“What would you like to know?”
It was going to be that easy? Marlene should have asked sooner. “Do you have family?”
“I have a younger sister, Adele. She works as an attorney in D.C. Her husband is in politics and they have a son and a daughter.”
“So you’re an uncle.”
Garrett smiled, and his eyes sparkled. Marlene wondered if she was babbling, as he seemed entertained by her. But she hadn’t had that much to drink. “Yes, I’m an uncle. And my parents live in the D.C. area too, in the suburbs.”
“Do you see them often?”
“Not as much as I’d like to. Until recently, I was away a lot. When on deployment I had no contact. They got used to it, though,” Garrett said. “But they know I’m working as a bodyguard now. Maybe I’ll visit this year over the holidays.”
“So Wyatt was how you got hooked up with Stealth?”
“Yes, we’re friends, and we’d been on several missions together. He got out first and had some connections. When he heard that I had to leave the service because of my ankle, he recommended me to Travis.”
“I’m sure they’re glad to have you.”
“I hope so.”
“Your ankle doesn’t seem to bother you too much.”
Garrett smiled. “It’s fine…unless I fall from high buildings, run marathons, or kick in doors.”
“And being a SEAL was that stressful?”
“That and more.”
Marlene tried to imagine all that he’d been through, but she couldn’t. She knew that only the toughest men made it through the training, and into active duty as a SEAL.
“Have you ever been married?” Where did that come from? Marlene’s cheeks warmed. She was getting terribly personal.
“No, I haven’t been married,” Garrett said. “I suppose I’ve been married to my work. Duty called, and that took precedence. Besides, when I was active, it was difficult to imagine starting a relationship. I was hardly ever home, and when I shipped out I couldn’t tell anyone where I was going, or when I’d be back.” He paused. “But some guys do it. They have women back home, even get married. I have to hand it to them.”
That was the most he’d said all at once. Marlene felt like he was opening up to her, like she might really get to know him.
“But I hadn’t found a woman that I wanted to share my life with, or even have a long-term relationship with.” Garrett’s blue eyes pierced straight into her heart. He’d clearly said hadn’t found a woman, not haven’t. Marlene might be splitting hairs, but it might mean there was hope for her.
“I haven’t been married either,” Marlene said. “But then, you already knew that.”
She wanted to say that she hadn’t found the right man before, and nearly said much more. Maybe the alcohol had gone to her head. But she was inclined to think it was because Garrett was not only the sexiest hunk she’d had the pleasure to know, he was also caring—and insanely good in bed. Why did she have to fall for a guy she couldn’t have? And what had happened to her vow to avoid soldiers? Was she willing to head straight for heartbreak?
Marlene stood up. “It’s probably time to go. These parties can last all night, but I’m ready for bed.”
Garrett’s eyes gleamed with lust, and she looked away. Oh, God, what was she doing?
After thanking their hosts, Garrett guided her back to the limo. By the time they got home it was late, so Marlene went to her room, leaving her bodyguard to check on security for the evening. She got into her nightgown and slipped under the covers. Only that wasn’t where she wanted to be.
Marlene desperately wanted to be in Garrett’s arms. She heard him go to his room, then the heavy door clicked shut behind him. She waited, wondering what he was thinking. She imagined him getting undressed, sliding into bed alone. Her body responded; a shiver coursed through her and her skin warmed.
Marlene resisted for as long as she could. She even closed her eyes, reluctant to give in to desire. But she didn’t want to sleep alone. It wasn’t that she was afraid, exactly. Yet there was no way to predict what the future held. For all she knew, it could be their last night together.
The menace that Garrett had held at bay so far might win out against them. All Marlene wanted was to feel Garrett close to her, melt against his strength, and to be together again. Even if this was the last time, and even though it was a bad idea, she relented.
Quietly, Marlene slipped out of her bed and went to Garrett’s room. The door wasn’t locked. She pushed it open, and saw him stretched out on the bed, naked. A delicious tremor went through her at the sight of him, with pale moonlight streaming through the window, making him look like some sort of angel.
