by Sienna Snow
“Keep your panties on, asshole, and drive. These kids are valuable. If they’re offering six mil for them dead, what do you think they’re worth alive?”
“No!” The first stab of a knife ripped through my stomach.
Stop, Please, Someone help me!
“Arya!”
My body shook and shuddered.
“Arya. Wake up, baby.”
“Max!” I cried, as he dragged me up from the depths of my nightmare.
“I’m here, baby.” Max cradled me in his arms.
Sweat covered my body, and the night air prickled my skin. I burrowed into his arms, soaking in his warmth. “Please don’t leave me.”
He kissed the top of my head. “I’m not going anywhere.”
I released a loud sob and poured my tears and pain out. He held me as I bawled without control, crooning and rocking me. After what felt like days, I stopped crying and whimpered into his chest.
“I’m here. I’ve got you.”
I breathed in his comforting scent and allowed my heart to calm.
It had been six weeks. This was the longest I’d gone without dreaming of the terror. Why tonight? I shivered as a chill ran down my spine. It was because I thought I’d lost him; because I was alone again.
“Want to tell me about it?”
I hiccuped and shook my head. “No. I…I…can’t talk about it. It was too real.”
Sighing, he reclined back into the bed with me cocooned against him. He slid his palm against my stomach and held me tight.
“One day, will you tell me?” he whispered into my ear.
“Yes, soon.”
“You promise?”
“Yes.”
We remained quiet, listening to the cascade of the waves outside. This man brought me peace. It wasn’t his fault what happened to me, and I couldn’t punish him for it. I wanted to be happy with him.
“Is there any way you can come to the conference?”
“No, I’m sorry. My meetings are set in stone. Until dinner, I had no idea you even wanted me there.”
My heart sank. “That’s okay. I guess I’ll see you at the Carson Ball.”
Max rolled and leaned over me. Brushing my hair back, we peered into each other’s eyes. “Will you be my date for the ball and spend the weekend with me in Miami?”
I hesitated but then thought better of it. It was time I met him halfway. “Yes, I’d love to spend the weekend with you.” Smiling, I grasped his hair and drew him forward, capturing his lips. “Make love to me, Sir.”
“With pleasure.”
Forty-eight hours later, I stood on the observation deck of the Mandarin Oriental Miami and gazed out at the beautiful turquoise ocean. The warm, late-morning breeze felt soft and inviting.
Today I would announce the official international launch of my foundation at the United Nations Women’s Conference. Even after giving hundreds of speeches over the past few years, butterflies swam in my stomach.
This was the most important speech I’d ever give. Thank God, both Milla and Lex would be in the audience. Seeing familiar faces would help me stay focused. If only Max was coming, but that was my fault. I shouldn’t have made him feel like I didn’t need him. Me and my brilliant plan to keep everything separated.
I closed my eyes and I blew out a deep breath.
You can’t hold the past against him anymore. You have to talk to him, Arya. Let him know you want it to be real, not something hidden.
If I did what my heart wanted me to, I’d have to tell him about our girls. Then I’d have to admit I did something just as bad as he did by leaving me. Would he forgive me? Would he still want me, knowing those lost babies were the only ones we’d have?
Well, I wouldn’t know unless I risked talking to him. I nodded to myself. The next time I saw him, I’d tell him everything.
“Excuse me.”
“Yes.” I opened my eyes and glanced to my side. A petite Indian lady and her twins walked over. The girls, no more than nine, gazed at me. My heart hitched. They were lovely. Like my own would have been, if they’d survived.
“Are you Arya Rey?”
From the corner, I saw James and a few of my security detail walking toward us, ready to intercept the family. I gestured for them to stay back and answered the question.
“I am.”
“My name is Minu. My girls”—she gestured next to her—“Lima and Riya, insisted on coming to meet you.”
I smiled at them and shook their hands. “How are you three ladies today?”
“See, I told you, Mom. She’s just like us.” Both girls spoke in unison.
I couldn’t help but grin bigger at the glare their mother gave them.
The mom turned back to me. “We’re sorry to disturb you, but my girls recognized you and wanted to meet you in person.”
“You weren’t disturbing me. I was going over a speech I’m giving at a conference this evening.”
“What conference?” One of the twins blurted out.
“I’m here for the UN Women’s Conference. Have you heard of it?”
“We talked about it in school. Our teacher said the purpose was to bring attention to areas of the world where women aren’t treated well.”
“That’s part of it, but the other part is to show women that knowledge is power. Did you know that teaching a woman in a developing nation basic skills like sewing could help her support her family and keep them out of poverty?”
“Really?” The twins spoke again together.
I laughed at the wonder on the girls’ faces. Their interest warmed my heart. “Yes, that’s why I run the foundation through ArMil.”
“Ms. Rey, we don’t mean to take up your time. I know you’re busy. My girls admire everything you’ve accomplished. And the fact that you’re Indian means so much to them.”
The mother’s words humbled me. I’d never thought of myself as a role model, but to many young girls I was someone to aspire to be like.
Instead of focusing on the past, I should have focused on the present.
“Please don’t worry about my time. Meeting you and your girls was exactly what I needed. Would you three ladies care to join me for some dessert?” I gestured to the bakery café across the street from the hotel observation deck.
The twins giggled and jumped around. The mom hesitated but agreed. “Sure. As you can see, my girls are over the moon.”
“We can show her the city as well,” they said in unison.
Lima and Riya were better than any tour guide I could imagine. Their enthusiasm was contagious, and by the end of the afternoon, I had learned everything possible about Miami and the girls. From their favorite subject at school to their perfect choice for superstar boyfriend. The girls even brought James out of hiding with their desire to meet a “real-life spy man,” as they called him.
The four of us walked back to the hotel a few hours before I left for the conference. “Thank you, Minu, Lima, and Riya. I thoroughly enjoyed myself. Next time you’re in Boston, let me know. Here’s my office number.” I handed Minu my business card. “Let my assistant Kerry know who you are, and she’ll help me arrange my schedule to come hang out with you.”
James held open the door. “Ms. Rey, I don’t mean to rush you, but Ms. Castra texted to inform me that we need to get you to the center sooner than expected.”
“James, we still have two hours. What could be so important to get there early?”
“The Secret Service needs to clear anyone who’ll be within close proximity to the First Lady. That would include you.”
My stomach jumped into a somersault. There went all the good vibes and relaxation of the day. No more tourist time for me; back to reality and the reason I was in Miami.
Less than two hours later, after a detailed security inspection by the Secret Service, I walked onto the stage where the rest of the conference presenters gathered. I’d practiced my speech and the calming meditation cues Milla had taught me, but my panic wouldn’t settle. Th
e ringing in my ears grew louder and my anxiety peaked.
Breathe, Arya. Take slow, deep breaths.
I scanned the audience, and found Milla and Lex sitting in the crowd. Milla blew me a kiss and mouthed, Good luck. My cheering squad never failed me. I hadn’t heard most of the First Lady’s speech, but I recognized my name and refocused on her introduction.
“Arya Rey represents what every young women can achieve. From humble beginnings, she used knowledge as the key to success. Even in a world where the other, less inviting sex drove technology. Don’t tell my husband I said that.” The crowd laughed. “She allowed her work to speak for itself and pushed past all the naysayers. Today she is one of the most successful women in the world. Her business accomplishments are overshadowed only by her desire to help other women use knowledge and education to overcome strife and create opportunities for a better life. Please welcome our keynote speaker, Arya Nema Rey.”
I exhaled and moved to the podium. I shook the First Lady’s hand, faced the audience, and let the words I’d practiced flow free. A light sparked in many young faces as I spoke about using my brain to overcome all the hurdles life threw my way. Many of the girls came from the same type of homes I had. Some with even less. I told a story about how a mother kept her family out of poverty by learning to sew and explained how knowledge most of us think of as inconsequential could make a difference in so many lives.
As I approached the announcement of the foundation’s launch, my eyes caught bright emerald ones watching me from the back of the room.
Max. He came.
He smiled and all of a sudden, the apprehension and uneasiness from earlier vanished.
“Before I conclude my speech, I have an announcement to make. Today, Milla Castra and I are officially launching the Women’s Initiative Foundation with the commitment of one billion dollars over the next five years through the AlySas Fund.
“I named the fund after two beautiful girls who were never allowed the chance to spread their wings. In their memory, we will focus on providing education and opportunity for any woman interested in bettering her life. Thank you—and remember, things can be taken away, but knowledge remains with you for life.”
The crowd erupted in applause and cheers. I released a sigh and proceeded to the end of the stage, shaking hands with the other presenters as I moved toward James, who waited to usher me back to our car. I glanced behind me, but Max was gone. At least I had gotten a glimpse of him.
I walked out the conference hall, signed a few autographs, and posed for pictures.
“Ms. Rey, he left a few seconds after you concluded your speech,” James whispered while escorting me past the swarm of reporters.
“I’m in way over my head, James,” I announced as I climbed into a waiting car.
“We both knew that from the moment you two were reunited. Now all either of you can do is ride this train out.”
My only problem remained attempting to figure out where I would end up.
CHAPTER NINETEEN
The phone rang for the third time as I was putting the final touches on my hair and makeup. “Hey, Mil,” I said.
“I called you earlier. Why didn’t you answer?”
“Because I wanted to shut down technology and enjoy a scorching bath, Mom.” I clipped the last of my curls into place and pushed the speaker button. “Talk to me while I finish getting ready.”
“What happened to the glam squad?”
“I cancelled.”
“What? Are you crazy?”
I glanced at Max’s suitcase and duffel bag in the closet and my heart skipped a beat.
When he asked me to be his date and spend the weekend with him, I didn’t think he’d be able to rearrange his schedule. I expected him to come in for the ball and then jet off to Japan the moment it ended. Then when I saw him in the audience during my speech, I realized he was there for me, not out of obligation, but because I mattered to him.
Arya, it’s time to let him know he’s important to you too. No more secrets.
“It would look suspicious if they noticed any of Max’s thing in the suite. No one knows Max and I are here together.”
