by Louise Dawn
“Again—like that.”
He surged deep, pinning her with his hips, and she came apart. The feel of her clenching around him was too much to bear, and he pulled out fully before burying himself completely and shouting out his completion. Her hands clawed at his back as they both shuddered, and he dropped his head to her breast.
He’d never felt such an insane amount of need—of chemistry before. Antonio didn’t want to leave her body. Could he stay buried for weeks, for months? Could he remain in this moment for all time?
“Are you hurting?” He huffed out the words and traced a thumb over her side. “I think we pushed too hard.”
“That was… was… perfect.” Pearl giggled and stroked a hand down his back. “I feel like a noodle.”
“Yeah. I can’t even roll over. I’ll just lie here and suffocate you.”
“Death by being crushed by a tanned and muscled god? Not a bad way to go.”
Antonio snorted out a laugh and softly bit her breast. “Work is calling. How about another shower? Together. I want to keep touching you until I absolutely have to leave.” He pulled out and rolled to the side. Feeling the loss, he turned his head to face hers. “And also, how about a date? I want to take you out—flowers and a movie.”
“Wow.” Pearl propped herself up on an elbow. “Antonio Torres… you’re a romantic. Flowers and a movie?”
“Or wine and chocolate.” He grinned. “Pick your poison.”
Tracing a finger across his lips, Pearl returned his smile. “What kind of flowers?”
“I’m thinking, ivory-colored roses. The color of pearls for this sparkling beauty.”
“White roses from a white knight… nice.”
“I’m not a white knight.” Antonio sat up and traced her shoulder with a finger. The things he’d seen and done in the field. He’d always killed to protect others—fought extremists. But the darkness was stamped onto his soul. Antonio had been the grim reaper for many evil souls. He knew how to fight, kill and destroy.
And if needed, he’d use those skills to protect those who were precious. He looked into wide blue eyes framed by dark lashes. He wanted to give Pearl more than just an SUV. He wanted to give her his world.
Chapter Thirteen
Were they actually dating? Like a couple? Two dates in a week shouldn’t mean much, but Pearl couldn’t stop smiling. In reality, aside from work, they’d spent every evening together. Antonio had behaved like a real gentleman around Aysha, knowing her mom’s new romance would cause confusion for the tyke.
Smiling, Pearl listened to their conversation from the kitchen. It was a perfect Saturday morning, and she’d cooked a roast for lunch. A kids’ program blasted from the living room.
“Hey, Jitterbug, can I change the station?”
“Neo, don’t call me that!”
“Bugaloo, hand me the remote.”
“No.”
“Hey, Stinkbug, let me check the score.”
“You’re the stinky one!”
“Bichito, I mean it, I need to see the game. Five minutes.”
“Only if you buy me chocolate.”
“I’ll buy you a whole bag.”
Pearl walked up the small passage. “Don’t you dare. I have to deal with her sugar rush.”
Two bodies lay sprawled across both sofas, and she studied both man and child. Antonio looked relaxed after his morning workout session in black sweatpants and a t-shirt. His ruffled hair sat at all angles as he rested against a curled-up throw pillow. He’d quickly made himself at home, and Aysha seemed comfortable with the large warrior by poking him with a tiny foot. She lay half on and off the couch, and he grabbed for her leg.
“Did you just poke me?”
She giggled, and he lunged. “You are a stinkbug!”
“No! Stop.” Aysha screeched with laughter as he swung her into his arms and pretended to bite her shoulder.
“Ugh, too stinky to eat!”
“Neo!”
Their laughter was contagious, and Pearl couldn’t help but smile. Antonio dumped Aysha on his pillow and reached over for the remote. “Got it!”
“Not fair!” Aysha bounced onto her knees as he switched over to the football game.
Sitting down beside him, Pearl relaxed into the cushions. Feeling a sense of peace for the first time, she thought about her changing reality. Parts of her life needed to stay the same—moments like these. Times where she didn’t feel like she was rowing a sinking boat into the wind, instead, the seas felt calm, and she drifted in a forward direction.
