“Ian is closer to the truth.” They exchanged a glance at my words and I took a deep breath to explain. “My parents sent me here to spend the summer with my godfather. A man I haven’t seen since I was a baby.”
“I’m not going to like where this tale is going, am I?” I shook my head in response to Ian’s question.
“I told them it was a terrible idea, but they ignored me. They were given an opportunity to do a yearlong missionary trip in Africa. One they jumped at. They rented our house to a family for the year, and decided to send me here. I start college in the fall and I’ll be living on campus then. It was just the summer that was the issue.” I paused, a stab of bitterness toward my parents surprising me. I’d always felt like they had my best interests at heart, but they had completely ignored my concerns. Concerns that had been proven valid very quickly.
“Please continue. I must know the entire story before I go off halfcocked. Michael insists I learn to curb my impulsive nature.” A reluctant smile formed at his words, driving back the momentary bitterness.
“Well, they insisted the best option was for me to stay with my godfather, Dale Whitmore, an old childhood friend of my fathers. Which is how I found myself on a plane to New Orleans while my parents took a flight to Africa. I hoped he would be okay.”
“But?”
“He wasn’t. He picked me up at the airport, and I felt uncomfortable, but what option did I have but to go with him? He began to make comments as he drove. Talking about how I could pay for my room and board.” I paused and met their eyes. “My father sent him money for my stay, I promise. We had argued about that as well, because I didn’t want to be at the mercy of a stranger with no money of my own. I told him I knew my father had sent him a check, but he got this look on his face, a sneer really and told me that was between him and my father. I owed him more. He told me what he expected and I refused.”
“What did he say he expected?” Ian’s voice was silky smooth, but it didn’t negate the violent promise I heard.
“I don’t want to repeat it.” I peeked at him, afraid the anger I’d heard in his voice would be directed at me for my refusal, but he only gave me a soft smile as he stroked my cheek with his finger.
“It’s fine, love. Continue.”
Michael handed Ian the glass he’d been drinking from and Ian tossed the remainder of it back.
“He didn’t take my answer well, shouting he’d have to teach me some respect over the summer. I told him there was no way I’d stay with him, and he grabbed my arms. He pulled me down, trying to shove my head in his lap, telling me I’d do what I was told if I knew what was good for me. Threatened the only other place for me was the street, and what he asked for wouldn’t get me very far on the street. I fought back, told him I would never do it. He pulled open the car door and shoved me out. Told me to call him when I was ready to obey. He laughed saying I’d miss the comfort of his bed.”
My hands shook as I finished, the memory of his actions repulsive even as the recounting reminded me how I’d wound up here. Ian covered my hands with his and stilled the shaking.
“You’re quite all right now, Jane love. Make no mistake, you won’t be staying on the street or doing anything he said.” He gathered the long weight of my hair in one of his hands, twisting it and laying it across my shoulder. “You are a beautiful warrior, one who deserves respect and protection, not the violence and indignity you’ve been exposed to.”
My eyes met his, gratitude coursing through me at his words. I’d been afraid they would look at me with disgust after I told my tale, but that wasn’t the case at all. Admiration glinted in his eyes along with a glimmer of something else I couldn’t put a name to, but it made warmth curl through me. Michael gazed between us speculatively, and it heightened my curiosity about them.
“I guess the question of the moment is what to do with you.” Michael was relaxed now, the earlier tension gone as my story ended.
“She’ll stay here of course.”
I opened my mouth to protest and Ian held a finger up to my face.
“Don’t even think of arguing, love. There is absolutely no chance of my allowing you to walk out that door without knowing you are safe, protected and cared for. Obviously, your parents have failed spectacularly, and so I will have to intercede.”
“Ian.” Michael’s voice held a warning. “Her parents aren’t the same as ours. They’ve made a rather large error in judgement, but that doesn’t mean we have the right to besmirch their character.”
“Besmirch? Shall we list the ways they’ve failed Jane?” He held up a finger and marked off each point. “They abandoned her for Africa, took her home from her, sent her to stay with someone they haven’t seen in years and didn’t bother to check out, that alone should account for several errors in judgement as you put it. And lastly, we have no way to communicate with to tell them of how horribly they’ve failed Jane.” His voice rose on the last point, his anger palpable, and it was my turn to grab his hand. My fingers curled around his index finger, tugging it down, and he visibly swallowed his anger as he turned to me. “Perhaps I was a little overzealous. I’m sure you have fine parents, but I cannot bear to imagine what would have happened to you if we hadn’t been there. As it was you were attacked outside of a restaurant after having been attacked upon your arrival.”
“But we were there, and she is safe with us. And shall remain safe with us until we can determine another avenue. Is there any way to get in touch with your parents?” Michael’s calm reasoning was in direct contrast to Ian’s passion.
“Oh yes, let’s do call the parents who aren’t here for her.” Ian stood up and strode to the window, tension visible in his ramrod straight back as he gazed out at the rain lashing against the windows. Something about the way he said it made me think it wasn’t just my parents he was upset with.
“Our plan was to have a weekly video chat. Every Sunday at five.”
“Are you kidding me?” Ian spun back around, staring at me in disbelief.