“Ari…”
“I know, Mil. I’m working on it. I actually plan to talk to him about it tonight. By the way, how’d I do during the speech?”
“Nice change of subject. You did well for someone who was going to vomit on the First Lady.”
“Thanks for the vote of confidence.”
“Lex and I joked about what the headlines would read. Our favorite was: DISTINGUISHED ARYA REY TOSSES HER COOKIES ON THE PRESIDENT’S WIFE AFTER ANXIETY ATTACK.”
“You both suck, making fun of me when you know how I feel about speeches.”
“Seriously, you did great. Especially during the second half, you seemed calmer. Your face went all soft and relaxed. If I were a guessing gal, I’d say you caught a glimpse of your sexy Dom.”
“Umm…maybe.” No point in denying the obvious.
“In a sense, I’m glad you did. Don’t get me wrong, your speech was great, but initially you were the controlled Arya Rey of the news reports. Then after you saw him, you were the approachable and lovable Arya that our company knows. I think it gave the announcement more meaning and credibility.”
“I’m glad my need for Max worked in our favor.”
Shit, I said that aloud. Oh well, no denying the truth. Hey, I’m making progress.
Milla didn’t respond. That meant she didn’t like what I’d said.
“What?” I exclaimed and clasped my earring on my ears.
“Have you fallen back in love with him?”
This time I didn’t reply. I unhooked my dress and slid it on.
“Well?”
Damn Milla for picking up on everything. “Yes. No, that’s not true. I never stopped loving him. Why do you think no guy I went out with interested me?”
“Eventually he’s going to catch on. Most likely sooner rather than later.”
I crossed my arms and glared at the phone. What was I doing? She couldn’t see my scowl.
“Has he seen the scars?”
I closed my eyes and sat back down. “No.”
“Arya.”
“I know.” I pressed my fingers against my temples. Great, now I have a headache. “I’ve thought of telling him nonstop, but in the end I never go through with it.”
“He’s going to figure out you’re hiding something,” Milla countered.
“I wouldn’t be surprised if he hasn’t already. I’m never fully undressed in front of him. Hell, I lock the damn door to shower.”
“Ari, you have to talk to him. He wanted to marry you before you came up with your stupid plan for a no-strings-attached relationship.”
“I kept his children from him. I’m scared that I’ll lose him when he finds out.”
“What if you don’t?”
I closed my eyes for a moment, taking a deep breathe.
Tonight. I’ll tell him tonight.
“Mil, I need to go. Max will be here any minute.”
At that moment, the bell to the suite’s elevator rang and the sound of footsteps echoed in the living area. I jumped up and slipped on my shoes.
Please wait in the other room.
“Saved by the bell. Go enjoy yourself tonight, while those of us who weren’t invited stay home to work.”
“Whatever you say, boss,” I laughed. “Love you. I’ll see you back at home in two days.”
“Love you too, bella.”
I ended the call, took a deep breath, and went to meet Max.
I opened the door and found him waiting by the couch. Dressed in a perfectly tailored tuxedo, he was every woman’s fantasy. The cut of the jacket accentuated his broad shoulders and his lean, muscled frame. I licked my lips. This gorgeous man was mine.
He approached me and ran a finger down the side of my face, along my cheek, and over my neck. His hungry gaze devoured me. “You take my breath away.” He lifted my hand and k
issed it.
I looked great and felt confident. My floor length, navy-silk dress hugged my body in a lover’s embrace. Silver beading lined the high neck and trailed the fringe of the open back that was just shy of revealing. My waist-length hair gave the illusion of cover, but as I moved, it would hint at the secret underneath.
“Thank you. Your friend Caitlin designed it especially for me.”
Max smiled. “So my secret is exposed. When did you find out?”
“The night of the fund-raiser.” I grinned back. “We became friends while visiting the ladies’ room.”
He skimmed his hands along my arms, sending goose bumps throughout my body.
“So what do you think?” I twirled and smiled at Max over my shoulder.
His eyes darkened. His hunger shot through me like a bullet. He liked the back. “Turn for me again, Arya.”
Oh, the voice.
I followed his command. He gathered my hair to the side and ran his finger from my neck all the way to where the beading started above the lower dip of my waist. My core throbbed from his possessive touch.
“Did you wear your hair down for me?”
“Possibly.”
“When we return, you will go straight into the bedroom. Do not take anything off except your shoes. You will wait for me at the foot of the bed. I have plans for that beautiful, naked back.”
I nodded my agreement.
“I didn’t hear you.”
“Yes, Sir.” My voice came out wispy.
He placed his hand on my lower back, motioning me toward the door. “We better get going.” He paused before we exited. “Just so you know.”
I looked up.
“Tonight will be the last time you will ever wear that dress. I don’t like others seeing what belongs to me without permission.”
My breath hitched, as excitement tingled through me.
Looks like our conversation will have to wait until the morning.
We arrived at the Carson mansion thirty minutes after leaving the hotel. The trip was short but filled with lighthearted banter. The serious conversation I’d had with Milla was all but shoved to the back of my mind.
