CHAPTERONE MIDNIGHTCAMEANDwentwithonlythequietbuzzof meagertrafficalongthebeach.Anoccasionalhornblewor tiressquealed.Twopeopleexitedabarnearby,laughingtoo loudbeforepilingintoanSUVandsteeringdrunkenlyonto theroad. Intheshadowsofaweedriddenparkinglotatthebackof therundownmotel,noonenoticedthem.Avoidingtheglow ofthefullyellowmoon,theystoodbehindthesouthwall beneathabrokensecuritylamp. AlampDareMacintoshhadbroken. Oceanbreezesstirredtheairandheightenedhissenses. Whilescanningtheareaandrepeatedlypeeringattheblack vanhedrentedwhenfirstarrivinginSanDiego,Dare waited.

re waited.Hisfriend,TraceRivers,embracedhisyoungersister withchokingemotion. Ithadbeenalongtwodaysfilledwithfranticpreparation, littlesleep,lessfoodandloadsofpumpingadrenaline:the conditionsinwhichDareoperatedbest. Withthejobdone,andthensome,hedesperatelywanted somethingtoeatandaplacetosleep.Evenmorethanthat, hewantedtocheckontheskinny,abusedwomanstillout coldinthebackseatofthevan.

Tellme,Tracesaid,nottoAlani,whomhekeptcrushed close,buttoDare. Afteragainglancingatthevan,Darenodded.Hedfound AlaniandreturnedhertoTraceashedswornto,butneither manknewyetwhatshehad suffered. ShewasinTijuana,asyousaid.Lockedinatrailerwith someotherwomeninanisolatedarea. Heavilyguarded? Yes. Tracedrewastrainedbreath,andutteredwhattheyboth hadknown:Humantraffickers. Darenodded.Notmuchinthewayoffoodordrinks.Dirty, airlesswiththewindowsscrewedshut.Theyhadthe womenHehesitated,knowinghow Tracewouldtakeit,butheneededtoknow.Theywere leashed,chainedtogrommetsinthefloor,withjustenough chaintoreachatoilet.Nosink. Fuckers.Overcomewithrage,Traceknottedhishandinhis sistershairandsqueezedhertighter,protectively. Shedidntcomplain. Traceneverusedcoarselanguageinfrontofhissister,which meanthewasontheraggededge,barelyawareofwhathe saidordid.Darelookedaway fromthem,understandingthelackofcontrol. Hefocusedontherentedvan.Ihadtogothroughseveral lookoutsandafewarmedguardstogetheroutofthere. Quietly.Tracemadeitastatement,notaquestion. Therewasntmuchfuss.Darealwaysworkedinefficient

silence;analarmwouldhavebroughtmorearmedguards, possiblytoomanyforhimto combat.Asmuchashewantedtokillthemall,hehadnt. Onlythosemostresponsible. Bythetimetheemptytrailerwasdiscovered,Darewas alreadyheadingovertheborderintoSanDiegowhere Tracewaited.Overtheyearshedbuilt upallianceseverywhere,andsometimesworkedwiththe coyoteswhomadealivingtakingpeoplebackandforthover theborder. Thankstothosecontacts,evenwiththeextracargoslumped inhisbackseat,noonehadstoppedhimashewentthrough thebordercheckpoint.Thevan hadbeengivenonlyacursoryinspection,hisweapons ignored,andtheexcuseofthewomenbeingtirednever mindthatonewasbeatenandhaggard, onlyhalfdressedhadsatisfiedallquestions. Bothmenweredamngoodatwhattheydid.ButTrace couldntgoafterhissisterhimselfashedwanted,because themenholdingherknewwhathe lookedlike.BeforehedhaveevengottenclosetoTijuana, Tracewouldhavebeenspottedbylookouts. SoDarehadgoneandcomebackwithmorethanhed bargainedfor. Makingasmallsound,Alanituckedherfaceinclosertoher brothersshoulder.Thesiblingssharedblondhairandlight browneyes,butthatswherethe physicalsimilaritiesended.Tracewasthirty,ofanagewith Dare,eightyearsolderthanhissister.Hestoodsixfootthree andweighedovertwohundred

