“Gentlemen,” Ellie greeted.
Judge Avery raked a lecherous gaze up and down her form, surreptitiously removing his wedding band and sliding it into his suit pocket. “Miss Montgomery, you look beautiful this evening. What can I get you to drink?” Then, to James, he said, “She’s on my tab.” James nodded.
Unfaithful prick . Carter took a long taste of his scotch on the rocks.
“Something decadent,” Ellie replied, berry lips spread in a stunning smile.
“Espresso martini?” the judge suggested.
“Perfect.” She laughed, her head thrown back to reveal the lovely arc of her neck.
Carter fought the urge to kiss up and down its swan-like curve, right there in front of everyone. And leave marks from his five-o’clock shadow that told them she was already taken.
“I’ll have another,” Carter told James.
The only reason Avery had his position as judge was because, like the mayor and councilman, he possessed old money that came with old favors. None of them earned it or did a damn thing to deserve it. Carter tasted disgust at the back of his throat.
“Make it neat,” Carter told James, who poured his drink without ice.
Avery slid closer to Ellie and cupped her elbow. “We never see you at the Tavern Inn beside the courthouse. Lovely girl like you needs to get out more.”
“Is that an invitation?” she asked.
“It is now.” He was feeding out of her hand.
Ellie kept him guessing. “I’ll have to see when I’m available.”
Avery grinned like a gambler who’d hit the jackpot. “I’ll reserve a table for this Saturday.”
Rolling his eyes, Carter turned his back to them. He shrugged in the stiff fabric of his suit that felt unaccountably tight against his shoulders.
“Another,” he flagged James.
“Where’s our invitation?” Councilman Ward quipped on behalf of himself and the mayor.
“Sorry, boys. She’s mine this Saturday. You’ll have to get in line.” From there, they each jockeyed for position to land a spot on her calendar.
Pathetic . Carter removed his suit jacket and tossed it on the bar. None of them cared to get to know her. They just wanted a night between her thighs.
They’ll have to get past me first .
A moment later Russert Montgomery entered, drawing everyone’s attention. He pasted a smile on his face. “My good friends. Welcome to an evening at the Montgomery Hotel. Let us know how we can accommodate you in any way.”
Judge Avery wiggled his eyebrows at Ellie. Carter’s hands curled into fists.
“As your hosts, Eleanor and I open our home and our hearts to you. All we want in return is for you to enjoy yourselves.”
If Russert were anymore plastic he’d melt under the chandeliers. However, this was the one man Carter counted on his side. “James, please pour our host a glass of the finest scotch in the house. On my bill.”
“Indeed, sir.” James nodded his approval at Carter’s gesture.
The other three men looked disgruntled they hadn’t thought of it. Anyone can hit on a beautiful woman, but those who played to win always bet on the house.
Then Andre signaled that dinner was ready. Carter acknowledged the cue. He cleared his throat. “Gentlemen, and lady, my chef has prepared a memorable dinner. When everyone has taken their seats he’ll bring out the first course.”
The men gathered around the large circular dining table set for the occasion. Three of the four guests of honor shuffled their seats hoping Ellie would sit by them. Carter didn’t bother. He chose his chair. Ellie hurried to snag the seat beside him. Carter’s pleasure soured when Marquell took the chair directly across from him.
“Regarding your chef,” remarked the mayor, “I’ve heard great things about his cuisine.”
Carter dipped his chin in a humble nod, well-acquainted with Andre’s expertise. “I only hire the best.”
“I’m looking forward to it,” Ellie said. “This will be a new experience.”
Pulling out her chair, Carter waited for her sit down. Then he seated himself.
The mayor directed the conversation to Ellie. “This is your hotel. Are you saying you’ve never had the privilege of this chef’s cuisine?”
“Special circumstances.” She winked at the mayor.
Every man at the table beamed as though this special occasion was for his benefit.
“We’re pleased to join you,” said Councilman Ward, lifting his glass. “Here’s to fine food and excellent company.”
