F
rom the second Sierra’s feet hit the floor the next morning her day was non-stop, and she loved every minute of it. There was nothing like having the satisfaction of pairing the right people with the right property. She didn’t believe in a hard sale. She wanted her clients to be satisfied before and
after
they purchased from her.
A little before eleven, she was in her office doing paperwork and waiting for her eleven-thirty appointment when Martin showed up with a tray. Her first appointment had been at seven with an international banker in town on business. His flight to Hong Kong had been at nine thirty. She’d shown him around the property, then taken him to the airport, adhering to the speed limit.
“Martin, I hope that’s for me.”
He smiled with boyish charm. “It is. We want to keep our exclusive broker happy.” He placed the tray on a nearby table, then lifted the domed lid on a grilled chicken salad with honey pecans and a croissant.
“Thank you.” She took the cane-backed seat he held. “This is perfect.”
“This is from Mr. Navarone.” Martin handed her a key on a ring. “A golf cart is available for you to take the clients around the property so they can see the private sanctuary and landscaped pool areas.”
“Navarone Place is the height of luxury, with a focus on outstanding amenities and privacy. If I could afford it, I’d certainly live here part of the time.” She blessed her food, then took a bite of salad.
“Why not all the time?” the chef asked.
“My family is in Santa Fe. Although it is dry and hot, I love the city, the people, the food. I can’t imagine not being able to live there,” Sierra told him, thinking that was one more strike against her and Blade.
“I’ll let you finish your meal.” Martin went to the door. “By the way, Mr. Navarone said that although there’re no speed signs posted, he hopes you’ll keep it to a respectable pace.”
“He can always wish,” she said, knowing Martin would tell Blade. She shouldn’t tease him, but she admitted she liked keeping him on his toes, just as he kept her on hers.
Finished with her salad, she got ready for her next client, a movie star traveling incognito as Ann Frank. The actress was thin, beautiful, and blond. Sierra soon learned “Ann” could be difficult as well.
She took one look at Sierra’s condo and wanted it. “I want this place with all the furnishings,” she said, her long fingers gliding possessively over the curved back of one of the eight Louis XV–style dining-room chairs.
Since Sierra had been around her aunt, Felicia Falcon, who had wealth and style, she merely nodded her head, glad she had anticipated such a possibility. Without missing a beat she gave the woman the additional $350,000 price tag for the furnishings.
The woman didn’t blink. “Accepted. Of course, I want this unit closed to viewing immediately, and you’ll have to move.”
Again, being around the wealthy who thought their money and their name gave them carte blanche, Sierra kept her expression pleasant. “I’m sorry, but your terms are unacceptable. We’ve only recently begun selling. Prospective buyers deserve to see the possibilities they can accomplish by living in Navarone Place. However, all Navarone Place home owners will have a decorator at their disposal.”
The woman’s blue eyes went cold. “I don’t think you understand. If my terms can’t be met, the sale is off.”
“I understand perfectly.” Sierra went to the front door and opened it. “Thank you for giving us the opportunity of showing you what is destined to be the premiere address in the city, possibly the Southwest. I won’t keep you.”
The woman’s mouth gaped; so did her assistant’s. One of the two bodyguards smiled behind a closed fist. Apparently, “no” wasn’t a word the actress was used to hearing. “Do you know who I am?”
Sierra reeled off the movie star’s stats down to what her last movie had grossed and her paycheck. She always did her homework on her appointees. “The answer is the same.”
The slender woman flipped her crimped hair, drew herself up in a chocolate Chloé double-breasted cropped jacket and pumpkin-colored silk ankle pants. The black leather shoulder bag and platform wedges were by the same couture designer. The outfit easily cost several thousand dollars. Her diamond watch and drop earrings were Cartier. “Wait until Blade hears how you’ve treated me.”
Sierra was unable to mask her start of surprise. The woman smiled. Sierra’s temper spiked. She tapped her voice-activated headset. “Blade.”
He came on almost immediately. “Blade.”
“You’re needed immediately in my quarters. A client wishes to speak with you.” Sierra disconnected the call before he could ask any questions. “He’s on his way.”
The woman handed the large bag to her assistant, then went to stand by the French doors. It took Sierra a few moments to understand she was posing for the best effect. The bright morning sun turned her golden permed hair into a halo; her face looked angelic.
Behind Sierra, the door opened abruptly. Blade came through, looking drop-dead gorgeous and dangerous. His gaze took in the room in one encompassing sweep and zeroed in on her. By the look on her face, he knew she was steaming. “Are you all right?”