poundsallofitmuscle. Nexttohim,Alanilookedtinyandfragileand,presently, wounded.EvensinceDarehadremovedherfromthetrailer, freshbruisescontinuedtoshowon herarmsandaroundhernarrowwrists.Becausethe bastardshadplannedtosellher,theyhadntharmedher face. Innocencewasahugecommodity,andattwentytwo,having ledashelteredlife,Alanigaveoffadefinitevibeof innocence.Blondhaired,blueeyed womenbroughtthemostprofit,buthehadafeelingthat Alanisgoldenbrowneyes,incontrasttoherveryfairhair, wouldhavefascinatedthesickpricks. Dareprayedtheyhadntrapedher,knowingawoman illusedwouldbringless,butheleftthatuncomfortable discussionforTrace. Hearinganoiselikeasoftmoan,Darezeroedinonthevan withhissensesonalert.Hedleftthereardooropensohed hearherifshemoved,ifshe awoke.Butshedidnomorethanreadjust. Threehourshadpassedsincehedcarriedheroutofthat trailer.Worrygnawedathim. Whydidntsheawaken? Dare?Hiseyesfilledwithpain,rageandrelief,Trace whispered,Thankyou. Alanigaveanaudibleswallow,andthenshe,too,said,Yes, thankyou.Somuch. Puttingahandonhershoulder,Darerepliedwithoutwords. HedknownAlaniforyears,watchedhergrowup,andfelt likeapseudobigbrotherinmany

ways.Hedattendedhergraduation,bothfromhighschool andcollege.HedbeentherewithAlaniandTracewhenthey buriedtheirparents. Theyhadbecomepartofhishodgepodgefamily. TwodaysagohumantraffickershadsnatchedAlanioutside herhotelwhileshevacationednearthebeach.Tomorrow shewouldhavebeensold,and findingherafterthatmighthavebecomeimpossible. Rightnow,whatthesiblingsneededwastimealone,and Dareneededtosortthingsoutwithhisremainingpassenger. Ishouldgetgoing. TracefollowedDaresattentiontowardthevan,sawthe slim,dirtyfootthatappearedoutoftheopenrearpassenger door,andliftedoneeyebrowinan expressionofdisbelief.Youhaveapassenger? Asmallcomplication,thatsall. Youreserious? Dareshrugged.Thereweresixwomeninthatsmalltrailer, Trace.FourofthemwerelocalandscatteredassoonasIgot themfree.Henoddedhishead towardthevan.Thatonewasdrugged,nearstarved, grimy.Andinmanyways,eveninthecrampedconfinesof therustytrailer,shedbeenseparated fromtheothers,keptalone. Forcertain,shewasntthetypicalwomankidnappedforthe growingsextrade. Tracegrewcuriousinthatquietwayofhis.An Americancomplication? Ithinkso.Fromwhathedseenofhergrubbyface,she didntlookforeign.Shehasntcometoyet,soIhaventbeen

abletotalktoher. Alaniturnedinherbrothersarms,andshe,too,looked towardthevan.Shefoughtthemwhenevershecameto.She calledthemnamesandalmost eggedthemon.Alanishiveredinrememberedfear.It wassohorrible.Themenslappedheraroundforbeing mouthy,butshedidntstop.Shejust cursedthemmore. Darefrowned.Thelittleidiotmighthavebeenkilled. Foolhardy. Ithinkshewasreallyangry.Asifshecouldntfathom suchboldness,Alanitookabreath.Evenwhentheyheldher downtoforcemoredrugsonher, shedidntcry.Sheraged. DidshespeakEnglish? Nodding,Alanisaid,ShesoundedAmericantome.Imean, noaccentoranything. Consideringallthat,Daresaidaloud,Shewasnttherefor thesamepurposeastherestofyou. Probablynot.Sometimesfourorfiveofthemwouldcomein thetrailer,buttheydstandaroundherandIcouldntsee whattheydid.AsfarasIcouldtell, theyneverreallyleeredatherlikeShebitherlip, shiveredagain.Liketheydidtherestofus.Theynever seemedtobesizingherupforanything.They justpickedonher. Tracehuggedheragain.Itsallright.Youresafenow. Shenodded,shoredupbythecourageherbrotherhadgiven her,andfacedDare.Shewastherewhenwegotthere, alreadylookingprettybad.Once,

