In This Life
Rachel Carrington 



Prologue 

Alexander heard footsteps behind him and turned slightly, surprised to see Carla following him. “What are you doing? I thought you would spend time with my cousin now.” 

Carla hooked her arm through his and began to guide him toward the library though he knew his way quite well. “Sinclair will wait. There are a few things I need to go over with you before you leave. Now, when you get to New York, everything will look really strange.” 

“I’m sure it will,” Alexander agreed in a patronizing drawl. Surely Carla expected him to have a few surprises along the way. After all, he was headed into the twenty-first century. Anticipation climbed its way up his spine at the thought. 

Her gown rustled around her ankles as she walked across the imported carpet. “Close the door, please. “ After Alexander followed her command, she held out a piece of parchment paper which had been tucked in the folds of her dress. “Here.” 

“What’s this?” 

“It’s a note to a friend of mine. He’s really weird but a nice guy. I’ve told him to help you out, and he’s just strange enough to do it without asking any questions.” She walked to the long row of shelves next to the back wall of the library. “Oh and ignore his hair. And his clothes.” 

Alexander frowned. “What is the matter with his clothing? Does the man not know how to properly attire himself?” 

Carla grinned over her shoulder. “You’ll see. He’s just eccentric and may not come across as the smartest guy in the world. But not too many things get past him. Now, my sister’s address is written in the front of this book along with some other things you’ll need to know.” She returned to stand in front of him. 

“It’s a poetry book. I’ll have to admit I have not yet read this one. His first work received a fair amount of criticism and—” 

“Alexander, will you focus!? It’s Lord Byron!” 

He patiently waited for her to explain further while he jostled the book from palm to palm. 

“You look like an English gentleman. You talk like an English gentleman, and no one will suspect a thing if you’re seen carrying a book of Lord Byron’s poetry. And for now, it’s your bible. Not to mention, this,” she tapped the book, “is a work of art. I’ve spent many hours reading those poems.” 

“You are wandering far astray of our subject, My Lady. I believe you mentioned bible?” 

Her hand grasped his. “Listen to me. I’ve given you a lot of information in that book—information you’ll need when you arrive.” She checked the clock above the mantel. “We don’t have much time and there’s no possible way I can tell you everything that you need to know but…” Carla stopped and cleared her throat before tapping the worn leather cover of the poetry book. “I’ve tried to help you the best I can by writing what I think you’ll need in there.” 

Alexander studied her for a long second before responding. “And how can you be sure it will travel with me?” He didn’t want to disappoint her but in all likelihood the book would not arrive in the new century with him. After all, Sinclair had told him how Carla’s reticule had disappeared upon her arrival. 

Carla winked at him. “And before you saying anything, I know what you’re thinking but this different. Someone owes me a favor.” 

“By someone, you mean Sara.” Alexander inclined his head. He didn’t doubt that. It had been Sara who had brought Carla to this century. A favor or two would seem to be in order. 

“’Tis a wonder you do not feel some ill will toward my cousin’s dearly departed wife who brought you into his life.” He returned her wink. “But then, Sara always was attuned to the sufferings of others.” 

Carla blinked at him. “She knew I was unhappy.” 

Alexander’s thoughts drifted. If ever a love was meant to be, it was that of Carla and Sinclair and he only imagined Sara had seen the need for this couple to find love. Between them, they shared a magical kind of connection, one Alexander hoped to find 

for himself. 

Carla bumped his shoulder with hers. “Are you still with me?” 

He frowned. “Where else would I be?” 

She rolled her eyes. “Never mind. Now, let’s get back to the subject. We’re running out of time.” One fingernail tapped her chin. “When you get to port, you’ll need to hail a cab but wait.” 

Yanking the book of poetry from Alexander’s hand, she then thumbed through the pages before giving a sigh of relief. “Yes, it’s right here.” She tapped the linen paper. “I’m not certain if you’ll end up in the port which I know of or the one which existed in 1811. Either way, if I remember my history correctly, I’ve given you the proper instructions.” 

As she continued to babble on about taxis and fares and other items of little import to Alexander at the moment, Carla’s face became animated. And Alexander knew at that exact moment she would always miss her century—no matter how much she loved his cousin. 

“Now, as I said, I don’t have any money to give you, at least nothing that will probably travel with you. I don’t imagine there’ll be a currency converter that can handle this century’s coins. Anyway—“ 

“Carla.” Sinclair’s voice carried a mixture of amusement and exasperation. “There is little time to ponder the intricacies of coins. Alexander’s ship will depart at half past the hour.” 

Flashing her husband a brief smile, Carla nodded. “Right. I know. I just–” She blew out a breath and took hold of Alexander’s hand. “I just want to make sure you’ll be okay.” 

Sinclair approached her and wrapped an arm around her waist. “Alexander will be just fine. He’s always been a resourceful fellow.” 

“Indeed,” Alexander inserted with a nod of his head. 

Carla leaned back against Sinclair’s shoulder. “Anyway, Seb will help you out.” 

“Seb?” Sinclair’s voice joined with Alexander’s. 

Warmth flickered in Carla’s eyes. “Sebastian, but he goes by Seb. That’s the guy I’m sending you to. He owes me many, many favors since I’ve hauled his ass out of jail more times than I can count.” 

“Jail? The rascal has been arrested?” 

“Carla, language, please.” The exasperation had returned to Sinclair’s tone. 

Alexander had grown accustomed to Carla’s blatant use of language not befitting a lady, but Sinclair heartily disapproved of the obscenities. But there was little time to be concerned with such trivial matters. “You’re sending me off to meet a fellow who has been arrested? Perhaps he is not suited to assist me—“ 

Carla kept talking as if neither man had spoken. “Not just arrested. Convicted and sentenced but don’t worry. He’s still a nice guy. Just likes his weed and he’s connected. He’s always managed to surprise me with the amount of people he knows as well as the things he can get done in a short amount of time. So be prepared to hustle…um…work quickly,” she amended with a fond glint in her eyes. “Seb doesn’t like to waste time and while he won’t be able to teach you everything, he can certainly help you get established or at least your foot in the door.” 

Alexander’s head spun and suddenly, it didn’t matter that Seb was a man without the proper social standing. “My foot in the door. Yes, I would imagine that would be beneficial.” 

Sinclair snickered. “I believe she means accustomed to this new century.” 

“I was aware of that.” He hadn’t been but then he imagined there were many things he would have to learn on this journey ahead of him. 

Carla stuffed the book back into his hands. “Now don’t lose Diane’s address. It’s taped to the inside of the front cover and you’re going to need it after Sebastian takes care of you.” 

“My lady.” Alexander bowed politely. “I fear I must remind you of an important fact which you seem to have forgotten.” At Carla’s expectant look, he continued, “Did you not tell me the soothsayer had said your family will not remember you? If that is correct, then providing me with your sister’s address will not be of use. I certainly do not want to cause any undue distress to a woman who may not have recollection of you. Furthermore, this Sebastian chap may have no recollection of you, either, nor do 

we have any assurances the book will arrive safely intact.” 

Carla glared at him. “You let me worry about all of that.” 

“I will be more than happy to do so but I fear we may need to have an alternate 

course of action should things go awry.” 

The glare intensified. “Things won’t go awry.” 

“I do not mean to distress you, Carla. ‘Tis only for your benefit that I discuss such 

matters.” 

“Well, don’t.” Her gaze dropped to the floor before she pinned him with a steely glance. “Look, you knew going to Diane’s house was part of the deal.” 

Alexander didn’t recall making a deal but Carla did speak in a strange manner. “But why should I go if she will not know who you are?” 

“She’ll remember me and so will Sebastian.” Her voice had a definite mutinous tone. 

“But your past will be erased. How can you assume their memories of you will not be also?” Alexander felt it imperative that she understand his point. 

With a stubborn shake of her head, Carla pointed to the book. “I promise you, she will remember me. I don’t care what Letta said. My sister and I share a special bond and while my parents will be too glad to forget about me, Diane will not.” 

“How can you be so sure? Rarely is Letta wrong.” 

“She’s not wrong this time, Alex, but Sara knows how much this means to me. She brought me here and she can protect Diane’s memories of me.” 

“And what of Sebastian? Does Sara know how much he means to you as well?” 

Alexander couldn’t keep the disapproval from his voice. 

Carla chuckled. “No but Sebastian is so weird he’ll believe anything.” 

Alexander almost gasped in a most unmanly way. “Are you telling me this fellow may not remember you after all?” 

A gentle touch to his arm didn’t reassure him. “Relax, Alex. I’ve got it all under control. At least two people in New York will remember me.” 

“You are placing a lot of trust in the unknown, my Lady.” 

“You should believe her,” Sinclair spoke again and as Alexander turned his gaze to his cousin’s face, he felt the first pangs of sorrow. Soon, he would leave this world, never to return, never to see his cousin or his family again. And their memories of him would be erased, swept away like falling snow in a brisk wind. 

Alexander managed a smile in spite of his thoughts. “I think I do.” He extended his hand. “Will you miss me?” 

Sinclair grinned. “I won’t remember you.” 

Carla sucked in a sharp breath. “Sinclair, that’s not even funny. Of course, you’ll remember him.” 

Her husband held up one hand. “Let me guess. You believe Sara will allow me to retain memories of my cousin?” 

“Not Sara. The Fates. It’s difficult to explain but Sara is helping me but only with the assistance of the Fates. Not even a ghost could pull this off alone.” Carla’s smile broadened. “Though I think in life, Sara must have been a most formidable woman.” 

“Not quite as formidable as you, my love,” Sinclair returned with a wink. 

Confusion tugged at Alexander’s mind but he didn’t question Carla any further. It appeared she had her mind set on what would happen when he arrived in New York. 

“Well, if it is true that I will remember Alexander, what have I done to deserve such an…honor.” Sinclair’s hesitation over the word made Alexander punch him in the arm. 

Then the jovial moment passed and Alexander grew sober. “I believe I shall forever miss you and my family, but I cannot explain why the desire is so strong in me to leave.” 

“Maybe it’s the same reason the desire is so strong with me to stay,” Carla replied, earning a look of adoration from his cousin. 

A lump forming in his throat, Alexander clasped Sinclair’s hand and gave it a hard 

shake. “Be well, my cousin.” 

Sinclair gave a short, succinct nod. “And you.” 

The mantel clocked chimed, drawing three sets of eyes. 

“’Tis time.” Alexander broke the silence. 

Carla managed a wobbly smile. “We really will miss you, Alex.” 

Alexander convinced himself it was the dust particles in the air that caused his eyes 

to water. “But you will know I am well and living a life of great adventure.” 

“Or peril,” Sinclair added, moving away before Carla could jab an elbow in his side. He grinned at his cousin and swept one hand toward the door. “Let us away then. Your destiny awaits, my cousin.” 

Alexander could only hope. 

Chapter One 

Saturday morning. The first day of yet another weekend. Not that the weekend was anything special with the children gone to visit their grandparents. 

Diane stood beneath the heated spray of the shower and tipped her face to the water. Steam poured out over the shower curtain and fogged the mirror. As her hands soaped her body, she recalled the dream she’d had last night. 

It had been a fantasy really. A hot fantasy where a passionate lover did wild things to her body and brought her to mind-numbing orgasm. Definitely, a fantasy. Things like that did not happen to her. 

But right now, the vivid images of the dream played over and over in her mind, causing her to squirm as her pussy began to throb. One soapy hand slipped down over her stomach, reaching for the moisture between her thighs. 

Her head fell back on a sigh as her finger found her clit. “Mmmmm.” 

In her mind, the same lover from the night before stood behind her—bold, strong and dominating—his cock heavy and long. She couldn’t picture his face but then she didn’t need to see that part of him. For now, the visions of his muscular body and strong hands were enough. 

Finger sinking deep into the musky recesses of her body, Diane lurched forward, pressing her other hand against the tiled wall. Cream bathed her fingers but it wasn’t enough. Diane wanted a hard, powerful orgasm, one which would stagger her breath 

and buckle her knees. 

God, how long had it been since she’d had one of those? 

Withdrawing her hand, she stood on tiptoe to remove the shower massager. Adjusting the dial to pulse, she propped one foot up on the tub and leaned back against the wall, angling the pumping stream toward her clit. 

At the first thrust of the water against her sensitized flesh, she moaned aloud and thrust her shoulders back. Her free hand played with her nipples, pinching them until 

the peaks hardened. Her foot slipped against the porcelain and her knees dipped lower as the watery thrusts pulsed against her clit. 

“Oh God,” she moaned, widening the gap in her legs. Heat splashed her cheeks and the steamy air curled her hair around her temples. Her breaths came in short pants as she neared her orgasm. 

She imagined thick fingers pushing deep and hard into her pussy and her eyelids drifted closed, allowing her mind to create the perfect lover. 

He’d be hard and muscled, tall with broad shoulders and thick thighs. Warm palms would grasp her ass to press her against his throbbing cock. Diane could picture the smooth head, already wet with need. 

God, how long had it been? 

While her imaginary lover whispered in her ear and brushed the hair away from her face, she twisted and turned the shower massager, pressing it harder against her clit then backing away. Closer then farther, simulating the thrusts of a swollen cock. 

But the water was insufficient. It couldn’t fill the emptiness inside her. She ached with the need for fulfillment, the craving to feel her muscles clench around flesh slick with her own juices. 

She changed the spray, allowing it to caress her ass, the water gliding down between the globes. Lifting the massager, she held it over her shoulder and felt the stream sluice over her breasts, warming her puckered nipples. 

Massaging her abdomen, she pressed her back against the tiled wall while the warmth caressed her. Awash in the heat and images, she whispered a plea to the man in her dreams—the one who would fulfill her wildest fantasies without disappointing her in the morning. 

Her pussy began to ache, begging for the return of the pulse. She adjusted the dial and dipped the water low once more, holding it close to her clit. The hard shot caused her hips to jut forward and she gasped. 

“That’s it. That’s it,” she began to chant. 

Her lover pulled her even tighter against his throbbing cock, nipping her ear, her neck and offering words of encouragement which pushed her closer toward the orgasm she desperately needed. 

The water pounded her nub relentlessly, sending shivers of sensation up and down her arms, her legs and drawing the breath from her lungs. Her muscles began to clench, 

her abdomen tightening. 

“Yes!” she screamed just as the orgasm slammed into her, nearly doubling her over. 

The water continued to pump against her sensitized clit and Diane welcomed the 

remaining tingles while she continued to spasm. Then with a deep breath, the massager dropped from her hand and she leaned both hands against the wall in front of her while tears dripped down her face. * * * * * 

“When are the children returning? It seems like forever since I’ve seen them.” Sandra Morgan’s imperious tone grated on Diane’s nerves, making her pleasure of the morning dissipate instantly. 

“They’ve only been gone for two weeks, Mother. You know they spend every summer with Sam’s family.” In Diane’s opinion, that was the lesser of two evils. The O’Haras were generally nice people who’d tried to raise their son well. It wasn’t their fault Sam had gone to work for Baylor Industries and immediately fallen beneath the spell of corruption. 

“Yes, and I’ve wondered about that.” A long paused followed along with the sounds of Sandra’s nails tapping against the telephone. 

Diane didn’t have to wait long for her mother to jump on the same old bandwagon. 

“Why do you allow your children to spend so much time with Sam’s family and yet, I can barely get an evening with them every three or four weeks?” Ice dripped from the words. 

There was no nice way for Diane to tell her mother that she didn’t want her children exposed to the Morgans any longer than they had to be. God knows, Sandra had done enough damage with her own child. 

“Mother, could we not go into this again? I talked with the children this morning and they said to tell you hi and that they love you.” She hoped to distract her mother with the white lie. Her conversation with Jake and Amy was the truth but no mention had been made of Sandra. As bitchy as it might sound, Diane preferred it that way. 

A car horn blared behind her, irritating her already frazzled nerves. She inched the sports car a millimeter further in the bumper to bumper traffic. “So now that that is settled—“ 

“I’m serious, Diane. Your father and I have talked about this and we both agree that you’re avoiding us. Not only that, you’re keeping us from seeing our grandchildren.” 

“The only time you want to see Jake and Amy is when there is some type of business function and you need to use them as the perfect trophy grandchildren,” Diane spat the words out with brittle indignity. 

The silence which followed seemed to thicken the air with the threat of Sandra Morgan’s wrath. 

“My, my, my. You’re turning into quite the bitch, aren’t you?” 

Sandra’s words didn’t sting as intended. Diane had gotten past that a long time ago. She gripped the cell phone between her shoulder and her ear and maneuvered the shiny red sports car into the left lane. 

“What? No response, darling?” 

Oh, Diane had plenty of responses but none she wanted to voice at present. She had a meeting with a potential client in —she checked her watch—dammit! Ten minutes ago! She was already late. 

“Mother, I have to go. I’m running late and traffic is a bitch. I need to concentrate.” 

“Really, Diane. It’s that the best excuse you can come up with for ending a conversation with your own mother?” 

Diane gritted her teeth. No, she could say ”fuck you”, but she doubted Sandra Morgan would appreciate that any better. “Look, I’ll call you later.” She always gave 

vague timeframes when dealing with her mother. 

“Fine, but I will at least expect to see you at brunch tomorrow.” 

“Brunch?” Diane drew a blank. When the hell had this ”brunch” been planned? 

“Yes, the brunch. I told you about it two weeks ago, Diane, and do not tell me you forgot or you cannot make it. It’s simply unacceptable that you have gone three weeks without so much as one visit. Besides that, your father’s entire senior staff will be here and how will it look if you’re not? Unacceptable. That’s how it would look. Now, I demand your attendance tomorrow.” 

Of course, Sandra Morgan would demand and what she wanted, she usually got. Damn. Diane knew before she ended the conversation that she would give in, if nothing else, to shut her mother up. 

“Okay, fine. I’ll be there. What time does it start again?” 

A long pause followed. “It’s brunch, Diane. Don’t you know when most brunches start? Have you gotten that far away from your friends? Fine. If you would bother to respond to my telephone messages, you would know that the brunch starts at eleven.” 

Sweat beaded on Diane’s brow while her temples throbbed in time to the beat of the radio blaring from a green hot rod idling next to her. “Mother, it’s been one hell of a week. I’ve barely had time to eat dinner much less check phone messages.” From people she didn’t want to talk to. 

“Language, Diane.” The words came out as a slap on the hand. 

Her molars ached. “Sorry. Great. Now my cell phone is about to die. I forgot to charge it up this morning. So I’ll see you later then.” 

“Sunday,” Sandra snapped. “That’s tomorrow, Diane, and believe me when I tell you that I will accept no excuses if you are not present at precisely eleven a.m. In fact, I—“ 

Diane snapped the cell phone shut with one hand and tossed it into the passenger seat. “Oops. My cell phone died, Mother,” she muttered nastily before smacking the wheel with the palm of her hand. “Goddammit! How do I get myself into this shit and why can’t I get myself out of it?” 

* * * * * “Keep moving, buddy. We don’t have all day.” The gruff voice behind Alexander compelled him forward, jostling him toward a 

row of waiting yellow buggies with wheels. With the poetry book clenched tightly in one hand, he made his way to the last buggy and tapped on the window according to Carla’s instructions. 

The driver barely lifted a hand and Alexander fumbled with the door handle until the man barked at him to hurry up. The smoothness of the metal proved to be a little more difficult than Carla had explained in her notes but with a triumphant sound, Alexander managed to open the door. 

“It’s about time, genius.” 

The tone was nothing short of nasty but Alexander was too fascinated to take offense. He was here. New York. The twenty-first century. 

“Where to?” 

A cloud of cigar smoke puffed out into the air while Alexander checked the note. “Broadway and West 170th Street. I believe that’s Washington Heights.” 

The driver looked over his shoulder with a glare. “You trying to be funny?” 

Alexander blinked at him, searching for the humor in his words. “No. I can assure you I was not.” 

“Then sit back and leave the driving to me. I know my way around New York.” The man turned back around but not before Alexander heard the words “fucking foreigner”. Thick meaty hand clenching the wheel of the strange contraption, the driver barked once more. “Put your seatbelt on. I require it in my car.” 

Belt? These buggies had belts? A few annoying seconds passed before Alexander was finally able to locate a thick strap of fabric attached to the seat. “Is this what you mean by seatbelt?” 

A loud screech brought the buggy to a halt and Alexander found himself staring into coal black eyes set in a heavy-jowled face. “You’ve got to be fucking kidding me. You mean to tell me there’s no seatbelts where you come from?” Without waiting for an answer, the driver leaned over the seat and gave a yank on the strap. “Here. Just put this over your shoulder and snap that buckle. Think you can handle that? Jesus. I hope you’re not planning on staying long. We’ve got enough freaks in this city.” 

Alexander smiled. Only forever. * * * * * Diane kicked off her shoes at the front door and leaned against the heavy wood just as the rain began to come down in buckets. She’d barely made it inside before the deluge and now, with the sheets of water streaming over her windows and the soft 

glow of the lamps lining the street, the scene was set for a perfect, romantic evening. 

For other people. 

Diane didn’t have anyone to be romantic with. Not that she was looking. Sam had given her enough reasons to stay away from men for a very long time. 

The bottle of Merlot seemed to call her name and Diane heeded its command, her stockinged feet slipping across the polished pine floors to retrieve a stemmed crystal glass. As the burgundy liquid flowed into the wineglass, Diane felt a breeze brush her hair. Just a soft touch but enough to be noticeable. 

She stilled, one hand resting atop the marble counter. The feeling wasn’t unfamiliar. For the past eight months, she’d gotten these strange sensations, as if she wasn’t alone even when she was. 

At first, the sensations had come as just the slightest of touches. Then the curtains would flutter against the windows though no breeze stirred them. And now, when Diane crawled beneath the crisp, cotton sheets at night, she felt a presence, warm and comforting as though someone who really cared for her was watching over her. 

Taking a sip of the wine, Diane leaned one hip against the cabinet door below the sink and allowed her thoughts to scatter, grabbing pieces of a puzzle she hadn’t quite managed to put together yet. 

She remembered a woman. Strong. Beautiful and powerful. They seemed connected somehow, but Diane wasn’t quite sure how. In the back of her mind, she’d felt this tie like perhaps their bloodlines were united but then she knew how ludicrous that was. But her doubts didn’t stop Diane from wondering why these twinges had begun haunting her. 

The air stirred and swirled around her like tiny butterflies dancing in the wind. Diane sucked in a sharp breath and held it as a woman’s face came into view. Though hazy, the image was clear enough to allow Diane to see the outline of a face almost identical to her own. 

The glass dropped and shattered against the wood floor. * * * * * “Hell and damnation,” Alexander cursed as the strange-looking contraption he rode in whooshed down the street at a ghastly speed. One hand clutched the handle of the door while the city sped past him and rain poured from the sky. “Is there any need to travel at such a high rate of speed?” Alexander finally asked when the buggy slowed to a stop amidst the sloshing streets. The driver spat out the window. “If you want to get anywhere, it is. Don’t you have cars in—where the hell are you from anyway?” 

“I’m from England and we have buggies.” 

“Ah, yeah. The damned language barrier. Well, don’t your buggies go this fast in England?” 

“Certainly not.” Alexander could only imagine the horror on the ladies’ faces should a carriage travel at such velocity. There would be absolute mayhem. Even now 

he could hear the screams for mercy. 

“Then you’re in for a shock here, buddy. People tend to haul ass.” 

The man’s words caused Alexander’s brain to spin so he focused his attention on the book in his hand. He practically memorized the well-worn pages once he’d boarded the ship but two days into the voyage, he lost all sense of time. He’d gone to sleep and woke up in New York Harbor. 

In the year 2005. 

“I made it, Carla,” he whispered. But somehow he knew Carla was aware of his arrival. Even now, he could feel her smile. 

The buggy came to another sudden stop and Alexander jerked forward. The belt stopped him from slamming his head against the back of the seat in front of him but the 

material bit into his chest. 

“We’re here,” the driver snapped. “That’ll be forty-five bucks.” 

“Yes. If you would be so kind as to wait, I shall be down with your fare shortly.” 

Shoulders stiffening, the driver turned and Alexander found himself staring at the muzzle of short black musket. “You’ll pay me now.” 

* * * * * 

The face moved closer until Diane could see the thick eyelashes, the smooth line of the brow. Her hand lifted and reached out to touch but she only encountered air. 

“Who are you? And why do I feel like I know you?” 

The full lips curved into a beautiful smile…so peaceful that it almost took Diane’s 

breath away. 

Shock settled in the pit of her stomach. “I do know you!” Memories scattered in her mind, playing out in front of her like images from a movie reel. 

Two girls, dressed identically, sitting on a porch swing, their feet dangling inches from the wooden porch. The sounds of glasses breaking. Shouting come from inside a screen door while the same two girls hummed and giggled, clapping their hands in time to their own tune. 

Grasping the edge of the counter to keep herself aloft, Diane recognized the smallest of the girls. It was her at age eight. She remembered the day so well. Her parents had been fighting and her mother had thrown a glass at her father. Only then…Diane had been alone on the porch swing. 

This time…she was sitting beside her sister. Carla. * * * * * Alexander quickly ascertained that no amount of gentlemanly conduct was going to help him out of this situation but facing the barrel of that musket was downright distasteful, especially when he was unarmed. “My good man, if you will lower your weapon and allow me to speak, I shall 

explain the situation forthwith.” 

The driver made a rude noise. “Forthwith, my ass. Give me my fucking money.” 

Alexander held his hands away from his body. “You will be fully compensated for 

your services if you will allow me to take my leave of you for but mere moments.” 

Black eyes shifting, the driver scooted around in the seat to peer down into Alexander’s lap. “Well, if you’re going to be gone, I’m gonna need some collateral.” 

One eyebrow raised, Alexander assessed the request. A ransom seemed reasonable enough but he didn’t care for the way the driver was eyeing the book of poetry. “What shall it be then?” He held up one finger. “Never mind. I have just the thing.” 

One hand dug into the pocket of his cutaway, quickly retrieving the gold pocket watch he’d bought at a merchant’s table the previous year. It had only cost two pence but perhaps ‘twould be enough to pacify the driver. 

The second Alexander held the watch aloft, the man snatched it, staring down at the embossed lid with rounded eyes. 

“Holy Hell Hannah! Is this thing real?” He held it up to his ear. “It works! Do you know how much this thing is worth?” 

Alexander stared at the back of the driver’s head and debated whether or not to tell him the truth. Instead, he changed the subject. “So ‘twill be enough for you to await your monies then?” 

“Huh?” The driver barely looked up from the watch. “Yeah. Yeah. You go ahead and get the money. I’ll keep a good eye on your watch here. I’m an antique collector so I’ll take good care of it. Well, I only dabble really but I know something worth money when I see it. Now, you go on. Lucky for you, the rain’s stopped so you won’t get wet having to run back and forth. But I’ll be waiting right here.” He seemed to emphasize those words. 

Alexander already had the door open and was ready to take his leave. “Then I shall return anon.” 

He doubted the driver even heard him as he closed the door. Straightening, he got a good look at the city which was now his home. 

Everywhere he looked he saw people, large buildings and blinking lights. He thought he was ready to face a new century, but as he stood on the street, Alexander realized all of Carla’s teaching had not really prepared him for Manhattan, New York, 2005. 

A loud honk startled him out of his musings and a voluminous bag bumped his hip as its carrier waddled off the edge of the curb in the face of the blinking green light. His mouth hung open, but he didn’t move one step. 

Everywhere he looked, he saw odd-looking structures, massive buildings made of glass and people—more people than he’d ever seen in his life. Women dressed in breeches and holding black square boxes against their ears and men with gold rings dangling from their own ears. 

A young lad zoomed by riding what appeared to be a board with wheels attached and-Alexander recoiled—his hair was green! Egads! Where had Carla sent him? 

“Hey, buddy, you waiting for a different color?” came a nasally voice over his left shoulder. 

Alexander frowned and looked up. A light blinked green overhead and other people were crossing the street to the opposite corner. Something bumped against his spine and shoved him forward. He stumbled, and a loud blast resounded in his ears. He looked up in time to see a man inside one of those rolling contraptions with his middle finger extended. 

Though he wasn’t familiar with any of the modern day mannerisms, instincts told him the gesture wasn’t one of civility. Cursing below his breath, Alexander tugged the folded sheet of parchment paper from the back pocket of his breeches and tipped his head back to see the building where Carla’s friend supposedly lived. 

“Say, buddy, you going to a play?” 

Alexander looked over his shoulder. “I beg your pardon?” 

“That’s a strange getup you’re wearing.” The man wore baggy pants which resembled a burlap sack and a thin cotton shirt with more holes than material. He grinned, showing a front tooth which drew Alexander’s attention. 

Was that gold? He leaned in for a better look. “Is that a gold tooth you have?” 

The man took a step back. “Yeah, and I intend to keep it.” He flicked a blade, waving it back and forth in front of Alexander’s face in a threatening manner. “So don’t try anything funny.” 

Alexander had enough threats for one day. Already he could see that this New York was home to a lot of hooligans. He took a defensive stance, grasped hold of the man’s wrist and forced it back. The knife dropped to the ground as the man yelped in pain. 

“Now, be gone with you before my temper gets the best of me,” Alexander commanded, watching the baggy pants drop even lower as his attacker ran up the street. 

Bloody hell. His attention returned to the sheet of paper which he’d crumpled in his right hand. Sebastian Hanniker. Poor chap had a moniker no gentleman in his right mind would claim. 

“So Sebastian Hanniker, you shall be the one to save me from this ghastly place, or at the very least, teach me how to live in it.” * * * * * Diane stood in the center of her kitchen amidst broken glass, her mouth hanging open. “I have a sister?” Her words seemed to echo across the room, bouncing back to her ears. The face continued to smile. 

