and as much as she wanted to share the truth with her brothers, she just couldn’t tell them of the humiliation and how it was only ended when the guy she been fantasising about had turned up and rescued her. Instead, she said, “I was very nervous but was bought by Diego Sanchez, to sing for his family.” LJ gave her a thumbs up sign. “Wow, that’s awesome.” “Sanchez? Isn’t he the one that owns the wine bars?” Jake’s brow furrowed, as he looked at his older twin by five minutes. Her breath caught in her throat. They knew him? Pretending that Diego’s name had no effect on her, she calmly asked, “What do you know about wine bars?” LJ sniggered and punched his twin in the shoulder. “He doesn’t know anything but was trying to impress a girl.” “Shut. Up. Idiot.” Jake returned a sharp punch to his brother’s arm. 17

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Lily’s head became giddy, reliving this scene, like in the movie, Groundhog Day. How many times had she broken them up fighting? Only to have them as best mates a minute later. “Boys.” She gave them her sternest look, which they promptly ignored. They continued to banter till they stopped and grinned. Jake turned to her. “You were saying?” She pretended to be offended with a toss of her hair. “I’m singing on Tuesday night.” “That’s great, Lil. You have a beautiful voice,” Jake said. “I think it’s time for us to video you and put it on social media.” “But—” LJ raised his hand in defiance, annoyed with her excuses. “Stop saying no. You’ve taken the first step on your new career. The next one is to put your singing on social media.” Her lungs seized and breathing became difficult. She knew they were right but could she do it? The thought of her out in the public domain both terrified and exhilarated her. LJ interrupted her thoughts. “Heaps of artists get exposure by putting themselves out there. You just need to do it. Otherwise how will someone in the music industry hear about you?” She shook her head, still unable to believe she had her first public appearance in two days. “I’m not ready.” “You’ve been having lessons for years and we hear you sing all the time. You’re ready,” Jake said with a determined grin. 18

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“I want to travel,” she threw at them. They crossed their arms and glared at her. “Seriously?” They rolled their eyes in sync. Twins! Double trouble, even at this age. She raised her arms in defeat. “Okay.” She’d run out of excuses. For years she’d used her brothers as an excuse. But now they’d finished high school. The day to go out and realise her dream was here. But what she really needed was a bucket load of confidence. Sadly, it couldn’t be bought at a store. “Okay, we’ll try something later on.” She waved her hand in the air, still quite unable to believe she was going to do it. The boys high-fived each other. “Finally.” She yawned. “But for now, I’m going back to bed. Please clean up.” She pointed to the dishes. Was it selfish of her to want to be a single gal with no responsibilities, only be accountable to herself? At nineteen years old when her parents died, she’d taken on the role of being a single mum to her brothers. Now, nine years later, was it wrong for her to wish to travel and be her own person? To make new friends and have some romance?

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Tuesday dawned all too quickly and she’d organised with Deena to finish work early so she could be ready for tonight’s “date” with Diego. Her mobile phone propped up in the bathroom, the glorious voice of Ella Fitzgerald sang out from the tiny 19

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speaker, calming her anxious nerves in preparation for tonight’s singing performance. She could do this, she reassured herself. The loud ring of her mobile phone interrupted Ella’s soothing voice making her heart flutter with the unexpected disturbance. A quick look at the caller ID revealed it was Diego. Diego? She’d spent the past hour thinking about him and their night together. It’d been a fantasy, an escape from her everyday humdrum. She never expected to see him again…ever. And now he was calling her. To cancel? With shaking fingers she answered the phone. “Hi, Diego. Is everything okay?” “Lily.” He acknowledged. “I’ve been held up at work and will be a few minutes late. Be ready, I don’t want to be late.” His tinged-sexy-Spanish accent made her insides melt. “I’ll be ready. Thanks for letting me know.” “See you soon,” he said before disconnecting the call. They were not only going out, but also, she was meeting his family and would sing for them. The familiar terror and nerves that had gripped her belly over the past two days came back with a vengeance. He would be here, soon, to pick her up. Not only handsome, but he had an assertive, dynamic personality that she found attractive and sexy. He didn’t ask questions. He did what he wanted. Seduced her. Bid for her. She nibbled on her lip wondering what she would say 20

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when he asked why she’d left after their night together. He wouldn’t forget to ask. It wasn’t in his nature. What to say? What to say? He’d invited her to see his sister, Camilla, perform on Celebrity Dancing tonight. “Celebrity Dancing is my favourite TV show. It’s why I went to Camilla’s dance school,” she’d blurted out when he’d invited her. But she couldn’t help the anticipation of seeing her favourite show live. Those two hours of TV, watching couples dance and move, had been a regular escape from her everyday humdrum. Learning to dance had been a spur of the moment insanity and that decision had had a profound impact on her. It’s how she’d met Diego. “After, we’re having supper at Southbank.” He mentioned the name of a restaurant she could only dream of dining at. Dusting powder to her nose she sang along with Ella to “Cheek to Cheek”. She and Diego may not have danced like Fred and Ginger but their night together, one month ago, had been special… Being one of the few single women attending she’d already felt out of place, a little jealous of the couples moving intimately to the Latin beat. But her brother, Jake, had insisted she attend. Attend she had. “Apologies but Eduardo is unwell and won’t be here tonight,” Camilla, their teacher, announced. 21

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Lily groaned. One of the highlights of the class was watching Eduardo and Camilla burn up the dance floor with an incredible display of Argentinian tango. “I’ll let Eduardo know he was missed but he should be back for next week’s class. Lucky for us my brother was available to help out tonight. Everyone, please welcome Diego,” Camilla announced, displaying a large smile, before a flurry of hands pointed to the tall man next to her. “Hi, Diego,” the attendees chimed in reply. Lily would have also greeted Diego if her tongue hadn’t been stuck to the roof of her mouth. Being confronted by a six-foot-plus male specimen of such deliciousness had never happened to her. She ogled his long legs encased in black pants and the snug black T-shirt highlighted muscular arms, lightly tanned skin with a smattering of crisp hair. Frozen to the ground, Lily forgot how to speak. Lost in a myriad of inappropriate thoughts, Lily had barely registered the music blaring through the speakers and the couples starting to move to the beat. Lily’s gaze met Diego’s. He took a step closer to her. Lily felt paralysed from the head down as though she’d been blasted by a giant freezing machine. Blood pounded through her veins, blocking out the sound of the Latin music. Not only immobile, but she appeared to be unable to even greet the man. Sinful awareness dripped down her spine. “Diego.” Camilla looked up at her brother. “Can you please partner with Lily tonight? Thanks.” And then she was 22

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off demonstrating some dance moves to one of the couples. Lily looked around. She was the only single woman in attendance. “Shall we?” He came toward her and slid his arm around her waist. The delicious brush of his hand burned through the cotton of her T-shirt and the sensual, smooth manner of his voice had her insides turning to molten mush. Had he any idea of the effect he was having on her? “I’m not very good,” she confessed. “But then, that’s why you’re here, isn’t it? To learn to dance?” His deep voice whispered in her ear, reminding her of rich dark chocolate with a hint of something spicy, chilli perhaps? Lily smiled. “I can’t seem to get the steps right.” “There aren’t specific steps as such. Argentine tango is an informal, improvised dance.” With their close contact she was supremely aware of every defined muscle in his strong arms. With every slide of his leg against hers, the cross of their ankles and their knees brushing, it was as though he was virtually transmitting a feel of the music to her. She’d found her rhythm and danced with him around the dance floor without falling over or stabbing his toe with her heel. He moved closer, his cheek in contact with hers. A heady mixture of soap, something citrusy with a slight tang of male greeted her nostrils. She inhaled deeply. She resisted the urge to drive her fingers through his 23

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dark hair. It was a tad too long and she longed to feel the thickness of his mane through her fingers. “You’re ah, um, a good dancer.” Her stumbling words copied her stumbling feet. If he noticed how badly she danced, he didn’t say anything. “I’m enjoying dancing with you, a drink after?” Raw need ricocheted through her. Lily nodded. He wanted to see her? Her heart soared. As his knee brushed her thigh, she could barely contain the groan that escaped from her lips. The upper parts of their bodies were in such close contact, it was as though their hips and legs were joined. The movement came from their feet and toes. Lust stabbed at her belly with fierce determination reminding her she was a woman. Something she had forgotten over the years. When was the last time her libido was on full alert? She couldn’t remember. With his expert hands holding her close and the feel of his hips against hers, she realised the dance was more seductive than any lovemaking she could’ve imagined. His breath fanned her cheek and the intoxicating waft of his masculinity flooded her senses. The sensual rhythm of the music, the heat of his body, the way he said… Beep, beep. A noisy phone alert, she’d set earlier, tugged her out of daydreams, reminding her she needed to be ready soon. She quickly applied lipstick still unable to let go of that one night of incredible passion. It’d been something to think 24

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about every night. Her guilty pleasure. A reward after long days at work and being a “mum” to her siblings. But it had also been a defining moment for her. The following day, she’d gone shopping and bought herself lacy undergarments, a vibrator, and fire-red lipstick. Wearing her new bras and panties reminded her of how Diego had made her feel sexy, desirable, and wanton. He’d unleashed a side of her she didn’t even know she had. Not only did she love the feel of gorgeous underwear against her skin, but she finally had the confidence to confront her manager. She confessed her ability to sing and insisted she be included in the celebrity auction. Something that would never have happened before. She no longer cared that she’d been a one-night stand to him. He could’ve called her to see her again, but he hadn’t. Circumstances had brought them together—again. A dart of awareness shot through her. Lily knew that if he wanted her back in his bed, she’d go willingly.

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CHAPTER THREE At ten minutes after six o’clock, the doorbell rang and Lily’s breaths came in rapid-fire succession as she made her way in stiletto heels to the front door. Opening it, her breath became stuck in her throat. In casual gear Diego was smouldering hot but tonight, in his tux, he was downright lethal. In his dangerously sexy black suit, which he wore with subtle indifference, he leaned against the doorway, a lazy smile crossing his lips. “Hi,” she said, frozen to the carpet. “You look lovely.” His lips brushed her cheek. A waft of something lemony teased her nostrils and she had an uncharacteristic urge to tug at his tie and press her mouth against his. Instead, she cleared her throat of nerves and said, “Thanks.” Her dry tongue was as welcoming as munching sandpaper. “We should go.” He took her hand. 26

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After Lily locked the front door, they made their way to a waiting limousine. “It’s hard to park at the studio,” he explained, opening the door for her. “I’ve left my car near the restaurant so I can bring you home after.” She sank into the buttery soft leather seating, waiting for him to join her. The car purred and drove through the streets to their destination. “I’m really excited to be attending Celebrity Dancing but especially to see Camilla dance. She’s amazing.” She didn’t bother hiding her enthusiasm. They’d had one night together but tonight was a bonus. An opportunity to showcase her hard work and talent. She could’ve just been invited to sing at dinner, but instead he’d included her at the show and for dinner. His manners were exceptional. She couldn’t lie to herself, she’d be disappointed not to see him again. But if she was honest, they didn’t have much in common…except fiery attraction, a love of vintage movies, and dancing. “She is.” He nodded in agreement. In the closed confines of the car, the heady combination of his fresh smelling aftershave, minty breath, and alpha maleness was making her hormones go ballistic. She had an inappropriate urge to stroke the smoothness of his freshly shaved jaw before gripping his neck and pulling his head toward hers so she could kiss him. To avoid temptation, she stuck her fingers into her beaded clutch and she side-stepped toward the wall, giving her a few centimetres of relief. But not for long. 27

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As they made their way toward the studio, Diego turned toward her. She swallowed a bubble of hysteria praying to “the gods of successful dates” she would not embarrass herself or continue envisaging him naked when he was close by. The silence between them was thick and heavy and unable to help herself she started to talk, attempting to fill the void with endless chatter. “I-I…” “Yes?” He arched his left eyebrow. She reached into the depths of her now depleted strength, ignoring the jitters his husky voice was doing to the butterflies performing a tango in her belly. Deliberately keeping the tone of her voice light and upbeat she said, “Um, how did you come up with the idea for the wine bars? They’re all the rage.” “You’re interviewing me?” The tiny dimple appeared on his cheek, smiling at her. “Not at all. I was interested.” She inhaled deeply, hoping to steady herself but instead received a lungful of his delicious scent. The Internet had answered some of her questions about the business but she wanted to know more. “When my family came out to Australia we had an opportunity to work on a vineyard. It was isolated and an hour’s drive from Melbourne. However, my parents were unskilled and took the job relocating us to Red Hill.” “Your family? All of you?” “Yes, all of us. We lived there, and Camilla and I went to a local school.” “Don’t tell me you came up with the idea to move to 28

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Melbourne?” she said in mock horror. “Not exactly.” His lips twitched with amusement. “But I wanted to showcase our wines and I came up with the idea of a wine bar.” Her head tilted to the side. “There are now, what? Four of them?” “Five bars in Melbourne and we’re looking at expanding to Sydney and the other capital cities.” He announced with confidence in his voice. “Your family must be very proud of you,” she said. Gosh, was there anything this gorgeous man wasn’t good at? All too soon they’d arrived at the studio. The driver stopped the car and walked around to open the door for them. “This is thrilling,” she said as they made their way toward the entrance. Other invited guests, also dressed formally, were making their way to the recording studio. The personalities stopped in front of the photographers to smile and pose before gushing about their outfits. A thread of relief darted along her spine when they bypassed the media. In her beautiful vintage dress she didn’t need some nosy reporter making some stupid comment. Excitement bubbled in her belly seeing the number of stars attending the event, their air-kissing, and chit chat. The strobe lights and frenzy of the evening made it even more very exciting. Casting a look at Diego, she was surprised to see indifference plastered across his face. 29

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“Don’t tell me you’re bored?” Astonished breath became caught in her throat. “I’m here for my sister,” he confessed in a deadpan voice. “But if you weren’t here, I would’ve happily made an excuse not to attend.” “Really? But it’s thrilling to be here.” She waved her arm around the crazy madness of the show’s taping. “Whatever, let’s go inside.” He held her hand and guided her toward the entrance manned by security guards.

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Diego waved to a group of people and a smile tugged at his lips before they made their way to them. “Who are they?” she asked. “My family. Also Eduardo’s.” His grin stretched wider. His family? Eduardo’s family? He had to be kidding. Her confidence plunged to her knees. Walking toward them, Lily’s heel slipped on something. She gasped, skidded, and started to fall. “Diego,” she cried, her legs outstretched and her bottom inches from the floor. Within seconds he’d grabbed and hauled her to her feet. “Are you okay?” Her heart humped hard, her breathing was uneven, and her ankle ached from the slip. “Not really,” she confessed. He checked her heels before inspecting the floor around them. “Someone spilt a drink.” A passing waiter was hastened over. “You need to clean that up, now.” Diego pointed to the wet floor. “My date just hurt herself.” The young man’s eyes widened. “Yes, sir. I’ll do it 30

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straight away,” he said, before scuttling off. With Diego’s arm strongly fastened around her waist, they slowly made their way to the group. “Hola como estas? Que lindo verlos.” “Hola,” someone said before there was a rapid fire of Spanish. Diego kept his arm around her, hugging her close to his strong body. He whispered, “They’re asking about you.” Turning to the others he announced, “Lily slipped but she’s fine.” Embarrassment, at his announcement, burned along every inch of skin. Her heart thundered away and her ankle ached where she’d twisted it. She really wanted to ditch the stupid heels and wear something more practical. Diego rapidly introduced everyone to her but she struggled to focus on who was who with her nerves still jangled after the almost fall and the throbbing pain in her ankle. She looked around for a seat, somewhere to massage her foot. A bloke knocked her from behind. His apology was as sincere as when her brothers used up all the hot water leaving her none for a shower. Her vintage purse flew off from her fingers and hit the floor with a quiet thunk. Bending down to retrieve it, the clasp snapped open and out tumbled its contents. Lipstick. Mobile phone. Keys. Mints. And her emergency stash of tampons. The little white bullets skittled and bounced along the floor where one lazily stopped right in front of a 31

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man’s shoe. Mr Sanchez’s? Mr Lopez’s? Oh God. Squatting, in her mother’s beautiful silk dress, she scavenged for her lost items giving priority to the tampons. Her gaze darted across the floor and feet to check any forgotten items. None. Good. Now to stand without tearing the dress. She really didn’t need her dress tearing, exposing her new lacy bra and panty set. “Lily?” Diego bobbed down next to her before she shoved her lipstick into her purse. “Are you okay?” “Barely. A bucket of dignity would come in handy.” She sighed. He assisted her to a standing position with ease. “Perhaps, we should go to our table?” Straightening her shoulders, frustrated tears threatening to spill from her eyes, she said, “Thank you, I would like that.” At their allocated table, she turned to him and said, “It was a shock being confronted by not only yours but Eduardo’s family. Not just one but two large Argentinian families.” She held up two fingers in the sign of a V. “You all know each other. Then I’ve tripped, been knocked over and had my purse and all its contents fall to the floor. Not the glamorous look I was hoping to achieve tonight.” “I’m sorry, I should’ve warned you,” he said with sincerity. “I’m used to noise and camaraderie among us.” His thumb caressed her palm in a gentle circular motion. “I feel like an idiot. My ankle hurts and I was on my floor picking up tampons.” He chuckled. “It’s okay, it could’ve been worse.” 32

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“Worse?” She all but yelled before lowering her voice. “I don’t think so.” He lifted her hand and kissed it. “I’m glad you’re here with me tonight.” And with that admission, all thoughts of tampons skittling across the floor evaporated and her belly dissolved into melted chocolate.