beforethemendruggedher,shetoldmehernamewas Molly. Mollywhat? Alanishookherhead.Wewerentsupposedtotalk,soIwas afraidtoaskheranything. Tracetuckedherbackincloseandaskedoverherhead, Whatareyougoingtodowithhernow? Noidea.Darethoughtofherinsubstantialweightwhen shedbeenoverhisshoulder,ofthattangled,lightbrown hairthathadconcealedmuchofher bruisedface.Hopefullysomeonewillpaymeforbringing herhome. Withoutreleasingherbrother,Alanireachedoutand punchedDareforthecallouscomment.Hegrinned,caught herwristandkissedherknuckles. Shedbeengivenaterriblefright,andtwodayshadprobably feltlikeamonth,butAlanihadspirit.Shedgetthroughthis, thankGod. ButtheotheroneHowlonghadtheyhadher?Andwhy? Impatientwiththoughtsofher,Daresaid,Igottarun. Holdupasec.Tracecaughthisarm,thenduginhisjeans pocketandpulledoutafatenvelope. Pissed,Daretookastepback.Whatthehellisthat? Expenses.AnddontcurseinfrontofAlani. Hell,justbecauseheusuallyhiredoutdidntmeanhed chargeafriendabrother.HedhavegoneafterAlaniifhed hadtocrawlthewholeway.Idont needit. Solemn,Traceheldtheenvelopeouttohim.ButIneedyou totakeit.

IthitDareanewhowdifficultthiswasforTrace,notjustthat hissisterhadbeenhurt,butthathehadntbeenabletogo afterherhimself. Daretooktheenvelope.Thanks.Heleanedinclose.And forfuturereference,Iresolvedtheissueofyoubeing recognized.Therewasnooneleftwho knewTrace. DeepsatisfactionglitteredinTraceseyes.Hegaveasharp nod.Ishouldhavedoubledtheamount. No.Daressmilewasntfriendly.Thatwasallmy pleasure. Withnofurtherdiscussionofmoney,TraceandAlanisaid theirgoodbyesandleftthelotinTracessilverJag.Theyd stayinanupscalehotelforthenight andflyhometomorrow.Untilthen,Tracewouldkeephis sisterunderverycloseguard. Darestoodthere,watchingthemuntilthepurroftheengine fadedandtheirtaillightscouldnolongerbeseen.Moon shadowssurroundedhim.Night creaturesgaveagentlecall. Thepeacefulambiancedidntdeceivehim. Handsonhiships,helookedagaintowardthevan.Now what? Thehospital,withallthosequestionsandalackofanswers? Ahotelroom?Thatwouldbehispreference,butnotwitha womanonthebrinkofdeath. Ifshewasonthebrinkofdeath.Drugscouldbeareal complication,givingfalsesymptomsandconcealingatrue stateofhealth.Itwaspossiblethatif shedjustcometo,shedbeokay.

Butmaybenot. Dareneededhertodrink,toeat.Anditwouldnthurttoget thebugsoutofherhair. Beforeheevenrealizedit,hestrodethatway,anxiousto lookinonheragain. Onehandonthetopoftheopendoor,theotherontheside ofthecar,Dareleanedinandfoundherawake.Enormous, bruisedeyesdominatedher face. Beforehecouldregisterthatshedcomearound,hegota verydirtyfoottotheface.Hard. Hejerkedback.Sonofa Theattacktookhimbysurprise,andevenwithhermeager strength,aheeltothenosehurtlikehell.Buthedidntwant tocompoundthingsby overreacting.Shedrecoveredwithavengeanceandmost probablyalotofconfusion.Thoughbloodtrickledfromhis nose,Darewasntdisabledinany way. Withnohelpforit,heleanedintothebackseatand,aftera verybriefstruggle,pinnedherdownwithherarmsoverher head,herlegscaughtunderhis. Thoselarge,slightlyunfocusedeyesglaredathim.They weredarkbrown,likerichchocolate,andatthemoment filledwithawealthoffearandrage. Shedidntscream,thankGod,justbreathedhardandfast andstrainedagainsthim. Youresafenow,Daretoldherwhiletryingtocontrolher inawaythatwouldntallowhertohurtherself.Yourein SanDiego,notMexico.

