Date: 2010-09-15T23:00:00+00:00
Keywords: Kat; cookie429; Extratorrents
Description: When Mia Jones yells at Drake Trent for what he says to her sister, the billionaire is bowled over by the beautiful spit fire. He decides there and then that she will be his mistress, but he has not ever come across a woman like Mia, who not only resists his advances but demands that he leave her alone. Mia Jones has more things on her mind, the last thing she needs is for some rich man to expect her to fall willingly into his bed. However, she needs to keep her job as an exotic dancer, and when her boss, the slimy Jake Brown invites her to his home for a party, she finds herself in the ideal

Special Kindle Edition

The Unwilling Mistress

by

Marie Kelly

This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and incidents are either the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or to actual events or locales is entirely coincidental.

The Unwilling Mistress

Special Kindle Edition

This ebook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This ebook may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each person you share it with. If you’re reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then you should return it and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the hard work of the author.

Copyright © 2011 Marie Kelly. All rights reserved, including the right to reproduce this book, or portions thereof, in any form. No part of this text may be reproduced, transmitted, downloaded, decompiled, reverse engineered, or stored in or introduced into any information storage and retrieval system, in any form or by any means, whether electronic or mechanical without the express written permission of the author. The scanning, uploading, and distribution of this book via the Internet or via any other means without the permission of the publisher is illegal and punishable by law. Please purchase only authorized electronic editions, and do not participate in or encourage electronic piracy of copyrighted materials.

The publisher does not have any control over and does not assume any responsibility for author or third-party websites or their content.

Cover Art :

Copyright © istockphoto/

ePublished and Distributed by: Amazon

Visit the author website:

www.romancemarie.com

Marie Kelly

Other tittles

Blackmailed For The Billionaire’s Pleasure

Captured

Kidnapped The Wrong Sister

My Son

The Billionaire’s Vengeance Victim

Mia

The Wedding Deal

Chapter One

Mia Jones had listened carefully for the small clicks, as she had slowly turned the dial on the safe, the stethoscope in her ear picking up the small noises as she held her breath, completely focussed on hearing the subtle sounds. As the last number had clicked into place she had given a small happy smile hearing the tell tale sound of the mechanism opening. Pulling the torch from her mouth, she had flashed it inside the safe interior, quickly shuffling through the papers contained within it, pushing the rolls of money aside as she hunted. With a small groan she had put the last paper back inside, feeling the heavy sensation of disappointment at not finding what she had hoped would be contained within the small space.

Closing the safe once more Mia had moved back towards the door, her hand reaching for the handle to slip back out of the small shabby office freezing as she had heard the unmistakable sound of Jake Brown, gasping, and feeling the terror fill her, knowing that she was trapped in the small room. Mia had quickly flashed the torch around looking for somewhere to hide feeling as her heart had beaten so hard within her body, her legs feeling like jelly as the fear had gripped her. Seeing the large drapes she had turned quickly, hiding herself within the folds of the voluminous material and turning the torch off just in time as the door had burst open, the light filling the small space.

“I don’t damn well care” she had heard the voice of her employer, hearing the anger in his tone

“But Jakey.........” she had recognised the whiney voice of one of the girls who worked in the club. Theresa was one of Jakes girls, one of those closest to him, and therefore best stayed away from, and Mia had stood as motionless as possible, holding her breathe expecting to be discovered at any time

“No Theresa......your so called friend promised that he could get close to the guy........he failed..........and I want my money back”

She had heard as Theresa had moved closer to Jake, obviously using her charms as she had coo’d softly to him

“I’ll talk to him.........promise....”

Hearing again as he had made a small snort of annoyance, as she had sidled closer to him

“Come on Jakey...........come on back to my flat...........I can make you feel so much better” she had whined in her most sensual voice, making Mia feel sick at the innuendo, praying that Jake felt in the mood for what was on offer, relief flooding her as she had heard the unmistakable sound of the two kissing

“Come home with me” she had heard Theresa repeat as he had given a small laugh, and the sound of the two moving back to the door

“Fine.......you owe me that much bitch” he had said nastily

“But I still want my money back” as the light had once more been flicked off, the room filling with darkness once more, as the door had opened and closed the room again falling silent.

Mia had gripped the wall, her legs feeling so shaky as her stomach churned with how close to discovery she had come. Waiting for several minutes, she had again moved to the door, gently opening it a small crack and listening for any sounds, before silently slipping out of the office and moving quickly down the hallway.

Drake Trent had rang the doorbell of the exclusive flat, sighing softly as he allowed the events of the day to slowly drain away from him hearing as the door was opened by the most stunning brunette. Sophia had smiled warmly at him as she had moved backwards to allow him to enter, her arms moving around his neck as he had quickly stepped forward to pull her in against him, his foot kicking the door closed as he had pushed her up against the wall, his mouth finding hers. Groaning softly he had enjoyed the feel of her lovely body under his hands, as he had allowed his fingers to explore her, rubbing her hardened nipples the desire rising in him.

“God you are such a welcome site after the day I have had”

He had whispered against her ear, as she had purred softly, before pulling herself from his arms

“Darling...........are you planning on seducing me in the hall” she had laughed, her tone holding a hint of disapproval as he had laughed

“mmmmm now that does have some appeal” he had chuckled, as she had thrown him a small smile moving further into the flat

“Well let me get you a drink first, put some music on” she had breathed softly moving into the kitchen as he had moved into the luxurious living room. Pulling off his jacket and throwing it over one of the leather chairs he had selected a CD and heard as the soft music had filled the room, wandering around to her computer, his mind still full of many of the negotiations he had been working on that day. Frowning he wondered why when he had been looking forward to that night so much, he was still not able to put his work behind him, his eyes falling on the open letter by the machine, his eyes absently scanning the words. As he had read the contents, his body had stiffened disbelief filling him as he had lifted the letter reading the contents more thoroughly.

As Sophia had moved into the room, two drinks held in her small hand, she had stopped the smile on her lovely face dropping from her eyes and mouth. Carefully she had put down the drinks, quickly moving to try and retrieve the letter from his hands, a nervous laugh leaving her

“Ignore that darling............boring business” she had laughed nervously as he had moved it out of her reach

“Really” had been his only answer, his eyes now dark daggers of accusation

“Care to explain what kind of business”

Sophia had moved backwards, her hands wringing nervously in front of herself

“It is nothing Drake.............please just put it down”

He however was shaking his head with disbelief

“What was the one rule Sophia” his voice had bitten out

“Your connection with me was never to be used for your own gain”

Sophia had pouted softly, her eyes looking at him with hurt as she had tried to move against him so seductively

“It is nothing darling.............just one little thing.........it means nothing”.

She had managed to wrap her arms around his waist, her cheek rubbing gently against his as she had purred softly

“Let's go to bed Drake”

Her mouth gently kissing the corner of his

“Let’s talk about it tomorrow” she had said gently in her most seductive voice, her fingers sliding against him, surprised as he had pulled her hands from him standing away from her

“No............one rule”

He had repeated, his voice full of the anger he felt

“How many other deals have you been making Sophia?”

Moving to the chair as he had grabbed his jacket, angrily pulling it back on, as she had watched him in disbelief

“Wh....what are you doing” she had demanded, her lovely eyes cold seeing as he had moved from the room

“You knew the rules..............we are over” he had bit out hearing the intake of breathe from the woman behind him, as she had tried to catch up with him, her whole demeanour pleading

“Please Drake............it will never happen again” she had cried, her voice full of the panic in her face

“I promise”

He had stopped at that, looking down at the gorgeous woman before him, his eyes full of contempt

“I don’t think so.............you will understand if I find it hard to believe a damn word you say”

Turning around and pulling the door open again, hearing as she had began to cry behind him, her voice calling after him as he had strode with determination from the flat.

Once more back in his car Drake had sat silently for a few moments allowing the anger to slowly drain from him. With a sigh he had flexed his long back in the driving seat, feeling how his whole body had felt heavy with the tiredness which was slowly filling him.

He had planned on spending the night with Sophia who he had only met the previous month at a cocktail party, looking forward to some much needed rest and relaxation. With a sigh, he realised that he had been so hard on her because he was already bored with her having found her not to be the person he originally thought her to be. Her initial veneer of sweetness and fun had quickly disappeared as she had felt that she was reeling him in closer and closer to her, letting him see the scheming ruthless side to her character, and while using his name to gain more work for herself violated his main rule with his mistresses, he had realised that it was an ideal opportunity to break off the relationship between them. With a small frown he wondered how the press would report yet another break up in such a short time knowing that he was fast gaining a reputation as a womaniser with a very short attention span for women

Being so tired, he had known that he should have booked himself into a suite in one of the many five star hotels which littered the capitol, perhaps even one of his own he had thought with a small smile, but he had wanted to get home for the week-end. The thought of relaxing, after the disappointment of the night, making him start his top of the range jaguar and head for home. However, after having only driven a short distance he could feel his eyes becoming heavy and Drake Trent was not a fool, he knew that he needed coffee and a break, so he had pulled into the car park of a small pretty pub smiling at the old “horse and hound” sign which hung over the unpretentious doorway of the old stone building

Standing stiffly at the entrance of the local pub, Drakes eyes had scanned the area as his tall 6.2 frame had made the door seem small. Dark haired and incredibly handsome with a long lean muscular body he was already turning heads from those in the area and moving further into the bar, which also claimed to be a bed and breakfast he had been surprised at just how homely the place looked.

While not exactly crowded, the place was fairly busy, with couples as well as some who appeared to be on their own. The atmosphere was friendly with people chatting happily to each other, and to other couples beside them. His spirits had lightened a little by the warmth of the place as he had moved over to the bar where one woman seemed to be doing all of the work.

Of medium height with long blonde hair pulled back to fall down her slender body she had moved over to greet him with a dazzling smile which he had admired absently. Her sparkling warm blue eyes had inexplicably brightened his mood a little as he had smiled back. A pretty girl in a pretty pub he had thought to himself looking around.

“Hi, what can I get for you” she had asked pleasantly, as he had placed his order before with another of those warm smiles she had moved away to get him the coffee he had asked for, before 2 minutes later placing it gently in front of him.

“Guess you’re driving” she had laughed at him making him smile back at her with a nod

“Well let me know if you need that freshened” she said flashing him another of her big smiles “better make sure you have plenty of caffeine in you”

Sitting at the bar he had watched the young women move over to serve another customer, her welcome to the newcomer just as friendly and warm, giving him the same smile. Drake had found himself admiring her more and more, although he had to admit she was not really his type. He liked brunettes not blondes, and definitely not married ones he thought spotting the wedding ring on her finger, yet there was something about that smile of hers that had his whole body on alert. Taking another sip of his coffee he had chastised himself Sophia was not even a distant memory and he was eyeing up other women....and a married ones at that.

As his mobile phone had rang he had frowned in annoyance seeing Sophia’s number appear, ignoring it and letting the voice mail pick up as he made a mental note to himself to bar her number as soon as he got home. As he had put the phone back in his pocket the woman had once again appeared before him

“Would you like a re-fill” she asked holding a pot of coffee in her hands, as he had smiled gently nodding his thanks.

“You manning the place yourself” he had asked her, his dark eyes looking at her with curiosity as she had nodded with a smile as she poured the liquid into his cup

“It’s not that bad really” she had said meeting his black eyes with her large blue ones,

“We have a good clientele here........mostly locals” she had finished with another warm grin, before having to move over to serve another customer.

As Drake had watched her absently, a small child had appeared in the bar, causing him to frown with annoyance

“Do you like my picture” the young boy had asked holding up a picture to the woman, who had laughed at him, bending down to talk quietly, while admiring his work. Others in the bar had also admired his picture, most seeming to know the child before she had taken him by the hand and led him out of the bar area and back through to another room. Drake had been annoyed at seeing such a small child, the reaction to his presence by the locals showing that he was often there making him even angrier as the boy could not have been more than seven, annoyed that anybody would bring their child into a bar especially so late at night, his frown widening as a middle aged man had entered the bar and had smiled gently at the woman

“Hi Sarah” he said softly “The usual please”

She had greeted him warmly

“Jim........it’s so good to see you, we’ve missed you” as she had taken a glass from the top shelf pouring him a whisky, chatting happily with him. As the man had put his hand in his pocket to find money, she had shooed him away, with some comment about not having to pay, of it being on the house. With a frown he had seen the man try to argue with her, before smiling with thanks and moving over to sit with friends, Drake finding himself angered with her lack of professionalism, scowling down into his coffee.

Sarah had continued to serve the customers who drifted in continuously waiting for a lull before once again moving back over to the handsome man who sat silently on the stool at the end of the bar. With another of her large smiles she had asked

“Are you travelling far” her soft voice gentle and warm.

To her surprise, as he had seemed so friendly earlier, he had given her a curt answer before ignoring her, frowning into his coffee.

“Are you OK” she had asked a look of concern in her eyes, as he had looked at her with annoyance in his

“I’m fine…I would just rather be left alone”

Sarah had blinked in surprise with a hurt expression in her eyes

“I..I’m sorry… I didn’t mean to intrude, you just seemed a little upset” she stuttered gently

Raising his eyes to look into hers he had said steely

“Perhaps you might be best spending time with your kid…although I really don’t thing that it is a place for a child….and does your boss know that you give away his drinks to your friends” he said loftily, annoyed at another woman who seemed to think that it was OK to break the rules.

He had seen the pained look in her eyes as she had silently turned and moved down to the other end of the bar, cleaning glasses as her eyes had purposefully not met his, a soft flush on her lovely cheeks.

With a sigh he had continued drinking his coffee, suddenly ashamed at the way he had turned on her, what business was it of his if she gave away the occasional drink, she had been nothing but friendly to him and he had lashed out at her. While he had had a bad day, he knew that he had been out of order turning on her, suddenly feeling ashamed at his behaviour.

Just as he had considered moving to apologise the door had burst open and a woman had rushed in, her smile as wide as the other woman’s as she had cheerfully greeted many of the customers who had returned her call

“Hi Mia”

Drake absently thinking what a lovely name, as she had flashed them a return smile before rushing over to the other woman

“Sarah, I am so sorry” she had cried as she had reached the woman behind the bar.

“Things got so mental…it took me forever to get away”.

Seeing her properly for the first time, Drake had frozen in amazement at the younger woman. She was one of the most beautiful women he had ever seen, and he had found himself just staring at her. Long dark hair which was pulled back from her face and tied up in a bobble swung down her back and shoulders, swishing against her wonderful body. He had taken in her large blue eyes trimmed with long dark lashes and lips which gave the same wonderful smile as the other woman. Drake had found himself stunned by her, as she had rushed over to Sarah, stopping with a frown on her lovely face as she had noticed how upset she had looked.

“You Ok sis” she had asked, her voice suddenly full of concern, her hand gently touching her sisters shoulder.

Sarah had talked softly to her obviously telling the gorgeous brunette of his outburst Drake realised, as he took another mouthful of his coffee, with a sigh seeing how the two women had looked over at him. Two sets of large blue eyes watching him, one hurt and the other angry. As Sarah had moved her eyes quickly away, the younger woman had held his gaze, causing strange sensations to move through him, as it had been Drake who had felt the need to look away, not quite sure why, normally not one to back down from any situation, but feeling so strange at that point.

The younger woman had then said something he couldn’t hear, which had made the other woman laugh gently before moving into the room behind the bar to collect the small boy. He had watched as she had given her sister a hug, before leaving, purposefully not looking at the man who had berated her, as he had felt like a bigger heel knowing that he had been out of order in his attack on her, sighing angrily at himself as he had noticed that the younger woman had seemed to have taken over from her sister and was now laughing with the other customers as she poured drinks.

Drake Trent gave another small sigh before standing to leave, suddenly wishing he had kept quiet, knowing that there was no way the younger woman would give him the time of day now, never mind… with a frown he wondered what else he had expected, hoped for and leaving the small pub he had notched the whole experience as the cherry to the rest of his day, giving a wry smile. As he had reached his car he had heard a voice behind him shouting at him, stopping the tall man in his tracks

“Excuse me, could I have a word”

Turning around he had come face to face with the dark haired beauty from the bar, and with a smile his eyes had slid appreciatively over her

“Can I help you?”

He had noticed a contemptuous look enter her eyes as his had portrayed his obvious interest in her

“Who the hell do you think you are?”

She had asked, her hands balled on her hips in anger, her head cocked slightly to look up at him

Drake had looked at the woman before him in surprise, his expression changing quickly

“Excuse me” he asked in annoyance, as she had continued

“How dare you talk to my sister like that” she cried through clenched teeth

With a sigh he had looked down on her

“You think it is OK for her to bring her young child in here” he asked the woman before him, seeing as she had shaken her head

“No, this isn’t any place for a child”

She had said, seeing the triumphant look enter his eye, as she had continued, her voice dripping with disdain

“But that isn’t her child. She’s looking after him for his mum while she visits her husband in hospital, and for your information it was only because I was late that he was here at all. And as for giving away drinks, don’t suppose you noticed where she took that glass from did you.”

Drake looked at her blankly, as she had continued her large blue eyes flashing with anger

“Didn’t think so”.

When a customer buys us a drink we put a glass up on the top shelf so that we know how many drinks we were bought during the night for tips. If my sister wants to give one to a man who has been coming in here for years and years, and who has hit a rough patch losing his job, so that he can still meet up with his friends then who’s damn business is that but hers”

Drake had looked at her with surprise

“I didn’t know” he muttered gently, feeling uncomfortable

“No, but by God you were quick to judge” she said “Sitting there in your fancy business suite, looking down on her. Well you had no right to judge her because she is a much better person than you could ever be” she finished her small frame stiff with indignation, before turning away a look of complete contempt on her face to return to the bar

Drake Trent had suddenly felt very angry. He wasn’t sure who with, with himself for jumping down her sister’s throat or at the small spitting beauty shouting at him, and as she had walked away from him, he had moved forward catching her by the arm and swinging her around

“Your right”

He had said softly, seeing the surprise in her eyes as she had glared back at him

“I really shouldn’t have taken it out on your sister, or judged her, but then again you should be the one apologising. Seems to me that you are the one who caused all the problems tonight”

He angrily bit out, his tone low and hard, while his dark eyes held hers

“You knew that she was looking after a small child and you still arrived late, so before you get so self righteous lady perhaps you should make sure that you are whiter than white yourself next time”

Mia had shaken of his arm glaring at him before moving back into the bar her cold look portraying more than any words ever could.