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Three hours later, the Sanchez and Lopez families, plus Lily, were seated in one of Melbourne’s newest and most upcoming restaurants in Southbank. “Camilla and Eduardo, you were both incredible. Such an amazing performance,” Eduardo’s younger sister gushed. Lily squirmed in her seat. Not only were multiple conversations being held at the same time, but they were being conducted in an amalgamation of Spanish and English. The noise level snowballed to a piercing decibel as champagne was consumed and more bottles ordered. Lily had marvelled over the exciting display of tango and had been literally jumping out of her skin in excitement. Her breath had caught in her throat watching Camilla and Eduardo’s live performance, which had been a breathtaking experience of dancing. But those feelings of warmth and joy had dissipated, as quickly as the champagne, at the restaurant. Feeling like she didn’t belong, Lily now just wanted to hide in the Ladies’ bathroom for an hour or two. “May I propose a toast to Camilla and Eduardo? Your 33

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performance tonight was nothing short of outstanding. You both stole the show.” Eduardo’s father toasted. Another cheer erupted from the table as everyone raised their glasses and drank more of the vintage bubbles. Camilla’s smile grew even wider, if that was possible, before Eduardo leaned over to kiss her cheek. With their faces scrubbed clean of stage makeup and no longer wearing their costumes, they looked like a regular couple. Lily made a mental note to ask Diego if they were in fact a couple. “I’m so proud of you both,” Eduardo’s father said. Feeling a little lost, Lily leaned back in her chair. With sentences commencing in one language and finishing in another, she just couldn’t keep up with the chatter bouncing back and forth. For most of the night Diego held her hand in his. “You’re very quiet,” he whispered in her ear. Startled, Lily said, “To be honest, it’s a little overwhelming. Everyone knows each other and I’m…” She bit her lip before blurting out outsider and simply said, “It’s a-ah…it’s a little rowdy.” He swivelled in his seat to face her. “I was thinking of making an excuse to get out of it. But decided not to. Camilla’s my sister.” His brow arched. “Y’know how it is.” She gave him a weary sigh. “Actually I don’t. My parents are dead. My father had been estranged from his family and my mother, who was an only child, lost her parents when I was a teen.” She sighed again. “I’m actually a little jealous. I’d love to have a big family where happy times bring aunts, uncles, cousins together.” 34

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He rubbed his chin reflecting on what she’d said. “You’re right. I take this” —his hand swung around the table— “for granted. I shouldn’t have. Thanks for reminding me.” Surprise made her gasp. “You mean that?” “Of course I do,” he said in a sensitive tone while his fingers stroked her wrist. “I’m sorry about your parents.” “Thank you,” she said, appreciating the sincere look of concern in his eyes. Lily noticed a small hand tap him on his shoulder. His brow furrowed and he swivelled in his seat. Returning and facing her, he said, “My mother wants to talk to you.” Lily’s confidence gravitated southward and her nerves became a knotted ball. Temptation pulsed through her at the idea of shouting “fire” and evacuating the restaurant. Instead, she swapped seats, straightened her shoulders, and confronted Diego’s mother. She judged her to be in her mid to late fifties. There were a number of lines around her eyes making Lily wonder if they were from laughter or the hardship of emigrating and starting a new life in a new country. Plastering a warm smile across her lips she said, “Hello, Mrs. Sanchez.” The older woman returned her smile. “Donde trabaja usted?” “I’m sorry, I don’t speak Spanish.” Her tummy dropped after the incredulous stare she received from the older woman. “Your parents didn’t teach you?” she said in astonishment. Diego leaned over, interrupting them. “Mama, Lily’s Australian.” 35

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And that said it all. Why didn’t he say, she’s not one of us. Because not only did she look different with fiery red hair and pale skin, but her demeanour was quiet and calm. A stark difference compared to the loud, vivacious mannerisms from around the table. Diego shifted his chair so he sat next to Lily, facing his mother. “Mama wants to know what you do.” Determined not to be intimidated she decided to be herself. “I’m an executive PA. A personal assistant,” she clarified. “And where did you meet Diego?” The older woman’s smile did not reach her eyes. That wasn’t hard to answer. “At Camilla’s dance class. He was helping out one night.” “Oh, that’s when Eduardo was sick.” She clicked her fingers in recollection. She turned to Diego and patted his hand affectionately. Turning back to Lily, her hard eyes were ready and focused. A dark room devoid of furniture and a naked light bulb would’ve completed the inquisition. Dutifully Lily answered each question in turn. Yes, she had siblings. Two brothers. Younger than her. No, her parents were no longer alive. Yes, she owned her own home in the suburbs. No, she hadn’t been to University. And it would have gone on till Diego quietly spoke to his mother. “Mama, what have you ordered for dinner?” Diego’s head turned slightly to Lily. He gave her a wink and mouthed the word “sorry”. 36

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“Excuse me,” Lily muttered before standing and heading to the sanctuary of the bathroom to escape Diego’s mother. It was a little juvenile to go and hide in the ladies’ room, but hey, she needed a few minutes of reprieve. If she wasn’t supposed to be performing soon, she’d leave early, feign a headache. A hand tugged her backward and she ended up flattened against a hard body. Diego. He’d caught up with her before she could escape. Pulling her toward a darkened corner he asked, “Everything okay?” She breathed in his warm male scent as her breasts became full and heavy against the lace of her bra. “Sure, I-I ah…” “Needed a break?” He reassured her with a lift of his brow. “I didn’t want to say that.” She sighed. She shivered. Not from the cold but because her body was screaming out and begging for his touch. She melted against him, feeling his strength. Her breath quickened. She wanted him with every cell in her being. His thumb came up, tracing her jaw ever so lightly. Their gazes met. A tremor ripped through her. “We’re in a public place.” His dark eyes were smouldering hot. “As soon as we can leave, shall we spend some time alone?” Oh yeah! Her bones dissolved in anticipation. She’d go through the humiliation of the auction again, if it meant another night with him. Sucking in a breath to steady her 37

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wobbly legs, she said, “I’d like that.” He brushed his lips against hers. Her willpower not to be with him was as secure as a dandelion in a wind gust. Non-existent. Not that she cared, but she had to protect her heart. She could easily fall for someone like him. Not just handsome, but caring, family oriented, and with strong work ethics. No, she’d focus on the fun. Besides, settling down was not on her radar. She wanted to travel and finally have some fun in her life. The boys had finished school and the pressure of paying the fees had eased, which meant she could finally inject some excitement in her life. Her hormones virtually cartwheeled in anticipation of more great sex with Diego. Brushing the sensible side away, she reminded herself of the sacrifices she’d made over the years. Sex for sex’s sake wasn’t a bad thing. She was a grown woman. Was it so wrong? No, she pushed aside the last remnant of doubt before returning to the table. The waiters had served the meals and everyone was eating. Her dish of sautéed seafood in a white wine sauce waited for her. It smelt heavenly but she wondered how she was going to eat with anticipation of being with him bubbling through her veins. She needed to be doused with a fire hydrant. Using a fork to spear a piece of fish, she enjoyed its buttery soft texture and it virtually melted into her mouth. Diego seated next to her said, “How’s your meal?” “Mmm, delicious,” she murmured. 38

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The conversation continued around the evening’s show and how wonderful Camilla and Eduardo had been. She blinked furiously as the realisation hit her. Everyone was speaking in English. Her heart skipped a beat before she turned to look at Diego. Raising a questioning eyebrow, he gave her a wink before finishing his meal. Soon enough dinner was finished, plates were cleared, and tea and coffee were served. A large white platter of petit-fours was placed in the centre of the table. Diego stood and walked over to speak to his father. Camilla came over to sit in the empty chair. “You’re a dark horse.” She playfully punched her arm. She shook her head, not following what Camilla was insinuating. “Sorry, what do you mean?” “You and my brother,” Camilla gushed with enthusiasm. “I had no idea that you two were seeing each other. He never said anything.” “I-umm…” Her words became clogged in her throat. It was really inappropriate to tell her the truth. There was nothing “serious” going on. His sister didn’t want to know they were only sleeping with each other. Besides, if he hadn’t rescued her on Saturday night, she wouldn’t be here. Camilla leaned forward to whisper, like it was as important as a national security secret. “Mama and Abuela were hoping he’d marry an Argentinian girl but they’re so happy at the idea of him finally settling down, they don’t mind it’s you.” Her affectionate words did little to reassure her. Her and Diego marry? What on earth was going on? It 39

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was like a vortex had opened and everyone was in on the joke except her. “What?” Her lungs seemed incapable of operating without her forcing air in and out. The anxiety of what others were talking about, let alone thinking of her, was making her nauseated. “Don’t worry, I put in a good word for you,” Camilla reassured her with a genuine pat on her knee. “You’re really nice. I’d be thrilled to have you as my sister-in-law.” Lily gasped with the shock of it all. Unable to pretend everything was fine, especially to Camilla, she blurted out, “We’re not dating. He invited me here to sing.” “Oh.” Camilla’s face was masked with disappointment. “It seems there’s been some misunderstanding. I thought, oh well, never mind.” She looked at her watch. “It’s getting late. I don’t think it’s the right time or place to sing. It’s noisy and it wasn’t arranged with the restaurant.” She paused, and then to cover up her blunder she said, “I would love to hear you sing, perhaps another time?” Camilla gave her a reassuring smile. “Thank you for coming tonight, it was really nice to see you.” After giving Lily a heartfelt hug, she stood and returned to her seat, next to Eduardo. Lily’s belly burned with frustration and anger. Her moment to impress everyone with her talent had been brushed aside. Diego hadn’t told anyone about her performance and he’d pretended to his family they were dating. Why? It didn’t make sense. This was all getting too hard. Being with Diego was supposed to be fun, a diversion from the everyday. She’d hoped the opportunity of the auction would 40

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spring-board her into a new career. But since that wasn’t going to happen, she’d travel first and then return to Australia and focus on her singing career. With that decision made, she stood and bade a cordial yet sincere farewell to the families. She congratulated Camilla and Eduardo again before she and her dignity made a hasty exit. The second time she’d done so with Diego.

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CHAPTER FOUR Exiting the restaurant, Lily walked as quickly as her torturous heels would let her. Diego had not only let her down but humiliated her in front of his family. Their night together was special and would remain so…in her memory. Nothing else could come between them. Walking along the river, she sighed with relief that a taxi rank was not too far away. “Lily, wait up,” she heard him call. Ignoring him, she picked up the pace despite the intense pain in her ankle. The sound of his shoe soles hitting the pavement crescendoed and within seconds he was standing next to her. His hand gently gripped her elbow, forcing her to stop. “Why did you leave?” Concern tightened his jaw. Straightening her shoulders she said, “We had a onenight stand, let’s just leave it at that.” She flicked her arm in the air to rid herself of him clutching her. The skin between his eyebrows creased. “Did my mum or sister upset you?” 42

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“No, they didn’t,” she replied with a flippant tone. Well, just a bit if she was honest, but she certainly wasn’t going to tell him that. The cool evening autumn air caressed her flushed skin. “It’s been great but I think we should leave it as a great night of sex.” She extended her hand out to shake his, like she was confirming a deal. He growled in the back of his throat and pushed her hand away. “You’ve got to be joking.” “No, I’m not.” Sucking in a deep breath of confidence she fired at him, “Tonight was the night I was going to take a step toward launching my new career and you let me down.” “The performance?” His face paled and he slapped his forehead with his hand. “I’m so sorry, Lily, I totally forgot to organise it.” “It’s too late,” she said, narrowing her eyes. “But don’t worry about it. It’s not like we’re dating.” Remorse clouded his dark eyes. “But you were—” “Forget it,” she snapped, raising her hand, hoping an action would stop him from speaking. “We’re too different. You want to marry whereas I—” “What?” he fired, his body stiffening with frustration. “Who said that?” “Camilla, if you must know,” she added with a saccharin sweetened voice. “Lily.” He took a step toward her. “Don’t you Lily me.” She wagged her finger at him. “You owe me a performance,” he said in a beseeching tone. 43

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“I owe you nothing,” she flung at him before turning to walk to the bridge. But the stupid heels meant she didn’t get far and he was by her side in a few angry steps. “Let’s talk.” He grasped her hand. Tugging her hand she said, “Let’s not.” Her eyes narrowed seeing his lips curve into a grin. “Why are you smiling?” Giving her a bone-melting smile he said, “You’re beautiful when you’re angry.” “Urgh. I’m not angry,” she said, tossing her hair. “I want to go home.” “I’ll take you.” He stood directly in front of her like he was a fence. Rolling her eyes, she walked around him and flung over her shoulder. “No thanks, I’ll get a cab.” Then, before she could cry out his name, he’d grabbed her by the waist, lifted her with ease, and tossed her over his shoulder, caveman style. The blood whooshed to her head while she dangled upside down. Bastard. “Put. Me. Down!” She punched. Hard. He laughed at her antics, which made her even crankier. With one strong arm wrapped around her thighs and the other firmly holding her ankles, she couldn’t kick her way free. Shame. He strode with her over his shoulder and didn’t slow his pace even as they passed a group of young men cheering and wolf-whistling at the ridiculous sight of her. Disoriented from being upside down, she needed a 44

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minute to steady herself when he finally lowered her to the ground, before she made her escape. “Here’s my car.” He opened the car door and plonked her in the front seat. “Aren’t you multi-talented?” She praised. “Able to kidnap women and put them in a car, all in one easy step?” He leaned across her and snapped her seat belt, fastening her to the seat. “You’re gorgeous when you’re angry,” he murmured, pressing his lips to her neck. “We’ll talk and then I’m taking you home.” “No. Now.” She slapped the dashboard with her hand, letting him know she wasn’t interested in his games. “No, we’re talking first,” he said with a firmness that made her want to scream out her frustration. Darn him. The car sprang to life with a touch of a button. “We could’ve talked outside,” she said through gritted teeth. “I prefer to talk privately,” he replied in a low voice, seemingly unfazed by her scowl. Within a few minutes they were driving into his luxurious St Kilda Road apartment just minutes from the city. After parking in his allocated spot, he killed the engine and turned to her. “Here we are.” Their gazes clashed. Her body went hot, to cold, to burning hot. “I’m not interested.” Her fingers fluttered to her throat. He laughed deep in the back of his throat. “Sure,” he said in a disbelieving voice before unfastening his seat belt and exiting the car. 45

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Her gaze flicked downward and she gasped seeing her nipples straining against the silk of her dress. Traitors! The door opened, and Diego and his expert manners helped her out of the car. With a humpf, she got out and set off toward the lift. Angry at him, his family, and also her breasts—how dare they be perky for him? He followed and stood by her side as they waited for the lift to descend. “Are you going to say something?” She flashed him a dark, forget-it, look before turning her attention to the lift’s buttons. He chuckled. “That’s okay, I prefer my women to be on the quiet side.” A swipe of a card, a read of his thumb print before the elevator whisked them upward, heading straight for his apartment. “This quiet side of you, it’s becoming.” She tore her eyes from the design of the plush carpet pile and glared at him. “Are you interested in becoming a standup comic?” His deep belly laugh reply and her inability to exacerbate him made her want to stab her stiletto in his toes. The doors opened and she walked into his stunning apartment like she belonged there. Kicking off her shoes, she purred with relief. Her naked toes wriggled in the luxurious wool blend carpet making her sigh with contentment. Bliss. The soft lamp bathed the apartment with a golden, inviting glow, creating a warm and inviting mood. It 46

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clashed uncomfortably with the disappointment and setback of the evening, which weighed heavily on her shoulders. An urge to be at home in her comfy pyjamas, sipping chamomile tea, had her snapping at Diego. Couldn’t he see that tonight had been a disaster and the auction had been a disaster? She needed time to reflect on how she was going to overcome these mishaps. Through the floor-to-ceiling glass panels, the Melbourne CBD and St. Kilda Road lit up the night. She gazed at its magnificence, allowing her a moment of calm. “What a view,” she said under her breath. The last time she’d been here she hadn’t noticed the view, the luxury of the apartment. Her focus had been on Diego alone. “Can I get you something?” His question broke her thoughts. “How about some wine?” His demeanour was calm and unruffled before he pressed a button near the fireplace. The gas log fire sprang to life, welcoming and warming her. “You want to get me a drink?” she said, tearing her gaze from the comfort of the fireplace. “Really?” Irritation made her snap. “I’m a polite host,” he added with a shrug. “Nothing, thanks.” She crossed her arms. “Let’s sit.” He took her hand, guiding her to a large, inviting-looking leather couch. “I promised you I’d take you home and I always keep my promises.” He placed his hand over his heart. “Let’s talk for five minutes. Okay?” The smooth, rich, deep voice of his was her undoing. Darn it. She wanted to collapse into a puddle of 47

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disappointment and confess how hard things were and how desperately she wanted a break. Instead, she raised her hand and stretched out her fingers. “Five minutes,” she said with determination. “I’m sorry if I embarrassed you in any way tonight. It was not my intention to do so. I just wanted you there.” Her eyes widened, she certainly wasn’t expecting a meaningful apology. She nibbled on her lip. “You paid a lot of money for me to sing for you and…” The coal black of his eyes darkened. “I know, but to be honest, I wanted you off that stage.” She sighed as warmth washed over her. For so many years she’d been independent, resourceful, and able to look after herself but she couldn’t help revelling in his consideration of her. “I didn’t need rescuing.” “I know, but the behaviour of those men disgusted me.” A warmth spread across her chest, it was nice having someone look out for her. “But it was a lot of money, you could have paid a few hundred dollars, it’s not like there was any competition.” Not that she would confess to him that she was secretly flattered he’d paid more for her than what was paid for the swimwear model. “That’s not my style.” He gave her a cheeky grin before pausing, a serious look crossing his eyes. “What did Camilla say? I saw your face blanch when she was talking to you. And then you left. Tell me.” Drawing in a deep breath she said, “Thank you for your apology, it’s very nice and heartfelt and I do believe you didn’t mean to do anything untoward me. B-but, I was 48

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embarrassed after speaking with Camilla.” She pressed her lips together before telling him the truth. “Your family believe we’re dating and there’s some intention to marry—” “What?” His shoulders stiffened and his eyes widened to the size of a small planet. “I said nothing.” She froze as he uttered his lie. Camilla had spoken to her with such sincerity that she believed her. “But your sister—” “Is mistaken.” His voice was low but direct; he wasn’t budging. She had an uncharacteristic need to shake that obtuseness from him. “No, she’s not,” she snapped. “She believed there was something more going on between us.” Her hand waved in the air between the two of them. “Since I said nothing, how did she come to that conclusion?” Her eyes narrowed with accusation. “Because of you!” She answered her own question with a dramatic flourish. His face whitened. “I never said anything about you.” “Don’t lie. It demeans you and makes me question your apology.” She leaned toward him. “I haven’t seen you in one month and yet she thinks we’re dating. Go figure that one out.” Exhausted from the emotional ups and downs of the evening, her body sagged against the sofa. “And then you let me down.” She paused. “I was supposed to sing for your family. I’d practiced, got myself ready only for Camilla to tell me not to worry about it.” “I’m sorry.” His head bowed apologetically. His sincerity made breath catch in her throat. “I know you’re sorry. Do you know that tonight was my first public performance? After years of finding excuses I finally put 49