Sheblinkedfast,givingawayhernervousness. Daresoughttherightwordstoreassureher.Iwasthereto retrieveafriend,oneofthegirlstrappedinthetrailerwith you.Andthereyouwere,too,so Lackingasoundbusinessargumentforhisdecision,Dare rolledoneshoulder.SoItookyou. Shestilledalittle,wary,uncertain.Hopeful. Youroptionsnowarethehospital,hotelorpolice.Take yourpick. Secondstickedby.Adropofbloodfromhisnoselandedon herchesttominglewithdarkbruises,numerousscratches anddirt.Shedidntflinch,and shortofreleasingher,therewasntmuchDarecoulddo abouthisbleedingnose. Liftingherhead,shelookedbeyondhim,butitwasdark,too darktoseeandrecognizethedubioussafetyofanAmerican parkinglot. Then,justassuddenlyasshedattacked,shewentlimp,her headfallingback,hermusclesweak.Eitherfromherrecent exertionorcontinuedterror,Dare feltafinetremblinginherslimbody. Voicequaking,shewhispered,Hotel,please. Unexpected. Butappreciated.Wisechoice.Hewaitedfortheatrics,for thatscreamthatdidntcome.Cautious,Dareeyedher.Ican letyougowithoutmore violence? Shegaveonejerkynod. Slowly,hesatupandleveredhimselfoutofthevan.She didntmove.Shedidntlookcapableofmoving.

Strippingoffhisshirt,heusedittocleanthebloodfromhis bustednose. Whattodonow?Ifhewenttothefrontdesktoregister them,wouldshetrytoskipoutonhim?Darecouldseethat shewasntyetherself,didnthave muchleftofstrengthorcomposure.Ifpanicsenther running,shewouldntgetfar,andcouldenduprightbackin troubleagain. Buthecouldntverywelltraipseherintothemotelwithhim. Foronethingshereeked. Notthatheheldthatagainsther.Thankstotheconditions hedfoundherin,personalcleanlinesswouldhavebeen impossible.Buttoaddtothat,the spacetheydprovidedherhadntbeenmuchbetterthana dump.Hedseenratholesnearthemoldymattresstheyd suppliedher,aswellasavarietyof bugscrawlingaround. Foranother,sheworeonlyalongTshirtthatdidntquite reachherverydirty,scuffedknees,withanotheroversized mansbuttonupshirtoverit.The clothesdwarfedhersmallbody,lookingabsurd.Mudand morecakedherbarefeet.Herbrownhairlookedlikeithad beenthroughablender. Whilehetriedtosortouthisnextmove,sheslowlysat upright,holdingtightlytothebackoftheseatforbalance. Sheswallowedconvulsively.Doyou haveanythingtodrink? Withoutaword,heopenedthefrontpassengerdoorand fetchedabottleofwaterfromthefloor.Knowingshewas weak,heopenedthecapandhanded

ittoher. Hestartedtocautionheraboutguzzling,butshedidnt.She sipped,madeasoundofpleasure,sippedagain.Oh,God, thatsgood.Mythroatissodry,I thinkIcoulddrinkariver. Noproblem. Sittingbackagainsttheseat,sheclosedhereyes,butonlyfor amoment.Whatdayisit? Fascinating.Littlebylittle,shepulledittogether,andinstead ofhysterics,shewantedtomakesenseofthesituation.Dare admiredthatbecauseits whathewouldhavedone.Marchninth.Monday. Asifthatmadeherheadpound,shepinchedthebridgeof hernose.Theyvetheyvehadmeforninedays?Lower, moretoherself,shesaid,Ilost track,butitfeltsomuchlonger. Daregavealowwhistleinsurprise.Ninedaysandshewas stillalive?Unheardof.Capturedwomenwerenotkept aroundthatlong,becausehanging ontothemuppedtheriskofbeingcaught.Youwereinthat sametrailerthewholetime? Thewholetime.Strugglingwithemotion,shesippedagain, rolledherlipsinandturnedtowardhim.Imsorryabout yournose.Iwasntsure Dontworryaboutit.Inhislineofwork,hedhadworse injuries.Alreadyithadstoppedbleeding,andprobably wouldntevenbruise. Forsomereason,hisreassurancemadeherlookreadyto cry.Butsherallied.Imstillalittlewoozy.Ihaventeaten fordays.Shetouchedherhairand