Drake had watched as she had moved away from him, her long hair swishing against her body, which while stiff with indignation and anger moved gracefully never looking back as she had returned to the bar.

Reaching his estate Drake had poured himself a large whisky, his thoughts once more returning to the young woman in the bar. As he had driven home, memories of her had kept returning to him, exciting him as he had remembered the way her eyes had flashed so blue against the darkness of her black hair, her wonderful body so stiff and indignant as he had held her to return her anger. She was magnificent he realised his body knowing that he wanted to know her better. With a sigh he had also remembered the sweetness of her sister. He had turned on her and she had been guiltless of all his accusations and with a frown he realised that he owed her a huge apology making a mental note to fix that as soon as possible, before moving to his room and some much needed sleep.

As Mia had closed up the bar, her mind kept returning to the stranger from earlier. While she was angry at his outburst to her sister, she had not been able to stop herself from feeling a strange excitement as he had grabbed her, his large hand touching her skin. She had found her whole body shuddering with expectancy, and she had been confused. She had never seen such a handsome man, his black eyes so deep and impenetrable, his air so authorative, and his body so tall and lean with wide shoulders moving down to slim hips. Despite herself she had wondered what a man like that would feel like against her, giving herself a shake and smiling suddenly. He was obviously not from around these parts judging by the expensive suit he wore and the expensive car he had driven away in, the chances of seeing him again were slim to none. With an uncomfortable realisation, she had been glad, not understanding the way she had reacted to him, finding it unsettling. As she had wearily made her way back to her sisters house, she had felt tired, worn out from dancing and then taking over from her sister at the bar, so she could meet up with her lawyer, a family friend, to discuss her husband’s case. Mia had also frowned remembering how close she had come to being discovered in Jake’s office, shuddering at the implication of that for both herself and Sarah, knowing that she did not dare tell her sister what had happened.

As she entered the small flat, she had smelt the comforting aroma of newly filtered coffee and toast as her sister had moved from the living room to meet her, her smile warm.

“Thanks for taking over for me Mia” she had said softly “You must be exhausted”

Mia had given a small laugh

“Shattered, I’m sorry again Sarah about earlier. I had the chance to look through his office, and didn’t want to pass up the opportunity”

Her sister had looked at her with expectancy

“Forget about that Mia…Did you find anything” she had said her voice hopeful, her eyes shining with that hope.

However, as the younger woman had sighed shaking her head, her shoulders had slumped as she had moved back to sit on the large comfortable couch, tears suddenly welling up in her eyes

“I’m sorry Mia” she had said an attempt at a smile coming to her lovely face

Mia had sat down beside her

“What did Jan say” she had asked gently

Sarah had taken a moment to answer, her fingers entwining nervously together

“She told me that they are not prepared to do a re-trial without any new evidence”

For a second her voice had faltered

“God Mia, he shouldn’t be there” she cried softly before breaking down against her younger sister, who held her close, comforting her

“We’ll find the proof, Sarah” she had said with determination “I know it has to be somewhere. He must be keeping it at his house. There is no way that he would destroy that letter, not when he can use it to blackmail that bastard” she had said with bitterness in her voice.

“I’ve searched everywhere else. I just need to find some way to get into his house”

Sarah had nodded softly

“Thank you Mia” she said so gently “I don’t know how to thank you for everything you are doing for us…. But don’t put yourself in any danger” she continued, her eyes looking at Mia pleadingly.

Mia had sighed, standing up and stretching sleepily; glad she had chosen to say nothing of what had happened earlier

“How is Jan’s husband” she had asked, changing the subject

“He’s fine, they hope to have him out in a week” Sarah had replied

“That man in the bar was really annoyed that Josh was there” she said thoughtfully, smiling as Mia had made a small contemptuous noise

“Men like that should keep their mouths shut” she bit out “Think themselves better than everybody else…to him woman are only there for one thing”

Sarah had looked at her reproachfully

“How do you know that Mia” she asked “He looked really tired, perhaps he had just had a really had a bad day” she sighed

“You are far too forgiving” her sister had smiled softly “and besides I see men like that every day at the club…. Believe me they are only interested in women for one thing”

Sarah had laughed gently

“He was pretty good looking though” she had giggled, as her sister had looked at her in mock shock

“Now Sarah should married women be looking at other men like that” she laughed, laughing more as her sister had given her a wicked look

“I’m married not dead” she had grinned.

Chapter Two

That night as she sat brushing out her hair, Mia Jones had looked at herself in the mirror. At 23, she had a look in her eyes which defied her youth. Mia had always been aware of the way men looked at her, not really seeing how her large sapphire blue eyes were framed against her black hair, to such stunning effect. She had never used her looks as a way of getting ahead, although she had certainly had many opportunities, preferring to use her brains instead, studying in Scotland for a law degree and performing well, first in her class. She remembered how she had already been offered a prestigious placement in one of the top legal offices in the country and how she had had to turn it down as things had gone so badly for her sister. With a course of anger running through her she had remembered how the phone had rang one evening, as her sister had cried that they had arrested her husband, Adam for embezzling nearly half a million pounds from the company he worked for.

She had soon found out that he had been told to give the money and a note to a man named Jake Black by his employer, the man keeping both. At the time he had not questioned the action, but two weeks later when the money had been missed his employer had accused him of stealing it, and when it had gone to court the jury had not believed his story.

With a set line to her mouth she had bitterly thought why they would believe him, Adam’s employer was an MP with many years experience, and a known charity worker. However, in the time she had worked at the club she had found out that he was also a womaniser and a man who was not averse to siphoning off some of that money from the charities for himself. In reality it was his wife with all the money and Mia had known that he would not have wanted her to find out how he really spent his evenings, when she thought him to be at open surgeries. She had overheard enough in the past month to put together the chain of events, realising that the man had become a target for Jakes blackmail as he had kept the half a million pounds, but also with the letter a handy pawn for when he needed favours from high up. Mia had known that to prove her brother in laws innocence she had to find that letter.

As Sarah, had gone to pieces, it had been Mia who had put together a plan to get that proof, giving her sister hope to go on which she so badly needed. She had contacted her friend, Nancy, who had taught women how to use pole dancing to keep fit, and she had agreed to coach Mia on how to perform in public, before she had auditioned for a dancer’s job in Jake Blacks dance club. She had easily passed the audition, her stunning looks and magnificent body assuring her of the job. While she had performed on stage, Mia had drawn the line at personal dances, refusing to do lap dances for the many men who would often drunkenly pay to have the woman perform so close to them, many trying to grope the women who would have to avoid their busy hands. This was one part of the job that even Mia could not stomach, and she had refused the extra money which she was offered to carry out this role.

For one month now, she had worked at the club, gleaning useful snippets of information, which she had documented carefully as she gathered evidence to help Adam. However, she still needed to find that letter, and she had sighed, her perfect brow furrowing as to how to get herself into his house, without Jake Black getting her into his bed, a role he seemed keen for her to play. With a small shudder, she had thought how she would never stoop that low, before with a tired sigh she had moved over to her bed, determined to think about it tomorrow as tiredness had overcome her.

The next day Mia had returned home to find her sister smiling, a smug look on her face. Looking at her suspiciously she had asked what was wrong

“Oh nothing” Sarah had grinned as she had moved into the living room. As she had followed her, Mia had spotted two of the largest bouquets of flowers she had ever seen.

“Where did they come from… who are they for” she had asked in stunned surprise

Sarah had passed a small envelope to her as she had read hers aloud

“To Sarah. I hope you will forgive my rude behaviour yesterday I am truly sorry for the way I behaved to you yesterday. Drake Trent”

She had looked up with a smile

“See I told you he wasn’t so bad” she smiled looking happily at the flowers.

Mia had frowned as she opened her envelope

“To Mia. Thanks for putting me straight. I feel terrible for the way I behaved to both your sister and yourself. Perhaps you and I could go out for dinner so I can show you how sorry I am. Please call me on” and she had read the number, which appeared to be a mobile.

Throwing it to the side she had given a derisory laugh

“Wow, isn’t he smooth” she said as her sister had read the note

“mmmm, looks like somebody has an admirer” she had said with a glint in her eye

“You going to call him”

Mia had looked disbelievingly at her sister

“No.. what kind of apology was that.. if he should be taking anybody out to apologise then it should be you” she said firmly

Sarah had lifted her finger moving the band of gold with her thumb

“erm…married” she said as her sister had looked at her with patience

“Exactly… there is only one thing he wants to do… and it has nothing to do with being sorry for the way he acted” she said

Sarah had looked at her sister with concern

“You know since you started that job..and Ben… you seem to be very down on men” she said with concern “There are some really nice ones out there” she had added gently

Mia had looked at her apologetically with a little sadness in her eyes and sighed “I’m sorry Sarah… it’s just that place shows off just how bad men can get.. once we find that letter and I quit I’ll be fine” she said with a soft look into her sister’s eyes. “Promise, but now I am tired and I have to sleep” she yawned kissing her sisters cheek goodnight

For two days, Drake Trent had waited for her phone call. He had picked up the phone on many occasions to call, dropping it each time. Since meeting her he had not been able to forget the way her eyes had flashed at him, but he was not used to chasing women. As owner of a chain of hotels across both Britain and the states, he was a very wealthy man, and at only 32 he was also young and women had flocked to him not only for his social status, but the fact that he was charming, handsome and charismatic.

On the third day he had finally placed the call to the pub he had visited. Sarah had answered, thanking him for the flowers, as he had once more apologised for the way he had talked to her. She had laughed, brushing off the incident with a sweetness which he had found touching.

“Could I speak to Mia” he had eventually asked, hearing the other woman laugh gently

“My sister doesn’t actually work here Mr Trent” she had said smiling as he had insisted that she call him Drake

“Do you have a number I could reach her” he had continued, noting the way she had paused. With a small laugh in his voice he had added

“I could lie to you Sarah, but the truth is I really want to ask your sister out for dinner”

Sarah had giggled at his honesty, before seeming to come to a decision and giving the man her mobile number. She had ended the call with the ominous words

“Good luck Drake…you’ll need it”

His interest piqued he had dialled the number

As she had picked up, he had felt a strange sensation run through him at the way her soft voice sounded in his ear, so unexpected and pleasant

“Mia” he asked, as she had paused before asking who was calling. When he had given his name, he could hear the coldness creep into her voice

“How can I help you Mr Trent” she had asked briskly “I’m at my work right now so if you could make this quick”

Drake Trent had frowned; he didn’t like her tone, or the way she was trying to brush him off. However, remembering her blue eyes and wonderful body he had held back his quick retort.

“Please call me Drake” he started, hearing her sigh with annoyance

“I just wondered if you had received my flowers” he had asked, not believing the tacky line, but suddenly feeling almost tongue tied.

“Yes” she had replied “That was very nice, I know my sister appreciated them” she said, her voice bored

“I had hoped that you might call me” he said in as soft a voice as he could manage

“Why would you think that Mr Trent” she had questioned, deliberately ignoring his request to call him by his first name “I had no desire to go out for dinner with you

He had suddenly felt a surge of anger towards the young woman

“And why not” he asked a little cooler now

“Because Mr Trent, I am not the one you needed to apologise to, making me think that perhaps dinner was not what was on your mind”

He had laughed softly at the way she had correctly read the situation

“And what is wrong with that Mia” he replied softly

“I have no interest in men like you Mr Trent” she had replied coldly

“Now that is hardly fair” he had replied “How do you know what I’m like unless you give me a chance and take me up on my offer of dinner” he threw back at her in his most charming tone.

Mia had gone silent for a few seconds before she had finally said

“OK, Mr Trent, I’ll give you a chance… I will go out to dinner with you if you can tell me what my last name is”

Drake sat completely speechless. Shocked to realise that he had no idea of her surname, he had never thought to even ask her sister, only interested in getting the young woman alone.

“I didn’t think so” he heard her say from the other end of the phone, her voice dripping with disdain.

“Goodbye Mr Trent” she said before ending the call.

Drake had sat totally stunned, before his lips had curled into a genuine laugh. She had totally caught him, for the first time in his life a woman had gotten the upper hand of him, and he felt himself wanting her even more than he had ever thought he could want a woman. Suddenly he realised that he needed to know all about her, not just how she would feel in bed. Lifting the phone he had called his investigator, her image burning brightly in his head, as his pulse had raced at the mere thought of her.

The following day he had sat reading the small dossier which had been handed to him earlier, once again frowning at the contents. Mia Jones, 23 and her sister Sarah Craig, 27, where they lived and where they worked. He had been stunned to read where Mia worked, discovering her to be an exotic dancer in a night club, which he was very familiar with. He had frowned when he had discovered who she worked for, recognising the man’s name and knowing what an unpleasant character he was.

With a scowl he had thrown the dossier onto the table in annoyance, a pole dancer, now there was trouble he thought to himself and certainly not the kind of trouble he needed. He had been surprised when he had read the dossier realising that Mia Jones was a total bundle of contradictions to him, as her whole attitude did not yell out dancer, as she seemed smart and street wise. With a sigh he had decided that there were some things which should be left well alone, before looking down he had picked up the photo which had spilled out. Mia looked back at him, with that wonderful smile on her face, her hair pulled back over her shoulders as she waved to somebody out of range of the camera. He had looked over her face, with such piercing intelligent blue eyes and down her wonderful figure, groaning slightly at the way his body had reacted to just seeing a picture of her.

Sitting still for several minutes Drake Trent had thought about her, before barking orders to his secretary through the intercom, knowing that he would not be content until he knew her a whole lot better.

That night as Mia sat preparing for her set, she had laughed with the other dancers. When she had initially started working at the club, she had been nervous, unsure as to what kind of people would earn a living dancing for men, allowing themselves to be fawned over and drooled over, to be used to fuel men’s fantasy’s, but she had felt ashamed of her presumptions when she had actually gotten to know the other girls. Many had no qualifications and had taken up dancing as the last resort to keep a roof over their heads. Some of the girls also had children, and very quickly she had come to look on most of them as her friends, each looking out for the other.

There were however, a few who she kept away from, those girls who were closest to Jake Black, and who she knew he used for other purposes.

As she had completed her make-up Nina Clark, a good friend of hers, had walked up carrying a large spray of flowers

“Very nice” she had said admiringly

“These just got delivered for you”

Her eyes had sparkled

“Now somebody has class” she had laughed admiring the flowers

Mia had grimaced as she had searched for the card. As she read it she had gasped in shock, seeing that it was addressed to Mia Jones. Inside the message read

“How about for initiative DT”

She had felt her lips twitch as she had held back the laugh from leaving her mouth, her eyes twinkling.

“Who are they from” she was asked, as she had looked back at the others

“Oh, just some guy who wont’ take no for an answer” she said softly, her eyes looking at the flowers thoughtfully. Maybe Drake Trent was different she thought gently to herself as she allowed the smile in her eyes to move down to her lovely lips.

Seeing her expression the others had mocked her

“Looks like you don’t want him to stop” they had laughed as she had thrown a balled up tissue at one of them laughing herself. At that point, her phone had rang and she had once more heard his deep voice, once more feeling the inexplicable prick of awareness at the sound of him

“I hope that I am talking to Mia Jones” she heard him say, as her lips had twitched gently once again

“Very good Mr Trent” she had replied, her tone a little less cold than it had been the previous night

“I was hoping that you might give me a chance, if I showed a little initiative” she heard him laugh gently

For a second Mia had hesitated, finding herself frowning gently, swithering slightly

As though sensing her hesitance he had swooped in

“How about if I pass it through your sister, and promise to have you home before midnight” he had said, hearing for the first time the sound of her laughter

“Please Mia, everybody has to eat” he had said softly, as with a small sigh she had caved in, telling him to pick her up the following night at 7 at her sisters house.

As he had finished the call, Drake Trent had breathed out gently. Feeling himself smiling happily, not really understanding why.

The following day, he had arrived at her sister’s house slightly early, smiling warmly at Sarah, who had opened the door to him

“Hi Drake” she had welcomed him, her large smile filling her lovely face

“Mia will be out soon” she said, before adding “I hear that you will have her home before midnight” a soft giggle escaping her mouth, as he had nodded back at her.

Drake had taken an instant liking to Sarah, who had gone out of her way to make him feel comfortable, realising suddenly that he ,Drake Trent, was actually feeling nervous over a woman. After several minutes he had heard the door open and looking up he had watched Mia move into the room, looking at her with appreciation. She wore her hair up, piled on top of her head to effectively show off her lovely long neck, dressed in a silk shirt and skirt which sat above her knee, clinging to her wonderful body and once more he had been stunned at how beautiful she was. Aware of Sarah clearing her throat pointedly at him as he had realised that he was actually staring at her, as she had looked back at him with a small frown on her face

“I didn’t know what you had planned” she said “Will this be OK”

Drake had nodded, finding himself still speechless, before giving himself a shake not understanding what the hell was going on. How could a woman he hardly knew have such an effect on him, when he dealt with some of the most powerful decision makers in the world on a daily basis, his reputation as a straight talker and ruthless negotiator legendary.

“You look great” he had finally managed standing to join her. From her seat Sarah had watched the two, thinking how well they looked together, and as they had left the flat she had winked at him mouthing the words “good luck” as he had smiled back at her winking back.

As they had sat in his car Mia had looked over at him, seeing how handsome he looked, as he sat in the driving seat looking so much in control of the powerful car,

“So where are we going” she asked softly, seeing how he had smiled

“Well I thought I would start slowly, with dinner, and perhaps dancing, making sure that I got you home in plenty of time before your curfew” he grinned as she had laughed softly back

“Sounds like a plan” she said approvingly making him throw her a dazzling smile, which had the blood boiling disconcertingly in Mia’s body, as she had looked away frowning and chastising herself.

The restaurant he had chosen turned out to be more of a club, with a live band playing throughout, enabling the many patrons the opportunity to take to the dance floor while waiting for their meal. Mia had noticed how they had not had to join the many who had stood in line waiting hopefully for seats, but were instead escorted personally to their table by the owner, who seemed to know Drake personally.

