The Return of the Rebel

by Jennifer Faye

  Cleo worried her bottom lip. And in that hospital gown, she looked like a child again. All he wanted to do was take care of her any way possible...even if it meant getting closer to her instead of beating a trail into the sunset. That would have to wait for another day.

  Cleo’s worried gaze turned to him. “Are you sure about this?”

  “I wouldn’t have said it otherwise.”

  The doctor’s gaze swung between the two of them, deciding if he could trust them. “Now that it’s settled, I’ll go check on things. If you wait in the lobby, we’ll call you when she’s ready to go.”

  Jax didn’t mind a few minutes to himself to pull his scattered thoughts together. He started for the doorway when Cleo grabbed his hand.

  “I need to talk to you. I just remembered something.”

  “Don’t worry. We’ll have plenty of time for that later.”

  “But this is important.” Her distressed tone caught his attention.

  He wondered if this had something to do with the police poking around. “I’m listening.”

  “There’s a man after you.”

  “What?”

  As though recalling her fingers were still gripping his hand, she let go and made a point of straightening her white sheet. “When I went back to the bungalow a man approached me. He wanted to know how to find you.”

  “And he attacked you?”

  “Not really. When I tried to get away from him, he followed me. He grabbed my arm and put a hand over my mouth. He said he had a message for you.”

  Alarm arrowed through Jax’s chest. “What is it?”

  Cleo’s gaze lowered. “I don’t know. I bit his finger before he could relay the message. He let go of me and the rest is kind of a blur.”

  His gut was telling him trouble had followed him from New York. And Cleo had ended up paying the price. Guilt beat at his chest.

  “Don’t worry. He won’t bother you anymore.”

  “How do you know? Who is this man? What does he want?”

  Jax held up his hand, halting the flow of questions. “I don’t know him, but I promise you won’t have to deal with him again. Remember from here on out I’m in charge of your safety. Doctor’s orders.”

  She started to sit up. “Jax, I need to know what’s going on.”

  “Calm down.” He placed a hand on her shoulder, pressing her back against the pillow. “When I learn something I’ll tell you. Now I have a couple of phone calls to make.”

  Jax hated the thought that he’d dragged Cleo into his problems. He had no proof that this mystery man was tied into the money-laundering case, but he’d be willing to bet his fortune that he was right. His priority now had to be keeping Cleo safe. And since that hired thug knew her name, her face and where she worked, it wouldn’t take long for him to track her down at home, either.

  Just then the doctor returned. “We’ll have you fixed up in no time.”

  That was Jax’s cue to leave. He turned back to Cleo. “Don’t worry. I’ll take care of everything.”

  As he strode away, she called out, “What are you going to do?”

  He didn’t pause to answer because, at that moment, he didn’t have a clue. It was obvious that he needed to get Cleo and himself out of Las Vegas. But how far could he take her with her injuries? If she needed further medical attention, he didn’t want to be stuck out in the middle of nowhere. There had to be a compromise. A place where the thug hired to scare him into silence wouldn’t think to look for either of them.

  * * *

  Free at last.

  Cleo settled back against the leather seat of a large SUV. Even though her hospital stay had only lasted a matter of hours, for her it felt like days. And now Jax was playing the dutiful hero and riding to her rescue. She had no idea where he got this sweet ride, but she appreciated its spaciousness more than she could say.

  “Thank you. But you really didn’t have to go to such lengths. I could have called a taxi to take me back to my place.”

  “I don’t think so. Remember I’m the one who promised the doctor I’d take care of you.”

  At the next traffic light, he turned left instead of right.

  “You went the wrong way. Wait. How do you know where I live?”

  “I don’t.”

  “It’s the other direction. I live at 331 Villa Drive, apartment C3. You can just turn left up here and loop around.” When he kept going straight, she sat up a little straighter. “Where exactly are you taking me?”

  “Do you always ask so many questions?”

  She glared at him. “I demand to be taken back to my apartment.”

  “Not today. We’re going someplace where you can rest and not worry about any unwanted guests.”

  “But I can’t.” She didn’t like the sound of this. “I have a job...er, at least I hope I still have a job.”

  “Of course you do. You were injured on Glamour grounds while performing your duties. Therefore you’re entitled to workers’ compensation. Not even Mr. Burns would be foolish enough to let you go and face a lawsuit.”

  The medication they’d given her at the hospital was making her head woozy. “The doctor said it wouldn’t be long until I could get around.”

  “And until then you need to rest as much as possible. Now just relax. I’ve got everything under control.”

  “How am I supposed to do that when you won’t even tell me where we’re going?”

  “We aren’t going far. Just north of the city. And I promise you’ll like the accommodations.”

  He was trying to sound upbeat, but she knew he was worried. “You think that guy is going to come back, don’t you?”

  “He won’t bother you where we’re going.”

  She wanted to believe him, but she didn’t even know what he was mixed up in. The adrenaline that had been driving her drained away, leaving her feeling wiped out. She was with Jax. Nothing would happen now because the one thing she did know was that she still trusted him. She instinctively knew that he’d protect her.