Sierra bit down on the jealousy threatening to choke her. Blade had been with that woman, and how many others before her?
“Sierra?”
“Blade,” the actress purred, still poised by the French doors.
He threw a fleeting look at the woman. “Why did you call me?”
“She refused to sell me the furnished condo and move out,” the woman told him, finally moving closer to him when it didn’t appear as if he’d come to her. “I told her how unhappy you would be.”
“You’re right. I am.” He kept his gaze on Sierra. “Do I need to tell you how to handle this?”
“I told you Blade wou—”
“I’m the exclusive broker, not Blade,” Sierra said, cutting the woman off. Either she was in charge or she was walking. “It goes without saying that the caliber of people seeing the estate would not abuse it and neither would I. If you wish to still purchase this property and its furnishings, we can talk. Otherwise, this conversation is over. Have a nice trip home.”
“Blade, are you going to let her talk to me that way?” the woman pouted.
“Yes,” he told her. “Have a nice trip.”
“Your loss. Both of you!” She huffed out of the room with her assistant and two bodyguards following.
Blade folded his arms and stared down at Sierra. “You make me happy and sad.”
“I don’t like ultimatums,” she said.
His arms unfolded to take hers. “You also didn’t like it that she tried to use knowing me to get her way. I’m glad you were a little jealous, but saddened that you didn’t just tell her to go to hell.”
“I thought about it,” she admitted.
“So why didn’t you?” She clamped her teeth together and looked away. “Sierra?” Blade gently shook her. “We both have work we need to get to.”
“I wanted to see how you’d react, what you’d do when you saw her,” she finally admitted.
“And?”
She lifted her eyes to his. “You didn’t pay her any attention. You just looked at me.”
“Because you’re the only woman I’m interested in.” He brushed his lips across her forehead. “And just so you know, she and I were never an item. You’re the first woman I’ve taken out in a number of years that I wanted to see again.”
She discovered she was possessive enough not to want any women before her. But that wouldn’t be realistic. He was with her now. “I’ve always been lucky.”
He kissed her again. “I’m expecting a call from the foreman in Mexico. I’d better get back.”
“Blade,” she said when he was at the door. “You know you just turned down a six-million-dollars-plus sale?”
“But I kept someone priceless,” he said; then he was gone.
“Oh, Blade,” Sierra said softly. “Don’t make me fall in love with you,” she whispered, afraid it was already too late.
S
ierra’s day continued at its frantic pace. She’d just seen her last appointment to the elevator when her cell phone rang. “Sierra Grayson.”
“Ms. Grayson, this is Ross at Checkpoint One. There is a Mr. Robert Harrison the Third here. He wants to see if he might come up just for a moment.”
Checkpoint One was at the elevator on the first floor. Sierra glanced at her watch. Five forty-five. She was supposed to pick up Dominique in fifteen minutes. Impossible even if she tested her luck, or her stupidity, as the case might be in the Maserati.
“The gentleman said he would really appreciate it. He doesn’t live in the city,” Ross continued.
“I’ll be right down.” Sierra disconnected the call. She’d make the decision once she met Harrison. Grabbing her purse, she headed for the elevator. During its descent, she called Dominique to tell her she was running late.
Stepping off, Sierra saw a man who appeared to be in his early sixties sitting in a chair. Two slender young auburn-haired women in animal-print tulle halter sundresses that shouted couture stood on either side of him. The man’s hands were propped on top of a walking cane. Seeing her, he came slowly to his feet. Both of the young women reached out their hands as if to steady him if necessary. It wasn’t.
“Sierra Grayson, exclusive broker, Mr. Harrison.” She extended her hand, careful of his. It was calloused. Although the handshake was limp, she sensed a strength about him.
His gaze went to her shoulder bag. He leaned heavily on the cane. “Ms. Grayson, since I don’t have an appointment, I’ll talk fast. These are my twin daughters, Paula and Darla.”
Sierra nodded to the two women. They returned the greeting.
“They’ve been accepted at the University of Texas Medical School, a short distance from here,” Mr. Harrison said. “I might be old-fashioned, but I want to make sure they’re safe and I don’t see much sense in paying rent for four years with no benefit.”
“I agree with you on both counts, but I have an appointment,” Sierra said. “I’d be glad to send you information on the properties available.”
“Ms. Grayson, flying is rough on this arthritic body and before my girls stay anyplace, I want to see it, but I understand and I thank you for taking time to talk with me. Good day.” He slowly turned and both daughters flanked him as he took slow steps across the wide lobby.