They all raised their glasses to his toast.
As expected, Andre did not disappoint. Despite the extremely last-minute request, he served up a four-course dining experience worthy of the British Crown.
During dinner, Carter watched Ellie out of the corner of his eye. She was exquisite. Every mannerism faultless, every witticism drawing a laugh or nod of appreciation.
After tonight, he wouldn’t have to steal glances—or keep his hands to himself. The notion soothed his growing possessiveness.
Once James and Matilda had cleared away the dinner plates, the recessed lights dimmed. The mood thickened. Candlelight and chandeliers cast uncertain shadows over the table.
Russert leaned forward, steepling his fingers. “As most of us know, the Montgomery Hotel has fallen on hard times. The economic distress swallowing the country doubles its devastation on more insular places such as El Dorado Island.”
The group nodded gravely. Marquell flicked his toothpick back and forth between stern lips.
“With this in mind, I speak on behalf of my niece and late brother requesting an extension for the monetary provisions we’re here to discuss tonight.”
Glances were exchanged. As the silence lengthened, Ellie twisted her hands in her lap.
“I understand the hotel is up for sale,” Ward remarked.
“That’s true,” Ellie said, turning to Carter. “Isn’t that why you’re here, Mr. Stratton?”
Carter nodded. “I saw the post in Elite Southern Properties magazine. An irresistible opportunity.”
“Isn’t that wonderful?” Ellie said a little too brightly. “When will your purchase go through?”
“No one can make an offer yet, as your uncle explained to me. There’s an auction Friday. Highest bidder walks away with the prize.” He draped his arm across the back of Ellie’s chair.
“I see.” Biting her lip, she stared at the center of the table where a large candle flickered in a crystal globe.
The soft glow reflected in her dewy eyes, drawing elegant shadows across her face. He fought the urge to kiss the frown tugging the corners of her mouth. Then take her back to his room, pull her into his arms, and make love to her until her doubts fell away.
Along with Carter’s pending ultimatum to her, his offer came with his protection, physically and financially. She’d never have to worry about money, or pleasing another man, ever again.
Mayor Flemming and Councilman Ward exchanged dark looks. Then the mayor spoke. “We had the property evaluated by a third party. We’re not convinced you can raise the capital necessary to repay the loans and fees you owe the Revitalization Committee with the sale of this hotel.”
Councilman Ward leaned in. “What, exactly, is your starting bid?”
Unperturbed, Russert explained, “The bid starts at the value our financiers determine. To find out this information, you must be in attendance Friday afternoon at three o’clock, when the auction commences.”
Marquell spoke up. “There’s one person who won’t be in attendance.”
Ellie must’ve realized the police chief was staring her down. She blinked rapidly and her cheeks blazed crimson.
Carter cupped her shoulder, his thumb tracing soothing circles along the base of her neck. “What does that mean?” he demanded on her behalf.
Marquell ignored him and looked straight at Russert. “The time for concessions has come and gone.” The police chief withdrew a tri-folded paper
from his inner coat pocket, tossing it on the table. “I have a warrant.”
Russert shot to his feet. “This is outrageous.” He gestured to Judge Avery. “Did you sign this order?”
Avery squirmed in his seat. “It’s not exactly how it seems...”
“Then how is it?” Ellie demanded, her eyes blazing like the sun. “This is my life you’re debating.”
The table went silent.
Shoulders squared, she addressed the men. “Did you gather tonight to watch the show? To break us down further, because our backs are against the wall, and you enjoy kicking people when they’re down?” Her voice trembled, but she recovered. “We’re already as low as we can go without signing the entire hotel over to you, to pay for the loans my father accepted.”
Russert inhaled sharply through his nose. Carter rubbed a hand over his eyes, knowing she’d unintentionally invited trouble.
Marquell grinned malevolently. “That’ll work.”
Ellie softened her tone. “Please, two more days. That’s all I’m asking. When the sale is complete, you will have the money and interest on your Revitalization Loan.”
Marquell made a great show of unfolding the warrant. “You’ve had a long reprieve, Miss Montgomery. This warrant was signed back in—” He peered at the date, drawing out the suspense. “September. These good folks have given you two months to pay up. Now, you’re going to have to come with me.”
Chapter 8
Oh, my God, I’m going to jail .
Perspiration broke out across Ellie’s forehead. Her skin prickled as if she’d fallen face first onto a cactus. Her mouth went bone dry. She tried to swallow, but her throat rebelled like she’d gulped a bucket of sand.
Panicking, she flicked her glance from Carter to her uncle. Russert looked furious. Carter tapped his shoe under the table as if he could barely restrain his aggression.
Jaw clenched, eyes flashing a dangerous gunmetal gray, he appeared ready to kill someone. Though his hands rested flat on the table, Ellie believed if Bill Marquell made a move, Carter would wrap his fingers around the police chief’s throat.
Her stomach pitched with fear.
What am I going to do?
To her mortification, Andre’s marvelous dinner was about to make a second appearance. She swallowed hard, trying not to vomit. Lashes fluttering, she parted her lips to speak. No words came. What could she possibly say?
She scooted her chair back, wishing she could stop shaking. She prepared herself to go into custody.
Then James appeared. “At Mr. Stratton’s request, I’ve brought up something rare from the cellar.” Holding the antique green bottle with a serving cloth, James tipped the faded label for everyone to see.
Judge Avery tore his gaze away from Ellie’s breasts to retrieve his reading glasses. “My word...”
Councilman Ward’s expression registered shock. “Is this what I think?
Carter explained. “We’ve made arrangements to provide each of you with a case of genuine bootlegged Jamaican rum and Italian wine—aged for over ninety years.”
“I’ll be the judge of that.” The police chief drained his whisky and slammed down his glass.
James uncorked the bottle of rum and poured.
At the first sip, Mr. Marquell’s eyes bugged out. “This,” he rasped, “would pickle a pig’s liver. Where in the name of Ben Franklin did you get it?”
“The Montgomery Hotel holds many treasures.” Carter nodded at the bottle. “I recently discovered one of them.”
Marquell eyed him. “A case of this would sell for a fortune.”
“It’s yours. Do with it what you like.”
The priceless cases were distributed promptly. “This is unbelievable,” the mayor remarked. “Was El Dorado Island used for rum-running during Prohibition?”
Carter nodded. “Looks that way.”
Astonished, Ellie watched as the hostilities started to fade. She stared at Carter. He grinned and winked at her. She was glad she’d scheduled the shipment of cases for pick-up tomorrow morning, instead of earlier this afternoon. Otherwise they wouldn’t have had three cases to offer. She bit her lip, eyeing the cases that were bartered for her future. That would mean less to put up for auction, and less money in her pocket in the end. But hopefully the broker, Neville, would work his magic, securing some sort of value for the collection.
Uncle Russert capitalized on the opportunity Carter had afforded them. “I hope this gesture of good faith will serve as a reminder that the Montgomery family history goes back generations on this island. We will always repay our debts. Now, we move into the future on the foundation we have always stood upon—integrity and solidarity.”
As sugar-coated as his words sounded, everyone seemed mollified.
Except Bill Marquell. As the police chief reached for the warrant, Carter snatched it, his expressive gray eyes scanning the document. When he finished, he promptly tore it in half.
Marquell slammed his fists on the table and rose menacingly. “You think you’re special, boy? That you can disrespect the law and not deal with the consequences?”
“What consequences?” Carter stifled a yawn. “The warrant expired last week.”
Fuming, Marquell snatched it back, read the dates. “Son of a—” He glowered at Judge Avery.
The judge shrugged. He treated Ellie to a sublime smile. “As I said before, it’s not exactly as it seems.”
The police chief glanced around like a cornered animal braced to attack.
Carter said, “I think you can show yourself out now, Bill.”
The use of his first name pushed the chief past the breaking point. Ellie sat back, prepared to duck.