“That’s it? I mean today is Monday, were you not to speak with them until Sunday?” Michael’s voice also held a note of disbelief, and even though I had questioned it myself, I felt the need to defend my parents.
“It’s expensive, and the flight is long, and they were going to have to travel to remote areas. They didn’t think they would need to talk to me before then.” My argument sounded weak even to me, because it was very obvious I did need to speak with them. Everything had gone wrong, and I was only safe because of the kindness of these two.
“Well that does it. She’s ours now.” Ian shrugged as if it was a done deal and walked back toward us. I noticed Michael hide a small smile at Ian’s words, and again my curiosity was sparked. Ian’s possessive concern for me seemed to please Michael, but I couldn’t understand why. “Her parent’s blatant disregard for her wellbeing proves she needs better caretakers, and we shall do quite well.”
“Perhaps we should ask Jane’s opinion on the matter?” Michael asked delicately.
“You want to stay.” He gazed at me dispassionately, not for a second considering I would have a difference of opinion. “We will need to get you some clothes though. Not that you don’t look fetching in that robe, but eventually it will need to be washed.”
“Ian!” I interrupted him, my tone exasperated. “You’ve been nothing but kind, but I can’t stay here. It wouldn’t be appropriate. I have no money, and as you just pointed out, no clothes. My parent’s idiocy should not make you responsible for my wellbeing.” I stood up, my fingers clenching the lapels of the robe together. Ian was a force to be reckoned with and I felt at a disadvantage sitting. I ignored the little voice that begged to take him up on his offer, to be under his protection and his care. He’d proven more attentive to my needs than my parents had managed and the feeling was intoxicating.
“At least we agree on your parents, but again, I will not allow you to leave without ensuring your safety.” His voice was low and dangerous, s
ending a thrill through me. I had not anticipated his determination in caring for me. He was more a gentleman than I had given him credit for.
“At ease, Ian.” Michael gestured for us to sit down. “Jane, I’m afraid I’ll have to agree with my brother on this point. We cannot, in good conscious, allow you to leave without knowing you have somewhere to go.”
“I was going to go to the police.” I interjected, waving my hand. “But then I was attacked by the guy outside the restaurant and you two showed up. I was in shock. I should have gone to the police then, but I just wanted to escape. But I can still go to them.”
“And do what? I’m not overly familiar with the local police, that’s more Ian’s forte, but I would not think they could provide you with clothing or housing.”
Michael’s quick assessment shot holes in my reasoning, and left me with little argument. He was right. I could go to the police and it was possible they could get my luggage, but I still had no money and nowhere to go. I fought back tears. It was bad enough I was in this situation, there was no need to drown them in my tears as well.
Ian scooted closer to me on the couch, wrapping an arm around me and pulling me close. I allowed it, the warm comfort of his shoulder allowing me to hide my tears.
“It’s settled them. You’ll remain with us.” He attempted to keep the satisfaction out of his voice, but I heard it anyway. I peered up at him and he smiled at me, his dimple peeking out.
“I’m not going to have sex with you.” I told him forcefully.
“Let’s not be hasty, love.” He ran a finger down my cheek, and the heat of it curled through me. I shook my head, knowing he was temptation and my resistance weak.
“I mean it.” I sat up, facing him. “I won’t be in a position that I need to trade sexual favors for my room and board.” I didn’t notice the robe had gaped open when I sat up until Ian reached over and tucked it closed. His face was more serious than I’d seen yet, and he tipped my chin up to look me in the eye.
“I will never ask that of you, nor expect it. Neither of us.” Michael shook his head slightly to indicate he wouldn’t either, and Ian drew my gaze back to him. “Love, you’re safe with us. I want nothing more than to see you taken care of. I was joking a moment ago, and I apologize since it was obviously in poor taste and timing. There are no expectations if you choose to stay with us.”
I nodded, but only because I couldn’t see another option and Ian’s face creased with worry.
“I believe I have a solution.” We both glanced at Michael when he spoke and he gave us a confident smile. “Jane, you don’t wish to be beholden on us, and that’s quite understandable. We, however don’t wish to see you leave, not without knowing you are cared for. The way I see it the situation can be mutually beneficial. You remain with us, and work for me. You’ll receive funds for your work and room and board. We will be assured of your safety.”
“But what would I be doing?” His solution sounded perfect, because I already didn’t want to leave their presence. Somewhere in the last few hours they’d come to mean something to me. Maybe it was the way they swooped in to take care of me, or their willingness to trade favors with reporters or even just their protective natures, but they had wormed their way in to my heart.
“Babysitting Ian.”
I blinked at his declaration and noticed Ian shoot an accusing glare at Michael, who returned it with a warning glare of his own. Ian narrowed his eyes at him, but with a tilt of his head settled back and gave me a wink.
“It’s a full-time job, love. I’ll warn you now.”
“He’s not joking,” Michael added drily. “Ian is traveling with me because our parents have washed their hands of him. There isn’t a university in Europe that would have him, and I’m afraid I don’t have the time or inclination to keep tabs on him while negotiating business deals. Your presence is really quite fortuitous.”
