Toxic

by Debra Jupe

  Mike chuckled. “Maybe you should extend an olive branch. Turn on the charm. After all, she did save your life.”

  He forced a swallow past the new lump that formed in his throat, grimacing from the bitter taste of his saliva.

  “Yeah, that’ll work,” he said dryly.

  “Give it a shot. Can’t hurt.”

  He struggled to find patience. The man was his boss for the moment. If Ethan wanted to continue this project, then he had to play his game to some degree, even though the idea was ridiculous.

  “I’ll stop by now.”

  “Just set it up, and make sure she stays quiet until Friday. I’ll do the rest. As a matter of fact, I’m going to phone Bud now. See if I can’t get him to hold off his deputy from interviewing her until later in the week.”

  “Shit,” Ethan muttered, after he’d rung off.

  He summoned his GPS for Desoto Landscape Design and Lawn Maintenance and pointed his pickup to follow the instructions until he arrived at a coffee colored building located on the outskirts of town. He sat in front of the office for a long while, not knowing what to say, or how he would say it if the words came to mind.

  Finally, he opened the door and stepped into the hot sun. He’d like to do what he normally did. Turn off his emotions and wing it. The winging part he may get, but shutting down his feelings would be near impossible with this woman.

  ****

  Gracie breezed into her office and sang a strained, “Hey, Betty.”

  Her secretary sat at her desk, her iron gray head bent over an electronic tablet, a steaming cup placed within arm’s reach.

  Betty peered at her through thick lenses, her sharp features enhanced by a mouth that always seemed to frown. “Gracie.”

  Gracie paused to gather the unopened mail laid neatly at the desk’s edge “I am so far behind today.” She sifted through the stack giving Betty a quick glance. “Anything I need to attend to right away?”

  Betty shuffled the tablet aside. She slid a hand into her stackie tray for a small notepad, tearing off several pages. “A few phone calls, but that’s all.”

  Gracie extended a palm.

  Betty adjusted her trifocals and laid the posts in front of her. Fingers interlocked, connected hands rested onto the desks surface. She stared at Gracie.

  Gracie’s eyebrows rose. “Messages?”

  “Stewart’s gonna remarry, huh?”

  “Good news travels fast. You spoke with my mom?”

  Gracie stifled an eye roll. Her mother probably wore out the speed dial with this information. Betty and her mom had been friends since their schooldays. Betty’s name would’ve been first on the call list.

  “Of course, I talked to your mama. A dang idiot, isn’t he?” She didn’t give Gracie a chance to answer. “Don’t you worry over that sorry excuse of a man. He’s shown his behind on more than one occasion. He’s only acting like himself again.”

  “I’m not worried, Betty.” She closed her eyes, mindful of what was about to come, though powerless to stop it. “I don’t have time to discuss this now, but I’m dealing with the fallout.”

  “Just like you dealt with the divorce?”

  “Excuse me?” She straightened, arms folded over her chest. She glared at Betty. Though grateful for her loyalty, Gracie wasn’t prepared to suffer through one of her self-proclaimed “expert” opinions. Not today.

  Betty shook a finger at her. “You heard me. Just like you dealt with the divorce. Or haven’t. How long since he left you? Two years? I guess you’ll throw yourself into this business again. Keep on ignoring the other aspects of your life.”

  “I don’t overlook anything in my life.”

  “All you do is work, girl. You need to socialize. Shake things up, go out for some fun.”

  “I enjoy time with my friends.”

  “You only associate with woman friends. Married, lunch buddy, female friends. I’m talking about mixing with the single population. The unattached, male population. You should get out some. Date. “

  “I date.”

  “Not for a while. From your description, they’re all duds.”

  Gracie shrugged and made a face. She couldn’t argue. To say her social life was at a standstill would be an understatement. But she’d already had this conversation with Krystal, in a much more dignified way. She didn’t care to repeat it with her secretary, old family friend or not.

  “Time goes fast, Gracie. You need to start living again. You played the part of the wronged ex-wife long enough. Deal with the heartache and move on. Get out. Raise some hell, girl. Do something that’ll shock your mother.”