Mia had wondered how many times Drake Trent brought women to the club to make him such a VIP, seeing how many of the women had openly stared at him with admiration, not seeing how the men had done the same to her.

“Wow....do you get regular customer privileges” she had said flippantly seeing as they were seated in the best table in the house. She had seen as Drake’s lips had twitched as he had laughed back

“Actually this is my first time here” he had smiled

“I only recently met the owner, we met on a flight over to America recently........he said I should drop by sometime”

Mia had felt petty at her sarcasm, quickly picking up the menu to look at the food. With a gasp she had seen the prices, before looking up at him deciding to herself that he could afford it, but finding herself looking for the cheapest thing any way.

As though sensing her hesitance he had gently recommended the speciality of the house, also the most expensive she had noticed, as with a sigh she had smiled at him agreeing to his suggestion.

Having placed their order, he had led her to the dance floor, for the first time taking her into his arms.

Mia had felt a strange pleasurable sensation pass through her, as she felt his hand hold her loosely to him, the firm warmth against her back causing shivers to move through her spine, as they swayed together on the dance floor. He had laughed against her ear, while talking to her and she had laughed back finding his conversation more than just pleasurable. As he had led her back to the table, seeing their meal appear he had asked if she was enjoying herself

With a small chuckle she had nodded gently, the realisation hitting her that she really was. Peeking over at him she had smiled

“The ideal first date venue” she replied with a mocking look in her eyes. Drake had looked back at her in surprise

“Ideal?” he had asked questioningly

“mmm gives you the chance to get up real close and personal while not be expected to have any really meaningful conversation” she had replied with a glint in her eye which had made him smile, before looking at her his eyes full of a strange warmth

“First dates can be very….awkward” he had laughed, amazed at the way she had so quickly interpreted the situation

“For both parties” she had added with a small smile, before starting to eat her meal. Mia had found the food delicious, and had sipped the wine which he had ordered slowly, savouring the obviously expensive drink.

Through the meal they had chatted happily to each other about a variety of subjects. Drake was impressed with her wide breath of knowledge from current events to the arts, along with her quick wit which had him laughing often. Mia too had been impressed with him. She had found him to be neither arrogant nor pushy, as he had joked with her and listened attentively to all she said. Neither had asked any really personal questions, and as their meal had finished she had looked deeply into his eyes, his stomach suddenly flipping for no real reason

“Can I ask you something” she said her voice suddenly serious

He had nodded “of course”

“How did you know where I worked?”

Drake had smiled back, “I used my initiative” he chuckled, not wanting to tell her that he had sent an investigator to find out about her, suddenly not sure how she would react

Still looking closely at him she had bit her lip gently as he had seen the small shadow in her eyes

“Doesn’t it bother you what I do” she asked her eyes keenly waiting for the answer

Drake had looked at her in surprise. How did he tell her how much her job bothered him without insulting her. As the meal had progressed he had wondered often why somebody like Mia Jones was dancing on a pole for a living. She wasn’t just jaw droppingly beautiful, but also incredibly smart, far smarter than any other women he had dated, and he had found himself wondering about her

“I find that question hard to answer Mia” he had said softly his eyes holding hers steadily “If I say yes, then I come over as a judgemental male chauvinist and if I say no, then you’ll only think I’m after you for one thing”. He watched as her lips had curled into a soft smile

“Good answer Drake” she said, her eyes twinkling mischiviously. However, he had continued looking at her with searching eyes and a small frown on his brow

“Since you asked, let me ask you, why do you work there?” he asked “You just strike me as somebody who would rather use her brain than….” He had stopped there looking warily at her

Mia however, was looking back at him with a strange expression on her face.

“I have my reasons” she had finally said softly, before adding “but don’t assume that just because a girl dances in a club that she doesn’t have brains to”

Drake had given a short laugh

“Told you… no right answer…. That is kind of like answering the question do I look fat in this dress”

Mia had laughed, the sound so pleasant to his ears, as he had once more risen to lead her to the dance floor and for the rest of the evening, they had enjoyed each others company. Mia had realised how much fun she was having and looking over at Drake, she wondered if perhaps she had misjudged him.

At 11 o’clock, they had left the club with him joking that he had to get her home before the clock struck 12, not wanting an angry sister on his back

Mia had giggled peeking a look at him as she had again admired his wonderful body and handsome features. As they drove home she had wondered what it would be like to feel herself against him, flushing at this thought, realising that it was the first time she had looked at a man that way since Ben. With a small sad frown she had turned away pushing the memories down.

At the door to Sarah’s flat Mia had turned to look at Drake

“I had a lovely time” she said softly, her eyes almost shy as she had smiled up at him

He had nodded in agreement, his eyes dancing

“Does this mean that you’ll do it again” he asked with a grin

Mia had smiled shyly once more

“We could do that” her voice so soft

As he had smiled gently, he had stepped closer to her, his hands moving to gently hold the top of her arms as his eyes had looked down at her lips,

“I had the most wonderful time tonight Mia Jones” he had whispered softly his eyes half closing as his head had moved forward to kiss her.

Mia, had watched, a strange desire to feel his mouth on hers filling her, before at the last second she had turned to force him to kiss her cheek, confused as to why she was so nervous at the thought of his touch, although feeling as even this had caused sensations to jolt through her body. As he had straightened up, he had not mentioned her turning away, but had looked gently into her eyes

“I have to go away on business for a few days”, he had said his voice suddenly husky

“Are you free at the weekend?”

Mia had shaken her head

“I don’t have another night off until after the weekend” she had said, as he had looked disappointed.

“Couldn’t you change your day” he had asked her with a small note of annoyance in his voice, and with a frown Mia had looked back at him with a hint of the old steel in her eyes

“No I can’t, and if it’s such a problem then you don’t have to see me again Drake” she had said, a hardness to her voice

He had looked at her with surprise

“I didn’t mean to upset you” he had breathed gently, as she had bit her lip her eyes wary, before after a small pause adding

“My next day off is Monday”

He had smiled down on her, “Monday then, same time same place”

Mia had nodded looking up at him, her lovely features apologetic

“I didn’t mean to snap” she said with a sigh, “it’s been a hard week”

Drake had lifted her hand to his lips and kissed her fingers

“Already forgotten” he said against her skin, causing more sensations to travel through her.

Moving back into the flat Mia was met by Sarah who was sitting in the living room, her face bursting with the multitude of questions she was holding back, as she looked at Mia with expectation

“Well” she asked her face shining

“How was he?”

Mia had laughed

“You mean, how was the date” she corrected her

Sarah had giggled a wicked look on her face

“I know what I meant” she chuckled

“The date was fine” Mia had said before looking at her sister more solemnly

“He wants to go out again next Monday…but I don’t know Sarah..maybe I should call it off”

Sarah had looked at her patiently

“Let me guess, you like him” she had said softly

“He is the first guy since Ben that you have actually agreed to go out with and now you’re scared”

Mia had scowled “No…it's not that…it’s just that … we’re so close…. The last thing I need is to get involved with some guy when we have to find that letter”

Sarah had stood to hug her sister

“I’m sorry Mia, but you need to have a life too, and I just worry about you so much….since Ben, you’ve been like half a person, and for the first time, I see your face lit up” as she had looked intently into her sisters face

“And that gives me hope for you Mia”

Mia had felt the tears rise to her eyes, as Sarah had hugged her again

“Please don’t Mia”, she whispered “you deserve to be happy”

Mia had looked deeply into Sarah’s eyes, her teeth savaging her bottom lip, as her eyes had looked so sorrowfully into them

“I..I just feel that I am being unfaithful to Ben” she had finally managed as Sarah had pulled her in for a hug

“Oh Mia.........I know...........but he would have wanted you to go on...........Ben would have wanted you to be happy”

Mia had clung to her sister, the memories flooding her once more, as something inside her had eased, some small thing that had filled her with a sense of peace, as she had pulled back and given a smile full of that peace

“Yes...yes he would” she had finally managed, as Sarah had gasped, her eyes shining brightly, seeing that for the first time in a year her sister had taken a step forward, her hand gently stroking her hair as she had nodded in agreement

Mia had given a tearful laugh before giving her sister a small kiss on the cheek as she had moved to go to her room. Behind her Sarah was beaming as she had thrown at her

“And for what it’s worth….I still think he’s cute” with a small laugh which her sister had returned, feeling the first time in a long time like some heavy weight had been lifted from her.

Chapter Three

For the rest of the week, Mia had found little regular text messages sent to her from Drake, enjoying them and finding herself looking forward to the next as she had returned little jokes and comments back to him.

When the following Monday had finally rolled around she had found herself looking forward to her second date with Drake, rolling her eyes at Sarah who would keep giving her knowing looks as the night had gone on and she had tried on outfit after outfit, before finally settling for a short dress. The dress clung so perfectly to her body, as it swished around her knees, it’s deep blue colour accentuating her wonderful eyes, which shone brightly as she had carefully applied light makeup, feeling strangely nervous yet excited at seeing him again.

At exactly 7 the doorbell had rung, and rushing out she had stood nervously while her sister had answered the door, as she had mouthed “Do I look alright” while Sarah had looked back raising her eyes heaven ward.

As he crossed the door, giving Sarah a small welcome peck on the cheek Drake had caught sight of Mia, his insides instantly flipping. She stood looking so beautiful in the small living area, her hair which she wore down that day, tumbling down her back, so thick and glossy that he longed to run his fingers through it. Sarah had watched the way the two had looked at each other, with a small giggle escaping her. Noticing the flowers in his hands, she had given him a small poke, as he had quickly pulled himself together, turning to give Sarah one of the bouquets, with a small twinkle in his eye

“I’m keeping in with the sister”

As she had chuckled smiling warmly back at him

“Smart man”

Seeing as he had moved forward to hand the other to Mia, his eyes openly admiring her as he had whispered softly

“You look beautiful”

Sarah had smiled, seeing as her sister had accepted the compliment, without one of her usual flippant put downs that men received if they dared admire her, once more looking at Drake Trent with hope

“So you two kids have a great time” she said with a laugh opening the door to shoo them both outside, grabbing Mias flowers as they had wished her a good night.

In the car she had asked him with a small chuckle what safe second date venue he was taking her to this time, seeing as Drake had thrown her a return smile

“Well I thought I would stop being so transparent and go for the intimate dinner instead…I really want us to get to know each other Mia” he had added suddenly more serious

She had felt herself flush with pleasure, looking down at her hands to hide the look in her eye.

“That sounds nice…you cooked” she asked with a giggle seeing the way he had looked guiltily back at her

“I ordered the stuff….does that count” he had chuckled, before making her laugh with stories of his ordering adventures, outlandishly made up she knew but laughed back at

Mia had quickly found herself relaxing in his company, for the first time in a long time finding herself enjoying being alone with a man.

As they had pulled up outside an exclusive block of flats, they had walked into the plush entrance in which they were buzzed in by a doorman, who had wished Drake a good evening, his smile and greeting just as warm to her, before he had called the lift. Mia had looked in surprise as it had risen to the penthouse suite itself, the doors opening straight into the large open plan living area of the flat itself. Mia had wandered around the large space her eyes full of wonder at the opulence of the decorations, before moving out with him to admire the view from the large balcony.

“This is your home” she had asked in wonder, her eyes huge as she had taken in the way the stars seemed to shimmer in the clear but cool night sky.

“One of them” he had said “but not the main one…that is a little too far..your sister wouldn’t approve. You might not make it home in time for your curfew” he said his tone full of humour as she had chuckled back.

“Wow, how rich are you” she giggled, as he had smiled back

“I’m not going to starve any time soon” he grinned as they moved back into the kitchen. She had watched as he had opened a bottle of champagne which had been sitting in a cooler on a small table beside them, before accepting the glass and sipping the delicious bubbly wine.

“To us” he had said gently, as she had silently met his eyes taking a small sip, enjoying the efervesant taste, as it played on her tongue, while he removed dishes from the oven. With a smile she had carried the glasses through to the dining room while he placed the food onto the table, before gallantly pulling her chair out for her to sit.

Through the meal they had talked about their week. He had enjoyed telling her about the different characters he had met during his week in New York as she had made him laugh with stories of the different men who came into the club. Drake couldn’t remember the last time he had felt so relaxed, finding himself enjoying listening to her soft voice, once more impressed with her quick wit.

When they had finished, Mia had insisted on helping him to clear up, quickly lifting plates and following him into the kitchen.

“No.........not going to have you casting up that I abused your kind offer of food” she had giggled, hearing the warm throaty sound of his return one, once more feeling the warm sensation as his laugh had run down her spine causing her to shiver with pleasure

As Drake had turned to take the plates from her she had looked deeply into his eyes, hers still showing the desire flooding her, a sudden smouldering look coming into his, as he had placed the plates behind him, while moving his hands to hold her pulling her gently closer him.

Suddenly feeling very nervous Mia had dropped her eyes, her voice husky as she had whispered softly

“I ..I better get home” she had managed, while standing transfixed, as his finger had hooked under her chin, angling it up so that their eyes had once more met, Mia watching with a strange expectancy as wordlessly his head had moved down to take her lips. His kiss was wonderful and she had felt her whole body shudder, as he had pulled her in even closer to deepen it. Feeling as his tongue gently explored her soft mouth as she had groaned gently her arms going around his neck to pull him in even tighter, feeling her soft body against his hardness.

“Not just yet, Mia” he had whispered gently against her mouth, “Stay a little longer” his hand moving to stroke her back as his mouth had once more descended, this time more demanding and passionate as she had felt her whole body react to him, falling harder against him with a will of its own.

Mia could feel herself becoming light headed with the desire he was erupting within her, feeling as he had bodily lifted her to hold her higher and even closer against him, her arms resting on his shoulders as her hands had raked through his hair. As her head had spun she had been aware of his arousal digging into her, before he had placed her back onto her feet once more, his mouth now trailing down her cheek his warm breath wafting sensually across her ear. Unable to open her eyes which felt so heavy at that moment as though she had been drugged, her mind was reeling with her reaction to him. Only the sound of his voice had brought her around as he continued kissed along her jaw to her neck

“Mia are you on the pill?” he had asked his voice husky and low. Mia had found herself nodding her head, as he had continued kissing her before the meaning of his words had suddenly crashed into her brain. Opening her eyes quickly Mia had pushed him from her, the realisation that she was now no longer in the kitchen, but standing at the side of his bed shocking her. She had not even been aware that he had all the time he had been kissing her been walking with her to his bedroom, and with a gasp of shock, she had moved away from him, her eyes while still full of the desire she had felt now looked at him with horror and contempt

“What are you doing” she cried at him

Drake was watching her, his eyes still burning with passion but now tinted with confusion

“I thought this was what you wanted” he said moving towards her to try and take her once more back into his arms

Mia however, had moved even further back, her hand held outright to stop him in his tracks

“No, I thought you were different” she had cried her voice so tortured, her eyes full of the shock her body showed

“I am going home right now” she said moving from the room to grab her bag, her whole body shaking. As she had moved her hand to the lift control he had grabbed her arm, spinning her around to look at him, as she had refused to meet his eye

“I’m sorry Mia… I really didn’t plan for that to happen” he had moaned softly “Honestly I really didn’t”

She had looked at him with complete disbelief

“Of course you didn’t” she bit back with contempt

“Now let me go” her hand shaking him free from her,

“At least let me take you home” he said, his eyes pleading as she once more had turned to angrily push the lift button

“No….I’d rather take a taxi” she had cried out “Stay the hell away from me Drake…don’t ever call me again”

“You are being ridiculous” he had cried back; as she had looked back briefly glaring at him, before moving into the lift. As the doors had opened he had made to follow her in as she had stopped him with her body

“Stay away” she cried once more only stepping back as the lift doors had closed.

Standing in the open plan living area Drake had stood with his hands on his hips, a black angry expression on his handsome face. Damn her, he thought the woman was crazy, while groaning with the realisation that his whole body yearned to have her back, knowing that he wanted her more than he had ever wanted any other woman in his entire life.

As the doors had once more opened in the foyer of the luxury building, the door man had appeared

“Miss Jones” he had said respectfully, smiling warmly as she had nodded in confirmation to him “Your car is just being brought around to the front”

As she was about to argue, a black limousine had appeared, Mia frowning slightly, while part of her had felt relief, glad that she did not have to hang around waiting for a taxi, worrying that he might come back down after her to try and talk her out of leaving

“Mr Trent phoned down to let you know the car was at your disposal”

Mia had stood, her whole body rigid with anger

“Thank you” she finally managed moving into the car and allowing it to take her back home.

As she had once more moved into her sisters living room Sarah had been surprised to see her so early

“What happened” she had asked in concern seeing how upset Mia looked.

“Nothing” Mia had bit out feeling as the tears had finally come to her eyes as her sister had jumped up to look closer at her

“What happened Mia” she had cried with real concern in her voice, her eyes wide with surprise

“I..I thought he was different” she had moaned softly “but he was only after one thing” she said bitterly, as Sarah had looked at her in shock

“He didn’t look the type… I thought he was so nice” she had said softly as Mia had given a short mirthless laugh “Well he wasn’t, I should have known, just because he has money he thinks that he can have everything he wants”

Sarah had sat her down, gently prompting her for more details. As Mia had told her the whole story, she had looked carefully at her

“So he made sure that the car took you home” she had said causing Mia to stand up with annoyance, her hands flustered as they waved away the remark

“I’m going to bed” she had stated, her whole body rigid with the anger she still felt towards Drake, annoyed by her sister finding any good in the man who had tried so transparently to get her into his bed .

Standing in her room, she had pulled out her mobile, which was ringing persistently. frowning seeing his number before turning off the phone refusing to answer his call.

Mia couldn’t sleep that night, her mind full of his kisses. The way she had clung to him returning his kisses with an equal passion as she had finally admitted to herself that she had been ready to go so much further. Angry with herself for being so weak, she had hated herself for even contemplating becoming the play thing of another rich man who thought that she would fall straight into his arms angrily dashing away the tears which had inexplicably risen to her eyes.

For the next two days she had refused to answer any of his calls and there had been many of them both to her mobile and to Sarah’s flat. Each night she went home, Sarah would look at her

“Won’t you talk to him Mia” he seems so upset.

