From Friend To Fake Fiancé
Jules Bennett
Two friends, one wedding and a little white lie…Pretend to be Jenna LeBlanc’s lover? Heck, Mac O’Shea has dreamed about being the real thing for years. Yes, they share a deep attraction, but they’ve agreed to “just be friends.” After all, Jenna wants forever and Mac’s questionable family business means he’s not the settling down type.He would never bring an innocent like Jenna into his dark world. But the mafia playboy can’t resist the chance to touch her, to taste her—even if it’s only a ruse for her sister’s tropical wedding. It’s just a week…in paradise…with a woman he desperately wants. Nothing will change between them. Right?
“You think you can handle me touching you in public?” he whispered.
“Kissing you. Acting like I’m your lover and pretending to know every single detail about your body?”
Jenna’s breath caught in her throat. “I bet you that I can fool anyone who looks at us,” she told Mac, trying to catch her breath. “So long as everyone thinks we’re an item, that’s all I care about.”
“I’ve never turned down a bet.” He continued to stroke her skin. Her collarbone, her jaw, the sensitive spot behind her ear. “What does the winner get?”
Jenna swallowed, forcing herself to focus. “If we pull this off, I win and you’ll owe me another favor, which I can redeem at any time.”
His brow quirked up. “And if I win?”
“You won’t. I plan to be very convincing.”
Mac’s warm breath tickled her cheek as he shifted. One palm slid up the side of her face, his fingers threading into her hair. “Then we’d better practice.”
* * *
From Friend to Fake Fiancé is part of the Mafia Moguls series: for this tight-knit mob family, going legitimate leads to love!
From Friend to
Fake Fiancé
Jules Bennett
www.millsandboon.co.uk (http://www.millsandboon.co.uk)
Award-winning author JULES BENNETT is no stranger to romance—she met her husband when she was only fourteen. After dating through high school, the two married. He encouraged her to chase her dream of becoming an author. Jules has now published nearly thirty novels. She and her husband are living their own happily-ever-after while raising two girls.
Jules loves to hear from readers through her website, www.julesbennett.com (http://www.julesbennett.com), her Facebook fan page or on Twitter.
There’s no greater happily-ever-after than sharing the journey with your best friend. Love you, Michael.
Contents
Cover (#ua78c7817-1422-53a6-9899-0d41dacc3ef1)
Introduction (#u84379391-2c29-5c65-9f19-5900c25ac8eb)
Title Page (#ucda2d476-e29c-5e44-9d97-acbe438d51e8)
About the Author (#ucb2a4fe4-ed0a-5a6a-9f2a-d08dd1d5b651)
Dedication (#u41c37b04-2f94-513f-ad92-0736529488ad)
One (#u4d1b62f0-8175-5108-a28f-b5beb240b476)
Two (#u80e64dba-0d59-5585-8174-0f32fb7faf79)
Three (#ud9fc70fc-b46b-5631-a5c5-7dd2a5e212a3)
Four (#ub5f134f2-f43e-58ef-818e-1ac026e02f3c)
Five (#litres_trial_promo)
Six (#litres_trial_promo)
Seven (#litres_trial_promo)
Eight (#litres_trial_promo)
Nine (#litres_trial_promo)
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Eleven (#litres_trial_promo)
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Thirteen (#litres_trial_promo)
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Fifteen (#litres_trial_promo)
Sixteen (#litres_trial_promo)
Seventeen (#litres_trial_promo)
Eighteen (#litres_trial_promo)
Epilogue (#litres_trial_promo)
Extract (#litres_trial_promo)
Copyright (#litres_trial_promo)
One (#ulink_8560d1a6-adb1-56d0-af46-6b07487d7ace)
“All I need you to do is play the part of my boyfriend for the next week.”
“Let me get this straight. You had me fly to Bora Bora so we can make your ex believe you’ve moved on. We’ll be pretending to shack up in this romantic hut. And in the midst of all of that, you’ll be doing the flowers for your sister’s wedding?”
Okay, when Mac O’Shea phrased the question like that, the situation did sound rather ridiculous. But she had her reasons, damn it. Good reasons. Reasons that justified making her very best friend pose as her boyfriend.
Standing in the cozy hut that was her home for the next week, Jenna LeBlanc adjusted the strap on her favorite coral sundress and stared at Mac. “Listen, you love to travel and I’m giving you a free trip. Stop complaining.”
Shoving his suitcase out of the way with the toe of his shoe, Mac stalked toward her. Emerald eyes held her in her place, as if daring her to move until he got to the bottom of this. Mercy, that man was potent. Her best friend was sexier than any other man she’d ever encountered and now she needed him to pretend to be madly in love with her because she trusted nobody else. Sure. This should be no problem.
“I can afford my own damn trip.” He propped his hands on his hips as he stopped right before her. “I want to know why you didn’t tell me the full reason you needed me down here when you called.”
Humiliation? Fear? Too many emotions swirled around, leaving her more desperate than she’d like to be. The need to keep her sister’s wedding perfect and her mother’s past demons from creeping up had Jenna putting everything on the line. Heart, sanity...everything.
“Listen, Martin is still attending because he’s the best man,” she explained. “We broke up two weeks ago and he wants me back. He won’t take no for an answer. There’s no way to avoid him here, so that’s where you come in.”
Mac’s dark brows drew in as the muscle ticked in his square jaw. “You told me you broke things off with him, but you never said why.”
“Well, you were gallivanting around the world—”
“In Barcelona.”
“And you didn’t return my call when I tried to reach you.”
“Because I was in a meeting when you called and your message said to come here.” Mac sighed. “Now, tell me what the hell is going on and why we’re dating, because if we are, my family needs to know. My sister will be thrilled.”
Jenna narrowed her eyes. “Now is not the time to be snarky.”
Mac crossed his arms over his massive, broad, extremely chiseled chest. She couldn’t help but stare as the material strained across his shoulders. They may be only friends, but that never stopped her from eyeing the goods. Mac made thirty-two look damn sexy.
“Martin was screwing his assistant.”
It hurt to say those words. Not because she’d been madly in love with him; they’d only been dating a few months. But to know he didn’t feel she was worthy enough for him to break up with first? Did men not consider women’s feelings anymore?
“He was a jerk anyway,” Mac commented. “Want me to rough him up?”
She laughed, though she knew he wasn’t kidding entirely. Rumors of the O’Sheas’ infamous ways of conducting “business” were strong enough that his words rang true. Mac’s father, Patrick, had passed away less than a year ago and the man wasn’t known for his gentle hand or kind mannerisms. Mac’s brother Braden had taken over as head of the family, and he and his fiancée, Zara, were much more personable, but Braden was still a formidable presence. He wasn’t a man to mess with, either, but had more tact, self-control—and quite possibly more power—than Patrick did.
“Seeing Martin in pain would be lovely, but no thanks.” Jenna patted his cheek and went on. “But since he has to be here, I refuse to have him believe I am available. As far as he’s concerned, I’ve moved on and I’m head over heels for you. He’s nothing but a bad memory.”
“And this is where my undying love comes in.”
Jenna swallowed hard. “If you want to put it that way, then, yes. But I really just need a favor without the sarcastic comments.”