flinched.GodknowsIneedashower.Andarealbedwould belikeheaven.Shetookafewmoresips,swallowing painfully. Darewatchedher,impressedthatsheshowedgreat intelligenceinnotgulpingthewater,whichwouldprobably havemadeherbarf. Shescrubbedatabruisedeyewithasmallfist,thensighed. Icantverywellbeseenlikethis.Humiliationleftmelong ago,butitwouldraisetoomany questions.Shelookedathimforasolution. Icancheckusin.Witheachpassingsecond,hegrew confidentthatshewouldntskipout.Shewasmore clearheaded,morereasonablethanhecould havehopedfor,givenwhatAlanihadtoldhim. Againshesipped,andDareknewitwastobuyherselfsome time,tothinkforaquietmoment. Holdingthebottletight,shedrewabreath.Ihavemoney, Mr.? JustcallmeDare.Hedidntsharehisname,orhisidentity, lightly.Hestilldidntknowenoughabouthertotrusther. Afteranod,shestuckoutadirtyhandwithchipped fingernails.MollyAlexander. Ridiculous.ButDaretookherverysmallhandinhis.Molly. Eventhoughshedinitiatedthehandshake,hisholdmust havealarmedher;shedrewbackafterbarelytouchinghim. Ihavemoneytoreimburseyou, Dare.Ipromise.Butobviouslynotonme.ForreasonsId soonergointolater,Idontwanttoinvolvethepoliceinany ofthis. Interesting.Whatsecretscouldthisskinnybitofawomanbe

hiding?Dittoonhospitals? Definitely.Sheshrunkawayatjustthethought.No hospitals. Ifshewenttothehospital,theydneedaname,andthen theydwanttocallthepolice.Whydidntshewantthem involved? Youvebeendrugged.Darewonderedwhattheydgiven her,andiftherewouldbeanysideeffects.Youknow,Molly, youcouldbesick,hurt No,nothurt. Herdefinitionofhurtdifferedgreatlyfromhis.Witharaised browheeyedseveralbruisesandscrapesonherdelicate skin.Someonehityou.Morethan once. Hereyescloudedagain,andhervoicewentgruff.Yes,andit wastheworstexperienceofmyentirelife.ButIllbefine. Areyouconvincingme,oryourself? Iwillbe.Ipromise. Lotsofpromises,Darethought.Heglanceddownathis bloodied,ruinedshirt,andtossedittowardanoverflowing garbagecontainerintheparkinglot. Intendingtofindanewshirt,hereachedaroundherforhis overnightbag. Gasping,shecoveredherfaceandscuttledbackintothe corneroftheseat.Butshealmostimmediatelycaught herselfandsatupagainasifin challenge. Unwillingtopressher,Darepaused.Wereonthesame side,remember? Pained,sheclosedhereyesandnodded.

Gutsylittlething,hedecided.Hepulledonthefreshshirt andthenwaited,armscrossed.Ifshedidntwanttopassout inthevan,shedhavetohurryitup andmakeadecision.Alreadyshelookedonthevergeof keelingover. Afterswayingfromwhatlookedlikeawaveofdizziness,she clearedherthroat.Ifyoucouldarrangeforaroomtonight, Idbereally,reallygrateful. Icoulddothat.Hercontinuedformalityconfoundedhim. Mostwomenwouldbebabblingandcryingfortheirmommy ordaddy,ormaybeahusband.Did Mollyhaveahusband,asignificantother? Avoidinghisgaze,sherolledherlipsinagain,tookafew deepbreathsandthenwhispered,Oneroomplease,but perhapswithtwobeds.Tearswelled, andsheblinkedthemawaybeforesayinginavoicebroken byfear,Godstruth,Idontwanttobealonerightnow. NOWTHATSHEWASsafelyinsideasmallbutcleanmotel room,Mollytriedtoorganizeherthoughts.Inordertokeep fromcollapsing,shehadto prioritizehermostimmediateneeds,whichwerefood, clothes,sleep,shower Oneglancedownatherself,andsheshuddered.Showerfirst, definitely.Nowthatshewasfree,shewasntabouttospend evenonemorenightsleeping inherownfilth.Andashungryasshewas,sherefusedtoeat withsuchdirtyhands. Musteringherflaggingcourage,sheturnedtoDare.Hewas

sodamnbig,andverygruff.Seeinghimwithouthisshirt whentheywerestillintheparkinglot shouldhavealarmedher;eveninthemoonlight,shed detectedseveralscarsoverhischest,ribcageandshoulders thatlookedlikehealedknifeand bulletwounds.Evennowthathewasdressedagain,doing nomorethansettlingintotheroom,helookedpowerful, withnoticeablestrength. Butafterbeingthreatenedendlesslyforninedaysbythe mostcorruptanimalsimaginable,Mollyknewfoulintent whenshesawit. Darewasntfoul.Shehadthefeelingheusedhisincredible strengthtoprotect,nottoinflictpain.Thoughhehadntbeen sentforher,hadnopromisesof paymentforhisefforts,hedrescuedherratherthanleave herbehind. Andnow,whetherherealizedityetornot,hewasstuck withher. Shewouldpayhimonceshegothisagreementtokeepher safe.Excuseme,please,butifIcouldimposefurther Look.Thebigmanturnedawayfromthetwinbedwhere hedsetabatteredleatherovernightbag.Enoughwiththe properbullshit.Youvebeenthrough hell,yes? Blueeyes,fringedbythethickestlashes,tookhermeasure. Thepullingofhisblackbrowsdrovehomejusthow disgustingherphysicalstatewasright now. Mollynodded.Absolutely.Helltimesten.Neverinher wildestimaginationandasmanycouldattest,her

imaginationcouldbeprettywildattimeshad sheenvisionedtheawfulscenarioshedsurvived. Butshehadsurvivedit.Andnowshehadtofigureouthow toproceedwhilestillprotectingherself. Idontneedyoutobeformal.Hesetthebottleofwateron thenightstandbyher.Idontneedyoutoputonagood front,either.Youreasmallwoman, probablynotweighingmorethanabuckten. Mollyglanceddownatherself.Shedalwaysweighedone twentyfive,butnowshejustdidntknow.Shehadlost weight.Butthatmuch? Yourehurt,Darecontinued,andhungry,tired, dehydratedandprettydamndirty. Absurdlyclosetotearsagain,Mollyscowled.Yourpoint? Ifyouwanttofallapart,feelfree.Isureashellwontjudge you,anditllstaybetweenus. HowkindthatDarewouldoffertokeepherconfidencesfor her.No,thankyou.Shehadntsurvivedthathelljustto crumpleupnow.Illbefine. Hefoldedmuscledarmsoveranequallymuscledchest. Beardshadowroughenedhisjaw.Hisknuckleslookedasif theydrecentlystrucksomethingor someone. Shesincerelyhopeditwasoneofthepigswhodtreatedher sobadly. Suityourself,hesaid.ButIneedyoutodrinkthatbottleof water,andthenanotherafterthat.Slowly. Right.Waterwouldbegoodifonlyherstomachwerentso jumpy. Andthephony,unaffectedacthasgottogo.

Freshangerwrungthroughheralreadyachingmuscles. Look,buster,Imnotgoingtoloseitnow,gotthat?She chuggedafewsipsofwaterand returnedthebottletothesmalltablebetweenthebeds. Thensheclutcheditforsupport.Herkneeswobbled;her voicewenthusky.Iveheldittogether thislong,andnotforyou,notforanyone,amIgoingtolet thosemiserablebastardsbreakmedown. OnebrowliftedinsurpriseasDarestudiedherforlong, silentmoments,andthenheshookhisheadwithannoyance. Sitdownbeforeyoufalldown. Shedidnttakeorderswell,butthistimeshegladlysat.It requiredallherwillpowernottosprawlbackonthebedand justfadeintooblivion.Butifshedid that,shedwakejustasdirty,anditturnedherstomachto eventhinkit. Darestoppedinfrontofher.Heexaminedthebottleofwater andmusthavebeensatisfiedsofar.Whatdoyouwantto dofirst? Shower.Sheneededtobecleanagain.Oh,God,Iwanta shower. Illgetitstartedforyou.Hehesitated.Canyoumanageon yourown? Herheartalmoststopped.Yes,ofcourse. Stillhedidntmoveaway.Hecroucheddowninfrontofher, andhispowerfulthighsstrainedthematerialoffaded denim.Thoseblueeyeswereeerily intenseashestudiedherface.Youresafewithme,Molly. IIknow.Shesensedthatmuch.Shejustdidnthavethe wherewithaltostartaskingquestionsyet.Priorities,