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myself out there, trusted you to make it happen and it didn’t.” She pushed away tiny tears of failure. “You’ve got bucket loads of confidence, but I don’t. It took so much to stand up and announce that I can sing, and, and…you’ve quashed that opportunity.” Her confession left her drained and depleted of spirit. Pain tightened the skin along his jaw. “I’m deeply sorry to have let you down, Lily.” He took her hand in his. “Please let me make it up to you.” She tugged her hand from his. “It doesn’t matter now,” she added dismissively. He didn’t need to know she’d reviewed and revised her career goals. She’d travel, have time for herself, finally, then she’d look at singing professionally. With a smug toss of her hair she simply added, “I’ve reassessed my priorities.” It sounded like something she would say in an interview. Her hand made a sweeping movement in the air, implying she was brushing his concerns away. Rubbing his chin, he said, “I feel that there’s something missing.” She glared at him, annoyance burning her skin. “What’s missing here is the reason your sister and mother think there is more going on between us.” She rolled her eyes for dramatic effect. “That’s what.” He stilled, leaned back in his chair and closed his eyes momentarily, seemingly in deep thought. A minute passed before he opened his eyes and gave her his full attention. “I recently turned thirty-four. I’ve created a successful business of wine bars. But I want children, and since having them 50

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out of marriage is not an option, I’m going to marry.” She gasped with surprise, unable to believe this hot bachelor was willing to settle down. She never would have guessed. He continued, ignoring her stunned expression. “I’m Australian but born in Argentina. I love it here but” —he paused— “I want my children to grow up in a home where both English and Spanish are spoken. I want them to know and eat our family’s traditional dishes.” He placed his hand over his heart and said in a low voice, “My heritage is important to me.” He crossed his legs, leaning back into the softness of the sofa, his gaze firmly remaining on her. “I recently mentioned something about this to my mother. Excitement doesn’t come close to her reaction. All she can talk about is her becoming an abuela, a grandmother. She’s on the phone nonstop contacting friends in both Australia and in Argentina to find me single women; daughters, cousins…” He waved his hand dismissively. She gasped in astonishment. “Your mother’s matchmaking? You can’t find your own woman to love?” She didn’t know whether to laugh or be horrified. Was he such a mummy’s boy that he needed someone to find him a wife? “Your mother arranging your marriage seems so oldfashioned, so gaudy.” His eyebrows snapped together. “You cheapen your argument with crudeness.” Her cheeks warmed with shame. Having a differing opinion didn’t mean she had to show contempt for his. 51

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“Sorry, that wasn’t appropriate.” “No, it wasn’t.” He gave her a frosty stare. “It’s not an arranged marriage. It’s an opportunity for me to meet someone who has the same values.” He viewed her through narrowed eyes. “We’ll meet, date, and if we like each other, we’ll consider marriage.” He stood and walked to stand by the large fireplace. “The women I want to meet are serious about marriage and starting a family. Dating someone with the same intention is logical and practical. You don’t waste time with someone who has no intention of settling down. What is wrong with that?” A silence hung between them as she digested every word he’d said. “But what about love?” she asked in a quiet but astounded voice. “Don’t you want to love the person you’re going to marry?” His determination did not waver. “Love will come. A good solid marriage will lead to love.” In a few long strides he went to the retro-looking bar and poured himself a glass of red wine. Looking at her, he lifted an empty glass. “Can I offer one to you?” “Yes, thanks.” After all the confessions and frustrations being poured out, she definitely needed something to drink. He poured her a glass of red wine and placed it on the table in front of her before walking to the window. Silently brooding, he sipped his drink, looking out at the road traffic. She took a moment to inhale the peppery spice of the wine and then took a small sip. Smooth. She drank a little 52

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more enjoying the rich taste. “I’m no wine expert but this is delicious. One of yours?” He turned to look at her. “Of course,” he said with an arched brow and a smile. “Look” —he paused— “most of my family have been introduced to their respective partners and they’ve all had successful marriages. My parents, my grandparents…they’re all happy.” He leaned against the wall, swirling the wine in his glass. “I want a good marriage. People fall out of love and lust all the time.” He swallowed another mouthful before continuing. “I’m taking a sensible approach to marriage. I’ve seen it work and that’s the way it will work for me.” She continued to savour her wine and reflect on his confession. It went against everything she believed in yet she could see the sense and value in what he’d proposed. Unlike him, she’d always expected her marriage would be like her parents’, where she’d meet someone, fall in love, and have her own happily ever after. His forthright approach to marriage not only conflicted with hers but also was foreign to her thinking. He came to sit near her. “One in three marriages in Australia break-down and I don’t want that, especially for my children.” She watched him fiddle with her glass, looking at it, like he was remembering something. The skin along his cheekbones stretched his lips together into a harsh line. The memory was obviously not a happy one. Taking a punt it had something to do with an exgirlfriend she asked, “Someone hurt you?” 53

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His mouth opened then he snapped it shut. He said nothing. “You trusted her?” She used a soothing voice, hoping he’d share with her what he was thinking about. He responded with a cool look. “I believe people come into your life for a reason. Hers was to reinforce my beliefs.” The sharp tone of his voice made her gasp. There was a lot of angry emotion there. Although she didn’t gamble, she was willing to bet her car that the dark, bearish, fiery man in front of her had suppressed every ounce of bitterness somewhere deep. A strained silence hung between them. She broke it, unable to sit quietly anymore. “What you’re saying makes sense. It’s just not for me.” She leaned into the softness of the sofa. “I want romance, love, and all that mushy stuff.” She grinned. “I guess your mum won’t be nominating me as a candidate,” she added with a wink so he knew she was teasing him. He returned the tease, with a chuckle. “You also don’t speak Spanish, you don’t know how to make empanadas, you—” She lifted her palm, giving him a stop sign. “I get it. I’m not good enough.” He inched closer to her. “Don’t say that. It’s not that you’re not good enough—” “Just not good enough for you?” she flung at him. “Are you joking?” His eyes darkened to black. “You’re more than good enough. You’re beautiful, kind, brave, confident, and strong.” 54

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“You really think that?” she said in a breathless voice. He continued in his adulation of her, making her feel all warm and squishy inside. “You’ve raised your brothers, put your dream career on hold for them.” “Well yes, but—” “You’re also stunning.” He reached out to touch her hair. “The colour is amazing,” he said, stroking his fingers through the length. “At least you don’t call me carrot head,” she managed to croak out because having him fawn over her was pretty special. “Your hair is magnificent. It’s one of the things that attracted me to you.” Her breathing grew ragged with the gentle touch through her hair and the sweet-talk of his words. “Just my hair?” “I like to think I’m not shallow to only date beautiful women, but when I met you that night, I was utterly smitten with your creamy skin, your green eyes, and red hair.” Her throat dried, still quite unable to believe what he was saying. “But then we talked and I got to know you. You’re smart and interesting. I don’t like you just because of your looks, I like you.” He paused. “My mother and sister can see how I look at you.” He stopped and then confessed in a low voice, “They’re not blind, and I can’t hide it. They see how much I want you.” She forgot how to breathe as she stared at him, digesting 55

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his words. He liked her for her? He liked her. “But you never called?” She didn’t want to sound needy but if he liked her, didn’t he want to see her again? “Beautiful, Lily.” He ran his fingers down the side of her face. “My father had a heart attack the day after we’d been together. It was only a small one but it was enough to keep me distracted and unable to ring you. With work and driving my mother to and from the hospital, I just didn’t.” He stopped then said, “It was a mistake.” She didn’t know what to say. His confession robbed her of coherent thought. Had his father not been ill, they could’ve been having crazy monkey sex for the past month. Her heart rate quickened. Silly of her to put herself down thinking she wasn’t good enough when there had been a perfectly good reason as to why he hadn’t called. She hadn’t had the confidence to call him after their one nighter, but now she felt stronger and more certain to approach him honestly. She’d tell him what she wanted. She could do it, she reassured herself. “You’re looking for a wife and to be honest, I’m not interested in getting married.” Blinking his eyes rapidly, he asked, “Never?” “I didn’t say never, but not for a few years. I mean, for the past nine years I’ve been a single mum to my brothers. Yes, I love them but now they’ve finished high school, just started University, I can finally have a life. My own life.” She shifted in her seat, seating straight with self-assuredness. “I want to travel, meet people, and have a bit of romance.” Despite her bravado, she was a little ashamed to admit she wanted to be selfish and have her own life. 56

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“My parents died when I was nineteen and I took over the responsibility of raising my twin brothers who were eleven at the time.” She took a steadying breath. “While my friends were going to University, getting drunk, having great sex, I was cleaning out school lunch boxes and helping with homework. I had to put my life on hold to raise them. I worked and worked and now all I want—” “Is to get drunk, dance, and have sex with university boys?” He gave a teasing grin. “Not quite.” She couldn’t help but chuckle at his silliness. “I want to have fun, to have great sex, and be the woman that is trapped inside of this sensible body.” She pressed her lips together unsure what he was going to make of her confession. Would he find it amusing that she wanted to be free and fanciful like a teenager? Seeking an answer, she watched him carefully remove the long- stemmed glass from her hand and place it on the coffee table. He ran his fingers up and down the side of her face languidly. She tilted her face toward him almost purring in response to his gentle touch. He hadn’t laughed at her and it gave her a burst of much needed courage. “I have a confession.” “Tell me.” He lifted her hand and kissed the pulse point on her wrist, before he inched even closer to her. “That night gave me confidence. The following day I approached Deena and asked to be included in the auction.” She paused. “I hid my talent, almost shamefully. But that night was so amazing and it filled me with such energy that I walked into her office feeling bold and brash.” 57

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His fingers slowly pushed her hair behind her ear, his gaze never faltering from hers. “I’m proud of you.” “I’m now channelling that assuredness and want to tell you…” “Tell me,” he urged her. Driving away the demons of doubt, she drew in a deep breath and said, “I want another night with you.” “Mi hermosa. My beautiful,” he muttered, tugging her toward him and closing his mouth over hers. Pressing his lips against hers, he cupped her bottom and with strong arms he lifted her so she now sat astride him, facing him. His kisses became urgent and she welcomed the invasion of his mouth, his tongue, and the soft guttural moans. An ache spread through her, driving her to speedily remove the clothing that separated them. Her fingers tugged at his shirt, pulling it free from his trousers. Unable to help herself, she spanned her hands over the firmness of his torso, loving the ripples of his muscles. Cupping her face, he kissed her with such intensity that she forgot about his abs and relished every scorching moment. The spicy scent of him filled her nostrils and words muttered in Spanish filled her ears. Momentarily, his mouth moved to her chin and inched its way to her ear. The soft press of his lips made her want more. Running his tongue along her ear before nibbling it, he said in a guttural tone, “I can’t think straight when you’re around. All I can think about is pleasuring you and hearing you call out my name.” 58

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His hands cupped and cradled her small breasts before his fingers stroked the nipples to tiny buds through the silk of the bodice. “Oh. My. God.” Her breathing came in short, sharp breaths. It was like their first time together. Electric, fiery, and oh so hot. Uncaring, she ripped his shirt apart. The force of her need to undress him made the buttons fly off, landing somewhere on the carpet. Leaning down, she swirled her tongue over the flat discs of his nipples. She sucked and tasted, loving the groans from his lips. Lust and need pummelled through her body. Hunger to pleasure him and be pleasured by him burned through every vein. She was wild and out of control with wanting him. She slid up and down his hard length. The friction of their clothes heightened her need, if that was at all possible. A hiss expelled from his clenched teeth. His hand dove under her skirt, and his fingers expertly ran along her thigh. “Hell, you’ve got stockings on. I need to see this.” “Don’t rip my dress, it was my mother’s,” she managed to say with her heart pounding and the pulsating need to have him right there and then. Truth be told, she didn’t give a toss about the vintage dress. All she cared about was the feel of the hard masculine strength of his arms. Within seconds, he’d lifted her off his lap and had her seated on the couch, dress pushed up to her hips and her panties tossed somewhere. 59

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He came to kneel in front of her. “Your scent drives me crazy. I must taste you.” Lowering his head, he ran his tongue along the inside of her thigh. “The skin is so soft,” he said before giving it a tiny nibble. Her bottom inched forward and she placed her legs over his shoulders. His fingers trailed along her thigh and then northward. She shivered in anticipation knowing how good it was going to be. The last time he’d pleasured her with his mouth she screamed and was sure she’d woken his neighbours. “You taste so sweet,” he said, lowering his mouth to her inner lips. Running his tongue along them her body sagged into the softness of the leather pillows. He inserted one finger, then a second, massaging her with the right amount of pressure, till she was panting and begging for completion. “Not yet, my beautiful,” he said in a husky tone. And then his tongue replaced his fingers, driving into her, lapping her in the most sensual way. His mouth and tongue made love to her in a way that was so exquisite that she could barely remember her name. When he finally made her come, she cried out at the sheer joy of it. Sagging into the sofa, she took a moment to catch her breath. Her heart thumped against her ribs and her bones were as sturdy as wet papier-mâché. Her dress was stuck to her sweaty skin and all she wanted to do was ditch her outfit and get naked with Diego. Standing on shaky legs, she released the hidden clasp on the side of the dress and then unzipped it, tossing it aside. She stood proudly in front of 60

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Diego in a lacy bra, stockings, and a welcoming smile. “That was amazing but I want more. This time, you’re going to be begging me,” she said before she lowered herself onto his lap and kissed him. His expert fingers removed her bra so she was almost naked. “I’m in charge,” he said in a shaky voice. “Really?” Lily asked, leaning back and giving him an eyeful of breasts. His mouth found a nipple with killer precision. He licked and sucked it till she was panting, while his fingers stroked her intimately. So much for being in charge. Again, he’d reduced her to a mound of goo, knowing exactly how to pleasure her. “Tell me why you left me?” he whispered before suckling on a rosebud nipple. With her mouth parched and dry from crying out his name, her reply was throaty and needy. “You’re asking me that now?” “I don’t want to find you gone tomorrow morning,” he said, massaging her intimately, to prove his point. She gasped at his boldness. “I can’t think when you do that.” “What about when I do this?” He applied pressure to the spot he knew she loved. Her breath hitched and her tongue stuck to her palette. “Tell me.” His voice dropped as his warm breath caressed her ear. “So I can pleasure you again.” His fingers stopped what they were doing and she cried out, wanting more. “Dammit, Diego, you don’t play fair.” 61

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His mouth moved to the other nipple, giving it a tiny nip with his teeth. “I play to win.” She reluctantly stood up, then went on her knees in front of him. “I think I like the sound of this game. If you’re not going to play by the rules, well then neither am I.” With that, she unbuckled his belt and unzipped his pants. She blew him a kiss before running her tongue along his hair roughened chest. And then she went southward. Two could play this game, she grinned to herself, listening to his groans as his fingers massaged her head. And for this round, she was going to win.

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CHAPTER FIVE Lily fell onto the side of the pillow, breathing in gulps of air to slow down the thumpety-thump of her heartbeat. Stealing a look at Diego, she watched him rise from the bed to dispose of the condom before coming to lie next to her. Kissing her shoulder, he murmured, “That was incredible.” She wanted to say something but she was still in a haze of the most earth-shattering orgasm she’d ever experienced. If she’d thought their first night together was amazing, this was even better. With her breathing now steady, she looked at the gorgeous man lying next to her who’d pleasured her in ways that she could only have dreamt about. It may be trite but it was the truth. “What we just did—” “Was amazing,” he whispered into her ear before running his tongue around the rim. “You’re insatiable.” She playfully punched his arm. “You do this to me, I can’t get enough of you,” he said, pulling the covers up around them. 63

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“I need to be honest, I’ve never had a one-night stand before, I’m not really sure of the etiquette,” she confessed, her fingertips tracing the discs of his flat nipples. “Is that why you left last time?” He pressed a kiss to her forehead. “I thought you’d be relieved not to find me here,” she said in a soft voice, continuing to trail her fingers along the ridges of his abs. “I wanted you again that morning.” Again? His confession made her tummy flip-flop. “I can’t get enough of you.” His hand cupped her breast and teased the nipple to a bud with light strokes of his finger. He shifted so his mouth could claim the hard bud in his mouth, lavishing it with his tongue. “Your skin tastes so sweet.” “I’ve barely recovered from what you just did to me and you’re ready again.” She felt his erection nudge her thigh. He moved so he was on top of her, kissing her mouth, her neck, her breast. “Promise me you’ll stay. Promise me you’ll attend functions with me.” With her head pressing into the pillow and his fingers pleasuring her with gentle strokes, she moaned in reply. The man was an incredible lover and she couldn’t say no. “And every night, you will be here with me calling out my name.” He quickly sheathed himself and then slid into her so they were one. She sighed with the perfect completeness of them coming together. He moved slowly, his hard length filling her. She wanted to hold him tight 64

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and capture the exquisiteness of the moment. “Yes, yes,” she said. His autocratic nature, in bed and out, gave his personality a sexy edge. No wonder she’d been attracted to him. Not having had many boyfriends over the years, she hadn’t realised sex could be this good. Feeling sexy and confident, with him, had resulted in her trying different positions. Already she was contemplating making love to him in the shower, on his kitchen bench, and on the balcony outside. “You’ve unleashed a side of me I didn’t know existed.” She breathed into his ear. “You honour me with your trust.” He pressed his mouth against hers. “Let me show you again how magnificent you are.” He withdrew, teasing her before plunging in and making her sob for the sheer joy of it. They made love slowly till his long strokes tipped her over the edge and she cried out his name.