Jenna didn’t want to think of Mac and love in the same sentence. That would be a cruel trick to play on herself. Yes, they’d been best friends since he tried to pick her up years ago at the party of a mutual friend. She’d blown him off, thinking there was no way a guy like that would ever find her attractive. Added to that, she’d been in Boston long enough to know the O’Shea name and hadn’t wanted to associate herself with people who were synonymous with “mafia” and “mob.”
Apparently he’d found her bold rejection appealing because he’d pursued her anyway. She’d told him she was a long-term type of girl, and he’d said he admired that but he wasn’t in the market for a relationship. Now she laughed at the fact that they were indeed long-term, but as friends only.
Jenna had to admit, he was like no other friend she’d ever had. She’d seen a side to him that didn’t seem ruthless or conniving at all. He made her laugh, made her relax. She didn’t know when the switch occurred, but one day she knew who her best friend was and that he would do anything for her. And his friendship wasn’t a bad connection to have. Mac wasn’t just a jet-setting playboy, his family owned auction houses around the globe, brought in billions each year and were a force to be reckoned with in the international business world.
Yet, after all these years of knowing him, she still wasn’t sure which side of the law the family truly operated on. Jenna had brought that topic up only one time in the past decade—a mistake she wouldn’t make again. She’d asked about his family business, why all the traveling and secrecy. Mac had turned almost cold and made it perfectly clear that topic was off limits and not to be approached ever again. Which is why she wasn’t asking about the Barcelona trip or the meeting he’d been in.
Mac stared at her for a moment, then hitched his hip onto the bamboo-and-wicker barstool at the island in the kitchen of her bungalow. “If your sister isn’t getting married for another week, why are we here now?”
Because her perfect sister wanted the perfect wedding to go along with her perfect life. Jenna loved her sister more than anything, but Amy seriously had it all. Jenna had...no. She wasn’t going to start down that path because she was happy for her sister and that’s why she was here. Jenna didn’t want to be the bitter bridesmaid simply because she had a cheating ex. Amy had actually found true love and this was going to be the best week of her life. She deserved perfect.
Jenna hadn’t told her family why she and Martin parted ways. A fake boyfriend would really go a long way to keep everyone all smiles until this wedding was over.
“Amy wants her wedding party and guests to enjoy the island. Kind of a mini-vacation for them and a giant party building up to the main event.”
When Mac didn’t say anything, Jenna sighed and tugged the top of her dress up another inch. Damn boobs. These little sundresses always looked so good on those plastic, size two models but were hard to pull off in reality.
“You don’t have to. I know it’s silly and desperate and ridiculous to ask—”
“What would you expect of me?” he asked, a naughty smile spreading across his face. “And don’t skimp on the details.”
Letting out an unladylike growl, Jenna rolled her eyes and marched through the luxurious hut and straight out the door leading to a small, straw-covered deck overlooking the crystal-blue water. Heavy footsteps sounded behind her and seconds later a familiar, firm hand settled over her shoulder.
“I’m not in the mood to be made fun of.”
With a gentle squeeze, Mac turned her around. “Fine. Tell me what you need me to do.”
She stared up into the emerald eyes she’d found herself getting lost in more than once. “You’ll have to stay in this hut with me.”
“Done.”
She swallowed. “There’s only one bedroom.”
His mouth quirked up. “Then try to keep your hands to yourself.”
“Can you focus?”
Jenna couldn’t help but laugh. He flirted with any woman between eighteen and death. He had no filter and she never took him seriously. The man loved life, loved women and loved his family. He was loyal to a fault. If she thought for even a second he could do long term, she could fall so easily for him. But she kept her heart guarded and firmly planted on the friendship side.
“I’m focused,” he insisted, holding his hands out. “One bedroom. I understand what we won’t be doing in there, so tell me what we’ll be doing outside our little house.”
“You’ll need to come to the evening events with me. There are only a few.” Jenna ran the list down in her head. “I’m doing all the flowers for the ceremony, so if you could make some trips with me to assist with the arrangements, that would look all boyfriend-ish. Oh, there’s the rehearsal dinner and ceremony, too, of course. But during the day, we may need to be seen on the beach together holding hands. I don’t know...doing lovey-dovey things.”
“Lovey-dovey? Whatever you mean by that, I can handle it.” He glanced out at the water for a second, then back to her. “There’s only one problem.”
Her heart sank. She didn’t have time for problems. Her mom was arriving in the morning and who knew when her ex would show his cheater face. Stupid guy had to be the best man, which meant she’d be walking down the aisle with him...she’d rather walk barefoot on broken glass.
“I’ve known you for ten years and you’re not the affectionate type.”
Jenna swallowed and nodded in agreement. There was a reason she wasn’t all touchy-feely. She couldn’t afford to be.
“I can be,” she assured him.
“Really?” He took a step forward, instantly filling the gap between them.
His hand came up to her face as he trailed his fingertips down her cheek, to her jawline and down her neck. She couldn’t suppress the tremble that racked her body.
“You think you can handle me touching you in public?” he whispered. “Kissing you? Acting like I’m your lover and pretending to know every single detail about your body?”
Jenna’s breath caught in her throat. The idea of Mac knowing every inch of her body both thrilled and terrified her. She had no doubt this man knew how to bring pleasure, but at the same time, she’d be mortified if he saw her naked and looked disappointed. Her body wasn’t perfect, far from it. The curves, the dips and rolls, everything about her physique was the exact opposite of the women she’d seen him with.
“I bet you that I can fool anyone who sees us,” she told him, trying to catch her breath. “So long as Martin thinks we’re an item, that’s all I care about.”
“I’ve never turned down a bet.” He continued to stroke her skin. Her collarbone, her jaw, the sensitive spot behind her ear. “What does the winner get?”
Jenna swallowed, forcing herself to focus. “If we pull this off, I win and you’ll owe me another favor, which I can redeem at any time.”
His brow quirked up. “And if I win?”
“You won’t. I plan on being very convincing.”
Mac’s warm breath tickled her cheek as she shifted under his touch. He slid one palm up the side of her face, his fingers threading through her hair. “Then we better practice before he arrives.”
Before she could ask what he meant, his mouth claimed hers.
* * *
What. The. Hell?
Mac’s question to his own sanity quickly evaporated the second Jenna opened to him. He swallowed her gasp and kept his hand firm on her jaw, as if daring her to pull away.
Finally, after all these years of wondering how his best friend would taste, now he knew and the fantasy didn’t even come close to touching reality. And he’d had a multitude of fantasies regarding this stunning woman.
Jenna stiffened against him, then melted. There was no other word for what happened with her body—those curves would be the death of him.
For years he’d kept his distance out of respect to their friendship and because there was no way in hell he’d let her in deeper...not when his family had secrets he could never share. His father had been a killer, though Patrick O’Shea could justify each and every death. Mac had actually made the decision himself twice before, when Braden wouldn’t do it and Patrick was forcing their hand. Mac didn’t look back, though. No regrets. Regrets meant living in the past. His family was looking toward the future, looking to go legit. The idea seemed so simple, but the execution—no pun intended—was proving to be a bit harder to pull off.
Mac’s family was cunning; they got what they wanted. They stole, lied and would betray anyone to get where they needed to be. On the flip side, the O’Sheas were fiercely loyal to their allies. They wouldn’t hesitate to help anyone legitimately in need. But pity those foolish enough to cross them.
There were so many family secrets, Mac knew full well he’d never put a woman he loved in a position of having to lie to the cops or keep the darkness of their deeds hidden.