“How could I possibly have a sister and not know before now? How could I have forgotten…wait…how could my entire family have forgotten you? Or maybe they haven’t forgotten you at all. Do they just not know you exist?” The question didn’t even make sense. 

Shaky legs carried her into the living room with its plush furniture and polished antiques. She sank down onto the smooth linen sofa and blinked rapidly, trying to assimilate the information. 

“Okay, so if I have a sister named Carla—“ she lifted a finger and pointed toward the air—“and that’s you, then why am I just now figuring this out? Have you been here all along?” 

The face wobbled in front of her like some eerie theater mask and Diane held up one hand. “You’ve really got to stop doing that. It’s freaking me out.” She held her head in her hands. “No, actually, I’ve just gone crazy. That’s it. My mother has finally sent me over the edge.” 

As if the sound of her name induced Sandra to call, the phone rang. Diane jumped to her feet with a shriek and raced to silence the clatter. With one hand on the receiver, she looked back only to find the face had dissolved. 

But the memories remained intact. 

“Hello?” Her answer was breathless. 

“Diane, we have to talk.” Sandra Morgan’s voice made Diane’s knees go weak. 

“Yes, Mother, I think we do.” 

* * * * * Carla’s warning was a bit understated in Alexander’s opinion. The man Alexander assumed was Sebastian Hanniker looked positively peculiar when he answered the wooden door wearing little more than his drawers. Alexander took a step back and cleared his throat, keeping his eyes averted from the man’s nude chest. Had Mr. Hanniker no decency? A gentleman did not walk around unclothed! And he’d just climbed an ungodly number of stairs for this view. 

“Who the hell are you?” Sebastian coughed and spat toward the threadbare carpeting beneath Alexander’s feet. “And what do you want? I’m not buying nothing.” 

“I can assure you, sir,” the use of the very word made him cringe, “I am not here to 

peddle wares.” Though Sebastian’s bushy eyebrows arched, Alexander continued, “I have been sent to you along with this note.” 

Bony fingers curled around the thin paper Alexander extended. “So what are you— like some kind of gift?” His lips curled into a sneer. 

Alexander contemplated the man’s question in complete perplexity. “Absolutely not. Read the note, my man, and you shall soon see for yourself.” 

Sebastian burped and flung the rickety door open wider. “Well, since you’re here, you might as well come in.” 

Taking a look over his shoulder, Alexander stepped inside. At once, he felt suffocated. The walls seemed to close in around him, stifling the very breath from his lungs. There was no space anywhere—just parchments and odd rectangular boxes with writing atop them. The air itself smelled foul much like the stables at Sinclair’s estate. 

And the chairs were covered in some type of sticky-looking material. Alexander moved in closer for a better look. Thumping the seat with his knuckles, he frowned. It wasn’t sticky, after all, but it certainly didn’t feel too comfortable. 

As Sebastian continued to read the note, Alexander walked around the tiny room like a sentry, pausing occasionally to tap on the wall or inspect the large white box in the kitchen. When he opened the door and felt a blast of cool air, he was instantly fascinated. 

After Alexander had opened and closed the door several times, Sebastian looked up, spectacles perched on the end of his hawk-like nose. “What are you doing that for?” 

Alexander folded his hands in front of him. “Oh, forgive me. I’ve just never seen one of these.” 

The man snorted. “It’s called a refrigerator, genius.” He went back to reading the note. 

Though the man’s tone was derogatory, Alexander told himself he wouldn’t take offense. Carla knew this man well, and besides that, he was in no position to be particular about who helped him now that he’d arrived in the twenty-first century. 

Sebastian crumpled the paper and looked Alexander up and down. “They really did make ‘em fruity-looking back then.” He coughed and cackled at his own joke. “So you’re really from the past, are you? Can’t say I’m impressed.” 

“So you remember her then?” 

“’Course I remember her.” Sebastian stared at him oddly. “What makes you think I wouldn’t?” 

Alexander shook his head. “Never mind.” Was there no end to the assistance Carla had received? 

One thin shoulder lifted in a shrug and Sebastian coughed again. Well, Carla has sent me a shitload to deal with and she had to do it on a Saturday. Fuck me.” He crumpled the note and jerked his head toward the opposite end of the room. “We might as well get started then. Come on. Let’s get you out of those clothes.” 

Alexander stumbled back toward the door, his hands raised into fists. “I say not! I will not unclothe myself!” 

Beady eyes surveyed Alexander. “Well, Austin Powers, you can’t traipse around Manhattan dressed like an idiot and that’s where Carla’s sister lives. In Manhattan and that’s Ritzville. I’m talking upper class. You have to be spit-polished and shined before you can even walk the streets in that part of town. Now,” he jerked his thumb toward a dark hallway, “I got some stuff back here you can probably wear. I try to keep some in stock. Never know when some bastard trying to outrun the law will need a fresh set of clothes. I usually make a good buck on those.” 

Though Alexander followed the man down the hallway, he had absolutely no idea what Sebastian Hanniker was talking about or if he even wanted to know. 

Chapter Two 

“Fuck!” Diane slammed the receiver down, her head drooping. Why was she not surprised that her mother had only called to talk about what she intended to wear to brunch? 

And why hadn’t she gotten up the courage to question her mother about Carla? Would Sandra think she was going crazy? 

Diane gave an almost hysterical laugh and dragged the hair away from her shoulders, plodding back into the living room. It wouldn’t surprise her if both of her parents already thought she was crazy. God knew Sam had practically driven her over the edge. 

With the remembrance of Sam came the bitterness of his passing. With the discovery of her husband’s death came the knowledge that he’d been carrying on an affair with the pert little secretary Baylor Morgan had just hired. And God only knew how long that had been going on. 

Of course, Diane had been none the wiser—nor would she have cared had she known. As long as Sam was leaving her alone in the bedroom, she was happy. Shuddering at the recollection of his futile attempts to bring her to orgasm, she dropped back down onto the sofa and pulled her legs beneath her. 

Sam went about lovemaking the same way he approached business. Cut to the chase. Be as quick about it as possible and move onto the next item on his agenda. Diane had only been too thankful when he’d appeared to have lost interest in her sexually and she had been able to go back to pleasuring herself without interference. At least that way she knew she’d have an orgasm. 

Closing her eyes, she rested her head back against the sofa, allowing the peaceful silence to cocoon her. She felt safe, rested and at the moment, calm. 

The phone rang again and Diane groaned. Sandra Morgan was a consummate pain in the ass. 

“Go away, Mother.” 

The noise only continued and when the answering machine picked up, the ringing stopped only to begin again in a matter of seconds. 

“Determined bitch,” Diane muttered, pushing herself to her feet again. She 

snatched the receiver and barked an unfriendly greeting. “What?” 

“That is not how you answer the phone, young lady.” 

The sound of her father’s voice had Diane’s shoulders squaring. What in the hell? Baylor Morgan never—never—called her. She cleared her throat. “Dad? What’s going on?” 

Without wasting time with greetings or any pleasantries, Baylor continued, “Since you will be joining us for brunch tomorrow, I’ve taken the liberty of inviting a young man from the office I’d like you to meet.” 

Horror clawed its way up her stomach. Her father was trying to set her up again! With another man from his office! “Dad, I’m not interested in—“ 

“Diane, your interests have little bearing on the situation. Your children need a father and I believe I’m more than capable of choosing the proper man for the job.” 

“Have you forgotten that you chose Sam?” 

A long, deadly silence filtered over the phone line. “Sam was a perfectly good husband.” 

“He was with his mistress when he was killed!” 

“Yes, well, perhaps if you had been a more suitable wife—“ 

Diane didn’t let her father say another word. Instead, she slammed the receiver into place and promptly switched the ringer off. 

“Suitable wife,” she scoffed. “I did everything for that man. Everything.” Turning her glare on the phone, she lifted a finger to point. “Did you hear that? Everything! I gave up my own hopes and dreams to satisfy his and where did that get me? I was 

miserable, you pompous son-of-a-bitch. Miserable! And now that Sam is dead, I’m not going back to being a wife. Ever.” 

The answering machine began to whir as she whipped out of the kitchen, heading toward the staircase. Let her father have his say but she certainly wouldn’t listen to it. 

The wooden floors felt cool beneath her feet as she climbed the stairs to the second floor of the three-story townhouse. The light in the hallway flickered briefly and Diane gave a bitter laugh, remembering Sam’s vehement refusal to hire an electrician. 

He would fix it. Of course, that was just one more thing on his list. The top had always been kissing her father’s ass. 

Sam had intended to climb straight to the top of the ladder at Morgan Industries, but the traffic accident eight months ago had effectively ended his ambition. And even if she wanted to, Diane couldn’t hate herself for feeling only relief when the deputy sheriff had shown up at her front door. 

The funeral had been a joke. Diane’s mother had wrung her embroidered handkerchief and cried crocodile tears while Baylor Morgan had stood by the casket reminding guests that Sam was like a son to him. And Diane had left the procession with her two kids, going home alone. 

That was the way of her family. The Morgans believed in grieving in private and they certainly didn’t offer shoulders for comfort. That might wrinkle their linen shirts. 

Diane walked across the threshold of the bedroom she’d shared with Sam, ever grateful that she’d replaced the king-size bed they’d slept in. Sandra Morgan had been horrified at the swiftness of the changes Diane had made. 

But Sandra hadn’t had to live with Sam O’Hara. 

“Wherever you are, Carla, I hope you’re happy.” Though the idea was preposterous, Diane knew, somehow, that Carla was still alive. 

And now that she’d realized she had a sister, she intended to find out anything and everything about her. 

* * * * * 

In the bright light of back bedchamber, Alexander got an even better look at Carla’s friend. This man had more gold circles in his ears than he’d seen in the chap earlier in the day. And his hair hadn’t been combed in quite some time. It stood on end, except for the back which was flat against his head. 

His face was angular with deep grooves and a pointed chin. All said, had Alexander met Sebastian Hanniker in the nineteenth century, he wouldn’t have trusted him. Now, he had no choice. 

Another burp emanated from Sebastian, and this time, he scratched his crotch as well. Alexander swallowed hard. What kind of hell was this? 

Sebastian turned slightly and closed one eye as if assessing the situation. “Carla said you’d need some money, too. You got an idea about how to spend it?” He shook his head before Alexander could respond. “Never mind. Hell, anybody looking at you can tell you’re green as moss. It’s going to take me at least a couple of days to get you the paperwork you need to be legal and all. I’m sure you didn’t come equipped with papers, did you?” 

At Alexander’s blank stare, Sebastian continued, “Of course not. That would be too much to hope for. So as I was saying, you need to try to stay out of trouble. The last thing I need is a phone call from you because you done got your ass locked up for doing something stupid. Hell, I might be tempted to let you rot in there for a few days—if I didn’t owe Carla so much.” 

As the bony man searched through a narrow closet, he kept up a running commentary. “That woman has saved my ass more times than I can count. I can’t believe I’ll never see her again.” He sniffed, and for a moment, Alexander thought Sebastian was going to cry. 

How unmanly! Alexander tried not to shudder, but in his time, men did not express their emotions in such a manner, especially in front of a guest. 

Alexander cleared his throat and quickly changed the subject. “Pardon my interruption, Mr. Hanniker, but I am curious about the mode of transportation used in this century. The buggies have wheels and run extremely fast even without horses.” Sebastian snorted and swiped his hand underneath his nose. “Oh, they got horsepower all right but it’s under the hood. Those were cars, automobiles.” He raised his head. “They weren’t around until the early twentieth century. Ole Henry Ford wasn’t even a gleam in his daddy’s eye yet.” 

Having no idea who this Henry Ford fellow was, Alexander frowned but before he could contemplate the matter further, Sebastian interrupted him. 

“By the way, you haven’t said how you got here.” 

“In a cab.” The word sounded strange to Alexander’s ears. 

Sebastian straightened. “What’d you pay him with?” His eyes gleamed suspiciously. 

“Damnation!” Alexander rushed out of the room and down the hallway, the little man trying to keep pace with him. “I assured him he would receive his fare forthwith and here I’ve been conversing with you.” 

“Hold on there, Sport.” Sebastian snatched hold of the sleeve of Alexander’s shirt. “Are you telling me that a New York taxi driver let you get out of his car without paying? That’s about as likely as—“ 

“My arrival in the twenty-first century?” Alexander interrupted, irritation coloring his voice. 

Sebastian scratched the back of his neck. “Well, you got me there but I still don’t believe it. Cab drivers aren’t the trusting type.” 

“I did have to leave some collateral behind but I assured him I would return.” 

“Collateral?” Sebastian pushed his spectacles further up his nose. “What kind of collateral?” 

“A pocket watch I’d purchased at market a few days before I left.” 

Sebastian began to laugh and the harder he laughed, the more his thin body shook. Finally, a fit a coughing seized him and he staggered back, his shoulder thumping the wall behind him. “Oh, Jesus. I needed that!” 

Where in the bloody hell had Carla sent him? Or rather, who had she sent him to? “Might I ask what you find so amusing?” 

Tears streaming down his cheeks, Sebastian managed to stand upright. “If you really think that cab driver is still down on the street waiting for you, well then you’re a dumbass. That watch you gave you him is probably worth at least a thousand dollars.” 

Still chuckling, Sebastian turned around and ambled back down the hallway. “Come on, Opie. Let’s see if we can educate you some before you give away your ancestors’ homeland.” 

Anger rushed through his veins but Alexander kept a tight rein on his temper. Unleashing his fury on the man who was supposed to help him definitely wouldn’t be a good move. “So Carla believes you can help me adjust to this new life then?” He leaned one shoulder against the doorframe of the bedchamber, contemplating this new situation he found himself in. 

In his world, he was knowledgeable, experienced and well able to handle himself. Here, he was as helpless as a newborn babe. He didn’t like the feeling. 

Sebastian turned, holding a pair of breeches which looked as rough as a tree trunk. “Boy, I ain’t got enough time to teach you over two hundred years worth of history and technology. I’m just going do what I can. Then you’re on your own.” He held up one hand. “Now, don’t get me wrong. I’m not going to let you flounder none, but I can’t take you to raise. As for helping you adjust, well that’s something you’re just going to have to learn on your own. I’m not saying it’s going to be easy but you’re the one who wanted to come here.” 

More coughing accompanied his words. “I have a friend of mine who may be able to get you on the road crew. They don’t check too much into your background. It’s hard work but you look like you could hold your own.” 

The man spoke in riddles. “I have never been afraid of hard work, Mr. Hanniker.” Though he had no idea what a road crew was, he was sure it would be a task he could tackle. 

“Yeah, well, I guess we’ll see. If Ross can’t get you on there, then there’s always construction. They got a bunch of illegals working, too, so I don’t expect they’d mind one more.” 

More confused than ever, Alexander walked to the window of the minuscule bedchamber. His chest felt constricted, and he recognized the need for wide open space, clean air to breathe. But a heavy fog hung in the air, making Alexander homesick for the beauty of his homeland. He needed fresh air, a place to clear his head, preferably a place which didn’t include noisy cars and thin little men who irritated the hell out of him. 

“Might I ask where a gentleman goes to clear his mind around here?” 

Sebastian jerked his thumb toward the open door. “There’s a bar up the street. Seems to help most guys drown their sorrows.” 

“If you’re referring to libations, Mr. Hanniker, I’ve never been much of a drinker.” 

Carla’s friend wrinkled his nose. “Libations? Do me a favor. Stop talking like a 

pussy.” 

Alexander recoiled. The man’s tone was sharp, almost threatening. “I beg your pardon.” 

Sebastian held his palms up in the air. “See? That’s what I’m talking about! You keep saying words like ‘libations’, ‘breeches’ and ‘I beg your pardon’, and you’re liable 

to get your ass kicked before the day is out.” 

“I am more than capable of taking care of myself.” 

“Against a gun?” 

“Look, Mr. Hanniker, while I appreciate your ‘generosity’—“Alexander said the 

word with more than a hint of nastiness—“I will certainly not tolerate your rudeness, 

and in my time, calling a gentleman a part of the female anatomy is a definite lack of civility.” Sebastian’s narrow eyes raked him up and down. “Oh, yeah. You’re gonna get your ass kicked. And how. I just hope I’m there to see it.” * * * * * 

Good God. The brunch seemed to go on forever, and with Gentleman Dan hanging on her left arm, the “proper gentleman” her father had introduced her to the moment she’d arrived, Diane was in a fresh kind of hell. 

Dan hadn’t stopped rambling on about his new position at Morgan Enterprises and his complete devotion to her father. Diane had quickly tuned him out and was now searching her mother’s spacious dining room for a quick, unobtrusive exit. 

“Diane.” 

Looking up, Diane was startled to see her mother standing less than two inches 

away from her and even more surprised to see that Dan had disappeared. 

“Hello, Mother.” 

Sandra took hold of her arm and frog-marched her to the opposite end of the dining 

room where few guests gathered. “Dan is looking bored.” 

“He’s not the only one,” Diane muttered. 

Expertly manicured fingernails dug into Diane’s arm. “Your father truly admires 

him, Diane, and the least you could do is exert yourself a little and entertain him.” 

“I’m sorry. I wasn’t aware I was invited as the entertainment for this festive get together.” 

Sandra’s jaws audibly snapped together and with fury gleaming in her eyes, she released Diane and spun on her heel, no doubt to seek out Baylor’s assistance. 

In scant seconds, Diane felt her father’s dominating presence and though nerves settled in the pit of her stomach, she faced him. “Father, how nice of you to actually come over and speak to me in front of your guests.” 

“What in the hell is the matter with you, young lady?” Baylor Morgan’s booming voice carried over the din of clattering silverware against plates and the low hum of conversation. 

The room fell silent and Diane felt the blood rush to her face. Humiliation was Baylor Morgan’s specialty. “Whatever is wrong with me, I don’t think now is the appropriate time to discuss this.” 

Snagging hold of her arm in a much tighter grip than Sandra had, Baylor towed her out into the marbled hallway, his long, thundering strides revealing his displeasure. Once they’d achieved a modicum of privacy, he spun to face her. 

“I won’t stand for this, Diane. You owe it to your children to find a good father, to help them grow up to be the best they can be.” 

“You mean the best in your eyes. My children are happy and healthy, Father. They don’t need assistance from yet another one of your protégés.” 

Baylor folded his arms across his chest. “I see. Well, then perhaps your mother was right.” 

Suspicion became a tight ball in the center of her chest. “Right about what?” She was sure she didn’t want to know. 

“She’s been having her doubts all along about whether or not you’re capable of properly taking care of your children without Sam.” 

Horror took root and Diane staggered backwards. “What are you saying?” Deep in her heart, she already knew but she had to hear it from his lips, to know the depths he would sink to get his own way. 

Baylor smirked. “I think you know, Diane, but I’ll be happy to spell it out for you. Your mother and I could do a much better job at raising your children than you ever could. You should remember that before you disdain any of our suggestions.” 

He didn’t give her time to respond before he brushed past her and rejoined the guests in the dining room. 

And while the chatter resumed and muted laughter reached her ears, Diane could only stand in the hallway, trying to quell the nausea rising in her stomach. * * * * * 

Sunday evening 

Sebastian brought the rattling car to an abrupt stop and lifted a bony finger to point toward a street glowing with lamplights. “She lives down that street as far as I can remember.” 

“She lives on Morton Street,” Alexander murmured, checking the piece of parchment in his hand. 

“Yeah, well, that’s it. And this is as far as I go. Never have cared for Carla’s sister. I’ve never met a more uppity bitch in my life. Can’t even believe she and Carla are related. So anyway, haul ass and don’t forget your suitcase. I’ll try to get that paperwork to you within a week or so but there ain’t no guarantees. Until then, lay low. Now ain’t the time to go sight-seeing or anything.” 

“From what Carla has said about her sister, I do not believe your assessment of her character is accurate.” 

Sebastian spit out the window. “Who the fuck cares? Now, get out. I’m going to be late for my poker game and the last time that happened, I had to sit out a hand. There’s money in the suitcase, enough for you to stay in a hotel for at least a night or two. I think there’s one right up the street from here but it won’t be cheap. Just don’t let them shit you.” 

“I’m not sure I follow you.” 

“Nothing. Never mind. Clock’s ticking.” 

Alexander had barely tugged the suitcase off the back seat and closed the door before Sebastian took off, leaving a trail of smoke in the air. 

He couldn’t say he was sorry to see the man go. Spending a day and a half with Sebastian Hanniker was enough to last him a fortnight. 

Taking his time, Alexander prowled the street, looking up at the elegant houses with the glowing lights in the windows and wondering about the technology behind that lighting. 

Excitement built in the pit of his stomach as he saw the numbers on the outside of a three-level townhouse. The entrance doors were almost as big as the ones to Sinclaiar’s castle and each level was surrounded by wrought iron railings. 

Greenery draped along one side of the house and Alexander caught the fresh fragrance of flowers, though he couldn’t identify the scent. He moved closer in for a better look and winced. 

The unfamiliar denim trousers Sebastian had given him to wear chafed his legs and were damned uncomfortable. The shirt wasn’t so bad, but he would have rather been wearing his own clothing when he first met Mrs. O’Hara. After all, a gentleman should be attired in his finest when meeting a lady for the first time. 

As Alexander looked up, he caught a glimpse of a window where snowy white curtains hung. A faint light glowed in the background, and through the glass he could see a small woman with her hair drawn up on top of her head. Even from this distance, he could tell she was crying. The graceful curve of her neck was turned to one side, and her shoulders shook with each sob. 

He frowned. Though considered somewhat of a rake in his time, he’d always been one to comfort those women who’d experienced a sorrow in their lives. Even now his protective instincts kicked in and as the woman turned fully to face the window, his breath caught in his throat. 

Carla hadn’t mentioned her sister’s beauty. Perhaps it would have been wise for her to do so. Alexander could face a beautiful woman with his usual charm intact under ordinary circumstances, but he was a stranger to this century. That one tiny detail in itself was enough to shake a man in his boots. Were he wearing boots. 

Alexander continued to stare up at the window, watching the dark-haired goddess bathe her face with water and wipe it on a dark-colored towel. Suddenly, without 

warning, his cock jumped to life. Nice to know the time jump hadn’t interfered with that. 

His confidence renewed and with a jaunty step, he marched up the driveway and rapped on the solid wooden door. 

Tapping sounded against the floors as Diane O’Hara made her way to the door. Alexander held his breath in anticipation, waiting for that moment when he’d see her face to face. 

Several clicks later, large, blue-green eyes peered at him from a small crack. “Yes?” 

Alexander couldn’t find his voice right away. With the backdrop of the light, her skin glowed like snow in the moonlight. Her waist was so narrow he could span it with his hands but her breasts were full and lush, ripe. His cock reminded him he’d better 

take his mind off the things he’d like to do with the lady’s bosom. 

“Who are you?” This time, Diane’s voice was sharper, warier. 

“Forgive me, Madam. I did not mean to stare.” Alexander took a step back so as to put her at ease. He certainly hadn’t wanted to frighten her. 

She pushed the door open a little further, giving Alexander a view of the weariness in her red-rimmed eyes and the set of her shoulders. Her hands twisted a small towel. “Look, if you’re selling something, I’m not interested and if my father sent you, you can go to hell. Now, with that out of the way, who are you and what are you doing here?” 

Alexander’s lips twitched. He’d been prepared for this type of greeting. Carla had already warned him, although he wasn’t quite sure why Diane’s father would be sending a man to her front door. How peculiar. 

He gave her a reassuring smiled and dropped his gaze, surprised to see her tiny toenails covered in some type of scarlet paint. For a brief moment, he was fascinated but Diane cleared her throat and snapped him out of his awe instantly. 

”Ms. O’Hara, I’d like to talk to you if I may. I can assure you I wasn’t sent by your father and I’m not here to entice you to buy any baubles.” What was it with this century which made people think someone at the door was selling merchandise? 

She tipped her head to one side in a manner that reminded Alexander of her sister. “Do I know you?” 

He glanced over her shoulder to see into the house, catching a glimpse of cream-colored upholstery, wooden floors that gleamed and windows that reached from ceiling to floor. A picture of luxury, the house didn’t seem to fit the woman standing at the front door. Perhaps it was the unhappiness in her eyes but Alexander got the distinct feeling that Diane O’Hara didn’t want to be right where she was. 

“I asked if I know you.” Diane’s voice had risen a notch. 

Alexander kept his smile firmly in place as he responded. “Not exactly, but if you would just allow me to talk to you, I have some information that you need.” 

She folded her arms underneath her breasts, and Alexander couldn’t help but notice the way her nipples pressed against the soft fabric of her dress. “I’m listening.” 

Such a strange custom. In his time, visitors were ordinarily invited into the home and announced. “Perhaps you’d like your husband to join us.” He winced over the word. 

Her eyes narrowed. “My husband is dead, and if you knew me, you’d know that. So good night.” She started to shut the door, causing Alexander to blurt out. 

“Your sister sent me.” Damnation! He hadn’t wanted to tell her in this manner. Such an explosion of words was bound to give the woman the vapors, especially if she did remember Carla. 

The blood drained from her face, and gripping the handle of the door, she swung it wide again. “Is this some kind of sick joke?” 

Alexander dug in the back pocket of the unfamiliar jeans to procure the note Carla had written with painstaking thought. He’d taken it out of the poetry book earlier, 

fighting his own curiosity to read it. But he would never betray Carla’s trust in such a manner. 

“You have my deepest condolences on the loss of your husband.” When no emotion flickered in her eyes, he extended the piece of paper to her. “You might want to sit down before you read this. It’s going to be a bit difficult to understand.” 

Diane’s eyes fell to the note, but she didn’t open the door any wider. “How do you know I have a sister? I didn’t even realize I had a sister until recently.” She twisted a lock of hair around her index finger. “How could you know her?” 

So Carla had been right, after all. The Fates could be a confusing lot, but this time, they’d answered a prayer. Alexander continued to hold out the note. “I can assure you, Ms. O’Hara, that I mean you no harm. Just read this. While I am not certain what it contains, I know Carla wanted to assure you that she is alive and well, thriving actually.” 

Diane’s eyes filled with tears and one tracked down her cheek, causing Alexander’s breath to catch in his throat. The glint of moisture on her face made his fingers itch to remove it. 

“Please don’t come any closer.” Her voice was barely above a whisper as her hand ventured out into the warm air to snatch the note. She readjusted the crack in the door opening before her gaze dropped to the folded piece of paper. “This handwriting…it’s so familiar.” Running her fingers over the script, she stood there for a long moment before she unfolded the parchment. 

Alexander watched her face as she read the note. A combination of pain and happiness gathered there while tears ran in rivulets down her cheeks. One hand lifted to her graceful throat as she scanned the words over and over. 

Then, lifting her eyes, she looked at him. “So you’re Alexander Heath then?” 

He inclined his head slightly. “I am.” 

“Maybe you’d better come in after all.” She opened the door and stepped aside. “Although, I warn you, I do know how to defend myself.” 

Alexander didn’t doubt that for one moment. The lady looked feisty in spite of the weariness he saw in her eyes. “I will heed your words of caution, m’lady, although, I will tell you it pains me greatly for you to even consider that I might be a scoundrel. I can assure you I come from the highest breeding.” Though he had been called a scoundrel in his world, she certainly didn’t require that knowledge. 

Diane looked over her shoulder to watch him. “I’m sure you do.” 

He wasn’t sure if that was sarcasm he heard in her voice. “I am sure the note has caught you unawares. Perhaps it is best if we sit?” 

She walked ahead of him into a large, airy room with more windows and a mantel which looked familiar—almost as if had been taken straight out of Sinclair’s castle. Before Alexander could finish his perusal of the room, Diane was speaking. 

“You were right when you said I’d find this difficult to understand.” She waved a hand toward a large settee covered in a soft yellow linen of some sort. “Please sit down.” 

She took a seat opposite him in a leather chair which leaned back with her weight. Alexander couldn’t resist staring. 

Diane’s words brought his eyes to her face. “My sister says that she is well.” Her hand shook a little as it clutched the note. “It’s strange how that matters to me when I’m just now starting to remember her.” Her breath was a shaky as her hands. “She says she’s met someone.” 

“My cousin, Sinclair, the Duke of Heath.” As he responded, Alexander’s gaze searched the room, inspecting the strange gadgets with great interest. The black box squatting in the corner with its glass front captured his attention for a long moment. Excitement coursed through his veins. He was really in the twenty-first century. 

Diane shook her head. “I don’t have much knowledge of her. Is she happy living there…in the 1800s? If she lived here, which I suppose she did, would she not miss the technology? I don’t know if she was happy here.” 

Alexander sensed more tears were on the way. “Perhaps if you met my cousin, you would understand how your sister has found happiness.” He leaned forward, his hands dropping between his thighs. “Your surroundings do not matter when your heart has found a home.” 

Something flashed in Diane’s eyes but she ducked her head before he could discern the emotion. “I’ll have to take your word on that one. She’s going to stay then?” 

“That was her decision, yes.” 

“So what is the point of remembering her if I’ll never see her again?” 

Alexander had no answers for her. “I can only imagine she knew your memories would surface one day. This was her way of reassuring you.” 

Diane tucked a stray lock of shiny black hair behind her ear and Alexander wondered if it was as soft as it looked. “And you agreed to come here just to give me this message?” 

“I wanted to come…more than anything, actually.” Especially now. “I’ve always been fascinated with the thought of technology and while, I know it will be a difficult undertaking, I could not let this opportunity pass me by.” 

Diane’s mouth worked. “You might be a little out of your element.” 