“No” would be her only answer, as Sarah had sighed sadly, remembering his tortured voice as he had begged her to make her sister see that he had not planned for anything that had happened, Sarah believing him, but knowing that Mia never would

Chapter Four

Friday was always a busy day at the club, full of business men looking to shake off the week with a little fun. As Mia had sat at her dressing table preparing for her set, she had once more thought of Drake, groaning with pain finding it hard to hold onto the anger she needed to. She had thought of his long lean body which had felt so hard against her, and had seen those wonderful black eyes, as they had looked at her with such need causing her to groan slightly at the way her body reacted just to the memories. With an angry motion she had grabbed a brush pulling it painfully through her hair, once more telling herself that he was no different than.......... this thought once more bringing back the sad memories of Ben, a tear sliding down her lovely cheek, as she had hardened her heart to keep out the pain.

Beside her she saw yet another large bouquet of flowers containing yet another plea to talk to him which she had thrown in the bin, passing the flowers around to some of the other girls, aware that the large dressing area had began to look like a florists

Outside Jake Black was stunned to see the tall man walk into the club. He had recognised Drake Trent immediately, having spent so long trying to get the man to talk with him. Quickly he had walked over to meet him, extending his hand to shake his with delight

“Mr Trent” he cried “This is an honour, I wish you had let me know you were coming”

Drake had looked at Jake with hooded eyes, not wanting to show the contempt he had for the man before him. For months now Jake had been trying to contact him, both personally and through others, to organise for certain services to be made available within his hotels. Drake had refused to even speak to the man never mind to give any thought to his ridiculous proposition. His hotels were classy respected establishments with great reputations, and he was not about to let some low life run sleazy private dance sessions for his patrons.

However, he had not spoken his thoughts, still waiting to find out about Mia Jones and how she fitted into Jake Black’s operation.

“I thought I would come and check out your establishment” he said his eyes moving around the room, his expression impenetrable.

Jake Black had smiled, his sickliest smile, before directing Drake to the best table in the house.

“Please, be my guest, Mr Trent” he fawned “Take your time, anything you want is totally on the house” he said adding, his voice full of innuendo“..and of course anyone”

Drake had not liked the way the last comment had been made, suddenly thinking of Mia, but holding down the contempt in his voice.

“That’s very kind of you…Mr Black” he said back his tone cool before accepting a whiskey from the young woman who was being pulled forward and introduced to him

“Anything you want just tell Mitzy here and she’ll make sure you get it” the man had said before nervously looking at the man sitting before him, so cool and calm

“I’ll leave you to it” he had added moving away, as he had realised that he had been dismissed by the opposing figure before him, who was now sipping his drink his whole attention focussed on the stage, on which one of his dancers moved sensually to the music.

Drake had sat there for nearly an hour, glancing at his watch every few minutes as though he was in a rush. From the shadows Jake Black had watched him nervously, before seeing how the man had suddenly stiffened in interest, as his newest dancer had entered the stage.

The compare had in his bored monotone voice introduced the beautiful woman who had moved onto the stage

“Please gentlemen give a big welcome to the ice princess herself.........the lovely Mia”

The loud music once more firing up

As Drake had watched, Mia had move onto the stage and he had felt his stomach lurch with excitement. He had watched as she had grabbed the pole, her perfect shape swaying so seductively before it as she moved up and down using her whole body to such devastating effect.

He had gasped as she had first entered, his whole being reacting to seeing her as he had run his hand across his mouth to stop the small moan escaping his lips. She wore a white Basque with white stockings which showed off the smooth flesh high on her thighs, and high stiletto shoes which lengthened her already long shapely legs, and he had felt his jaw drop at how sexy she looked. Her long hair fell loosely around her, as she swung it around her body, her head and back arching backwards to allow it to brush against her perfect bottom. He had remembered how she had felt in his arms, how she had kissed him back so passionately, throwing him over the edge with the desire to possess her, closing his eyes momentarily at the memory.

Unlike many of the other girls, who had openly flirted with the crowd, Mia had not once looked at the many men who whistled and made comments at her. Instead she had seemed to look into the distance, an air of untouchability about her, which excited him even more, as she had moved up and down the pole, her actions graceful and at the same time so erotic. He had noticed how the many men ogled the beautiful girl on the stage, a feeling of jealousy filling him at the way they dared to look at her in that way, dared to look at his Mia, frowning at this thought and the realisation that he looked on her that way.

As he had watched her finish she had bowed, for the first time looking at the men before her. As her eyes had landed on him she had looked surprised and shocked, before an almost contemptuous look had crossed her eyes as she had moved off the stage for the next girl who was even then being introduced to the crowd by the same bored compare.

Lifting a hand he had called over the young waitress introduced to him earlier, who had pushed her cleavage into his face as she approached him

“Can I help you” she had breathed seductively, giving him her most sensual smile

With a small nod he had answered

“The girl Mia, I would like a dance from her” he had said giving the young woman a winning smile

“Could you arrange that for me?”

The girl had looked flustered and unsure “I..I don’t think Mia does personal dances Mr Trent” she had said apologetically, before adding

“But any of the other girls would be only too happy to oblige” she continued, seeing as Drake had frowned

“No..I just wanted her” he had muttered, before looking back up at the nervous looking woman

“Why don’t you see if she’ll make an exception” he said his wonderful smile and incredible looks working on the girl before him. With a wink she had nodded gently

“I’ll see what I can do Mr Trent” she had said, smiling widely, moving off to see to his request. As she had moved behind the scenes, Jake Black had rushed over demanding to know what he had wanted

“He wants a lap dance from Mia” she had replied “But Mia doesn’t do private dances” she had said with concern

Jake Black had narrowed his eyes

“She will tonight” he had said with determination, before moving to the area the girls used to get dressed. As he had moved to where Mia was sitting he had put a sickly smile on his face.

“Mia…you were great” he had cried loudly, his eyes looking at the woman before him. He had made a mental note to himself that he should spend more private time with her himself, wondering how friendly she would be given the right persuasion, as his greedy eyes had devoured her wonderful face and body.

Mia had sat quietly at her table, her hands still shaking from seeing Drake Trent in the audience. With a small grimace, it had confirmed to her that he really was no better than the other men who had tried to get her into bed, his appearance there proving what kind of man he really was. She had tried to hide the unpleasant feelings which the owner invoked within her, seeing the way his eyes had travelled up and down her, his intentions clearly written on his face

“Thank you Mr Black” she had managed to say with a forced smile on her face

“I have a small favour to ask of you” he had said as she had looked at him with surprise

“We have had a request for you to do a private dance…and I think you should do it”

Mia had frowned “I don’t do private dances” she said with a note of finality in her voice. However, Jake Black had looked at her unpleasantly

“Let’s call this a one off” he said with determination, and seeing the way her mouth had opened had added “Because if you can’t do a favour for me… then maybe you should look for work somewhere else” he had said with a cold glint in his eyes.

Mia had bit her lip. She hadn’t finished what she had come there to do yet, and with a small frown she had nodded

“Ok, but just this once” she had said with annoyance

With her agreement obtained the mans whole demeanour had changed as he had smiled at her as though she were his best friends

“Now I appreciate that Mia..I really do” he said his hand gently stroking her cheek, as she had grit her teeth keeping her head still as her instinct had been to pull away from him while shouting at him to take his hands off her, instead smiling as sweetly as she could

“No problem Mr Black” she managed scowling as he had turned away

As Mia had stepped into the private room, she had been stunned to see Drake Trent sitting on the chair. Faltering, she had swithered her whole being wanting to turn around and flee, not to demean herself before the man who had tried to trick her into his bed. However, with Jakes words still ringing in her head, she had swallowed hard, pushing down those feelings and raising her head with her mouth firmly set she had moved forward

“It’s nice to see you again Mia” Drake had said gently, seeing the anger in her eyes, along with the contempt. At that point he had known for sure that she had not wanted to come, wondering why she had, why she would allow herself to be made to come to this room to dance for him when her whole body screamed at wanting to be anywhere but there.

Briefly he wondered if she had known who it was she was being sent to see, remembering the waitress’s comments that she didn’t do personal dances. Inside him the desire for her had burned even more strongly, as he looked at her wearing so little clothing, now fully able to appreciate her wonderful figure and her hair which he remembered the feel of, as he had run his fingers through it, the night things had gone so wrong. Even the fact that her eyes were glaring at him so coldly sent shivers of anticipation through him as she had started to dance as the music had began to play, refusing to answer him, her mouth set tight.

Instead she had held his eyes as she had moved up and down his body with hers only inches away, ensuring that at no point did they actually touch. He had sat watching her, his eyes holding her look and not moving over her body as she had expected.

Mia had been shocked to see him there, suddenly sure that everything she had thought of him was true, he had to be somebody really important to Jake Black to warrant a command to dance for him, and she had looked at him with more disdain in her eyes. Anybody that friendly with Jake Black was trouble. However she was surprised at how her whole body had reacted to his presence and the way his eyes held hers so steadily as she had moved even more sensually than she had meant too.

As the music had stopped, she had wordlessly turned to leave the room, her mind in turmoil without really knowing why. Drake Trent was an arrogant, egotistical womaniser who meant nothing to her. His sole interest in her was to get her in between his sheets, as he had proven the night of their last date and Mia did not need that in her life. As she held out her hand to open the door, she had heard him quickly rise from his chair, before feeling as his hand had moved onto her shoulder as he turned her around, the touch of him on her causing an inexplicable soft pleasurable shiver to run though her

“You aren’t allowed to touch me” she had hissed at him, her reaction to his touch shocking her.

“I just wanted to see you” he replied dropping his hand from her, as those wonderful dark eyes had looked down on her so seductively

She had looked evenly back at him with contempt “Did you see enough Drake” she had finally said, seeing the smouldering look in his eyes “Did you enjoy it”

He had smiled softly at her

“Yes, I did… you dance well”

Mia had turned again as he added

“Mia, let me take you out to dinner, you choose, anywhere you want, maybe when you have finished here” he had said gently, a small pleading not in his voice “I had to come…because you don’t seem to answer when I call, and we need to talk” he said huskily, his dark eyes watching her carefully

Mia had given a small derisive laugh “Dinner?” she asked looking at her watch, which already read midnight, before once more turning to the tall man before her

“Now Drake, perhaps we should just bypass the foreplay and jump straight into the sex” she had said with contempt, seeing the look of understanding cross his eyes as he had laughed throatily back the sound so masculine and pleasant to her ears

“I’m game if you are”

Mia had thrown him another cold look

“Thanks, but no thanks, I’m glad you enjoyed your dance” she said coldly, once again turning to leave as he had given a small chuckle

“Now why are you always so angry with me Mia?” he asked softly “When really you know that you aren’t…what is it your blaming me for” he said before he had pulled her back around and into his arms, his mouth finding hers. Caught off guard, she had frozen for a second before pushing against him as he held her, feeling the desire she seemed totally unable to control rushing to the fore as her hands had held onto him, as her mouth had returned his kiss, their tongues entwining as she had groaned against him. She could feel his arousal against her naked thigh, fully aware of her own body’s reaction as her breasts tightened against the small Basque, the only clothing she wore.

“Give me another chance Mia” he had groaned softly against her ear, his words suddenly snapping her out of the trance she was in, as she had pushed him away from her, her eyes flashing with the confusion and desire she felt. Suddenly caught off balance Drake had let her go, his eyes mirroring the desire his body clearly showed, as she had found herself free and with a small whimper she had quickly moved from the room seeing how he had continued to watch her, until the door had closed behind her.

Drake had let out a small breath of air, his hand thumping the wall in frustration as he had watched her leave, his fingers running through his hair as he had fought to bring his breathing back under control, before he had stood deep in thought his hands thrust deeply into his pockets. Her kiss had been dynamite, and as she had exploded beneath him he had been stunned by his own reaction and need to have so much more, angrily he had hissed at himself.

“Way to go Drake”

From a small room, Jake Black had watched and listened to the exchanges between the two on the television which picked up the signal from the small camera in the room. He had smiled seeing the obvious desire for her the tall man held and in his devious mind a plan had begun to form. Finally he had found a weakness in Drake Tent and he was going to use it to get what he wanted.

As Drake left the room Jake Black had sidled up to him.

“Was everything to your satisfaction” he was asked by the shorter man, who he had taken an instant dislike to

“Everything was fine Mr Black” he had responded, not wanting to add more as he had made to move past him. However, the man had continued to move in front of him causing Drake to pull up, frowning angrily at the other man

“Good. I wondered if you would be interested in coming to my house this week-end for a small party I’m throwing” he had said, his eyes watching the man before him

As Drake had made to shake his head he had added

“It’s just a small affair, myself a few people in the hotel and entertainment business and some of the girls…including Mia” he added his smile making his meaning very clear

“It will be her first time at my house; I like to reward the girls for their efforts.. show them a good time” he whined.

Drake Trent was very clear about what was being offered, a loud voice at the back of his head warning him about getting too close to Jake Black, while not liking the thought of any woman being offered to him like some kind of speciality dish, particularly when that woman was Mia, but somehow, the thought of her ending up with somebody else filling him with an uneasiness which he was not able to fully understand. After the kiss they had just shared, he was determined that no other man would be enjoying Mia that week-end and with a smile which did not reach his eyes he had accepted the offer from the man before him.

“I like to bring my technician with me though” Drake had added, seeing the look of confusion on the other mans face

“Last year somebody tried to bug my room” he said his face sombre “So I like to take precautions”

Jake Black had looked at him with a hurt expression

“surely you don’t think I would….” He began before Drake had cut over him

“Of course not…but you would be amazed how often other guests or employees like to take advantage” he said with a small smile

“I really must insist….or..”

Jake Black had smiled back

“Whatever makes you comfortable Mr Trent” he had said watching as the other man had nodded, before taking down the details and leaving.

With a curse, he had stood thinking. Damn the man, it was almost as though he had read his mind. This would take some more thought, but Jake Black was not somebody who gave up easily, and having him there to start with was a beginning, and Jake had known that he would figure out something, some way to get something on the tall arrogant man who made him feel so inferior, hating men like Drake Trent he had savoured the knowledge that soon he would be singing a very different tune.

In the changing room all alone, Mia had paced up and down, her hands wringing at her side. What the hell had just happened in there she kept asking herself wildly as she had remembered the feel of his hands on her and the possession of his mouth on hers. As a shiver had moved through her she had groaned at the way she wanted more, chastising herself. Hearing the sound of footsteps coming towards her, she had sat down quickly lifting a brush to look busy.

“Mia… you were great” Jake Black had enthused, “wonderful…and to show you how much I appreciate your help, I want to invite you to a party at my place this week-end”

“A party” she asked with suspicion, “What kind of party”

He had smiled at her “I invite friends over once a year to stay for the whole week-end, they bring their wives or significant others…do you have a boyfriend you want to bring” he had asked warily

Mia had shaken her head, comforted by the thought that it was to be a couple event

“Not to worry, it should be a good week-end, good clean fun, a car will pick you up tomorrow at 9 in the morning, OK,” he said as she had nodded her head before handing her a list of clothes to bring.

“Thanks again Mia” he said as he turned to leave, a large smile on his face

Mia’s heart had jumped. She was being invited to his house with no strings attached. It all seemed too good to be true, and suddenly she hadn’t minded doing the lap dance for Drake Trent. Finally she would be able to search his house for the letter. With a wide smile on her face she had made her way home to tell her sister the good news, carefully leaving out the incident with Drake, not fully understanding why.

That night Sarah and Mia had looked over the list. On it she required to bring 3 cocktail dresses, which Sarah had managed to find from the outfits she had worn at the many social functions she had been expected to attend with Adam. Mia had tried on the dresses, choosing 3 which seemed to fit her best. While she and Sarah were the same height, Mia was more curvatious than her sister, and the dresses had fitted neatly at the chest, causing her to look even more stunning as she wore them

Sarah had whistled

“Wow, Mia, wish I had looked like that in those outfits” she had said with a note of envy as her sister had giggled

“God compared to what I normally wear at the club, these are positively granyish”

They had also laid out bikinis and clothes for the day time enjoying the act of packing as they laughed excitedly. When she had finished packing she had gone to bed to rise early the next day to wait for the car.

As it had arrived, the driver knocking on her door, Sarah had hugged Mia

“Now remember Mia, don’t take any chances, and if things get bad then get the hell out of there.. Adam and I will find a way” she said with concern in her eyes. Mia had given her a warm smile

“Don’t worry, I’d be out of there so quick you wouldn’t see me for dust” she had said before leaving the flat and entering the car.

Chapter Five

The journey had taken nearly two hours, and with concern Mia had had no idea where they where. She had expected them to be going to his town house, but was surprised to find herself stepping out into the manicured lawns of a grand mansion deep in the countryside. With a small grimace she wondered which of his blackmail victims had paid for this place seeing the large gardens enclosed within a large wall which kept prying eyes from seeing what was going on within the grounds. Not that there were many prying eyes she realised, as the house was so isolated, feeling the prickles of wariness on the back of her lovely neck.

As she moved forward Jake had rushed towards her with a woman she didn’t know

“Mia, like you to meet Mary” he had said pulling the young nervous woman forward. Mary was about the same age as she was with lovely red hair which fell around her supple body. Dressed in a skimpy bikini, Mary had looked scared to be there leaning close to Jake as he had talked.

“Your bags will be taken up to your room. Why not grab a bikini and join everybody” he had said before grabbing Mary from the rear and moving away towards the large swimming pool already full of men and women.

Mia had looked uneasily at the pool side. With a frown she had seen how the six men and six women were loudly flirting with each other around the large pool with waiters moving around liberally dispensing drink to everybody. Mia doubted if many of the women were wives as she had recognised some of the faces from the club, the faces of those girls closest to Jake, who were attentively talking to a variety of middle aged men, who were already reaching for many of the girls, their hands over familiar for her liking. Mia had felt her stomach knot as she realised that she had been duped, and with a determined lift of her chin, had moved into the house with the intent to stay away from the pool and the many wandering hands for as long as she could, until she had had the chance to search the house and get out of there.