priorities. Ifyouneedhelp Idstaydirtyfirst.Shewasquitecertainaboutthat.Noway wouldsheinviteamantobatheher.Sheshudderedatthe thought. Hismouthflattened.Suityourself.Hestraightenedand startedtowardthetinybathroom.Whileyoureinthere,Im goingtorunacrossthestreettograb yousomethingtowear.Imguessingasizesix? Somethingtowear.Likeherownpersonalangel,hewould buyhercleanclothestoputonafterhershower. Godblesstheman. Thoseblastedtearsthreatenedagain,cloggingMollys throat,makinghernosefeelstuffy.Yes,shecroakedout aroundagiantlumpofemotion. Anythingsimplewouldbewonderful.Somethingformy feet,too,please.Sizeseven.Imnotpicky. Sheheardthewaterstart,andthroughtheopendoorshe sawDaresetouttowels,openthepackagedsoap,the shampooandconditioner. Soremarkablyconsiderate. Heremptystomachcrampedandrecoiled,butshecouldnt thinkoffoodjustyet.Shetriedalittlemorewater,knowing hewasright,thatshehadtoget somefluidsbackintohersystem. Movingwithasilentgraceuncommontoamansolarge,he camebackintotheroom.Illgetyouatoothbrush,too. Anythingelse? Thereweresomanythingssheneededthatshecouldnt fathomalistjustyet.Herdryandcrackedlipshurtwhenshe

lickedthem.Somethingblandto eat? Alreadythoughtofthat.Hepausedbythedoor.Yousure youllbeokayuntilIgetback? Afterwhatshedsurvived,nowaywouldsheriskherselfin anyway.Illbeverycareful.IfIgetdizzy,Illshutoffthe waterandjustsitinthetub. Reluctantstill,hestoodthere,andfinallyagreedwithanod. Dontputthechainonthedoor. Ashespoke,hewalkedovertothedesktoretrievehis belongings,includingabigblackgunandavery lethallookingknifethatfoldedtogether.Thegun wentintoaholsterathisback,fastenedtothewaistbandof hisjeans.Heslippedtheknifeintoapocket,thencoveredthe gunwiththehemofhisshirt.He treatedtheweaponsascasuallyashedidhiswalletandcell phone,fascinatingMolly. Itwouldmakehernervousjusttotoucheitherone. Hestoppedinfrontofheragain.Ifyoupassout,Iwanttobe abletogetinwithoutbreakinganythingandcausinga scene. Okay. Iwontbegonelong,hecautioned.Sodontlingerin there. Ifhedidntleavesoon,shedbeasleepbeforeshecouldhit theshower.No,Iwont. Usingtheedgeofafist,hebroughtherchinupsothatshe hadtolookathim.Youreweakerthanyourealize. Onthecontrary,shewasstrongerthanshedeverimagined. Buthisconcernwasnice,sosheonlyreiterated,Illbefine.

Frustrationpalpable,heranahandthroughshortbrown hair,noddedonceandwalkedout. Hedwantedtosaymoretoher,Mollyknew.Hedidnt understandherlackofquestions,heracceptanceofhimas herrescuer.Buthedidntpushher,and sheappreciatedhisrestraint.Rightnow,allshecould managewasthedirestofnecessities.Andthinkingthat Ittookalotofefforttodragherselfuptoherfeetagain,but shedidit.Theragged,tornandstainedshirtscameoverher headandwithsublime satisfactionshestuffedthemintothegarbagecanbythe desk.Neveragainwouldthosedisgustingscrapsofmaterial touchherbody. Shedbeendeniedunderwearofanykind,soremovingthe shirtslefthernaked.OneglancedownatherselfandMolly sawevidenceofherordealin placesshehadntconsidered.Sherememberedtherough treatment,beingjerked,shoved,hitHerbreathcaught. No,shewasawayfromtherenow,andshewouldntdwell onit. Anxiousforthelongdeniedcomfortofwarmwater,she steppedintotheshowersspray. Oh,heaven. Thoughhereverymuscletrembledandthemostpervasive weaknessdraggedather,neverhadsheappreciateda showermore.Latheringthesoapinto awashcloth,Mollyscrubbedallover,determinedtowash awaythedisgustshestillfelt. Shehadtohurrytofinishbeforethelastofherstrength waned.Alreadyshefeltfaint,sicktoherstomach,herknees