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In the early hours of the morning, he took her home, walking her to the door. “I have an art exhibition to attend tonight, I’ll pick you up at seven.” With her back against the door, he pressed hot kisses along her jaw and down her neck. “See you later,” he said, taking a step back and watching her unlock the door on unsteady legs and make her way inside. Hours later, she stared at her reflection, wearing yet another of her mother’s vintage dresses. Tonight’s number was a 1960s sheath dress in emerald green that suited her 65

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slim frame and the colour suited her red hair. The doorbell chimed and she grabbed her purse and made her way to the door. Too late. Diego was already being sized up by her brothers. The men shook hands, introducing themselves. “Boys,” she called to her brothers. “I’ll see you later.” They said goodbye to Diego, returning to the living room, and she just stared at him. Black jeans, black shirt, black leather jacket. The look was edgy and lethal. Times like this, she wanted to pinch herself that this was not a dream and she was seeing a guy that was not only smoking hot but incredible in bed. He handed her long-stemmed red roses, wrapped in paper and tied together with a silk ribbon. She’d never received such a beautiful bouquet and she breathed in their delicate scent. “These are lovely, thank you.” She kissed his mouth. “I’ll just put them in a vase.” He followed her to the kitchen and she turned to him, smiling. “I can manage on my own.” “I know you can, but I want to kiss you,” he said in a low voice. “I kissed you, you’ve got lipstick on your lips.” She placed the flowers on the bench. “I meant a kiss like this.” Taking a step closer, he cupped her cheeks and pressed his mouth against hers. He kissed her again and again till she was breathing hard and ready to tug him to her bedroom. Not even caring that her brothers were nearby and could walk in any moment. Looking at her reflection in the glass door of the oven, 66

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she gasped. “Oh. My God. Look at me.” “You look beautiful,” he said, seemingly not caring that her mouth resembled a toddler’s who’d found and played his mother’s lipstick. “Go reapply it, I’ll wait,” he said, removing a clean white hanky from his pocket to clean his lips. “And don’t forget to bring an overnight bag, you won’t be sleeping here tonight.” He gave her bottom a playful smack. A few minutes later, she emerged from her room, her makeup fixed and beautifully applied. “Come on,” he said, taking her arm in his. “You look gorgeous with and without smudged lipstick.” The art exhibition was being held in a gallery in one of Melbourne’s trendy inner city suburbs where an eclectic mix of people lived. Walking in, Lily resisted the urge to giggle. The event was what she imagined of people in the art world. Everyone in dark colours, drinking champagne, and critiquing the large paintings on the walls. “I must have missed the invitation with the dress code of black,” she said, rolling her eyes. The bold colour of her green dress and the harsh lighting made her stand out even more against the guests in black. “We’re here for my cousin, Valentina, she’s an artist and this is her first show,” Diego said as a gorgeous woman in her early twenties approached them. Dressed in black with her long hair in a high ponytail, she greeted them with a flourish of kisses. Valentina’s smile was wide. “Thanks for coming. I’m so nervous. Can you believe how many people came?” She 67

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prattled off a number of names expecting they would know the people. Lily assumed they were critics or people well regarded in the industry. “I need to speak to Blake.” She leaned up on tippy-toes and kissed Diego’s cheek. She whispered, “Thanks for everything.” Lily and Diego, holding hands, moved around the gallery looking at the paintings. With the strategic lighting, each came alive under Valentina’s artistic brush strokes. They stopped in front of a large piece. Lily stared at the slashes of colour and the bold design of the evocative piece. “She’s very talented.” “She is.” He nodded approvingly. Turning to him she asked, “Why did she thank you?” “You’re very inquisitive, hermosa,” he replied, his hand snaking around her waist to rest on her hip. Her belly did a flip-flop, as it always did when he spoke to her in that deep, sexy voice. God, she loved the sultriness his Spanish accent made to his voice. “Just asking,” she said. “Is it a national secret?” “No.” He chuckled. “I wanted the right people to be here tonight, not just the freeloaders.” He jerked his head in the direction of people helping themselves to the food buffet. She punched his arm. “You big softie. You called in favours.” He grinned. “Shhh. I have a reputation to maintain as a ruthless entrepreneur.” “And we wouldn’t want to spoil your image now, would 68

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we?” She ran her fingers down the side of his face. “What you did tonight, was really nice.” They continued to look at the remaining pieces, handin-hand. She stopped in front of a small painting, mesmerised by the textures and the splashes of paint. Drawn and unable to take her eyes off it, she stared at the swirls of colour. “What do you like about it?” Diego asked. “It’s speaking to me. I see something inside that has exploded outward, delighting in new found freedom,” she admitted in a low voice, not wanting any of the arty attendees to ridicule her insights. He brushed his lips against hers. “No wonder you like it, it’s just like you. After all these years, you’re embracing a new life as a beautiful, confident woman. You’ve raised LJ and Jake, and now it’s time for you to travel, be your own person.” He lowered his voice to whisper in her ear, “And have great sex.” Her toes curled in her heels. “You’re pretty perceptive for a bloke.” “I’ll take that as a compliment.” He gave her a wink. Grabbing two flutes of champagne, he handed one to her. “To the new Lily.” Their glasses clinked and she took a long sip. “And tell me about the new Lily. What are her plans?” he asked, leaning forward. They moved to a darkened corner and she decided to be upfront. If she could do what she did in bed with him last night, she could certainly be honest and truthful. “I met this 69

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guy,” she started. “And he’s really great in bed and I want to have lots of sex with him, before I travel overseas.” A serious look crossed his face. “If this guy is so great, why are you travelling?” “Because, I’m not changing my plans for a bloke who doesn’t believe in love.” His brow lifted as though he didn’t believe her. “Really?” “My parents loved each other. Sure, they had disagreements, but I have fond memories of my dad bringing home flowers for my mum, for no reason. He kissed her every day, before he went to work and every night when he came home.” She paused as the beautiful memories washed over her. “I want that.” A silence hung between them before Diego broke it. “I can only give you short term.” She nodded slowly. “I know, that suits me, besides I’d be a fool to fall for you.” “You know how to wound me.” He placed his hand over his heart in a dramatic way. “You’ve been honest with me, you want to settle down, have a family. I really don’t want that. Besides, I just want you for your great body.” She ran her fingertips down his torso, to emphasise her point. He’d break her heart. She would be a fool to fall for him. Sure, he was great in bed, but she wanted more. She wanted romance, silly phones messages, spur of the moment kisses, and a commitment of love. Diego couldn’t give her that. Once her contract finished in the next few weeks with Deena, she’d be free to do what she always wanted. To be by herself. 70

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“Ready for dinner?” he asked. She gulped away all the emotion ricocheting in her tummy. “I would like that.” “Back in a minute.” He pressed his lips to the sensitive spot behind her ear. Walking around, she sidled up to a group pretending to look at art as she listened to their views on one of the larger paintings. Art critics, she supposed. Crossing her fingers, she hoped tonight would give Valentina the success she deserved. “Let’s go.” Diego came from behind, and looped his arm around her waist. “Shouldn’t we say goodbye to Valentina?” “She’s busy,” he added with a dismissive wave of his hand. “Besides, my family will be here soon.” “Oh no.” Concern spiked her belly. Camilla. His mother. They would take one look at her and Diego and know. Her cheeks warmed and she looked up at him. “Is there an exit at the back?” He chuckled before a loud voice made him turn around. “Too late.” Taking her hand, they walked over to his family, greeting them. Camilla sidled up to her. “Just friends, huh?” She lifted a perfectly groomed eyebrow. Wagging her eyebrows, a la Groucho Marx, she indulged in a private laugh with Camilla hoping to distract her. It’s not like she could tell her the truth. Soon enough, they were able to escape. Diego placed his arm around her shoulders and brought her toward him. The 71

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warmth of his body was reassuring and comforting. They walked along the footpath busy with people coming from work and others enjoying an early evening walk. “I love the mix of shops here, such an interesting mix of fashion, homewares and cafés,” she gushed as they stood admiring the window display of vintage homewares in a boutique. Within minutes they found themselves outside a large, busy vegetarian restaurant. “I’ve heard this place is great.” “Let’s try it,” he said, opening the door for her. They made their way upstairs, past the noise from university students and families with children, all enjoying their dinner. They found a small table upstairs on the balcony, which gave them some privacy, away from the noise and chatter. Music could be faintly heard from a nearby store and an occasional tram rocked by. “Do you want to share some dishes?” “I’d love it,” she said. He could’ve asked her to join him for sex on the table and she would’ve agreed. Her usual calm approach to life had disappeared under the flurry of multiple orgasms and confessions. “Do you trust me?” She blew him a kiss. “I trusted you last night.” He groaned. “Lily, you’re killing me. We’re in a restaurant and all I want to do is taste you.” He gulped down the glass of water on the table. “We need to eat.” Then lowering his voice, he declared, “Then I’m taking you 72

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home and making you come again and again and again.” She fanned herself with her hand. “We should stick to subjects that do not work up our libidos. Deal?” She raised her brow questioningly. “Deal.” He grinned in return. A waiter came to their table and Diego ordered a bottle of wine and a number of dishes. Closing the menu, he handed it to the waiter and leaned back in his chair. “Thank you for tonight,” Lily said. “I really liked Valentina’s art, she’s very talented.” “I’m glad.” He gave her a lazy smile. “I bought you the painting you liked.” “What?” She all but yelled. “No, you didn’t have to.” She didn’t want him to buy things for her because that would mean they were in a relationship. She wanted to keep it as sex-only between them. Anything more and it would get messy, complicated. He scowled with frustration. “I thought you liked it?” “I do like it. I just…I just want to keep things simple between us.” She drew in a deep breath. “You want the perfect wife to settle down with. I want to travel and then try and start up a new career.” She had to keep emotional distance from him and not get heavily involved. Despite the short time they’d been back together, she knew he had the ability to shred her heart into splinters. Look at him. Helping out his sister, his cousin, his family. She could easily fall for him. Best she didn’t. “You just want me for my body?” he said, a twinkle in his smile. 73

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“Pretty much.” She was glad the conversation wasn’t going to get heavy. “Is that okay?” “I like women who know what they want,” he added before being interrupted by the waiter. Diego looked at the wine before it was uncorked and it was poured into two glasses. Lifting his glass, he said, “Salud.” They clinked glasses and tasted the rich wine. “What do you think?” She was interested in what an expert thought of it. It tasted pretty good to her. “I like it,” he said, swilling the glass around and taking another sip. “Just so you know, Valentina was delighted you’ll be receiving the painting, especially after I told her how much you like it.” Gulping down some more wine, she slowly relaxed. Either the confession, the wine, or a combination of both had helped. The arrival of the pan-fried mushrooms sizzling with garlic and goats cheese was a welcome interruption. “I promise not to buy you anything else unless you say it’s okay,” he said. “Thank you,” she replied, spearing a piece of mushroom and eating it. “Have you worked out a date when you’ll be leaving?” His brow lifted before he ate another mushroom. “As soon as my contract with Deena finishes. I’ve got to wrap up the charity event and complete all the tasks on her to-do list. She’s very good to work with.” She paused. “I’ll need a bit of time to pack, organise things for the boys, and then I’ll be off.” 74

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“Where to?” he asked, taking a sip of wine. “America. My dream is to visit New Orleans, listen to jazz, and then see all the sights in New York.” “Anything else?” “I thought that once I’m there, I’ll travel around. There’s so much to see. Washington, Niagara Falls. I’ve never been out of Australia before, I still can’t believe I’m doing this,” she admitted. “I think it’s great,” he said, flaunting a genuine smile. “You’re following your heart and living your dream.” He paused. “How about after dinner to celebrate you living your dream, I take you to the best gelataria in Melbourne?” “That would be great.” She smiled warmly at him. Leaning forward, he brushed his lips against her ear and whispered, “I’m looking forward to enjoying our dessert” —he paused for dramatic effect— “in bed.” She shivered in anticipation. She. Could. Not. Wait.

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CHAPTER SIX Diego’s heart pounded so hard against his chest, he was sure it was going to burst out. His self-control was hanging on by a cobweb. With Lily’s hands gripping the bed-head, her head buried in the pillow and her mewling cries had him praying he wouldn’t explode too soon. The sex was wild, uninhibited. His fingers gripped her hips. Her unique smell of wild flowers mixed with the scent of their lovemaking was intoxicating. “Don’t stop, don’t stop,” she begged. He sent a prayer of thanks when her muscles contracted around him and she screamed out his name. Finally. He surged into her one last time, coming with such intensity that his knees wobbled. His breathing was ragged and he collapsed on top of her. They remained joined together until his legs were steady enough for him to stand and dispose of the condom. 76

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He fell on the bed next to her before pressing a kiss to her shoulder and one to the pulse point on her neck. “That was fantastic.” She gulped some air. “Can I get a drink of water?” “Of course,” he said and pressed his mouth against hers. “Find something for us to watch. I’ll be back soon.” He tossed her the TV remote before getting out of bed and padding toward the kitchen. A minute later he returned with the gelati, two spoons, and a bottle of mineral water. She growled with frustration. “I can’t work out how to start up your state of the art system. Why doesn’t this have a simple on/off button?” She tossed the electrical device on the bed. He opened one of the tubs, filled the spoon with chocolate ice cream. She opened her mouth when he deliberately spilt it on her naked breast. “You beast, that’s cold.” She squealed. He ran his tongue along her skin, licked the gelati on her skin before his cold mouth closed over a nipple. “You are so bad,” she said in an all-knowing voice. “You have no idea how bad I can be,” he said, swirling his cold tongue over the raspberry bud.

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Much later, they lay in bed watching When Harry Met Sally. “Have you seen it?” she asked. “It’s my favourite movie.” Turning to look at her, his brow lifted, he said, “Do I look like the kind of bloke who’d sit through a chick movie?” 77

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She giggled at the image of Diego enjoying romances. “It’s very clever and well written. At the beginning Harry says women and men can’t be friends.” She paused. “What do you think?” “Perhaps?” he said, shrugging with indifference. “I could never be friends with you.” “Why not?” She was very interested to know why. “Because the sex would get in the way.” She gasped then lightly punched his arm. “You have seen the movie.” Grinning, he brushed his lips against hers. “I just looked up the movie online, my beautiful.” “You tell me I’m beautiful all the time but I’ve never felt it,” she confessed in a low voice. “But you are,” he said, his eyes wide with surprise. “When I was at school, I was called Stick because I was tall and skinny. The red hair didn’t help.” “Kids can be cruel. You’re not a stick, you’re beautiful, every inch of you.” “You should know since you’ve kissed every inch of me,” she said with a brash smile. “What about you? Were you teased at school?’ “A little. We came to Australia when I was ten and I didn’t speak English. The first few months were tough but then it got easier. I made friends and learned Australian football.” “Well, this is Victoria. We’re football mad here,” she added in an all-knowing tone. “So why leave Argentina?” Clearing his throat before fiddling with his mobile 78

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phone, he said, “My uncle, my dad’s brother, came here years ago. We were poor and at the time Australia needed migrants. He got a job working at a vineyard.” “He had experience with wine making?” “No, but he was good with his hands and could fix fences, build steps, grow plants. You get the gist. Anyway, he loved working there and soon enough met an Australian woman, got married and had kids.” He paused and ran his fingers through his hair. “But then his wife got sick. Cancer. Treatment didn’t help and she died. My uncle was a mess and needed help. “My father and his brother were close. So we moved here. It helped that he sponsored us.” Shock made her sit straighter. “Just like that? Your dad moved you all from Argentina to Australia to help your uncle and work in wine.” “My uncle, Ignatio, needed help,” he started to explain. “But to move you all here?” she asked, unable to believe the decisions made to help family. Unwarranted envy crept along her arms, wishing she had had a smidgen of what Diego’s father had done for his brother. How she would’ve loved a bit of support from friends when her parents had died. Pushing away the jealousy, she focussed on him and the rest of the story. Diego continued. “My mother helped raise his children. Valentina is the youngest, she’s like my sister.” “No wonder your family is so close.” She breathed out conclusively. “You’re all so lucky to have one another.” 79

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Shrugging off her compliment, he said, “It’s what family do.” She crinkled her brow, wanting to know more. “What happened to your uncle? Did he remarry?” “No,” he said in a grim tone, the skin around his jaw tight with animosity. “It’s hard to compete with the dead.” Her hand flew up to her mouth, surprised at the bitterness in his reply. “That’s mean. He must have loved his wife a lot.” “Whatever,” he muttered, low under his breath. She reflected on what he’d just said before asking, “Do you blame your uncle for you having to move here? It wasn’t his fault his wife died.” His face drew a blank look, making her frustrated at his ability to categorise something so complex. “You’re very judgemental,” she flung at him. “So what that he married for love, is that so bad?” Diego remained tight-lipped and the fun from the movie to the gelati to the art exhibition evaporated with a reliving of a tumultuous time from years gone by. Obviously, the change had impacted him more than he wanted to admit. She observed his fisted hands and the brooding lines across his brow. “I think it’s time for me to go home.” He tugged her close. “You’re staying here.” Anchoring her to him, his lips trailed kisses along her neck till she sagged against him and eventually fell into a deep sleep.

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The next few days were spent at work, and she and Diego passed the nights in bed finding new ways to pleasure each other. Saturday morning, the day was mild and warm for Autumn. The sun shining and a whole day stretching ahead of them, they ventured outside. After breakfast at a local café, they walked around Albert Park lake. “I often run around the lake on days like this,” he said, holding her hand as they made their way around the pathway. “I can understand, it’s beautiful here. Everyone else seems to have the same idea.” She gestured toward the number of walkers and joggers out in the sunshine. “I couldn’t run after that massive breakfast.” She smiled at him. After completing the five kilometre circuit they decided to head to the South Melbourne market but were interrupted by a fit, healthy-looking gentleman who looked to be in his sixties. “Excuse me, we need an extra couple for our croquet tournament, would you care to join us?” Lily and Diego exchanged a smile. “Why not?” Lily said. “But we don’t know how to play.” “Even better,” the man replied, giving her a wink. “We’re very competitive.” The man, who introduced himself as Richard, introduced them to the three other couples. They were the fourth. Hands were shaken and warm smiles exchanged before Richard explained, “Croquet can be played with two 81

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or four players. Our rules have two games with each team playing.” “Is there a prize for the winner?” Diego enquired. “No. The losing couple has to feed the others.” He chuckled. “Doris and I lost last week so we’ve prepared this week’s afternoon tea. The losers from this week feed us next week.” “I like the sound of that.” Diego patted his flat belly. “We play Aussie croquet.” Richard gave them a quick rundown of hitting the ball through a course of six hoops. Then there was a detailed explanation of the dos/don’ts of the game. “Who knew croquet was so complex? I thought this was going to be fun.” Lily sighed. “This is fun. But I have a feeling they’re hoping we’ll lose and do the catering next week.” He leaned forward and whispered in her ear, “I learnt to play at school. Let’s go win.” He grabbed a mallet and walked with confidence to where the others were. The afternoon passed in a haze of shared laughter and practised hits over the smooth green grass. Lily hit the ball and it went nowhere near where she intended it to go. “Looks like I better start working out what to bake.” Despite Diego’s good shots, they lost. Richard came to clap her on the back. “Good job. And don’t worry about next week. The couple who missed out will have to organise the afternoon tea. Now I hope you two will stay. Doris makes the best scones.” He patted his belly. 82

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“I’m lucky to have a wife who cooks so well,” he said with a grin. “Come and sit down.” Richard directed them to a shady picnic spot. Half an hour later, Lily and Diego walked hand in hand to his apartment. “Sorry I let the team down,” Lily said. “You did a good job today, for a novice,” he clarified. “I can’t remember having fun like this for a long time.” He lifted her hand to kiss the knuckles. “Thank you.” “You’re welcome. It was fun even though everyone was old enough to be my parents.” He stopped to look at her. “This is what I want. I want to play games with my children, be outdoors with them.” Despite the sunshine she shivered. “Do you want me to leave, give you space to find the perfect wife?” “Don’t be like that, Lily. I really like being with you and I thought you liked being with me. I’m yours till you leave.” He kissed the tip of her nose. “You told me you wanted us to be short term, a fling or whatever you want to call it.” He was right, again. This is what she wanted. A great guy to be with, without any worries of commitment. Her heart sank at the realisation. Soon Diego would be dating women who he wanted. It made sense now. Why waste time dating someone who had no intention of getting married? Someone like her. They’d been upfront with each other. Honest. And that was good till she left for overseas. The idea of getting married filled her with dread. How could she travel and be independent if she married, settled down, had children. She’d become resentful to her husband 83

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and children for holding her back and not allowing the opportunity to reach for the stars and attain her dream. Her dream of singing professionally. Diego was right. She’d got what she wanted and should be happy about it.