“My parents have a barbecue tomorrow; do you want to come?”
“Uh… what?”
“It’s no big deal—and I’m sorry if this is too soon, but I want to spend the entire weekend with you and Aysha.”
“I don’t think—”
“I wouldn’t ask if I didn’t want you there. I really want you to meet my family.”
“Why?” Pearl asked as he changed the channel back to Aysha’s favorite station, turned up the volume, and handed her the remote.
“We’ve known each other for weeks, and although we’ve just… you know… I want you to meet the people I love. If this feels too awkward—”
“I don’t want us to rush,” Pearl spoke quietly.
All wrapped up in a cartoon, Aysha ignored the adults in the room.
Choosing honesty, Pearl shifted to face Antonio. “I have a daughter with a precious heart.”
“I know.” He grasped her hand.
“If you’re passing through our life.”
“I don’t want that—to pass through.”
“This isn’t a game. As a single mother, I have to protect my family.”
“I understand.” His steady gaze met hers, and Pearl’s heart turned over.
“What time?”
Antonio’s mouth turned up, and he squeezed her fingers. “I’ll pick you up at eleven.”
Praying she hadn’t made a mistake, Pearl rose to check on their lunch.
“Will Daddy be here?” Aysha asked excitedly as they drove up to the large home.
Pearl winced, and Antonio reached over and held her hand. He guessed that the little girl equated wealth with her father, and just seeing the Torres estate would form a logical connection.
“No, honey. We’re meeting Antonio’s family today.” Pearl eyed the sprawling home. “I didn’t realize your family was so… wealthy.”
She didn’t sound pleased and seemed almost intimidated, which surprised him. In Sri Lanka, Pearl had lived an affluent lifestyle and mingled with the rich and famous. This family barbecue should be a cakewalk.
“They don’t bite—I promise. Enjoy the warm afternoon.”
Pearl glanced down at the salad on her lap. “I should’ve brought wine instead. Or flowers. Gourmet cupcakes?”
Laughing at her stricken expression, Antonio reached for his door. “Relax. And, by the way, you look beautiful.”
She did, in a navy summer dress and an olive-green cardigan. The dress matched her eyes, and Antonio tried not to stare. Pearl also wore flawless make-up, an unusual sight since she’d arrived in the States.
He was used to seeing her without but found that she was just as lovely, either way. Her red lips looked so kissable, and as he helped her from the car, he resisted the urge to pull her into his arms.
Aysha skipped alongside them as Antonio led them up a side path. “Does Neo also have cousins? Like Seaton and Brooke?”
“You mean do I have ‘nieces and nephews’?” Antonio shook his head. “No other kids. You’re on your own, Bichito, but your mom brought along some toys and your swimsuit.”
“What about candy?”
“You and that tummy.” Pearl laughed just as they rounded the corner into the expansive backyard.
Heads turned, and she skidded to a stop.
His parents had gone all out and invited the whole of D.C. At least fifty bodies were scattered across the manicured lawn, littered around the sparkling pool. A whit
e tent had been set up in a corner next to the large fountain, and a jazz band played at the far end of the garden next to his mother’s rose bushes.
“This is a barbecue?” Pearl asked in a horror-tinged tone. “I need to hide this salad.”
“Stop.” Antonio chuckled.” Your salad looks perfect.”
“I chopped up the cucumbers in a hurry—they’re huge chunks. Oh, jeez. They’re serving champagne? And entrees?”
His mother had obviously hired a catering company. Antonio ran a hand through his hair and grunted. “Family barbecue, my ass.”
Pearl looked ready to bolt, and he grabbed the salad from her hands and herded her towards the back patio and kitchen.
“I’m underdressed,” she muttered.
“I didn’t think you’d come!” His father strode towards them in designer slacks and a polo shirt and pulled Antonio in for a warm hug.
He immediately introduced Pearl and Aysha, and his father’s brows rose. Aside from Bianca, Antonio had never brought a woman over to his parents’ and expected a surprised reaction from his family.
“Nice to meet you, Mr. Torres.”