He frowned. “I’m not familiar with this element but I can assure you I am quite adaptable.” 

Her lips turned upwards into a small smile. “With language like that, you’re going to fit right in.” 

Alexander tried not to be affronted, though Sebastian’s comments still rang in his head like a clattering bell. “You do not like my manner of speaking?” 

Diane waved her hand. “Never mind. You’re telling me that Carla sent you back only because she knew I’d be worried about her?” 

“She was also worried about your father.” 

Diane ran her hands down the front of her dress, and Alexander couldn’t help but notice the way the silky material glided over her thighs. “My father? I’d be surprised if anyone was worried about my father.” 

“The soothsayer told her that a man in her life had died…someone she knew in this world. Carla was very concerned it might have been your father.” 

Diane gave him a bitter smile. “Our father is fine. Your soothsayer was correct, though. I’ve already mentioned to you that my husband is dead. That must have been the man. Sam was killed in a car accident a few months ago.” 

Alexander rubbed his chin with the palm of his hand. He hadn’t expected the shift in the time line. “Your sister has only been in our time period for three fortnights.” He’d have to get her to explain exactly what a car accident was when his head wasn’t spinning. 

“How long is that?” Her brow furrowed. “Six weeks?” She waved a hand. “Never mind. I don’t imagine it’s important.” 

“Again, my condolences on the tragic loss of your husband.” 

He couldn’t miss the look of pain which filled Diane’s pretty eyes or the way she abruptly changed the subject. 

“It just seems so unfair. I’ve just now started to remember her and now I find out that I’ll never really know her.” She choked on the words. 

Alexander’s instinct was to comfort her. “She has found love in 1811, Mrs. O’Hara. I do not believe you would deny her the happiness she has found there.” 

Diane crumpled the sheet of paper in her hand and then, as if realizing her mistake, straightened the note, smoothing out the wrinkles. “I’m just glad she’s found some measure of peace. God knows she never would have found it here.” A sigh escaped her full pink lips. “Perhaps this is for the best.” 

“She did not want you to be unhappy, Mrs. O’Hara.” 

“It’s a little too late for that.” 

The grief over her husband’s death must still be strong to cause such a response. “I apologize. I should not be speaking of happiness when you have suffered such a loss.” Pushing herself to her feet, Diane walked toward the nearest window and pulled back a thick burgundy drape. “My husband’s death wasn’t a great loss to me.” 

Chapter Two 

As shock registered on the face of her visitor, Diane studied him, wondering what it was about him which would make this sister she barely knew trust him so implicitly. Or maybe it wasn’t trust as much as it was a desperate need to pass along the message of her well-being. Either way, Diane couldn’t help but survey the messenger. 

He was an extremely tall man, well past six feet and with deep set blue eyes and wavy blond hair, he bore the movie star good looks which always signaled trouble. Diane identified the type easily and yet, she still felt this instant attraction to him which irritated her. 

Sam O’Hara had had the same type of picturesque good looks, a nasty reminder that the outside packaging didn’t always hide a beautiful center. So the last thing she was interested in was another pretty boy, regardless of his good manners, sexy demeanor and eyes to die for. Oh, and his voice. She couldn’t forget the British accent which reminded her of Sean Connery in the old James Bond movies. 

“Mrs. O’Hara?” 

Diane blinked to find the man sitting on the edge of the sofa, staring at her with concern etched on his face. She cleared her throat to hide her embarrassment. “I’m sorry. I drifted there for a moment.” At his blank look, she amended. “My thoughts wandered. I don’t think I need to tell you that all of this has come as a shock.” She expelled a breath.” 

“Why would you say your husband’s death was not a great loss? I find that strange to hear coming from a wife.” 

“I shouldn’t have said that. Anyway, it’s not your concern.” Giving an abrupt laugh, she turned away from the window, allowing the curtain to drop back into place. “This is all so surreal. I could be talking to myself for all I know. You could be a figment of my imagination. I guess that would mean my mother has been right all these years. I am crazy.” 

Alexander stood and the sheer breadth of his shoulders seemed to dominate the room. “I do not think you are crazy, m’lady. I think the knowledge of Carla’s life in another century would be difficult for anyone to accept. But you have handled it quite admirably.” His lips curved into a charming smile. “I cannot imagine who could accept it any better.” 

“Thank you.” Diane’s heart began a quick pitter-patter against her chest. Good Lord, the man’s smile was lethal. She wondered what he’d been like in his time. Was he a cad who loved the women and left them wanting more? Or had he been a true gentleman who courted his lady to woo her heart? His lady? 

Her head snapped up. “Oh my God! I just realized you left your entire life behind. How could you leave your family and friends? I can’t even imagine what your cousin thinks of me! I’m the only reason you’re here—the reason he’ll never see you again.” 

The smile broadened. “Actually, Sinclair and I never really spent much time together. We had differences of opinions, shall we say, when it came to the subject of love. But in the end, we parted on the best of terms. He understood my reasons for wanting to leave.” 

“What about your parents? Your sisters, brothers? Won’t they miss you?” As soon as the words escaped her lips, Diane shuddered. “Or won’t they even remember you?” 

The question seemed to take him aback and for a long moment he fell silent. As their eyes locked across the distance of the room, a spark leapt into the air, almost visible—a tangible attraction. 

When he finally spoke, Alexander’s voice was low and deep. “No. They will not remember me but this was not a decision I made lightly. I am here because I wanted to be here. It was the best thing for me. In fact, when I thought Carla was returning, I asked her to take me with her.” 

“Carla thought about returning?” Diane felt a lump form in her throat. 

Alexander lowered his head for a brief moment before lifting it to fix her with glittering blue eyes. “She was torn between her love for you and her love for Sinclair. In 

the end, I believed she knew you’d understand. That is why I offered to bring you the note. Your sister wanted you to know she’d found contentment and more in my time than she’d ever found here.” His deep voice rumbled and Diane’s hand began to shake. What was it about this man that unsettled her? 

“Now that isn’t difficult to believe at all. I don’t need to imagine Carla’s misery here.” Especially if it was anything like my life. “I need a glass of water. I’ll be right back.” Actually, what she needed was to get away from him—to regroup. And pray he hadn’t seen the way her nipples were now standing erect. That she could go from miserable to attracted in a manner of minutes spoke of the man’s magnetism…or her lack of control. 

Alexander looked puzzled as he stood, his eyes searching the room. “Do you not have a maid who can retrieve it for you? Where is your pull bell? I shall summon your lady-in-waiting for you.” 

Diane gave an abrupt laugh and the sound managed to restore her equilibrium. “A maid? No, I don’t have a maid.” Though Sam had always wanted one, Diane had resisted and won on that one issue. Now that she knew the truth about Sam’s ways, she was glad she’d stuck to her guns. Another woman in the house would have only given Sam more opportunities to cheat. 

His brow knotted even more. “So you have no servants then?” 

Oh, yeah, he was definitely out of his world. She shook her head slowly. “No, Alexander, I don’t have servants. So as I said, I’ll be right back. Can I bring you a glass as well?” 

Alexander looked decidedly uncomfortable. “I would not ask a lady to wait on me, Mrs. O’Hara. In my century, women are to be cherished, especially those of a higher station. Is this not the way of things here?” His shoulders stiffened and before Diane could reply, he added, “I am not altogether certain I will appreciate the difference in this time if your answer is no.” 

And just like that, Diane knew she was in trouble. Not because she felt threatened by those broad shoulders and large hands, but more because with those few words, Alexander had caused her pussy to tingle. 

And it hadn’t tingled in a very long time. 

She sighed when she noticed Alexander was still expecting an answer, his hands clamped on his hips in an imperious manner which told her he was accustomed to being obeyed. “Things are a lot different in this century.” 

“That I am starting to notice. Perhaps you could tell me more about this century of yours. After you have sufficiently recovered from the shock of my news, of course.” 

Diane’s lips wobbled. She’d never had a man worry about her needs. Sam had only been concerned with moving forward, improving his own lot in life. She sized up her visitor and decided this was a man well worth getting to know. 

“I really do appreciate your willingness to bring this information to me. It’s good to know that Carla has found happiness at least.” She forgot all about the glass of water as she gazed toward the window. “I just wish I could have been there to see it.” Her 

breath shuddered out of her lungs. “I wish I could remember more about her.” 

Alexander tipped his head to one side. “She told me a lot about you.” 

“Did she tell you she was unhappy here?” 

“No, but unless I am mistaken, her sister is.” 

She squared her shoulders. The last thing she wanted or would take was pity. “Life 

isn’t all about happiness, Mr. Heath. Sometimes, it’s about making sacrifices.” 

He nodded. “At the expense of your own contentment, I would presume.” 

Her temper started to climb, but deep down inside it wasn’t so much anger at Alexander as it was the truth behind his words. “Don’t presume to know anything about me. You know nothing about my life.” 

He walked toward her and Diane’s breath caught in her throat. He really was as tall up close as he was from a distance and the width of his chest obliterated her view beyond his massive frame. 

“Forgive me, m’lady. It was never my intention to upset you.” He bowed low at the waist and the courtly gesture caused a stirring in Diane’s heart. “I feel the need to take my leave from you if you do not require my assistance.” 

He was leaving? The thought almost panicked her, although she couldn’t explain why. Perhaps it was because this stranger was the last remaining link to her sister. Yes, that was it, she convinced herself. “Are you returning to your time?” 

“No. I chose to come here. The door to my world is closed now.” He began to back his way toward the door. 

“So where will you go? What will you do?” 

“I will spend the evening in a …hotel.” He seemed to stumble over the words. “Beyond that, I have not thought what I shall do next.” His teeth flashed in a smile. “My only thought was arriving safely and making sure you received the correspondence from your sister. Now that my mission is complete,” he swept his arms wide, “I have an entire world to explore.” 

She stared at him. Did he really think he could just head out into the streets and “explore” without getting hurt or into trouble? He wasn’t knowledgeable about the ways of this century. “There are criminals out there, Mr. Heath.” 

“I would presume you are talking about the vagabonds and ruffians who run amok in my century. I can assure you I am quite handy with a sword and can take care of myself.” 

Diane hated to be the one to remind him, but… “You don’t have a sword, Mr. Heath.” 

He looked down at his right hip, momentarily nonplussed. “Well, right you are. Never mind then. I have engaged in fisticuffs more than once in my time and am well able to defend myself.” 

“Well, you can’t just roam the streets; it isn’t safe here no matter how good a fighter you are. Criminals here carry guns and they aren’t afraid to use them.” 

Alexander’s brow furrowed. “Why are you concerned for my safety? Do the women here not understand that a man is quite capable of defending his household and protecting his own life as well?” 

Diane snorted which made Alexander blink in surprise. This was going nowhere. She blew her hair out of her eyes and considered him with a long look. He looked harmless enough and with his Old World charm and boyish good looks, he looked like he could be trusted. Maybe. 

Before she could reconsider her offer, Diane blurted. “Look, I have a spare bedroom. You’re welcome to stay here until…well…until you figure out what you’re going to do.” 

Alexander’s smile reached his eyes. “Stay here? With you?” 

“Yes. My children are out of town at present,” she added with a desperate tinge to her voice. “So I don’t ordinarily live here alone. I mean, I’m not really alone. I have 

neighbors and I can protect myself.” 

“Yes, you did mention that.” 

Was he teasing her? She couldn’t tell although those sensual lips were curved into another smile. Her hands settled over her abdomen in an attempt to quell the butterflies. “Anyway, I have two guest rooms so you can take your pick. Just go up those stairs and.“ she broke off, “never mind. I’d better show you.” Her breath escaped in a wistful sigh. “Maybe, if you’re not too tired, you could tell me more about the century in which Carla now lives…your century.” 

If he continued to smile at her like that, she wouldn’t be responsible for her actions. At the present, her legs had a mind of their own and were itching to wrap themselves around his lean waist. 

“I would only be too happy to tell you about my world, m’lady.” 

Oh, yeah, and he had to stop calling her that. The way he said it made the butterflies do the tango in her stomach. “Thank you.” Did her voice squeak? 

“Are you sure my boarding would not be an imposition?” 

Diane led the way toward the stairs, needing to take her eyes off the quarterback-sized shoulders and muscled chest. “Not at all. It would be good to have a man around the house.” She whipped a horrified gaze over her shoulder. “Not that I’m implying anything, of course. I just meant that the children miss their father. Not that I’m expecting you to fill in that role. They didn’t really know their father all that well so it’s more like they miss what a father is supposed to be. But I certainly don’t expect anything from you. I know you knew my sister, and I guess that makes it a little easier for you to fit in with my family, but I certainly don’t think that you would want to walk into my life and pick up where my husband left off. Besides that, as I said, my kids aren’t here. They’re with their grandparents.” 

Her face suffused with color and she stopped talking, standing on the bottom stair step, fidgeting uncertainly with the banister. “Please forgive me, Mr. Heath. I don’t normally babble like this.” She couldn’t even look at him. 

Alexander joined her on the bottom step. “There is no need to apologize, Mrs. O’Hara and my name is Alexander, but if you prefer to shorten it I would not be offended. Your sister mentioned that you had a habit of calling her Carl. While it is a strange substitution of her Christian name, I would not mind if you chose to call me Alex. I think fitting into your world is going to be a difficult task, and I would appreciate all the help you can give me. I know you did not mean anything untoward by your offer. Please do not think I would take advantage of your kindness.” He bowed low again and lifted a hand toward the top of the stairs. “Lead the way, m’lady.” 

Her face still flushed from embarrassment, Diane took the stairs, wondering if those were his eyes she felt on her ass. Or maybe it was hope she felt. * * * * * 

Alexander strolled around the bedchamber, fascination making him scrutinize it from inch to inch. The light switch held him enthralled for several minutes as he flipped it up and down. But the square box setting atop the dresser drew him even more. It resembled the same box downstairs only quite a bit smaller. He placed his hand against the glass, but nothing happened. His palm smacked the top. Still nothing. 

Diane cleared her throat from the doorway and he spun around. “It’s a television,” she informed him, coming forward to pick up a small black gadget with several buttons on top. And when she pressed one of the buttons, the glass came to life. 

Alexander stared, leaning closer to touch the glass. “What is happening?” 

Another click of the button and the screen went blank. “You have a lot to learn, Alexander, and unfortunately, I don’t know if I’m the right woman to teach you.” 

He watched her for a long moment before he spoke. “I could not imagine a better woman to teach me, Diane.” He liked saying her name, the way it rolled off his tongue. “I assure you I’m a quick learner and will attempt not to cause you undue hardship.” He liked the way she nibbled on her lower lip even more. His cock stirred to life and pressed against the front flap of the uncomfortable jeans he wore but he didn’t blame it. How could his body resist such a beauty? 

Her face flushed and she twisted her hands in front of her. Her nervousness only heightened his excitement. “I’m not sure.” 

“I believe you did say you could use a man around the house.” He flashed her one of his most enticing grins and saw her breasts rise and fall in a sigh. Her nipples were taut, pressing against the thin material of her blouse which dipped low over the top of those bountiful globes. His mouth went dry as desire settled within the pit of his stomach. 

He wanted her. The thought shouldn’t have surprised her. He’d always been a man who enjoyed frolicking with the ladies but for some reason, this was different. He wanted more than just to dally with her. 

“Well, I…I only meant that I…meant,” she broke off, confusion clouding those vivid blue-green eyes. She exhaled loudly. “I’m not quite sure what I meant.” 

“Diane.” His voice dipped an octave as he poured on the charm. “If you will teach me about life here, I will do everything within my power to remove the pain I see in your eyes.” And to teach you everything your other lovers have failed to teach. He kept those words to himself, but it was a promise he made silently. 

She backed toward the door, her hands held up in a defensive manner. “I don’t know what you’re talking about. I’m not in pain. I’m…I’m just under a lot of pressure. I’m raising two kids alone. My parents are no help and apparently, I’ve lost the only sister I never really knew I had. It’s a lot to go through.” 

He inclined his head, hearing the desperation in her voice. He’d frightened her and that hadn’t been his intention. Perhaps he should have asked Carla to explain more about the women in this century, most importantly, her sister. But there hadn’t been time. So now, he would simply have to make do. He’d always been good at improvisation. 

Another grin winged its way toward her. He placed his hands behind his back and rocked forward on the toes of his shoes. “You might not be able to see your sister, Diane, but you haven’t lost her. She is happy in another century, just as you will learn how to be happy in this one.” 

She clamped her hands on her hips, temper flashing. “What makes you think I’m not happy? Why do you think you know so much about me?” 

“Because I recognize pain, Diane.” His shoulders lifted in a shrug. “But I will not push the matter if you prefer not to discuss it. I only want to help.” He followed her to the bedroom door. “Will you allow me to help you?” His knuckles grazed her cheek and she shivered, her eyes luminous in her face. She licked her lips and Alexander’s cock responded with a painful upsurge. 

Diane’s back slammed against the wall closest to the door. “Why should I?” 

“Because I’m here and I’m asking.” 

“I don’t know if I should. You…you’re different.” 

“I hope so.” His lips twitched. Just the touch of her skin made his bollocks draw tight. 

“I’ve never met a man like you before.” 

Tension filtered into the room, coating the air with its thickness. “And you never 

will again,” Alexander responded with a wink. 

“I can’t promise anything, but I’ll do what I can to help you, just to make sure you fit in here. It’s the least I can do for bringing me the message from my sister.” 

Alexander didn’t want her gratitude but it would have to do for now. He had another plan in mind and as his cousin could testify, Alexander always got his woman. 

“’Twas my pleasure, I can assure you.” His eyes swept the room, taking in even more unfamiliar territory, but he didn’t see one thing in particular—one thing which was of utmost importance. Brow wrinkling, he glanced over his shoulder, acutely uncomfortable. 

In his time, one didn’t discuss certain things in the presence of ladies and while 

some considered him a rake, he did adhere to some measure of decorum. 

He cleared his throat. “Diane, there seems to be something missing.” 

She came to stand beside her. “What’s missing? I have some extra pillows in my 

room if need them.” 

Damnation. The woman couldn’t be kind enough to guess. Didn’t they use chamber pots in this century? He felt the heat rushing to his face. “The…uh…necessary pot.” He flashed his eyes toward her and then quickly looked away. 

The scrunched up look on Diane’s face told him quite clearly she wasn’t following him. 

He tried again. “In my time, we require the use of—“ Breaking off, he lowered his gaze before finally ending his sentence in an irritated voice—“chamber pots.” 

“Ohhhhhhh!” Diane’s recognition only made things slightly easier. “Well, we don’t use those here.” 

His head popped up. “Then what in the name of God do you use?” 

She snagged hold of his hand, her fingers tightening around his in a firm grasp. He liked the feel of her soft skin against his as she led him across the carpeted floor and into a smaller room. 

Egads! What were all these contraptions? Gleaming white, a bowl of some sort was positioned next to the far wall while a glass enclosure occupied the opposite. Strange silver knobs were attached to a taller white structure, and when Diane walked over to it and turned one of the knobs, he heard the rush of water. 

His heart began to race, and he squatted down to see where the water was coming from. 

Diane giggled, and Alexander stood up so fast he bumped his head. “I’m sorry.” She clapped one hand over her mouth. “This is a sink. It’s where our water comes from.” 

“A sink? And where is your pump?” He rubbed the sore spot on the back of his head. 

She shook her head. “There is no pump.” 

“A well?” 

“No well, either. We have city water.” 

Blast it all! It seemed Carla left out some very important details and Sebastian hadn’t been much help, either. He resolved to give the fellow a stern talking-to when next they met. 

“And this,” Diane led him toward the odd-looking bowl, “is the toilet.” 

One eyebrow lifted as Alexander stared down into the placid water. “And what exactly does this toilet do?” 

This time, it was Diane’s turn to flush and as the redness crept up over her cheeks, Alexander took note with a grim look. 

“Are you telling me this is the chamber pot?” The words were practically shouted, echoing against the polished walls. 

She nodded. “It’s a different kind of chamber pot. When you…um…go, you flush it. Like this.” She pushed a silver lever and rushing water filled the bowl. 

Alexander jumped back, staring in surprise. “What is that noise?” 

“That’s the flush. It makes the water go out of the bowl.” 

“And where does it go?” 

“The water?” 

Was that amusement he heard in Diane’s voice? He swore if he could have one more conversation with Carla, he’d have a few choice words to say to her as well. Didn’t she think this important knowledge to mention either to him or, at the very least, in her note to Sebastian? “Yes, the blasted water. Where does it go?” 

Diane turned and walked out of the room, leaving him no choice but to follow her. “It goes into the sewer.” As he opened his mouth to speak, she turned and held up one hand. “Look. I’m not going to be able to explain everything in one day. Just trust me on this one. That’s where you ‘go’ when you need the chamber pot.” 

Alexander noticed more redness on her cheeks so he decided to let the matter drop. Perhaps this toilet would be a good deal easier to use than the pots in his time. With all this gadgetry, he was sure he got the better end of the bargain since Carla had chosen to stay behind in 1811. 

“Is there anything else you need?” Diane’s soft voice interrupted his musings. 

“Perhaps a smile?” he asked in his most charming voice. 

Her lips tilted upwards. “I get the feeling you were a very charming man in your time, Alexander.” 

He bowed graciously. “I can assure you my charm was not left behind.” 

The panicked look on her face wasn’t his imagination nor was her quick scurry from the bedroom. 

Apparently, Diane O’Hara was quite easily frightened. He would certainly have to see about changing that. After all, he couldn’t have a woman getting the vapors when she was around him. 

He had a reputation to uphold, even in the twenty-first century. 

* * * * * 

Monday morning 

“Good morning, Diane,” Alexander greeted her as she reached the kitchen and he couldn’t help but admire how deliciously rumpled she looked in her robe with her hair falling down around her shoulders. He’d seen a few women with their hair down, but none who looked so delectable. 

Diane stopped short and stared at Alexander for a long moment…long enough to make his cock spring to life. Did the woman have any idea how good she looked in the morning. 

“Good morning.” 

Alexander couldn’t be mistaking the brittleness of her tone. The lady looked much like his Aunt Hazel had when her corset was too tight. “Are you ill?” 

Diane cleared her throat. “I didn’t hear you get up this morning.” 

He didn’t miss the way she ignored his question. “I’ve always been an early riser. No need lying abed when there is work to be done.” 

Her brows drew together forming a slight groove between her eyes. He found it most enchanting. “What work do you have to do?” 

Momentarily taken aback, he blinked at her. This was a definite first for him. Being a titled gentlemen, there were peasants to visit with his mother, farmers to assist and ladies to woo. He’d never spent a day doing absolutely nothing but he distinctly remembered Sebastian telling him to “lay low”. 

“Alexander?” The flap of her robe was slightly open, giving Alexander a delectable view of her white nightgown. It fell to just above her knees and made his mouth water. Her hand smacked the table and brought his gaze up to her face. 

“Yes, m’lady?” 

“I’ve called your name twice.” 

“My apologies.” He coughed and wondered if she knew her robe had gapped open even further. He certainly wasn’t about to tell her. Not when his eyes could feast on the plumpness of her full breasts pushing up against the cotton material. 

“So what work do you have to do?” 

Diane moved to the tall, white box which Sebastian had identified as a refrigerator. What an odd-sounding name and when Alexander had opened the door and felt the cold blast of air, he hadn’t been able to resist sticking his face inside. He would have remained there for a lot longer had he not heard Diane coming down the stairs. 

Diane thumped a jug of milk on the table just as a strange bell chimed throughout the house. “Is that the call bell?” Without response, Diane walked out of the kitchen, mumbling under her breath. * * * * * 

Oh, this couldn’t be good. Any time a person opened their front door and found Sebastian Hanniker standing on the other side, it wasn’t going to be a good day. But especially not on a Monday morning. 

Diane clamped her hands on her hips and stared at the man through her front door screen. “Sebastian, what are you doing here?” 

His chin jutted forward in a defensive motion. “I came to see Alexander.” 

Her eyes narrowed. She smelled a rat. “You know Alexander?” Suspicion crept into her voice. Had this all been some kind of ruse, some ploy on Sebastian’s part? 

She’d never trusted the creepy little man and for the life of her, she couldn’t remember how she knew him. He certainly didn’t travel in the same circles as her family but she did remember the first day she’d met him. He’d been sitting outside her townhouse with a forlorn look on his face. Thinking him homeless, she’d offered him money but he’d smacked her hand away, gotten to his feet and stalked off in a huff. 

Ever since then, she’d seen him trolling the neighborhood but never quite approaching her house. It was as if he was looking for something…or someone. 

“Hey!” Sebastian snapped his fingers in front of her face. “I was talking to you and you zoned out. I said I know Alexander. He banged on my front door Saturday with a note from Carla. I missed a damned football game helping him.” 

All of the oxygen stalled in her lungs. “You knew Carla?” 

Sebastian stared at her as if she’d fallen off the deep end. “What the fuck? Of course, I knew Carla.” He straightened his shirt as if what he was about to say next was of the utmost importance. “She was the closest thing I had to a sister.” 

Diane refused to unlock the door but her hand gripped knob tightly. “So what did 

the note say?” The word still sounded stranger to her ears. 

“That’s between me and Carla. Now, you going to let me see him or not?” 

“Alexander,” she called over her shoulder. “You have a visitor.” She wasn’t surprised to see the tall blond-haired man standing right behind her. “Do you always eavesdrop on other’s conversations?” 

“I heard the concern in your voice, Diane. I could not remain behind while a stranger accosted you. Now, if you will excuse me, I shall speak with Mr. Hanniker outside.” He reached around her and tried the handle on the door. 

“You have to unlock it first.” Diane’s hand closed over top of his, and she knew in an instant that was a bad move. Sparks of electricity shot from her palm to her shoulder. 

Alexander turned his head ever so slightly and the deep blue of his eyes pinned her face. “Thank you.” 

Her breath trapped in her throat as the lock slid downward. She managed a nod and stepped away, holding her hand against her stomach as if it had been burned. 

Sebastian hitched up his pants and took a step backwards. “It’s about damned time. I don’t have all day, you know. I have plenty of things I have to be doing and I’m only here because of Carla.” 

“Yes, I believe you have mentioned that once or twice,” came Alexander’s dry response. As the two men walked toward the opposite end of the porch, out of her line of vision, she strained to hear their conversation to no avail. Damn. What in the hell was Alexander doing with Sebastian Hanniker? And why did it matter so much that she find out? * * * * * “Never have cared for that woman,” Sebastian grumbled, cramming one hand into the pocket of his brown breeches. “Really? I’ve found her to be quite charming.” 

“Why don’t that surprise me?” He removed his hand and held out a wad of the same type of money he’d given Alexander the previous day. Only this time, it was wrapped tightly together and secured with a strange kind of rubber. 

“Well, are you going to take it or not? This is it. All I could come up with on such short notice, so I’m telling you spend it wisely. I don’t have any more regardless of how much I owe Carla.” His bony foot kicked a brown leather bag next to a chair made of basket weave. “I’ve put you some more clothes in there along with your papers.” 

“My papers?” Alexander couldn’t be more confused. 

“Jesus.” Sebastian swept a hand through his oiled hair. “I had my buddy work through the night. He got your identification card and social security card. He said he’d talk to his friend down on the crew. So wait until Wednesday and go to this address.” 

He shoved a card into Alexander’s hand. “Talk to a guy named Bradley something. They’ll put you straight to work…unless you fuck it up.” 

Alexander was still staring at the card with the numbers lined in a row. “These cards are items I require to live in this century?” 

“Jesus, it’s like dealing with a fucking child! If they weren’t, you think I would have gone through so much trouble to get you one, genius?” 

“What is this trouble you speak of?” 

Sebastian scratched his head. “I had to pay my friend for the stuff, but—“he held up one hand. “No one’s going to know because he stole the numbers off some guy who’s been dead for quite some time. You should be safe with them.” 

“Your friend is a common thief?” Alexander was dismayed at the thought. 

“Nothing common about him. The guy is damned good. You might want to read some of the stuff I put in there, too. It’ll bring you up to speed.” Sebastian hesitated and then added, “You’ll be able to see what’s going on. There’s newspapers and magazines, 

and well, hell, just look. You can read, can’t you?” 

Now, Alexander was affronted. “I am quite literate.” 

Sebastian’s thin face screwed into a disgusted look. “And you’ve got to learn how to talk. I mean, the accent’s fine, but Christ, if you keep saying things like you’ve been saying, you’re in for some real trouble.” Bony fingers scratched his head again. “So what are you doing here anyway? I went to the hotel up the street and they said you never checked in.” 

“Mrs. O’Hara has graciously allowed me to stay here…at least for now.” 

The thin man’s shoulders hunched and an obnoxious snort made Alexander recoil. What was it about the man that disgusted him so? Perhaps it was the clear lack of hygiene or just his actions. Either way, Alexander didn’t like him. 

“Great. That’s just perfect. She’s a pretty piece, that one. If she wasn’t such a bitch, I probably would have made a move myself after her husband kicked off.” 

Blood beginning to boil, Alexander took a step forward. “I know you are not referring to Mrs. O’Hara in a derogatory manner.” 

His Adam’s apple bobbing, Sebastian swallowed. “Hell, no!” He pointed a bony finger at the center of Alexander’s chest. “And see, that’s the kind of shit you need to learn. You can’t just go around bullying people or taking their words the wrong way. Oh, fuck it. I’m outta here.” He started down the steps, turned and looked back up at Alexander. “I put my phone number in the bag, too, but don’t call unless it’s an absolute emergency and getting lost ain’t a damned emergency. From here on in, you’re on your own.” 