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CHAPTER SEVEN “I know you told me not to buy you anything but you needed a dress,” Diego said, pressing a kiss to her bare shoulder. “You look incredible.” “This is not a dress, it’s a showstopper!” Lily said, taking another peek of herself in the mirror, still unable to believe the work of art she was wearing. The boning in the gold, strapless dress even gave her cleavage. Bonus! “Whatever,” he said in a casual manner, more interested in the skin the dress exposed than what she was saying. Using his fingers, he gently pushed her hair to the side and kissed the length of her neck, all the way to her bare shoulder. “Magnífico.” Her pulse began to race. “We’d better leave now before I get ideas of peeling the dress off you.” He handed her the complimenting purse. “Just so you know, the hidden zipper is here on the side.” She lifted her arm to show him. “You need to undo 85

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the hook-and-eye first. I don’t want you ruining this beautiful dress.” She stole another look in the mirror. “I feel as glamorous as a movie star.” She turned to him. “It’s pretty early to be going out, where are we going?” It was late afternoon on Sunday, the day after the croquet contest. They’d spent the weekend together and she’d been surprised when Diego announced they were going out. She expected they’d stay in, watching a movie before making love. “This is my surprise for you.” He grinned. “I’ve booked one of my wine bars for you, you’re going to sing. I can’t wait to see you shine, achieve your dream. Your friends and family will be there to support you.” His eyes sparkled with the incorrect assumption that this was what she wanted. “You didn’t warn me,” she said. “And don’t be smug about having paid a fortune for me.” “I won’t.” He paused. “But I thought this is what you wanted. An opportunity to showcase your talent. But if you don’t want to, I’ll cancel it. You don’t have to do it.” He brushed his lips against hers. “I’ll give you some time to think.” He walked out, closing the door behind him with a gentle click.

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“This will be worse than the auction,” she said carefully, tottering in her new heels along the cobblestone laneway. He grinned in reply and gripped her hand tightly as they made their way toward the wine bar. Sanchez. The name was discreetly displayed at the entrance and a bouncer stood 86

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at the entrance, a clipboard in hand. “Good evening.” Diego acknowledged with a tilt of his head to the other man, who unclipped the red rope allowing them to pass through. “Mister Sanchez. They’re expecting you inside.” Inside the doorway she froze. Her shoes were glued to the floor and her heart hammered so hard she was sure Diego could hear it. “I want to do this, but I’m scared.” “You can do it,” he said with firm determination. “You have three hours to meet the band and do a warm up.” Her eyes widened in relief. He’d thought of everything. They stopped in front of a small stage where three men were chatting, obviously at ease with each other. “Gents.” He cleared his throat. “This is Lily.” The musicians turned toward them. “Lily, these are three of Melbourne’s finest jazz musicians.” Diego gestured toward them. Diego introduced them and they each stepped forward and shook her hand. Her mind spun, still quite unable to believe she’d be performing with them. She knew them and a moment of panic gripped her as she wondered if she’d be good enough. Brushing her ear with his lips, he whispered, “You’ll be great.” How did he know she needed that support? She didn’t care. What she did care about was that she stood straighter in her heels and felt a burst of energy shoot through her. Aged somewhere in their fifties, the men were all dressed in black. They and the darkened room only heightened how 87

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self-conscious she was in her dazzling, gold dress. The pianist chirped up. “We’ll do two sets, with a break in between.” He handed her a foolscap piece of paper with a list of song titles. Recognising many, her heartbeat quickened in anticipation of singing some of her favourite songs. “Choose six songs to start with,” the pianist instructed. “Tell us if you want to sing it soulful or upbeat and we’ll go from there.” She’d forgotten Diego was there till he let go of her hand. She suddenly missed the comforting warmth. “Go and have fun,” he whispered. He pressed a hot, lingering kiss to her cheek. “You’ll do great.”

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Up on stage the spotlight bore down on her, burning its way to her eye sockets. Walking carefully in new heels she expelled her nerves with a long breath. It didn’t help. The blinding light did have a positive effect as it ensured she couldn’t see many of the guests sitting around the small tables. Plastering a smile on her face, Lily stood in front of the microphone. With the band’s encouragement and support she was prepared and ready to sing. She could do this, she reassured herself, not looking at the size of the audience. The pianist made the introductions before she gripped the microphone with both hands and said, “Thanks. It’s great to be singing with such talent.” She turned toward each of the musicians and gave them and acknowledging smile. 88

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The pianist gave her an encouraging smile before playing an intro and within seconds the two other members had joined in. She could hear the catcalls and wolf whistles from her brothers but she kept her attention steady and focussed on the Sinatra favourite she was about to belt out. Three. Two. One. Show time.

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Diego lifted his wine glass, savouring the rich plum and berry fruit flavours, perfectly completed by soft tannins of the Shiraz, before silently congratulating himself. He’d done it. Lily was on stage singing in front of a welcoming crowd, performing as if she did this every night. The lighting bounced off her dress, creating sparkling stars around the dark walls of the wine bar. Her voice was a delight to listen to, clear focussed. He took a moment for his gaze to feast on her delectable figure encased in gold as she finished yet another song. “Lily is amazing. I had no idea she could sing like that,” Camilla said as Eduardo nodded in agreement. “I love those old tunes.” Camilla sighed. “Don’t you?” Diego was about to agree when he realised the question was aimed at Eduardo, not him. Eduardo murmured a reply before Camilla playfully punched his arm. “Eduardo, you’re the best friend I could ever have,” she exclaimed as she leaned over and gave him a sisterly kiss on the cheek. Diego watched the display of affection between the two. 89

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They’d been friends since they were babies and dancing partners for years. For such a smart young woman, Camilla was daft at relationships especially when she couldn’t see Eduardo’s love for her. Watching the two of them was a spectator sport that Diego often found amusing. But not tonight. If Eduardo didn’t confess his feelings soon, Diego was going to make him do it. He was protective of his younger sister, only wanting the best for her. He made a mental note to speak with Eduardo later. Enough was enough. “What you did tonight was so sweet.” Camilla’s voice broke his thoughts. Sweet? “Sweet?” Diego’s head turned slightly and he shot his sister a dark look. “Don’t give me that look. You’re a softie underneath all that business acumen.” He shook his head. “I’m not sweet.” He spat out the word as if his sister had accused him of a heinous crime. “I won this performance at the celebrity auction, you know that.” “You’re such a first-born,” Camilla said with a dismissive wave of her hand. Turning to Eduardo she said, “Did you know Diego organised this in three days?” Her arm swung out to emphasis her point. “Your wine bar turned out to be an excellent venue for Lily’s debut performance,” Eduardo said. “How did you organise the musicians?” His sister answered on his behalf, making him scowl. 90

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“You know what he’s like. He always gets what he wants.” Camilla laughed at her own quip. Diego threw her a glare. “First, don’t answer my questions and second, don’t talk about me when I’m sitting here.” Camilla laughed. “Whatever.” Lily finished the song and they all clapped. His sister elbowed him in the ribs. “You’re like a lovestruck teen with your tongue hanging out.” Diego looked at her through narrowed eyes. “My tongue is not hanging out.” Camilla replied by poking her tongue at him. She leaned forward. “I see the two of you, you’re good together. But the way you look at her—” “That’s none of your business,” he snapped. He didn’t need his sister and her babble. Camilla turned her back to her brother and spoke to Eduardo. “I think Lily and I will get on great as sisters although Mama was hoping he’d marry Candela, your sister’s friend.” Eduardo shot Diego a grin that he did not return. Diego clenched his fist and felt his knuckles crack. “Can you stop gossiping? I’m not marrying Lily. Where do you get these ideas?” “From you.” Camilla chirped back. “I’ve seen how you look at her. You bid for her at the auction and now look what you did.” Her arm swept around, indicating the room. “Not only did you hire out your own wine bar, but you made sure her friends and family would be here.” She 91

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paused. “Only someone in love would do that,” she said in a low but all-knowing voice. In love? Diego felt an arrow of angst shoot through his lungs, puncturing and deflating them. “You’re wrong.” Camilla leaned back into her seat and crossed her arms across her chest. “No I’m not,” she replied, a smug smile firmly in place across her lips. I’m not in love. This is not love. The room that had been comforting and cosy now felt claustrophobic. Diego took a gulp of wine, the blackberrycoloured liquid burning its way to his belly. Ridiculous. “This is not love. Do I need to spell it out for you?” he fired back at his sister. “I’m helping her. It’s what I do.” Without taking a breath he said, “Who cancelled an important meeting to assist your class when Eduardo was sick?” “You did.” The playful look that had recently adorned her face was now gone and Camilla chewed her lip. “Why did we move to Australia?” “Because Uncle Ignatio needed us.” She blinked rapidly. “Are you angry at Papa? I thought you were happy here?” “I’m not angry about moving here, but I’m showing you how our family works. It’s in our blood.” Camilla fiddled with her drink. “Sorry, I thought you really liked her. You seem like a good match.” 92

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Diego scoffed at her romantic dreams, they matched Lily’s. He and Lily were sensational in bed. But unlike her, he wanted to settle down and start a family. Lily didn’t want that. Her newly created independence and career were important to her. He respected that. But he certainly wasn’t going to tell his sister that. He and Lily weren’t alike. Sure they liked the same kind of movies. Last night he’d been happy when she’d selected a political thriller for them to watch. They exercised together, either walking or jogging. He dismissed that with a pfft. He was sure when he started dating he’d find other women who he shared common interests with. His gaze returned to the stage and he watched Lily belt out a popular 1940s big band tune. She really was sensational. Could it be he was developing feelings for her? A taut nerve quivered in his forehead and rubbed the annoyance away. They’d only been together just over one week. Too soon for feelings to have developed. His mind wandered back eight years when he’d been younger and foolish, falling hard and fast for a woman. The sour memories turned his stomach to lead. He hadn’t thought about Laura and her lies for years. Running his finger around his throat, he was surprised to find the top two buttons were undone. He stood abruptly. The chair he’d been sitting on fell backward to the floor, which he ignored. He drained the remainder of his wine in two large gulps. “Lily and I are seeing each other till she goes overseas. Keep 93

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your romantic dreams to yourself.” He didn’t wait for her reply but stalked off toward the exit as though the spirits from Hades were chasing him.

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CHAPTER EIGHT Had truer words ever been written? Had the popular song “Swinging on a Star” been written for her? It certainly felt like it as the comical lyrics resonated with her. The song spoke to her, told her to stop making excuses and take responsibility. She could do it. She could swing on a star if she wanted. What a night. Performing had been akin to having a bolt of electricity pumped through her. Never more had she wanted to jump into the air and throw her arms up high. Initial nerves had melted away as she’d focussed on each song. Forgetting the crowd, the band had been incredible, encouraging as they worked their way through the selection of songs. The second set couldn’t have come quick enough. The urge to sing more had gripped her hard and she hadn’t wanted to leave the stage. Singing tonight had changed her life. Not only performing in front of a crowd, but her 95

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perspective had changed. Amazing how a single event could make her see things from an opposing perspective. And it was all thanks to Diego. How much had he done for her? It was almost overwhelming. An urgent need to see him and thank him pressed heavily against her. With her head still dizzy and her legs trembling, Lily walked down stage steps, clutching the bar for support. Her brother, Jake, embraced her in a tight bear hug. “Lil, that was brilliant. I’m so proud of you.” He kissed the top of her head before his older brother by five minutes, LJ, pushed in. “I’m speechless. You’re always singing around the house but your performance tonight was incredible. I’ve videoed you and we’re going to put it on YouTube.” Friends stood around congratulating her performance and before long her face ached from the wide smile she couldn’t remove. She nodded, thanking everyone, and her eyes flicked around the crowd searching for the one person she wanted to see. Where was Diego? Her tummy fluttered nervously as she scanned the room. He wouldn’t have left her, surely? Excusing herself, she strode around the small space of the club and when she didn’t find him, headed for the exit. Was he outside? An anxious knot of foreboding twisted inside her belly but she dismissed it. Tonight had been a success. She was a success. With a bounce in her step she sauntered down the steps. Carefully tottering in her heels, she walked along the uneven cobblestones in the lane way. 96

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Then she saw him, on the phone. She waved but he didn’t acknowledge her. “Diego?” Drawing closer to him, she saw him abruptly end the call before shoving his mobile into the pocket of his trousers. His eyes were dark and foreboding. Her smile faltered slightly. She closed the distance between them. “I was looking for you.” “And now you’ve found me.” “Is there something wrong?” She reached out to run her finger gently along the smoothness of his jaw. “No.” “Tonight was the best night of my life. I can’t thank you enough. I don’t know how you did it but it was amazing. Thank you, thank you.” She threw her arms around his neck and pressed her lips against his. She kissed him till she felt his rigid stance soften. “You’re welcome.” His hands settled on her hips. “You did great.” He brushed his lips across her forehead. “Ready to go?” “I want to go back to everyone, I’m literally bouncing off the walls.” He gave her bottom a playful smack. “Go back. I’ll take you home later.” “Is everything okay?” she asked, noting the stiffness in his shoulders. “Of course,” he said in a reassuring tone that didn’t reassure her. “I’ll be in soon.”

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Two long days had passed. His hand hovered over the phone before he reminded himself. Do. Not. Call. Lily. It was time to cool things between them. They were spending too much time together and he was still in a foul mood over Camilla’s taunts. So instead of working on the spreadsheet in front of him, why was he thinking about Lily? Lily and her glorious titan hair spread over his pillow wearing nothing but her lacy panties. He needed to focus on work. His sister’s words continued to ring in his ears. Mocking him. Laughing at him. He wasn’t in love. His sister was being ridiculous with her “pie in the sky” ideas. He’d show her that he was right and she wasn’t. Ridiculous! He rubbed his fingers along the stubble of his jaw. If Camilla was so clever, she’d see her long-time friend and dance partner Eduardo was in love with her. Had been for some time. So who was she to tell him he was in love? Besides, you didn’t fall in love with someone in one week. Love took time to develop, years to mature. Look at his parents. Look at his grandparents. Love had taken time. He shuddered, remembering his younger, former self. Back then, he didn’t respect traditions and family. But the emotional rollercoaster he’d ridden with Laura was the wakeup call he’d needed. Laura. The name tore through his lungs. How stupid could a man be? He’d been in love, or so he’d thought. Within three months of meeting, she’d been 98

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wearing his ring. Two months later he’d driven to the end of St Kilda pier and flung the modest diamond ring into Port Phillip Bay. Scourging himself of the ring had been cathartic. It also reinforced his belief that he would never fall in love nor would he ever marry for love. Look at the fool he’d been. Leaning back in his chair, he massaged the tightness in his neck. He’d put some space between him and Lily hoping to make things easier but all it had done was make him cranky and angry. He rubbed his eyes, absently. He missed her? No. He was missing the sex. It was the great sex between them, nothing more. Liar! What about the movies? Croquet? Dancing? Dinners? Okay. So he enjoyed her company. So what? The sex was incredible and he liked being with her. Didn’t mean he was in love. In love? Forget it. Half an hour later his fingers itched and he could no longer resist. He reached for his mobile phone and messaged her. Free to go to the movies tomorrow night? He pressed send. He drummed his fingers on the polished oak of his antique desk. Five seconds later he checked again. No reply. His fingers drummed a dozen drumbeats on his desk and still nothing. Diego resisted the urge to check again. The phone would beep when a message arrived. He shoved the mobile into the top drawer of his desk and swivelled around to face his laptop. Time to clear emails. 99

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Lily stared at the message on her phone. Diego wanted to see her? An unexpected urge of longing ran up and down her spine. After dropping her home on Sunday night, she’d resigned herself that Diego was no longer interested. He’d been so aloof despite his generosity and when she hadn’t heard from him, she was sure it was The End. Stupidly, she’d eaten too much chocolate and drunk endless cups of tea. She had to remind herself on a daily basis that they weren’t involved in a meaningful relationship. But then he’d do something really great and it broke down yet another one of her carefully erected defences. Her heartbeat stepped up a notch. What to do? Reply straight away? Wait? Say yes? Say no? Ask why he’d been so aloof on Sunday night? Who knew a fling could be so complicated? She missed being in his arms. She missed the way he was so attentive to her bed. She missed the fun they shared. In all, she missed him. Yes. I’ve missed you! Lily deleted the text. Silly. She was going to scare him off. So she simply replied yes :)

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That night Lily sat in front of the TV waiting for Diego to pick her up. The boys were out so she was alone. She stood, she sat, she watched the clock, she watched the stupid show that was on TV. 100

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With exceptional good looks and confidence to boot, was it any wonder she’d been attracted to him? Not in her league. Besides, he’d been upfront, told her from the beginning their affair would be short. Soon she’d be travelling and would surely meet other handsome men. And when her heartbeat quickened it would confirm what she already knew, Diego was a romantic fantasy. Everyone knew good- looking men made women’s hearts flutter, didn’t they? Her thoughts held her attention longer than the chef demonstrating the Fig and Vanilla Baked Alaska. The doorbell chimed. Finally. A quick flick at her watch told her he was right on time. She opened the front door and her breath stuck in her throat as it always did at the sight of him. Leaning his arm against the doorway, he looked downright dangerous dressed in dark jeans and a black shirt. “Hi,” she said. “Hi,” he replied, his gaze burning into her. They stared at each other, not bothering to hide their hunger. “The boys are out,” she said, her mouth parched and dry. He strode in, kicked the door shut with the back of his foot and gathered her in his arms. Strong fingers tangled in her hair anchoring him to her as his mouth came crashing down on hers. She responded to his kisses and they became more urgent. Their tongues duelled as his hands moved southwards, running up and down her spine before resting on her hips. 101

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“You’re so beautiful,” he whispered, running his tongue along her ear. Anchoring her to him, he pressed against her, his hands cupping her bottom. Her hands slid up and wound themselves around his neck. She wanted to know why she hadn’t heard from him in two days yet all rational thoughts evaporated when he kissed with such urgency and his arousal pressed hard against her belly. She needed him like the air she breathed. When the time came for them to part, she’d deal with the fall-out then, but for now, she wanted him, wanted him with a desperation that shocked her to her core. With fluid motion, he’d stripped her jeans and panties down her legs. She stepped out of them and her ballet flats. “Place your arms around my neck,” he insisted. He placed his hands on her bottom and lifted her with ease so her legs wound around his waist. With the wall supporting her, she rubbed herself wantonly against him and smiled as a guttural groan escaped his lips. “You’re killing me, Lily,” he said, giving her another punishing kiss.