My gaze switched between them suspiciously. Ian portrayed the picture of innocence and Michael maintained a look of wearied martyrdom. Ian had given me the impression of a roguish playboy but this sounded like more than that.
He’d shown me nothing but kindness. Perhaps a hint of flirtation, but I don’t think he could speak without sounding flirtatious. Michael’s words indicated he was much more than a carefree younger brother though, and was instead a problem child.
“And you expect me to be able to keep tabs on him?” My question was incredulous. I was the opposite of Ian from Michael’s description, and already knew Ian was more well versed in the art of manipulation than I ever could be.
“Yes, in fact I couldn’t think of anyone better for the job.” Michael had a pleased expression on his face, and I couldn’t help but notice that even though he was sitting on the table in front of us, he maintained a perfect posture.
“Agreed. We’ll have such fun.” Ian’s cheerful grin had my eyes narrowing.
“I’m not so sure. What constitutes babysitting? What if he gets into trouble and I can’t stop him? He is a grown man after all.” I directed my questions at both of them, and watched Ian raise an eyebrow toward Michael.
“Mostly I ask that you accompany Ian on his daily activities, perhaps persuade him to try different tourist destinations. I assure you Ian will not allow any harm to come to you nor take you anywhere inappropriate.” He flicked a warning glance at Ian. “Isn’t that correct, brother?”
“Of course. You are safe with me, love. We’ll consider the summer your education in the worldlier ways.”
I made an indiscriminate noise in the back of my throat as I felt my eyes widen at his words. I couldn’t begin to imagine what Ian considered worldly, but I had the feeling it was more than I could handle.
“You know, let us consider a trial run, shall we? You won’t have an opportunity to speak with your parents until Sunday, correct?” My nod had Michael continuing. “Then we have the week to see how this works out. If you don’t think it’ll work or Ian’s behavior is such that you don’t wish to remain, then I’ll happily see you taken care of in whatever way you and your parents decide.”
Ian made to interrupt but a quelling glance from Michael stopped him. Whatever Ian was accused of, he listened to his brother. They seemed devoted to one another and I wondered again what difference my presence made.
Their eagerness for me to stay was apparent, and it wasn’t as if I had any other options lying around so I gave a reluctant nod. I didn’t want to admit that my reluctance had more to do with my intense desire to stay and less to do with any fear of their actions. I could already tell they would turn my life upside down.
Chapter Three
“If this is going to work then we need rules.”
I held up my hand and used my fingers to mark the rules off as I said them.
“1. No swearing.”
“2. No drinking.”
“3. No sexual innuendoes.”
“And last, no female companions wandering around in their underwear!” I nodded sharply and released the breath I’d been holding.
“Except for you.” Ian mentioned with a wicked grin.
“What do you mean?” My forehead furrowed in puzzlement. “I don’t drink or swear, and I won’t be making innuendoes.”
He glanced down at my robe, and rubbed his hand across his chin.
“I do believe you are walking around in your birthday suit under that robe. I, of course, have no problem with your attire and if you wish to break that rule, I’m all in favor.”
“Ian.” Michael chided as I flushed at the truth of his statement.
“Special circumstances! I will wear clothes.” I trailed off as I said, “When I have some.”
“Then we shall make that the first order of business.” Michael promised. “Now, to the drinking rule. Perhaps you mean no drunkenness? I assure you we will behave with the utmost decorum.”
“Speak for yourself, brother.”
“Ian, that’s not helpful.” Michael clipped his words in irritation, his accent shar
per.
“No, I meant no drinking.” My reply drew their attention back to me. “Alcohol changes the way a man acts, it’s terrible for your health, and being around a man who is impaired is dangerous.” The memory of the last man who attacked me and the stench of alcohol on him flashed back to me. I had no idea if was the alcohol that had given him the courage to attack or if he would have done it either way. I didn’t want it to happen with Ian or Michael though, and since Michael insisted Ian behaved badly on occasion, maybe alcohol was to blame. My father often preached the evils of alcohol in his sermons.
Michael rolled the now empty glass between his hands and sighed. I was sure it had contained alcohol, and the ease with which Ian had finished it off during the telling of my story made me wary.
“You are correct, and we will refrain from drinking.” Michael’s head jerked up at Ian’s words, shock written clearly upon it. Ian’s ease at making the concession made me suspicious. “However, Michael is a businessman who on occasion goes to events in which alcohol is served, and I believe a single drink would not be undue?”
He smiled, already knowing I wouldn’t refuse such a reasonable request. I didn’t feel the need to admit I’d gotten lost in the cadence of his words and would have agreed to anything he asked. I may have been sheltered by my parents, but I wasn’t completely naïve. Ian was dangerous.
“I must say, Ian. I do believe we’ve been wasting your talents. I should have you at the table negotiating.”
“Sounds bloody dull, brother. I have much more interesting ways to pass the time.” I felt the weight of his stare as he smiled.
“No cursing, remember?”
“What? I didn’t curse.” He was wide eyed innocence as he asked, “What word did you consider a curse word?”
“Bloody.” My voice was a whisper as I uttered the word, mortified I had to say it, but unwilling to back down from the challenge in his eyes.
Average Jane Page 4