A Sebastian walked away, Alexander figured that would be the last time he saw the chap. So he called out, “Thank you.” 

Sebastian hesitated on his way to the battered white car which looked even more disreputable in the light of day. “Just remember what I said. Keep your ass out of trouble. You don’t understand our ways here, Englishman, so you’d better take the time to learn ‘em before you open your mouth.” 

Inclining his head in recognition of the man’s words, Alexander lifted a hand in a silent wave. 

As a loud splutter sounded from the car, the screen door thumped against the frame. “Alexander?” 

The softness of Diane’s voice warmed him but it shouldn’t. He was new to this place, this society, and the last thing he should be thinking about was a woman. Granted, a lush, beautiful woman but he had enough to occupy his time. 

She called his name again, and this time, he responded. “I’m here.” 

“What did Sebastian want?” 

The early morning breeze caught the scent of her hair and Alexander inhaled deeply, dragging the freshness of roses into his lungs. “Carla asked him to assist me upon my arrival. Not the friendliest chap but I believe he did as your sister asked.” He indicated the suitcase with a jut of his chin. “He brought that.” 

Diane stared at it for a long moment. “Leave it out here until we open it. I don’t trust Sebastian.” 

Alexander’s brow furrowed. “What do you think he might do?” 

Her nose wrinkled. “With Sebastian Hanniker, there’s no telling.” Her robe swished around her ankles as she retreated to the door. “Look, I have to run some errands. Yesterday was a wasted day for me. So…” she lifted one hand… “you’re welcome to stay here and watch tv or something. Just make yourself at home.” 

The way she said the words made it sound like this was his home. A ludicrous thought. “Do you not wish for me to accompany you?” 

She whirled around, pinning him with an almost desperate look. “No!” 

He didn’t like the quick way she’d responded. Was she ashamed to be seen with him? Now that was the ludicrous thought. “May I ask why? In my time, a lady does not go out unaccompanied.” 

“Here’s a news flash for you, Mr. Heath. You’re not in Kansas anymore.” She hurried away before Alexander could ask her what the hell she meant. * * * * * She could feel him right behind her. His warm breath bathed the back of her neck, making her nipples draw tight. “Alexander, what are you doing?” “Trying to understand why you do not wish for me to accompany you.” 

How could she explain his presence were someone to see him in the car? What if they told her mother? Good God, she’d never get out from under Sandra Morgan’s shadow. 

“Well…um…it might be difficult if someone were to…“ She broke off, realizing Alexander was already walking toward the door. “What are you doing?” 

“A gentleman doesn’t not allow a lady to ride alone.” 

Perfect. “I’ve been riding alone for a long time, Alexander.” 

He paused long enough to peruse her over his shoulder. “Then your husband was a fool.” 

His words created a warm feeling in the pit of her stomach along with even racier thoughts. A lump formed in her throat, and for the life of her, she couldn’t formulate a response. 

And then it was too late. Alexander had already left the house and was halfway to her car. 

“Dammit. God, please don’t let anyone notice Alexander.” Even as she said the prayer, she knew it was a futile request. Any woman with half a brain would notice the muscular man who’d now scrunched himself into her small car. 

“Odds are good this isn’t going to be a good day.” * * * * * Alexander held onto the safety bar, his jaw set in a hard line as the car rolled across the gravel. Diane couldn’t help but smile. Apparently, macho men existed in other centuries as well. She doubted Alexander would admit that he was scared shitless, but when she drove onto the paved road and accelerated, she heard his breath leave his body in a loud explosion of air. “Ye gads, does everyone drive this fast? First the cab driver then Sebastian and now you!” His head bounced against the roof of the car as they hit a particularly bumpy spot in the road. Diane’s lips curved into a smile. “We’re only going thirty-five miles an hour, Alex. You might want to try to erase the horror from your face.” He swept her a hard look. “’Tis not horror you are seeing, but rather incredulity. Horses and carriages do not travel at such speeds.” He fell silent for a moment before adding, “And the smile on your face leads me to believe that you are enjoying my discomfort.” 

She chuckled. “Not enjoying it, but it’s rather like training a large child.” 

Alexander folded his arms across his chest. “I think you are testing me, my lady.” 

“Never,” she responded with a wry grin, patting his knee. “But it is interesting to see the world through someone else’s eyes, fresh eyes.” 

“My eyes aren’t the only things that are fresh.” The low rumble of his voice, the words barely above a whisper, caused heat to splash her cheeks. 

“I think we’re heading into territory which can get your face slapped, maybe not in your world, but definitely in mine.” 

A long pause followed before Alexander finally responded with a grimace. “You 

are wrong.” 

“About what?” 

“My thoughts would get my face slapped in my world as well were I to voice them 

aloud.” 

Chapter Three 

“Diane! Yoohooo!” The shrill sound of Betty McNabe’s voice caused Diane to wince. Standing in the line at the delicatessen, she’d prayed no one in her mother’s social circle would see her. Apparently, her spirituality needed some work. 

Betty barreled forward like a charging rhino. There was no escape. 

Pasting a sickly smile on her face, Diane paused to greet the woman. “Betty, it’s nice to see you again. You’re looking well.” If the billowy black skirt and skin-tight silver shirt which enhanced her rolls could be considered well. The catty thought almost made Diane’s smile real. 

Betty came to a stop and tapped one finger against her cheek. “Who is that absolutely delicious man sitting in your car?” With a conspiratorial wink, she leaned forward. “When I passed by the window, it was hard for me to take my eyes off of him. He looks scrumptious.” She licked her lips to emphasize the point. 

Diane barely resisted the urge to roll her eyes but the last thing she wanted to do was piss off the one woman who would go running back to her mother. Not that Betty wouldn’t do it anyway. As president of the Manhattan Flower Society and wife to one of the richest men in the city, Betty traveled in the highest of social circles, intimidating those less fortunate than she even though she’d come from the wrong side of the tracks herself. She seemed to have forgotten that part of her past the minute she’d married Harry McCabe. But she’d gotten much more than just a wedding ring. She’d become the official chief executive officer of Manhattan’s gossipmongers club. 

“So? Are you going to answer me or am I suppose to draw my own conclusions?” Diane gritted her teeth. Betty was good at drawing those conclusions but she’d just have to think what she would. There was no way she was feeding information to this woman, especially when Sandra Morgan was vice-president of the Manhattan Flower Society. “He’s a friend.” 

“Ah.” The sound carried a wealth of meaning. “As in a ‘friend’?” The added air quotes annoyed Diane further. “With benefits?” 

“As in a friend. It’s that simple-no hidden meaning.” Was she being too emphatic? “Now, if you will excuse me, I really must be going.” She needed to get out of here far more than she needed bread. 

“Does your friend have a name?” 

Diane knew she’d never be able to shut Betty up or get around her girth unless she offered up some small token of information. “His name is Alex Heath and he’s visiting from England.” 

“England?” Betty’s voice went up a notch. “Oh, I’ve always had a thing for Englishmen. They have such charming accents.” She fanned her face with one hand. “Is he going to stay awhile? What does he do?” 

“Do?” Diane looked at her blankly while her mind raced for a response. She had no idea what Alexander did. Had he even worked in his century? 

“Yes, do. I’m thinking my husband and I could use some help with pool.” Bushy eyebrows waggled. “If you know what I mean.” 

Okay, enough was enough. Diane’s temper was reaching the boiling point. “I don’t really follow his career, Betty. He lives in England.” 

“And you don’t know that much about him, huh?” Betty was practically drooling. “I’m thinking you’re not so much friends as…” She stopped, waggling her eyebrows suggestively. 

“We haven’t known each other that long.” Things were just going from bad to worse. 

Betty turned slightly and looked over her shoulder through the glass door. “My, my, my. Could God have been any nicer to that man?” 

Enough was enough. “Well, as I said, I really have to—“ She broke off at the sound of Betty’s squeal. 

“Ooooh! How absolutely luscious!” 

Diane turned around with a sick feeling in the pit of her stomach. 

Dear God. Alexander had gotten out of the car and was now stretching like a muscular mountain lion. His bronzed flesh gleamed in the brightness of the sunlight, and the snug-fitting jeans enhanced the leanness of his hips. No wonder Betty McNabe was drooling. 

Without saying another word, Diane practically sped out of the deli, positioning her body directly in front of Betty’s line of vision. “What do you think you’re doing?” 

Alexander paused in mid-stretch. “I believe it’s called a stretch, my lady.” 

“Will you get back in the car?” Her voice was a deadly whisper. People were staring, or more accurately, women were staring. Not that she could blame them. With his Nordic good looks and Greek God type of body, Alexander would make a blind woman take notice. 

His hands dropped to his sides. “Is stretching not allowed here?” 

She shoved his shoulder. “Just get back in the car. I’ll explain it on the way home. On the way to my home, I mean.” When he didn’t budge, she thumped him. “I said get 

back in the damned car.” 

One eyebrow lifted in amusement. “What vexes you so much?” 

With a low huff of breath, Diane stormed around the front of the car. “Forget it. Stand here and draw a crowd for all I care. I have things to do.” Please God, let him get in the car. She breathed out a sigh of relief when Alexander slid into the passenger seat and tugged the door closed. 

“What has you so riled?” 

Gritting her teeth, Diane turned the key in the ignition. “I’m not riled,” she finally responded. “Betty saw you.” 

“Who is this Betty and why should it worry you that she saw me?” 

“Because she’ll ask questions and she’s in the flower society with my mother.” 

Alexander’s brows beetled which told her he wasn’t following, but at the present, Diane didn’t care. Let him figure it out for himself. Right now, she was having a hard time keeping her eyes on the road and off the tight bulge between his legs. 

* * * * * Alexander studied Diane as she inserted the key in the lock of her front door and made muttering noises below her breath. But when she bounced her shoulder against 

the hard wood, he interfered. 

“May I?” He held out his hand for the key and with a snort, Diane handed it over. 

The door opened easily and for some reason, Alexander knew that had displeased Diane even more. 

“Great. Thanks.” Dropping her bag to the table just inside, she tromped toward the kitchen. “Now that we’ve dealt with the fiasco of your being seen by half of the society ladies in Manhattan, you’re going to stay here while I finish my errands. And for God’s sake, stay inside.” 

Alexander followed her around the kitchen, admiring the way the black breeches she wore clung to her buttocks. He could grow to like this manner of dress on a woman. “I cannot remain indoors, Diane. These houses are too small, confining almost.” 

She stopped and swung around with a horrified look on her face. “You can’t leave, 

Alexander! My neighbors will see you!” 

“And did they not see me come in with you then?” 

Her jaw went slack. “Okay, you have a point there but I don’t want them to see you 

coming and going. They’ll think I have a…a… man here.” 

Alexander felt the laughter bubbling in his chest. “But I am a man.” 

With a most unladylike sound, Diane turned her back on him and yanked open a cabinet door. “If you have to go out, please promise me you’ll use the back door and just go out into the garden. I have a privacy fence and no one will see you out there.” Alexander braced one hip against the counter while Diane poured what was left of the coffee into a strange type of receptacle. “What is it you fear most about your neighbors seeing me, Diane?” 

Her shoulders stiffened. “Will you just…stop, please. This is…” She stopped and shook her head. “I can’t believe the sister I barely knew sent you into the future.” Though she muttered the words below her breath, Alexander heard them anyway. 

“We were not discussing Carla, Diane.” He pushed himself off the counter and approached her. 

Her face flushed and a lock of dark hair fell next to her ear. “Wh-what are you doing?” 

Keeping his movements gentle, he brushed one hand down her arm. “Sweet Diane. Do you have any idea how beautiful you are?” 

Her teeth nibbled on her lower lip. “I-we really shouldn’t be having this conversation. I mean, it’s 10:30 in the morning and I haven’t gotten anything done.” She tried to move around him but he stood fast. 

Those dangerously sexy eyes of hers widened. “Alexander, I need to go.” 

“Then it seems we have a stalemate because I need to kiss you.” One hand cupped the back of her neck and he waited for any resistance. But Diane’s eyelids were already drifting lower in silent acceptance. 

He moved in closer, sliding his palm alongside of her cheek. His thumb feathered against her bottom lip and he groaned inwardly. Desire shot straight to his cock and it surged upward almost painfully. 

Her hair felt like silk against his fingertips. He fisted one hand in those dark strands and took a step closer to her, pressing the lower half of his body against hers. Could she feel what she did to him? 

Her breaths came in short pants but she wasn’t making any moves to push him away. She wanted this as much as he did. He could see the need in her eyes, the craving. 

His head dropped lower and he kissed her once. Just a light caress but it was enough to make his heart thunder in his chest. He went back for seconds and this time, Alexander knew he was in trouble. Honey, cinnamon and some kind of sweet fruit rolled across his tongue as it caressed hers. His cock hardened to a painful root between his legs and with her sigh of pleasure came the swift knowledge he had to have this woman. 

Her plump breasts filled his hands and he kneaded the skin softly. “By all that’s holy, Diane, you intoxicate me.” 

His words seemed to spur her into action because suddenly, she was pushing against his shoulder, dislodging his seeking lips. “No…stop! I…I can’t do this.” She backed toward the door, stumbling in her haste to leave. “I have to go.” 

Alexander didn’t move. “I did not mean to frighten you, Diane.” 

“You didn’t. I’m not frightened. I’m not frightened at all.” Yet, she turned and sped out of the kitchen. 

“Egads, women in this century are a difficult lot.” In his time, Alexander only had to crook his finger to receive the attentions of any wench he wanted. Mayhap that was 

the problem. Diane wasn’t a wench. 

She was a woman. Hot-blooded. Beautiful and available. 

And he wanted her with a ferocity that amazed and even scared him a little. 

* * * * * “Hello? Diane?” Alexander heard the voice one moment too late as he walked out of the 

bedchamber Diane had assigned him. He ran chest first into a small blonde woman with a pinched face and bright red lips. 

“Who in the hell are you?” The imperious tone of voice made his hackles rise. 

“I’m a guest. Who are you?” 

“Sandra Morgan. I’m Diane’s mother and I…” She broke off, her gaze dropping. “Oh my God! You’re naked!” 

As if just realizing that fact himself, Alexander’s gaze dropped. “Forgive me, my lady. I was preparing to bathe.” 

Bright red flooded her cheeks and Sandra Morgan danced backwards so quickly she stumbled. Alexander’s hand snaked out and caught hold of her wrist. He yanked her forward, bringing her right hip into contact with his flaccid cock. 

The woman shrieked. “Put that thing away!” 

That thing? Her words amused him. Certainly she’d seen ‘that thing’ before. “That was my intention before you arrived. Would you like me to give Diane a message for you?” 

Hands clamped onto hips covered by a dress which came down to her ankles, much as in his day, Mrs. Morgan glared up into his face. “A message? Oh, no, Mr whoever-you-are. There is no message. I can promise you I’ll see my daughter long before you will again. I’ll give her any ‘message’ I want her to have.” 

Alexander thought at that moment he’d never seen such a harridan. “Then I shall take my leave of you. Good day, my lady.” Bowing in a courtly fashion despite his nudity, he then straightened and disappeared into the bedchamber, closing the door in 

the woman’s gaping face. 

“Ill-mannered jackass!” 

The words seeped through the door and Alexander frowned. Could such a woman truly be Diane’s mother? Perhaps that ‘twas the reason Diane was so frightened as a grown woman. 

He heard the front door slam shut and strolled to the window overlooking the grounds. A shiny silver car pulled away from the edge of the street and he managed to catch a glimpse of Sandra Morgan with one of those tiny black boxes pressed to her ear. 

This didn’t bode well for Diane at all. 

* * * * * “You have a man in your house!” Sandra shrieked into the phone. Diane groaned out loud. Couldn’t Alexander follow one simple rule and stay in the 

house? She’d only known the man a few hours and already he was making her life more difficult. “Mother, what are you talking about and please stop screaming.” She decided playing dumb was the best defense at present. 

“I went to your house and I saw him. He was…was…naked!” The last word came out on yet another shout. 

Perking up, Diane’s lips begin to curve into a smile. “He was naked?” She resisted the urge to ask her mother if the package was as impressive as the jeans hinted. 

“Yes, and that…that…thing was well…you know.” 

Quite large? Diane didn’t think her mother would appreciate that question either but she couldn’t keep the thought from racing through her mind any more than she could keep from salivating. “What were you doing at my house? And how did you get in?” Surely, Alexander didn’t open the door naked but then again, he didn’t appear to be a man who was ashamed of his…attributes. 

“Don’t you try to change the subject, young lady. Now, I demand to know right this instant who that man is and why you have a strange man in your house! Do you even think about the fact that you have neighbors? Is that the man Betty McNabe saw you with this morning?” 

And the gossip struck again. Not that Diane was surprised at all. In fact, she could only imagine the skid marks Betty’s shoes had left on the pavement outside Sandra’s condo. 

Temples beginning to throb, Diane hitched her purse strap over her shoulder and pushed the cart out of the grocery store. “I can see Betty didn’t waste any time, did she?” 

“Don’t take that tone with me. She was concerned. You said he was a friend from England.” Sandra’s voice dripped ice. “I wasn’t aware you had any friends…from England.” 

The deliberate pause wasn’t lost on Diane. Her mother was right, though. She didn’t really have any friends. Oh, there was Marsha two townhouses over, but she’d recently gotten married and they hadn’t talked much since. Not that they had a lot in common now. Marsha was deliriously happy. 

“Diane!” 

The shout brought her back to the phone conversation. “I’m sorry, Mother, but your phone is breaking up. Maybe you should call me back when you get home or better yet, when I’m home later on this evening. We can talk then. Okay?” 

Diane cut her mother off in mid-splutter and dropped the cell phone into her purse, cursing with each step she took to her car. 

“Why can’t that man follow a simple directive?” 

* * * * * Alexander was gone. That was the first thing Diane noticed when she entered her house later that 

afternoon. The next was a neatly scrawled message which he’d left for her on the back of an envelope telling her he’d gone out for a look around and he would return soon. 

“Shit.” He was off somewhere wandering around Manhattan without any way to get in touch with her. Why did that thought bother her so much? As she put away the groceries, she grumbled about men and their oblivious attitudes. Apparently, men hadn’t been made any better in the eighteenth century, either. 

Head throbbing, she sought refuge in a couple of aspirin. She shouldn’t be worried about him. After all, she barely knew him. It was just gratitude. It had to be. That was a perfectly good explanation for her concern over his safety. 

Well, that and her need to see what her mother had already seen. How unfair was it that Sandra Morgan had gotten the first look? Then Diane shivered. But she would get the first touch. She was sure of that. 

Dropping down onto the sofa, she tucked her legs beneath her and gave in to the need for a quick nap. 

Until feather-soft kisses woke her. 

She opened her eyes and fell into swirling pools of blue. “Alex?” The sleepy murmur brought a smile to his face. “What time is it?” The room had taken on the soft glow of dusk, telling her she’d slept the afternoon away while dreaming of Alex. The memory made her blush. 

His hand caressed her cheek, pushing her hair away from her face. “Is the time important?” He was staring at her in such a hungry way that her panties grew damp. 

“Umm…” She couldn’t think. Why in the hell couldn’t she think? Maybe because his thumb was now stroking her bottom lip. 

“I want to kiss you again, Diane.” 

The seductive words had her melting. She knew she should move, should jump up and run. Men like Alexander weren’t her type. Then she didn’t really know her type. But she’d made a vow not to get entangled with a man again. She had to protect her children. 

“Diane?” The whisper slid over her skin like a satin sheet. 

One hand lifted to touch his shoulder. “Alex, I don’t think you should.” 

“Why not?” 

How could he ask her questions when her brain was frozen? Didn’t he know that? She licked her lips and tasted the saltiness his thumb had left behind. “Because you don’t know how long you’re going to be here and I’m not looking for an affair.” 

There. She’d said it. Maybe that would make him back off. But he wasn’t backing off. In fact, he was moving in closer, until his lips were a breath away from hers. Had he even heard her explanation? 

“Do you not want me to kiss you then?” 

That English accent was killing her. “Yes.” Where had that come from? 

A smile played over his lips. “Good.” 

Her lashes fluttered and heat spiraled low in the pit of her stomach. He didn’t touch her and yet, her body burned with a raging fever. Waiting. Waiting. Until his lips finally touched hers and she felt the sweet bliss of his kiss. 

His tongue lightly traced the outline of her lips, teasing her until she squirmed on the sofa. Lips moved across her cheekbones, her brow, her eyes before finally returning to her lips. 

Diane was awash in the pleasure, wanting to feel his hands on her breasts, her thighs, everywhere. But he only touched her with his lips and that alone was driving her wild. 

Her mouth parted, wanting to taste his tongue. He accepted the invitation and she moaned low in her throat, lifting her hips off the sofa. 

“Diane, I want to make love to you.” 

He couldn’t have broken the moment any quicker if he’d thrown cold water in her face. She shoved against his shoulders so hard that he fell back, his ass bumping the rug. 

“Diane?” 

She was on her feet, rushing toward the stairs. “I can’t do this. I told you I couldn’t do this.” One hand was on the banister when he called her name again. 

“Tell me what’s wrong.” He sounded so close but she didn’t turn around to find out. 

“Nothing. Nothing’s wrong except that I’m just not the type of woman you’re looking for. I don’t need a man. In fact, I don’t want another man in my life. My children and I are perfectly happy and…” her voice broke. Good God! She was close to tears. She had to get away, to find the sanctuary of her room before she broke down in front of him. What in the hell was the matter with her? 

“So what do you need then?” The softness of her voice proved to be her undoing and without even realizing her next move, she turned and found herself in his arms. Her head was pillowed against his shoulder and his strong hands were stroking her back offering comfort. 

Tears leaked from her eyes, streaming down her cheeks as fast as he could wipe them away with his thumb. “God, you’ve got me crying.” A laugh turned into a sob. 

“Perhaps this is what you needed then.” 

He continued to soothe her with words of reassurance until the sobs quieted and he could tip her face to his. “Are you unhappy because you miss your husband, Diane?” 

She stared up at him. “You haven’t been listening to me, obviously.” Sniffing, she pulled out of his arms. “I don’t even know why I’m crying. I don’t usually.” 

“Crying is good for the soul.” 

Did such a man really exist? So compassionate, charming and so damned sexy. “I think I just need some time to regroup.” 

“You do not need to be alone, my lady. In my time, when a lady cries, a gentleman comforts her. Please allow me to do that for you.” He paused and his next words caused her heart to slam against her breast bone. “I will take care of you, Diane.” 

What was he talking about? He couldn’t take care of her. Could he? And would she even want a man to take care of her? The thought sounded so tempting after the years she’d spent with Sam, being a nursemaid, housekeeper and financial consultant. 

In fact, the idea sounded positively intoxicating. 

* * * * * 

He followed her up the stairs, intrigued beyond measure. Knowing he was invading her privacy didn’t stop him from watching her through the narrowing opening. 

She stood at her dresser, her hair now swept up into an untidy bun, her hands adjusting the different colored bottles atop a circle of glass. 

And he knew he’d never seen a more beautiful woman. 

Unable to resist, he pushed open the door and called her name. 

She spun, the back of her hand knocking over several of the bottles. “Damn.” Fumbling, she tried to right them until Alexander covered her hands with his. 

He brought her hand to his lips and kissed each knuckle individually, feeling her slight shudder. “Forgive me, my lady, but I find you absolutely irresistible.” Another kiss made her shiver and another had her arms going around his neck as their lips united. 

Her moist, hungry lips sucked at his, driving him mad with the need to consume her. The little breaths she took and the sounds she made caused his cock to throb. Small hands fisted in his hair and he thought he’d die with the pure pleasure of tasting her. 

But he wanted more. Much more. 

“You are so beautiful,” he whispered against her cheek. 

She stiffened in his arms. “Don’t say that.” 

He pulled back to see her face. “Why? It is the truth.” 

Dropping her arms to her sides, she stepped out of his embrace. “That’s the kind of thing most men say in order to convince a woman to sleep with him.” 

A tiny spark of anger ignited, creating an inferno in the pit of his stomach. “I can assure you, Diane, that I’ve never had to convince a woman to spend the evening with me…ever.” 

A bell rang throughout the house, halting Diane’s response. Smoothing her hair away from her face with shaking hands, she looked toward the bedroom door. “That’s the doorbell. Someone’s at the door.” 

“Shall I see who your visitor is?” The moment he made the suggestion, he saw her eyes widen. 

“No!” One hand slid over the wall of his chest. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to snap. It could be my mother.” 

What was this hold Sandra Morgan had over her daughter? How could she frighten such a spirited lady like Diane? “I forgive you, my lady. Now, I do believe your guest is growing impatient.” 

As she walked away, his eyes feasted on luscious curves. Would he run mad before he had a taste of what lay beneath the strange clothing? Imagination would serve no useful purpose this time. Surely his mind could never capture such beautiful landscape. 

Upraised voices dragged him out of his reverie and two quick strides brought him out of the kitchen. One more had him at Diane’s side where she stood facing a short man with more head than hair. The overhead light gleamed off his bald pate. 

“Diane, is something amiss?” One hand settled at the base of her spine while his eyes took in her visitor. Though the chap didn’t look threatening, Diane didn’t seem to like him. For that reason alone, Alexander didn’t like him. 

She tipped her head back to give him a weary smile. “Alexander, this is Jed Harris. He’s an associate with Harris and Becker, attorneys at law.” 

“A solicitor?” Though Diane knew the man, Alexander didn’t trust him any further. “I heard the volume of your conversation and was concerned.” 

“Mr. Harris was just delivering a message. That’s all.” Though she said the words in a calm voice, Alexander read beneath them to Diane’s turbulent thoughts. He fixed cold eyes on Mr. Jed Harris. “So if the message has been delivered, there is no need for further conversation then.” He cupped her elbow. “Come.” 

Jed Harris bristled, though it did little for his stature. “Diane and I were having a discussion, Mr. Heath. I assume that is who you are. In fact, you are the reason I’m here. So it would be best if you left us to finish our conversation.” 

Alexander had never taken kindly to being dismissed and he wasn’t about to start now. “Why don’t we allow Mrs. O’Hara to decide that for herself?” He returned his arm to her waist and flexed his fingers against the softness of her shirt, offering reassurance. 

Diane looked pale, as if at any moment she would faint dead away. The thought made Alexander take another step closer to her. 

”I was sent by Mr. and Mrs. Morgan, Mr. Heath. Diane can explain everything to you at a later time…if she so desires.” 

Diane turned away from the man, her fingers curling against Alexander’s shirt. “Let’s just go back inside. There’s nothing more I need to discuss with Mr. Harris.” 

”We are not finished, Diane.” 

Alexander ushered her further inside before he took one step toward Jed Harris, causing the man’s head to fall backwards to make up for the difference in their height. 

With heavy jowls and beady black eyes, he reminded Alexander of the hunting dogs he’d left behind in England. And Alexander caught the stench of sweat in the air. 

“I believe you heard the lady, Mr. Harris.” 

Lips curling into a sneer, the solicitor looked Alexander up and down in a derogatory manner. “Now is the time to tell me who this guy really is, Diane. I can talk to your parents, reason with them, but I need to know the truth.” 

“My relationship with Diane is of no concern to you, my good man. Now, you should be on your way before the eve becomes most unpleasant for you.” He wanted to sink his fist into Harris’ fleshy face, to feel the connection of knuckle against bone. But he doubted it was what Diane wanted. Nevertheless, it didn’t stop the desire. 

Harris jabbed a thumb at the center of Alexander’s chest. “You really don’t want this man to interfere, do you, Diane?” There was no mistaking the subtle threat in his voice. 

Alexander lost all patience and taking another step forward, lifted the man by his collar and carried him toward the steps. 

“Hey! Put me down.” 

“That I shall. Once you are firmly away from the door.” With barely a ripple of muscle, Alexander deposited him in an ungainly heap at the bottom of the steps. “And you would do well to reconsider any thought of returning to Mrs. O’Hara’s house.” 

Harris scrambled to his feet and glared up into Alexander’s face. “Who in the hell are you to talk to me that way? You might be her lover but trust me when I tell you that I can make life most unpleasant for her.” He tried to sidestep around Alexander but found his path barred. 

“I know you would not be so brutish as to threaten a lady, would you, Mr. Harris? Especially not in the presence of a gentleman who could trounce you thoroughly.” He stood like a sentry guarding his post, daring the man to attempt passage. Hoping. His hands clenched into fists while the blood pumped through his veins like a runaway stallion. 

Jed Harris brushed his hands down the front of his snowy-white shirt and began to back away. “Diane, I’ll call you tomorrow.” 

“Don’t.” Alexander snapped out the word. 

“But—“ 

“I believe you heard me, Mr. Harris. If you bother Mrs. O’Hara again, I may have to take more drastic measures to protect her.” 

The warning wasn’t lost on the man and he quickly turned tail and scuttled away, ducking into a long black car with gleaming windows. Alexander watched until red lights gleamed in the night. 

Then he turned and saw Diane standing in the doorway, the dim light of the kitchen playing over her soft face. “Thank you.” The wind carried her words to him on a whisper. 

He began to walk slowly towards her. “That should not have happened.” His jaw ached from the clench of his teeth. And on his honor, it would never happen again. 

With a sad smile, Diane slid her hand down his arm once he reached her. “Sometimes, you have no control over what happens in your life, Alex.” 

Full lips tempted him, urging him to resume what they’d started earlier but now was not the time. He saw the need for comfort in Diane’s eyes. Perhaps later they could resume the pleasantries. 

For now, he would give her what she needed. 

“Tell me why Mr. Harris was here.” 