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With her breathing in tatters and her cries for more, Diego wondered if he could last a second longer. He couldn’t get enough of her. Haphazardly, he undid his jeans and with shaky hands managed to push them down his thighs with his boxer briefs. His erection sprang free. 102

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“You ready?” he asked. “Hurry,” she whimpered into his ear. “I want you.” She nipped his ear with her teeth and he grew harder, if that was at all possible. The sex was wild and his focus consisted of being buried in her. He plunged in with little preliminaries. “Diego,” she cried out, making his heart stop. “You okay?” he asked through gritted teeth. “Don’t stop.” She moaned, clutching at his neck. He withdrew slightly and then back in. It felt so darn good, he did it again. And again. And again. He forgot about everything except the blinding need to come. Within seconds he saw stars dance in front of his eyes. Throwing back his head, he roared out her name as his orgasm hit with the force of a semi-trailer. His vision blanked. With his seed spilling into her, his legs gave way and somehow managed to hold her as they collapsed onto the carpet. Every cell in his body tingled from his explosive orgasm. And no wonder. He looked down. He’d forgotten protection. Dear God. Dios Mio. What the hell had he done? His heart stopped. He’d never forgotten to protect his lover! Never! Instead of taking Lily to the movies, he’d had wild sex against the wall. What was the matter with him? He had the manners of a lion. He was supposed to have taken her out and instead he’d taken her without protection. Bile rose in his throat. He disgusted himself. Moving away, he staggered to his feet, struggling to dress. Tugging at his pants and 103

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boxers, he couldn’t look at her. “I’m sorry.” “What’s the matter?” she asked, her voice unexpectantly calm. He stole a glance at her, and a quizzical look passed across her face. His gaze took in her beautiful lips, still swollen from his kisses. He took a step back. “What we just did…” “Was wonderful.” How could she smile when he’d behaved so badly? He ground his teeth together. “I hurt you.” “No, you didn’t.” A wave of dishonour washed over him. He held out his hand and assisted her to a standing position. The smile on her lips disappeared, replaced by a straight line. Worry lines marred her forehead. “Diego, what’s going on?” “I didn’t use a condom,” he confessed as another wave of shame washed over him. Her eyes widened at the realisation. “It’s okay.” She stepped toward him, reaching her hand out to him. “No, it’s not,” he said briskly, still unable to believe what he’d done. “I’m on the Pill,” she said in a calm, low voice. He expelled a hiss. Relief hit him in the solar plexus. So there wasn’t a chance of her getting pregnant, but that didn’t excuse his disgraceful behaviour. She stepped closer and ran the back of her fingers along the side of his face. “What we just shared was amazing.” “I was too rough.” “No, I wanted it as much as you.” 104

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The sex had been mind-blowing. But for a moment then, he’d been totally and completely focussed on his own fulfilment. The blinding need had been so intense, nothing like he’d ever experienced…or would ever again. “I should go.” He moved toward the door. “Don’t go.” She put her hand on his sleeve. “Do we have time to make the movie?” “Lily, I can’t be next to you. Do you honestly think I could sit next to you when I can smell your scent on my skin?” He paused as he saw her flush. Best to be honest. “I don’t trust myself around you.” He ran his hands through his hair. “I came here tonight to take you out on a date. And instead I took you, against the wall, like an animal. I’m sorry.” Her face paled. “I’ll call you later.” He pushed her aside, opened the front door, slammed it shut behind him.

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CHAPTER NINE Lily stared at the closed door. Her skin still tingling from the explosive orgasm that had ripped through her. The pleasure had been so intense that she thought she might faint. Giving herself so completely and utterly had been special, because she loved him. Really loved him. The realisation had hit her as he’d thrust into her; she’d never felt so complete. There was a bond between them. She trusted him implicitly. Had been totally uninhibited. Why? Because she loved him. The answer had been a revelation. It also frightened her. He wanted a wife, but he didn’t want to fall in love. Whereas she wanted it all. Her confession had almost burst from her lips but she’d stopped at the sight of ashen face and slight tremble in his lips. The condom issue had been a big one for him. She instinctively knew he’d marry her, out of duty, if she was pregnant. 106

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But what of his dreams? What about hers? So she’d lied. She knew her cycle and there was no way she’d be pregnant. Telling him she was on the Pill was the right decision. Her heart ached at how their amazing coupling had ended. Instead of time together, she was alone with only her thoughts to keep her company. The following day at work, Deena gave her the end date of her contract. Three days. Three more days of working. During her lunch break, she opened her favourite Internet page. Cheap international flights. She made her selection there and then. Leaving Melbourne, arriving LA. She chose the cheapest airfare, every cent was precious to her. Now booked and paid for her, she leaned back in her chair at the realisation. The realisation that she was finally going to travel overseas and was leaving in two weeks. Two weeks. Her heart skipped in anticipation. She. Could. Not Wait. There was so much to do. So little time.

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The following night, she stood in the kitchen and did a quick check of dinner. All good. The boys were out and she’d planned a special dinner for her and Diego. She wanted him to know that she’d booked her flight, there was an end date to their fling, but most importantly, that she wasn’t pregnant. He needed to know that. 107

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The doorbell chimed. Right on time. As always. Making her way to the front door, she hummed a tune before opening it. Standing there with a bottle of wine in one hand and a bouquet of roses in the other, he gave her a dazzling smile. “Hi.” God, he was gorgeous. He stepped forward and kissed her mouth in a way that said, back off, fellas, she’s mine. If only. He tasted of minty freshness and a hint of coffee. “You look beautiful,” he said, handing her the flowers. Her face warmed at his compliment and she knew she’d miss him when their affair ended. Really miss him. “Come in.” She gestured inside before he closed the door behind them. “Can I get you a drink?” He lifted the bottle in reply. “A crisp white wine.” Following her close, they stopped in the kitchen. He sniffed the air and smiled. “Smells delicious.” His Spanish accent was more noticeable. Tonight was the first time they’d seen each other since he’d hightailed it the other night. They were both on their best behaviour. “Can you get the wine glasses from there?” She pointed to a cabinet. “I’ll put these beautiful flowers in a vase.” Breathing in their scent she said, “Thank you, Diego, they’re stunning.” “My pleasure,” he said. His smile seemed strained, making her wonder if he was still upset about the other night. 108

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Within seconds he’d opened the bottle and poured the golden liquid into two stemmed glasses. “Let’s go outside.” With Melbourne showcasing more glorious Autumn weather, Lily had set up the dinner so they could eat outside. Candles, in glass jars, were strung up around the lemon tree giving the darkened back garden a romantic, cosy look. The candles on the table flickered in the dusk light. “This looks lovely.” With her mother’s best cutlery and crockery, the table was decorated with a hand embroidered cloth, sewn by her maternal grandmother many years ago. Seated at the small table, Lily removed the fine mosquito netting from the table, displaying a number of appetisers. “You’ve gone to a lot of effort,” he said, admiration shining from his eyes at the number of plates decorating the table. His appreciation of her work made the mad rush worth it. “I enjoy cooking.” Taking a small sip of his wine, his gaze returned to her face. “You’re not drinking?” he asked, seemingly absently. She looked at her glass. So caught up in her thoughts, she’d forgotten to drink. She savoured her wine, wondering if he’d been thinking about an unplanned pregnancy…like her. “I’m not pregnant,” she blurted out. Her period had started that morning. “I have to confess, I’m not on the Pill.” She watched his eyes widen with shock. “I’m sorry I lied, but you were so upset the other night, I wanted to 109

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alleviate the stress you were going through. Besides, I know my cycle.” He cleared his throat before gulping down half his glass of wine. “Thank you for your honesty, I’m relieved to hear that.” He cleared his throat again. “It would be a shame for you to get pregnant just when you’re still working out what you want to do in life.” Salty tears welled in her eyes. Here she was thinking he didn’t want a pregnancy and he was thinking about her. A wedge of emotion clogged her throat. It made her love him even more. She shook her head, banishing her silly tears. “Eat, please.” She gestured toward the plates of food already laid out. Why did she have to fall in love with him? Someone so unattainable? There must be plenty of nice men in Melbourne. Why couldn’t she fall in love with one of them? She watched him eat. “Are you still angry with me?” “Of course not. I was angry at myself, not you. Never you.” He lowered his cutlery, placing them on the side of his plate. He took one of her hands in his. “Lily, the other night, I lost control. I was disgusted at myself for not protecting you.” He paused before continuing. “I’ve never had unprotected sex. Forgetting a condom is something that never happens to me.” She rubbed a finger over his knuckles. “What we shared was wild, uninhibited. I’ve never done anything like it and I came so hard and strong, I blanked for a second or so.” “I thought I’d hurt you, that I was too rough.” “You weren’t.” 110

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“I believe you.” He raised her hand to his mouth and kissed the underside of her wrist. He turned his attention to the dinner. “This is delicious.” “Thank you.” They ate the rest of their meal chatting about the news, the weather, goings-on at the wine bars. When they’d finished, she cleared the plates then brought out the dessert together with espresso. “Ta-da.” She lowered the plate to the table. “What is it?” He examined it closely. “Guess?” She bit back an excited grin. “It looks like Torta de chocolinas with dulce de leche.” “It is,” she said with a flourish. “How did—” “I wanted to make you something special. I found the recipe online and the deli near me had all the ingredients,” she said, serving the cake and handing him his coffee. He cut a piece and chewed. “Fantastico. Absolutely delicious.” He ate more. “You’ve managed to get the consistence right with the caramel, chocolate, and biscuit.” He gobbled another large mouthful. “My mother would kill me if she heard me say, but this is as good as hers. It’s excellent.” A warm flush heated her skin. The cake wasn’t an easy one to make, however, she’d found a cheat’s guide online that had helped. He served himself another portion, eating it quickly. A surge of pride warmed her heart, in her ability to create a 111

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dessert he really liked. She’d made it for him and she’d been delighted seeing his enjoyment of it. Watching him finish his cake she said, “I have news.” He raised his eyebrow questioningly. “I’ve booked my ticket to America. I leave in just under two weeks.” Her voice was high pitched with excitement, like her former teenage-self. His raised hand, which was holding his espresso, stilled. He said nothing. Breaking the silence as she always did, with chatter, she continued. “I’ve booked my flight to LA except the return one. I’m hoping to be away for at least three months and see how I go after that.” “That’s good news.” He toasted her with his coffee cup. Although he was smiling, it seemed forced. “And,” she stressed the word ‘and’. “When I get back I’m going to study music. I’ve found a campus that offers part-time courses. I’ve spoken with the course co-ordinator who confirmed availability.” A genuine smile tugged at his lips. “So you are finally following your dreams. Well done, Lily.” He leaned back in his chair, crossed his arms over his chest as his gaze focussed on her. She leaned over her plate to look at him. “It’s thanks to you. Being on stage gave me the confidence I needed to take my career forward. Yes, I could start studying now but I really need to travel. I’ve waited for so long—” His finger trailed down the side of her face. “You’ve made the right decision. Go out in the world and I hope 112

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you find the happiness you deserve.” Her lungs emptied in response to his beautiful words. “That’s so nice of you to say.” He sat back in his chair and drained his coffee. Placing his cup on the saucer he said, “I have to go to Sydney for work, why don’t you join me?” “Really?” “It’ll be for a couple of days only—” “I’d love to. I’ve never been.” She paused. “Will I take you from your work?” “Not at all. I’m expanding my wine bars there. I have meetings with the manager in charge but apart from that, we can spend time together before you leave.” “Sounds perfect,” she said. Because it was.

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Diego and Lily were at the first-class lounge at Tullamarine airport waiting for their flight. He watched Lily take time in selecting a magazine from the racks, enjoying every moment, beaming with excitement, even indulging in a glass of champagne from the bar. He was seeing the everyday humdrum that he took for granted when working, through new eyes. The premium check-in, personalised service, complimentary food. Lily loved it all. Sitting, she toasted him with her glass of bubbly. “This is so luxurious. Shame I can’t travel like this when I go to America.” “These are the perks of travelling a lot for business,” he 113

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said, no longer interested in his emails. “I’ve organised a surprise for tomorrow.” “Really.” Her eyes widened with anticipation. “What is it?” He gave her an all-knowing grin. “If I told you, it wouldn’t be a surprise.” “How about a hint?” Leaning back in his chair, he held up three fingers. “I’ll give you three questions.” “Animal, vegetable, mineral?” “Neither.” Her brow crinkled as she pondered her next question. “Are we doing something, like playing croquet?” “You’re getting warmer,” he added in a drawl. She snapped her fingers. “We’re playing croquet!” “Wrong. You’ve had your questions so you’ll have to wait.” “But the last one was a statement.” She pretended to pout. He played along, shrugging his shoulders as though dismissing her concerns. Leaning over him, she whispered in his ear, “You know cheaters never prosper.” Then she suckled the fleshy part of his ear before returning to her seat. The warmth of her tongue curling around his ear made his body stiffen and he was ready to make love to her despite them being in a public place. “You’re playing with fire.” She blew him a kiss. “You bring out my seductive, sensual side, it’s your fault. It’s all because of you,” she said, 114

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stressing the word ‘you’. She lowered her voice and said, “I have never been this naughty with anyone but you.” “I’ll take that as a compliment,” he answered in a deep drawl. “And just so you know, I love the naughty side of you.” She fanned herself with her hand and grinned back. “I can’t wait till you next bring out that side of me again.”

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That morning they rose early to do the Sydney Harbour bridge dawn climb. There, they were given instructions on the climb and all the dos/don’ts. Then in overalls, with all loose items securely attached, they started to climb to the spot where they would be 134 metres high. Watching the sun rise, its rays extending across the dark sky like fingers, Lily took in the stunning colours of the morning. “This is stunning, Diego, thank you.” They held hands, watching the beauty of nature and the awakening of the vibrant city before their eyes. Their climbing instructor took group photos and then one of the two of them. Lily knew she would treasure the photo as well as the moment it captured. She was totally in love with Diego, loved his caring nature extended to her and his family. His brilliant inquisitive mind and the pleasure of their time together, in bed and out. It was going to take time for her to recover from not seeing him every day, talking to him, and having fun together. It was going to hurt. And how could she date again when she’d always be comparing them to Diego. It wasn’t 115

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fair really. But she was thankful for their time together. It’d been the highlight of her ordinary life. Now that she’d seen what could be done by taking leadership, she was going to apply that to herself. The first step was to study music. She was finally doing things for her, all thanks to him. Much later, they sat at one of the many busy cafés along the foreshore with the Opera House and Harbour Bridge as a spectacular backdrop. The day was warm and sunny, making a perfect start to the day, even more perfect. “That climb was brilliant, thanks for organising it,” she said before sipping her latté. “I have to confess my legs are now a little wobbly.” “There were a lot of stairs up—” “And a lot coming down,” she said with a flourish. “The two and a half hours went by so quick.” Pointing to her food he said, “Eat up.” He checked his watch. “We have meetings today and then tonight I’m taking you out for dinner.”

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Later that night as they walked to their hotel room she confessed, “Today was one of the best days of my life. I have to tell you that I’ve never been so terrified yet excited. It was hard work climbing up in the dark, but to be at the top of the bridge, so high up and watching dawn break was the most amazing thing I’ve ever seen. It was spectacular.” In their room, he shut the door with a click before he tugged her close and brushed his lips against hers. “I enjoyed spending the day with you today.” 116

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Her arms came up around his neck and he lifted her, carrying her to the bed. Housekeeping had made up the bed, curtains drawn, and lamps strategically left on creating a cosy, romantic moment. But Lily didn’t see it. Her focus was on Diego, the man she loved. She may not be able to tell him how she felt, but tonight she was going to show him. “Even though our time together was limited, I wanted to spoil you and bring you here,” he whispered, laying her down on the plush softness of their king-sized bed. “From this day I want it to be the start of the new you. Where you do things for you, not just your brothers or for others.” He removed her shoes then carefully peeled back her dress before laying it out on a chaise. On the bed, she lay waiting in anticipation, wearing only stockings and tiny Gstring panties. “You’re so sexy wearing stockings for me, you know how much I love seeing you wear them.” He trailed his lips up her thigh and pressed his mouth at the junction of her thighs. They trembled at his touch and in need. “I want you so much.” She reached out to him and he lay next to her, kissing her with a thoroughness that left her gasping. In between kisses and nibbles, she undressed him till he was naked and she cast an appreciative look over his strong arms and abs. She sat on his lap, he lay before her like a delectable smorgasbord of toned muscle, a smattering of chest hair and sun-kissed skin. And he was hers, for now. 117

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“I want to taste you,” she said before she leaned and licked his nipples. His hands cupped her small breasts while his fingers gently massaged her nipples into small buds. She positioned herself in such a way, she was able to make love to him with her mouth while he could do the same to her at the same time. They touched and gave each other pleasure till they were both panting, each needing completion. Moving her body around, she unrolled a condom over his hard length then slid down watching the tightness around his jaw. Clad still in her stockings, she moved herself up and down, setting the slow pace of their lovemaking. She wanted to relish every second because soon all she would have would be the memories of their time together. They changed positions a few times, keeping the pace slow and sensual till Lily begged for completion. “Diego, I need, I need…” “I know, mi hermosa, for me too.” A few long strokes had her clinging to him and when she shuddered from an orgasm that was so intense, she cried out. “I love, I love you, I love you.” She sobbed. There was no hiding it. She hadn’t said it once, but thrice. He now knew how she felt. He drove into her a few more times before he finished. She watched him under hooded eyes, how the skin on his neck tightened and how he often bit his lips at that point of fulfilment. 118

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He collapsed on top of her, breathing heavily. “I’m hoping you said that by accident.” She bit her lip, feeling the thumpity-thump of his beating heart against her chest. Eventually, he stood, disposed of the condom, and tugged on his boxer briefs. His eyes were dark and unfathomable. She tugged the sheet over her nakedness, like a protective shield. He threw her an accusing stare. “Tell me you don’t mean it.” The muscles in his neck were taut and tight. She could lie, but she didn’t want to. Could her love be strong enough for the two of them? Perhaps he needed the right woman to show him that love leading into marriage was possible. “I can’t.” She chewed her lip. “I am in love with you.” “But we agreed—” She scowled at him. “I know.” He stood over her. “What we have between us is great sex. I do like you—” “So it’s more than just sex?” “I brought you to Sydney—” “And you’ve done so much for me, the singing, helping me develop into the woman I want to be.” His hand sliced through the air to stop her from saying more. “I do like you, Lily. It is more than sex, but it’s not love.” He paused, crossing his arms. “We’ve been together less than three weeks, not enough time to fall in love. You’re confusing intimacy for more than what it is.” 119

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“I know how I feel.” “Lily, you gave up on your dreams all those years ago. You’ve devoted yourself to your brothers. You’ve had little time to date, how can you be so sure it’s love?” “I know how I feel when I’m around you. We do more than just have sex. We do have fun together and we like the same things.” “No.” He shook his head, his pallor visibly whiter. “We made a deal,” he said, narrowing his eyes and giving her an accusing stare. “I know.” She let out an exasperated breath. The man was as unmoving as Uluru, the large rock in the middle of Australia. He wasn’t budging. “I went into this as a fling with full expectations. I didn’t expect to fall in love.” She paused. “But I have.” Her voice was low, almost a whisper. He put his hands up, keeping a barrier between them. “I told you I don’t believe in love. This is not what I want. You knew that. I was clear about it.” “But—” He raised his hand to silence her. Looking at his watch, he then said, “Get dressed and pack your things. We’re returning to Melbourne, now.”