  She leaned her head back, fighting to keep her eyes open. The image of her kitty came to mind. She’d called her neighbor Robyn McCreedy to check in on him. Still, it wasn’t the same as being there, especially since he’d just been neutered.

  “I can’t stay here long. I have to get home.”

  “Don’t worry. I’ll get you home soon.” Jax glanced over at her. “You can sleep. I’ll let you know when we’re there.”

  She really shouldn’t trust him so easily, but her eyelids felt so very heavy. If she could just close her eyes for a minute, she’d be all right...

  “Cleo, wake up. We’re here.”

  Her eyes snapped open, not recognizing her surroundings. The bandage around her forehead was getting itchy so she rubbed at it, wanting to take it off. But the doctor had warned her to leave it on until the stitches on the back of her head had a chance to heal.

  She gazed up at a large gate that was automatically opening for them. “Where are we?”

  “Someplace safe.”

  Jax maneuvered the vehicle between the gates and down a road lined with jaw-dropping mansions. It was dark out, making it difficult to see the details of each impressive estate until they pulled into the driveway of a humongous home. She’d only ever seen something this extraordinary in glossy magazines.

  Soft rays from the full moon bathed the white stucco home, giving it a magical glow. And it was two...no, wait, make that three stories high. With the lights on inside, it looked like a gem against the velvety night. Its sweeping length and elegance left her in awe.

  “I hope you won’t mind staying here.”

  She blinked, making sure that it was real. “Mind? It’s amazing.” Then she turned to him. “Is it yours?”

  He shook his head
. “I don’t have any use for a place this big. It belongs to a friend of mine.”

  “That must be some friend. Is he famous?”

  Jax chuckled. “You might say that. Remember the movie from last summer, Shooting Stars?”

  “You mean the Western romance? I think everyone went to see it, including me. It was a great mix of action and passion.”

  “My friend will be glad to hear you’re such a fan.”

  “He filmed it?”

  “No, George starred in it.”

  Cleo’s mouth gaped as she sat there trying to process this information. “No way. Are you totally serious? He’s drop-dead gorgeous.”

  Jax smiled and shook his head. “I do believe you’re starstruck.”

  “Did you see the movie?” She fanned herself. “He’s so hot. In the film he was the marshal and he was on the hunt for train robbers. He ended up rescuing the heroine from a train accident the robbers had caused. It was so romantic how he cared for her and kept her safe.”

  Jax cleared his throat. “I’ll be sure to tell George when I talk to him. Now, is there any chance you want to go inside?”

  “And see the rest of his house? You bet.” She reached for the door.

  “Wait! I’ll help you. We don’t need any more accidents tonight.” He alighted from the vehicle and circled around to open her door.

  “But how did you get George to lend you his house?”

  Jax gave a nonchalant shrug. “It’s not his primary residence. He spends most of his time in Hollywood.”

  “I still can’t believe he’s letting us stay here.”

  “Let’s just say that he owed me a favor and I called it in. George is a really good guy. He was happy to do it.”

  “Did you tell your friend that we are on the run from some ape?”

  “Ape, huh?” Jax smiled. “I’m glad to see your sense of humor hasn’t been injured.”

  She thought back to her run-in with that man and a shiver ran down her spine. “I just refuse to give him power over me by calling him a big, mean, scary dude...even if he was one.”

  Refusing to dwell on what happened, she turned her attention to the long sweeping steps that led to the front door. And then she glanced down at her leg. This was going to be a challenge, especially when she wasn’t used to getting around on one good leg.

  But before she could ask Jax for the crutches, he scooped her into his arms. Her body landed against his solid chest. He’d definitely filled out in the years they’d been apart.

  “What are you doing?”

  “Taking you inside.”

  Her hand automatically slipped around his neck. “But I can manage—”

  “Do you have to argue about everything?”

  She pressed her lips shut. If he wanted to carry her up all of those steps, why should she complain? She wasn’t feeling exactly steady on her feet. Tomorrow would be plenty early enough for her to prove her independence, even if she had to be aided by those confounded crutches.

  Her head rested on his shoulder as he moved up the steps. Beneath the moonlight with the warm breeze swirling around them, it would be so easy to let her guard down. If she closed her eyes and inhaled his masculine scent, she could let herself get swept up in this very romantic scenario. Not that she had any intention of making a fool of herself again. If there was any more kissing, it would be Jax who made the first move.

  One night here and then she’d return to her apartment to finish recuperating. Being situated in the middle unit of a young people’s complex, tenants were coming and going at all hours of the day and night. She wouldn’t have to worry about being alone. They’d be around if she called out for help. Yes, that would work. One night with Jax and then they’d go their separate ways.

  Her thoughts turned back to Robyn, who was more than a neighbor—more like the sister Cleo never had. It was nice to have someone in her life now who cared. She’d told Robyn that she’d be home sometime that night. She really should let Robyn know that her plans had changed. She didn’t want her to needlessly worry. Cleo reached for her phone but realized she didn’t have it.