  The office door opened. Intense light from the mid-afternoon sun blazed through the gap, a rush of hotness heated the entryway, triggering the air conditioner to click on.

  The brightness reduced the visitor to nothing more than a shadow. The large, silhouetted frame stepped inside from sunshine. He stopped to tuck his sunglasses into his shirt pocket.

  Gracie’s mouth dropped, and for once Betty was silent.

  “Ms. Desoto.”

  Gracie managed to choke out a squeaky, “Ethan.”

  Betty grinned at her with raised brows. “Ethan?”

  Words failed her. She’d done nothing but think about him since they’d parted earlier. Even so, she’d decided their one encounter would remain a single, which shouldn’t be a problem if he wasn’t going to hang around long. She could avoid the nursery until then, and she’d planned to feign sickness to get out of going to Mike’s party.

  But here he was, all rugged and muscled. His high testosterone level overpowered her small office.

  Ethan looked at Betty. “I’m Ethan McCarthy. Ms. Desoto and I met this morning.”

  Betty’s smile widened. “Oh you did?”

  “He’s Mike new foreman.” Gracie’s voice still high pitched and unnatural sounding. “For a while, anyway.”

  Betty glanced at Ethan, then leaned across her desk and whispered to Gracie, “Now that’s what I’m talking about.”

  Ethan’s gaze zeroed in on Gracie. “Is there a place we can talk?” He glanced at Betty. “In private?”

  Alone? Gracie’s once inactive libido suddenly stood at attention followed by a firm salute. She motioned toward her office, stretching for the knob and missed it completely.

  “In here.” Making a second stab, she grabbed the handle and twisted, standing back to let him pass through then followed him inside. She peeked around at Betty as she closed the door. “Hold my calls.”

  Betty shot her another crafty grin. “For as long as you need me to, honey.”

  She turned to Ethan, hoping the heat on her face wasn’t apparent. He paced about, as if inspecting her office. The space was small, with only enough room for her desk, a file cabinet, and a tiny credenza placed behind her chair. And her fridge.

  Ethan’s tremendous presence made the minute size seem even tinnier.

  “You’re okay now?” She realized his health wasn’t the reason for his visit but she was too flustered to ask why he was here. “What’d the doctor say?”

  “No permanent damage. I’m just thirsty.”

  She stepped behind her desk and gestured to her little refrigerator. “I have drinks.”

  “I doubt if you’ve got what I want.”

  “I don’t keep alcohol here,” she stated primly.

  A corner of his mouth lifted. “You look like someone who does only healthy, and I’d prefer something bad, like a soda.” He stroked his throat. “Relieves the scratchiness.”

  She bent and opened the fridge and removed a can, handing it to him.

  “Looks can be deceiving. I have a slight chocolate addiction. Soda enhances the buzz.”

  He chuckled and eyed two candy bars lying on her desk.

  A palm snapped to cover her treats. Her gaze narrowed. “Don’t think about it or getting poisoned won’t be the worst thing that’s happened to you today.”

  “Lady likes her sweets.”

  “
I do.” Then she stopped, recalling their previous encounter. Her face reddened even more. Her earlier demands of his credentials had been way out of line and embarrassed her now. “Um, I am sorry about my questioning you over your plant knowledge this morning. I wasn’t aware of your employment situation.”

  “I should’ve explained.”

  Gracie gave a slight nod, glad he easily moved past her impoliteness. “How long are you going to be at the nursery?”

  “Three months tops. Then I’m on to other assignments.” He smiled. “Any other questions?”

  God, she was doing it again. Why couldn’t she just bite her tongue and let this guy go. She wanted to know the reason for the visit, but after her over the top inquiries, the words wouldn’t form. Even though he’d been agreeable so far, she got the impression he didn’t appreciate her constant queries, even if the habit was second nature. A nervous smile flickered across her lips. “That’s all.”

  An awkward silence followed as seconds turned into minutes. He took several long sips of his drink. “I suppose you’re wondering why I’m here.”