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CHAPTER TEN Five weeks later The heavily lipsticked mouth was moving but despite his concentration, he didn’t hear anything. The date should have been everything he ever wanted. Candela, Eduardo’s sister’s best friend, and he were dining in one of Melbourne’s most happening restaurants. Despite the outstanding food, excellent service, and a formidable dinner date, he was bored. Nothing held his attention. Not even the immaculately groomed Candela. “The dessert menu, sir.” A leather bound folder was opened and placed in front of him. Dessert. Immediately, images of Lily’s dulce de leche sprang to mind and he shook his head to clear the images away. The waiter removed their menus interpreting that he didn’t want to see it. “Oh.” Candela sighed with disappointment. 121

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He’d forgotten about her. He took another gulp of wine but it did little to settle the angst and frustration swirling in his belly. She was perfect. Why was he behaving so badly? “I’m sorry, Candela, I have an early start tomorrow. I’ll take you home.” He stood, walked over, and helped her to her feet. “Dinner was lovely, thank you,” she cooed. He’d perfunctorily eaten the lamb cutlets for dinner but the melt-in-the mouth meat had tasted of cardboard. He had to get out of here. The idea of sharing dessert with Candela was too intimate. He needed space and to get out of this claustrophobic room. Que estupido. He hated himself for being so rude. Candela was perfect for him and he was tossing a chance with her away because he couldn’t get a vision of red hair and blazing emeraldcoloured eyes out of his head. He was acting like a lovesick fool. Lovesick? What a joke. His brain must have permanently migrated and lodged in his pants because of late all he could think about was Lily. “Diego?” Candela interrupted his thoughts. “I’m sorry.” “You’re very distracted, is something wrong?” she asked in Spanish. “Just work. I’m sorry.” He was sorry for thinking about another woman while he was dating her. He brushed his lips against her cheek. “Let’s go.”

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Diego’s lungs burned as he completed the second lap around Albert Park Lake. Over ten kilometres of hard running and he was still wired and anxious. Beads of sweat ran down his face in rivulets. He tugged his top, exposing his belly, to wipe his face dry. A nearby jogger wolf-whistled, then laughed as he ran by. He caught the man’s smug look and Diego had an uncontrollable urge to punch him. What was the matter with him? He couldn’t take a joke? Day and night, thoughts swirled around his brain. This afternoon, unable to work, he’d barked at his PA, Emily, to cancel his afternoon meetings. He’d changed and come out to jog. A run should have cleared his head. It should have brought focus. It hadn’t. The realisation hit him hard in the solar plexus. He didn’t want to admit it, not even to himself, but he was missing Lily. Really missing her. He missed her laugh. He missed her delight at new discoveries. He missed their time together. Now he was stuck at work because it was the only place she hadn’t come to. He couldn’t eat at his favourite Italian restaurant or have gelati or watch a movie in bed. Everything reminded him of Lily. He clenched his fists into tight balls. His date with Candela had been a disaster because of him. He’d ruined it with his obnoxious behaviour. He ran his fingers through his damp hair and finally accepted the fact that he needed help. The only way he could move on from Lily was to talk to someone. Someone 123

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who was honourable and decent. His father, his padre. He would be able to help.

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Travelling, so far, had met her expectations. Lily loved meeting new people, trying new foods, and sightseeing. For the past week, she’d been in New Orleans. The city was magical with its amazing food, friendly locals, and brilliant jazz bars. She’d even toured around the surrounding areas, visiting the stately, plantation homes. Yesterday she’d met up with an Australian couple, Rebecca and Zac, who were spending time travelling through the USA, England, and Europe. That night she and Rebecca were having drinks and dinner together at one of the many fantastic restaurants. “This is the big trip we saved up to do before we have children.” Rebecca had openly told her. “For years we focussed on our careers and saved money.” “You’re still talking to each other?” Lily joked with her new friend. “Yes.” Rebecca grinned from ear to ear. “It’s like how it first was when we were newly married. Not only are we spending time talking, we’re also having great sex.” She nudged Lily with her elbow. “We’ve really connected over this time.” Rebecca sipped her drink. “Marriage is hard and you have to work hard at it. No one really tells you how it is.” She paused and fiddled with her straw. “This time together 124

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has allowed us to focus on us as a couple.” Lily drained the last of her cocktail and signalled to the barman for another round. “These drinks are potent.” “I know.” Her new friend giggled. “When I asked what was in them, he laughed at me and told me to just drink up.” Her voice slurred. “How many have we had?” “Two? Three?” Lily shrugged. “Who knows? So where’s Zac tonight?” “Out with a group of guys. Americans. All here on holiday and they included him.” “You don’t mind him leaving you?” “It’s one night, besides, I get to spend time with you. It’s great to have a girly chat.” Rebecca gave her a warm smile. “So tell me about you? Are you missing home? “To be honest, yes.” Lily took a long drink, still a little surprised at herself for missing her life that she’d deemed boring and a repetitive drudge. “Tell me,” her friend encouraged before popping a bitesized crab cake into her mouth. Lily sighed and poured out her heart. “For years all I wanted to do was to get away from my brothers, be free. Now that I’m here, I miss them…a lot.” “From what you told me yesterday, I can understand you feeling stifled, needing to break free. Raising twin boys is not easy, especially when you’re mourning the loss of both parents,” Rebecca replied thoughtfully as she reached for another crab cake. Lily took a sip of her cocktail. “I never made time for myself. I didn’t have the money for a holiday so I never had 125

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a break.” She stopped as she reflected over the past few years. “But I could have gone away overnight or even had time off. All I did was work and I ended up resenting my brothers. Which is really unfair because it was my fault, not theirs.” Lily felt her eyes sting with self-remorse and a recognition that she’d martyred herself. There had been no need to do. Rebecca grabbed her hand, “Don’t be hard on yourself. It’s always easier to see things in hindsight. You’re also older now. Don’t beat yourself up.” Lily twirled with the straw of her drink while mulling over Rebecca’s words. “While you were staring at our drink, I just ordered another platter of crab cakes,” Rebecca said. “I’m going to be the size of a house by the time I get back home. The food here is so good.” Lily gave her a weak smile, pushing away the “pity party” in her head and focussing on her new friend. “The favours of the foods are amazing, want to try a jambalaya next?” “You’re on,” Rebecca said before giving the cute bartender a smile. “You’re flirting?” Lily wagged her eyebrows. “It’s just a smile. Besides, I may be married, but I’m not dead. He’s hot. Maybe you should ask him out?” Rebecca gave her arm a playful jab. “He’s giving you the eye.” “Really?” Lily swivelled around and sure enough the cute guy was looking at her. He gave her a quick smile before serving another customer. Her heart lifted, and she couldn’t believe he’d been checking her out. 126

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“Unfortunately, I’m still hung up on a six foot plus Argentinian Australian hunk whose dark eyes remind me of dark chocolate with a hint of spiced orange,” Lily added. “Fool that I.” “What did he do? Cheat? Gamble? Steal?” Lily took another long sip of her drink. “I’m tipsy so I’m going to tell you everything.” “I’m tipsy too,” her friend sang and they clinked their glasses in acknowledgment. “What happened with Mr Wonderful?” “He wanted to get married.” “What?” Rebecca yelled out. “I wasn’t expecting that,” she said in a much quieter voice. “I forgot to add, he doesn’t want to marry me because I fell in love with him.” She paused. “It’s complicated.” “Honey, I got all night.” Rebecca placed her hand on hers. “Talk it out.” Lily looked up, catching the gaze of her friend. “I miss him so much, but there’s no future for the two of us. I still think about him even though it’s been weeks since I left.” “Men can be…difficult,” Rebecca said in a reassuring tone. “He was upfront. I knew from the beginning it was only a fling,” Lily said with determination. “I didn’t plan to fall in love, it just happened.” She drained the last of her drink and enjoyed the light-headedness it gave her. Rebecca signalled for more drinks before returning her attention to Lily. “I get it. Sometimes love works in strange ways.” 127

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“You and Zac?” Lily raised her eyebrow, interested to know more. “Zac had been dating this girl for years. The parents were pressuring them to marry. Much to the parents’ horror and his girlfriend’s outrage he broke it off.” She stopped and ate another crab cake. “He knew deep down that he didn’t want to marry her. They’d settled into a familiar ease.” “He did the right thing, even though she must have been devastated.” “It wasn’t easy, especially when he met me a couple of months later. Within two weeks we were engaged.” “That’s so romantic.” “It is, but it also caused problems as everyone assumed I was the ‘rebound’ girlfriend.” Rebecca made quotation marks in the air when she said rebound. “But, when I met him, I knew he was the one. I’d dated enough to know he was the one for me. I’m really thankful he had the courage to stand up for his beliefs, otherwise, I would never have met him.” “Wow,” Lily said with a sigh. “That’s the kind of romance I love to hear about.” “We had our beautiful wedding but over the years our time together got stale. Being away from the pressures of work and our families has been great. We even have morning sex, something we haven’t had time to do for ages.” “Not everyone gets the fairytale ending,” Lily said and sighed. “I thought I’d found it with Diego but it just didn’t work out.” 128

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“Zac’s ex has found someone new and is happy. She’s grateful for what he did, even though at the time, she wanted to rip his throat out.” Lily snorted. Rebecca covered her hand with hers. “These cocktails are making me woozy so I hope I’m making sense. If it’s meant to be, it’s meant to be. You can’t force love. If he doesn’t want to marry you then you need to accept it and move on.” Lily’s shoulders sagged under her friend’s thoughtful advice. She was right. Diego didn’t love her. She needed to find someone who appreciated her and wanted to spend their life with her. Like Rebecca’s husband, Diego had been upfront about his feelings and attitudes to her. Like Zac’s ex, she’d been upset over the rejection but in the end, it had been the right decision for them both. Applying the same logic to herself, she needed to get over Diego because he didn’t see her as someone he wanted to have a family with and grow old with. Her friend had opened her eyes to the complexities of love. “Let me give you some advice,” Rebecca continued. “If this bloke happens to get in touch with you, listen to what he has to say.” Lily raised her eyebrow unable to believe that was the advice. “That’s it?” “That’s it,” Rebecca said in a definitive, all-knowing tone. “Men want to be listened to.” “You seem awfully sure.” Lily sighed. 129

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Rebecca gave her a cheeky smile. “I know what I’m talking about.” The two burst out laughing. “I’m glad I met you. Thanks for all your advice.” Lily stood, walked over on unsteady legs and gave her new friend a warm hug.

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Two weeks later Lily was loving the mad rush of New York and doing all the touristy things like visiting sites and museums. She also loved soaking up the atmosphere of the vibrant city and walked up and down the streets, looking at shops, the skyscrapers, and the mad rush of people around her. It was exhilarating, it was exhausting. The pace was fast and nonstop. Having available WiFi almost everywhere in New York was a bonus. Sitting in her new found favourite café, Lily checked her emails while sipping a hot chocolate. She gasped, unable to believe there was an email from Diego in her Inbox. She hadn’t heard from him in weeks and had accepted his firm decision to part ways. With shaky fingers, she opened the email and read. Dear Lily I hope you are enjoying your travels. My PA’s cousin’s friend runs tours in New York and they have a special one for fans of “When Harry Met Sally”. Since it’s your favourite movie, I’ve booked you 130

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a place. See the details below for pick up times etc. The tour will take you to the locations where the movie was filmed. I hope you enjoy it. Diego. She sighed at this thoughtfulness; he’d remembered her favourite movie. His email didn’t have declarations of love, but he’d shown her kindness that made her heart sing and weep. Shame that he’d never consider marrying her. Shame that she wasn’t wanting to get married…or was she? Was Diego worth changing her career and life for? She wanted to believe yes, but she wasn’t sure. Anyway, it didn’t matter. He was dating “suitable” women and unfortunately she wasn’t a candidate. Pain prickled her heart at the prospect of returning to Melbourne and hearing about him getting engaged. She wanted to move on, start dating, but couldn’t. She was still hung up on him. Perhaps when he was engaged, no longer available, she could convince herself that it was finally time to accept that they wouldn’t have a “happily ever after”. Silly really. She wanted to fault him but couldn’t. He’d been upfront and considerate from the beginning. The fault was with her, she’d fallen for the wrong guy. Over the past few weeks she’d missed him, really missed him. She blew out a sad breath thinking about their shared dinners, long walks, playing board games, and of course the fun in the bedroom. Her face reddened remembering how good it had been between them. And if she was honest with 131

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herself, she missed the feel of his strong arms around her, the way they connected intimately and how he knew exactly how to pleasure her. She missed that too. Pushing away all thought of Diego’s strong chest, she replied to his email: Dear Diego Thank you for organising the tour for me, it sounds great. I’m looking forward to it. Lily x She decided to send an x, a kiss because she couldn’t help herself. One day she’d get over him. One day. But that day was not today.

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Lily stood beneath the Arch at Washington Park Square in Greenwich Village. Her pocket travel guide had recommended seeing the marble memorial to George Washington. Arriving twenty minutes before the tour started, Lily spent time looking at the memorial, taking pictures, and reading the insignia detailed on the Arch. It was a perfect start to the tour since the memorial was in the movie. A fellow traveller on the web page recommended taking pictures of the Empire State Building, using the Arch as a frame. Checking her digital camera, she was delighted to see how good the pictures looked. She reminded herself to leave a thank-you note on the web page at a later stage. Such a great idea. 132

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A quick check on her watch told her the tour was late by one minute. Shouldn’t they be here early to collect the guests? She scanned the area and didn’t see a mini-bus or tour guide to assist her. Her heart sank; had the tour been cancelled or changed and she was unaware of it? She checked her emails and reread Diego’s. The date and time were correct. What was going on? She dismissed a niggle of concern. The traffic in Manhattan was notoriously chaotic, which could’ve explained the bus’s late arrival. “Lily,” she heard her voice being called. Her breath caught in her throat quite unable to believe it was Diego walking toward her. In cargo shorts and a polo short, he could’ve been a tourist taking in the sites but she knew better. What was he doing here? Her heart rate picked up a notch. Then her brain went into overdrive as a multitude of terrible scenarios ripped through her. She rushed to him. “Is everything okay? My brothers?” He gave her a reassuring smile. “Everything is fine, you don’t need to worry.” But she was worried. Placing her hands on her hips, she faced him and pointed an accusing finger at him. “Why are you here?”