She let out a breath of air and massaged the back of her neck. “Why? There’s nothing you can do about it.” As she tried to walk away, Alexander captured her arm. “Tell me because I want to know, Diane. I want to help you.” Her lower lip wobbled. “My parents have finally decided they’re going to sue me for custody of my children.” * * * * * Diane didn’t resist when Alexander took her in his arms. In truth, it had been a long time since she’d given all of her cares and worries to a man, rested her head on his shoulder and pretended her problems didn’t exist. Oh, she knew they’d still exist come tomorrow morning but for tonight, she could escape into a fantasy world Alexander had created. His warm hands stroked her spine as they sat together on the sofa. With only one lamp lit, the room had an intimate feel, made stronger by the closeness of their bodies. 

The heat of his chest combined with the steady beat of his heart beneath her ear reassured her. 

She didn’t know how much longer Alexander would be with them but she was glad he was here. For however long that might be. 

“They will not win, Diane. Though I’ve never seen you with your children, I can only imagine you are a wonderful mother. Your sweet spirit shows in your eyes and when you speak of them, your voice is soft with love. Surely, no court would keep such a mother away from her children.” 

“Thank you,” she whispered as though almost afraid to break the silence. 

He kissed the top of her head as someone who’d grown accustomed to holding her in his arms would. “You do not have to thank me. This was what you needed.” 

“But you would be surprised at how many men would have realized that.” 

“Then do not put me in competition with these other men.” 

That was an impossibility. She’d met no other man like Alexander, strong yet tender, kind yet commanding. Handsome, charming and witty. Those were all once traits she’d considered damning to a man but now she could consider the possibility they could all exist in one man. Without that same man being an asshole. 

“I’m glad you’re here.” The words startled her and for a brief moment, she tried to draw out of his arms but Alexander only tightened his embrace. 

“I was just thinking the same thing myself, my lady.” 

She tipped her head back to see his face. “Why do you do that?” 

A blank look was the only response she received. 

“Call me my lady, I mean. You don’t know if I’m actually a lady or not.” 

His brows lowered. “You are a lady, Diane, and in my world,” his eyes took on a faraway look as if he could actually see the beautiful lands of his home country, “females are considered ladies unless they’ve shown themselves to be otherwise.” Palm cupping her cheek, he smiled down into her upturned face. “You could never prove any differently to me.” 

Was that softness she felt somewhere in the region of her chest her heart melting? How could that be possible? She’d known this man barely twenty-four hours and yet there was a connection. Was this something Carla had known would happen? Had she sent Alexander here for this purpose? 

Diane lowered her head and smiled into the cotton fabric of his shirt. The scent added its own level of security. Woodsy and masculine. Raw earthy male. “Alex?” 

“Hmm?” He sounded sleepy. 

Maybe she shouldn’t ask but every nerve in her body had begun to tingle. Her own desires pushed her to say what was on her mind. “Would you kiss me again?” 

His eyes popped open and he tipped her chin up to see her face. “If you are sure that is what you want, my lady.” 

Her breath escaped on a sigh. “It is.” 

“Then far be it from me to ever deny the wishes of a lady.” His lips descended, settled over hers in a soft, exquisite kiss which captured her soul. 

The night brought its own sounds with the distant chirp of the crickets and faraway noise of the late evening traffic. But locked in Alexander’s embrace, Diane tuned them all out. She only wanted to hear the steady cadence of his heartbeat, their soft breaths mingling in between gentle kisses and the hum of his approval as his hands caressed her curves. 

Heat shot from her abdomen straight to her pussy, filling her with a pleasure so deep, it almost scared her. He touched her everywhere, running his hands up and down the length of her spine, then over her hips before returning to cup her face. 

She shifted in his embrace, turning to face him more fully. Their breath mingled in the air, hot and moist. Senses on high alert, Diane adjusted her legs in an attempt to ease the ache between her thighs but it was hopeless. 

His tongue tantalized the corners of her mouth, enticing her lips to part. And the kiss deepened, carrying her away into a world of breathless excitement and feverish response. There was no fighting the response to him. Every nerve ending in her body sizzled and she was heady with desire. 

Somehow his hand had managed to find its way to her breast without her knowledge but the flick of his thumb against her nipple made her fully aware. He pinched the tip through the material of her blouse and the thin cup of her bra. 

Moisture coated her panties as her temperature spiked. With one kiss the man erased all of her inhibitions and stirred desires within her she thought long dead. 

She heard him whisper her name or maybe it was her imagination. Either way, the sound sent delicious shivers up and down her spine. When Alexander moved seeking lips to the side of her neck, a moan of pure bliss broke free from her own lips. 

Nipples peaking against her cotton shirt, she arched her back, basking in the heat of his embrace. Her brain couldn’t even fathom the last time she’d felt this way so suddenly. But God, she loved this feeling-this wanton desire to tear Alex’s clothes from his body and feast on every glistening inch of his skin. 

Alexander moved so suddenly, it caught her unawares. “Wh-what are you doing?” She blinked up at him looming over her. The lamplight caught each blond strand of his hair and seemed to make it glow. 

“Shhh,” he instructed in a voice husky with desire. “Just lie back and close your eyes.” 

Her mouth went dry. “Why?” Those seductive blue eyes burned down at her face. 

“Because I want you to relax, to enjoy every minute of what I’m about to give you.” 

God, she could come just from those words alone. “Alex, I’m not sure—“ 

“Shhh. Just close your eyes, Diane.” The tip of his index finger traced a line from her clavicle to the deep vee of her blouse. “Forget about everything and everyone. Concentrate on the moment, on what you feel.” 

Diane’s eyelids drifted closed and she released a heartfelt sigh as her muscles began to undulate beneath his ministrations. Everywhere he touched burned her skin, but the wicked combination of massage and silky strokes of his palms created an inferno in the pit of her stomach. 

“Take your breeches off.” 

The command caused her eyes to fly open and she found him kneeling on the floor, his eyes glued to her face. “Th-they’re called jeans.” 

His fingers tickled her chin. “Whatever they’re called, Diane, take them off.” 

She didn’t think about denying his request. She was sizzling from the inside out and even the damp patch on her silk panties didn’t embarrass her as she tossed her jeans to the floor. 

“You’re wet for me.” The husky timbre of his voice lulled her, but when he traced the crease of her pussy with one finger, Diane’s muscles tensed. 

She forgot all about how long it had been or her last memories of such glorious feelings and gave herself to the moment. It didn’t matter how long she’d known him. Her hips lifted when his hands sought the waistband of her panties and a shiver of excitement coursed through her. 

Lying naked before him, her bare ass pressed against the soft cushions, she felt decadent, wild and hot. 

“You’re so beautiful.” His words triggered another rush of liquid which his hand was there to capture. “So soft.” He leaned down and kissed her bikini line and she jerked. “Relax. I just want to taste you. Give yourself to the moment.” 

Dear God. Diane knew any moment she would implode. Her thighs quivered and her heart rapped impatiently against her breastbone while Alex breathed against her pussy. The heat of his breath combined with the tension of the moment made her squirm. 

When would she feel his tongue? How long would he make her wait? She wasn’t sure she could stand the anticipation of his wet tongue gliding between the petals of her pussy. 

His thumbs parted the lips and Diane released a pent-up moan. He was taking his time, building the intensity of her response. She wanted to compel him to go faster, demand he taste her, drag his tongue across her clit and bring her to a much-needed climax. But she couldn’t find her voice. 

And he seemed to be in no hurry. His cheek nuzzled the inside of her thigh while the cool air bathed her exposed labia. 

Diane’s hands clenched into fists, her lungs clenching with the need for oxygen. “Alex.” 

“Put your right leg on my shoulder.” 

The command surprised her but she did as he commanded immediately, pressing the sole of her foot against the bunched muscles. Moist lips pressed a kiss just above her knee and she bit down on her lower lip. 

His fingers stroked the sensitive skin next to her pussy, tiptoeing ever so lightly across the plump petals nearby. 

“Mmmmmm.” She couldn’t have stopped the sound even if she’d wanted to. The warm pads of his fingers caressing her pussy was making her pant. 

“You like that, do you?” 

The wicked tone made her smile. “You know I like that.” 

“But a man always likes to hear his lady’s pleasure.” While he spoke, his thumb dipped inside the crease of her pussy and began to rub her clit. 

“Oh, God, yes,” she purred, adjusting her hips to widen the gap between her legs. Common sense flew out the window along with any modesty. Time stopped. Everything she wanted or needed was right here. Right now. 

Then Alex’s tongue replaced his thumb and she realized she wanted even more. The craving started in the pit of her stomach and spread outward, warming her limbs. 

Like a cat savoring the last few drops of cream in the bowl, Alex licked her most sensitive areas, wrapped his tongue around her clit and brushed his taste buds over it. 

Diane flung her arms up over her head and grabbed hold of the cushioned arm of the sofa. Never before. She’d never experienced anything like this before. 

The sight of Alex’s blond head between her pale thighs pushed her nipples against her shirt. Though he touched her only with his tongue, she felt his brand everywhere. Her skin tingled from head to toe, the electrical charge centered between her thighs. 

He lifted his head and leaned back, his eyes finding hers, and as she watched those sensual lips curve into a devious smile, she felt his fingers sink deep into her throbbing channel. 

Her lips parted on an explosion of air and she reared up off the couch. “God!” 

As his fingers worked in and out of her juicy pussy, Alex dipped his head again and sucked on her clit, her labia and every inch of moist flesh until Diane was writhing in a pleasure so exquisite it was almost painful. 

The noises he made in the back of his throat only added to the bliss. God, he made eating an art form and was enjoying every minute of it. The muscles of her ass clenched 

and she began to buck against his face. 

“That’s so good. Right there. Yes, that feels so good.” 

His free hand pressed down against her bikini line and a sweet rush of delight spiraled downward from her breasts to her ankles. 

So perfect. She couldn’t find another word to describe the exact moment when she came except…perfect. Her muscles contracted suddenly, driving the air from her lungs. Perspiration drenched her skin and her abdomen clenched. Wave after wave of sheer exhilaration cocooned her, wrapping her in a silken web of flawless ecstasy. 

Her juices flowed over Alex’s tongue and she could still feel him there, lapping up the wetness, lightly teasing her clit until the tingle began anew. Centered deep within the walls of her pussy, the orgasm ripped through her once more, wringing a cry of sheer joy from her lips which ended on a triumphant sob. 

Exhausted and satiated, Diane closed her eyes as the beauty of the moment hummed over her. She couldn’t move a muscle if she wanted to, not even when Alex kissed his way up her stomach. 

“You’re so beautiful,” he whispered against her neck. 

She purred her approval and shifted on the sofa to allow him room to lie beside her. The thickness of his erection pressed against her hip and curiosity made her hand slip low to cup the enticing bulge. 

Alex’s breath hissed out from between clenched teeth and he caught hold of her wrist, bringing it up to rest against his chest. “No, my lady. ‘Tis not the way we shall end this evening.” 

Disappointment caused her lips to form a pout. When was the last time she’d considered convincing a man to take her? “Why?” The whispered word surprised her. 

He pressed a kiss against her cheek and she caught the musky scent of her pussy still lingering on his lips. “I did not give to you because I expected anything in return.” His palm caressed the side of her face. “I gave for the joy of hearing yours.” 

Her body melted. Could any man be this…this…gentle, selfless? “But you want to make love to me.” She needed to hear the words, to know a man found her desirable, sexy, but more than that, she needed to know Alex wanted her. 

His eyes glittered like the ocean with the sun bouncing off its polished surface. “Do you doubt that?” He shook his head before she could respond. “Don’t. Were it the right time, I would take you, Diane, but tonight belongs to you.” 

He brought her hand to his mouth and kissed each knuckle in turn. “Time for bed.” Slipping off the edge of the sofa, he grasped the silk of her panties and began to slide them up her legs. 

Her face flooding with heat, Diane took over. “I’ll do that. You should go to bed yourself. I leave early in the morning but I’ll try not to wake you.” Babbling, she pushed herself to her feet and yanked her jeans up to her waist. “I’ll leave the—“ 

“Diane.” The deep voice stopped her. “You have no need to be embarrassed. What happened was a natural act between a man and a woman he finds extremely beautiful.” He touched his index finger to her lips. “Sweet dreams, my lady.” With a wink, he spun around and walked out of the living room. 

Her mouth agape, Diane stood staring after him. Knees weak and shaky, she propped one hand against the arm of the sofa. If her panties weren’t so damp, she could almost convince herself it had all been a dream. 

But Alex had been there, between her thighs. And she still remembered the sight. 

Sweet dreams, indeed. 

Chapter Four 

Tuesday morning 

Diane hid her embarrassment behind a rush of activity the next morning the second Alex walked into the kitchen. Wearing a pair of black jeans this time with a white collared shirt tucked in at the waist, he looked good enough to eat. 

Apparently so had she the night before. Heat flooded her face, but as she bent over the sink, she couldn’t stop the silly smile from curving her lips. 

She’d dreamed of him last night, his wicked tongue and the warmth of his palms holding her thighs. 

“Good morning, Diane.” 

His deep voice rattled her. Lined with an undercurrent of supreme masculinity, the words were, to her, a taunt, reminding her of the willing participant she’d been the night before. 

Pivoting, Diane fixed a smile on her face. “Good morning. Did you sleep well?” Ever the perfect hostess, she set a plate of eggs and bacon down in front of him.” 

“The best I had in a long time, thank you.” 

Had that anything to do with her? Cheeks still flaming, she backed toward the refrigerator. “Okay, well. Eat up.” The second the words escaped her lips, she felt Alexander’s eyes on her face, but she couldn’t look at him. Not now. 

Spinning around, she presented her back to Alex, but felt his gaze burn through her thin, silk shirt. Was he thinking the same thing she was? 

“Diane?” His voice was so soft and yet so compelling. And a lot closer than the table. He was directly behind her. How could a man so large move so quickly? 

“Yes?” Did her voice really squeak? 

“Perhaps we should talk.” 

Had her ears deceived her? Men never wanted to talk or was that just Alex’s idea of a euphemism? “I…um…well, actually, I have to meet a client later on this afternoon. I 

run an interior decorating business, not that you probably even know what that means but I stay very busy. Extremely busy. I don’t have a lot of time for talking and all of that. Now, I-I have to go change clothes.” Though she was already dressed for the day, she couldn’t think of a better excuse. She just knew she had to get out of that kitchen. 

Before she did something crazy…like snatching Alex from his chair and planting a solid kiss on those sensually-curved lips. Racing up the stairs, her heart keeping time, she knew she was in a world of trouble. She not only wanted Alex in her house, she wanted him in her bed. * * * * * 

Though he knew he shouldn’t, Alexander followed Diane up the stairs anyway. He knew she was running away from him…or perhaps the situation. Was she really so unsure of herself around a man? 

“I owe you an apology.” He kept his voice quiet but Diane jumped anyway. 

“Alex, please.” She bustled around her bedchamber, straightening her bed and fluffing the vividly colored pillows leaning against the headboard. 

The room was decorated with vibrant colors and smelled like fresh rain but it was the woman who captivated him, pulling him in closer. “Why are you so frightened?” 

She stopped all movement and looked at him, the strength of her gaze slamming into him like a punch to the stomach. “I’m not scared. I’m cautious. There’s a 

difference.” 

“Then explain this difference.” 

Turning her back to him, she walked across the room and scooped up a sweater which was draped over a white wicker rocker. “I don’t have time for this. I told you I have to meet a client.” 

She was fluttering about like a bird trying to avoid a circling hawk. From the brief glance she’d given him, he’d seen the panic in her eyes. Yet, she would talk to him. How could he help her if she wouldn’t tell him why she was so scared? 

The very fact that he wanted to help her should have disturbed him. In the past, he tended to stay away from ladies in peril, simply because it required more than what he was willing to give—things like compassion and sensitivity. But this time was different. He didn’t need to search inside himself for the desire to help. 

“Diane. Are you embarrassed because of last night—how you gave yourself so freely to me?” 

Diane lowered her head and he heard the swift intake of her breath before she finally turned around. Twin spots of color blossomed on her cheeks. “Could we not talk about last night?” 

As Alexander opened his mouth to respond when a shrill ring silenced him. 

With an irritated sound, Diane whipped around and snatched a small black gadget from the table beside her bed. 

“What is it, Mother?” 

Alexander leaned in closer, peering at the talking box. 

“Mother. Now isn’t a good time. I’m not sure there ever will be a good time after 

what?” She broke off with a huff of air which blew her soft bangs off her forehead. 

Entranced, Alexander reached out a hand to feel the silkiness. Suddenly, he lost all interest in the box. He was, however, extremely interested in the curve of Diane’s neck 

and the way her eyes sparkled when she was annoyed…or excited. 

“I don’t want to talk about Alex.” 

The moment he heard his name, his gaze shot to Diane’s face, and the flush on her cheeks told him whatever her mother was saying wasn’t pleasant. 

“Mother, I am an adult and it’s none of your business who I have in my house or who I sleep with.” Those spots of color on her cheeks got darker. “I’m not going to discuss this with you! You sent a lawyer to my house and threatened to take away my children! How should I be talking to you?” 

Alexander’s protective instincts surged to the forefront and he snatched the talking box out of her hand. 

“Diane will call you back. As she said, now is not a good time.” Fumbling with the buttons, Alex punched several until the line grew silent. Then he passed the thing back to Diane who stood with mouth agape. 

“Why did you do that?” The words were soft yet deadly. 

“Because your mother was not being kind to you.” 

Her teeth snapped, or maybe it was his imagination. “You cannot fight my battles for me, Alex, especially where my mother is concerned.” She swept past him, her back ramrod straight. “I have to go now and I don’t want to talk about last night, tonight, tomorrow or any other day before I do leave. For now, I’d just like to get in my car and pretend I’m not Diane O’Hara.” 

Alexander pondered her words as she walked out of the bedroom. What was it about such a beautiful, vibrant woman that could make her wish she were someone else? 

And what was going on inside of him that made him want to convince her she wanted to be just exactly who she was? * * * * * 

Diane released a nervous sigh as she climbed the steps to the front door of her townhouse, butterflies dancing in the pit of her stomach. She’d stayed away for most of the day, for once grateful she’d had a meeting to occupy her mind. 

But her thoughts had never been that far from Alex and the wicked, delighteful things he’d done with his tongue. Tonight, they would be alone again. In an empty house. With limitless possibilities. 

Facing the music, she turned the key in the lock and swung the door wide. And came to a sudden stop. 

Alex was doing crunches in the middle of the living room floor. Without his shirt. Dear God. 

A fine sheen of sweat covered his chest and his rock-hard abs clenched with each lift. He didn’t seem to notice her which was a good thing considering she now had to use the wall to hold herself aloft. 

The tight jeans he wore clung to his hips and cupped his crotch like a lover’s hand, presenting an impressive package. Her mouth watered with each rise of his shoulders and the longer she stood there, the damper her panties became. Dear Lord, the man was a picture of perfection. 

“Hello.” 

Alex’s voice cut into her musings and she sucked in a sharp breath, surprised to 

find those beautiful eyes watching her. 

She cleared her throat. “Hello.” 

He straightened and jumped to his feet, stretching his arms over his head. “My apologies, but I was watching this thing you call a television and this exercise looked challenging. I thought I would try my hand at it.” He winked at her. 

Diane’s mouth watered. A moment longer and she was going to fling herself into his arms and beg him to take her. Good God, what was wrong with her? Or maybe there wasn’t anything wrong at all. Maybe all of this was normal and she just simply hadn’t experienced it with Sam. She certainly hadn’t experienced an orgasm anywhere near the one Alex had already given her. 

At the memory of her husband, guilt swamped her and she looked away. “If you’d like to take a shower, I’ll start dinner. I’m sure you must be starving by now. I didn’t think to show you how to use the stove before I left.” 

The second she’d said the word “shower”, she realized she’d made a mistake. Mental images assaulted her. 

She pictured him stroking his cock, rubbing soap over the taut skin and her breath quickened. The heat in the room rose ten degrees and her blouse clung to her skin, suddenly uncomfortable and restricting. 

His hand would curl around his thickness, barely able to circle it if last night was anything to judge by. And the hot water would glide over his skin, running in rivulets down his chest to dampen the hair covering his nipples. 

“Yes, perhaps I shall take that shower, after all.” 

She looked up to find his enigmatic gaze. “Okay, well, I’ll just be in the kitchen then.” 

He took two steps toward her, obliterating the view of anything in the room save his massive chest. A naked chest carved with pure perfection. Dear God, she was close to another orgasm! 

Perspiration broke out across her skin and her knees went weak. “Was there something else you needed?” Was that really her voice squeaking? 

He smiled, making her insides quiver. “Oh, there is so much more that I need, my lady.” 

Heat spliced the lower half of her body and she knew if he crooked his fingers, her legs would go around his waist before she could stop herself. “You shouldn’t talk like that.” Dear God. She sounded like a prude. “Do you need more towels? I didn’t think to put more in there because that bathroom rarely gets used.” She called the words over her shoulder as she made a mad dash up the stairs to the guest room. 

Inside the bathroom, she retrieved the linens from the closet and rested her hip against the pedestal sink. She was losing it. Her mind was a muddled mess right now and the long evening stretched ahead. Hands scrubbing her face, she hunched her shoulders and tried to convince herself that she could do this. It wasn’t like she’d never been around handsome men before, but there was something about Alexander Heath, something different, powerful. How else could she explain her total lack of control when she was near him? 

She straightened and placed the linens over the porcelain towel holder. Forcing her thoughts back to task at hand, she adjusted the towels until they hung level. Then she felt eyes on her back. Her skin began to tingle and before she looked over her shoulder, she knew Alexander was there. 

“I’ll just turn the water on for you.” She made sure her voice sounded cheerful, not as jumpy as she felt inside. 

He leaned one shoulder against the door frame. “Do I make you nervous, Diane?” 

Does a big bear shit in the woods? She parted her teeth in a semblance of a smile. “Nervous? What makes you think that? I was just getting some fresh towels out. I’m sure you didn’t know where they were …” She stopped, shaking her head. 

Alexander moved into the bathroom, dominating it. “You know what I have been thinking about all day long? I couldn’t stop remembering your taste, the softness of you skin.” 

Her heart slammed against her breasts. After last night, she’d been determined not to get involved with him. An affair wasn’t what she needed but he wasn’t making this any easier for her. 

Did he know how long she’d gone without sex? Long before Sam had died, their love life had fallen by the wayside. In fact, it hadn’t taken long after their marriage for her to find out she was just a pawn in Sam’s game, his determination to get to the top of the executive ladder. 

“Don’t.” Diane managed to say, though her breaths were coming slower. “I don’t even know what happened last night. I mean, I do but I don’t know why it happened. Things like that just don’t happen to me.” A hysterical laugh bubbled from her lips. “But you’re an attractive man and it’s been a long time since I’ve had a man hold me like that or want to do the things you did to me.” She stopped babbling the minute she realized the hardness she felt pushing against her ass was Alexander’s erection. 

Her heart stopped beating for the space of a second and before he touched her she knew how this evening was going to end. 

He lifted the thickness of her hair away from her neck. “I love the length of your hair.” He brought the strands to his nose. “And the scent. You smell like the finest of English roses.” His fingers combed through the silkiness. 

Diane felt him everywhere. His masculine scent enticed her and the heat of his body warmed her. But mostly she felt his cock pushing against her ass, reminding her that he was all male. It had been such a long, long time since she’d felt like a woman and Alexander made her remember the feeling. 

“What are you thinking?” he whispered against her ear. He wrapped one arm around her waist and pulled her close. “Do you want me to tell you what I’m thinking?” His hot breath bathed her cheek. 

“Yes. No. I think I know.” She shook her head against his shoulder. “But I don’t think we should be doing this.” 

“You’ve felt the attraction since I walked through your front door, Diane, and you had to have know what you do to me. Just the sight of you brings my cock to life.” 

Her knees nearly buckled. “I shouldn’t be doing this. We shouldn’t be doing this.” Though she said the words, she couldn’t think of one good reason why they shouldn’t. “You’re a beautiful, desirable woman, Diane.” His hand splayed across her abdomen and the warmth felt simply divine. “You have needs. Even now, I can feel your hunger.” He pressed his cheek to hers. “How long has it been since you’ve been with a man?” 

A hot flush stole across her cheeks and she was glad he couldn’t see her face. “I was married, Alex.” 

His hand began to inch lower. “That didn’t answer my question. Did you lie with your husband? Did he make you feel alive, like the desirable woman you are?” 

Tears stung her eyes. “Why are you asking me these questions? I barely know you and don’t think because I let you, well, you know, that you can ask me such personal questions.” Any minute now, her nipples were going to rip through her T-shirt. 

“Why not? Do you not have desires and needs? Does your husband’s passing not make you yearn more for the touch of a man’s hands? Do you not ache to feel them gliding across your body, setting your skin afire? Last night, when my tongue caressed you, I felt you come alive beneath me. And when you touched my cock, you wanted more. You wanted to feel me pushing into you, filling you.” 

Breasts growing full, aching with need, she bit her lip to keep from crying out from the sheer agony. Her pussy pulsed with need. “Alexander,” she whispered, her head lolling back against his chest. 

“I want to touch you, Diane.” Showing her he’d been practicing, his hands went to the front of her jeans and quickly released the top button. 

Diane brushed his hands away and lowered the zipper. She was on fire, burning from the inside out, needing to feel his hands on her as much as he needed to touch her. She simply had to feel him again. 

The denim material came down quickly over her hips. That was all she had time to do before Alexander took over again. 

His palm reached her bikini line, fingers lightly tickling her skin and she closed her eyes, swamped in the sensations, breathing in the clean scent of his skin. She didn’t know what to do with her hands so she reached upwards behind her, clutching his biceps. 

His fingers crawled beneath the waistband of her panties and smoothed the lips of her pussy with easy, soft strokes. She quivered in his arms, her nails digging into his flesh. He didn’t seem to mind. 

Alexander dipped his head, whispering soft words of encouragement as his lips nibbled at her neck, her ears. She tipped her head forward, all rational thoughts spinning out the door. She desperately wanted this man, had craved his touch since the moment she’d seen him standing on her front doorstep. And now, common sense be damned. 

“Do you want me to touch you?” The naughty question purred in her ear. 

“Yes,” she replied in a breathless voice. 

Alexander chuckled and slid the tip of his index finger between the slick lips of her pussy. Then his finger went deep, finding her clit easily. Diane jumped in his arms. Would he be able to tell that she hadn’t been with a man, not even her husband, in almost two years? When he fucked her, would he know? 

“Be still, my lady. Just rest your head against my shoulder. Give yourself to me,” he commanded in a voice thick with passion. 

Diane’s head bumped backwards and she widened her stance, giving him better access to her pussy. She needed to feel the thickness of his fingers sinking deep but most importantly she wanted his cock, to know the hard length of his shaft shoving deep into her channel. Ah, God, it had been too long. 

Alexander’s other hand covered her breast through the thin cotton of her T-shirt, but another layer of fabric prevented the feel of her. With a low curse, he tugged the material over her head and stared in dismay. “Take this off.” His voice was guttural with need. 

Without an objection, Diane flicked the catches open. Her breasts spilled into Alexander’s waiting hands and he kneaded the firm globes gently. 

She snagged hold of one hand and brought it back down between her legs, urging his finger to find her clit again. He obliged without reluctance, pressing against her, rolling the sensitive bud between his thumb and forefinger until Diane could barely breathe. 

The orgasm hit within seconds and Diane cried out as her knees buckled. One arm going around her waist, Alexander held her up and as the waves of pleasure washed over her, he lifted her in his arms. Sluggishly, almost unaware of her surroundings, 

Diane opened her eyes. 

“Where are you taking me?” 

“To bed,” he responded, his gaze meeting hers. “If I don’t fuck you soon, Diane, I 

shall go mad.” 

She wound her arms around his neck. “Well, we can’t have that, can we?” He placed her atop his bed, framing her face with her mass of hair. Then he stood 

back to look down at her. “Do you have any idea how beautiful you are?” 

She moistened her lips with the tip of her tongue and shifted on the pillow. “Alex.” 

He pressed a finger to her lips to silence her. “Shhh. I want you to look into my eyes and see what I see. Flawless.” He sat down beside her on the bed and ran his palms across her abdomen. “You have such exquisite.” His head dipped, allowing his lips to kiss the skin above her panty line. “And the taste of perfection.” 

Diane’s breath came in short pants as his hands became bolder, tugging her jeans completely off her legs. His fingertips skimmed her ass as his hands worked their way back up her body. A moan escaped her throat. 

“I want to see you fully, to feast my eyes on every inch of you.” He trailed his fingertips lightly over her breasts, tweaking the nipples with expertise. Her hands bunched the comforter into her fists. 

She didn’t know if she was going to make it. Any moment now, she would self-combust. A fine sheen of perspiration covered her skin and by the time Alexander’s fingers returned to her waist and hooked in her panties, she was squirming with need. “Alex, please.” The words came out on a broken whisper, needy and weak. 

He leaned and kissed her belly. “Patience, my sweet. Patience. There’s so much I want to do to you. I want to touch you, taste you and savor your juices again.” 

The words alone were enough to create a maelstrom in the pit of her stomach. Her toes wriggled while Alex’s lips did wicked things to her breasts. He licked, suckled and tugged at her nipples while Diane’s hands roamed over his arms, his shoulders and across his back. 

Every inch of him was pure muscle, hard and unyielding. As much as he needed to see all of her, she wanted to see him. Naked. Fully erect. The thought made her shiver as much as his lips did. 