For the most part, the O’Sheas put up a great front. Yet beneath the surface they were always watching, waiting, ready to strike at any threat to their family.
Braden had found love, but Mac wasn’t so sure such a thing existed for him. He didn’t do relationships. Jenna was a relationship type of girl, so friends was all they could ever be. Because he wasn’t letting her out of his life. She got him. She knew his family was...unique, and she didn’t pry.
But playing boyfriend to her for a week? Now that he could totally get behind. The green light to touch her, to kiss her, was the stuff of fantasies and he planned on making every second count. Because if he was going to play this role, he intended to take it all the way. He hoped like hell she knew what she was getting into.
After their little charade was over, she’d be out of his system and they could go back to being friends. He’d pushed for more years ago, but she’d shut him down, stating she was only looking for something long term. Now she’d made the first move and all he had to do was follow her orders...and touching Jenna after all this time would be one benefit he’d never forget.
And when the ex showed up, Mac planned on having a little one-on-one chat with the bastard. Nobody hurt Jenna and lived to tell about it. And no one made her feel less about herself. She was a beautiful, vibrant woman deserving of a man who would appreciate her.
And for a week, Mac would be that man...in theory.
Mac tipped his head, rubbing his lips against Jenna’s before capturing her mouth once again. Her fingertips curled into his shirt as he slid his hands down that sultry, killer body. If he was going to pretend to be her boyfriend, he wanted all the perks that came with it.
“Oh. I’m sorry!”
Jenna jerked in his arms. Mac didn’t let her go as he glanced toward the doorway where Jenna’s mother and sister stood. They were clearly embarrassed, seeing as how neither of them were making eye contact. Mac didn’t care that they were seen during a very private moment, he actually found it rather amusing.
Besides, getting caught in the act was something he’d grown used to over the years, considering his family’s activities. Thankfully, with the right law enforcement and powerful people in his family’s back pocket, he’d never been arrested or faced charges.
When Jenna started to shift away, Mac tightened his grip. Might as well practice now, if they were going to pull this charade off for the ex. If they could make her mother and sister believe, then the ex would be no problem whatsoever. And after this week they could simply tell Mary and Amy that he and Jenna had decided they were better off as friends. An easy fix and they’d both still get everything they wanted: Jenna would get her ex to stay away and Mac would get her in his bed.
“We didn’t mean to...”
“I had no idea you two...”
Mary and Amy spoke at the same time and Mac laughed. “You’re fine. I just arrived myself and I was giving Jenna a proper hello.”
Mary’s eyes widened as she stared at her daughter. “You just broke up with Martin two weeks ago.”
Jenna remained frozen at his side and he knew she was struggling with how to explain this scenario to her family. Coming to her defense was easy.
“Martin is an ass,” Mac stated. “Jenna and I have danced around our attraction for years and we thought spending some time here away from work and reality would help us figure out if we should take things to the next level.”
“What are you two doing here?” Jenna croaked out.
Mary nodded. “I thought we could get some girl time in before the guests started arriving. I didn’t know you’d already had company, but I’m glad Mac is with you. Martin was a nice guy, but Mac is...well, you know I love him.”
Mary smiled and Mac knew he had them fooled. These three women were strong, united and had a bond that rivaled that of his own family. He hated lying to Jenna’s family. But it was necessary and nothing he and Jenna couldn’t get out of later.
Amy let out a little squeal as she stepped forward and wrapped her arms around Jenna, spinning her in a circle. “I knew you two would end up together. I’m so happy for you guys. I’m sorry Martin is the best man and you have to walk with him, but I promise you and Mac will have an amazing time.”
Jenna glared at Mac over her sister’s shoulder and he knew he’d crossed the line. He was going to have some explaining to do once they were alone.
He sent her a wink and a grin, which only earned him a narrowed gaze. Oh, yeah. This boyfriend scenario was going to be fun.
Two (#ulink_4efcc5ee-9f64-5ebc-b053-df1514ea4bba)
“What the hell was all of that?”
Okay, he’d expected her to be pissed. He’d kissed her, lied to her family and then she’d had time to stew about everything once her mother and sister had whisked her away for a family dinner. The ladies’ dinner conversation was a no-brainer. He had no doubt Jenna had been bombarded with questions that she likely didn’t have answers to all because of that kiss.
He wasn’t sorry.
Mac quirked a brow, knowing his silent action would get under her skin. It was just too easy to push her buttons...and she was sexy as hell all fired up like this.
Throwing her arms in the air, Jenna growled and slammed the door to their hut. “Do you have any idea what I just had to endure, all because you couldn’t keep your lips and hands to yourself?”
So what? She had to discuss the kiss with her sister and mother. He’d had to sit here in the silence and replay it over and over in his head. He could still taste her if he licked his lips, could still feel her when he clenched his fists.
“Are you going to say anything?”
“Did you bring me anything to eat?” he asked. “I’m starving.”
She crossed the room in two strides and shoved at his chest. “My mother wants to know how serious we are and my sister is already making plans for a double date with her fiancé and us. Are you ready for this?”
Mac wouldn’t be pushed, literally or figuratively, by anyone—even his best friend. He gripped her wrists, tugging on her until she fell against him. Perfect.
“You got this ball rolling, I only gave it an extra nudge. If you want your ex to believe we’re lovers, then practicing on your family is the perfect place to start.”
Jenna stared into his eyes. “I don’t like lying to them.”
“We’re not lying. I fully intend to take you for my lover.”
Her body stilled against his, her eyes widened. “Wh-what?”
“You heard me.” He was confident the shock in her eyes only masked her desire. She’d kissed him with too much passion, had practically melted against him. No way could he ignore her response. “I plan on fully experiencing being your lover, and when the week is over we’ll go back to being friends. That way nobody will be lying to your family.”
She jerked away from him, raking her shaky hands through her hair. She twisted it up into a knot and closed her eyes. Mac crossed his arms while he waited for her to process the kink he’d just put into her plans.
With a sigh, she dropped her arms and her hair fell all around her shoulders in messy waves. “We aren’t sleeping together. I need a friend, Mac. I take sex seriously. I know you can detach yourself from the emotions that come with intimacy, but I can’t.”
Knowing he was on shaky ground here, Mac closed the gap between them until he was so near she had to tip her head to look up at him. Her face was totally devoid of makeup, yet the tan she’d gotten was all the glow she needed to be even more radiant. Women he dated tended to use spackling to enhance their beauty, but Jenna needed nothing extra. He preferred a woman who wasn’t all made up in an attempt to gain attention.
“I know you want long term, Jenna. But this week is all about special circumstances. You invited me here.” He purposely used a softer tone. “Let’s see where this goes. I promise, when this is over we’ll go back to being friends. Nobody will get hurt, Jenna.”
“Says the man who has women strewn throughout the world.”
He suppressed a smile. “Despite what you think of my travels, most of the time it’s business and I’m too damn tired to entertain.”
She shook her head and took another step back, hitting the wall by the front door. “Sex implies...”
He quirked a brow. “Lust, desire, passion? I’m willing to admit you’re hot and any man would be lucky to have you in his bed.”
She put her hands on his chest. When she didn’t push him away, he reached out, curling his fingers around her bare shoulders.
“Don’t,” she warned. “We’re not sleeping together. We’re not doing anything but pretending to be lovers. After this week, my family will think we just decided to stay friends. That’s all. I can’t do more and if you’re honest with yourself, you can’t, either.”