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CHAPTER ELEVEN “Lily.” Diego stepped forward and brushed his lips across her cheek. A waft of his lemony aftershave invaded her nostrils and she took a step back lest she do something like…kiss him. She had to be strong. “What on earth are you doing here? Coming on the tour with me?” She threw him an icy glare. “That’s cute.” He touched her nose with his finger. “No. I had to speak to you. She lifted her mobile phone from her pocket and pressed its face right up to his nose. “There’s a device called a phone. You could’ve called.” He shook his head while she slowly lowered her arm. “What I needed to say couldn’t be said over the phone,” he said. “There’s no bad news?” She glared at him. “I’m a little concerned seeing you here. I never thought I’d see you again in Melbourne, let alone, New York.” Her breathing grew

ragged, still unable to believe he was here, to see her. He took a step closer. “Your brothers are fine. All’s fine.” “Wait a minute. The tour?” “A set up so I could meet you.” He took her hand in his. Shaking her hand free she said, “Shame, I was really looking forward to it.” “Lily, please.” He was begging? The Diego she knew in Melbourne would never beg. He was take-charge and do what he wanted. Look at his behaviour at the auction. “What do you want?” she snapped at him. Her emotions were all over the place not knowing whether she wanted to jump in his arms and kiss him or run away and hide from him. His shoulders sagged. “Please, Lily, we need to talk about us.” “There is no us,” she said in a cool voice. “You made that quite clear when I stupidly told you I loved you.” Her eyes narrowed as the shame of rejection washed over. “And your response was to return to Melbourne as soon as possible. We returned on the last flight that night and I haven’t seen you since.” She crossed her arms in a protective manner. “I have never been so humiliated. I exposed my heart to you and you ripped it to shreds. There was no consideration of how I felt.” She gulped some air down. “All you cared about was how you felt. Not once” —she snapped her fingers to make a point— “did you consider my feelings.” His head bowed with guilt. “Lily, I can only apologise 135

for the terrible way I treated you.” He lifted his head and their gazes met. Shock ripped through her as she noted the pain in his dark eyes. “Lily, please let me talk to you and if you still want me to leave, I will.” Her voice softened. “Fine. But you have five minutes.” A tiny smile tugged at his lips. “That sounds familiar.” He looked around. “We’re in a public park. Let’s go somewhere, I know the perfect place for you.” She gave him a dramatic sigh, to re-emphasise that she didn’t want to hear his platitudes. “Fine, but it better be worth it.” Half an hour later they walked in Katz’s, deli extraordinaire, on the Lower East Side. “I didn’t realise that the sandwiches were so good that you’d travel halfway across the world for one.” She scoffed. Smiling in reply, he led them to an empty table. Plonking herself in the seat she announced, “I’m quite disappointed that there wasn’t a tour, I was really looking forward—” “I brought you here, didn’t I?” He waved his arm around the large deli. “Wasn’t a scene filmed here?” “How dare you know so much. It’s my favourite movie, not yours,” she accused before a playful smile slipped across her lips. She wanted to tell him to take a hike but a deep longing resonated in her heart wondering why he was here. Had he really flown twenty-six hours to see her? Rebecca had advised her to listen to Diego. Lily had agreed never once 136

thinking he would come after her. Her good manners dictated she listen to him. Menus and glasses of water were placed on their table as they continued to look at each other. “Let’s order,” he suggested. “Fine, let’s.” She didn’t bother looking at the menu, she already knew what she wanted. Seemed Diego followed her lead. Darn him. The waiter took their order, chicken soup for her and a sandwich for him. With his hands clasped together and elbows on the table, Diego looked at her. “Have you enjoyed your trip?” “I can’t believe you’re asking me that!” She leaned back in her chair, rolling her eyes in a dramatic way. “You want to know about my travels? You come to New York to engage in polite chit-chat?” “Actually, yes.” He sipped his water. “Has it been everything you hoped for?” “It’s been fantastic.” She didn’t have to inject any enthusiasm; her trip had been everything and more. “I’ve still got a few more weeks on my visa and then I’m deciding whether to go to Canada or England.” “You should do both,” he recommended. “Has it been liberating?” “Actually, yes.” She paused, thinking about the right words to say. “To be honest, I’m annoyed at myself for taking so long to do this.” “It’s expensive to travel,” he said. “It is, but I could’ve taken the boys on weekends away. 137

There are options of house swaps, cheap deals, and I never did them.” She gulped away the guilt and frustration of the past few weeks. “I could’ve been a better mother to them.” He took her smaller hand in his, concern wrinkling his forehead. “Don’t say that, you’ve done an amazing job. You were so young when you took on the responsibility of your brothers. Look at them. Both excelling at school, playing at team sports, and attending university.” He stopped, then said, “All because of you.” Tears of self-pity clogged her eyes. “That’s so nice of you to say. You’re right. The boys turned out great, but I didn’t. I mean, I’m twenty-eight and have never travelled, have few friends, and fell for the wrong guy.” She tugged her hand free and rested her forehead in her hands. She took a couple of deep breaths to rid herself of the pity-party and looked at him. “What I do know is that I could’ve been more kind to myself and plan to do so when I return.” “But you have, you did.” He reached for her hand again. “You went to Camilla’s class.” “I guess so.” She shrugged. “I’m planning on doing more.” “I’m glad to hear that.” His thumb massaged her wrist and she tried not to purr with pleasure. “Once you make more time for yourself, your time at home won’t be so stifling.” The waiter arrived and placed their meals in front of them. She stared at the enormous mazah ball, which was the size of an ostrich egg,` sitting in the chicken soup. “It’s massive.” Lifting her spoon she enjoyed the fragrant soup. “Mmmm.” 138

Casting an eye at Diego, she noticed his plate was still full having barely ate a mouthful. “Something wrong with your sandwich?” “No, it’s delicious.” The muscles in his jaw tightened. Lily placed her spoon to the side of her plate and used her no-nonsense tone that she’d perfected over the years when speaking to the boys. “Okay. You didn’t fly thousands of kilometres to see how I am or to eat at Katz’s.” She barely paused for breath. “When I left Melbourne, I was under the illusion I would never see you again. We’d had our fling and that was that.” She threw her hands in the air. “And now you meet me, create a fake tour, take me to the most amazing deli in New York, what’s going on?” Exasperation tightened her chest, making it hard to breathe. She needed to know why he was here. He took a sip of water and didn’t say anything. Frustration welled inside her and she exploded with, “You have three seconds to talk or I’m walking out of here.” “Okay,” he said. “I can’t stop thinking about our last conversation,” he said slowly. “What? When I told you I loved you and you looked as though I had confessed to deliberately torching your wine bars?” She pursed her lips together in frustration. “You took me by surprise. I thought we were having an affair, short-term fling. I never expected you would fall in love with me.” “Well, I didn’t expect it either, it just happened,” she added with a toss of her hair, giving off bravado when really all she wanted to do was throw her arms around him and kiss him senseless. 139

She’d gone into their affair never expecting to find someone who made her feel so special, who helped make her dreams come alive and was so much fun to be with. He used his palms to massage his eyes before lowering them to his lap. “That first night in my apartment when I told you what I wanted in life, I didn’t tell you everything.” “Go on,” she encouraged. “In my early twenties I, like many young men, thought they knew more than their parents. I rejected their ways believing I knew better. I decided I would find love and fall in love with someone who had a different cultural background than me. I was determined to show everyone that I knew best.” He took a sip of water and she noted how his whitened knuckles gripped the glass. “When I was twenty-five I met Laura, beautiful, welleducated and keen to start a family. As a legal secretary, she had an excellent job working for a barrister. We both worked long hours but I saw that as a positive sign of being a hard worker. We’d only been together six months when she announced she was pregnant, an accident.” He ran his fingers through his hair as though erasing some of the bitter memories from the past. “To be honest, I was shocked since we’d always used protection. Accepting things happen, I proposed immediately and set a date for the wedding. My parents were also shocked but accepted my decision. It’s not like we could wish away a baby.” He cleared his throat. “I became excited about the pregnancy, talking non-stop about the prospect of being a 140

father. Even though the timing was not good as I was starting up my business, I was determined to be the best father, reading books and websites. I must have driven Laura to frustration with my excitement. One day she sat down and confessed to me that the baby wasn’t mine.” He paused and she watched the rapid movement of his chest as he gulped down air. He banged his fist on the table. “She destroyed everything between us. She’d got pregnant from a one-night stand with her married boss, and thought I’d learn to love and accept the baby as mine. Perhaps, if she’d been upfront…” His dark eyes were an inky black etched with pain. “I thought I loved her but her lies destroyed everything good between us. How could I trust her?” Her hand flew up to her mouth, quite unable to believe what she was hearing. “I’m an honourable man and would’ve been prepared to accept and raise another man’s child, however, it turned out Laura’s one-night stand was more of an ongoing affair.” “He was married!” It was a statement, not a question. “Exactly,” he replied in a low voice. “At least this all happened before we married.” “That’s terrible. How awful to be taken advantage of, to be lied to like that.” Initially she felt sorry for Laura and her dilemma but she found her lies to be denigrating and callous. How awful for her child to be the result of an illicit affair. She rubbed her hand over her heart thinking about that little boy or girl who’d be in school now. Were they happy? 141

Her attention returned to Diego and the rest of his story. “After that debacle with Laura I spent a lot of time thinking about my family. I was ashamed of my behaviour and how badly I’d treated my parents. When I threw her engagement ring into Port Philip Bay all those years ago, I promised myself that I would be more considerate to my family and their values.” The air emptied from her lungs as she stared at Diego, quite unable to believe him. “That’s quite a story. You were lied to in the worst way.” She rested her elbows on the table. “I now see why you are the way you are. Thank you for sharing that with me and I’m sorry I thought you were a mummy’s boy. Far from it. I admire your honesty and strength.” He grabbed her hand. “There’s more.” “More?” She gasped. “For nine years I convinced myself I’d follow the path of my parents. Find someone with the same background as me, get married, have children, and wait for love to blossom.” “But?” His thumb massaged her wrist. “But then you came along. You with your gorgeous red hair, creamy skin, and green eyes. I wanted more than one night with you and couldn’t stop thinking about you. I reminded myself the last time I’d fallen for a woman, it ended in disaster. I wanted to keep things casual, or so I thought.” He lifted her hand and kissed each knuckle. “I pretended that it was just great sex but I know it’s more.” 142

“More?” Her dry throat made the word high-pitched and squeaky. “I’m in love with you,” he confessed in a low voice, his gaze focussed on her. “You love me?” Her heart rate picked up and cantered along, still quite unable to believe what he’d just said. “Of course, why do you think I came here? For the food?” He chuckled. She looked at their uneaten plates of food and raised her eyebrow. “I guess not.” They looked at each other across the table before he pressed his mouth to the pulse point on her wrist. “Diego, I’ve missed you so much.” She paused. “I’ve been travelling on my own for weeks now and have met so many wonderful people but I really wanted to share all these fab things with you. The sights, the food, the music. I’ve missed you, I’ve even missed my brothers.” She quickly recounted the realisation of how she allowed her needs to become constrained, over the years. “I told you, many times, you’ve done an amazing job raising your brothers. You may not have made time for yourself but you can make up for it now.” He paused. “I’ve missed you too, mi hermosa.” His low voice made her tummy dissolve like gooey chocolate. “I still can’t believe it. You love me?” Her voice was breathless but questioning. What had changed him? It had to have been significant since he’d been prepared for her to go overseas, leave him. “What made you change your mind?” 143

He entwined his fingers through hers. “After you left I couldn’t stop thinking about you. I swear I can still smell that apple-scented shampoo of yours in my apartment. Everything reminded me of you. I couldn’t eat, couldn’t sleep.” He paused. “I couldn’t eat at Angelo’s anymore or have chocolate gelati or even walk around Albert Park Lake. They all reminded me of you.” His beautiful words made her eyes fill with tears. “And then?” “I spoke to my father, Padre, who I trust. We spoke for ages and he reminded me that Laura was not the right woman for me. We wouldn’t have been happy had we married for the sake of a baby.” He paused. “He then told me how he’d fallen in love with my mum, before they were married. He said the heart knows.” He nodded. “He was right. I then went and spoke to Uncle—” “The one whose wife died?” He nodded slowly. “Yes, Uncle Ignatio.” “You were so angry with him,” she said, remembering the bitterness in his voice from all those weeks ago. He bowed his head with remorse. “I know. It was wrong of me. I allowed the grievance of a boy to affect my judgement.” “Which boy?” She lifted her eyebrow with a questioning look. “Me, of course.” He gave her a small smile before a sombre look crossed his face. “What young boy can understand true love? The love between a man and wife. My aunt died from breast cancer and Uncle Ignatio was 144

devastated. He adored her.” “And then your family immigrated to Australia to help him and the children out,” she clarified. “That’s right. I foolishly and selfishly resented my uncle because of us having to emigrate but also my mother had to help raise their children, my cousins. Whereas before there was just Camilla and I, now my mother had six children to care for. Four of whom were missing their mother. I wanted attention when I should’ve been kinder and more forgiving to my mother.” He looked up at the ceiling for a bit then returned his gaze to her. “This is very hard to tell you and I’m ashamed of my behaviour.” She reached over to trail her fingers down his face. “You were a child.” “Until I met you, I thought love was for fools. My frustration blinded me to the fact that real love hurts. My uncle was grieving for his wife and all I saw was a broken man and somehow I equated love with weakness.” He took a long sip of water. “Until I met Laura I believed falling in love weakened you. The disaster of Laura confirmed this belief. I honestly believed that.” “That’s quite a lot of anger and emotion there.” She pointed to his heart. “I’ve let it go,” he announced with pride. “It took a long chat with two experienced yet sensible men, my father and uncle, for me to see that. I can’t imagine losing you.” His eyes darkened. “I couldn’t bear it if anything happened to you.” “I’m not going anywhere,” she said in a low voice. 145

“Even knowing love can hurt I want to take a risk and be with you.” Scepticism rolled in her tummy. “But what about everything else? The food, the language—” He brushed her concerns away with a flick of his wrist. “It’s not important anymore. You are my everything. I love you. I can’t imagine my life without you. I want to be with you always. I want us to have children and grow old together.” He leaned forward and brushed the tiny tears that escaped from her eyes with the pad of his thumb. He gave her a bone-melting smile. “Besides, I can teach them Spanish. And if the only Argentinian dish you ever make is dulce de leche, that’s fine. Because having you in my life is more important than a meal, a food dish. “I will wait for you, till you are ready. All I want is you, but I want you to have the time to study and do all the things you need to do before you settle down. This I promise you.” He paused. “I will wait for you.” A strangled sob erupted from her lips. “But all of that was so important to you. The food, the Spanish, the culture.” “But you’re more important,” he said slowly. “I don’t want those things if you’re not there to share them with me.” Her breath got caught in her throat. “Are you sure?” “Lily,” he said. “I’m happiest when you’re around. Since Sydney, I’ve missed talking to you, holding you in my arms, going for walks, and watching a movie. There’s something 146

missing and I know that piece is you.” “But you wanted to marry and start a family now.” She stressed the word “now”. “But I want all of that with you so if I have to wait for it, then so be it.” His hand rolled in the air. “I’ve organised for someone to manage my business for me. I’ve taken two weeks off work so we can travel together. I want to see Niagara Falls with you but we’ll go wherever you want.” More tears leaked out of her eyes and she brushed them away. “I don’t know what to say!” “Say you’ll marry me,” he urged her. She leaned back in her chair and gave him a cheeky look. “You haven’t asked me.” He stood, threw his serviette on the table, and walked around to her side. Dropping on one knee, he took her hand in his and said, “Lily Taylor, will you please marry me and make me the happiest man? I promise to love you, care for you, and remind you every day how much you mean to me. I want us to have a family, grow old together. I want to be with you, forever.” Tears streamed down her cheeks, Diego had confessed his love and was proposing in the middle of Katz’s Deli! Her gaze took in the man she loved so much. His eyes were full of love and it only confirmed what she knew, he was the man for her. Unable to speak, her throat clogged with emotion, Lily nodded enthusiastically before kissing him on the mouth. He gathered her in his arms and kissed her back before whispering to her, “You honour me. Thank you.” 147

People in the surrounding tables may have been clapping with the excitement of a proposal in the café but all she could focus on was the man she loved. Diego. They kissed and kissed some more. “I love you, Diego, and I can’t wait to be your wife.” They sealed the deal with another kiss to the sound of wolf whistles and cheering.

Eighteen months later

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Diego pressed a soft kiss to his precious baby’s head; a surge of pride tore through him as he watched his beautiful wife, Lily, nurse their six-month-old son. “Joaquin is a lucky boy. When I watch you feed our son, I feel like bursting with joy.” A smile extended across her lips. “He may have been an ‘accident’ but he’s the best thing that’s ever happened to me. I mean, us.” He nodded in agreement. “It’s been a truly humbling experience caring and raising him.” He caressed his son’s arm before kissing Lily’s cheek. “You’re such a wonderful mother, so loving and caring.” “Thank you, Diego.” She blew him a kiss since she couldn’t stand while feeding. “But to see you fuss over him, no one would believe what a softie you are beneath that gruff, astute business man appearance.” He raised his fingers to his lips. “Shh, you promised not to tell.” 148

Lily chuckled before turning her attention to their precious son. “I just love him so much.” “Me too, mi hermosa, me too.” The two of them with adoring gazes watched their baby, as new parents often do, looking at the plumpness of his cheeks, the tiny fingers and curve of his brow. Lily broke the silence with a soft voice. “I have exciting news for you.” She didn’t wait for him to reply. “My enrolment has been accepted, I start classes next term.” She raised her hand to ward off his concerns. “Before you ask, it’s only two days a week and your mum is delighted to look after Joaquin while I study.” “I just want you to be happy,” he said with determination. Guilt still plagued him about Lily getting pregnant earlier than planned. He’d meant what he’d said in New York, he’d been prepared to wait for her. “You had all these plans before having children and you haven’t yet achieved them.” She touched his hand to reassure him. “Darling, it’s okay. I’m going back to my studies and I can do it part time. I’m so happy.” A smile of excitement tugged at her lips. “I have more exciting news. Remember that guy I met when I first started studying? Michael. He emailed me and we had a long chat today. He’s got this great collaborative idea and he wants to work with me.” She could barely contain the excitement of sharing her news. “He’s composed music and songs for babies, toddlers, and children, and wants me to do the singing. He wants to promote it as a gift pack for new parents where they get 149

three CDs of music appropriate for different stages of their children’s lives.” “It sounds great,” he said with conviction, because as a father, he loved any gift, toy or activity that would benefit his son. He ran his fingers through her hair, touching its softness. “I was thinking today about you performing up on stage.” “Ha, the last time I did that, I was heavily pregnant with Joaquin. Remember?” Her brow crinkled with reflection. “I must have looked like a whale in my dress.” “You looked amazing.” His thoughts drifted back a few months when he couldn’t stop staring at her belly, totally enamoured by the growing life they’d created through love. He pressed a soft kiss to her brow. “I was thinking we could have you sing on a regular basis at the club, like what you did before Joaquin? What do you think?” “I love to, but to be honest, I don’t want to perform every night. I want to be with you and Joaquin.” She paused. “Can I perform every fortnight? “You can perform once a week, once a month, or once a year. Whatever you want I’ll organise it for you.” He kissed her mouth. “I can’t wait to see you up on stage again, you’ve got such a beautiful voice.” “Thank you, Diego, for giving me everything.” She looked at him, her gaze filled with love. He brushed his lips across hers. “I just want you happy.” “I am happy,” she said, kissing him back. “What will make me happier is putting him to bed so I can show you 150

how happy I really am,” she added with a cheeky wink. His breath quickened in anticipation of him showing her how much he loved her. Dinner, for them, could wait. Making love to his beautiful wife couldn’t. He gently took their baby, holding him close as he carried him to his cot. “Buenas noches hijo mio. Your parents love you so much.” He pressed light kisses across the baby’s forehead. He looked back at his beautiful wife still seated and said, “I love you, Lily. You’ve made my life complete.” “No more children?” She pretended to pout. “Let’s wait a bit for the next one, besides” —he paused for dramatic effect— “we can practise.” He waggled his eyebrows. She smiled before rolling her eyes. “I think we know what we’re doing.” “Practise makes perfect.” He chuckled. “Back in a minute,” he said before giving her a searing look. He loved her with every depth of his being, and had every intention of making sure she knew, every day. Lily had blessed him with a healthy child and was a loving wife whose smile brightened his day. In saying yes and marrying him, she’d made his life complete. He’d bid on love and won.



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Dear Reader I hope you enjoyed Bidding on Love as much as I enjoyed writing it. If you did, I’d appreciate an honest review on Amazon or Goodreads. Thanks. If you’d like to hear of my new and upcoming book releases, and special promotions, please sign up for my newsletter. (http://eepurl.com/bvOoXP) Want to read more of my romances? Head over to my website for all the latest http://joannedannon.com/books/ Kindest Regards, Joanne