“Call me Hector. Please, come in.”
Antonio led the way and placed the salad in the fridge as his mother walked in, looking elegant in a flowing pant suit. His pulse picked up. He wanted his mom to like Pearl. Both women meant the world to Antonio, and he took a deep breath before circling to Pearl’s side.
“Pearl, this is my mom.”
“I’m Audrey.” His mother gripped Pearl’s hand in a warm embrace. “My son never mentioned bringing such a pretty guest.”
Blushing, the woman at his side bowed her head once. “I… it was a last-minute decision. This is my daughter, Aysha.”
The kid seemed shy and clung to her mother’s side. Antonio leaned around and ruffled Aysha’s hair.
“Stop! Neo. You’ll mess up my ponytail.”
Antonio stuck out his tongue, and Aysha did the same.
“I’m sorry.” Pearl chuckled. “When they’re in the same room together, chaos ensues.”
With a pursed smile and a sparkling gaze, his mom touched Pearl’s arm. “Would you guys like a drink? Let’s get you settled.”
Looking more relaxed, Pearl and Aysha walked outside with his mother, and Antonio folded his arms.
“I didn’t know you were dating. Help me with the beef.”
“I thought you hired catering.” Antonio glanced at his father.
“I bought another smoker. A large bastard. I’m in charge of the barbecue today. Leo is helping.”
“Leo is here! You could open a barbecue restaurant at this rate.”
“I do love my basting.” Hector chuckled and led Antonio down the side of the house to three smokers and a large pellet grill currently manned by his big brother.
Leo turned and spotted Antonio. He definitely took more after their mother, with lighter hair and pale eyes. Leo was the tallest and widest of the three. He’d always been more machine than man and was mentally the toughest individual that Antonio knew.
His cynical humor paired well with his iron mask. To many, Leo Torres seemed like an enigma, which worked well with his position as a CIA agent. Antonio knew of his brother’s layered depths and the pain he carried from a teenage loss.
Not many got past his toughened walls, and Antonio worried that his brother would forever walk the planet alone.
“You’ve emerged from your spook cave. Where were you this time?”
“None of your fucking business, brother. Take your hands out of your pockets and give me a hug.”
“Yes, sir!” Antonio punched him in the shoulder instead, which earned a whack to the back of his head.
“Are you going to help with all this damn meat while Dad schmoozes with his D.C. pack?”
“I’m not schmoozing, Nino. Move out of my way. You’re letting this burn.” Hector grabbed the tongs from Leo and turned the chicken.
“So, you brought her and the kid?”
“Excuse me?”
“Do you think I was born yesterday? My brother starts asking after a war criminal. Do you think I would just step back?”
“How did you know?”
“Bro, who do I work for? Rajin Bandara’s ex-wife and child go missing shortly before he’s accused.”
Antonio turned. “I don’t know what you mean.”
Folding his arms, Leo cocked his head. “I spoke to Dad, who told me about your discreet inquiry. I dug into Bandara’s whereabouts—Rajin is still MIA, by the way. And then I got to thinking… why take such an interest? I got back to Virginia a week ago.”
“And you tailed me?” Antonio clenched his fists.
“To protect you. I won’t play games, and neither should you. Why are you involved with Pearl Bandara?”
“Shut your damn mouth.” Antonio shoved at his brother’s broad chest.
“You care.” Leo raised his hands. “That presents new challenges. Do you think Rajin won’t find them? You’re hoping he gets caught before that happens?”
“She’s using a different last name, and I have a network. I’m keeping an eye out.”
“I know what you’re doing. I’ve seen how late you’ve worked. For her, right? You’re hunting him for Pearl Bandara. And, some nights, you’ve slept in your car outside the condo. Will that be enough if a hit squad comes knocking?”
“I’m looking for a better safe house,” Antonio admitted.
“For how long? Why are you so personally involved?” That question came from his father, and Antonio turned and paced.
“Answer Dad’s question. Are you willing to risk your life? Because you’ve waded into dangerous waters.”