A father’s love. Sierra had lost her father when she was an infant and had never experienced that kind of total devotion. “Wait.” She went to them. “I can cancel the appointment if you’d like to come up.”
Mr. Harrison stared at her. “What changed your mind?”
“Your love for your daughters,” she said. “If you’ll come this way, I’ll show you the estates.”
“Thank you.”
On the way upstairs, she called Dominique, who understood. Her own father had been the same way when she went to college.
“Here we are,” Sierra said, and opened the door, well aware that the first sight they’d see would be the breathtaking Dallas skyline at sunset through the huge picture windows and the French doors leading to the terrace.
“It’s beautiful,” one of the twins whispered.
“And secure,” Sierra said, placing her handbag on the sofa. “A doorman will be on duty twenty-four hours and the elevators need key cards to access. Each residence will feature a priority phone with direct access to the twenty-four-hour manned security located in the building. The gated access garage will have twenty-four/seven security as well.”
“That takes a load off my mind,” Mr. Harrison said.
“The great room is twenty by thirty. You’ll note the hand-carved crown molding, imported crystal chandeliers, and twenty-foot ceilings throughout.”
Sierra moved to the kitchen. “Here we have built-ins with under-the-counter lighting, can lights, stainless-steel appliances, and hand-carved and -finished cherry cabinets with glass fronts.” She stopped to open the side-by-side built-in refrigerator. Thanks to Martin and Jenkins, it was fully stocked. “If you like to entertain or just like space, this is the perfect place. Now if you’ll please follow me, I’ll show you the elegant master suite. It has double crown molding, a ceiling fan and a chandelier, and a sitting area with a wood-burning fireplace.”
Sierra stopped just off the master suite and opened a white six-panel door. “Cedar closet for your furs.”
The twins grinned at their father. He smiled back. Sierra noticed the exchange. So he did spoil them.
“The other two bedrooms are almost as spacious with their own bath with travertine shower and flooring, jet tub, and walk-in closet.” She continued down the hall and pushed the door open. The twins’ eyes rounded at the luxurious room. “Feel free to look around. Please note the handblown crystal chandeliers in the bathroom and another sitting area and fireplace.”
The twins didn’t need any further urging. They took off, leaving their father behind. Sierra listened to their excited chatter and knew there was an excellent chance she had a sale. “When you’re finished I’ll show you the other estates.”
It was a good thirty minutes before the twins were ready to leave, and then reluctantly. The entire tour of all the estates took much longer than usual because of the slow pace of Mr. Harrison.
“How much is the first one you showed us with the furnishings?” he asked when they finished.
Sierra gave him the figure. He looked at the twins clinging hopefully to his arms and said, “Where do I sign?”
The twins squealed. Sierra waited until the elated sounds died, then explained that they couldn’t take occupancy until the grand opening and why. They readily accepted the conditions. After the contract was signed they returned to the estate. One of the twins whipped out her camera to take pictures; then they debated who would have the master bedroom. Their father would have the third bedroom and be able to visit from Tucson as much as possible.
Sierra wanted to ask if he knew Blade but didn’t. Mr. Harrison hadn’t mentioned him, so she wouldn’t. It was well after nine when she saw them to a limousine waiting at the curb behind Blade’s Maserati. She wouldn’t be using it that night.
Mr. Harrison was about to get inside when he turned and slowly straightened. “I have a confession to make. I don’t need this.” He lifted the cane.
Sierra crossed her arms and lifted a brow. “Why the charade?”
“For us,” Darla said. “We saw the place on the Web site and loved it immediately.”
“Daddy called for an appointment, but was told the earliest was next week,” Paula added. “It’s near the med school, the Arts District, restaurants, and everything. It’s perfect.”
“It was the only thing I could think of,” their father said a bit sheepishly. “We lost their mother two years ago and I tend to spoil them, but they make me proud every day. They had their hearts set on that place and I was afraid to wait.”
“It almost sold today,” Sierra told them. The twins clamped their father’s arm tighter in distress. “But just so you know, I figured out your ruse fifteen minutes after we met when I took your arm. It’s muscular, not arthritic. Neither are your hands. You might have sold Harrison Steel, but your name is well-known.”
His bushy brows bunched. “I’ll be. Why didn’t you boot us out?”
“Your love for your daughters still rang true.”
“Where were you going?” Paula asked.
“Shopping with my cousin.”
The twins moaned. “We’re sorry.”
“Any way I can make it up to you?” he asked.
