“You’ll have to develop a thicker skin if you want to survive in this human world,” Gillian said. “When your book gets out there, a lot of people will want a piece of you, especially weak women, con artists, and emotional vampires. Don’t let them get to you.”
“Emotional vampires? That’s a new one for me. I don’t think I’ve met any yet.”
“Just be careful. Now, what are you going to wear for your date with Stewart?”
“It’s not a date. He just wants to talk about tomorrow’s meeting with the publisher.”
“When Stewart Tobin spends one-on-one time with a woman, it’s a date,” Gillian said. “Trust me on that.”
“I take it you’re speaking from experience.”
“Yes, I am.” Her eyes misted. “You probably would find out sooner or later. Stewart and I were an item for about eight months last year. I thought he was the one, but then he broke it off, gently, of course.”
“Do you still see each other?”
“Not really. When you told me about your book, I used that as an excuse to contact him again. We met, but in his office and very briefly.” She sighed. “And I wasn’t invited to today’s brunch.”
“I’m sorry. Is there anything that I can do or say?”
Gillian put up her hand. “Concentrate on your book and making some real money. That should be your focus right now.” She smiled. “Though I won’t be too surprised if he starts something with you.”
“I won’t let that happen.”
“It won’t be up to you.” Gillian walked toward the closet. “Now, let’s see what we are working with here.” She flipped through the few clothes that Barbara had brought and glanced at the sweaters on the settee. “It’s too bad we’re not the same size. I could lend you some—”
Barbara interrupted. “I’m wearing my black pants with the pale grey sweater set. I’ll add some silver jewellery and wear Kendra’s blazer and scarf. That’ll do.”
“A bit understated for my taste, but that look seems to work for you,” Gillian said. “I’ve put the coffee on. You can help yourself to fruit or whatever else you can find.”
“Coffee will be enough. I’ve had two large suppers in a row. I can’t afford to eat like this every day.”
Gillian nodded in approval. “You worked too hard to lose that weight. I’ll make a light supper for tonight.”
“Do you have plans for the afternoon?” Barbara asked.
“One of the ladies from my investment group is having a Christmas open house. I’ll make an appearance there and then come back home.” Gillian changed the subject abruptly. “We’re wasting time. You don’t want to keep Stewart waiting.” She went back to the kitchen.
Barbara followed and grabbed a quick cup of coffee. She showered and took extra care with her hair and makeup. When she put on her pants, she sighed in discouragement at the snugness of her waistband. After brunch, they would be walking in the park and through the Art Institute. That would help. It didn’t sound like Gillian had any plans for the evening. Maybe they could walk along the waterfront. She hadn’t been near water since she left England.
Barbara critically examined herself in the full-length mirror. She was glad Elaine had talked her into buying the pale grey sweater set. It made her green eyes pop and her skin appear more lustrous. She evaluated Kendra’s blazer and scarf. The two pieces completed the look and added a bit of edginess.
Barbara heard voices. He was early. She took a deep breath and headed toward the living area. Stewart had his back to her. He looked tall, even standing next to Gillian. Barbara figured he was about six foot four. Thank goodness she had worn her heeled boots.
He turned and flashed a set of even, white teeth. His dark brown, wavy hair did not contain a single strand of grey, and his beautifully tanned skin provided the perfect canvas for green eyes with dark eyebrows and long, black eyelashes. He had a charming cleft on his chin and a Roman nose. He wore jeans with boots and a brown sweater topped with a tan leather jacket. His collar was turned up.
He’s perfect in every way, thought Barbara. Stewart Tobin literally took her breath away and she found herself awestruck.
Gillian came to her rescue. “Barbara, this is Stewart Tobin. Stewart, Barbara Davies.” She stepped back and watched as they shook hands.
While Barbara could only manage a smile, Stewart winked as he shook her hand firmly. “I’m so glad to finally meet you. I hope you don’t mind that I came early. We have a great deal to discuss, and I want to take you to some of my favourite Chicago haunts as well.”