Face glowing like a red light bulb, Marquell grabbed his cowboy hat, shoved a cigar in his mouth and headed for the exit.
Before leaving, he turned and pointed at Ellie and Carter. “I’m not through with you yet.” He stormed out.
Carter slid his hand over hers. “I know your freedom came at a high price, Ellie. And I know you hoped to sell those at auction. But I think for now your problems are solved.”
“At least this one is. Thank you,” she whispered. “I wouldn’t have thought to use the liquor to buy them off.”
“It worked. That’s what counts.” Smiling, he released her hand.
When Ellie didn’t let go, he adjusted his grip and laced his fingers through hers. Their mated hands rested on her lap, relaxed, secure. If only the rest of her future felt this safe. Despite their easy slide into relationship mode, nothing about their renewed connection was simple.
Would Carter buy the hotel? Did he plan to stay? How would this affair end?
At the thought of him leaving, a sickening sensation swam through her body. That’s when she knew.
Ellie was falling for Carter. All over again.
She let go of his hand, folding her arms tight across her stomach. Her mind condemned the realization, counting her a fool. Unfortunately, her heart wasn’t listening.
At midnight their guests indicated it was time to leave. She and Carter walked them to the door, helping them with their cases from the collection.
They said their goodbyes. Uncle Russert commended Carter for his quick thinking, then bid them goodnight, leaving her and Carter standing alone in the foyer.
His expression changed from remote to sultry. “Did you wear that dress on purpose, to drive me insane all night?”
“I wanted to get your attention.”
“You have it.”
He crossed the space between them in two strides. Hauling her against him, he captured her mouth with a heated kiss.
Her insides quivered with desire. She wanted to give in to his urgency, let him whisk her away and make love to her for hours.
But she needed answers.
After several attempts, she finally convinced Carter to stop kissing her and let her speak. “I want to know what your intentions are,” she said firmly.
“I’m taking you back to my room, ge
tting you out of that dress, and tossing you into my bed.” He bent forward to taste her again.
She placed a finger over his lips. “I mean in the future. Where is this leading, Carter?”
“If you’re asking me what I want, I think that’s obvious.”
“What do you want from me ?” she clarified.
“You are what I want.” His eyes blazed with fierce possessiveness.
“What about the hotel?”
He kissed her skin through the diamond cut-out of her dress, swirling his tongue along her cleavage. “That, too.”
“But what are your intentions,” she demanded.
When he pulled back, the angles in his face were sharp and foreboding, his expression unyielding. “You want it spelled out?”
Finally, she was getting somewhere. “Yes, I need to know before this goes any further.”
“I think you crossed that line in the lighthouse, sweetheart. And when you held my hand tonight. And how you’ve turned to me every time there’s a problem you can’t solve.” His odd tone sent a shiver of warning through her. “You need protection, and you want stay with the hotel as the manager.”
She nodded warily.
“And I want you in my bed. I want your body. I want your soul. When I buy this hotel, you will belong to me.”
Shocked, she felt a tide of indignation rush through her. “I’m not a thing you can possess.”
“That’s my offer, Ellie. Why I came back to El Dorado Island.” His gaze turned cool, calculating. “Did you think I planned to buy the hotel out of charity?”
“I knew you had ulterior motives. I saw signs, the way you looked at me, the way you seduced me—”
“Wait, whose idea was it to cross the line from rivals to lovers? Because everything that’s happened between us since I showed up tells me you want me. You need me.”
A horrible sense of betrayal crawled through her veins. “On terms you get to decide? Where does that leave me?”
“Think about.” Ruthlessness pinched the corners of his eyes, and she felt as if he’d suddenly become a complete stranger, a man bent on possession, and revenge. “I’ll keep you here, Ellie, under my protection. You’ll never have to worry about money again. You’ll never have to worry about your position here. You’ll never suffer the advances of other men. You are mine. In exchange, you agree to my demands.”
The Tycoon's Seductive Revenge Page 9