As she had moved inside, Mia started to search the ground floor while the house was relatively quiet. She had to find where his study was, deciding that it was the most likely place for the letter to be hidden. As she had moved into a grand living area she had gasped to see Drake Trent, standing playing pool.

Hearing her, he had turned around, his face taking in the look of shock on hers, while his body had reacted to the sight of her

“What are you doing here” she had asked with a look of horror on her face

He had smiled softly at her

“I was invited for a relaxing week-end by your boss” he had said evenly, watching her face as she had looked so confused at his presence there.

Mia had moved further into the room, to look out of the window to see if everybody was still occupied her eyes scanning the pool area to make sure that Jake and his two security boys, Jim and Allan were still busy.

“So you do work for Jake” she asked her tone contemptuous not seeing how his eyebrows had arched in surprise

“Hardly” he had answered “Do I look like I work for him” he had said a note of disdain in his voice

Mia had shrugged not looking at him “You’re here aren’t you” she said

“No, Mia I don’t work for Jake Black” he had said with a hard note to his voice which she had been surprised to hear as she continued to look out of the window so that he wouldn’t see the myriad of emotions which where rushing through her at his presence

“So why are you here then” she asked, feeling her whole body pulsing at his presence

“Your boss wants something from me…so he thought he would try to butter me up”

Mia had quickly looked over at him taking in his casual attire, the jeans which moulded perfectly to his slim hips and the tea-shirt which accentuated the long lean lines of his back and contoured body. Dropping her eyes at the sudden sensations which ran through her she had turned back to resume her search.

“So how did he get you here” she had muttered angrily still looking through the throng of bodies at the pool

“He dangled something in front of me that he knew I wanted” came back the reply

With a small laugh she had asked “Oh yeah, what was that” her eyes finally resting on Jake

There was a small silence before he had said so softly “You”

Mia had spun around her eyes full of shocked

“Me” she gasped before her whole body had become rigid with anger

“I don’t think so” she bit out “I am not some little love toy for him to pass around to his friends” she had said those wonderful eyes sparkling with rage

“So I am very sorry Mr Trent, but he has got you here under false pretences, I am not about to fall into bed with you so that Jake can butter you up”

Drake Trent had smiled, while inside he had felt as light as a feather. The thought that she had been prepared to sleep with him by command had not sat well with him, and the fact that she had so obviously been tricked had brought a sense of relief to him. The Mia he knew, no matter how fleetingly, would never have allowed herself to be used like that, but he had been confused by her agreement to dance for him at the club, as he had been sure she would have told him to go to hell.

She had started to move forward

“I am not staying here one more damn minute” she said as she made to move past him, suddenly feeling the need to put as much distance between them as possible

Drake had grabbed her by the shoulders stopping her in mid stride

“Wait, just wait one minute” he said softly

Looking at his hands on her shoulders she had once more felt the strange sensations travelling through her body, biting her lip as she had looked at him her eyes like pieces of flint

“Take your hands off me” she said in a low dangerous tone

“Ok, Mia, but will you hear me out” he asked looking down on her “I promise that I am not about to leap on you and molest you”

Mia had stood still her eyes still watching him warily as he dropped his hands from her

“Yesterday at the club he invited me to this week-end, telling me that you would be here to entertain the guests” he said with an unpleasant twist of his lip. “I couldn’t believe that you would go along willingly with that.. so I came along to make sure that nothing bad happened to you” he said “I only came because I was worried about you”

Mia had looked at him in disbelief

“Why didn’t you just phone me to tell me what he had planned” she asked coldly, “you had my number”

He had looked down at her with a sombre look on his face

“Would you have answered …or even believed me” he asked quietly

Mia had frowned, knowing that she would not have answered.

“Why did you come here” he asked her gently “surely you must have guessed what he had planned”

Frowning, she had lifted her hand to push the hair away from her eyes as she had suddenly looked so bleak

“I had my reasons” she said softly “But I really thought it was an up front party… not..not some kind of gang bang”

As he watched she had looked so tired and deflated as she had sat down on the leather couch. Looking at her he had thought how defeated she looked, and he felt a pang of compassion towards the beautiful woman before him

She had gently said “I needed to be here, but now…” she had bit her lip feeling as the tears had started to rise at the realisation that she would not be able to search the house, realising that of all the places she had seen this was the most likely place for him to have hidden the letter. She had frowned as he had moved over to sit beside her

“There is one way that you could make it through this week-end unmolested” he had said seriously as Mia had looked at him in surprise

“How”

He had smiled grimly “pretend to be with me” he said, adding as the cold look had once again returned to her eyes

“I promise that I will not take advantage of the situation… I would much rather pursue our relationship in a more private and intimate setting… not under the watchful eye of Jake Black” he had said his dark eyes very serious

She had looked at him, her eyes uncertain

“We don’t have a relationship” she had replied, her mouth breaking into a gently smile as he had added

“Yet…, but Mia I would like to try to have one…..starting as friends” he had quickly added, before looking at her sombrely

“I don’t think that he is going to just let you walk out of here Mia, and I’m not sure how you will be able to call for a taxi, this place seems to be in a damn mobile black spot. By being my date, he will leave you alone….and more importantly so will everybody else… and despite what you might think I can control myself”

Looking over she could see only a truthful honesty in his face, which she had smiled gently at

“Thank you Drake”

Hearing her say those words and speaking his name so gently caused something deep within him to flip flop as he had once more stood and turned back to his game, the need to look away so she did not see the look of want in his face strong

“Want to play” he asked finally smiling over at her, seeing as she had sat so still on the couch, the many emotions all crossing her lovely face, before she had seemed to make up her mind and looked back at him.

“I didn’t fancy hanging around the pool myself” he had added glancing out of the window at the party taking place by the poolside.

Mia had smiled standing up

“Me neither” she agreed, before moving over to where he stood and with a laugh admitting that she had never played before

Drake had given her the pool queue offering to show her as they leant over the table, his arms around her, as he had shown her how to hold the queue. Mia had laughed at how badly she was doing, while very aware of his body against hers as warm tremors passed through her.

This was the scene which met Jake Black, who had smiled widely seeing the two of them so intimately together already.

“Drake, Mia” he cried “I see you two are getting along” he smiled, giving Drake a knowing look “Not joining the party”. The two had stood, but Drake had continued to hold her within his arms, squeezing her shoulder reassuringly

“I think we are quite happy right here” he had said his voice soft against Mia’s hair “You know what they say Jake… threes a crowd”

Jake Black had laughed unpleasantly back winking at Mia

“I get you Drake….enjoy” he said his voice full of innuendo, as he had once more left the room.

Breathing a sigh of relief Mia had moved away from Drake, suddenly realising she missed feeling him against her.

“That was close”

He in turn was looking at her with a small frown on his face

“Why do you work for him” he asked, seeing the shutters go down on her lovely eyes

“I have my reasons” she said firmly

“And they are” he asked gently

“Private” she bit back, looking at him with an expression which told him to back off. With a small sigh Drake had put down the queue, his face watching hers attentively

“OK, Mia Jones” he smiled “maybe one day you will trust me enough to tell me what the hell is going on.. until then fancy a walk”

Mia had flashed him a grin back “A walk sounds great” she said realising that she could use this as an opportunity to scout out the area.

As the two had moved together around the large estate Mia had suddenly wondered again why he was there, Drake had said Jake wanted something from him and she found herself wondering what would be so important to Jake to make him go to all this trouble.

“Why did he invite you here” she had asked him her large blue eyes questioning seeing how Drake had looked down on her, his face thoughtful

“You really don’t know who I am” he said gently as she had shaken her head

“All I know about you Drake Trent is that you like flowers…a lot” she had grinned, as he had laughed back with her, before looking warily at her

“I own a large chain of hotels” he said softly, hearing as she had gasped the name Trent and hotels suddenly connecting with her. She had looked sharply up at him in shock

“Trent Hotels ….. that’s you” she said her face showing her surprise, as she had frowned with concern stopping to face him

“Drake you have to get out of here” she said anxiously, her lovely eyes flashing with real fear “You don’t know Jake Black. He’s a blackmailer. If he has brought you here then he will be looking for some way to get something on you”

“I know that” came back the gentle reply, as she had gasped again

“If you know that then why did you come” she cried looking into his eyes with confusion

“I told you why” he said softly, hearing as she had groaned gently “And besides I was worried that he was going to use you if not with me then with somebody else..and I couldn’t stomach that”

Mia had stood speechlessly staring at Drake who was watching all the different emotions crossing through her eyes as she had savaged her lip, before dropping her head hiding her confusion from him.

“Like I said Mia, I didn’t want to see you get hurt”

As Mia had looked down silently, his hands had come up to cup her face, raising her head to look up at him. She watched as his head had bent to meet hers, her lips opening to receive his kiss, as a soft groan had left her mouth. Just as before, she had erupted under him, her kiss just as passionate as his as their tongues had once more entwined, her mouth drawing on his every bit as longingly as his was on hers, as she gently bit his lips causing him to groan with desire. As she had snaked her arms around his neck, his had gone around her waist drawing her closer to him, so that she could feel his arousal against her driving her wild with a desire she had never before felt. She could feel his hands moving around her body, stroking her bottom making her gasp softly, and as he had leant her against a tree his mouth moving to kiss along her jaw and neck, she had felt like she would explode with a need to have him make love to her. Her back had arched as he had pulled her waist higher to gain better access to her breasts his hands moving to softly rub the hard nipple which strained against her top making her shudder violently against him, his fingers moving the neckline of her wrap around shirt to reveal one perfect breast, as he released it from the confines of the lacy bra, his tongue causing instant sensations which shot through her to finish pulsing between her legs. Mia had felt her own hands exploring him, as she had pulled his tee-shirt up to allow her fingers to touch his back sensually stroking his spine, feeling him shudder under her

They could both feel themselves drowning in their need for each other when a sudden high squeal cry had brought them both around. Pulling back from her, his face showing the immense control it took to let her go along with the smouldering fires in his eyes, which told of his need for her he had started to apologise

“I’m sorry Mia.. I didn’t mean to” he said before seeing the fire in her eyes. Groaning at the sudden need to return to her, he had stepped further back from her looking away so as not to see the way her large blue eyes stared back at him with such need, her lips so red from his kisses her chest rising as she tried to get her breathing back under control her hair tousled falling over her shoulders all screaming at him of her desire for him at that moment.

After a few seconds, she had busied herself fixing her clothing before pushing herself from the tree and started to move quickly back towards the house, walking slightly ahead of him

“It’s almost dinner” she said her eyes refusing to meet his as her hands clenched and unclenched at her side

“We better get ready”

Silently Drake had followed, his eyes watching the young woman with confused concern in them. He had never wanted a woman so much that he had been unable to control himself, but Mia Jones was tearing down his self control and he couldn’t fully understand why. While tough on the outside, he could see the vulnerability in her, and he wanted so much to pull her into his arms and keep her safe, frowning at this need which had nothing to do with his own self gratification.

In the safety of her room, Mia had sat down on her bed her head in her hands in total confusion. This had been the third time he had kissed her and she had responded even more passionately than the first times. With a groan, she yelled at herself to focus. To concentrate on why she was there, to help free Adam and make sure that he and her sister could once more be together, not to lose herself in the overwhelming attraction she felt towards Drake Trent.

She remembered his kisses, the feel of his body against her and she had moaned with pain. She had never before felt such sensations, not even with Ben. Remembering Ben, she had smiled sadly, as the memories had flooded over her. She and Ben had been so happy together, until..she had felt the small tear in her eyes, the first she had shed for nearly a year. With a soft sad sigh she had risen from the bed to get ready for dinner that night, once more pushing the memories down.

As she had finished her hair, pulling it into a soft bun, which accentuated her long graceful neck Mia had heard her door knock. With a soft frown she had answered the door, surprised to see Drake

“I thought I would escort you to dinner” he said seductively as she had looked over him in appreciation, admiring how attractive he looked in his black suit, his dark eyes flashing warmly at her

“Stop any of the other guests trying to move in on you, especially given how beautiful you look” he added, seeing how stunning she did indeed look in the full length blue cocktail dress, which showed her wonderful figure to its best

Mia had smiled at him moving from the room to take his arm

“Why thank you kind sir” she mocked him, with a small smile playing on her lips, while deep down touched by his kindness

In the dining room they were met by the other guests. Most middle aged men the other six were enjoying the attentions of the young women whom they had obviously selected during the earlier pool party. The women had looked at Drake with hunger in their eyes, one of the girls sidling over to Mia to whisper in her ear “Wow, you lucked out girl” as her eyes had moved over Drake, before looking at her partner and with a small laugh adding “Wanna swap”, as Mia had given a nervous half laugh. It was not only the women who had noticed Drake, as the men had stopped when he had entered, surprised to see Drake Trent at one of Jake Black’s week-ends.

With a soft groan Drake could see the way they had looked at each other, seeing the greedy lights enter their eyes as many had looked at it as an obvious opportunity to get something out of him. As they had milled around enjoying pre-dinner drinks, Drake had kept Mia close by his side, refusing to talk business with any of the other guests, most of who had at some point moved over to try to discuss a variety of business opportunities with him.

Mia was impressed at the way he seemed to be able to handle the pushy men, able to deftly side step them with authority, which defied them to keep pushing him. She realised that Drake Trent was a shrewd, and she suspected ruthless business man, making his interest in her even more surprising. He could have any woman he wanted she had thought to herself with a frown, including any of the other women in the room, so she could not understand why he was pursuing her so hard, unless she had reasoned to herself he enjoyed the chase and once he had achieved what he wanted would move on. The thought of this did not so much anger her, as much as make her feel sad and once again she could not understand her feelings.

The dinner was delicious, and she had smiled softly to herself seeing how Jake had ensured that they were seated together, placing one of his most beautiful dancers on the other side of Drake. Mia had felt an uneasy jealous sensation, surprising herself at this emotion; Drake Trent was nothing to her she once more told herself, feeling a slight flush rising to her cheek as she remembered their kiss. After dinner they had moved to another room, in which Jake had set up a small dance floor to which the girls had pulled their dates onto.

During the meal and throughout the whole night, the glasses of all the guests had been continuously filled, and many of the men, who had spent the day drinking at the pool, where already boisterous and drunk. Mia had felt sickened by the way they where pawing so obviously at the women, who laughed encouragingly at them. As Drake had pulled her onto the dance floor, he had smiled encouragingly down at her, as she had realised that he, like her, was sober, having drank very little from their glasses, choosing instead to sip water. As she looked around her, her face barely concealing her contempt as he had whispered softly into her ear

“You OK”

Making her look into his eyes, smiling reassuringly back

“I’m fine”

She had felt as his hands had splayed over her back, as he had held her closely too him, his cheek against her hair, as she had fought the desire to sigh contentedly being in his arms

“Want to get out of here” he had asked as they had only just avoided one of the other couples who had drunkenly fallen close to them, saved by Drake’s quick action as he had managed to pull them safely from their path, causing her to nod with relief.

Together they had moved out of the room in which the loud laughs could be heard and with a frown Drake had looked at her apologetically

“I need to make a phone call”

He had said softly

“My people have instructions to send a car for me if they don`t hear from me before midnight”

Looking at his watch he had grimaced

“Better make that call fast” he had chuckled, as they had moved from room to room, exploring the downstairs, as he looked for a phone, this suiting Mia more than she cared to admit, happy to let it be

“I have to call my office” he had said “My mobile doesn’t seem to work here” he had added with a grimace

Mia had been happy to follow him, finally able to continue her search knowing that Jake would be fine with Drake using the Office, whereas he would have been furious to find her there. As they had moved into another room she was relieved to finally have found the room, given a soft smile.

Drake had picked up the phone and made two calls. The first to an unknown employee, in which he had cancelled the car, laughing with the person at how fine he had cut the call, before flashing her a grin and making ``won`t be a moment`` hand signals at her before quickly calling his answer service. Mia had smiled back at him, mouthing take your time as she had been relieved for the opportunity to study the room, looking for anywhere that might contain a safe. As she had moved around the office she had lifted the edges of pictures, as she had seen in movies, finally rewarded by a clicking from one, as it had opened on hinges. Looking over she had seen Drake looking away as he still listened attentively to his messages and she had closed over the painting for later.

At that point Jake had moved into the room, instantly seeing Mia, his face less than happy at her presence in his office, not at that point having seen Drake

“Mia, what are you doing here” he hissed at her, his eyes cold daggers of accusation

She had looked back at him, an innocent expression on her face

“Drake needed to make a call…his mobile doesn’t work here” she had replied, as Jake had turned finally seeing the taller man who was just finishing his call, replacing the hand set, his expression instantly changing

“I’m sorry Jake….didn’t think you would mind” he had said with an arrogant note in his voice which portrayed the fact that he didn’t care if he did

“Hey Drake…no problem, anything else you need internet, fax… just let me know” before he had looked shiftily at the taller man

“While you’re here, perhaps we could talk about my proposal”

Drake had shaken his head, seeing the hard look enter the other mans eyes

“Not this week-end Jake…it's all about fun remember” he said before adding with a knowing smile “However, Monday at my office, my secretary will wait for your call and set you up for an appointment when we can talk properly” he had said conspiratorially as Jakes face had beamed with pleasure.

“Sounds good” Jake had cried, elated that his plan was working so well. Still he had looked calculatingly at Mia, it never hurt to have some security.

As they made their way out of the office most of the others were also making their way upstairs in groups of two, many having to be helped up by their dates for the weekend. As they had followed walking up quietly together, Drake had slipping his hand into hers and squeezing it reassuringly

“Are you really going to meet with him on Monday” she had asked softly, her eyes looking into his.

He had frowned “I hope not to have to” he finally answered as they reached the top of the stairs and he had turned her to face him

“I hope that whatever is going on Mia that you will have dealt with it by the end of this week-end…or at least agree to get the hell away from him…. He is dangerous”

She had looked deeply into his eyes, his expression stern, as she had nodded.

“I hope so too” she said softly, hoping with all her heart that she was right. As he had walked her to her room Jake had moved passed them, frowning slightly to see Mia going to her own room, but wishing them both a good night.

With a grin Drake had kissed her forehead softly sending small tremors through her as he had wished her a pleasant sleep, with a return smile she had wished him the same, part of her wanting to open her door wider and invite him in. However, she knew what she had to do that night, and moving back into her room she had closed the door gently on him, hearing his footsteps as they slowly moved away to whichever room was his.