  Finally. “Well…yes.”

  “I came to apologize.” He hesitated. “For my behavior. I’m afraid I wasn’t particularly gracious earlier. You risk your life to save mine when you clearly didn’t have to. I do appreciate the efforts.”

  Gracie struggled, taken aback by his frankness. “I only did what anyone would.”

  “Not so sure, but if that’s a “you’re welcome” I’ll take it.” He scanned the piles of paperwork on her desk. “Looks like you have a lot to do, so I won’t take up any more of your time. I need to get to the nursery, anyway.”

  “You’re going back?”

  “I work there, why wouldn’t I?”

  “Someone made an attempt on your life.”

  He gazed at her, his expression matter of fact as if someone trying to kill him was commonplace.

  “How come you’re not more upset about this?”

  “Former military. Did a couple of stints overseas. Afghanistan.” The corners of his mouth twitched again. “Not my first rodeo.”

  “This is a little different. Someone targeted you.”

  He didn’t respond. Steel, gray eyes penetrated her, cutting though her, hitting her straight to the core.

  “Um, have you talked to the police, yet?”

  He looked surprised. “The police?”

  “Yes, somebody tried to kill you. Krystal said Mike had an appointment to speak with the authorities. They’ll want to speak with me, too. Please tell me Mike called them to investigate.”

  He took a long swig of his drink, finishing off the soda. Crushing the can between his strong, deft fingers, he tossed it into the trashcan next to her desk.

  Gracie planted her hands onto her hips. “You’re kidding me. Mike didn’t call anyone, did he? He loves to sweep negatives under the rug, but this is crazy.” She pointed a forefinger in his direction and stabbed the air. “And you’re letting him get away with it.”

  He turned away, lifting a shoulder. “I’m not letting him do anything. The nursery is out of city limits, therefore, not in the police’s jurisdiction. He contacted the sheriff, and they discussed the issue. He’ll also speak with me, and yes, he’ll get in touch with you later.”

  “Right,” she said caustically. “He and Sheriff Bud are super close—golf buddies. I bet the issue is no longer one.”

  “We’re doing what’s best for the nursery.” Ethan strolled to the exit, his fingers tapped the doorknob. “Mike needs you to do the same. Can you keep this quiet, please? At least until the investigation is completed?”

  “So that’s why you’re really here. You want me to keep my mouth shut.”

  He twisted the knob and stepped through the door. “Thanks for the soda. Ms. D. Have a lovely afternoon.”

  Chapter 6

  “First I see you on Monday and now again today. Two visits in one week. What do I owe the pleasure?” Hands thrust into his jean pockets, Ethan lumbered into an unused greenhouse. He preferred to skip this summons, but due to the circumstances, he had little choice other than to comply, unless he wanted trouble. Which he did not.

  The blonde woman waited. She regarded him through narrowed eyes. He gave her a onceover and marveled at her composure. The interior of the hothouse were stifling, yet her business suit remained crisp as if she’d just put it on. And though she walked across a long, graveled path to reach the secluded area, her dress shoes appeared clean and without scuffs. Even her hair stayed in place despite the hot, blowing winds.

  “I wanted to check on you before I took off.”

  Ethan set his shoulders. “I don’t need a babysitter, Becca.”

  She raised her perfectly shaped brows. “That’s not my intention, Ethan.”

  He wasn’t interested in her objective. While he respected her, even liked her to some degree, their personal and professional relationship staggered on a delicate, fine line and at the moment she’d crossed over.

  “Someone tried to kill you the other day. That may lead to lots of questions.”

  “How did you get back here without anyone noticing you? There’ll be even more questions if you’re spotted.”

  Situated almost behind the nursery, the house’s view was obstructed from the compound by overgrowth and low hanging tree branches, sitting far enough away from the activity that unless someone sighted anybody going in, no one would have a clue anyone had ventured inside.

  “No worries.” Her lips lifted into a cool smile. “I have my ways.”