Oh, he could do plenty more. Starting with peeling that dress from her curvy body. But he wouldn’t push her. She was already feeling stressed and recovering from the betrayal of her asshat ex. The last thing she needed was for her best friend to force her into anything. But that didn’t mean he would stop his attempts to get her into his bed. For years he’d wondered how it would feel to have his best friend in every way possible and now he had this week to seduce her. Bora Bora provided the perfect backdrop for temptation, with its sultry nights and lazy days on the beach. Seducing Jenna would be so easy, so perfect. Before these seven days were up, he’d know exactly how amazing they were together.
But Mac didn’t want her to feel forced, to feel pressured. He wanted her willing and aching for him. He wanted her to admit that the attraction was mutual. There wasn’t a doubt in his mind she wanted him. She may be lying to herself, but her actions spoke volumes.
Stroking his thumbs along her delicate skin, Mac bent slightly to hold her gaze. “I’m not putting any pressure on you. You’ve got enough going on now.”
Beneath his palms, her shoulders relaxed. “I still have all those flowers to do and Amy has changed her mind about the arrangements twice already. My ex will be showing up any day and I’m exhausted from my mother’s questions. If you add more stress on me, I’m going to smother you in your sleep.”
Laughing, Mac pulled her in and wrapped his arms around her. She literally fell against his chest as if the fight had gone out of her. This would be the perfect opportunity to seduce her...if he wanted to be a complete, uncaring jerk. He’d already planted the seed. She knew exactly what he wanted. Now he had to let his actions speak louder than his words. Not a problem at all. In his line of work, actions always got the job done.
“Why don’t you go out on the deck and relax?” he suggested, rubbing his hand up and down her back. “I’ll bring you some tea. I’m sure you packed an assortment.”
Jenna wasn’t a drinker, not of alcohol, anyway. Her mother had once battled alcoholism, but had been clean for the past several years. So, while booze was off the table for Jenna, Mac knew the girl never went out of town without her tea collection. It was one thing she took quite seriously. No doubt she’d brought the antique tin that he’d gotten her for Christmas several years back. She’d seen the piece before an auction and had coveted the item, so Mac had anonymously placed the bids and gotten it for her as a surprise.
Nearly all bidding was anonymous.... But in this instance, he’d simply done something for his best friend, not for a billionaire client or the good of the family business.
Jenna pulled away and offered him a tired smile. “You’re too good to me.”
“I’ll let you return the favor one day when I need you to pretend to be my fiancée,” he joked. “Do you want a particular flavor?”
He watched the sway of her hips as she walked away. “Surprise me.”
Mac laughed. She’d better watch what she asked for. Because by the end of this week, she’d be surprised all right. Seduction would never taste sweeter.
This might be the only chance to be this close to her, at her invitation. He planned to take full advantage of this week posing as her boyfriend. This was the exact opportunity he needed to get closer, by her invitation. He planned on playing his role flawlessly every minute of the next seven days.
* * *
Jenna crossed her ankles and stared out at the sparkling water just beyond her deck. With bright blue skies, the sun just on the horizon and her best friend brewing her tea, Jenna should be the most relaxed woman in the world.
Unfortunately, she couldn’t relax when her lips were still tingling, her body was still aching and her mind was still reeling from her best friend’s bombshell admission that he wanted to sleep with her.
She hadn’t seen that coming. Yes, he’d tried to pick her up with some overly cheesy line many years ago, but Mac was a professional flirt. And they’d agreed not to take things in that direction back then. She’d told him she only wanted long term and she knew he couldn’t offer permanence. No way would she make herself vulnerable when she knew nothing serious could come of her attraction to Mac.
But the way he’d kissed her, held her and stared into her eyes when he delivered that shocking blow...this man wasn’t joking anymore. He was full-on trying to get her into his bed, and if she wasn’t careful that’s exactly where she’d find herself. Talk about an awkward morning after, and she just couldn’t risk their friendship.
Stretching her arms out, she clasped her fingers behind her head. She really needn’t get too worked up, though. Mac loved women and women, understandably, loved Mac. He had charm, power, a killer body and a smile that could melt the clothes right off your body.
But she had to remind herself the proposition had nothing to do with her personally. Mac was a world-renowned playboy. He’d earned his reputation by his actions over the years and Jenna wasn’t naive. She’d seen firsthand what a damaging relationship could do. Granted, her parent’s situation was much different, but her mother had still been crushed, destroyed and ultimately had turned to the bottle when Jenna’s father walked out. Jenna didn’t think she’d ever be dependent on alcohol, but she was vulnerable to the same emotional damage her mother had suffered. Jenna knew if she allowed herself to be intimate with Mac two things would happen: she would love every single erotic moment, and he’d leave her wanting more as he walked away. She refused to be dependent on her feelings, to let her emotions lead her common sense around on a leash. Jenna had to keep a level head about this and remember everything going on here was all for show.
So, while her lips may still be tingling from their earlier encounter, she had to ignore the urge to take what he so eagerly offered.
Mac’s heavy footsteps hit the wood deck. “Here you go.”
After handing her a glass of iced tea, peach she guessed from the scent, he walked to the edge of the deck and took a seat. With the huts and decks built right on the water, his feet rested in the crystal-clear ocean. His black T-shirt pulled across his broad shoulders. His dark, unruly hair curled just slightly on the ends. Jenna didn’t care that she was checking out her best friend. She’d done it for years, and the older he got, the sexier Mac O’Shea became. This combination ocean/hottie view was definitely one she would be enjoying all week.
“So, tell me what’s on the agenda for tomorrow.” He threw a glance over his shoulder, offering her an evil, lopsided grin. “Kissing on the beach, you unable to keep your hands off me, frolicking in the ocean?”
Jenna took a hearty drink of her iced tea and rolled her eyes. “I think we’ll stick with hand holding, a few hugs and some lingering glances. Can you handle that?”
With a shrug, he turned back to the ocean. “I can handle anything. I’m in Bora Bora with my best friend and I have everything under control with the upcoming auction. I could use a few days to rest up, even if I’m pretending to be in love.”
A sliver of guilt started to course through her. “I know I’m putting you in a weird position, so if you want to back out, do it now before we get too far.”
Mac turned, rested his back against one of the posts and drew one knee up as he met her gaze. “Jenna, I came here for you. If you need me to hold your hand, literally, to get through this next week, that’s what I’m going to do. Stop worrying about my feelings or whatever else is going through that head of yours.”
She sat up in her lounge chair and swiveled her legs to the side. Clutching her glass, she watched the drops of condensation slide down it, disappearing beneath the pads of her fingers. Worry gnawed at her and she knew she could be totally honest with Mac about her deepest concern.
“I don’t want things to get awkward between us.”
“Then stop analyzing it to death,” he commanded. “We’ll be fine. The ex will think you’ve moved on, your sister’s wedding will be over and done, and you’ll be back in Miami by next week.”
In theory everything sounded so perfect and easy. Reality always had other plans, though.
Jenna took another drink before looking over to Mac, who was still staring at her. “Do you want something to eat? The resort actually stocked our kitchen. I don’t even want to know what Amy paid for all of this.”
Mac shook his head. “Nah. I was joking earlier. I’m too tired to eat, anyway. That whirlwind trip to Barcelona wiped me out.”