Chapter Six

Mia had waited until two in the morning when there was no sounds in the house. Wearing a pair of jogging trousers and a black tee-shirt she had crept silently out of her room, creeping stealthily down the grand stairs to the study. At the bottom of the stairwell she had frozen hearing the wooden floor boards creak gently, sure that everybody in the whole building would be able to hear her heart beating so noisily within her chest. When there had been no movement, she had exhaled, once more moving forward

Silently she had once more made her way to the study, leaving the door slightly open so that she could hear any movements in the hallway. With only the light from the window in which the moon streamed in, she had pulled open the picture looking at the combination lock before her. Pulling out the stethoscope securely placed within her pocket she had fitted it to her ear to listen for the clicks as she had moved the dial around twice before starting. As she listened, she had begun to panic, aware that she couldn’t hear any clicks. When she had done this in his office, it had been straight forward, but this safe was different, and with panic she realised that she couldn’t open it. As she moved the dial, she was suddenly aware of a small alarm sounding in one of the rooms off the main hall, hardly audible, realising that she must have triggered the security by selecting an incorrect number.

With a muttered curse she had pushed the painting closed once more, and had ran out of the study to once more head back up the stairs. Reaching the top of the hallway she had made to go along the corridor back to her own room, but had gasped with shock as she had heard noises coming from that direction. With a small curse she had run in the opposite direction, suddenly finding herself with nowhere else to go trapped at the end of the hallway. Looking frantically around she had moved to quietly pull open the last of the doors praying that the room would be empty.

As she stood with her back to the door in the darkness, with her heart beating like a drum, she had heard the tell tale sound of someone sitting up in the bed, as her heart had sank like a stone in her stomach. With shock, a light had gone on, flooding the room with light, and with relief she had seen Drake looking at her with surprise, his eyes still blurry as they tried to adjust to the light, his hair tousled from sleeping.

“Mia, what the hell are you doing” he asked taking in the way she was dressed and standing in a blind panic against the door. She had lifted her hand for him to be quiet and to kill the light, as he had complied, once more plunging the room into darkness, as she had opened the door a crack to see what was going on in the hallway. Mia could see Jake and his two security men moving down the corridor, Jake obviously angry at something.

“Find her” he had hissed at the men as he had begun to knock on the doors, moving into the rooms as they were answered.

She had suddenly became aware of Drake standing behind her wearing only a pair of silken pyjama bottoms his face solemn as he had taken in the scene and the way she was panicking

“They must be looking for you” he said softly, seeing the way she was frozen with fear, and with a firm voice he had taken control of the situation

“Take off your clothes and get into bed” he said, his voice strong and sure

Mia had looked at him with horror snapping her out of her reverie

“I am not going to bed with you” she had whispered angrily back at him, her eyes flashing

Drake had looked back at her with annoyance

“Would you rather they found you outside your own room” he said “Somehow, I don’t think your boss is going to mind finding you here…it’s the only way” he had added “unless you would rather take your chances with them”

Quickly Mia had kicked off her shoes, as she had heard a knock on the door, pulling her top, bra and leggings off before jumping into his bed, her arms going around her legs to hug them as her hair fell around her protectively

Drake had not even looked in her direction as he had called

“What do you want” his voice sounding annoyed

“Drake we have to come in, there has been a break in”

The unmistakable sound of Jakes whiney voice could be heard through the door.

He had waited a few seconds before moving back over to the door and opening it

Jake had looked at him his face full of apologies “I’m sorry, but we had better search your room…. In case” he added

Drake had looked at him with annoyance and a grim determination

“I don’t think so Jake, nobody has been in my room all night except…” his voice had stopped, as he had let the door open slightly wider allowing Jake to see Mia sitting up in the bed with the sheet wrapped around her top

“If anybody had tried to slip in here…we would have known about it”

Jake had looked at him apologetically, taking in Mia’s presence there, as he had smiled

“Sorry to have disturbed you” he spoke before stepping back and allowing Drake to close the door behind him.

As the door had closed Mia had thrown herself backwards feeling the relief flooding through her entire body.

“Thank you” she had whispered as he had come over to join her, his face grim as he hunched down at the side of the bed to look her in the eyes.

“Ok Mia, what the hell is going on” he had said softly “You barge into my room at 2.30 in the morning in a blind panic being chased by Jake and his henchmen” he bit out

“I think now that I deserve to know what is going on… don’t you”

Mia had looked at him, her whole face torn by her need to keep her secret and her desire to share it with him

“Did you ever think that perhaps I could help” he had added softly, seeing as with that she had sighed her large blue eyes solemnly holding his as slowly she told him the story of Adam and Sarah.

“I know that it is in that safe” she had moaned her eyes looking up at the ceiling “I just know it”

“So now you’re a safe breaker” he had said with a small hint of laughter in his voice, as she had giggled gently

“Not a good one… my friend gave me some training…. But I just couldn’t figure out how to open that one… not without the numbers”

She had sighed softly

“I’m so sorry to have dragged you into all this Drake” she said gently as he had stood back up beside her at the side of the bed. For the first time she had taken in that he was naked from the waist up, and she had found herself staring at his wonderful torso, so muscular on the shoulders and arms with rough hair splattered on his chest. She had seen the long lean contoured hardness of his chest and the way his stomach muscles led down to a v at his hips. She had looked away as she felt the desire for him filling her once more, before he had caught her look, feeling very much the same knowing that she wore nothing in his bed. Seeing how beautiful she looked with her soft warm blue eyes looking up at him her long dark hair framing her beautiful face and soft silky skin he had looked around for something to take his mind off her, aware of his own body’s reaction.

Seeing her top lying on the floor he had picked it up passing it too Mia, as she had thanked him pulling it back on, with a little confusion in her eyes.

“It’s OK Mia” he replied “But you know that you can’t go back to your room now don’t you”. Mia had nodded softly, with a grin adding

“I trust you Drake”

Hearing her say this had sent strange sensations through him, knowing how hard it was for her to trust people.

“Good, so can I lie down beside you” he asked seeing the fleeting look of concern cross her face

“Promise, I just want to sleep…and maybe talk” he said gently, seeing the look of acceptance from her as she opened the sheets for him. Slipping in beside her he had fought hard to control the sudden desire to take her in his arms as he had done that afternoon, knowing that neither of them would be able to stop if he did.

Lying down beside each other, Drake had spoke softly in the darkness

“So have you always been a dancer, or did you have a life before that” making Mia chuckle, a soft noise which sounded so pleasant to his ears, as she told him about her law degree, and how she had given up the chance to work with one of the most prestigious law companies in the capitol to help her sister and Adam.

With a soft sigh he had been impressed, instantly recognising it as the company he used, wondering if they had always been destined to meet as she had given a small sad sigh “I don’t suppose they will want to hire an ex-pole dancer now”

“I could put in a good word for you if you like” he offered, frowning at the realisation that he had broken his own rule not to use his connections for a woman’s gain, realising that for her he would make an exception. However, she had replied softly

“That’s really kind of you Drake… but I really would rather do this myself..I hope you don’t mind” she said as he had smiled in the darkness

“What about you” she asked softly “apart from being an incredibly rich and wealthy person, who has interests in florists, what else can you tell me about Drake Trent”

He had laughed at her mocking tone, but shrugged his shoulders

“Not much to tell, I spend my time moving around the world looking after my hotel interests”

Mia had given a small whistle “Wow, your right… not much to tell… no family, ex-wives, children” she asked

Frowning in the darkness he had shaken his head “nope… nobody” the realisation suddenly hitting him. Although he had more wealth than anybody else he knew, for the first time he had suddenly felt alone. He had never cared before; always busy with his work, but now for some reason this thought had bothered him. Pushing the feelings to the side he had looked over at her

“What about you…. Any ex-boyfriend, ex-husband…. Children” he asked noting how silent she had suddenly become, her silence suddenly worrying him

“I was engaged once” she said softly much to his surprise

“Was” he asked gently pushing her for more information

“About a year ago. His name was Ben” She paused for a second before continuing “Ben was killed by a drunk driver while he was walking home… we lived together” she had said so sadly that he had lifted himself onto his side to look down on her

“I’m sorry… I didn’t mean to upset you”

Mia had looked sadly back at him, suddenly wanting to put her hand up to his cheek to take away the look of guilt on his face. Biting her lip she had held her arm still

“It was a long time ago” she said softly before giving a soft yawn as the tiredness had suddenly swamped her

Seeing this, he had lain back down

“Go to sleep Mia” he whispered softly, as her eyes had closed and she had fallen asleep beside him, her soft breathing so pleasant to hear beside him. With a small frown he had lain beside her for several moments more, playing back everything she had told him. Feeling complete respect for the young woman beside him, the way she had sacrificed her own promising career for her sister and her determination to make it on her own. Drake Trent had never met a woman like Mia and he struggled to understand all the emotions churning around inside him before falling asleep himself.

The next morning Mia had woken, finding herself cuddled into Drake, her head on his shoulder her arm resting on his waist as his arm had rested around her shoulders, holding her in tightly against him.. Looking groggily around herself with confusion as to where she was, she had felt a strange sudden pleasure at being in his arms, not fully understanding the feelings coursing through her body but aware of the way she was reacting to his closeness.

Feeling her stirring he had woken aware smiling gently down at her

“Good morning” he said softly against her hair

Raising herself to look down on him she had smiled, looking down at his handsome face, suddenly feeling such a strong need within her as she had leaned forward to gently touch his lips with her own.

Drake had moaned a masculine animal sound at the back of throat as his hands had snaked around her, one at her back and the other holding the back of her head as he had deepened the kiss. Mia had kissed him back the passion within her rising like a tidal wave with her need for him at that moment.

As he rolled over taking her with him, he had covered her body with his own hearing how she had moaned gently against him, her hands running up his back in a way which was sending shivers throughout him. With all the will power he could muster Drake had pulled his mouth from hers, hearing as she had whimpered for his return feeling how he held himself back

“No Mia, I promised you I wouldn’t” he said “Not here” he groaned his eyes tortured as he pulled himself from her with the last piece of resolve he pocessed. As her eyes had opened she had looked up at him, her eyes so confused as she had reached up her hand to caress his cheek so gently that he had groaned again with a raw need for her unable to stop himself as his head had moved back towards hers just as a soft knock on the door had broken the spell between them

“Breakfast in 40 minutes for anybody interested” a soft voice called, making them both fall back laughing. As they had recovered she had moved from the bed pulling on the rest of her clothes, before blowing him a kiss and leaving his room to quickly return to her own, unaware of Jake watching from the corner of the corridor.

30 minutes later as she left her room, showered and washed, Jake Black had caught her before she could enter the dining room.

“A word Mia” he said indicating that she should follow him into his office. Mia’s heart had begun to beat wildly, what if he knew, what if someone had seen her. With her mouth dry she had slowly followed him, trying to stop her trembling hands from being seen

“Is there something wrong Mr Black” she asked, her voice hesitant. He had however, smiled at her with the sickly look she despised

“Wrong, of course not Mia.. We’re all adults here” he had said with obvious reference to what he believed to have happened the night before.

“No, I just wanted to talk to you about your future” he said, his eyes cold while his lips smiled slyly

Mia had watched him, her eyes wary

“I need you to do me a favour” he continued “but I’ll pay you well” he said brightly

“How well” she asked suspiciously, seeing as he had grinned back his eyes flashing triumphantly

“One hundred thousand pounds well” came back the answer, as her eyes had widened with shock

Mia had stood silently watching him and waiting to hear more

“All you have to do is take this bag” he lifted a small handbag onto the table beside him

“And tonight when you and Drake…” he paused his eyes looking at her appreciatively “Well you know… I want you to tape what happens”

Mia had looked at him with shock, her eyes even wider “You want me to film us having sex” she finally managed to breath

Jake had smiled back at her his expression so greasy she felt sick

“Yes, but you will be very well paid for your performance” he replied, as though that made it OK.

Mia had looked at him thoughtfully.

“I want half up front” she had finally answered in as cold a voice as she could muster, rewarded to see as Jake had looked more than just a little taken aback

“You want fifty thousand pounds today” he said in disbelief

“Yes” she replied “Or maybe you can’t get your hands on that kind of money”

He had dropped his smile, his eyes cold as he pulled her towards the picture she knew the safe to be in

“Ok Mia” he said slowly “You can have your money, but it had better be one hell of a performance” he said his eyes scanning her, before adding with a lecherous flick of his eyes over her body “Perhaps you and I can play through it later together” he said his meaning very clear

“Perhaps” she replied her hand raised for her money

Jake pulled the picture open and within plain site of her, she had watched him move the dial around to the three numbers she needed, happiness filling her.

As he pulled out fifty thousand pounds, she had taken the bag with the camera and placed the money inside it. He had shown her how to work the device, giving her instructions on how best to position it before he had allowed her to leave.

As the young woman had left his office, he had looked upwards with a thoughtful expression on his face. He wasn’t used to smart women, but Mia Jones was clever. He had never really intended to pay her any money but she had forced him to give her half up front and he felt uneasy about that. However, at that moment in time, she was his one way of getting something on Drake Trent and with an unpleasant smile he had thought how he would bide his time, Drake Trent wouldn’t be around for ever, and then he would make sure that he enjoyed Mia Jones the thought exciting him.

Mia had once more returned to her room, safely storing the money and camera, before moving back down to the dining room, where Drake sat waiting for her. With a broad smile he had pulled back a chair for her, sitting her down on it in a way that had made her smile warmly at him.

“I thought you weren’t coming” he said with a smile on his lips, as Mia had looked back at him

“It takes a long time to look this good” she had answered with a small grin which he had returned nodding making some inane comment about perfection, which had seen her lips twitch gently

“Perhaps after breakfast we could go for a walk” she had said breezily, her eyes holding his with a look which had him agreeing whilst wondering what had happened.

As they had walked through the estate’s beautiful woodland she had began to tell him what had occurred in Jakes study, as he walked beside her listening intently

“Wow a sex video” he said softly “Not exactly original…and what would be the point..it’s not as if I’m married”

Mia had frowned “No, but I bet you wouldn’t want your competitors seeing that splashed all over the headlines and internet” she had said “It probably would look pretty bad for your boards of directors too”. Drake had nodded his head gently

“I guess so” he replied his tone icy but thoughtful

“Well whatever you’re going to do Mia, you had better do it today or tonight because tomorrow we will have to be out of here” he said firmly “and I am damn well not going to leave you here”

Mia had looked at him gently, his need to protect her filling her with warmth

“Do you think that you could get us into his office this afternoon” she had asked as he had nodded

“I think so”

With that the two had returned to the building. Around the pool, the other six male guests lay in various states of exhaustion, most still hung-over from the day before, while their dates lay beside them enjoying the unusually hot summer sun looking bored. As Drake had entered the main foyer, Jake had appeared

“Drake” he cried with a fake smile lighting his face “Sleep well” he asked winking slightly at the taller man

Drake had smiled back “Like a log Jake” he replied “best nights sleep I’ve had for a long time” he added looking down on Mia with a small smile which she had returned, feeling a laugh come to her lips at their shared joke.

“Good..good…anything else I can get for you” the unpleasant man had asked

“I would like to use your office for a while” he said “need to make some personal calls.. check up on some stuff”

Jake had grinned “Hey my home is yours” he had said “feel free” his eyes following them as they entered the study.

As the door had closed she had whispered to him

“Do you think he bugs this room” to which Drake had shaken his head. “No, men like Jake wouldn’t want to have incriminating evidence lying around about them. He wouldn’t have touched this room”

Mia had nodded at the logic of what he had said, and as Drake stood guard at the door she had moved over to the safe quickly opening it. As she had searched through the different documents within the large wall safe, she had given a small cry of delight as she had found the letter directing Adam to take the funds to Jake Black. With shining eyes and a happy smile she had held it up to him in triumph before closing over the safe once more.

With relief Drake had then placed a phone call to his secretary informing her to organise for a helicopter to pick him up early the next morning

“No point in raising his suspicions” he had said firmly as they had both left the room, the incriminating letter securely tucked away in Drakes pocket.

As if by magic Jake had once more appeared

“Everything OK” he asked his eyes thinning as Drake had shaken his head

“I’m afraid not, Jake, I have to go.. urgent business” seeing as Jake had looked suspiciously at the two “Not right away” he had said with forced joviality becoming more relieved as Drake had shaken his head again

“No, first thing in the morning” A helicopter will be arriving for me at seven.

Jake had given Mia a knowing smile as he had opened his arms

“I guess these things happen, eh, but at least you get to relax one last night. The taller man had looked back at him with a smile

“Yep, might as well enjoy it while we can” he said as they walked away smiling. Jake had followed them with a triumphant look in his eyes, thoughts of enjoying Mia even sooner than he intended filling him. Yep life was going well for Jake Black he thought moving out to the pool, as the couple before him had once more moved to walk around the estate.

That evening after dinner, Drake and Mia had once again danced together, watching as the others had once more drank more than they should, many to Mia`s disgust having swapped partners for the evening. As Drake had held her close, Mia had found herself enjoying the scent of him as it invaded her senses, finding herself moving against him more erotically than she had meant to, seeing the way his eyes blazed at her actions. She had wordlessly held his eyes, the electricity between them almost tangible, as they moved against each other around the dance floor.

Seeing the two of them, Jake had ensured that they were left alone, smiling to himself at his plans for Drake Trent. He enjoyed the power of pulling down people so out with his own stratosphere and making them jump to his biddings, and Drake Trent had been tough. It had taken a girl like Mia to pull him down. With a lustful look, he had watched her. From the day she had joined the club, he had planned to bring her here. Planned to one day satisfy himself with her as he had with so many of the other girls, but there had been something different about her, something aloof, which had made him hold back. However, that day, she had shown herself to be just as greedy as anybody else, taking the money in return for the favour he had asked, and now Mia Jones was suddenly very attainable. The next day Drake would be gone, and then she would dance for him and do so much more, with this thought Jake Black had smiled once more to himself.