Without speaking, Alex ran his palm from her neck down across her collarbone, in between her breasts, over her abdomen until he finally reached her pussy, still covered with a fine wisp of silk. He held his hand there for a long moment while he lifted his head, allowing his eyes to meet hers. 

“How long has it been since you’ve been fucked, Diane?” 

Her mind spun with possible responses, but it never occurred to her to lie to him. “Almost two years.” The words came out brokenly as she stared up into dark pools of blue. 

He shook his head, his lips curving into a smile. “I said since you’ve been fucked, not since you’ve been with a man.” 

Her blood began to race through her veins in anticipation. Her pussy couldn’t get any wetter. “I don’t know.” 

His gaze darkened. “Tonight, you will know.” As he spoke, he scraped the waistband of her panties down her hips, across her ass, tugging the material free without any assistance. 

Heart rapping against her breast, Diane nodded. She wanted to know. Dear God, she wanted to know. 

With gentle fingers, Alex parted the lips of her pussy. Cool air hit her sensitive flesh and Diane bit her lower lip. Alex scooted down the bed to catch a full view and for a long moment, he simply looked at her. 

Diane couldn’t breathe. It was as if something had sucked all the oxygen from the room. No man had ever stared at her in such a way. Though she could only see the top of his head, she felt his breaths against her slick flesh, hot and rapid. 

“As ripe as a peach,” he murmured, dipping his head to lick her clit. “And just as juicy.” He lifted his eyes to see his face. “You’re so pink and wet, Diane. Sheer perfection.” 

Diane’s breath stalled in her lungs, but she didn’t even consider moving. She gave herself to Alex freely, her juices trickling down to her ass. She was on fire, desperate for his touch, his taste. 

Alex stroked again, circling her clit with precision. “So small and yet so powerful.” His mouth covered her pussy, his head moving as he worked his tongue up and down her creamy sheath. 

Diane gasped for air, her thighs jerking. She couldn’t seem to breathe and Alex wasn’t helping. He slipped his legs off the bed and moved until he was standing between her thighs, listening to her pants. 

“Put your legs over my shoulders,” he commanded, dropping to his knees beside the bed. His hands gripped her thighs. 

Diane scooted until her ass was closer to the edge of the bed. God, she needed more of what he was ready to give her. The heat of his tongue, the gentle glide of his fingers destroyed her senses. 

She felt him everywhere and when he inserted one finger into her hungry pussy, she jerked, moaning her welcome. “Yes, Alex. Just like that.” 

“I know how much you like this, how much you want it. And you need it so much, Diane.” He kissed the insides of her thighs, rested his cheek against her pubic bone until she squirmed with frustration. “You need to feel the sweet release of your daily worries as they slide from your shoulders.” 

He exposed her clit again. “I love your scent, Diane. You smell like a woman, earthy and strong.” His tongue lapped up her cream, circled her clit while growls escaped his throat. “And you taste like sin. I’m sure even the angels would be tempted by your beauty.” 

God, she was falling, sinking into the seduction of his voice and the rapture of his tongue. “Alex, I want to come. Please.” 

As if given permission, he pushed against her, his tongue becoming a demanding instrument of torture, worrying her clit until her vision grayed. The fingers of one hand sank into her channel while the other sought the smaller hole below. 

Diane cried out and lifted her hips off the bed at the invasion of his index finger. She’d never been penetrated there before but the combined pressure of his tongue and fingers drove her over the edge. Her muscles grew taut, convulsing as she came with a loud scream, bucking and thrashing beneath Alex’s clever mouth. 

As the orgasm released her, she opened her eyes to find Alex standing between her legs. He yanked the zipper down on his jeans, cursing when it snagged against the bottom of his shirt. A ripping noise rent the air and Alex shrugged out of the cotton shirt, throwing it to the floor. He finished undressing with a few more curses, dragging the jeans and boxer shorts down his legs. 

Diane’s eyes locked on the thickness of his cock bulging between his legs. Long and hard, it thrust outward, a heavy sac hanging below. She drew her legs up until her feet rested against the mattress. 

His knee touched the bed, his leg bumping hers. He caught hold of her legs and dragged her to the edge of the bed. “Are you ready for me?” he asked in a hoarse tone of voice but before she could answer, he inserted three fingers into her pussy, working them to stretch the muscles. 

Diane moaned, unable to think, to speak. She wanted to be fucked and now it was within her reach. So close she knew at any second, she’d feel Alex’s thick cock pulsating inside her. Her body craved his, her pussy dripping with need. 

He withdrew his fingers and touched the head of his cock to her opening. “Slide closer to me.” 

She did as he commanded, scooting her hips on the mattress until she was hanging off the mattress altogether. 

Slowly, inch by perfect inch, Alex slid his cock into the heat of her pussy. Her muscles expanded and then tightened, welcoming the intrusion. She gripped him with 

her body. The fullness of his shaft deep within her channel drove her mad with hunger, and she began to move her hips, urging him to pump his. 

“Easy, dearest,” he soothed. “We have plenty of time.” He reared back, the veins in his neck bulging. He slid his cock back out, leaving the glistening head barely touching her pussy. Then he dove into her again, a powerful thrust which made Diane scream with pleasure. “Put your arms over your head,” he instructed, one hand gripping her wrists as she obeyed. He rocked his hips forward and pushed even deeper into her. 

Diane lifted her back off the mattress, her nipples begging for the touch of his mouth, his relentless tongue. “Alex, suck me.” 

It was his turn to obey. He dropped his head and captured one engorged tip. Diane closed her eyes on a shaft of pure, divine bliss. While his cock penetrated her, sliding back and forth against her G-spot, he suckled each nipple in turn, laving the tips with the heat of his mouth and the roughness of his tongue. 

The pressure built within her and Alexander let go of her wrists to shove her legs higher, lifting her hips completely off the mattress. He straightened to stand between her legs and began a rapid, frantic rhythm, pounding into Diane’s pussy until she thrashed upon the mattress, bucking and riding the thrusts with wild abandon. 

A scream bubbled in the back of her throat as the orgasm began to squeeze her muscles, rippling over her in wave after wave of undiluted delight. Diane screamed and covered her face as she came violently. 

Alexander continued to pump for a few seconds longer, making low, animalistic noises until his own orgasm ripped through him. He came on a series of long aahhhhs before collapsing atop Diane’s perspiring body. 

“Sweet heaven,” he murmured against her breasts. “I’ve never had such perfection before.” 

Tears stung the backs of Diane’s eyes and she stroked his hair. She couldn’t speak for the lump in her throat. Finally, after a long silence, Alexander lifted his head to meet her gaze. 

“Diane?” He slid out of her pussy and climbed up onto the bed, sliding next to her. “What’s wrong? Why are you crying?” 

She shook her head and dabbed at the tears. She couldn’t tell him. Humiliation would overwhelm her but there was no way on earth she could tell this stranger that she’d never had an orgasm during sex before. Oh, she’d had plenty of clitoral orgasms, thanks to her trusty battery-operated boyfriends but never with a cock inside her. She’d come so hard that her muscles now ached pleasurably and her skin glowed with the aftereffects. 

“Diane?” Alexander splayed across her abdomen. 

She placed two fingers against his lips. “I want to do this again.” 

His eyes widened before a grin split his face. “Well, Ma’am, I’ll do my damnedest to accommodate you.” 

Chapter Five 

The whistling woke her first, a happy, carefree sound which should have made her smile. Instead, embarrassment wrapped itself around her, a living entity with a tight hold. How could she have slept with a man she barely knew? Other women could have one-night stands but not her. She’d never given herself that permission. She had children to raise and the last thing she wanted was for them to discover their mother’s indiscretions. 

Allowing him to eat her had been one thing, but this, well this was just different. She’d spent the night in Alex’s arms without even considering this would be one more nail in her coffin. 

For all she knew, her parents could have posted a private investigator outside of her house. He could have watched them together last night. With a flicker of panic, she shot a glance toward the curtains, grateful to see they were drawn together tightly. 

Wincing, Diane sat up against the headboard, pushing her hair away from her face. A glance down at her flushed body only made her cringe even more but the ache of her muscles told the tale. 

She and Alex had spent most of the evening and far into the wee hours of the morning learning about one another’s bodies, exploring every inch until they’d fallen asleep in one another’s arms, exhausted but satiated. 

And with the light of day came the knowledge that their explorations could destroy her family. 

Breaking into her train of thought, Alex came strolling into the bedroom, carrying a tray with a glass of orange juice and a mutilated piece of toast. He was wearing jeans again but had left the top button undone and had foregone a shirt, leaving his chest bare.“Not exactly my very best effort but it’s reasonably worthy.” 

He placed the tray next to the bed and straightened, his eyes dropping to her face. “Diane? What is wrong?” The mattress dipped beneath his weight as he beside her.. 

Diane scooted away from him, bringing the comforter up to her neck. “I-nothing-nothing’s wrong. I’m just tired.” 

“You look upset.” 

The man was as good as her mother when it came to clairvoyance. The thought irritated her and Diane lifted one shoulder in a dismissing shrug. “I slept with you last night.” 

A dimple appeared when he smiled. “I do not recall much sleeping taking place.” 

She scowled at him. “It means had sex. I had sex with you and I don’t even know you.” Punching the pillow behind her, she resituated it before flopping back against it. 

Actually, she’d had sex with him more than once. Several times, to be exact. Several blissful, creative times. And her mind wouldn’t allow her to forget this any time soon. “I’ve never done that before…slept with a stranger I mean.” 

Alex shifted to face her. “Do you really think we are strangers?” He twined one lock of her hair around his fingers. 

“I think I’m not going to have this discussion with you.” Her gaze dropped to the tops of her breasts visible at the edge of the comforter, another wagging finger. 

His palm settled against her thigh. “Diane, you have no shame in this. Neither of us do. What happened was a natural occurrence between a man and a woman.” 

“Don’t preach to me. There was nothing natural about my forgetting who I am or where I am…or…or even what I am.” 

“What you are is a vibrantly beautiful, sexy, alive woman who needed to know she was all of that and more. ” 

She sat up straighter in bed. “Stop saying things like that.” Her hands clenched beneath the comforter. “Look, I know you’re only trying to make this easier but you don’t really know me.” 

Alex looked taken aback. “I learned everything about you last night, Diane.” 

His voice made her shiver. “Physically, yes. I’ll not deny that but you don’t really know who I am.” 

Turning, with one knee on the bed, he leaned toward her. “But I want to know.” 

He looked so sincere, so caring that she had to look away. She wouldn’t allow 

herself to fall into that trap again. “That’s not possible.” 

It was his turn to scowl. “I do not understand.” 

“I’m not interested in carrying this any further, Alex. I don’t want a relationship.” 

As if shot from a cannon, he leapt off the bed. “So you are content to sleep with me as you call it, but not to get to know me, not to move forward? I will not deny that I have had past dalliances, but this,“he swept an arm above her body,“I considered more than just a mere dalliance. I want it to be more.” 

She rolled over, presenting her back to him. “There’s nothing to move forward toward and there is no more this. I can’t continue to do this!” No matter how much she wanted to be with Alex, she couldn’t risk losing custody of her children. And there was no doubt in her mind that Baylor and Sandra Morgan would win. They had every judge in a one-hundred mile radius in their hip pockets. 

“Then tell me why you cannot.” 

“Because we are two very different people. You have an entire world to explore, but I’m already here. I’m stuck here, trapped, rather and…” She stopped, lifted her head and looked at him over her shoulder. “It’s hard to explain.” 

“Which usually means a person doesn’t want to explain. I’m considered an intelligent man in my world, Diane. You do not need to simplify things for me.” 

“Then you should understand without my having to tell you why this can’t go any further.” 

“I understand you are not willing to look beyond your fears and I wonder what your husband must have done to you to create such doubt within you.” 

Sucking in a sharp breath, Diane clenched her hands into fists. She didn’t want to have this conversation. What happened between her and Sam was over. Dead and buried but she still thought about their marriage. Every day and she wouldn’t find herself in the same situation with Alex as she had with Sam. Nor would she allow a relationship to come before her children. 

“Do you know why my parents want to take my children away from me?” Was it her imagination or was that hysteria in her voice? “Because you’re here.” 

Alex stood beside the bed for a long moment, long enough to make Diane feel the need to squirm. “And you would allow them to dictate who you have in your life then?” 

“You don’t understand. My parents are very powerful, very influential people.” 

“So you choose not to fight them then.” 

“There is no choice, dammit! I have been in this family long enough to know there is no battle that the Morgans cannot win!” 

Alex ducked his head for a long moment before he fixed her with a penetrating gaze. “Eat your breakfast. We can discuss this later after I return.” 

Those words did make her roll over. “What? What do you mean after you return? Where are you going?” 

He glanced over his shoulder. “I am to meet a gentleman this morning regarding employment.” 

“But how are you going to get there? What guy? Is this something Sebastian cooked up?” God, she was starting to sound desperate now but the truth was, she didn’t want him to leave. Perhaps she was afraid he wouldn’t return. Not that she could blame him. Not too many men would want to stay long enough to break past the shell surrounding her heart. 

But the past two days had created a longing within her to learn more about Alex and yet, the deep-rooted fears would hinder any further studies. 

“I will take another cab, Diane. Why are you so distraught?” 

Her brow wrinkled as she searched her memory. Then her face cleared. “Sebastian gave you money?” Without thought to her lack of clothing, she scrambled from the bed. “But do you even know how much he gave you? How to spend it? I haven’t taught you that. I need to teach you that.” 

She took a step closer and placed her hand on his arm, hearing the hiss of his breath as he drew it deep into his lungs. “I’ll drive you wherever you need to go. You shouldn’t be alone in the city until you get used to it.” 

He covered her hand with his and gently pried her fingers away. “Diane, I am not a child and this is something I would prefer to do by myself.” He brought her hand to his mouth and kissed her palm. 

“When will you be back?” Wasn’t she just the one pushing him away and now, she was almost desperate to find out when he would come back? Nothing was making any sense. She was confused, enraptured and in more trouble than she had been in a long time. 

Wrapping one arm around her waist, he dragged her into his arms. “You will miss me then?” 

Tongue-tied, she could only stare up at him. “Alex, this is crazy.” 

He gave her a hard kiss and put her at arm’s length. “I should leave now before I cannot.” Two more steps carried him toward the door and he paused with his hand on the knob. “And in my world, this is not considered crazy, Diane. ‘Tis natural for a man and a woman to answer their attraction.” 

With those last words, he tugged open the door, stepped out into the hallway and walked away. 

Diane sank back down onto the bed and dropped her face into her hands. How could she explain this to him so that Alex would understand? He wasn’t in his world anymore and here, insanity was a very real possibility. 

Never mind her parents’ disapproval and threats. She couldn’t offer her heart to another man, especially when she wasn’t sure she could live up to his expectations. She’d gone through that hell once but her heart told her the pain would be triple were she to disappoint Alex as she had Sam. 

* * * * * Alexander found the address easily enough thanks to a friendly chap with two gold teeth and a ring through his eyebrow. And apparently, Sebastian Hanniker did know more than Alexander had given him credit for. The man in charge, who Alexander learned later was the foreman, hired him on the spot with barely a glance at the papers Alexander had brought with him. A burly man with bushy eyebrows and arms the size of a small oak tree, Vance Baker didn’t speak in full sentences and gave Alexander the once over, his eyes 

narrowed against the sun. 

“You swing a hammer before?” 

That question was easy enough. “Yes, sir, I have.” 

“Then get on up that ladder and help Brown nail that plywood down. Got a 

schedule to keep. No playin’ around.” 

Alexander rolled up the sleeves of his shirt and glanced toward the rickety ladder but before he could ask any questions, Baker had strode away. 

“Hey, I could use a hand up here,” came a nasally voice from above. 

And just like that, Alexander had a job, though he had no idea his wages or the working hours. But it didn’t matter. Gainful employment was important. 

Especially if he was going to be able to convince Diane that he could take care of her. 

He missed her already. Her laughter. The scent of her hair. The feel of her legs wrapped around his hips and the softness of her breasts beneath his chest. His cock grew heavy. Bloody hell. What was he supposed to do now? 

“Work,” Brown barked. 

Alexander lifted his head. “Pardon me?” 

“You asked what you were supposed to do now. Work. That’s what you’re 

supposed to do. Now swing that damned hammer and let’s get this shit done. I’m tired of Vance crawling up my ass because we’re running behind.” 

With a wry grin, Alexander ducked his head and swung the hammer. He hadn’t realized he’s spoken aloud but he wasn’t surprised. 

Besotted fools did tend to behave in a betwattled manner. 

* * * * * What had she been thinking? She’d just turned Alexander loose out into a harsh, cruel world which would not be sympathetic to his lack of knowledge. Dressing frantically, she raced down the stairs, skidding to a stop as she realized she didn’t know where in the hell to look for him. A light dawned and she took the stairs two at a time, silently asked for forgiveness and pushed open the door to the guest bedroom Alexander was occupying. Ordinarily, she would never pry into someone’s privacy but this was an emergency. Hands on hips, she surveyed the room, inhaling Alexander’s masculine scent. “Okay, there’s no time for that, Diane. Think.” She had to find Sebastian’s address. Only he would know where to find Alexander. 

A small book of poetry lying on the bedside table captured her attention. Alexander read poetry? Fascinated, she lifted the worn book and sank down onto the bed, her fingers gentle as they turned the crackling linen pages. 

Her heart began to thud faster in her chest as images whirled before her eyes. She saw Carla again, writing with painstaking precision, giving detailed instructions to Alexander. And the handwriting was so similar to her own. 

Unable to resist, Diane read each snippet of information until she reached the center of the book. A folded piece of paper tucked into an envelope sealed shut. She held it up to the light but couldn’t make out the contents. Irritated, she returned the letter to its place and continued reading. 

She found Sebastian’s address on a small piece of paper written in the same handwriting. “Thank you, Carla.” 

Jumping to her feet, she replaced the poetry book and raced out of the room, taking the time to give the room one more once over. Though against everything she believed in, she knew she’d return to read more of the book. The information she’d gleaned from the notes had told her volumes about the man she had living under her roof but she wanted to know more. 

Snatching her keys from the table by the front door, she shoved her feet into a pair of brown loafers next to the door. Pausing to check her reflection in the oval mirror over the foyer table, she winced and finger-combed her hair. 

“Okay, Diane. Worry less about your looks and more about finding Alex. Finding employment, my ass. You have no idea what you’re up against.” 

Her cell phone rang just as she turned the key into the lock. “Hello?” 

“Your father and I would like to meet with you and Mr. Harris at his office this afternoon.” Sandra Morgan’s tone was as cold as the ice in her veins. 

“That’s impossible. I have other things to do and I’m not going to discuss the custody of my children with you. I gave birth to them, Mother, and they will stay with me.” Or she would move out of New York altogether. She’d be damned if she’d allowed her parents to take away her children. 

She wondered what England was like. The fleeting thought caught her unawares, giving Sandra the opportunity she needed to blast her displeasure. 

“Diane, you are not behaving like an adult. How could your father and I possibly allow our grandchildren to grow up in an environment where you have strange men staying with you—strange men who walk around your house naked?” 

Her mother seemed to dwell on that particular part of her meeting with Alexander. “I’m not going to explain my life to you. I’m tired of this and I’m sick of being put under the microscope by you and Baylor Morgan.” 

She slid behind the wheel of her car and punched the key in the ignition. “I give up. I know I’ll never live up to your expectations so I’m done.” 

The line grew deadly quiet and for a long moment, Diane only heard the sound of her mother’s uneven breaths. “Then you leave us no choice but to move forward with our decision. Our grandchildren will not be exposed to your immoral dalliances.” 

As the dial tone sounded in her ear, Diane gave a bark of laughter, sliding the gear shift into reverse and backing out of the garage. She accelerated out onto the street with a wicked grin. Immoral dalliances, indeed. If only her mother knew… 

What she’d shared with Alexander had been much more than just an immoral dalliance. It had been, well, phenomenal. She’d never experienced such power, such raw energy with any other man. 

And what had she done the next morning? Pushed him away because of her own insecurities. Damn. “Carla, I wish you were here. Though I don’t remember our conversations, something tells me you were better at understanding me that I am.” * * * * * 

Sebastian wasn’t happy when he answered the door of his apartment and from the smell emanating from his breath, he was already three sheets to the wind. Diane tried not to wince as she clutched her purse close to her side and faced him. 

“Sebastian, I need to know where you sent Alex.” 

Beady eyes blinked at her. “What?” He scratched his head and took a staggering step backwards. 

Patience at an all time low, Diane drew in a deep breath and spoke slowly. “You 

told Alex where to go for a job.” 

“Alex?” More blinking, this time much more rapid. “Who in the hell is Alex?” 

This time, her teeth clenched. “Alexander. Alexander Heath. The guy you helped 

when he arrived here from the nineteenth century!” “Ohhhhh!” Realization dawned followed by more scratching. “I don’t know. Some place down on Canal Street. You can find it.” Canal Street? God, just the thought of driving down that street made her jittery. “What company?” She had to have some way to pinpoint where Alex might be. Canal Street was always crawling with people and bumper to bumper traffic. If he was inside an apartment building, she’d never find him. Sebastian glared at her. “How the fuck should I know? Go look for him!” He slammed the door shut, leaving Diane standing in the darkened hallway. “Thanks for nothing!” She smacked her palm against the door and stood there for a long moment before turning toward the stairs. “Well, Canal Street here I come.” * * * * * Alexander heard the whistles before he saw Diane. Stunned, he could only watch her walk across the concrete. The sun glinted off her dark hair and caressed her face, causing his heart to skip a beat. Had it really been just that morning since he’d last seen her? 

“Hot damn!” Brown yelled, leaning over the edge of the plywood platform. “Catch a look at that piece of classy ass.” 

Pure fury boiled in Alexander’s veins and he snatched Brown by the back of his shirt and hauled him to his feet. “She is not a piece of ass.” 

Brown yanked himself free and tugged his cotton shirt back into place. “Then you’re not seeing what I’m seeing.” 

Alexander’s hands fisted at his sides and he resisted the urge to smash his fist in the man’s face. Instead, he caught hold of the ladder and swung one leg over the side of the building, beginning his descent. 

“Hey! Where the hell you going? You got work to do!” 

Ignoring the questions, Alexander jumped when he was three rungs from the ground. “Diane!” 

She looked up and he saw the relief on her face. “Alex! I can’t believe I actually found you!” 

He caught hold of her shoulders and hauled her over to the side of the half-finished apartment. “What are you doing here?” He had to raise his voice to be heard over the drill of the jackhammer. 

“I wanted to make sure you were okay. You don’t know your way around the city and when it dawned on my that I’d let you go, I was worried.” Her hands caressed his face while she babbled on about his welfare. “You shouldn’t have left like that, Alex. You could have been hurt and—“ 

He pressed two fingers to her lips to silence her. “Diane, as you can see, I am well.” 

Her concern gave him a strange feeling, one he’d never had before. 

“Yo, Heath! You working or dicking around?” 

Alexander flicked a glance over his shoulder. He wasn’t accustomed to being talked to in such a manner but he was sure he didn’t like it. “You should go now.” 

“Who is that guy?” 

“My employer.” The word didn’t sound right to him. 

“Heath,” Vance stuck his head around the corner and glared. “You fucking ignoring me?” 

Alexander pulled Diane behind him, shielding her with his body. “I am in the middle of a conversation, Mr. Baker. I shall return to work shortly.” 

Bushy eyebrows escalated. “Shortly? No. You’ll get your ass back to work now or take a hike. Now, tell your pretty little pussy to go home and wait for you.” 

This time, Alexander didn’t attempt to control his anger. He lunged forward and snagged hold of Vance’s collar, bouncing him against the clean pine studs. “It seems 

you have forgotten your manners. You will apologize to the lady.” 

“Alex, don’t!” Diane came forward but Alexander didn’t turn around. 

“Stay back, Diane. Mr. Baker has something to say to you.” 

“That’s it, Heath. You’re fired. Get the hell out of here before I kick your ass.” Vance 

spat toward the ground. “And take the snazzy little bitch with you. I don’t have time for this shit.” 

Alexander bounced him again before ramming his fist into Vance’s stomach. 

“Alex, for God’s sake!” 

He felt Diane tugging at his arm but he couldn’t let go of the man’s collar. All he could see was a red haze of fury which coated his vision. And all he wanted to do was grind his fist into Vance’s face. 

“He still owes you an apology, Diane, and we are not leaving without it.” 

“It’s not necessary.” She continued to pull at him, urging him to let go. 

With a low curse, Alexander gave Vance one more shove before releasing him. “I find you are correct, Diane. He is not worth the effort it would take to, what is it you said again, Mr. Baker, oh, yes, kick his ass.” 

Taking Diane’s hand, he led her away from the apartment building toward the street. “Did you drive here?” 

“I’m parked over here.” Her voice was strangely quiet. 

“You are angry with me.” He quickly deduced once he’d clicked the seatbelt into place. 

“I’ve never been a big fan of testosterone.” 

“I am not familiar with—“ 

“I know. I know. You’re not familiar with testosterone. It can mean a lot of things. Men showing how macho they are.” Her hands twisted around the wheel in front of her. “Never mind. It’s not important.” 

Her foot tapped one of the pedals below and the car surged forward. And Alexander did not have to be familiar with the twenty-first century to know Diane wasn’t going to talk any more…at least not now. 

* * * * * 

“We should talk.” Diane finally said after a long silence. She’d had to give herself 

time to understand exactly what had happened back at the job site. 

“I am glad you are speaking to me again.” 

The wry tone of his voice made her smile. Apparently, her silence had been bothering him. “The Anderson Suites are up ahead. They always keep a room reserved for my family.” As she said the words, she didn’t even contemplate what she was saying but the truth was, if she didn’t get him alone soon, she was going to do something which would get them both arrested. 

How could a small fight have made her so hot? But the sight of Alexander, with his muscles bunching, punching the foreman in the stomach to defend her had been a powerful image. 

“You don’t wish to talk at home then.” 

She felt his eyes on her face but she couldn’t look at him. “The traffic is so bad right now. I want to give it time to thin out some.” He wouldn’t know that the traffic on Canal Street rarely got any better than it was right now and that was tailpipe to tailpipe. 

She just had to get him alone. He’d started a fire in the center of her stomach which had been burning since he’d left her bedroom that morning. 

His hand touched her leg and she jumped. “Diane, why are you upset with me?” 

Her breath shuddered out of her lungs. “I’m not upset, Alex. I’m hot.” The second the words escaped her mouth, she blushed. What in the hell had gotten into her? 

“Hot? The temperature is not that high. Perhaps you are ill?” 

Frustrated, Diane shifted in the seat, dislodging his hand. “It’s not that kind of hot,” she muttered below her breath. 

Fingers beginning to move over her jean-clad thigh, Alex chuckled. “If you’re not angry with me, then why are you shaking right now?” His hand slipped lower. 

“Alex, I’m trying to drive.” Good God. She was shaking like a virgin on prom night and she couldn’t drive any faster. The hotel was still a few miles away and with Alex’s fingers dancing close to the heat between her legs, she wasn’t so sure she could make it without exploding in traffic. 

“Are you wet for me, my lady?” 

The words caused her hand to jerk. The car swerved before Diane quickly brought it back under control. “Alex, stop.” 

He relaxed back against the seat but didn’t move his hand. “As you wish.” 

He knew. Damn him. It hadn’t taken Alexander long to learn this part of the 

century. Feeling wanton was a new feeling to her but he seemed completely in control. But once glance out of the corner of her eye told a different story. The bulge between his legs gave him away. Thank God. * * * * * As the valet pulled the car away from the curb, Alexander wrapped one arm around Diane’s waist. “So what exactly was it that you had in mind, my lady?” Her 

tongue caressed her lower lip and Alexander’s cock jumped. No other woman had ever had such an immediate effect on him. 

Her head tipped back, she stared up at him, causing Alexander’s heart to leap within his chest. “Do I really have to tell you?” 

He couldn’t take his eyes off of her. She looked wonderfully disheveled with her hair wind-whipped and dark spectacles sitting askew on the bridge of her nose. And absolutely beautiful. 

Good enough to eat. 

His breath quickened and he swept one hand toward the entrance to the hotel. “Shall we go inside then?” Without giving her time to respond, he cupped her elbow and escorted her through the doors of this thing she called “hotel”. Any other time, he would have stopped to admire the décor and the modern day conveniences but for 

now, he was only interested in one thing. 

Getting Diane alone. 

“Come on. The elevator is over here.” Diane practically yanked him toward a set of 

double doors that made a slight hissing sound when they opened. 

“The elevator?” He peered inside the small box while Diane tugged at his arm. 

“What are you waiting for?” Her tone was urgent, demanding. 

He stepped inside, at once fascinated. 

She punched a small, round button with the number seven on it and the doors 

swished shut. Alexander stared at those buttons for a long moment until the box jerked and began to climb upwards. “Ye gads!” he barked. “How is such a thing possible?” 

“It’s a long story and I’m not even sure I understand it myself.” 

“Well, the inventor must be absolutely brilliant.” 

“Yeah, well, if you think that’s something, wait until you see an escalator.” The doors dinged and she stepped out into the hallway, turning to wait for him. 

He followed her. “An escalator?” 

“Moving stairs.” 

Alexander began to laugh. “Now, I fear you are having fun at my expense. Moving stairs, indeed.” 

Diane chuckled and slid a card into a thin slot atop a small metal box. 

“What the—“ The door opened before he could get the rest of the words out. 

And the instant Diane stepped across the threshold, he reached for her, dragging her into his arms and feasting on her lips like a drowning man in need of water. She was soft and pliant in his arms, her hands wild in his hair. His cock came alive and as she curled her legs around his waist, the fires burned within his chest. 