“Send me customers,” Sierra said, unfolding her arms.
“Count on it. Good-bye, and thanks again.” He climbed inside after his daughters.
“Well done.”
Sierra turned, knowing she’d see Blade. He came toward her in that slow, graceful way of his that made her go soft inside. “Glad you approve.”
He stopped beside her. “Should I tell them to put the car up or do you want to take a ride?”
“Let’s walk.” She laughed at the aghast expression on his face and reached for his hand. “Come on, it’s good for you.”
He spoke over his shoulder to the nearby security guard: “Please call Shane and have him put the car up.”
“Don’t trust anyone else driving it, eh?”
“No.”
She felt happy, almost giddy, and realized the man beside her, not the sale, was the reason. “Is everything all right in Mexico?”
“Yes. There were some minor problems with the stability of the canals, but that’s been corrected. We’re still ahead of schedule.”
By mutual consent they took the lite path to the landscaped pool. The rustic planters, fountain, and cushioned lounge chair for the photo shoot planned the next day with Dominique were tempting. Still holding Sierra’s hand, Blade sat and pulled her down beside him. Faintly she heard traffic noises, but the surrounding shrubbery drowned most of it. It was almost as if they were the only two people in the world.
It seemed the most natural thing in the world to lie in his arms, her head on his chest, listening to the beat of his heart, which matched the crazy tempo of her own. “Tell me something about you that nobody else knows.”
The second he tensed under her she knew she had asked the wrong question. She could let it go or try to help him heal. “When I was trying to get an interview, I read everything I could about you, but there was little to learn about the man behind Navarone Resorts and Spas.”
“Boring stuff.” His hand lazily glided up and down her back. “What about you?”
“I climbed out my bedroom window to meet Jeremy Woods.” Blade’s hand stilled. “My brothers said he wasn’t any good, but he was a senior, handsome, popular, and had lettered in every sport. And he had a little red Corvette that beat everything on the road except Cameron’s souped-up Mustang. I was a lowly sophomore who had just missed the cut for the cheerleader squad.”
“He took advantage of you?” Blade bit out.
“I’d like to think it wouldn’t have gotten that far,” she told him, a little bit ashamed of sneaking out.
“What happened?”
“I went to the local hangout and saw him and Alberta Moore, another senior, making out in his Corvette.”
His hand resumed stroking her back. “This might sound harsh, but I’m glad.”
“Me, too.” She sighed. “It made me listen to my brothers about boys, then men, from that night on.”
“Until now.”
Denying it would be a lie. “Until now.”
Silence settled around them except for the crickets. “My father died when I was five. My mother when I was seven. When none of my relatives came forward to take me, I was sent to an orphanage. Some of the staff there didn’t have much use for a full-blooded Cherokee.”
Sierra came abruptly upright. Her eyes blazing. “There are stupid people everywhere.”
His hand gently cupped her cheek. “Took me a long time to figure that out.”
Her hand covered his. “I’m glad you did.”
“So am I.” Curving his hand around the back of her head, he drew her to him. His lips were firm and warm as he kissed her. He twisted and she was under him.
The weight of his muscled warmth sent shock waves of pleasure pulsing through her. She wanted more.
Her breasts ached. His hand cupping them wasn’t enough. She didn’t protest as his agile fingers flicked the buttons and spread her jacket. She knew the pleasure his hands could bring, but she had no idea what to expect when his hot mouth circled the turgid peak.
Her back arched; a blissful moan drifted over her parted lips. He took the sensitive point between his teeth, his tongue laving. Her hands speared through his unbound hair, holding him tightly to her.
Her body burned. She moved restlessly beneath him, wanting something more. As if realizing it, the heel of his hand pressed against the juncture of her thighs. “Blade.” His name was a ragged plea.
Lifting his head, he muttered a curse and pulled her tightly to him. “I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have started this out here.” He leaned away to fasten her bra and button her jacket.
She didn’t know if she should cry in frustration or thank him. “You can put me back in my clothes as fast as you can get me out of them.”
“Believe me, one day I won’t.” Pulling her upright, he straightened her jacket and finger-combed her hair. “You’re too beautiful for me not to have at least tried to kiss.”
“Protecting my reputation.” It was a statement.
“Yes, although you tempt me more than I possibly imagined.” Catching her hand, he started back the way they had come.
B
lade tried to work but kept glancing at the clock on the desk in his office. Sierra should have been back from her shopping trip with Dominique by now, he thought. Sierra had had to cancel for the past three days because of the increased interest in Navarone Place.