At 11, as the other guests were becoming loud and boisterous, Drake had wished goodnight to everybody, holding Mia’s hand as he led her upstairs. Following close behind Jake had watched from the end of the corridor as they had both moved into his bedroom together, seeing with a smile how Mia held the handbag in her arms, and with a grin he had once more returned to what was left of the party downstairs.

Inside his room, Drake had smiled at the beautiful woman before him

“So far, so good” he said gently, as she had smiled back at him

His eyes once more looked at how lovely she looked in the red cocktail dress, which clung to her perfect body and while he had taken in all this, he had found himself more focused on her lovely eyes which shone brightly as she had smiled, that wonderful smile which completely lit up her face. She was smiling now, and he had felt his stomach flip flopping, his mind wondering why she should have such an affect on him.

“Yep, so far” she laughed her eyes shy as she had tried not to stare back appreciating how handsome he looked.

As he had moved over to the drinks cabinet at one end of the room, he had poured himself a whisky and her a brandy, smiling as he made a toast

“To freedom” he said as she flashed another smile at him

“Ok, Miss Jones” he said lowering his glass from his mouth

“We know that we can share a bed like adults, so what side do you want” he quipped playfully at her. With a small grimace Mia had looked down on what she was wearing

“Do you think I’m overdressed” she laughed seeing how he had moved over to a drawer before pulling out a tee-shirt which he handed to her.

“This might be better” he smiled gently, as she had moved into the ensuite bathroom to change.

After several minutes she had returned, her hair pulled out from the bun she had set it for dinner, now hanging around her body, moving gently against her as she walked, the tee-shirt resting on her knees enabling him to see her lovely long shapely legs. Drake had swallowed hard, trying to push down the sudden desire in his body as the baggy garment had still not fully hidden her curves as she had moved, making him look away, with a need to remove himself from her.

“My turn” he said breezily though a little huskily, as he had grabbed his pyjama bottoms. He had hoped when he returned several minutes later that she would have been safely in the bed hidden under the duvet covers, but she still stood in the middle of the room her back to him as she fixed the bag and camera within it. She was filming the empty bed and she had moved over to lie on it looking at him out of sight of the camera.

“Care to join me” she said softly as she lay back on the soft covers. Her arms outstretched towards him her eyes half closed and sensual, as she had pouted at him. Drake had smiled, remembering the plan they had made earlier that day, and he had moved to the side of the camera before throwing his suit onto the bag, causing the camera to move to the other wall the lens away from the bed.

Looking over at her he had winked and smiled softly as she had held back the laugh with her hand. Sitting up she had bounced on the bed as though she had been joined before moaning softly as had he, moving over to crouch at the side of the bed beside her. For several more minutes they had maintained this, both making faces at each other at how ridiculous the whole thing seemed.

Finally Mia had moved from the bed and reaching in had switched off the camera, bursting into laughter.

“I would love to see his face when he sees this” she giggled looking over at Drake who had stood to join her, his face also creased with laughter.

“Well it should keep him busy, but make sure you don’t give him too much time to look at it before we leave” he had added suddenly serious, as he had once again looked over at Mia

Turning away he had added in what he hoped was a natural voice which would hide the desire in him

“OK, you choose which side you want” aware of Mia hesitating behind him

“Drake” she began softly “Thank you for everything”

He had swallowed the small lump in his throat, hearing the sincerity in her soft voice

“That’s OK” he said with an attempt at a laugh “It’s the hardest I’ve ever had to work for a third date”

Looking over at where he stood his long supple back facing her, Mia had been overcome with the need to touch him, to feel him against her. He was once again only wearing his pyjama bottoms, and moving forward she had leant her head against his back, her hands moving to his side to softly hold him

She had felt the tremor pass through him as she had began to kiss his skin his breathing becoming ragged

“Please Mia” he whispered softly “Don’t”, groaning as she had continued her tongue gently licking down his spine, the touch of her mouth on him sending shivers throughout his entire body.

“I am trying so hard” he said his voice husky, as she had shaken her head against him

“I want this” she whispered gently “I want it so much, it hurts”

With that he had turned in her arms, his hands cupping her face

“You don’t have to do this because…” he began as she had moaned

“For God’s sake kiss me Drake” her voice and eyes so full of need for him that he had bent down and taken her lips with his.

The sensations which ran through the two of them were electrifying, as they held each other so tightly, their mouths fiercely pulling on the other with a need so strong it had to be satisfied. She could feel the strength of his arousal pressing against her soft stomach as he held her so tightly. As she had moaned loudly, he had pulled the tee-shirt from over her head, his eyes dark with desire seeing her body for the first time, as she had pushed down his trousers feeling him step out of them as the silk material had swished down to the ground

“You are so beautiful Mia” he whispered huskily, bending down and lifting her into his arms as he moved over to the bed laying her down so carefully, as though she might break, before laying himself down beside her

Her hands had gone to his face to kiss him deeply, her tongue twinning with his as he tasted her breath. Lifting his head, his dark eyes had travelled down her taking in the swollen breasts, her nipples raised in invitation. With another groan he had lowered his head, his tongue tickling the tip of one, as his hand had pulled her hips closer against him. Mia had arched forward with the feel of him on her and her hand had moved to take the strength of him, gasping at the size of him in her hands. As she had moved over him, he had given a tortured sigh, his eyes opening to look deeply into hers

“Are you sure” he managed although he could hardly stop himself from moving against her hand, which was raising him higher than he could have ever imagined. Mia couldn’t speak, only nodding as her other hand had moved to hold his face, pulling it down onto hers, as her legs had opened in sweet invitation. Moving between them Drake had raised himself over her before sliding smoothly into her, the two of them gasping as they felt the other. She felt so wonderful her body holding him that he had groaned with the sudden urges which had flooded him. For a second he had remained still to calm himself, feeling how she moved against him, as he once more began moving so slowly, rocking gently against her, already feeling the waves building as she had gone wild beneath him, her hips moving against his, her hands holding his lower back hard against her until he had felt her explode around him, her head thrown back as she had panted and cried out in the darkness. With relief, he had allowed the sensations to swamp him taking his final thrust into her feeling himself filling her, his head dizzy as darkness had threatened, his throaty moans joining hers.

As she felt him collapse over her Mia had felt the tears rise, feeling something tear away from her heart. Never before had she felt such sensations, completely losing control of herself with the need to have him be part of her. Her eyes were dazed as he had lifted himself to look deeply into her eyes, his just as stunned by what they had shared

“Mia” he had questioned, seeing the small tear in her eye. She had smiled back tremulously at him still unable to speak as his mouth had kissed hers so tenderly

“I’m sorry” he muttered “I should have stopped…”

Mia had looked at him so tenderly

“No Drake, you were wonderful” she had sighed, her voice so soft, her eyes holding his full of such light and warmth that he had shivered with such unexpected sensations coursing through him

“Then what” he asked gently watching the tear wind down her cheek, his voice questioning

“It’s been so long” she replied quietly “There hasn’t been anybody since Ben…or before him” she added quietly, as he had taken in what she said.

“When Ben was killed, the man who was driving the car was over twice the drink driving limit” She began as Drake had moved to the side, watching her as he rested his head on the palm of his hand, seeing how her face had become so tortured

“But he was rich, very rich with a team of lawyers who worked so hard to keep him out of jail”

She paused for a second

“He got community service and his licence taken off him for five years… and as he was leaving court he winked at me, and asked if I was free would I be interested in going out for dinner sometime”

He could hear the hatred in her voice as she spoke

“God I hated him, and then Adam was put in jail because some other rich man had decided to use him to keep himself out of jail… but I knew I had to do something…not only for Adam, but to help win something for Ben, to show that sometimes just sometimes normal people could get justice”

As he lay quietly listening to her she had turned to him

“I thought you were the same Drake” she said softly, “some rich guy, who thought he could just have whatever he wanted, but you have been so wonderful” she said as another tear had slipped down her cheek. “I couldn’t have done this without you, and you didn’t want anything in return…just to help me”

Drake had shaken his head

“Please don’t paint me so white, Mia” he said softly “You were right about me…to start with I did just want to get you into my bed” she watched as he had frowned

“But then….I don’t know….it became so important to..” he had stopped as though unsure of the words, his face full of confusion.

Turning onto her side to face him, she had moved her hands to touch his wonderful mouth, her lips moving to kiss his so softly, as he had groaned feeling himself respond to her. Pulling her once more against him he had deepened her kiss, this time taking his time to explore her body as he moved down to kiss her long graceful neck before moving down to suck on her erect nipples causing her to moan a soft animal sound in the back of her throat. As his mouth had followed the small valley in her stomach to her belly button she had gasped feeling his hands moving down her side shaping her so softly. Calling his name, she had encouraged him to move lower, as he had moved between her legs his mouth finding the warmth between her thighs and his tongue flicking inside her so welcome.

Mia had held onto his head, as his mouth had first sucked then licked her pulling the very air from her lungs as her hips had moved against him, before she had felt the waves once more building feeling herself become rigid and swollen against him as she once more erupted against him, gasping and panting with wonder, once more amazed by her own reactions. As she had come down he had moved back up to kiss her again, allowing her to taste herself on his lips.

“You fascinate me Mia” he said softly “I have never met a women like you before” adding with a grin which made her laugh “And you taste so good too”

She had giggled

“Well let’s see if I can say the same” she had said wickedly before moving down him to take him in her hands. She had felt him stiffen in surprise and delight as she had moved her hand up and down against the hardness of him before feeling him shiver with anticipation and pleasure as her tongue had flicked over the tip of him.

As she gently licked him, her small mouth taking more of him as he groaned and moved his hips against her, his hands moving to her head she had run her fingers down his thighs, hearing how he moaned with pleasure. As she felt him tense he had pulled her from him begging her to stop, as she had stroked him, her mouth kissing his as she brought him to climax, his mouth gasping against hers as his whole body had shuddered. Pulling back she had seen the wonder in his eyes as his dark ones had looked so deeply into her soft blue ones.

Pulling her against him, he had gently kissed her hair as he stroked her arm suddenly feeling the need just to talk. Drake Trent had never been one to tell the women in his life much about himself, he was a private person, but it was as if a gate had been opened within him and he found himself telling Mia everything about himself as she had done back to him, this woman, who he had known for such a short time, but with whom he felt such a need to share everything with.

He told her about growing up in an orphanage and how he had bought his first hotel when only 20 and how he had by sheer will and ruthlessness made himself a billionaire owning some of the best known hotels in the world. She in return had told him about growing up and losing her parents while she was only 15, and of how her sister had looked after her, sacrificing her own career to bring up her baby sister. In between they had returned to each other their bodies demanding each other over and over again, until dawn had broke with neither having slept.

Chapter Seven

Rising they had showered together, before he had moved to her room with her to collect her bags, not prepared to take the chance that Jake would be there to grab his blackmail tape. As they had moved along the corridor, as Drake had most feared Jake had appeared, surprised to see him still with Mia, cursing as they had moved into her room. He would have to wait until Drake left he thought angrily to himself.

However ten minutes later when they had both reappeared, he had been confused to see that they were both carrying their bags and quickly he had gone to intercept them as they made their way down the stairs

Drake had listened as the helicopter had landed on the lawn at the side of the manor, smiling coldly at Jake.

“Mia has agreed to come with me” he said smoothly, seeing how the other man’s eyes had narrowed

“I hope that’s OK with you” he had said so matter of factly, with the implications that he didn’t give a damn if he did mind.

Jake Black had taken in how tired they both looked, his eyes scanning Mia for the bag, relieved when he had spotted it in her arms.

“Of course not” he said softly, his eyes looking coldly at Mia “Anything I can do” he added to her his eyes looking pointedly at the bag

She had smiled back at him before pulling it from her shoulder

“Could you give this bag to Mary” she had said “Tell her I’ll pick up what she owes me on Monday at the club”

Jake’s face had broken out into a huge grin as he took the bag, smiling at her.

“I’ll do that Mia” he said, his tone conspiratorial

“Remember to phone my office on Monday Jake” Drake called out as they moved to the helicopter hand in hand as the other man had watched them with a wide smirk on his face

“Oh I will” he had said softly “I will”

Once safely seated on the helicopter, Mia had smiled over at Drake happiness stamped all over her features

“I can’t believe we did it” she cried with delight, her eyes misting over, feeling as the helicopter had taken off flying so smoothly across the British countryside. He had smiled over at her, holding his mobile phone staring at it intently.

“Who is so important that you need to phone them right now” she had laughed gently, noticing how solemn his expression had suddenly become.

“Is everything OK” she asked worry creeping into her voice, just as he had looked back over at her with relief stamped on his handsome face as his phone had leapt into action finally getting a signal

“I didn’t want to worry you Mia, but phone your sister tell her to get out of your house and somewhere safe that we can pick her up”

Mia had looked at him dumbfounded

“Why” she asked in surprise, frowning slightly

“Jake is not a fool, the minute he sees that tape, he is going to start to look into your past, and it won’t take much to find out the connection between you and Adam. When he does he is going to find the letter gone, and if my guess is right then he will do anything to get it back”

Mia had looked at him stunned, the horror filling her features at the implications

“Oh my God, Sarah” she cried taking the phone from him and dialling her sister. With relief Sarah had lifted the phone

Mia had briefly told her what had happened giving her a place that they would pick her up. Sarah had agreed instantly, promising to leave the house immediately, and with relief Mia had handed back the phone to Drake, her eyes shining at him with wonder

“Thank you” she said softly, as he had smiled back at her.

As they landed back in London, Drake had organised for a car to pick them up and drive them to where Sarah was hiding, knowing himself too tired to drive himself. Beside him Mia had sat still her features showing the worry and tiredness she felt. As his hand had gently taken hers she had leant in against him.

Reaching the area that Sarah had told them she would be Mia had almost cried in relief to see her standing in the shadows waiting for them. As the car had stopped and she had jumped out, Sarah had jumped into her arms, hugging her with joy. As Drake had followed Mia out of the car, she had frozen in surprise quickly looking at Mia for an explanation.

“I’ll tell you everything in the car” she said with a small grin on her face

“Get in”

As they drove to Drakes estate, Sarah had listened intently her eyes wide with surprise as the story unfolded

“Thank you Drake” she finally said with such warmth and real feeling in her voice

“My pleasure Sarah” he replied softly, looking gently at Mia

Sarah had watched the way he looked at her sister, and the way Mia had leant in against him as she had been told the story. Inside her something smiled as she knew that finally Mia had moved on.

As they pulled up outside Drakes mansion, complete with security gates and more land than she could imagine Mia’s eyes had widened a small nervous feeling fluttering at the pit of her stomach. Seeing this he had grabbed her hand leading her into the wonderful foyer of the grand home. As the housekeeper had moved forward to meet him he had quickly given her instructions to make up an extra room for Sarah whispering gently into Mia’s ear to ask if he wanted her to make it two rooms. Mia had shaken her head shyly, her eyes looking deeply into his

“No, one will be fine” she replied seeing the way her sister had smiled as she looked at the floor. As the housekeeper moved away he had become more business like

“We need to talk” he said leading the two women into a large bright living room beautifully furnished in red and gold’s’.

“We can’t just take the letter to the police” he said as they had all sat down “You know that don’t you” he said looking across at Mia

Who had nodded gently, as Sarah had looked at the two of them with a shocked look of surprise on her face

“But..but that was the plan all along” she gasped “We were going to use it to free Adam” she said her eyes staring at the two

Mia had looked back at her gently

“That was just the first part of the plan I had Sarah” she said “I stole this letter, he could claim it as inadmissible, there is a chance that it might get thrown out of court, we can’t take that chance”

Sarah had sat stunned tears welling in her lovely eyes

“So what was the second part of your plan” Drake had asked solemnly, knowing that she must have had one

“I was going to meet with the honourable Member of Parliament and tell him that unless he turned evidence against Jake that I would go to the police, his wife and the papers” she continued

“He could cut a deal with the court, a much better option than taking the fall himself”

Drake had nodded gently

“How were you planning on meeting with him” he asked

Mia had sighed tiredness suddenly overtaking her

“I hadn’t thought of that yet…I would think of a way” she had said with grim determination

“I could get you to see him” Drake spoke softly “I never seem to get refused private chats these days” he grinned, seeing the warm smile light up her face.

“But first….bed young lady” he said rising “You look exhausted and so am I.........We can deal with this tonight. This whole estate is protected by security, so Jake won’t be disturbing us” Looking over at Sarah he had added

“Please make yourself at home Sarah, but don’t leave the house… at least not yet, Jake will be looking for both of you”

Mia had risen also, her hand hiding the large yawn as she had stretched sleepily

“We didn’t get any sleep last night” she said softly looking shyly at her sister, who was looking back a knowing smile on her face.

“You must both be exhausted” she said gently “all your sneaking around after dark”

The two had looked at each other with large grins on their faces before heading for the stairs. As they reached the bottom, Sarah had called Drake back

Quietly so that her sister, who had started to climb the stairs couldn’t hear she had whispered

“Please don’t hurt her Drake” as he had leant in to give her a soft kiss on the cheek

“I won’t” he said with such sincerity that Sarah had smiled.

Leading her to his room, Mia had instantly taken in the aroma of the room, so him, feeling it envelop her, her senses awakening once more. As they both moved to the large shower each taking time to wash the other, they had felt themselves awakening and as they had kissed, the desire for each other once more rising. As Drake had wrapped her in a towel, he had lifted her to carry her to his bed, before once more lowering his mouth to hers. As they had make love she had watched his eyes as they shone so brightly, and when completely exhausted and sated within each others arm they had both fallen asleep still holding on to each other, and then she had realised that she loved this man, loved him with all her heart and Mia had smiled so happily, safe and secure within his arms.

Later that evening she had woken, realising that she was alone, calling out his name gently her voice had been full of alarm. From the other end of the large room, she had heard movement, as he had come back over to the bed to sit beside her, fully dressed, in jeans and a polo shirt

“Hey there beautiful” he had smiled gently down on her “finally awake”

She had looked around, seeing the chair he had come from and the computer he must have been working on

“What are you doing” she had asked in surprise, feeling a strange sense of relief at him being there

“I sent some emails to our MP, and he has agreed to meet with me on Tuesday. I haven’t told him what about…thought I would surprise him” he chuckled, leaning in to kiss her shoulder.