Garrett was all muscle and virility, utterly irresistible. Marlene walked over to the bed and lifted her nightgown off. She snuggled into Garrett’s warm embrace, and felt his heat sear her skin. He pulled her close, and pressed her head against his hard chest.
Passion flooded her veins and she closed her eyes. Garrett ran his palm down her spine and cupped the back of her thigh. Then she draped one leg over him, and his mouth covered hers as he devoured her with a hot kiss. Marlene kissed back with equal fervor, sighing with pleasure.
Chapter 18
The next morning, Garrett was up early. He slipped from the warmth of the covers and went to the fitness room for a hard workout. He needed to clear his head. While he jogged on the treadmill, he thought about Marlene. She was still asleep; it had been very late before she’d gotten to sleep—and for Garrett, even later.
He’d held her in the crook of his arm, with her head on his shoulder, listening to her steady breathing. Even now he could feel the warmth of her skin, her softness, and breathe her feminine scent. He was hot for her, and with little provocation would have gone back to the bedroom to take her again. She’d ruined him for any other woman. There wouldn’t be another like her.
In some ways, Garrett had made sacrifices in his life that had cost his personal happiness. He thought of other soldiers with wives back home. He’d often envied them, as they had a woman who cared about them, waiting for their return.
Garrett hadn’t had that, but he hadn’t complained. From all he’d seen and done, he hadn’t been sure that he was capable of a close relationship. Maybe he’d been too damaged and emotionally destroyed. Yet the way he responded to Marlene gave him hope. What he felt for her was strong; it ran deep.
And he would continue to feel that way, even when their time together was over. Garrett couldn’t envision Marlene as part of his life, as much as he loved her. He wasn’t the kind of man for her; she’d said it herself. He was military, and she was a movie star. They couldn’t be more different.
Passion had blossomed between them, and Garrett had welcomed it, despite his better instincts. Memories of the hours he had with her would be all he’d have later. Marlene would move on; she’d find a man that suited her, one who would take her arm under the bright lights of Hollywood.
Garrett wasn’t that man. Although the thought of any other man putting a ring on her finger left a bitter taste in his mouth. That was his possessive nature talking. Marlene wasn’t his, and he had no right to alter her life to suit him.
Also, there was information he kept from her. Garrett couldn’t forget that. She’d know sooner or later. There was no way to seek redemption. What had happened was done. He could only hope she would understand, and not judge him too harshly. But he had no right to expect that of her when he was unable to forgive himself.
*****
After Garrett showered and dressed, he found Marlene in the kitchen with the cook. Laura had made cappuccino to go with croissants. He grabbed a pastry and greeted them through a mouthful of goodness.
Laura smiled. “What would you like to drink?”
“Espresso would be good.”
The cook started to prepare his drink, while Garrett said a proper good morning to Marlene. “You look lovely.” And she did. In a filmy blouse over white jeans, she
looked delectable.
“Did you have a good workout?”
“It was fine. You have some good equipment in there.”
Marlene sipped her drink. “Yes, I have more than I really use. The yoga mats and elliptical machines are my favorite.”
When Laura served the espresso, Marlene suggested they go in the library. “It will be more comfortable.”
Garrett sipped his drink. “I might need another one of these. It’s very good.”
Marlene sat on the floor, yoga style, and reached for a photo book. She began flipping through the pages. “You haven’t seen my family,” she said pushing the book sideways so he could see. “Here is a recent picture of my mother.”
Cynthia Parks was pretty like her daughter. She had a friendly smile and striking green eyes. “You have her eyes,” Garrett said.
Marlene flipped the page. “And here’s one of her with my father.”
Garrett knew her history, and a lot about her family. The background on her had been thorough. But the photographs showed another side, the warmth of a close family. Dean Parks looked young. He’d only been in his late twenties when he died.
Intrigued, Garrett looked over Marlene’s shoulder as she flipped through the book. She stopped at a page of photos. “Andrew,” she said, pointing to one of the pictures. “We were just kids then.”
The knife in Garrett’s gut twisted, and dug deeper. But he kept quiet.
There were many photos of Marlene with her brother, at school, on holidays. Only now Andrew was no longer around to share in his sister’s life, or look out for her. Garrett listened while Marlene shared a couple of stories, things she’d done with her brother that were memorable. She spoke of him with fondness and love.
Then she turned the page, and Garrett caught a glimpse of some baby pictures. Marlene started to close the book. “Wait,” he said. “I want to see those.”
“Oh, that’s embarrassing. My mom took way to many baby pictures. I’m either half-naked on a blanket—mothers tend to like that kind of photo—or I’m dressed up like a baby doll.”
Garrett turned the book so he could see the pictures better. There were a few of her in the cradle, and some in a highchair. Then she was a toddler, cute as a button. It struck him that he was looking at the real Marlene. The sentimental photos had been taken before she’d learned to change and shift depending on circumstances.
Prior to her acting career, Marlene hadn’t needed to pretend so much. And not just on stage, but in life. She’d had the freedom to be herself. As Garrett flipped through the pages, he saw her as a teen, then all dressed up for the high school prom. It was touching, and he felt like he knew her a little better.
“My mom went overboard,” Marlene said, taking the book back.
“I liked them.” Garrett studied her for a moment, seeing her in a different light. Then he remembered his purpose for the day. “I have some business to attend to later. I’ve arranged for Wyatt to be here in my absence. I’m hoping you’re planning to stay home today and relax. I’ll feel better about leaving if I don’t have to worry about you.”
Marlene gave him a demure smile. “I rather like you worrying about me.”
Garrett nearly told her how much he did worry, and what she meant to him. But he didn’t. Instead he resumed his bodyguard demeanor and stood up. “He should be here shortly. I’ll be at Stealth for a while this morning, then I have a few things to do. I should be back before dinner.”
Marlene stuck out her lower lip in a pout. “Well, don’t leave me alone for too long.”
As soon as Wyatt showed up, Garrett prepared to go. “I need to use your car. It will save time.”
“Sure, no problem.” Wyatt tossed him the keys. “She’s a sweet ride; I had the engine tuned up. Don’t get any tickets.”
Garrett laughed. “I’ll keep that in mind.” He headed for the door. “Stay close. I’ll be back as soon as I can.” He trusted Wyatt and didn’t need to give him any instructions. His friend knew the ropes and was up to speed on Marlene’s case. Wyatt was a guy that he’d trust his life with.
The Mini Cooper was silver, with a red top and red racing stripes. Garrett had driven it a few times before. It handled well and was fun to drive. He pulled out of the garage and headed down the driveway, waving at the gate guard as he exited.
It was a cold March day, but the weather was clear. The neighborhood was quiet. The green lawns were neatly trimmed, and flowers bloomed in the gardens. Roses and a variety of poppies dotted the scenery. Garrett’s mind was still on Marlene. Driving along the quiet residential streets, he dwelled on thoughts of her with her brother.
Garrett was torn. He felt like a fraud. Marlene trusted him, but she didn’t know all that she should. It would be best to tell her, but he couldn’t bring himself to do it. With her life hanging in the balance, he didn’t want to share what he’d held back for too long.
Garrett didn’t want to shock her, nor did he want to see the look in her eyes when she realized what had happened. He’d taken her to his bed, and been closer to her than any woman—yet it was going to end badly. He saw no alternative.
If only there was another choice. But there wasn’t. Garrett shouldn’t have allowed the intimacy between them as he had; that was going to make it harder on her. He’d been greedy and now it was too late. He couldn’t go back.
With Marlene in his arms, he hadn’t been able to turn her away. It did no good to pretend he wasn’t guilty. She was the expert at pretense, not Garrett. The knowledge that he withheld tormented him, ate away at his insides.
Garrett was in too deep now. If only he’d told her that first day, but he hadn’t. And each day it was more difficult to envision revealing his sordid past. Andrew had been a young marine, full of life and purpose. He’d fought hard, and been a credit to his country.
Battle was unpredictable. One didn’t know, couldn’t predict every move. That day the sounds of gunfire had been deafening, and smoke from firebombs clouded the air he breathed. It had been Iraq and it had been brutal. Garrett was used to war, to death and destruction.
Yet he’d still found it rough to deal with. The hardest part was seeing one of your buddies die, losing another SEAL, or any serviceman. That day the skirmish had nearly overwhelmed them. As was sometimes the case, the marines had worked right alongside the SEAL team.
Garrett had known Andrew, and talked with him many times. They were friends and had each other’s back. Or they had. The horrifying scene came back in a blur. The roar of guns, the shouts of men, blood and anguish. Garrett’s team had moved out of range and readied for action.
They’d just been stealthily progressing back toward the main unit. They’d taken cover in a partially destroyed building with the marine unit. On cue, they scurried back behind a wall. Garrett hadn’t seen it, but a stray bullet had hit Andrew.
Never leave a soldier behind. Garrett lived by that motto. He’d heard a man call out, “Parks got shot.” Before the other men could react, Garrett held up his hand. “I’m going back for him.” He glanced out at the open space. He’d made it here; he could make it back.
“Cover me,” Garrett said, then ran toward the partially destroyed building. He’d found Andrew crumbled against a wall, bleeding heavily. “I’ve got you. Hang on.” He gently lifted the man over his shoulder and edged toward the opening. It wouldn’t do to get himself killed, as Garrett was Andrew’s only chance for survival.
Shots sounded in the distance; the enemy had probably retreated to a more secure position. Garrett made a break for it. He sprinted back to his men, and lowered Andrew to the ground. Quickly, he ripped off his jacket and pressed it on the open wound. It looked bad.
Andrew tried to speak, and Garrett leaned closer to hear. The man was able to get out a few words before he expired. His thoughts had been of Marlene, his beloved sister. He’d known that Garrett would tell her for him.
But he hadn’t yet. Garrett was riddled with guilt. He’d failed to save the soldier, had
lost Marlene’s brother. He should have made sure all the guys were with them before changing position. Or he should have seen that Andrew had been hit and taken him along when they’d first moved. He might have stopped the bleeding sooner, and her brother might have lived.
Afterward, the team understood. Losing a soldier was hard to take. Garrett had felt the failure, and had taken it hard. His teammates hadn’t offered any inane reassurances, like it wasn’t his fault. No one said anything like that. They were soldiers. They knew. It was something Garrett would have to live with. Death was a part of war, and it didn’t get any easier.
Garrett didn’t know if he could have averted disaster. He’d felt responsible for the younger guys, so brave and idealistic. It did no good to wonder how it could have been different. It hadn’t been, and now the failure and the guilt haunted Garrett.
How could he tell Marlene? There was no way to say that he’d failed to save Andrew without burdening her with more grief. Garrett hadn’t saved him. There was no way to change it, no matter how difficult it was to live with that knowledge.
*****
Garrett snapped back to the present with a shock. He had stopped, and was about to make a right onto Mulholland Drive. He looked left to check for oncoming traffic, and a man on a motorcycle caught his eye. The guy, slowing to turn right onto the residential street, had his helmet shield up, and briefly glanced over at Garrett.
That was all it took. Those blue eyes, icy and cold. Garrett wouldn’t forget them. Those cruel eyes met his, and adrenaline surged in his veins. Son of a bitch. It was Buckner.
Before Garrett could react, Buckner changed course, whipped in front of the Cooper, and sped off on his crotch rocket, heading down Mulholland. In a split second, Garrett was on his ass, hoping that Wyatt’s souped-up car could keep up. “Come on, baby,” he said. “Don’t lose him.” He floored it.
The winding road was fairly clear, making it possible for Garrett to whip around any vehicle in his way. Rage surged in his veins, and his pulse pounded. He couldn’t let the asshole out of his sight; he couldn’t lose him. This was his chance to nab him, and take him out of action for good.
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