“I’m sure the lovely Lolita you left behind with a smile would take that as a compliment.”
Mac pulled his other foot from the water and hopped to his feet. “Lolita was nowhere to be found,” he retorted as he took a seat beside her on the lounge chair. “The trip was all business. I didn’t see one naked woman the entire time.”
Gasping, Jenna mocked him. “No wonder you’re so cranky. And here I’m putting a damper on your social life because you have to pretend to be taken.”
“We don’t have to pretend,” he replied with raised brows. “Say the word and we’ll make use of this lounge chair.”
Jenna sprang to her feet and headed toward the open doorway. “Chill out, stud. I have enough to handle without feeding your overactive hormones.”
Mac followed her into the hut. Jenna rinsed her empty glass and just as she went to set it on the counter, it slipped from her hands and shattered all over the ceramic tile.
Cursing beneath her breath, she glanced down, trying to figure out how to get out of the mess without cutting her bare feet.
“Don’t move.”
Mac stepped carefully around the shards and seconds later lifted her into his arms.
“Put me down. I’m heavy.”
Halting his steps, Mac met her gaze, his face mere inches above hers. “You’re not heavy, Jenna. You’re perfect. I won’t want to hear that from your mouth again.”
Closing her eyes, praying for the humiliation to pass, Jenna sighed. “Just put me down. I’ll put some shoes on and get this mess cleaned up.”
“I can get it.”
“You’re going to cut yourself,” she argued, though the point was moot now.
“Better me than you.”
He placed her on the sofa and stood back, his hands on his hips, his narrowed eyes daring her to argue. Jenna held her hands up in defeat. She wasn’t fighting with him. She chose her battles wisely. Besides, she had to admit she rather liked this whole knight-to-her-rescue thing.
Moments later, once the glass was all discarded and he’d swept the floor thoroughly, Mac returned and sat on the table in front of the sofa. Straddling her legs, he reached down and placed one of her feet on his leg. When he started to examine her, she pulled her foot away.
“I’m fine. I wasn’t cut.”
“You’re sure?”
Jenna snorted. “I think I’d know, Mac. Calm down. Were you cut?”
He merely shrugged. The man was infuriating at times.
“You know, you could’ve called someone to come clean that up.”
Shaking his head, he replied, “By the time someone came, I would’ve been done. It’s not a big deal.”
Mac O’Shea might have been a billionaire, he might have been a mysterious, powerful man, but he wasn’t lazy. He worked hard and always remembered that just because someone had money didn’t make them better than anyone else. His father had instilled that value in all of the kids, and Jenna admired Mac and his siblings for being so conscious of other people’s feelings...unless those people crossed the line. Then the O’Sheas left no room for negotiation, if the rumors were correct. Still, overall they were good people. She knew about the charities they silently donated to. She’d overheard Mac talking on the phone once to Laney, his sister, but Jenna hadn’t said a word. She was proud the family didn’t boast about the fact they shared their wealth. That’s what giving was all about.
The sun had sunk lower, sending a soft glow into the hut through the wide opening leading to the deck. Fatigue was starting to take over and she was running out of steam. She needed to rest up if she was going to pull off this charade for the next seven days. Who knew when Martin would arrive, and she wanted to be ready.
“I’ll sleep here on the sofa,” she told Mac. “Actually, I’m so tired, I think I could pass out on that hammock out on the deck.”
Mac simply shook his head. “You’re sleeping in the bed and so am I. We’re adults, Jenna. We’ve been friends for years.”
Yeah, well, she’d never lain next to her best friend and attempted to sleep after he kissed her as if he needed her more than air. How could she sleep if his hard body brushed against hers in the middle of the night? What if she rolled over and her parts touched his parts? Because then a new level of awkward would settle in and that was the last thing she wanted.
“Whatever you’re worried about, stop.” His demand was loud and clear. “Go to bed. I’ll be in later.”
Yeah, that’s precisely what she worried about.
Three (#ulink_2782d3f2-f9e3-53c3-8166-8187a6b80acb)
“We may have found something.”
Mac sat up straighter and glanced toward the closed bedroom door where Jenna had disappeared over an hour ago.
“The scrolls?” he asked his associate Ryker in a hushed tone. But Ryker was so much more than an associate. He was a brother, a friend, an enforcer. He might not share the same blood, but he was practically family.
And he’d found information on the infamous scrolls. The nine pieces of family heritage they’d been chasing for decades. Their ancestor was an Irish monk who’d been chosen to transcribe Shakespeare’s early works. The scrolls were invaluable...and still missing. They’d been in the O’Shea family up until they’d lost everything in the Great Depression, then they’d vanished.
Under the direction of their father, they’d followed countless leads. Once Patrick had passed and Braden had taken control, he’d gone to the point of origin at an old estate in Boston that used to be owned by the O’Sheas. The scrolls were last known to be there, yet his family was still on a damn wild goose chase. Granted, had he not gone to the starting point, Braden never would’ve met Zara, the love of his life. Zara now owned the home which used to be in their family. Even she had searched her home, but nothing had turned up.
Mac, his brother Braden and their sister Laney were ready to fulfill their late father’s request and find these missing heirlooms, but so far they’d had no luck. Ryker, the go-to guy who was more like a brother than an employee, had proved himself to be relentless in finding the scrolls, in fulfilling a dying man’s wish—no matter where in the world he had to follow the trail.
“I’m actually boarding the jet now,” Ryker stated. “I’ll be heading to Chicago on a tip from McCormick’s.”
McCormick’s. If the O’Sheas worried about rivals, McCormick’s would be top of the list. But, Mac’s family had been in the industry much longer and had far longer reaches into that world...both political and civilian. That, coupled with everything they had going on behind the scenes, definitely made them the most sought-out auction house in the world. They could get the job done, fly under the legal radar and have transactions completed quickly and efficiently. Their clients never knew the details of how things were handled, they only knew O’Shea’s was discreet and got things done.
“Is this tip from a reliable source?” Mac asked.
“Reliable enough,” Ryker said. “I’ll keep you posted, but Braden was busy at some event with Zara and they couldn’t be bothered, so I had to act fast. Where are you, anyway? Still in Barcelona?”
Mac came to his feet and glanced out the open doorway toward the inky water, shimmering only slightly from the moon peeking from behind the clouds. Bora Bora was one of the most beautiful places on the planet...it was also one of the most romantic. Not that he did the whole candlelight-on-the-beach kind of thing. He was more of a slam the bedroom door with his foot as he plastered a willing woman against the wall and claimed her type of guy.
“I’m in Bora Bora with Jenna. She had a family emergency.” Sort of. “I’ll be home in a week, but let me know as soon as you discover anything, no matter how minor.”
“Will do.”
Mac disconnected the call and gripped his cell in his hand. Every time there was another lead, he got anxious. After years of letdowns, Mac knew he shouldn’t get his hopes up, but all of this searching had to pay off at some point, didn’t it? Because none of them would stop until these scrolls were found. Unfortunately, Patrick O’Shea had passed before he could fulfill that vow. The heart attack that claimed his father was sudden. He’d gone in for surgery, knowing there was a risk, but it was his only option for survival. They’d lost him on the table.
Mac didn’t know if he’d ever get used to the idea of his father not being around. Then again, he didn’t want to get used to the loss. He wanted to remember his father for the powerful, loving family man he was. He may have been a hard-ass outside his inner circle, he may have had more blood on his hands than a corrupt politician, but Patrick O’Shea was loyal to those close to him. Mac missed that man every minute of every day and would continue to honor his father’s legacy and work with his siblings to make the O’Shea name as reputable as ever.
With his mind spinning in so many directions, Mac was too wound up to go to bed. Well, he was too wound up to sleep. Getting between the sheets with Jenna right now wouldn’t be wise. He wanted her so damn bad, with a fierceness he’d not allowed himself to feel before. She wasn’t ready, though.
His priority for the next few days was to make Jenna smile, to make her life worry-free and to get her to see just how easy it would be to be intimate and still be friends. He wasn’t looking for a lifetime commitment; they were already best friends and that was about as close to someone as he was willing to get.
Given the family business, he was used to keeping certain things close to his chest. He didn’t want to get too involved with anyone because he doubted there was a woman in the world who would put up with his lies. And he would lie to Jenna—he had lied to her. He had no choice with his lifestyle, and he wasn’t about to apologize for it.
He’d been born an O’Shea, born into a world that was glamorous, powerful and, more often than not, deceitful. He was proud of his name, dirty rumors be damned. Because, overall, the name O’Shea brought prestige and power. No one questioned them to their faces. And Mac would stop at nothing to help fulfill his father’s dying wish in getting back the scrolls. At all costs. They’d been missing long enough and he wanted to be the one to bring them back to their rightful place.
Turning back around, Mac eyed the bedroom door once again. Was she asleep? Was she tossing and turning? Was she fantasizing about the offer he’d given? One way to find out. Stripping off his shirt, Mac tossed it to the sofa and padded toward the bedroom. No matter what she was doing, Mac was going in. He wasn’t tired, but there was no sense in delaying the inevitable. A smile spread across his face as he unbuttoned his shorts, slid the zipper down and let them fall to the floor. He stepped out of them and slowly turned the knob.
Wearing only his black boxer briefs, Mac entered the darkened room, took in the curvy shape beneath the sheet and headed to the other side of the bed. After flipping his phone to silent, he placed it on the bedside table and sank onto the edge of the bed.
Behind him the sheets rustled and Mac had a hard time not letting his imagination run away with him. He’d never had a sleepover with Jenna before. Oh, she’d fallen asleep during a movie several times when he visited her or she came to his place. But Mac had never spent the night with her and she certainly hadn’t been planning on him sleeping in her room, so had she packed adequate pajamas? Did she sleep in the nude? All those lush curves, begging to be touched...
Mac eased back onto his pillow, crossed his ankles, laced his hands over his bare abdomen and stared up at the ceiling. The blades of the fan whirled in a slow, steady circle, giving off just enough of a light breeze to make the sheer curtains billow in front of the open window. The perfect setting for relaxation. For seduction. If this were any other woman, Mac wouldn’t put forth so much effort, but he knew full well that being with Jenna would be worth the wait and definitely worth the exercise in self-control.
A soft moan filled the silence of the room as Jenna shifted beneath the sheet again. Apparently she had fallen asleep, but she was restless. Good. Selfishly, he wanted her to be on edge, to be aching because he sure as hell was lying here in a state of...well, he couldn’t quite put the proper term to it.
Another moan escaped Jenna, this one louder, longer. Mac clenched his fists at his side. She was dreaming. His ego liked to think she was dreaming of him, of his proposition. The thought of her with another man irritated him, but he had no permanent claim on Jenna. Wanting intimacy with someone was completely different than wanting a happily-ever-after.
His eyes adjusted even more to the darkened room as he rolled over to watch her. A sheen of sweat covered her face; her lips were parted just enough to be even sexier than usual. The sheet slid down as she shifted again. What the hell was she wearing? Was that...yeah, she was wearing some type of maxi dress. Why?
Mac eased the sheet the rest of the way down her body. No wonder she was sweating. As soon as that layer was off, he stood and reached for the fan control, to kick it up on high. When he turned back to the bed, that long dress had ridden up on Jenna’s thighs. Mercy, the woman was killing him.
He knew she was insecure about her body. They’d never talked about it because he wouldn’t give that negativity any attention. To him, Jenna was absolutely perfect. He didn’t want her to believe her shape defined her. There had to be some way to make her see herself the way he did. To realize that she was a voluptuous, stunning siren and she was valuable to anyone who took the time to appreciate her.
Jenna rolled to her side, facing him. Mac watched the swell of her breast threaten to move over the boundary of the scoop neck of the dress. A tan line ran up around her neck—he resisted the urge to run his finger along the pale skin.
That damn kiss had completely messed with his mind. While he’d always found her sexy as hell, now that he’d fully tasted her, he could think of nothing but tasting her again. For years he’d thrown out one sexual innuendo after another, but he wasn’t kidding any longer. That kiss had changed something in him and as soon as he knocked her guard down and made her his, he could eradicate her from his system and they could circle back to this friendship thing.
Before he could roll away, her lids fluttered open, her eyes locking on to his. She blinked as she licked her lips, her hand moving up to adjust the top of her dress.
“Why are you staring at me?” she asked, her voice husky.
“You were dreaming.” He wasn’t about to answer her question. “And moaning.”
Her eyes widened, then closed briefly before she met his gaze once again. “Did I wake you up?”
Mac shifted on his side more, propping his elbow on the pillow, his head in his hand. “I just came in here. You’re sweating and wearing a dress to bed. Care to tell me why?”
The second he mentioned the dress, she jerked and adjusted the material back down. “I didn’t have proper pajamas for a bedmate and I certainly didn’t plan on you being in my bedroom with me.”
Mac swallowed and fisted the sheet in front of him. “What did you pack?”
“Doesn’t matter.”
Stubborn to a fault. No wonder they got along so well. The push-pull part of their relationship was half the fun.
“What were you dreaming about?” he asked.
When she hesitated, he knew. Good. He liked knowing he was in her thoughts when she wasn’t fully in control.
“Nothing much,” she replied, her eyes darting away.
“With moans like that? I’d say it was something pretty amazing.”
Jenna rolled over the other way, threw her legs over the side and offered him her back. “Drop it, Mac.”
Such emotion for someone who wasn’t dreaming of anything major. He was getting to her, already she was thinking of them together. Seducing her would be a cinch. But he didn’t want to just seduce her, he wanted her to come to him.
“Change your clothes.” When she glanced over her shoulder, he added, “You’re hot, you’re uncomfortable and you need to rest. Whatever you brought to sleep in, I think I can handle it.”
After a moment, she nodded. She went to the chest of drawers, got something out and disappeared into the bathroom. A sliver of light slid from beneath the door and Mac had to force himself not to march in there and take what they both wanted. He only had a week, but he’d give her another day to come to terms with the fact they would be sleeping together in every sense of the word. Lying beside her would be a new test in self-control, but this was his Jenna and she deserved to be treated with respect.
So he’d lie here and be the perfect gentleman...for now. This would be completely new territory for him, but he was willing to make the sacrifice for an epic end result.
When Jenna came back out, he couldn’t tell what she’d put on until she passed by the open window and the soft moonlight flickered across her body. The image lasted only a second, but long enough that he was reevaluating this gentlemanly decision. She wore a silk chemise that hugged her every hollow and curve. The lace trim around the dip just above her backside teased him. What would she do if he ran his finger beneath that edge? If he slid one of those thin, silky straps off her shoulder and showed her how good he could make her feel? Would she prefer the real thing to her dreams?
As she slipped in beside him, Mac gritted his teeth and wished like hell he’d opted to sleep on the deck in the hammock. If he left now, though, she’d have the upper hand and he never gave up control that easily.
“Good night, Mac.”
Facing the opposite direction, Jenna slid the sheet up and over her shoulders as if she wanted an extra layer of defense. A sheet and a piece of satin wouldn’t keep him away, but the fact she was so special to him would. Tomorrow was another day and all of this playing around in pretend-lovers’ bliss would get to her. He’d make damn sure of it.
* * *
Okay, she’d done it. She’d made it through one night sleeping next to Mac and she’d even put on the chemise she’d packed. She loved barely there lingerie, it always made her feel sexy. Unfortunately, she’d risked putting silk and lace on with only one man, years ago...and that plan had backfired. She refused to make that mistake again.
Fortunately it had been dark last night and Mac hadn’t seen her. This morning she’d gotten out of bed before him and could sneak off to shower and throw on another sundress before he got up. She’d thought for sure he’d sleep on the pull-out couch when she’d asked him to meet her here. Never would she have thought he’d use this situation to get closer to her...she should’ve known better.
“Tell me we’re going to have a huge lunch after this flower thing because I’m starving.”
Jenna laughed and swatted Mac on the chest as they walked toward the lobby of the resort. She’d received a call that the flowers she’d custom ordered had arrived and were in the walk-in refrigerator in the kitchen. Jenna was so excited to see all the buds and blooms in various colors. Her sister had wanted a variety because she hadn’t been able to narrow down her colors to just a few.
Being able to work with fresh flowers for a wedding was always a joy for Jenna, but to be doing it for her sister was even more thrilling.
Jenna passed through the open entryway to the lobby and glanced to Mac. “You’re always hungry. How do you not weigh five hundred pounds?” Damn men and their flawless metabolism.
“If I’d had more than yogurt and fruit for breakfast I wouldn’t be so hungry.”
“You’re hangry. It’s okay. I get that way myself.”
His brow lifted behind his dark shades. “Excuse me?”
“Hangry. When you’re hungry and angry,” she explained with a shrug as she reached the counter. “I forgive you and I promise to get you a nice meal when we’re done here.”
She patted his cheek with her free hand and directed her attention to the lady waiting to assist them. After they were escorted toward the kitchen, the woman directed them to the tubs of flowers that had been set outside the back doors for Jenna to sort through. The manager had made sure a workspace was set up for Jenna, and the employees were told to let her in and out as often as she needed while she crafted the various arrangements and bouquets.
The next hour flew by in a whirlwind of buds, greenery and tissue wrappings. Jenna meticulously sorted each bundle, leaving the lilacs off to the side. She’d be taking those back to her bungalow, along with a few other bundles, to start working on the smaller bouquets. Those would fit in the refrigerator in her own kitchen and that way she wouldn’t be scrambling to do so much the day before the wedding.
Jenna glanced at Mac who was enthralled by something on his phone. With his dark eyes drawn in, the muscle ticking in his jaw and the death grip with which he held his phone, Jenna knew something was wrong.
She laid the flowers down and reached across to touch his forearm. “What’s going on?”
Blinking, he looked up. “Just reading an email. I need to make a call.”
Jenna removed her hand as he came to his feet and headed out toward the breathtaking garden area and gazebo, probably where the employees took their breaks. As she watched Mac’s shoulders tighten and tense beneath his blue T-shirt, Jenna wondered what could be so pressing. He glanced to the sky and shook his head as if frustrated with the person on the other end of the line. Whatever it was, she had no doubt this call was work related.
Mac’s work was definitely something she knew very little about. Oh, sure, everyone knew the O’Sheas of Boston—the family, with their auction houses around the globe, was infamous. Mac had actually just opened two more US-based locations in Atlanta and Miami—she may have asked him to open one in Miami so she could see him more often. She’d had no idea he would actually do it and move down there to oversee the office.
But as successful as his family was, Jenna still didn’t know what all the secrets were about and Mac would never betray his family’s trust. She’d never known a man to be so loyal.
Her father certainly hadn’t been. Jenna knew people were responsible for their own actions, but she couldn’t help but blame the man for running out and leaving her mother to turn to the bottle. Those years were pure hell, but with love and the unshakeable bond between a mother and her daughters, Jenna and Amy were able to turn their mother around.
Mac shoved his cell into his pocket and headed back her way.
“You okay?” she asked, bundling up the flower assortment she needed to take back to the bungalow.
“Just work.” He caught a cluster of tissue-wrapped greenery that had started to slide off the table. “We hired a new manager at the main office in Boston. I just needed to get her into Miami to handle some issues concerning the upcoming auction.”
Guilt slid through her. “If you need to go, it’s fine, really.”
Mac reached for her hand and squeezed. “I’m not going anywhere. This is nothing I can’t fix with a couple of phone calls. Now, tell me where to take these so you can feed me that promised lunch.”
Rolling her eyes, Jenna came to her feet and pointed to a pile of flowers. “Be careful with those or you’ll get yogurt and fruit again.”
He picked up the bundle and laughed. “Not many things scare me, but I know if I lose one petal you’ll torture me.”
Jenna carried her own stack and headed out. She informed the staff that they could put the rest away and she’d be back tomorrow to get more. With the flowers in hand, Jenna led Mac back toward their bungalow. The sun was already bright and it was still early. This would be a perfect day to lounge on her deck, fiddle with arrangements and continue working on her tan. Though she knew she wouldn’t be more beautiful than the bride, Jenna wanted to be at her best when she had to walk next to her cheating jerk ex.
As soon as she saw a familiar figure heading her way, Jenna froze. It was as though she’d conjured up the devil himself. She knew the moment was coming, but she was hoping her ex would avoid her for the sake of saving face. Apparently his ego had gotten the best of him.
“Martin’s here,” she muttered, clutching the stems of her bundles even tighter. “Let’s turn around.”
“Like hell.”
Before she knew what was happening, Mac shifted his stash of flowers in the crook of one arm and wrapped his other arm around her. In the same instant, his lips crushed hers, forcing her to hold on to him with her free hand and enjoy the ride. Mac’s mouth demanded more and she was all too willing to give it. This kiss, if something so powerful could have such a simple term, didn’t feel like an act at all. This felt more like a stepping stone to something more private and intimate. And it certainly wasn’t like the one from the other day. This kiss held...promise.
Jenna’s entire body heated. Tingling started low in her belly and she had aches in places she’d never ached before. Mac’s hold on her tightened and Jenna couldn’t prevent the moan that slipped from her lips.
Martin cleared his throat and Mac pulled away. His lopsided grin and a naughty gleam in his eye told Jenna he was enjoying this. Just another reason she couldn’t let her heart tumble into this charade. Mac was a professional player. This game was well within his comfort zone. That made one of them.
Once Mac stepped to her side, his free arm still draped around her shoulders, Jenna got a good look at her ex...and he was fuming.
“What the hell are you doing?” he demanded, staring at Jenna. “I told you I’d be here so we could talk and you’re with this guy? He’s more of a liar and a cheater than I ever thought of being.”
Before she could respond, Mac spoke up. “Apologize to her now.”