“Great. That sounds great.” Barbara caught a glimpse of Gillian stifling a laugh. So this is what the fuss was all about. Barbara’s throat was dry and her heart was pounding. She was having a strong, visceral reaction to this gorgeous man who would play a major role in her literary career. She took a deep breath and spoke again. “I’m so grateful for everything you’ve done, and I appreciate you giving up your Sunday for me.”
When their eyes met, he smiled widely. “We have the same eyes! Gillian, don’t you agree?” He turned to look at Gillian, who quietly concurred.
Barbara noticed that Gillian’s teeth were clenched. Gillian was unaccustomed to being on the sidelines. It was time to go. Barbara moved toward the door and Stewart followed. They said their goodbyes to Gillian.
The elevator ride down was a quiet one. They made their way outside where an emerald green Ferrari was parked in front of the main entrance. He opened the door for her and went around and got in on the driver’s side. Barbara held her breath, anticipating another fast, treacherous ride along the streets of Chicago. To her surprise, he maintained a normal speed, and she was able to relax and enjoy the sights on the way to the restaurant.
“Are you always this quiet?” Stewart asked.
Barbara looked out her window. “I’m still getting used to Chicago. Carden is much tamer.”
“Get used to big city life, Barbara. I have a feeling you’ll be spending a lot of time between airports and hotels.” He lowered his voice. “But not to worry. I’ll be there to help you every step of the way.”
Her heart started pounding again. She couldn’t believe her reaction to this man. When she first met Andrew, she had been besotted with him. Annabella had accused her of losing all her sensibilities. If Annabella could see her now, she would shake her head in disgust. Her grandmother disapproved of any mermaid falling head-over-heels in love with a human. That’s it, I’ve fallen for this Adonis who will probably cast me aside like all his other conquests. That last thought calmed her down. She had no intention of getting dumped again.
Barbara regained her composure and met his glance squarely. He had just parked the car in a garage near the John Hancock building. “How high are we eating this time?”
Stewart laughed. “Are you already tired of the Chicago skyline?”
“No, of course not. I’m just curious. I enjoyed dining at Cité on Friday. We were on the seventieth floor.”
“Well, I’m taking you even higher. We’re on the ninety-fifth floor today. I think you’ll enjoy The Signature Room. I come here most Sundays.”
But not alone, thought Barbara, never alone. She smiled and tried to ignore the hammering of her heart.
They took the elevator up and then Stewart led the way into a large, crowded restaurant teeming with people who all made a point of greeting him. While the men shook his hand, the women critically evaluated Barbara from head-to-toe and cast disappointed looks toward Stewart. Their waitress practically swooned over him and nearly dropped her tray of water glasses.
Barbara allowed herself to be guided along the impressive buffet. She watched as Stewart asked one of the chefs to prepare his favorite asparagus omelette. At the seafood table, she helped herself to the oysters, Alaska king crab, and caviar. A few times during the meal, Stewart brought her dishes of salads, fruits, and desserts he thought she would enjoy. He was the perfect host, the perfect date. Barbara sighed deeply. Gillian was right. Whenever Ste
wart spent time with a woman, it was definitely a date.
“You’ve sighed a few times. Is everything all right?” Stewart asked.
“Of course, you’re the perfect host. I think I’m a bit nervous about meeting Melanie tomorrow.”
“Leave Melanie to me. I’ll handle all the negotiations.” He leaned toward Barbara and gently touched her wrists. “That’s one of the reasons we’re meeting beforehand. I want to make sure we’re on the same page tomorrow morning. I don’t like unnecessary surprises and delays.” His expression darkened. This man was used to getting what he wanted without too much effort or struggle.
Barbara thought of her own struggles during the past few months. She knew she was made of sterner stuff and could handle anything and anyone. But she had to admit that Stewart Tobin had the power to easily derail any of her plans for the future. She would have to guard her emotions very carefully whenever she was around him.
Stewart continued speaking, “As I mentioned before, New Spirit Publishing only publishes five books a year. I happen to know that your book was the second one they approved this year. Melanie will probably try to pull a fast one and suggest that they take their time and launch the book early next year. I’m going to push for the late summer or fall of this year.”