“Hungry” he asked, seeing how she had nodded, before pulling herself out of bed and walking into the bathroom to once more shower. He had watched as she had walked away, smiling so sweetly at him, her wonderful body causing his whole being to react to her. With a groan of want, he had stayed where he was fighting the desire to join her, knowing too well where that would end up and knowing that Sarah would be waiting for them.

As she had once more reappeared he had watched her dress, as they talked about their plan to confront Adams employer, agreeing a plan on how best to approach him, before they had both once more descended the stairs instantly smelling the wonderful aroma of food wafting in from the dining room.

As they had entered Sarah had appeared, carrying what looked like a bottle of wine

“I thought you too were never going to get up” she had laughed “Jane and I were considering setting off the fire alarm to wake you”

Drake had raised his eyebrow in surprise hearing her talk so familiarly about his housekeeper who was usually very stand offish with the people he brought into the house, suddenly realising that he had never brought people like Mia and Sarah home before. The women he usually associated with where shallow, self serving socialites or actresses, who expected to be waited on hand and foot. But the two sisters were different and instinctively he knew that Sarah had most probably spent the day helping Mrs Green, not demanding tea and cocktails from her.

As they ate their meal and enjoyed the expensive wine, Drake had outlined the plan to the two women, both realising that he had taken over, but neither caring as their eyes had watched him seeing how he had thought of everything. With a grin, he had looked over at Sarah

“Let’s get your husband home to you before the end of the week” to which she had smiled, a soft tear rising to her eyes as she had nodded, looking away to hide the emotion in her face.

The next day as Drake had left for his office, he had frowned as Sarah had told him that she would have to meet with her lawyer. Making a phone call, he had assigned a security man for her protection making a car and driver available to her for as long as she needed. Sarah had smiled joking that she could get used to this, before leaving the house with him. As he had left, he had pulled Mia into his arms, kissing her softly a light burning so brightly in his eyes

“Tonight you and I need to have a talk” he had whispered seductively in her ear, his eyes so serious, as hers had looked back at him.

In his office his secretary had buzzed through

“Mr Trent, Mr Black is insisting on talking to you”

Drake had scowled

“I thought I told you to tell him to come to see me on Tuesday afternoon”

She had confirmed that she had done this saying

“He said to tell you that you can never rely on cameras alone.”

“Put him through” Drake had said solemnly, his face suddenly grim

“Hi Drake” the voice from the other end of the phone had cried with pleasure “Thought that might get your attention, I’m down stairs thought I might come up for a chat”

“Ok Jake” he said solemnly “come up now”

As he made the necessary calls to security, he had sat back thoughtfully, his mind racing with questions

Moving from the luxurious lift the smaller man had looked around himself, quickly moving to the large reception desk, behind which the attractive secretary had efficiently directed him into Drakes office. Giving the woman his sickliest smile and a wink he had moved into Drakes large office. Jake Black had whistled gently, seeing the expensively decorated and furnished room, which screamed money and good taste.

“Wow Drake, must be good to be the king” he said with an unpleasant sound to his voice

Seeing as Drake had stared back at him, no longer even trying to hide the contempt in his eyes

“What do you want Jake” he replied, his voice low and controlled

“Straight to business” I like that about you the smaller man had sneered unpleasantly lifting a tape recorder out of his pocket. As he played the tape back, he had looked over watching as Drakes face had become grim, hearing himself talking to Mia in bed, telling her about his upbringing and early business dealings.

His expression had hardened listening to her gentle voice as she spoke with him, his memory briefly returning to that night, hearing as Jake had laughed his tone so unpleasant

“One of my best girls Mia, We knew that you would expect a trap, beside what was the point of a video….your not married… you would probably get rave reviews if what’s on this tape is anything to go by” he said with a nasty twist of his lips.

“No, I wanted to get you talking….and boy did you talk Drakey boy”

As he had moved and sat on one of the leather chairs, his whole expression had shone with the fact that he had finally out witted the man before him, his eyes flashing cruelly

“Now I’m not greedy…all I want is exclusive rights to offer certain personal services to your patrons….it might even be good for your business” he had added unpleasantly

Drake had sat stock still listening to him, before finally looking at the unpleasant man before him

“Are you telling me that Mia was in on this” he asked, his tone so cold, his eyes flashing dangerously

“Of course she was” Jake had sneered

“ and by the way, we knew that you would fall for the damsel in distress thing, her and her sister…they are the best in the business, you can tell her that the rest of her money is waiting for her for tomorrow as arranged”

He had finished with a flourish, standing up once more, his superior smile plastered on his face

Slowly Drake Trent too had stood up, towering over Jake, a look of complete contempt on his face, causing a look of confusion to appear on the other mans

“Get out Jake

He had hissed softly, his whole body held rigid

“I didn’t tell Mia anything that isn’t on public record for anybody who was interested to find out…so you have nothing on me

As he had slowly moved towards the other man, his hands balled by his side

“Now get the hell out of my office and don’t ever try to contact me again I will never allow you to use my hotels, Jake, you sicken me.”

Backing off towards the door, Jack had looked at the imposing figure of Drake Trent, with anger in his eyes and face

“I’ll get you for this…I’ll make you eat those words” he mumbled as he had stumbled backwards out of the room.

Back in his office Drake had stood running his hands through his hair. How could he have been such a fool? Mia had used him, made a complete idiot out of him. He had trusted her, and so much more he thought his mouth set firmly with the anger he felt.

Moving out of his office and slamming the door behind him, he had caused the prim woman behind the desk to look up in surprise

“Tell my car to meet me downstairs” he had shouted at his secretary, as angrily he had moved to the lifts, his hand slamming the button.

At the house Mia had laughed with Mrs Green, as her mobile had rang. Looking at the caller ID, she had answered, smiling happily. Hi Sarah, she had cried, feeling the blood in her veins turning to ice as she had heard Jakes voice

“Hello Mia” he said, his voice triumphant

“I’ve missed you”

Mia had looked around herself in total fear, as the housekeeper had looked back at her questioningly

“Where is my sister” she asked the fear in her voice audible, as her hand had visibly shaken as she held the device

“She’s here with me” came back the reply, as Mia had shaken her head violently

“I don’t believe you Jake, Drake had a guard with her”

“Ah…Drake.. I’m afraid poor Drake is a little cross with you right now” he had chuckled wickedly, before she had heard the sound of a tape being turned on.

With a gasp of shock she had heard the two of them talking from the last night at his home, her whole face showing her horror as the housekeeper now stood looking on with real concern in her eyes.

“Aint technology grand sweet heart” Jake had said unpleasantly “Poor Drake was not happy…especially when he found out how you had helped”

“No” she had cried with misery “He would never believe I helped you”

Hearing as he had laughed cruelly

“Oh, he did, called off the guards from your sister and told them to cut her loose… he is probably on his way to sort you out right now…poor Sarah didn’t even know what had happened when we grabbed her”

Mia had looked around wildly her eyes full of fear

“What do you want” she had cried

“I want that letter back” came back the hard response “and for your sisters sake you had better not have shown it to anybody else”

“I don’t have the letter” she had cried back fearfully “Drake has it”

“Well in that case Darling I want you to come outside right now and get into the car that will be waiting for you….you and me have things to talk about” he had said unpleasantly

“Or maybe you would rather I just talked to your sister” his voice full of innuendo as she had cried out

“Leave her alone… I’m coming” throwing down the phone and running from the room, leaving the housekeeper standing confused, trying to call out to Mia as she had wrenched open the front door and fled down the long driveway as Mrs Green had quickly reached out for the phone.

As she had left the gate a car had approached her, and as directed Mia had stepped into it, finding Jakes two henchmen already seated inside. Silently they had then driven her to the club, which had not yet opened for customers for the day.

“Jake wants to see you in his office” Jim had said nastily as she had stood by the side of the car, nervously unsure, feeling as he had given her a small shove forward. Glaring back at him Mia had lifted her chin with determination and stepped forward

Inside the building, she had been escorted along to Drakes office, seeing as he had stood before his desk, the cheap furnishings from the thread bare carpet to the dirty couch which lined one wall suiting him so well she had thought. Moving into the room she had felt her heart sink on not seeing Sarah, fear rising so strongly within her for her sister, as the two men had wordlessly closed the door leaving her alone with Jake

“Mia, I really have to thank you for delivering Drake Trent to me” he had smiled, seeing the flash of anger in her eyes as he had tutted gently

“Now if only you hadn’t taken that letter… that was very naughty of you…. How can I trust you now” he had whined as she had glared at him

“Where is my sister” she had bitten out angrily, seeing the unpleasant curl of his thin lips

“She’s safe…I thought that you and I could spend some time together while I waited for Drake to return the letter to me” he had said moving over to her and running his finger down her arm

Mia had hit his hand away from her, her eyes glaring at him “Don’t touch me” as he had grabbed her hair roughly using it to pull her head closer to his, as she had gasped in pain and fear.

“Well maybe we should get your sister up here instead” he had growled angrily “I’m rather partial to blondes”

Mia had looked back at him with panic on her face, as he pushed her away from him, picking up a black piece of lingerie and throwing it at her

“Put it on, I think we’ll start with a personal dance”

A sneer on his face

“I really enjoyed the one you gave Drake” he said his eyes passing over her with greed.

Holding back the sob, Mia had lifted the garment in her shaking hands as Jim, had knocked on the door

“He’s on the phone Jake” he had shouted as Jake had smiled unpleasantly at her

“That must be Drake now….when I come back be wearing that” he said before leaving the room locking the door behind him.

When he returned several minutes later she was standing in the middle of the room, wearing the teddy suit he had given her, her head bowed and arms folded protectively around herself

“Drake is on his way over with the letter now” he said triumphantly,

“Should give us a little time to play though”, he had said sitting down on the couch his hands flipping on some music

“Now sweetheart…why don’t you do a little dance for me…see what happens from there” he sneered his eyes moving over her

As Mia had tried to dance in the middle of the floor for him, her body cringing with what she was doing he had hissed angrily at her

“I said a proper dance Mia, here in front of me and look like your enjoy it…or maybe I should see if your sister would be better”

Mia had closed her eyes, moving within a few inches of him, her whole insides crawling at dancing so close to him. In her mind she tried to picture Drakes face, pretending that it was him before her, as she had began to move so erotically, the tears falling down her cheeks

She could hear Jake moan admiringly

“That’s better” he said his greedy eyes roaming down her body as she moved. Licking his lips in anticipation seeing how her lovely breasts had been pulled together so tightly as to almost have them spill out of the small teddy he had given her. When the music had died his hands had moved to grab her by the waist to pull her down on the couch beside him.

With a small whimper she had bit her lip her whole body rigid with fear just as another knock on the door was heard

“I said I wanted to be left alone” Jake had shouted, before Jim had replied

“He’s here”

With a curse Jake had pushed her away from him, standing quickly, his face full of frustration.

“Damn, he was quick” before smiling evilly over at her “later then Mia, we can finish this later”

With a laugh as she had cowered away from him to once more stand in the middle of the room he had cried out

“Bring him in” as the door to the office had opened and Drake had entered

Drake had quickly taken in the scene before him. Seeing Mia wearing only a black teddy, total devastation on her face as tears fell down her lovely cheeks and her lips quivered

“Mia, are you OK” he asked the concern in his face and voice causing her to sob louder, hugging herself tighter.

“I didn’t know Drake” she had cried looking at him with such pain in her eyes “I swear to God I didn’t know”

He had looked back at her solemnly “I know that” he said his eyes holding hers “I know that you would never do that” he repeated with such sincerity in his voice that she had made to move towards him, as Jake had grabbed her arm holding her to him.

“Where is the letter Drake” he had spat out unpleasantly

“Come over here Mia” Drake said gently, his hand outstretched reaching for her

Mia had looked at him so sadly, “I can’t Drake….they’ve got Sarah” she said as her voice had broken with the emotions running through her

Drake had shaken his head “No they don’t, she’s safe at the estate”

“But he said that you kicked her out… and he has her mobile” She began, her eyes so confused, as he had continued

“Your flat was broken into yesterday…no doubt looking for the letter” he said “they must have taken your sisters phone then…I would never put either of you in danger” he had said gently “come over here Mia…you have to trust me”

With another sob, she had pulled herself free from Jake and thrown herself into Drakes arms, her whole body shaking as he held her so tightly against him.

“It’s OK, you’re safe” he whispered softly against her hair, while his eyes had fixed stonily onto Jake

“It’s over Jake; the police are all around this building. I called them the minute I heard she had left my house”

“Just give me back the letter Drake and this will all go away” the small man had stuttered “I just want the letter”

Drake had shaken his head firmly. “It’s too late Jake, the police are picking up a certain MP, who I believe wants to turn states evidence against you

Jake had looked around himself in panic, running towards the door to yank it open, only to be met by two police officers, one of whom was already holding Jim. Cursing loudly he had tried to push past them, as the officers had quickly caught and cuffed the smaller man, who was cursing loudly at both Drake and Mia as they had taken him away Mia had stood in complete confusion, the relief written all over her face

Looking at her in concern, Drake had taken in the way she was standing so still, her eyes staring up at him with confusion, and relief, and pulling his suit jacket off gently, he had placed it around her shoulders, as she shivered, the shock still showing in her body, before taking her over to sit on the couch on which Jake had only recently tried to molest.

Pulling her into his arms he had kissed the top of her head, saying over and over that it was all over, until she had stopped shaking, finally lifted her head, her beautiful eyes shining brightly with the tears which filled them

“He played the tape to me over the phone”

Mia had stammered the hurt catching in her voice

“ he told me that you thought I was in on it…”her voice once more breaking slightly “I would never…” she began as he had hugged her even tighter

“I know when I left my office, I was ready to kill you Mia” he said with a grimness to his voice, “then I realised that he was lying…I just couldn’t believe that you would do it. The more I thought about it.. the more I just knew that you weren’t involved, that he had to be lying”

She had remained silent as he continued

“I phoned home, to warn you and Mrs Green told me what had happened, she was trying to get me at my office, she was in a real state”

He had said softly, his mouth once more kissing her head so softly

“God I was so scared Mia…If he had hurt you…” his voice had faltered “The only place I could think of for him to bring you was here, so I called the police and organised for them to meet me here. Then I saw them bringing you in…I had to stall him so I arranged to meet him here. I kept him on the phone as long as I could” he said with a smile. “Figured if he was talking to me then he wasn’t…” he left the last part unsaid as he felt her shiver beside him.

Pulling back from him she had looked into his eyes hers so serious, as the feelings for him had swollen so much within her.

“I love you Drake” she said her eyes so bright while so nervous of what she was telling him

“Oh, Mia” he whispered his eyes shining with happiness “I’ve loved you since the first time you yelled at me” he said his mouth moving down to kiss her so passionately, as she had kissed him back, the feelings of love for him making her head spin with that love, before feeling as he had once more pulled back from her slightly

“I never knew I could ever love somebody so much, I never knew just how lonely I was” he spoke against her mouth so huskily “until you came into my life like a spitting tornado”

He had felt her start to cry again in his arms as her hands had moved to cup his face as she reined kisses on his mouth and cheek telling him over and over how much she loved him, both so happy in spite of their surroundings. The two were giggling like teenagers as the detective had entered the room to take their statements, looking over in surprise at the scene before him.

One year later Drake had awoken, feeling as Mia had stirred gently against him. Lifting her hand he had once more admired how their two rings shone so brightly in the morning light which filtered through the large window.

She had smiled that large dazzling smile, rolling on her back to look up at him, a small sensual moan escaping her lips

“I do love week-ends” she had whispered gently, her hand moving to softly caress his cheek

“No work today” giving another smile full of innuendo

“Now what else could we do instead” she had breathed as he had chuckled

Drake Trent had never felt so happy, looking adoringly down at his wife he had once more thought back to the events of the past year.

After Jake had been arrested, the police had obtained warrants to search the rest of his homes quickly finding the full extent of his blackmail ring, arresting many prominent figures from all walks of life. Sarah and Mia had become household names with their story and how they had broken the ring making them sought after by the many media; however Drake had insisted on remaining anonymous.

On one interview Mia had been asked her greatest regret, and when telling of having to give up her prestigious placement, she had been surprised and delighted to be personally contacted by the head of the establishment himself, who had offered her an even better job within the company. Drake had been proud of the way she had insisted on keeping their relationship private telling him that she wanted to make it herself. And make it she had, quickly rising in the company with her intelligence quick wit and ability to act under pressure. It was only when she and Drake had gone public with their plans to marry six months later that her link to him had even come to light, and even then she had refused to combine her work and private life when they had offered her his account the most prestigious in the company.

Smiling he had looked over at the pictures which littered their room seeing Sarah and Adam happily laughing from one. Drake had made sure that Adam was released the day after Jakes arrest and bound into his care until the official hearing in which all charges had been dropped. He had remembered how Adam had moved from the car into his house, Sarah had thrown herself into his arms, and he had watched as the couple so in love had clung to each other. He had taken an instant liking to the man who was now not only such a good friend to him but also a brother. Between them in the picture the two had held their new born daughter, his niece he had thought, suddenly having gone from having no family to having so many people such a large part of his life.

Looking down again, Mia had pulled her head up to gently touch his lips with hers, her hand moving to softly stroke his side as she had given a small half laugh full of promise, and he was once more filled with the same overpowering love for her as he had the day they had declared their love for each other in Jakes office.

Pulling her closer against him, Drake had felt the small bump on her stomach, still hardly noticeable as his hand had moved to gently rub the smooth skin, feeling the surge of emotions knowing that inside her grew their child, his child.

Mia had seen the emotion cross her face and chuckled

“You are going to make a terrible father” she had grinned, as he had looked into her eyes with surprise

“You will never be able to say no, and this child will walk all over you” she had added gently, seeing as his eyes had grown so soft, as he had laughed back

“mmmmmmm......but that’s why I’m keeping you around” he had laughed back

“You can be the yelly one.....you like yelling” seeing as she had broken down into giggles as the memory of their meeting had once more come to her mind, before he had dropped his head to kiss her, his kiss full of such passion as suddenly she was not laughing anymore, the need for each other which had always been there rising and crashing over the two as they had indeed enjoyed the week end.

Table of Contents

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven