by I. T. Lucas
Warning: The excerpt from Dark Stranger Revealed contains a steaming hot love scene that is inappropriate for readers under the age of 18.
Deleted Scene
The salon owner put the nail polish away and leaned back in her chair. "Good Karma for you. You do good, you get good karma. You do bad, you get bad karma. You find good woman for your brother, karma find good man for you. This how it work."
"You're sure about it?"
"I know it. Every day I see it. Like I told my grandson. If you nice, it come back to you twice."
Not really.
Sometimes the fates were cruel for no good reason. Amanda hadn't done anything to deserve the tragedy that had befallen her all those years ago. At the time, her pain and her anger had been so great that she would've destroyed the world and everyone in it--the good with the bad. Fortunately, she wasn't an omnipotent being, and the only one she'd ended up destroying was herself.
On that terrible day almost two centuries ago, the old Amanda had ceased to exist, and the new Amanda who'd emerged from her ashes was a made up person with an impenetrable shield around her heart.
Fear, however, still managed to percolate through the tiniest of cracks in her protective layers.
What if the cruel fates weren't done with her yet?
What else would they take away from her?
Amanda was almost expecting it. This time, though, she was prepared. The walls she'd worked so hard on building around her heart would save it from breaking again.
Turn the page to read an Excerpt from
DARK STRANGER REVEALED
Book 2 In Syssi & Kian’s Story
DARK STRANGER REVEALED
Book 2 In Syssi & Kian’s Story
Is available on Amazon
EXCERPT
“Wow, that was one hell of a kiss,” Syssi breathed. More like a total meltdown.
She was grateful for the call that had interrupted what might have ended in Kian’s bedroom. It had broken the spell. If not for the emergency that had required Kian’s immediate attention, she would’ve let him take her to his bed and would’ve regretted it dearly.
Even though she was no longer mad at him, Syssi still refused to become another notch on his belt. She held herself to higher standards.
Oh, God, she wished she didn’t.
Relinquishing her outdated standards for a morning of passion with Kian would’ve been worth the sacrifice. The fire he’d ignited in her was like nothing she’d ever experienced before and she craved more, wanted to explore it and find out where it led.
Still hot and bothered, she wondered how long he’d be gone. It depended on what kind of emergency it was. Must’ve been something major to bother the CEO on a Sunday morning. Unless he’d used it as an excuse to leave and cool down.
For some reason, Kian was fighting his attraction to her.
Did he deem her beneath him?
It wasn’t as if he was some kind of an aristocrat while she was a pleb. The only things that defined social strata in the United States were money and political connections. Granted, she had none, but Kian didn’t strike her as snob. Maybe it had something to do with her working for his sister. He might have regarded a relationship between them inappropriate because of his financial connections to the lab. According to Amanda, her research was funded by one of the corporations owned by their family.
Syssi shook her head and gathered the dirty dishes left over from their brunch. Guessing would bring her nothing other than a headache. She would have to grow a set and ask Kian what was his deal.
God, what a big mess her simple life had become.
As she carried the dishes to the kitchen and got busy at the sink, Syssi reflected on the recent upheaval in her orderly routine. In the span of less than twenty-four hours, she had been chased by a group of dangerous zealots, spellbound by her boss’s gorgeous brother, and hypnotized by him to forget all about it, including meeting him, only to have Kian star in her most erotic dreams ever.
In the light of day, however, the real Kian was better than any dream, and to be wanted by a man like him was one hell of a heady feeling.
If she was wanted, that is.
The man was a puzzle she couldn’t decipher, a mystery. Not a problem she’d encountered often. Most people were transparent to her, their motives clear.
That fact in itself was cause for alarm, and then there was her insane response to Kian.
Syssi didn’t know what to make of that. Yes, he was gorgeous, intelligent and successful, but that shouldn’t have been enough to induce such a profound transformation in her.
The woman who had thought of herself as not all that sexual had been turned into a mindless puddle of need. And even more shockingly, it seemed that her newfound passion had a somewhat kinky twist to it.
Who would have thought?
Embarrassed, Syssi felt her face heating and attacked the dishes with renewed vigor, soaping and scrubbing the already clean plates.
“Please, mistress, let me.” Gently but firmly, the butler took the plate she was washing out of her hands, then led her away from the sink.
“I’m sorry, I just thought to make myself useful.” The poor guy probably thinks I’m after his job. “I’m not the kind of guest who needs to be waited on. I like to help.”
“Oh, but madame, it is my distinct pleasure to serve you. You would not wish to deprive an old man of his pride and joy now, would you?” He smiled his weird mannequin smile.
Manipulative butler.
“Well, of course not…” And although it was hard to tell, she hazarded a guess that he was in his early forties—hardly an old man. “But please, call me Syssi.”
Okidu squared his shoulders. “I certainly will not.” He affected indignation with a heavy British accent. “Let me show you the guest rooms, madame.” He dipped his head and extending his arm motioned for her to precede him down the corridor.
There were four luxurious bedroom suites in addition to Kian’s and the butler’s, each decorated in its own unique color scheme and style.
Syssi chose the smallest of the four, snorting as she was reminded of Goldilocks in the Three Bears’ House.
“May I unpack your luggage, mistress?” Okidu asked as he brought her duffle bag inside the walk-in closet.
“No, thank you. I’ll do it myself.”
“As you wish, madame.” He bowed, then eased out of the room, gently closing the door behind him.
Syssi emptied her bag, fitting the few things she had brought with her all on one shelf, then moved on to the bathroom to deposit the Ziplock bag containing her toiletries and makeup on the vanity.
Eyeing the large jacuzzi tub, nestled within an intimate enclave with a big window overlooking the cityscape, she was tempted to try it out. Which reminded her that there was a lovely lap pool out on the terrace, and it would be a damn shame if she didn’t take advantage of it while staying at Kian’s amazing penthouse. The tub could wait for later.
Problem was, she didn’t bring a swimming suit. Syssi was about to give up on the idea when a simple solution popped in her mind. In a pinch, a solid black bra and matching undies could pass for a bikini.
Still, on the remote chance that Okidu was more astute than most men and would guess it was underwear, Syssi wrapped a large towel around her makeshift swim attire.
The sun was warm on her skin as she stepped onto the terrace. Hopefully, the pool was heated and the water was warm as well. Dipping her toes, she was happy to discover that it was and jumped in. The pool felt heavenly, soothing away the remaining vestiges of her anxiety as she swam slow, lazy laps then rolled over onto her back and floated.
Sweeping her hands in circles to keep herself afloat, Syssi closed her eyes in bliss. It was like vacationing in some luxury resort, and to make the experience complete, Okidu even served her a piña colada smoothie, poolside.
Perfect.
Well, almost. Kian wasn’t there, and she missed him.
A warm feeling
suffused her. She really liked the big, arrogant oaf. He’d blundered badly, behaving like an ass, but any guy that was man enough to apologize and take responsibility for his mishaps, as well and as sincerely as Kian had done, was okay in her book. And anyway, the way the man got her heart pumping, she wasn’t sure she wouldn’t have forgiven him even if he had not.
Yep, I’m definitely turning into a horny, brainless floozy. She chided herself as she finished the last of the smoothie with a loud slurp.
Leaving the empty goblet by her towel, she glided into the center of the pool, turned on her back again, and paddled leisurely with her eyes closed.
“Hi, gorgeous!” Amanda startled her.
Splattering and splashing to right herself, Syssi soaked Amanda, who was squatting by the side of the pool and smiling like a Cheshire cat. Served Amanda right for sneaking in on her like that. “Hi, yourself, I completely forgot you’re next door.” Syssi wiped her eyes. “Wait a minute, you told me you have a condo in Santa Monica. When did you move here?” she asked, twisting her hair to wring it out.
Amanda brushed water droplets off her jean-clad legs and got up. “Oh no, this is just temporary. I definitely did not move in here, although Kian keeps nagging me to. I love him, but living right under his nose would be a really bad idea. Anyhow, he keeps it ready for me in case I change my mind, and with those crazy fanatics on the loose, I decided to humor him.” She winked.
“Kian told me what happened at the lab. I would’ve called you, but he threw away my cell phone, and I didn’t remember your number. How are you holding up?” She could’ve asked Kian, but it hadn’t even crossed her mind. She’d forgotten all about Amanda. Apparently, with him around, her hormone level skyrocketed, affecting her brain’s ability to function properly.
“I’m fine. The whole thing will blow over in a few days, and by then the lab will be as good as new. I’ve already arranged for cleanup and for new equipment to be delivered. The only task remaining is repainting the walls and maintenance is on it.”
“Have you given any thought to how we’re going to continue the research until the lab is ready? I think you’re overly optimistic assuming all of this can be done so quickly. I’d give it at least two weeks, if not longer.” Syssi got out and wrapped herself in the large towel.
“We can do some of the work from here, going over the data we already have, maybe even start a new paper. Don’t worry, I’ll make sure you earn your pay. It won’t be all swimming and lazing around... Just most of it.” Amanda snorted as she plopped down on one of the lounges.
“What about Hannah and David, are you planning on bringing them here as well?” Wrapping the towel tighter against the cool breeze, Syssi sat down next to Amanda.
“Heavens, no! I called Professor Goodbow and explained the situation. He promised he’d find them something to do until this mess is cleared. And anyway, Kian doesn’t allow strangers up here. Top floors are for family only.”
“I’m not family...”
“Yeah, but you’re special. Besides being the lunatics’ top target, I think my stubborn brother finally capitulated and went after you. Am I right? I hope I’m right. Tell me I’m right!”
Syssi’s cheeks heated. What the hell had Amanda done? Had she been talking with Kian about her and he had not been interested? That would explain a lot. Like his reluctance to engage with her.
Damn.
“What do you mean—finally capitulated?”
“Yeah, I know. It’s just that I wanted to get the two of you together for some time, but Kian being Kian refused all of my matchmaking efforts. So I didn’t tell you anything because what was the point? Right? But now that the fool finally met you, he likes you, as I told him he would. I’m going to have such a blast saying I-told-you-so. You guys are perfect together.” Amanda smirked, all smug satisfaction over the success of her yenta schemes, or perhaps over the prospect of endlessly needling Kian.
Amanda pushed up from the lounger and stretched her long body, the bottom of her T-shirt still damp and clinging to her skin. “I’m going back to my place across the hall. If you need anything, you know where to find me.” She bent down and gave Syssi a warm hug. “I’m really glad you’re here, Syssi. Kian needs someone to take care of him. And being the loving sister that I am, I found him the perfect someone.” Amanda kissed Syssi’s cheek.
Surprised and touched, Syssi hugged and kissed her back. Knowing Amanda liked her was one thing, but this was above and beyond. “Thank you. It really means a lot, you thinking so highly of me. But Kian and I have just met, and I don’t know if anything will come out of it. He is... well you know... he is really handsome... obstinate... controlling... endearing...” Syssi laughed as Amanda rolled her eyes and made the go-on gesture with her hand. “And he seems to like me, but we don’t really know each other, so don’t plan the wedding just yet. Okay?” she said, meaning it as a joke.
“I’ve got a good feeling about this, girl, and I hate being disappointed.” Amanda poked a warning finger at Syssi’s chest before turning to go inside.
Syssi shook her head. Bossy family.
Lying down on the lounger Amanda had vacated, she turned on her stomach and cradled her face in her arms. Tired from the day’s excitement, the sun pleasantly warm on her back, she grew drowsy and closed her eyes.
“Mistress,” Okidu said. “I brought you supper in case you were peckish.”