Barbara’s eyes widened. “That’s less than a year away. Is it possible to—”
“Of course it’s possible. Everything is possible. That’s why you’ve got me as an agent. When she starts whining about delays and other commitments, don’t give in to her. Let me do the talking.”
“If you plan to do all the talking, then why did I have to come to Chicago? You could have met with Melanie and emailed me the details.” Her eyes flashed and she spoke a bit sharper than usual.
Stewart’s eyes twinkled. “There is a bit of spice there. Good. I was starting to think that you would be a pushover.” He started eating his cheesecake with gusto.
Barbara had a strong urge to reach over and shake him.
“You probably feel like shaking me or shoving my face into this creamy cheesecake. Even if you did, I wouldn’t lose it.” He stared at her openly, daring her to commit some social faux pas.
She shook her head. He was a handful and, if she wasn’t careful, she could easily lose control. She spoke calmly. “Not to worry. I won’t create a scene.”
“Too bad.” His tone became more businesslike. “Melanie will give you a copy of the contract. It’s a standard one. You have nothing to worry about, but you can hire someone else to look it over.”
Barbara decided to ask Janice for the name of an entertainment lawyer. She no longer trusted herself to make sound judgments in Chicago. This was Stewart Tobin’s town.
Chapter 24
Barbara enjoyed the rest of the afternoon. Although she was acutely aware of the handsome man at her side, she was still able to focus on the sights of Chicago. The Art Institute was a city unto itself of fine art and artifacts. Guarded by two bronze lions, the Institute contained rooms filled with paintings, sculptures, textiles, and photographs. Barbara could have spent entire days wandering through the endless marble and glass corridors.
Stewart suggested the Highlights tour. The guide provided an entertaining and educational introduction to the museum’s various collections. Barbara could easily see why it was one of the best fine art collections in the world. At the end of the tour, Barbara went back and spent more time looking at the works of the Impressionists. Stewart was more interested in the newly opened Modern Wing. Some of his clients were up-and-coming artists from the Southwest.
Afterward, they walked through Millennium Park. With unusually warm December temperatures in the low fifties, it was a perfect day for a lazy stroll. Stewart talked about the history of the park and the various sculptures and gardens. Barbara was impressed by his knowledge and enthusiasm.
While walking through the tree-lined promenade, Stewart stopped unexpectedly and turned toward Barbara. He kissed her lightly and stroked her right cheek. Barbara was taken aback by the gestures. She blushed and turned away from his gaze.
“You can’t ignore the chemistry, Barbara.” He cupped her chin and forced her to look at him. “So what are we going to do about it?”
“Nothing. You’re my agent. I don’t want to complicate matters by getting involved with you. And besides, I’m already dating someone in Carden.”
“Why isn’t he here with you? I wouldn’t let you go traipsing around in Chicago if you were my woman.”
“Graham and I aren’t attached at the hip. He has his own life and I have mine.”
“Doesn’t sound like much of a relationship there. And from what Gillian has told me, you’ve been in that small town only a few months. How serious can this relationship possibly be?”
Barbara wondered what else Gillian had said about her. “That’s my business and Graham’s. You and I have a professional relationship, that’s all.” She quickly amended, “Though I am grateful for all you’ve done.”
“I guess that means we won’t be spending the rest of the afternoon at Omni.” He looked at his watch. “I’ll have to call and cancel the suite.” He stood to the side and took out his cell phone.
The nerve of the man! He actually expected her to fall into bed with him after only a few hours together. She caught a few fragments of the conversation and realized that Stewart must know the person on the other end of the line. He must do this often. And she wouldn’t be surprised if the female staff at the hotel kept track of his comings and goings.
After a few minutes, he rejoined her and started talking about the outdoor events at the park during the warmer months. She couldn’t believe the man could just continue like nothing had happened. She was a bundle of nerves and questions and she wondered how she would ever get through another day in such close proximity to Stewart Tobin.