Aysha played on the pool steps, and Pearl sat on the edge and enjoyed the feel of the cool water on her bare feet. Antonio stood up to fetch Pearl another juice as his family chatted on the patio. She’d enjoyed getting to know his parents and their friends but hoped it was soon time to leave.
Her face ached from all the smiling, and Pearl was tired of polite conversation. She didn’t miss those old Sri Lankan circles. And besides, Pearl’s current job was all about catering to customers, and she didn’t want to spend her time off scrambling for the right words. Her whole life was about trying to fit in, and Pearl no longer had the energy.
As the afternoon had passed, the crowd had lessened, and Pearl stood. “That’s enough, Bug. Let’s get you back into warm clothes.”
“Five more minutes.”
“Mom’s tired, and my feet are cold. Let’s go.”
Grumbling, Aysha stepped into the towel that Pearl offered, and she lifted up her shivering kid. “Gosh, you’re getting big—and heavy.”
“I can take her.” Antonio appeared and placed down a glass, and Pearl gladly handed Aysha over.
“You’re all wet and cold. Yuck.” He tossed Aysha in his arms, and she shrieked and giggled.
“No—stop tickling. Throw me again.”
He did as asked, as they made their way to the guest bathroom. When he finally put her down, he turned and ruffled Pearl’s short hair. “I’m gonna help my dad clean a grill, and then we should get going. You look tired.”
His constant concern melted her heart, and Pearl watched as he walked down the long passage. After towel-drying her daughter’s hair and slipping her into dry leggings and a shirt, Pearl packed up their bag.
“I need to use the toilet, Mommy. Wait outside.”
“Do you need help?”
“No. I’m a big girl.” Aysha slammed the door.
“Don’t forget to wash your hands. I’m right outside.”
“Cute kid.”
The deep voice had Pearl raising her head. “Leo, right?”
Hands in pockets, the large man leaned against the wall. Despite his casual stance, lethal energy leaked off him in waves, and Pearl had the urge to step back. He had light hazel eyes, which felt unsettling and seemed to drill into her soul.
“We haven’t had a chance to tal
k.”
“You’re Antonio’s brother.”
“Bingo. A protective brother.”
Okay then. Pearl spotted the slight sneer.
“I’m glad. Antonio is a good man,” she stated confidently.
“That’s his weakness. He’s a protector. Antonio fell for his last girlfriend’s act, and now he’s doing the same with you.”
“An act?” Pearl frowned.
“I know about the rental home, the furniture, the SUV. You must be good at reading people. When did you decide to use him to get ahead?”
“You have some nerve.”
“No, you do, lady.” Leo pushed away from the wall and strode towards her. Pearl backed down the passage and pulled her bag to her chest.
“I get that you’re running from a bad situation, but if you break my brother’s heart, if you use him as a shield, there will be retribution.” He backed her against a wall, and Pearl sucked in a shuddering breath. From the deadly look in his startling eyes, he meant every word.
“Did you just threaten her?” Antonio grabbed his brother’s shoulder and swung him around before shoving him against a wall.
“She’s trouble.”
“I’ll thrash the daylights out of you.” Antonio raised a fist, and Pearl dove in between.
“Please don’t hit your brother. He’s trying to protect—”
“Step aside.”
“No. Leo is correct—about everything. I’ve relied on you too heavily. All I’ve done is take and—”
“The hell you have!” Antonio spoke through gritted teeth. His neck muscles were corded as his fist remained raised.
“Mommy? I’m done. I’m washing my handies.”
“This isn’t the time or place.” Antonio lowered his arm and shoved away from his brother. “You attack her, you attack me. Get that straight.”
“Bro—”
“Don’t come near her again. If you do, forget about having a brother.”
“Antonio, no.” Pearl reached out just as Aysha opened the bathroom door.
“The soap smells like bubblegum, Mommy. Smell.”
“I’ll meet you at the car.” Pearl stepped around the two angry men and took her daughter’s hand. Wanting to run anywhere, she concentrated on keeping pace with her tiny child as they walked around the side of the large house.