Slowly, Syssi opened her eyes. There was a thick robe draped over her back, which explained why she felt so warm and toasty even though it was getting late.
It was so nice of the butler to cover her. With the two of them alone in the place, it couldn’t have been anyone other than Okidu. “Thank you for the robe. It was very kind of you.”
She slipped her arms into the overlong sleeves and looped the belt twice around her waist, then brought the lapels closer to her cheeks. Kian’s scent was all over the thing. Combined with the warmth of the thick terry fabric, it cocooned her in what felt like home—safe, hers. Syssi closed her eyes. She missed him, and his absence felt as if there was a hole in her heart.
Which was nuts.
“You are welcome, mistress. It was getting chilly, and I did not want to wake you. You looked so peaceful. But it is late, and the master would have not been happy if I failed to provide you with nourishment. Would you like to dine outside? Or should I take the tray inside?”
By now, it was indeed a little cold out on the terrace, but recalling yesterday’s sunset, she wanted to watch it again. “Here would be great, thank you.”
Syssi ate her dinner at the small bistro table, watching the clouds turn all shades of orange, red, and purple until they faded into darkness by the time she was done.
She couldn’t help feel a bit disappointed that Kian had not returned in time to join her for dinner, and as she carried the tray to the kitchen, she wondered what was keeping him. He had been gone for hours. But then, he obviously couldn’t just drop everything to be with her. Hopefully, he wasn’t staying away because he didn’t want her company.
A disturbing thought. But she couldn’t allow herself to think like that.
Amanda had told her about Kian’s insane workload and long hours, and so had he. Evidently they had not been exaggerating.
The little Syssi knew about Kian, she had learned from Amanda’s complaints about how difficult it was to get him to come see her teach because he was always working; busy running the family business. He’d mentioned real estate, and a military grade drone factory that he was in the process of buying. Two completely unrelated businesses. Supposedly, Kian was running an international conglomerate, which meant that there were many more.
She should Google it. Maybe she could find out more about their financial empire. One thing was clear, though, big money was involved, on a scale that was hard for her to grasp even though she’d minored in business. Later, she could ask Kian about it. It was a safe topic, far removed from carnal thoughts.
But right now, a Jacuzzi
tub with her name on it was waiting.
Dalhu paced the length of the mansion’s opulent home office, contemplating his newfound knowledge. The professor’s little red notebook had been an eye-opener on so many levels.
With a light knock, the old cook pushed the door open. “Your tea, sir,” she said and shuffled in, holding a tray in her trembling hands. On her first day, Dalhu had thought the tremor was caused by fear. After all, cooking for twelve large warriors wasn’t something the woman was used to. But after she’d served them three meals that day, with her old gnarled hands trembling no more and no less, he’d realized it was just age.
Dalhu took the tray from her, afraid she would spill the hot tea on her large bosom. The last thing he needed was a trip to the hospital. The woman was in her seventies—there was no way any of his men could produce venom to heal her with a bite. “Thank you, Miriam.”
“Would you like something to eat, sir?” she asked. “I can make a special treat just for you.” At least once a day, she would offer to pamper him with something special, and each time he would refuse. For someone her age, she already worked too hard.
“No, thank you. That will be all, Miriam.” She looked disappointed, but he wasn’t particular about his food and was fine eating whatever she made for the men.
When she left, he closed the door behind her and resumed his pacing.
It had taken him a while to decipher the professor’s illegible handwriting and cryptic references, but eventually an interesting picture had emerged.
First and foremost, he had discovered that the enemy still adhered to the old taboos against procreating between members of the same matrilineal descent. Second, and not less important, that they had no Dormants of other lines.
He’d always assumed that they were a cowardly bunch; the kind who preferred running and hiding to honorably facing their enemies in battle. But as the real reason for their tactics became glaringly obvious—that there just weren’t enough of them to offer a fight—he was grudgingly compelled to grant them respect.