“It’s getting late. Gillian is making dinner, and I think she has some plans for later.” Or more precisely, she had plans for later, which did not involve Stewart Tobin.
Stewart frowned. “I didn’t realize that Gillian was expecting you so soon. But if you two have made plans, I won’t stand in your way.” He smiled mischievously. “Remember, I’ve got you all day tomorrow.”
They were quiet on the drive to Gillian’s condo. Barbara could sense him glancing at her, but she kept her eyes glued straight ahead. As soon as he stopped the car, Barbara made a quick exit. She didn’t want him kissing or touching her again. As her feet touched the pavement, she heard him laughing. “See you tomorrow, Barbara.”
Barbara nodded to the concierge and took the elevator to Gillian’s floor. She knocked on the door and waited for Gillian to let her in.
The younger woman raised her eyebrows in surprise. “I guess you didn’t get to see the inside of the Omni Hotel.”
“Why doesn’t he just invite women to his home? Wouldn’t that be less trouble and less expensive?”
“He loves to court women and give them a taste of a more opulent lifestyle. As for money, he’s loaded.” Gillian was thoughtful for a minute. “He puts up many of his clients at the Omni. I wouldn’t be surprised if he wrote off all those expenses.
“What is that heavenly smell?” Barbara asked. “I had a big brunch, but I’m salivating just taking in that aroma.”
“Before I went out, I threw some meat and veggies into the slow cooker. We’re having my famous stew tonight. I didn’t make any plans for later. I thought you’d spend the evening with Stewart.”
“Why don’t we take a nice long walk along the waterfront?” Barbara looked ruefully at her tightening waistband. “I could use the exercise.”
Gillian suddenly became animated. “I’ve got an even better idea! Let’s go see the Lincoln Park Zoo Lights. It’s an amazing sight with millions of colored lights illuminating the park. And they have these beautiful ice carvings and snow globes filled with holiday characters. We’ll also get to see Santa surrounded by exotic animals, not real of course.” Her eyes were sparkling. “I
t’s been a while since I’ve gone there. I’d love to go again.”
“Sounds good to me. We’ll be outside and get lots of exercise.”
With the evening plans in place, the women set the table and enjoyed their meal. Barbara was impressed by the tenderness and the flavor of the meat. She made a mental note to use the slow cooker that was collecting dust in one of the back cupboards of her kitchen.
After tidying up, the women freshened up their makeup and set out for the zoo. Thanks to Gillian’s skillful driving, they arrived in record time and joined the large groups of people moving at a leisurely pace. Barbara was impressed by the ice carvings and persuaded Gillian to watch as one of the artisans demonstrated his skill. Gillian talked her into getting a temporary tattoo on her arm. Both women knew exactly what they wanted. Gillian selected a tiger design while Barbara went with a Monarch butterfly.
“Gillian. Gillian Sanderson. You’re the last person I’d expect to see here.”
Gillian rolled her eyes and forced a smile on her face. She nodded toward the man and his family.
While the man looked vaguely familiar to Barbara, she immediately recognized the young woman from last night’s party. Patrica, no Patrice. And then she remembered the man’s name. Jim. He had sat across from her at last night’s dinner party. They made small talk for a few minutes and Jim took out his camera. “I’ve got a great idea. Why don’t we all pose with Santa? It’ll make a fantastic shot, and I know Edgar will love it. He’s always talking about building more staff community. He’ll probably post it on the bulletin board.” He looked excitedly at his family and the two women.
The children clapped their hands and agreed. Patrice and Gillian smiled tightly at each other. He persisted. “Come on, ladies. Let’s have some fun.”
The children led the group eagerly to Santa’s station. Thankfully, there were only a couple of families in line. Jim talked one of the bystanders into taking the picture. As soon as their turn came up, he sprung into action organizing everyone around Santa and the animals. Each child sat on one of Santa’s knees. Barbara and Gillian stood directly behind Santa, with Patrice and Jim acting as bookends. Santa whispered into each child’s ear, and the children responded with their respective gift lists.
Between Land and Sea Page 12