  “Jax, I left my phone back at the bungalow.”

  “It’s for the best.”

  “What? But I need my phone. How am I supposed to contact people and let them know that I’m okay?”

  “They’ll just have to wait. Phones have GPS tracking units in them. It’s possible that thug could track us down that way. Don’t worry. I got a disposable phone for emergencies.”

  The hairs on the back of her neck lifted. “Jax, how much trouble are you in?”

  CHAPTER SEVEN

  ALONE AT LAST.

  Jax gently lowered Cleo down onto a long white couch in the expansive living room. He regretted having to let her go. There was something so right about having her slight figure curled up next to him. It’d taken every bit of willpower to concentrate on climbing the stairs instead of turning his head and kissing her.

  His gaze dipped down to her lips while remembering how sweet they’d tasted. This wasn’t right. He should be worried about the man who’d run into Cleo at the hotel, not contemplating repeating their kiss because the one they’d shared earlier had been far too brief. And even worse, it had left him anxious for more of her touch.

  He’d never had a woman distract him to this extent. What was so unique about Cleo? Could it be the fact she’d always been forbidden fruit? After all, she was one of Hope Springs’s highly respected Sinclair clan whereas his own family had been barely tolerated.

  The attraction appeared to be all one-sided as Cleo sat up and looked around the expansive room. “Did you see those posters in the hallway? This really is an honest-to-goodness movie star’s house.”

  “Are you saying you doubted me?”

  Her gaze darted around the room. “Look at the mantel. There’s an award. Do you think he’d mind if I touched it?”

  “I don’t see why he would have to know.” When she went to stand, Jax placed his hand on her shoulder. “I’ll get it for you.”

  “Can you believe we’re here? And look over there.” She pointed to the wall to the left. “There’s pictures of him with actresses and politicians. Look at that one of him with the president.”

  Jax chuckled at Cleo’s awestruck face. He retrieved the gold figurine, surprised to find it was rather heavy, and handed it to her.

  “I just can’t believe you’re friends with him. Can you get me his autograph?”

  “I’m sure that can be arranged. Now sit there and don’t move. I’ll be back.”

  “Wait.” She looked up. “You promised we’d talk.”

  “And we will right after I get our stuff. Just enjoy checking out that award.”

  The events of the day were catching up to him, and he couldn’t wait until he got Cleo settled in bed. He inwardly groaned at the thought of her stretched out on some silky sheets. He gave himself a mental shake. That wouldn’t and couldn’t happen. Being a total gentleman tonight was going to be a feat all of its own.

  Jax made a few trips to the car and deposited the final items next to the couch.

  Cleo eyed up the stash. “What is all of that?”

  “Things you’ll need while we’re here.”

  “But both of those bags look full. What did you buy?”

  He handed over a shopping bag and she peered inside. Her lips formed an O and he realized too late that he’d given her the pink bag. Still, the color filling her cheeks matched the bag and made him smile.

  “Don’t worry. I didn’t pick out the lingerie. Marylou helped me out.”

  Cleo’s thin brows rose. “Marylou? You mean the woman from the restaurant? The one you rescued from that rude guy?”

  He nodded. “She said that if I ever needed anything to ask. I coul
dn’t risk going back into the Glamour and I didn’t want to risk going to your place, so she discreetly picked up some of my things from the bungalow and bought you some essentials at the guest shops.”

  Cleo grimaced and adjusted her leg. “You’re making this sound like we’re going to be here for more than just tonight.”

  He glanced at his watch, realizing it was time for her pain medication. “We are. But don’t worry. I have plenty of groceries.”

  She sat up straight. “I can’t run off with you. I have responsibilities. People who will be worried about me.”

  “Listen,” he replied as he got to his feet, “I’m not any happier about this than you are. But until the police track down this guy, we’re staying put. Now it’s time for your pain meds. I’ll be right back.”

  “Jax, you’re being ridiculous. I can get these things for myself.”

  He headed for the kitchen, ignoring her protest. Why did she have to be so stubborn? Couldn’t she relax and let him take care of her? Did everything have to be a struggle?

  He returned quickly, handing over the glass and the medication, which she took without so much as a comment. He sank down into the armchair across from her and folded his arms behind his head.

  “You have to admit staying here won’t be so bad.” He was trying to convince himself as much as her. He leaned his head back. One by one the muscles in his body relaxed. “Even the furniture is comfortable.”

  He closed his eyes. This was the most relaxed he’d been in a long time. Was it the house? Or was it the company—Cleo’s company—that had him thinking about the here and now instead of the uncertainty of his future?

  “I’m still waiting.”

  Her voice startled him as he started to doze off. He lifted his head to look at her. “Waiting for what?”

  “For you to explain why we’re here. Who’s the ape that’s hunting you?”

  Jax ran a hand over the evening stubble trailing down his jaw. “I honestly don’t know who the man is. But the police are on it now. With the aid of the surveillance cameras at the casino, they’ll be able to identify and locate him.”