Martin’s narrowed gaze darted to Mac. “Who the hell are you to tell me anything? Jenna belongs with me.”
Mac pulled his arm away and stepped between her and Martin. “Not anymore. I’m her fiancé.”
Four (#ulink_581cc1f0-f5cb-5b73-b818-9a90053e82e7)
“I cannot believe you just did that.”
Mac watched as Jenna stormed through their bungalow. She’d carefully set the flowers on the kitchen island and then took off pacing, throwing her arms in the air and muttering words that would make his Irish mother, God rest her soul, blush.
“I only wanted you to pretend to be my boyfriend,” she yelled as she turned to pace in the other direction. “Then you go and tell me you want to be my lover, you have my mother and sister thinking we’re quite serious and you tell my ex we’re engaged.”
Finally, she turned to face him, her hands propped on her hips, her chest heaving. “Are you going to say anything?”
Mac shrugged and placed his flowers next to hers. “That guy is an ass. I’m not sorry for what I said.”
“Are you sorry for the position you put me in?”
Maybe a little, but Mac hadn’t liked this ex. He’d had possessive written all over him and nobody laid a claim on Jenna. Well, this week Mac did, but there was no way in hell Mac would let a guy like Martin have another chance with Jenna. Mac knew the type Martin was—a wealthy playboy who got whatever he wanted...damn it. Mac had just described himself.
But still, Mac worked hard for everything he had and he’d work just as hard to make sure Jenna never had to deal with that jerk again. The fact that Martin knew of the O’Sheas was helpful. Mac didn’t purposely hide behind his name, but clearly Jenna had spoken of him and that only made Mac feel even more protective of her.
“You called me here to help.” Slowly he closed the space between them and rested his hands on her shoulders, bending his knees so he could look her in the eyes. “The whole engaged thing slipped out, but now that it has, we’ll deal with it the same way as before. Once this week is over, we just explain to your family that we decided we’re better off as friends.”
Jenna let out a heavy sigh. “You make this sound so easy.”
He stared down into her mesmerizing eyes. She had a way of drawing him in before he even knew what was happening. Jenna was one of the most important people in his life and he wouldn’t let her down.
“Trust me?” he asked, tipping his head to hold her gaze.
Her features softened as her shoulders relaxed beneath his touch. “You know I do. And it’s not just my family I’m worried about. I’ve dragged you into this—”
“Do I look like I mind?” he asked, offering her a smile.
“You look like you’re having the time of your life.” She laughed. “Don’t get so caught up that you forget we’re just acting.”
Oh, no worries there. No matter how amazing Jenna was, he didn’t want to be tied down to anyone for a lifetime commitment. And that was exactly how he viewed marriage.
“I think I can handle kissing you in public and still remember that we’re just friends,” he told her.
Something flashed across her face, but before he could analyze what it was, the emotion was gone. He wanted inside that head of hers, wanted to know what she truly thought about this entire arrangement...about him. But perhaps it was better to be in the dark. Maybe the truth would have him running in the other direction. Emotions were one area he tried not to venture into.
“Now, what are we doing for lunch?” he asked.
Jenna grunted as she laid her hands flat on his chest and gave him a shove. “You have a one-track mind.”
He raked his eyes over her body, then threw her a wink and a grin. “I actually have a couple tracks, but I’m a whiz at multitasking.”
“Let me put these flowers in the fridge and then we can go get a bite.” She maneuvered around Mac and grabbed the flowers, carefully placing them on the shelf she’d emptied just for this reason. “While we’re out we need to be holding hands. Maybe you can brush my hair back from my shoulders and look at me when I pretend not to notice. You know, do whatever people in love are supposed to do.”
Silently, he closed the gap between them and came within a breath of her. She jumped at his nearness. “And what will you be doing?”
The cool air from the refrigerator did nothing to control the heat inside her. As she straightened and turned, he was literally right there.
“Um...” What was the question? Oh, right. “I guess I’ll be smiling and nodding and hanging on your every word.”
Mac brushed her hair over her shoulders, his fingertips trailing over her bare skin there, then up her neck to her jaw as he framed her face. “No, you’re not that type of woman, Jenna.”
Why was he looking at her like that? Did he give off that “I want to devour you” vibe to his other lovers?
“I’m not?” she whispered.
His thumb brushed along her bottom lip. “No. You’re in control. You don’t even realize it, but any man worth having you would fall under your spell. He’d hang on your every word and you would hold the power.”
Jenna’s breath caught in her throat. She held power? Over whom? Because she might not be experienced in relationships, but she knew she’d never held control over anyone.
“When we go out, I will be the one spellbound. We’ll show this ex exactly what he threw away, because you are worth hanging on to.”
Right. The ex. That’s what all of this was about...right? Why was she having such a difficult time focusing? Oh, yeah. Because Mac had her backed up against an appliance. His body was practically molded against hers and he was looking at her as if she was the main course and dessert all wrapped up in one delectable package.
Jenna couldn’t afford to get tangled up in her emotions. Mac wasn’t good for her; they wanted two very different things in life. But now they were each playing a role and she had to remember it was only for a few more days. Getting swept away by the act of being Mac O’Shea’s lover was only asking for heartache...no matter how much her heart clenched when he looked at her with desire in his eyes.
Reaching up to grip his wrists, Jenna eased his hands away from her face. “There’s a great restaurant here at the resort and normally you need a reservation, but our wedding party has been given full run of the place. They have some amazing local dishes. Let me change and we’ll head out.”
As she stepped aside, the fridge door shut. Just as soon as she moved, Mac blocked her path.
“Am I making you nervous, Jenna?”
Nervous? No. Achy, needy and ready to rip his clothes off? Yes.
“Not at all,” she replied with a wide smile. “I’m worried about pulling this off, especially considering how angry Martin was earlier. He doesn’t like to be told no.”
“Yeah, well, I don’t like the way he talked to you.” Mac looked as if he wanted to say more, but he finally stepped aside and motioned toward the bedroom. “Go get ready. I’ll wait on the deck.”
Jenna rushed to the bedroom and closed the door at her back. They were on the second day of this charade and she only prayed she could make it the final five. Surely this would get easier...it had to, for the sake of her sanity and her heart.
* * *
Lunch was amazing and there were no additional run-ins with Martin the Jerk. Mac hadn’t met the man before today, but just one look was enough to know he wasn’t good enough for Jenna. Mac was actually looking forward to another encounter with him. He’d prefer the next one to be away from Jenna, but whenever the opportunity presented itself, Mac would be prepared. Martin seemed too full of himself to just let Jenna go and be happy. Mac would see to it that Martin would never be able to hurt her again.
“You’re scowling,” she muttered as she looped her arm through his. “People are going to think we’re fighting.”
He patted her hand as he led her down the narrow path toward the beach. “Then we’ll have to kiss and make up in public. I’m fine with that.”
“You just like to kiss.”
Shrugging, he threw her a glance. “You have a great set of lips. Who wouldn’t like to kiss them?”
Jenna reached out to push aside a tropical plant hanging over the walkway. “We’re pretending, no need to start laying on the charm.”
“I wouldn’t lie about something like that,” he replied. As they hit the edge of the sand, he turned to her. “You do believe me, right? I may have to keep secrets from you to protect you and my family but when it comes to other things between us, you’ll only get the full truth from me.”
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