He pushed the door shut and press her back against it, his hands cupping her ass to hold her in place. His lips ravaged hers before traveling down to her neck, her shoulder and back up to her cheek. She smelled like a soft, summer breeze in England and tasted like the finest in Irish whiskey. 

Without asking for permission, he began to tear at her blouse, yanking the soft, billowy material up over her shoulders. She was wearing that same damnable contraption again which bound her breasts and withheld them from his gaze. What happened to ladies’ corsets? He could undo one of those in record time. Not that he would mention that to Diane, of course. His arms wrapped around hers and began to tug at the elastic. 

“No, wait,” Diane breathed into his neck. Her hands assisted him and her breasts fell free. 

“Thank God,” he whispered, cupping the weight of each soft, plump mound in his hands. The nipples were peaked and rosy and as succulent as ripe strawberries in the summer. 

His mouth closed around each tip in turn, suckling and lavishing that tender portion of her flesh until Diane cried his name and tightened her hold on his hair. He lowered her legs to the ground and commanded, “Take your clothes off. I want to see you.” 

As she began to undress he followed suit, peeling off his shirt with more haste than decorum and shoving the damnable jeans down his legs. He wanted to watch Diane undress, but he wanted to taste her even more. 

He freed his cock from its restraints and he breathed a sigh of relief…until Diane’s hand curled around its thickness. ‘Twas perfectly sinful. His throat tightened and threatened to close while Diane’s petite, silky hand slid up and down his length. 

He closed his eyes and braced his arms over her head, palms pushing against the door to hold himself aloft. Such madness would surely send him over the edge into sweet oblivion. He could die at this moment, content and ready to meet his Maker. 

Diane’s lips branded his chest, her pink tongue flicking at his nipples. His knees buckled and he cursed low, a plea hidden within the depths of the words. But she sank even lower, dropping to her knees in front of him. Surely any minute now, his heart would stop beating. 

Her hand cupped the sac beneath his cock and Alexander thrust his head back, groaning his approval. Her other hand grew still on his thick shaft and he looked down, saw that her head was tilted upwards, her eyes searching for his. 

Their gazes locked, breaths mingled in the air and then Diane licked her lips, allowing her tongue to linger at the corners of her mouth. Alexander jerked, his bollocks drawing tight against his cock. With her tongue still extended, Diane gave his cock an experimental stroke, bathing the taut skin with wetness. 

“Sweet Mother of God,” he cried, his hands diving into the wealth of her hair. 

She licked again, a much longer glide of her tongue over his rigid cock. She flicked the head and gathered the bit of moisture clinging to the top. His breaths began to 

come in short gasps, lungs crying out for air. The woman was a sorceress, destined to drive him wild with need. Diane’s hands ran up the backs of his thighs and began to massage his ass, digging her 

fingers into the firm flesh. And then her mouth, a moist, dark cavern, covered the head of his cock. Alexander’s hands fisted around the strands of chestnut-colored hair, holding on, begging her silently to continue. 

With just the right amount of strength and pressure she suckled him, licking and bathing his cock until his abdomen drew tight and he cried out for release. Her fingers returned to his bollocks and lightly tickled the sac. 

His hips beginning to pump, he dropped his hands to her face and cupped her cheeks. She tightened her mouth and her tongue began to move wildly against the underside of his cock. 

The feel of her hot, wet tongue was so perfect, so completely sinful. And the soft, mewling noises Diane made, combined with her expertise set his head to spinning. He couldn’t think. Awash in the pleasure, he could only hold on and feel. 

Hell, yeah, he could feel. Everything. All of it. Her soft, pink tongue stroked the most sensitive spot of his cock. Her nails tormented his sac and her mouth, so tight, sucked him voraciously. 

“Diane.” The word held a plea. She hesitated, a silent invitation to continue. “I want to spill my seed inside you.” Her head drew back and she looked up at him. “Are you sure?” His hands curled around her upper arms and he pulled her to her feet. He needed 

to touch her and his fingers sank deep into her pussy. She was creamy and warm, ready for him, her plump flesh quivering with anticipation. 

He withdrew his hand and lifted her again, locking her legs around his hips. “Hold on, my heart,” he instructed, using one hand to guide his cock toward her pulsating pussy. 

“Fuck me now, Alex. Fuck me hard.” 

The words astounded him, unsettled him, but he thrust into her, shoving his cock all the way in, deep inside. At once, she began to throb around him, her muscles clenching, holding him. 

“You’re so tight,” he whispered. 

She shook her head and dropped it to his chest. 

He tipped her chin. “You are. So tight and hot.” His hips began to pump. “And beautiful. And sexy.” The pace intensified and her pupils dilated, her lips parting on a moan. 

Her small hands settled onto his shoulders and clasped against his skin. “Faster, Alex. Faster.” 

His hands captured her ass, lifting her higher, impaling her on his rigid cock. He rode her hard, like a wild stallion he was trying to break. Her hips slammed against the door behind her and she dragged him closer until they were chest to chest. Her teeth nipped at his neck and then soothed the wounds with her tongue. 

He felt the spasms begin deep within her channel seconds before he heard her cry, a long, keening wail of surprise and release. He pushed in a few more times and came so hard the pressure drove him to his toes. His fingers dug into her flesh, branding her as his seed released into her wetness. 

Diane’s head moved to his shoulder and she pressed warm, wet kisses against his skin. “That was incredible.” 

Incredible. He couldn’t think of a better word himself. 

Chapter Six 

Diane knew the blissful feeling would be too good to last but the sight of her mother’s sleek silver sedan sitting outside her house validated her thought. 

“Why don’t you wait in the car while I talk to my mother?” The last thing she wanted was a scene with Sandra Morgan but Alexander was already opening the car door. 

“Jesus. Don’t you ever listen?” 

“You have no morals!” Sandra snapped the second Diane reached the front door. 

She didn’t even know her mother could move that fast. “Mother, stop.” What she really wanted to say was that people with morals didn’t have as much fun as she’d had that afternoon. 

Alexander shouldered his way forward, managing to come between Diane and her mother. “Mrs. Morgan, how nice to see you again.” The words rang false in the air. 

Sandra’s mouth worked like a fish gasping for air. “How dare you even speak to me after that disgusting display?” 

One blond eyebrow lifted and before Diane could intervene, Alex responded, “Display? If you are referring to my lack of clothing the last time we met, perhaps it would benefit you not to intrude into someone’s home.” 

“Intrude!” 

Knowing her mother was working up to full steam, Diane pushed open the front door and stepped inside, her hand catching hold of Alex’s. “Mother, I don’t know why you came but I can’t talk to you right now.” 

Sandra’s palm slapped the wood, a move which seemed to startle her. “You have been saying that ever since this…this man came here. I was serious when I said you’d given us no choice. Even now Jed Harris is preparing the paperwork for a lawsuit, Diane, but your father and I don’t want to have to do this.” 

Diane wanted to slam the door in her mother’s face but instead, she remained standing in the entrance way, her back rigid. “I’m sure you don’t, Mother. You and Father never like to cause dissension.” Sarcasm dripped from each word. 

“Do you really think we want to take your children away?” 

“You will not,” Alexander said in such a quiet tone that Diane thought of a moment she imagined the words. 

Sandra’s mouth gaped again. “This is none of your business and for that matter, you shouldn’t even be listening to this conversation.” 

Diane sensed Alexander’s building anger and moved quickly to diffuse it. “I’m not going to talk about Jake and Amy with you, Mother. Enough is enough. You’re carrying 

this too far and I’m not going to discuss this anymore. You’re not getting my children.” 

“Don’t be so sure about that.” 

Her mother’s words made her skin ice and as she closed the door, Diane realized 

she wasn’t so sure. * * * * * “She’s really going to do this,” Diane whispered, pressing her palms flat against the closed door. She felt Alex standing behind her and as if reading her mind, he came closer, resting his hands on her hips. “Why are you so concerned, Diane? Do you really believe the courts would allow 

your parents to take away your children?” 

She shivered. “I have to get out of here. The kids and I—we can’t stay here.” 

He wrapped his arms around her, pulling her tight against his chest. “Then come 

back to England with me.” 

Diane gave an abrupt laugh. “England? You don’t even live there anymore.” 

“Then we can explore it together.” He turned her in his arms. “I want you with me, 

Diane. Let me help you.” 

“My kids don’t know you.” She shook her head. “No. I have to get away but going with you isn’t going to make this any better.” With a sick feeling in the pit of her stomach, she realized that this was actually happening. What she’d long feared was taking place. 

Sandra and Baylor Morgan would fight tooth and nail for what they wanted and right now, they wanted Jake and Amy. 

Alex turned her in his arms. Wearing a blue cotton shirt which fit his broad shoulders to perfection, he was deadly attractive. Diane was barely able to resist melting against his chest. And focusing on his words was even more difficult. 

“I do not understand this antipathy your mother has for you but you should not allow her venom to control your life.” He palmed her face. 

“You just don’t know my mother, Alex.” Pulling out of his embrace, she toed off her sneakers and walked into the kitchen. She caught her reflection in the gleaming chrome of the sub-zero and winced. 

Her eyes looked wide in her pale face and though she’d applied light makeup, she could still see the flush to her cheeks. She looked as nervous as she felt. 

“I do not need to know your mother, Diane. I know you.” 

Her hands clenched into fists. “If you really did, then you’d know that my mother has always been a strong influence in my life.” 

“A negative one at that.” 

His words didn’t surprise her. Alex wasn’t a stupid man. The two confrontations he’d had with her had been enough to form the basis of an opinion. 

The familiar butterflies danced in her stomach and she wished she could see Carla’s face again. She needed the calming influence. Everything was changing around her, the walls collapsing. 

“This has been my home for so long, I don’t even know where I’ll go.” A spark ignited within her and for a brief moment, she got the wild notion to stay, to fight her parents and prove that her children belonged with her. But she’d seen behind the judicial scenes one too many times. When one of her father’s employees had gotten into trouble with the law, he’d always been there to hand over a thick wad of money to make the charges disappear. 

She had no doubt he was more than capable of convincing any one of the judges he knew to see things his way. And the thought of Jake and Amy living with Sandra and Baylor Morgan was enough to turn her stomach. 

“Diane? Are you listening to me?” His warm breath caressed the back of her neck and the exasperation in Alex’s voice reminded her of the typical twenty-first century male. 

Diane clutched the edge of the counter. “Alex, what are we doing?” 

“What do you mean?” 

She swallowed hard. “This is…this can’t be a relationship and yet that’s exactly what it feels like.” Hope fluttered in her heart in spite of her the warning bells which rang in her head. 

“Diane, I know you had a bad relationship with your husband and what’s happening between us has been sudden and wild, not to mention more than a little unsettling.” His hands slid up and down her arms, offering warmth and comfort. “But that does not mean it cannot last.” 

“Sam’s parents are supposed to call me tomorrow morning. They’ve been traveling with the children. I’m going to tell them to bring Jake and Amy back home.” 

“You aren’t listening to me,” Alex admonished. “Mayhap this is why I came to this century—for you and the children.” 

She turned and her hand settled over his heart. “Don’t even say it. I don’t want to hear anything about destiny or fate or whatever else you’re thinking.” 

His eyebrow arched. “Would you deny yourself the chance to discover whether fate really exists?” 

His words were warming her, cocooning her in a web of safety. And for now, she could allow herself to believe everything would be all right. 

“I will not allow you to be hurt again, Diane. Believe me when I tell you that.” 

She didn’t correct him though she knew he couldn’t really help her. In reality, the only way to protect her family would be to leave Manhattan and her roots far behind. But she didn’t have to do it today. 

Tomorrow. That was when she would think about the changes she would have to make in her life and the lives of her children. Her heart ached a little at the thought of leaving Alex behind in a strange city but it would be best that way. 

“What are you thinking?” His forehead bumped hers lightly. 

“That I can’t get enough of you.” Her breath mingled with his. 

He drew his head back and a slow, wicked smile spread across his face. “Actually, I was thinking the same thing.” His finger trailed from her pulse point down in between her breasts. “Perhaps I need to show you that destiny is real.” 

Anticipation gripped her and her pussy began to throb. “I doubt you can convince me of that.” 

“Oh, I think I can.” 

“We really shouldn’t do this again. It’s not really solving anything.” The words sounded weak even to her own ears. She knew she was fighting a losing battle. Because she didn’t want to stop him. Every time he was near, she wanted him and when they were apart, she craved his touch. 

Alex slid his hand up to the button at the top of her jeans but Diane stopped him, quickly intervening to tug the zipper down herself. In an instant, the thick denim was sliding down over her hips, leaving her in a wispy thong. 

Taking his hand, she pressed it against her pussy, allowing him to feel the dampness of her panties. 

Alex groaned low in his throat. “Dear God, woman, are you trying to drive me mad?” 

Diane wiggled the thin straps away from her hips, getting into the game. “Don’t you like knowing what you do to me?” As she stepped out of her jeans and panties, kicking them aside, she looked up to see Alex’s eyes blazing with heat. “You haven’t answered me, Alex.” 

He coughed and made a strangled sound in the back of his throat as he snatched her closer. “Now,” his fingers began to work between the petals of her pussy, “you know you really don’t have to ask me that question, don’t you?” 

Putting her hands behind her, Diane lifted herself up onto the marble counter, splaying her legs to give him better access to what she was offering. For good measure, she reached down and parted the lips of her pussy with her fingers while her breath hitched in her throat. 

Alex stepped closer and wedged his fingers into the tight crevice of her cleft. Diane’s heart spiked and she closed her eyes, tipping her head back. 

He surprised her by tugging on her hands, pulling her off the counter and into his arms. Her eyes popped open. “What are you doing?” 

He carried her to the café table by the picture window before lowering her feet to the floor. 

“Alex, what you are you doing?” She was breathless with anticipation. 

He countered her question with a command. “Turn around and place your hands on the table.” 

Excitement made her muscles clench. “Alex, I?” 

“Diane.” 

Her body humming, she turned, placing her hands palms down against the smooth table top. 

“Spread your legs.” 

The deep, guttural demands ratcheted her blood pressure up several notches and Diane obeyed mindlessly. Her bare ass wiggled in the cool air. “Alex.” 

He trailed a finger between her ass cheeks. “Yes, Diane?” 

She moaned as his finger slipped further down and then into her pussy, curling to tickle her sensitive flesh. “Oh, God,” she whispered, her head dropping forward. 

Alex withdrew his damp finger and ran it between her cheeks again, wetting the crease. He repeated the action again and again until she was soaked with her own juices and vibrating with desperate urgency. 

His hand fisting in her hair, he brought her head back to whisper in her ear. “I’m going to fuck you now, Diane.” His fingers of his free hand shoved deep into her pussy, stretching and twisting until Diane’s hips began to twitch. “Now, bend all the way over. Let me see that beautiful ass of yours.” 

Diane bent, arching her back so her ass pushed upwards. 

“Hold onto the table, my sweet. This is going to be a rocky ride.” 

Her breath caught in her throat as his words throbbed all around her. His hands began to caress her ass cheeks again, parting the globes of flesh so that the cool air bathed her crease. And then she felt his finger pushing into her ass, shoving deep. 

“Yes,” she whispered, her hips rocking. 

“I want to fuck you here.” Alex rotated his finger. 

“You’re so big,” Diane panted. 

He inserted another finger alongside the first one. “I’ll be careful. I just need to feel your tightness wrapped around my cock.” 

She heard him unbuckle his pants and the belt buckle clinked as it dropped to the floor. His cock nudged her ass and she shook with restrained desire. 

She’d never been fucked in the ass before. Sam had always wanted to, but the thought had repulsed her. In fact, fucking Sam had repulsed her but this time was 

different. This time, she was hungry for the thick length of Alex’s cock, desperately wanted to feel it pulsing into her ass. 

Alex rubbed his cock between her legs and Diane clenched her legs, loving the feel of his taut skin and the smooth tip as he worried her clit. Her hands gripped the edges of the polished table until her knuckles whitened. Alex kept up the steady pressure against her clit, gliding and rubbing the head of his cock over that sensitive flesh until her world began to spin out of control. 

Screaming, her face buried against the polished oak, she came, throbbing and moaning with the pleasure and while still in the throes, she felt Alex’s hands on her ass, parting her cheeks. He guided his cock in between those globes, using her own moisture to coat the hole. 

He began to ease into her, stretching her, filling her. 

Diane clenched her teeth against the pinch and rocked backwards, relaxing her muscles. The invasion felt strange, but not unwelcome, just a different kind of fullness. 

Once fully in, Alex stilled, his hands resting on her ass. “Am I hurting you?” 

She heard the tightness of his voice, his hold on self-control slipping. Her head shook. “No. It feels different, but I’m not hurting.” 

He moved his hands to her hips. “I need to move. You’re so tight. I can’t wait any longer.” 

Diane braced herself and nodded her head, issuing silent permission. 

His cock seemed to swell within her, stretching her skin to its limits and Alex began 

to drive into her, slowly and then with increasing momentum. 

“Oh, yeah. Oh, yeah,” he chanted as the thrusts became more vigorous. 

Diane absorbed the sensations, taking in the penetration, the feel of Alex’s hands on her hips and the driving force of his cock deep within her. And she realized at that exact moment that she loved him. She gave herself to him completely, fully and had never loved like this before. 

“Ohhhh. Yeahhhhh.” Alex came on a long shudder, giving a few more pumps before leaning forward to rest his chest against her back. 

Tears filled her eyes and she quickly blinked them way. 

“Are you okay?” His breath brushed her hair. 

“I’m fine.” 

He kissed her shoulder and her neck before withdrawing from her. Diane turned around and smiled at him, hoping he wouldn’t notice the moisture still lingering in her eyes. 

He stood up straight and grasped her hips, pulling her forward. “Do you have any idea what you do to me, Diane O’Hara?” 

She looked into those deep, blue eyes and swallowed hard. “Probably the same thing you do to me.” 

His hand dropped between her thighs. “I don’t believe you had a sufficient release.” 

With a chuckle, she buried her head against his shoulder. “Now that’s something a woman doesn’t hear every day.” 

The tip of his index finger began to rub her clit. “I certainly hope this woman doesn’t.” The possessiveness in his voice made her heart clench. 

“She doesn’t.” 

Satisfied, he rotated his finger harder and faster against her clit until Diane’s breath snagged in her throat and she clutched at his arms. 

“I’m close.” She arched her back as a further warning. 

“Excellent,” he murmured in her ear, increasing the pressure until Diane splintered in his arms, coming on a rush of fluid and several, mewling cries. She sank against him, allowing him to keep her aloft. He brushed a kiss against her hair and withdrew his hand. 

“After this, I have worked up quite an appetite.” 

Diane tapped his cheek with her fingertips. “I think I’ve finally figured out that you’re always hungry.” 

“Englishmen have very different appetites, my darling, and we’re less restrained when it comes to sex.” 

Her eyebrows rose. “That I’ve already discovered.” 

He slapped her ass. “Are you complaining?” 

She stood on tiptoe to kiss him. “Did it sound like I was complaining?” 

Chapter Seven 

Diane turned down the comforter on the bed, keeping her back to Alex. She felt his eyes on her as she moved about the bedroom and guilt settled in the pit of her stomach like a lead balloon. She didn’t know what she’d been thinking these past two days. An affair she could have, a relationship, she could not. Before he could ask what was wrong, she broke the silence. 

“This is too good to be true. What am I doing?” He came to stand behind her, large, warm and steady. Was it any wonder she’d fallen in love with him? His hands grasped her shoulders and began to massage her tight muscles. “You are allowing yourself to be a woman. Is that so wrong in your world?” “My mother is going to dig into your past, Alex. She’s probably already looking right now.” She turned in his arms, desperation making her voice go up an octave. “You only got a small sample of what she’s like, Alex, and you certainly don’t know what she’s capable of. If I leave here, the last thing you need is trouble with my mother.” He kissed the tip of her nose, clearly ignoring her last sentence. “Dearest, I came over two hundred years to get to you. Do you really think I’m going to let your mother drive me away?” Diane’s teeth worried her lower lip. She hadn’t really thought of it like that. As his arms went around her, she wondered if Alex really was strong enough to stand up to Sandra Morgan. She’d taken down stronger men and never batted an eye. Alex squeezed his arms around her. “I’m not going anywhere, Diane, and I’m certainly not going to let some harridan drive me away.” “My mother isn’t just any harridan, Alex. She’s queen of them all.” * * * * * 

Sandra didn’t waste time with greetings as she barged into Diane’s house at midnight. “The man you’re seeing doesn’t exist.” 

Diane tied the sash of her robe and closed the door. “Mother, do you know what time it is? Isn’t this something that could have waited until…oh… I don’t know…the light of day?” 

“Do you think me a fool?” Sandra demanded, stalking across the floor in three-inch heels. It never ceased to amaze Diane how her mother could look just as coiffed at midnight as she did at nine in the morning. 

“I decided it was high time I found out about this…this…Alexander Heath.” She dropped her purse to the sofa, her words capturing Diane’s attention. “And quite simply, he doesn’t exist.” 

Nausea hit Diane full force and her head began to throb. She’d warned Alex but she hadn’t expected her mother to glean information so quickly. “Alex does exist, Mother. He’s perfectly real.” She should know. He was sleeping in her bed at that exact moment. 

Sandra shook her head and the light reflected off diamond earrings set amidst a circle of emeralds. “He’s an imposter, Diane. The private investigator I hired couldn’t find one single bit of information about him, not even proof of how he arrived in the city! Now, tell me you don’t see why your father and I have been so concerned.” Working herself into a full lather, she continued. “This man you’ve been seeing,” she wrinkled her nose at the word, “could be anything from a con artist to a criminal.” 

“Well, whatever he is, right now, he’s asleep so this conversation really isn’t going anywhere.” Diane responded on a tired sigh. 

Sandra’s eyes widened to dinner plates. “That’s all you have to say after what I’ve just told you? You don’t even know him, Diane! What are you thinking?” 

Diane yawned and rubbed the back of her neck, squinting at the clock over the mantel. “Right now I’m thinking it’s after midnight and I don’t want to talk about this. You’ve already made yourself perfectly clear.” She shuffled toward the stairs. 

“Furthermore, I have no idea why you thought this was so imperative to tell me at this hour. You’re a master on the telephone, Mother. Remember that next time.” 

Sandra lifted her purse. “I couldn’t sleep knowing this and I’m surprised you’re not throwing him out of your house this instant. Alexander Heath is, at the very least, a conniver.” 

“Well, then, he’s very good at his job.” 

Sandra sucked in a horrified breath. “Diane, this is no time to be glib! You have a stranger in your bedroom and I will not have this!” 

Diane’s feet stilled. “What do you really want, Mother, because we both know that you don’t want to raise Jake and Amy. That was just a trump card you played to convince me to do what you want me to do. So tell me. Is this all really just about Alex 

or is there something more?” 

“I want you to get rid of this degenerate you have in your bedroom first of all.” 

“That’s not possible,” came a deep voice from the end of the hallway. 

Sandra whipped around in time to see Alex stroll into the den, pajama pants riding low on his lean hips. Her mouth worked and for once, she was at a loss for words. 

But Alex wasn’t. He walked to Diane’s side and curved his arm around her waist. “Mrs. Morgan, I’m surprised to see you here at this hour of the evening.” 

“I have every right to be here. You are the imposter.” 

Alex’s muscles tensed. “Perhaps you would like to explain your choice of words. I have not nor have I ever been an imposter.” His tone made the comment much more than a suggestion. 

Sandra bristled just as Diane suspected. “I don’t have to explain myself to a-a-conniving vagabond who is after my daughter’s money!” 

“Money?” Diane gave a brittle laugh. “So that’s what you’re concerned about? I might have known. Your reputation and your money are the two most important things in the world to you.” 

Sandra’s gasp was the only sound to break the silence for the next few seconds which was quickly followed by her spluttered, “How dare you talk to me that way! Because of me and your father, you had a wonderful husband, a good marriage and two beautiful children and now you stand there criticizing me for trying to help my own daughter!” The final words ended on a screech. 

“First, let me correct you on a few things, Mother. My marriage was anything but good and Sam wasn’t as wonderful as you thought he was,” Diane responded with all the bitterness she felt in her heart. It was about time her mother learned the truth about her beloved son-in-law. “The day he died, he was with his mistress and she was the last in a long line of lovers. Apparently, Sam didn’t believe in monogamy.”” 

The blood draining from her face, Sandra grasped the back of the couch, swaying on her feet. Alex took hold of her arm but she shrieked and pulled back. “Don’t touch me! I don’t know how you’ve poisoned my daughter’s mind against her husband, but,” she wagged a finger in his face, ”I will not stand by and watch you destroy her life or the lives of my grandchildren.” 

Alex’s hands dropped to his side. “Then we have a problem. Especially since I have every intention of asking your daughter to marry me.” * * * * * “I can’t marry you,” Diane blasted the second Sandra rushed out the door, foaming out the mouth with promises of retribution. 

Alex looked at her blankly. “Why not? As you know, I come from a respectable family. Though I recently lost employment, I will gain another job and I can take care of you and the children.” He ticked the positives off on his fingers. 

Diane held up her hand. “That has nothing to do with it! You’re from another century! You can’t even drive yet and you’re talking about marriage.” She whipped her hands through her tangled hair. “Alex, it wouldn’t work. We’re too different.” Desperation made her reach for anything to change his mind. “You’re not used to this century, the way things work. I was never supposed to fall in love with you.” 

He studied her for a long moment. “Why not? Do you not think I fell in love with you also?” 

“See?” She practically screamed. “That’s what I’m talking about.” 

A frown lowered his brows. “I’m afraid I don’t see. In fact, I don’t understand what you’re talking about at all. Perhaps you could explain.” 

His calm demeanor enraged her and she couldn’t explain why. She stormed past him en route back to her bedroom. “You want things to be logical and as simple as they were in your time and they aren’t.” 

Heavy footsteps followed her. “I still do not understand, Diane.” He captured her arm and stilled her pacing. “Why can you not marry me?” 

A sob broke from her throat. “I’ve already told you. I’m in love with you.” 

He tipped his head to one side and his eyes caressed her face. “Is that not the reason for marriage?” 

She broke away from him. “It’s different for me.” Her hands shook. “I can’t marry you. I can’t get married again.” Good God! She was going to fall apart any second-right in front of him. Her lungs constricted, making it difficult to breathe. 

“Why?” He was forcing the issue. 

Panic made her shout. “Because I made a mistake the first time! I won’t make that same one again!” 

“I am not Sam.” He made the announcement as if it were as simple as backing out of the driveway. He wasn’t her husband. End of story. 

Diane threw her hands up in the air. “It doesn’t matter! I won’t put my children through that again.” 

Alex studied her for a long time before finally replying. “In my time, when a woman refuses a man’s proposal of marriage, it has more to do with him than any other excuse.” A long silence followed. “Do you really love me, Diane?” 

Her heart slammed within her chest and she wondered if she could tell him she didn’t really, that she had no feelings for him other than attraction. But then she looked into his eyes and saw the demand, the need, and she could only tell the truth. 

“Yes, I love you, Alex, but sometimes, love just isn’t enough.” 

“I have never known that to be true.” 

“Look, let’s talk about this later. For now, I want to go back to sleep and pretend my mother never saw any of this.” She climbed between the sheets. “And if you’re smart, you’ll do the same. It’s your balls she wants on a stick.” Alex chuckled. “Your vernacular never fails to amuse me.” Diane brought the comforter up to her ear as she rolled to her side. “And he thinks I’m kidding.” * * * * * 

Alexander opened the front door the next morning to find Sandra Morgan standing there with her hand raised as if to knock. Dressed smartly in a blue skirt and heels, she wore her graying dark hair swept up off her head and dainty earbobs in her ears which Alexander had never fancied on women. In his time, only trollops wore such adornment. 

“Mrs. Morgan,” he greeted her politely though he would have much preferred an ungentlemanly response to her presence. 

Sandra eyed him coldly. “Is there some place we could go to talk in private?” 

He glanced over his shoulder to make sure Diane hadn’t heard. “I shall take the paper to Diane and return momentarily.” 

Sandra reached out and snatched hold of his arm. “Forget about the paper. What I have to say will only take a few minutes. I’m sure my daughter won’t miss you for that long.” 

Alexander lifted his shoulders in a careless shrug. “As you wish.” He read the light of battle in the older woman’s eyes but her anger didn’t concern him. There was 

little she could do to harm him and he wouldn’t allow her to hurt Diane. In his mind, the decision had already been made. 

Sandra marched ahead of him, her back stiff and her head held aloft, much like the pompous mothers in his century, Alexander mused with a wry grin behind her back. 

Once they’d rounded the corner of the house and approached the back garden, Sandra stopped near a copse of bushes. The overcast sky cast a gray pallor to her skin which only added to the coldness of her face. 

“I want you to stay away from my daughter,” Sandra began without preamble. 

Alexander came to stand next to her. “This is not what I would call a private place, Mrs. Morgan. I believe Diane does have neighbors. Perhaps you would feel more comfortable shouting your demands in the middle of a crowded room.” 

Her lips thinned. “Don’t you get smart with me, young man.” She waggled a finger as a further warning. “I know all about men like you. You sweep into a woman’s life when she’s most vulnerable and you promise her love and happiness ever after. Then after she falls in love you disappear.” 

Alexander had heard of such tomfoolery in England but he’d never been accused of such nonsense. Of course, he’d had more than one dalliance in his time but all were consenting ladies who knew love was not part of the bargain. 

To his knowledge, he’d never broken one heart in his entire life. He’d never stayed long enough for any woman to fall in love with him and he’d certainly never returned any such feelings. 

“So maybe you’re not after money,” Sandra continued, “but I have no doubt you 

are with my daughter for some nefarious reason.” 

“Is it really so impossible for you to believe I am with Diane because I love her?” 

Sandra looked at him for a long moment before laughing in his face. “You must think I’m some kind of an idiot, Mr. Heath. Morgan women do not marry for love. They marry for the benefit of their futures.” 

As Sandra Morgan’s words sank in, Alexander turned on his heel and began to walk across the grass and back toward the front of the townhouse. 

“Don’t you walk away from me!” she screamed after him. 

He continued on his journey, the conversation over as far as he was concerned. Though it would be considered the epitome of bad manners in his day to turn his back on a lady, he didn’t consider Sandra Morgan a lady. And he would not stay while she continued her diatribe against her own flesh and blood. 

“You have not heard the last of me, Alexander Heath!” He didn’t take the warning lightly but he had no intention of allowing Sandra Morgan to interfere in the rest of her daughter’s life. * * * * * Diane met him at the front door, knowing without even seeing his face that 

something was wrong. “Who were you talking to out there?” 

“Your mother.” 

Her shoulders slumped and she turned away, walking back toward the kitchen. “Alex, I’ve made a decision.” 

“Presumably the same one you made last night? You intend to leave your home and take your children away from your parents.” 

He said it so calmly as if he were discussing the latest football statistics rather than uprooting her entire family. “Yes. I am leaving. I’m just not sure where we’re going to go yet but I just got off the phone with Elsie—that’s Sam’s mother—and she and Wayne, her husband, are going to keep traveling for a bit until I’ve decided exactly what I’m going to do. They’ve never really liked my parents so Elsie was actually quite excited at the thought of this subterfuge.” 

Rubbing her hands together, she allowed her gaze to search the room, taking in the painted walls with family pictures and expensive portraits. She thought she might miss 

the house but deep down inside, she knew she’d be happy anywhere as long as she was with her children. 

Alex surprised her by taking hold of her elbow. “Diane, perhaps now is a good time for us to talk.” 

“We’ve tried doing that. It always leads to sex.” 

His lips curled into a smile. “I’ll make much more of an effort this time to make sure that it doesn’t. However, after the conversation, I would be more than happy to oblige you.” 

Diane wanted to roll her eyes at him but in truth, she’d had that same thought. “So what is it you want to talk about?” She sat down behind the café table and tried to shut out the images racing through her mind—hot, sweaty, indecent images of Alex standing behind her, ramming his thick cock into her ass while her breasts bobbed against the table. 

“You are not listening, my lady.” 

His voice made her jump. Crossing her legs to ease the ache between her thighs, Diane tipped her head back with a small smile. “Of course, I am.” 

He sat down across from her and his presence dwarfed the small alcove. “I discovered this in the book Carla sent with me.” Raising up, he tugged a folded envelope from his back pocket and Diane held her breath. 

That was it! The letter she’d seen inside the poetry book. Curiosity made her lean 

closer. “What is it?” 

“It appears to be a deed…to the Castle Heath.” 

Diane’s gaze dropped to the worn piece of paper, scrutinizing every word. “Sinclair 

deeded the property to you upon his death.” 

“There’s another note.” Alexander laid it beside the deed, keeping his hand atop it. “It’s from Carla.” 

Eyes misting, Diane gently removed his hand and lifted the sheet of paper. She caught the fragrance of roses and her smile wobbled. 

The note was simple and succinct. 

Alexander, in case you ever want to return to England, you will always have a home here. Maybe not in this century but here at Castle Heath. Maybe one day you can show my sister where all of this began. Love, Carla. 

Before Diane could speak, Alex had stood and walked around to where she sat. he knelt down beside her. “Diane, do you understand what this means?” 

She gave him a blank stare, trying to comprehend his words. “No. Alex, this is wonderful for you! Carla took care of you.” Her vision grew cloudy from the gathering tears. “Why doesn’t that surprise me?” 

Alex took the note out of her hands and placed it back on the table. “This means much more than Carla taking care of me. She took care of you and your children as well.” He held her hands in his. “You have somewhere to go now.” 

It took a long moment before realization sank in and when it did, Diane snatched her hands away. “What? What are you talking about? I can’t go to England!” 

“Give me one good reason why not?” 

She didn’t have a good reason but she gave him what she thought was one anyway. “Because we live here.” 

“You said you were going to have to get away.” 

Dammit. “But I didn’t say overseas!” 

Alexander got to his feet. “Diane, your sister lived a fulfilling life with my cousin. She had children with him, grew old with him and now the castle stands empty. You should see your sister’s legacy. Come with me. We’ll make a home together in England…away from your mother. Your children would be safe and happy there as well. I can promise you they would love my home.” He leaned down and kissed her cheek. “Just promise me you’ll think about it.”” 

Diane pressed two fingers to her lips and watched him walk away. How could she not think about it? * * * * * 

Alexander sat on the edge of his bed, flipping through the pages of the poetry book. “Carla, you always were the sly one.” Over the past few days, he’d forgotten to even pick up the book but now that he had, he couldn’t stop reading. 

Carla said she knew Diane would never be happy in the city with their mother. She’d wanted Alexander to convince Diane to leave. He smiled as he read the words which Carla had underlined for emphasis. 

I know how convincing you can be, Alex. Use all of the charm you possess to get my sister out of New York. 

“I’m trying, Carla.” 

“You’re talking to my sister?” Diane’s voice brought him to his feet so fast that the poetry book fell to the floor. 

He ran his hands down his denim-covered legs and nodded. He supposed there was something eloquent to say to explain exactly why he’d been talking to a woman who was not in the same room with him but words failed him…especially once Diane started walking toward him. 

She’d taken her hair down and it fell in soft waves against her shoulders and underneath the thin silk blouse she wore, her breasts were unencumbered, the dark areolas visible beneath the white material. 

A long black skirt fell almost to her ankles and whispered when she walked. Clinging to every curve, it emphasized the gentle swell of her hips and Alexander lost all ability to think. He could only stare at her as she closed the distance between them. 

“Alex?” As she reached him, her hand lifted to touch his chest and his heart pounded frantically. 

The sunny fragrance of her hair wafted over him and for a brief moment, he closed his eyes, trying to focus on anything other than the response of his cock to her touch. The sunlight filtered in from the window behind him and captured the glow of her face and all he could think about at that exact moment was kissing her. 

Her hands slid up the wall of his chest and over his shoulders before reaching his neck where her soft palms cooled his heated skin. “You know, Alex, I’ve been thinking.” 

Fascinated, he stared at her tiny, pink tongue as it moistened her full lips. His erection grew stronger. “And what have you been thinking about, my lady?” “I don’t think there would be any harm in the children and I visiting England.” Relief poured through his veins like water and he slipped his arms around her waist. “No harm at all. As a matter of fact, I can promise you complete safety.” “Absolutely no danger then?” Her lips were a whisper away from his. “None.” He ached to kiss her. “Then I don’t know about that. I’ve always like a man with a dangerous streak.” One hand fisted in her hair. “That, I can deliver.” * * * * * 

Two weeks later 

Diane knew she should feel guilty about leaving her mother a note instead of telling her face to face that she and the children were moving to England but the black sedan parked out in front of her house that morning had changed her mind. 

Her mother’s private investigator was back on the job, watching every move they made. So perhaps he’d be the one to tell Sandra Morgan that her only daughter had boarded an airplane for London’s Heathrow Airport less than an hour ago. And she’d left the custody papers on the kitchen table so they would be the first thing Sandra saw when she let herself into Diane’s townhouse. 

Nerves set in once the final decision had been made, but the kids’ enthusiasm helped to cement her decision. Since they’d arrived from Indiana and she’d told them the news, they’d been more excited than she’d seen in a long time. Even Jake was smiling and that was something he hadn’t done in a long time. 

Her heart ached at the thought. She wanted her children to have a chance to start over, to live a different kind of life than what they’d had with Sam and while she wasn’t sure England was their final destination, at least it would help them make the break away from New York. 

Diane clutched Alex’s hand as the airplane touched down. One look at his face told her he had really come home. His eyes lit up and he seemed to come alive. And for a brief moment, her heart sank. This was where he belonged. 

Not in Manhattan. Not even in the twenty-first century. 

He squeezed her hand. “Please do not fret.” 

“What does fret mean?” Four-year-old Amy leaned over the seat in front of Diane’s to peer down at Alex. Since she’d met Alex one week ago, she’d taken to him right away. Diane had never heard her laugh so much and while Jake had been a tougher sell, he had begun to loosen up a little around Alex, which was a start. 

“It means worry,” Alex responded, swiping one finger down the length of Amy’s nose. She giggled and plopped back down into her seat. 

Diane managed a smile. “How far away are we from the castle?” 

“About one hundred kilometers.” 

Diane didn’t even try to calculate that in mileage. The amount of time it would take to reach Alex’s home didn’t really matter. Nerves formed a knot in the center of her stomach. What in the hell had she been thinking? 

* * * * * Alexander met the real estate agent at a small office just a few kilometers away from the airport. A stocky lady with a broad smile and a cockney accent, she handed him the 

keys to the castle while continually gushing about how nice it was to finally meet the rightful owner of Heath Castle. She reassured him everything was in order. 

“Excellent. So should I expect a visit from the solicitor then to finalize the paperwork?” Alex asked as the agent walked him to the door of her office. 

“Possibly, but I wouldn’t think it would be this week. He’ll give you and your lovely family time to settle in first.” 

Alex followed the woman’s gaze to the window where Diane and her children sat in the rented car. She was behind the wheel, her hands holding it so tightly that he could see the tension on her face and for a brief moment, he wondered if he’d done the right thing in asking her to come here. 

But then the agent was talking again, forcing his attention back to the conversation. She gave him a thick stack of papers and pumped his hand in a hearty shake. “It’s so good to meet you, Mr. Heath. Welcome home.” 

As Alex stepped outside, he breathed in the refreshing air. The peace seemed to surround him. No loud noises filled his ears. No cars rushed by in a frantic race to get to their destination and the sunshine was bright in a cloudless, blue sky. 

He’d forgotten how perfect England was. Then his gaze drifted toward Diane and he found her watching him. Giving her a wink for reassurance, he started walking toward the car. 

There would be plenty of time to relive the memories of his homeland. For now, he wanted to take Diane home. * * * * * 

By the time Alex’s brief conversation with the real estate agent was over, Diane’s nerves had taken a backseat to nausea. Her mind kept repeating the refrain. What had she been thinking? She’d uprooted the children and taken them thousands of miles away from their home and friends and— 

“Diane,” Alex interrupted her panicked thoughts. “We’re here.” 

The ride to the castle had flown by and now, as she stepped out of the car, she took in the sheer magnificence of Castle Heath, a monstrous stone structure with turrets and moats which made Jake squeal with glee. 

“Look, Mom, it has a drawbridge!” He raced across the vivid green grass. 

“Jake, wait!” 

Alex placed his hand on her arm. “He will not come to any harm. As far as you can see, this land belonged to Sinclair. No one would trespass without his permission.” 

Diane didn’t think it would do any good to remind him that Sinclair wasn’t here any longer. Instead, she kept her watchful eyes glued to her son’s retreating back. 

Alex lifted Amy into his arms and jostled her against his hip. “Ready to see my 

home, little one?” 

Amy bobbed her head, her eyes glittering like tiny, blue diamonds. 

The massive oak door swung open on silent hinges and as Diane’s eyes adjusted to the dim lighting, her mouth fell open. Jake and Amy stood in the center of the red carpet runner while centuries fell away. 

Images of ladies dancing in opulent ball gowns across the imported carpets filled her mind. She saw the gleaming chandeliers, the gas lamps lining the walls and rows and rows of fine china, hand-painted portraits of Alex’s ancestors and multi-colored tapestries bearing England’s crest. 

This was Alex’s home, the richness, the wealth and the history. Swallowing hard, she advanced into the dining hall and into the picture of an historical dinner where gold-gilded soup tureens, wine goblets and polished silver took center stage. Men dressed in their finest waistcoats and women in figure-hugging gowns swept in front of her eyes as she slid her hand along the rectangular dining room table. 

“You lived here,” she whispered when she sensed Alex standing behind her. 

“Actually, Sinclair and Carla lived here. This castle is one of many in my family.” He walked to stand beside her. “Would you like to see their bedroom?” 

She nodded, a lump forming in her throat. As Alex turned, she clutched at his arm. “But wait. There’s something else I want to see first. Are they…would they be here?” 

He nodded once. “We have a family cemetery on the land. It’s not far away.” 

“I’d like to go.” 

Alex called the children to his side and taking hold of Diane’s arm, led her down the long hallway toward the back entrance of the castle. 

“Where are we going?” Jake demanded. 

“There’s something your mother needs to see.” 

“What is it?” Amy’s childish voice was filled with a mixture of curiosity and sleepiness. The time change had exhausted her. 

Alex picked her back up and carried her out into the vibrant air. “It’s not something you and Jake are going to want to see, so why don’t the two of you stay right here and play?” He lowered her to a fresh bed of green grass. “Your mother and I will be right over there.” One finger pointed toward two wrought iron gates. “Jake, please stay with your sister.” 

“But I want to see, too,” he protested. As Alex knelt in front of her son to talk to him like a father would, a lump formed in Diane’s throat. Already he was acting like the children were his. He’d make a good father. The thought brought a flush to her cheeks and she quickly turned away, beginning the short walk across the flowing grasses to another side of the world. * * * * * Beyond the graves stood an old, massive church with a tall spire that reached up to the sky. The plots were well tended with fresh flowers and dust-free tombstones. Diane couldn’t suppress the shiver that crawled down her spine as she continued through the gate with Alex. “Who takes care of this place?” 

“I would imagine the church employs a groundskeeper. They did in my time.” The gate clanged shut behind them and Alexander held out his hand. “Are you sure you’re ready to see this?” 

Diane bit her lower lip but nodded bravely. “I think it’s time. Don’t you?” 

“That’s a decision that only you can make but I know you can do anything you put your mind to. If you think now is the right time, then now is the right time. And I’m right beside you.” 

She squeezed his hand and standing on tiptoe, brushed his lips with hers. “I’m glad you’re here.” 

“Where else would I be?” He proceeded to walk past the mounds of freshly dug dirt to the far corner of the graveyard, stopping in front of a row of graves. 

The tombstones were worn with age but still standing straight. The writing was 

illegible on some but not on the ones Diane wanted to see. 

Alexander pulled her into the circle of her arms. “There they are.” 

Diane’s gaze dropped to the two headstones that had been joined to form one large 

tombstone. Pulling free of Alex’s embrace, she knelt in the dirt to read the inscriptions. 

Sinclair, Duke of Heath and his beloved wife, Carla, two lives joined as one. They lived together, loved together and destiny allowed them to die together. They were never alone. 

With tears clouding her vision, she leaned closer to see the date. “1868. They had a long life together.” 

Alexander knelt down beside her, resting his hand atop the cold marble. “That they did and they lived life to the fullest. Take a look.” He lifted one finger to point further down the row. “Those are their children and their families, their children’s children and so forth.” 

Tears clogged Diane’s throat and she gripped his hand tightly. “How many kids did they have?” 

Alexander’s lips curled into a smile. “I don’t want to spoil the surprise.” 

Diane gave him a quizzical look. “I don’t understand.” 

“Just in case we’re being watched.” 

Diane spun around and searched the area directly behind them. “You think someone’s watching us? I don’t see anyone. Did you hear something?” 

He chuckled and caught her arm to pull her to her feet. “There’s no one behind us, 

Diane, but someone is watching us.” 

“Okay, now you’re not making sense. Who is watching us?” 

Alexander tipped his face to the sky. “Your sister.” 

Diane wiped the dirt from the knees of her jeans and bumped his shoulder with hers. “That’s not funny. We’re standing right in front of Carla’s grave.” 

“In our time, yes, but in her time, she’s alive and well and my guess is that she has that damned book of poetry right now…the same one that allowed me to come to you. Am I right, Carla?” His grin broadened. Suddenly, he laughed aloud and snatching Diane around the waist, he spun her around. “Did you feel that?” 

Diane clutched his shoulders and eyed him strangely. “No, I didn’t feel anything.” She glanced over her shoulder to check on the children. They were happily playing a game of tag. It all felt so surreal. Was she losing her mind? “Alex, what’s going on? Are you telling me you can hear my sister?” Panic laced her voice. 

Alex took hold of her shoulders. “Just stand still. Come on, Carla, do it again.” The wind around them stirred, lifting the strands of Diane’s hair and blowing them across her shoulders. “Just as I suspected. She is watching us.” 

Catching the wave of excitement, Diane tilted her own face to the sky. “Are you really there, Carla?” The slight breeze swept over her cheeks, caressing them with a swift touch of air. 

“Oh my God! She is here. You can hear me?” The tears ran in rivulets down her cheeks. All at once, the memories came flooding back, everything from childhood to the lives they’d shared as adults. 

In information overload, Diane spun around in a circle, her arms held wide. “Carla, I didn’t even realize how much I’ve missed you until now. You’re so happy. I can feel it. You’re in love and you’ve found a life that you’ve always wanted. Thank you. Thank you for telling me.” 

She cast a glance at the tall man standing at her side. “So have I. Listen,” she scrubbed her face with her hands, “I don’t want you to worry about me. I’m doing okay. I don’t know if you know, but Sam’s dead. He was killed in a car accident.” She gave Alex a self-conscious smile. “I can’t believe I’m talking to the air.” 

Alex hooked an arm around her waist. “You’re not. You’re talking to your sister.” 

The trees rustled with the increasing wind. “She’s happy,” Diane beamed up at Alex, her hand resting on his arm. “Did you see the trees?” 

He tugged her closer to his side. “I felt it.” 

“Could I…” She gave him a hesitant smile. “I’m sorry. Could I have a moment alone with her? It’s been a while.” 

Alex acquiesced with a gentle smile and a touch of his finger to her nose. He walked toward the end of the row, giving her ample distance between them. 

“I just wanted to say thank you, Carla, for sending Alex here. Don’t get me wrong. I did want you to come back, but,” her voice broke, “you’ve given me so much in Alex. I love him and he loves me. It all happened so fast but maybe that’s the way love is meant to happen.” 

She brushed the tears away from her cheeks. A lump of emotion blocked her airway, causing her to stop to clear her throat, “I never thought I could love like this. I suppose that’s what you feel for Sinclair, isn’t it? Alex has told me a lot about him and your life with him. Not as much as I’d like to know but I’m sure that will come in time.” 

“You’re a duchess now. Mother would be so jealous. She’s always claimed royal blood but she never had any proof to back it up.” A giggle broke from her lips and she clamped her hand against her mouth to still it. 

As the air around her stirred with her sister’s presence, Diane continued. “I do wish you could be here. I wish I could tell you that the children, well, never mind. I’m sure you know that no one even knows you were alive here but Alex and me. And now that I remember everything, I won’t ever forget you.” 

Leaning her head farther back, she winked up at the sky. “And who knows? Maybe I’ll be a duchess too one day. Or is Alex a Duke? I don’t know. I’ve never asked him but I know he has royal blood in his veins. Does that count?” 

She gave a little laugh. “Oh, listen to me. It doesn’t matter. All that matters is that you’re happy and I’m happy and we each have our own lives chock full of love and laughter. I will always miss you, Carl, but you belong right where you are. Don’t you dare regret the choice you made not even for one second.” 

The wind stilled and Diane knew she was alone once more. She lowered her head and gave the tears free rein. 

Alex returned to her side on silent footsteps. With barely a whisper of sound, he pulled her into his arms, holding her head against his shoulder, allowing her pain and grief to blend against the material of his cotton shirt. “I’m sorry. I wish I could make this easier for you.” 

“No.” Diane lifted her head, sniffling lightly, “I wouldn’t have missed this for the world, Alex. I asked to come here because I needed to see for myself that Carla had a happy life. And for a few minutes, I had my sister back and now I know.” 

“You know what?” 

“That she’s happy. I know you told me but it didn’t sink in until I heard it for myself. She found here what she could have never found in our world.” Diane’s heart ached but only because of the loss she now felt. 

Diane became silent for one long minute, allowing the gentleness of the breeze to blow away the remnants of her unhappy life with Sam. 

Here she could start over…with Alex and the children. Pulling in a deep breath, she blinked back the sheen of tears in her eyes. “Alex?” 

“Hmm?” One hand stroked the small of her back. 

“I really do love you.” She cupped his face. “And now I’m free and ready to see your England.” 

He gave a light laugh and took her arm. “Actually, I don’t think it’s my England anymore.” His forehead bumped against hers. “A lot of things have changed in over one hundred years it seems.” His voice carried a rueful edge. 

Diane laughed aloud, hope swelling in her heart, while she tugged him toward the entrance of the gate. “Then we’ll just have to make it our England.” 

He stopped walking, forcing Diane to come to a halt as well. She turned to face him again and the wind ruffled his hair, the sun darkening the blue of his eyes. “Do you want to stay here, Diane? We could make a life in England.” He reached out for her, pulling her close, heartbeat pressed to heartbeat. “Marry me and let me make you happy as your sister was. 

Diane looked toward the marble tombstone which bore her sister’s name and then 

back to Alex’s face. One look into his eyes and the choice was already made. 

“Yes. I’ll marry you.” 

As they walked through the gate, the wind stirred again and Diane knew she had 

her sister’s approval. But then Carla had known all along that Alex was the man Diane needed. 

That was exactly why she’d sent him to the twenty-first century. 

Epilogue 

Ten years later 

Diane sat on the floor of the castle keep, surrounded by dusty pieces of parchment crinkled with age. The sun barely shone in through the lone window above her but she didn’t need the light to know what was on those letters. 

Carla’s words—written to Diane as the years unfolded before her. She spoke often of Rowan, their son who had grown to be a handsome young man with an eye for the ladies and a wandering lust much like his Uncle Alexander. 

And then there was Hannah, their beautiful, vivacious daughter who’d grown up to become a saucy lady with men swarming at her heels. Just like her mother, she was fiercely independent and strong-willed. Fortunately, she’d found her Mr. Right in the nineteenth century. 

Wiping a tear from her eye, Diane held the letters close to her heart and raised her eyes to the thin ran of sunlight streaming across the concrete floor. 

She’d found the letters days before and hadn’t been able to spend much time away from them. Alex had suggested she bring them downstairs into the main living quarters but for some reason, that just didn’t feel right. This was her own secret space she could share with Carla. 

Carla had written her each week, detailing her life with Sinclair, the children they’d had together , and the love which had enveloped them. 

Footsteps sounded on the stone stairs but Diane didn’t turn to acknowledge them. She was lost in another century, picturing her sister twirling across a dance floor dressed in the finest of silks while her children danced around her. 

“Diane?” 

She smiled and lowered the letters. “Yes, Alex?” 

“You’ve been up here a while. The children are asking about you.” Moving forward, Alex placed a gentle hand on her shoulder. 

She tipped her head back to see his face. “Thank you.” 

He arched an eyebrow. “For what?” 

“For these past ten years, for the life you’ve given me and for your love.” 

Alex dropped to his knees in front of her. Leaning forward, he tucked a strand of loose hair behind her ear. “You needn’t thank me for that, my love. In fact, it is I who should be thanking you.” 

Diane shook her head and returned the letters to the leather trunk where she stored them. “Carla had a happy life and she wanted me to have the same.” Her face was wet with tears as she fixed her gaze on her husband’s face. “That’s why she allowed you to come to the twenty-first century.” 

“Allowed?” A frown marred Alex’s perfect features. “I’d like to think I had a say so in my own life, my lady.” 

The words still made her shiver—the inflection in his voice as he called her his lady. “Where are the kids?” Along with Jake and Amy, they had added two more children to their family—eight-year-old Braeden and five-year-old Daniel, and their lives couldn’t be any fuller. Or happier, though, at times, she still wondered if Alex missed his century. 

Alex scooted closer to her so his palm could cup her face. “They’re downstairs watching television.” 

Diane has insisted on upgrading the castle with modern technology and miraculously, Alex hadn’t protested…too much, anyway. She smiled and leaned into his touch. “Were they really asking about me?” 

“You think I would lie to my own wife?” 

“I think you had a nefarious idea in mind when you came up here.” 

A wicked grin spread across Alex’s face. “Ah, my lady knows me too well.” His head dipped and his lips lightly grazed hers. “But as much as I would like to lay with you, duty calls.” 

Diane sighed into his shoulder. “The horses.” 

“The mare will foal soon.” Pride resounded in his voice for these horses were direct descendants of the ones Sinclair had bred. Alexander had scoured the countryside to make sure of the lineage. 

“Sometimes you spend more time with those horses than you do your wife,” she 

teased. 

He jumped to his feet and pulled her up. “I didn’t hear such complaints last night.” 

Blushing, Diane pushed him away. He still had that effect on her. “Go get to work. 

I’ll check on the children and join you in the barn.” 

His eyes lit up. “Dare I hope—? 

“You can hope for nothing unless you get down those stairs. There’s one thing I 

have left to do.” She continued to push him towards the archway. 

“Exactly how long shall I be forced to wait before I will once again enjoy the presence of your company?” Hooking his arm loosely around her waist, he pulled her 

close, pressing her breasts against his side. “After all, it has been—“ 

“Less than an hour,” Diane corrected with a laugh. “And you’re insatiable.” 

Turning her in his arms, he wrapped his arms around her waist. “That I cannot deny for when I am with you, I only want more. More of your touch,” he slid his cheek alongside hers, “more of your scent,” he drew in a deep breath, “and more of you taste.” His lips found hers and Diane sank into his kiss. 

Even after ten years of marriage, sparks ignited. His hard body stirred her, creating havoc beneath her panties. Wet and hungry, she stood on tiptoe to deepen the kiss. 

Growling low in his throat, Alex slipped one hand between their bodies, quickly lowering the zipper on her jeans. After so many years of practice, he’d gotten quite adept at undressing her and Diane couldn’t have been more than relieved. 

Thrusting her hips forward, she welcomed the tip of his index finger as it flicked her clit. Moaning, she grasped hold of his arms and sucked on his lower lip, expressing her appreciation without words. 

She could feel his cock, hard and heavy, beneath the thick fabric of his jeans and though she tried to lower his zipper, he denied her the privilege, pulling back with a shake of his head. 

“No, no, no.” His finger increased the pressure on the most sensitive point of her body. “This one’s for you.” 

Diane couldn’t argue for her muscles were already contracting, the climax building, dragging the breath from her lungs. “Alex. Alex.” 

“That’s it,” he whispered, his lips vibrating against her neck. “Let me feel you, Diane. Let yourself go.” 

As if she had a choice. Heat spiraled from the top of her head, shot through her abdomen, and settled between her thighs. Her legs shook while the spasms gripped her. The orgasm engulfed her and Diane’s head snapped back, her husband’s name escaping her lips on a low, keening wail. 

His finger continued to move while her body jerked and one arm tightened around her, holding her close until she slumped against him. He kissed the top of her head while she drew in deep, gulping breaths of air. 

“Ten minutes.” 

With a chuckle, he pushed back to see her face. “Ten minutes?” 

“I’ll meet you in the barn in ten minutes.” Her knees still shaky, she restored her clothing and stepped away from him. “Now that you’ve started this, I intend to finish it.” 

With a broad grin, he dipped his head. “Well, my lady, I’m afraid I shall have to hold you to your word.” 

Still tingling from the aftereffects of the orgasm, Diane rubbed her palm over his cheek, enjoying the rasp of his unshaven face against her hand. “Don’t worry. I always keep my promises.” Standing on tiptoe, she kissed him again, allowing her lips the luxury of lingering against his. “And I’m looking forward to this one.” 

Alex backed toward the stairs. “I do know how to tell time.” He tapped the face of his wristwatch. “The countdown begins.” 

She laughed and blew him a kiss as if she wouldn’t see him for a year rather than a few minutes. “Just make sure Jake will keep the children occupied for a while. The last thing we want is a repeat of last week.” Having almost been caught with her pants down literally, Diane was still dodging questions from her youngest child. 

“I’ll do it.” Alex turned at the top of the stairs. “Oh, darling?” 

“Yes?” Diane focused her attention on his face and wondered if she’d ever tire of looking at him. The years had been good to him and he was just as handsome today as 

the first day she’d seen him at her front door. 

“Are you listening to me?” he teased with a wave of his hand. 

“I’m sorry. I was just thinking how handsome you are.” 

“Oh, well, then it’s understandable why you might have lost your focus momentarily.” His eyes twinkled. “Do you know how happy you make me?” The softness of his voice almost proved to be her undoing but it was the words which melted her heart. 

How could he have known how much she needed to hear them? It was as if he’d read her mind. Her eyes filled with tears and her lips wobbled. “I love you.” She could barely get the words past her throat. 

Alex winked. “I love you, too. And you’re down to nine minutes.” He tromped down the stairs before she could respond. 

Still smiling, Diane didn’t move for a long moment with her hand over her heart. How fortunate could one woman be? And it was all because of Carla—a woman Diane barely remembered but one who’d transformed her life, giving her the happiness she would never have found on her own. 

Returning to the trunk, she sat down and retrieved the letters. There were so many of them, each telling a different week in Carla’s life with Sinclair and her words had given Diane an idea. 

Placing the tied stack of linen aside, Diane retrieved the pad of stationery she’d tucked away beneath the trunk. Her pen poised above the pad, she began her first letter. She might not be able to share her world with Carla but Diane would have ancestors who would be able to read of her life with Alex and the children. 

But the first letter she wrote would be the most important one of all. 

“Dear Carla…”