  “I bet.” He combed his fingers through his hair. “As you can tell, I’m fine.”

  “This incident certainly has put you in a horrible mood, which I can understand.” She stopped and shot him another severe look. “But I don’t understand how you managed to get trapped in the first place. What happened to your ever so sharp skills?”

  “Let one slip by me, I guess,” he said, not thrilled to be reminded of his recent sting.

  “Lucky your little landscaper was such a quick thinker.”

  “She’s not my little anything.” He gazed at the tips of his work boots.

  “Not from what I hear.”

  Ethan’s head jerked up. What had she heard? Probably nothing. Her tone sounded smug, and she was undoubtedly on the warpath with the intent of smacking him below the belt. Somebody must have pissed her off. Possibly him, since her usual critique of his behavior was always harsh lately. Either way, he doubted she knew much about his recent encounter with Gracie Desoto.

  Or how he couldn’t get her out of his head.

  He’d enjoy getting to know her or would if she didn’t infuriate him so much. And the woman was way too perceptive. His gut told him she was probably diligent when she wanted answers. Instincts also alerted him that she was attracted to him too, although she’d never admit it.

  Images of her large, green eyes, and her sexy, little body swept through his mind. Pictures of her naked and underneath him had his cock nudging his jean’s zipper as beads of perspiration dotted across his forehead. He inhaled, forcing himself back to the present. Now wasn’t the time to allow his fantasies take over. His current situation needed his full attention.

  “I strongly discourage any contemplation you may have in getting close to this woman.”

  “I’m not contemplating anything. I’m just happy she was here to save my ass.”

  “Yes, well…we all are.” She fidgeted with a heavy beaded necklace that draped around her neck. “I’m thinking we may need to remove you.”

  His entire body stiffened. “Remove me? The job’s not done.”

  “Your work here is finished, whether the assignment is completed or not.”

  She walked across the torn ground cloth, careful not to snag her heals in one of the frayed rips, to stand in the doorway. She used her hand and fanned her face to stir the air. “I can’t afford to have any more mess ups.”

  Shit. He should’ve guessed something like this was i
n the works. Getting locked in an insecticide-filled greenhouse was huge, but his pride, among other things were on the line, and he’d fight to stay on this job. He wanted this SOB’s head on a golden serving dish and the body buried in an unmarked grave.

  “The decision has been made.”

  “Without including me?” He swung a leg and kicked a cracked, plastic flowerpot lying in the middle of the dirty sheeting. It bounced across the floor and smacked against the flexible side, landing on the ground with a plop, slitting in two. “Listen, I know you’re still pissed about a lot of things—”

  “No, Ethan, I’m way beyond ticked.” She spun around, her hands settled on her hips. “You weren’t paying attention.” She pursed her lips and cast him a death glare. “I call the shots, and I’m taking you off this assignment.”

  Ethan opened his mouth to argue, then he stopped to consider his line of reasoning and how to persuade her to recant her ruling. “You are my superior, true—but I strongly disagree with your choice. I’ve been on this project since the beginning. Things are coming together. Bringing in a replacement will put you back at square one. We’ve made too much headway to start over. A lot of time and money will be wasted, and my knowledge won’t be useful because I’m the only person who understands the process. Everything is too complicated to explain, it’d take forever for someone new to get it.”

  She sighed and dropped her arms to her side with a slap. By the look on her face, he could tell he’d made his case. He wouldn’t be going anywhere just yet.

  “You must be more careful,” she warned.

  “I will now that I know what I’m up against.” He turned to leave. “I gotta get back to work.”

  “This is your final chance.”

  He came to an abrupt halt.

  “No more mess ups.”

  “Of course.”

  He walked away without looking back, satisfied he’d saved his assignment, for now at least,

  It was a little after noon, and the heat scorched past one hundred. The breeze had all but disappeared. Sweat instantly covered him as he entered outside into the blistering temperature. He headed toward his truck. He’d left his shades inside, and the sun’s intensity made seeing almost impossible. On his way, he caught sight of Reed and his crew and made a detour.