quaking. Lackofsleepprovidedaperpetualheadachethatburned behindhereyesandleftherhollow. Withherskinnowclean,sheopenedhermouth,filleditwith freshwater,swishedandspit,thenusedtheclothtoclean herteethasbestshecould. Shehadtoleanagainstthetiledwalltorestforaminute.Her headpoundedwithsomanyimpossibleproblemsforthe future.Butfornow,forthis moment,shewassafe. Safe.Therehadbeentimeswhenshedthoughtwhenshed beensurethattheywouldkillher.Theydtakengreat pleasureintauntingher,slappingher, keepingheruncertainandonedge.Sleephadcomeinonly fitfulspurts,becausesleeplefthervulnerabletotheir intentwhatevertheirintenthadbeen. Herhandsknottedintofists.Fearcurdledwitharageso brightitsustainedher.Shestruggledtofillherlungswith air,tobeatdowntherawpanicthathad accompaniedhersincebeingabducted. Somuchtothinkaboutbutfornow,shehadonlytoworry aboutfinishinghershower.Theneating. Andthensleepingwithoutthefearofneverwakingagain. Shedrewonemorebreathbeforepickinguptheshampoo withashakinghand.Somanytanglesknottedherhairthat shedecidedshedcutitafterit wascleanratherthanbrushthemout.Shelathered,rinsed, thenlatheredagain.Sherefusedtolookdownatthetubto seewhathadwashedoutofher hair.

Emptyingtheentiretinybottleofconditionerontoherhead, sheworkeditthrough,rinsed,andthenshehadnothing left.Nostrength.Noreserve.She couldntevendryherself.Shebarelygotatowelaroundher hairandanotheraroundherbody. Stumblingbackintothemainroom,Mollyhitthebedhard, snuggledinandliterallypassedout. CHAPTERTWO DARECAMEINQUIETLY,sawhercurledonthebedand frowned.Thetowelbarelycoveredher,andwithherknees pulledup,hewouldgetonehellofa peepshowifhemovedtothefootofthebed. Notthathewould.Inmanycaseshelackedscruples;itwasa hazardofthejob.Butwithwomen,withthiswoman,he wasntabouttotakeadvantage. Despiteherbravadoandcommonsensereactiontoher nightmare,hedneverseenanyonemoreemotionallyfragile. Besides,thelessinvolvementhehadwithher,unscrupulous orotherwise,thebetter.Heneededtofigureoutwhathad happenedtoher,andthequickest waytosafelyremoveherfromhiscare. Hedknownshewasspent,ontheedge,butthefactthatshe hadntevenpulledthecoversoverherselfprovedherlevel ofexhaustion. Morethananything,sheprobablyneededtoeat.Butshould hewakeherforthatwhenshealsoneededsleep? Hewasntafuckingbabysitter,butsincehedpersonally gottenheroutofMexico,hecouldntverywelljustdumpher somewhere.Byrescuingher,hehad

acceptedanimpliedresponsibility. Tryingnottorattlethebagsandjugglingthefoodwithhis otherpurchases,Dareclosedthedoorandlockedit.Aglance atthebedsideclockshowedthe timeat1:30a.m.Hedonlybeengoneahalfhour,tops. LuckilytheWalmartacrossthestreetstayedopen twentyfourhours.Hedfoundnotonlyclothesforher,but food,too.Dressingandfeedingherwouldgo alongwaytowardresolvinghermostpressingissues. Withbarelyasound,hestowedthedrinksinthetinyfridge andputhershareofthefoodintothemicrowavetokeep. Removinghiswallet,changeandcellphonefromhisjeans, heplacedthemneatlyonthedesk.Nexthetookouthisknife andtheGlock9mmhecarried, andsetthembesidehisotherbelongings.Hestretchedout hisknottedmuscles.Toomanyhourscrawlingoverrough ground,duckingforcoverand demolishingmenwithoutenoughsleeporfoodhadlefthim tenseandweary. Afterpullingachairoutfromtheroundtable,heopenedthe coveringonhispancakesandcoffee. Hedtakenonlyonebitewhenshestirred,sniffedtheairand drowsilyopenedhereyes.Dareturnedtowardher. Shegavehimadeercaughtintheheadlightslook. Hestudiedher,asmallbundlehuddledtightonthebed,face stillravagedandeyeswounded.Neverhadheseenawoman looksovulnerable. Heswallowedhisbiteand,soundingascasualashecould underthecircumstances,asked,Hungry? Shestaredback,thenstruggleduptooneelbow.Her

expressionchanged,thewarinesshiddenbeneaththat intrepidbravado.Starved.Literally. Withallthedirtremoved,herbigeyesdominatedhersmall features.Moremarksshowedonherfairskin,oneonher cheekboneandunderherlefteye, oneonherthroat,andadarker,angrierbruiseonherright shoulder. Darethoughtofmenhittingher,manhandlingher,and bonedeepdisgustignited.Hedespisedbulliesofanykind, butamanwhowouldhurtawoman wasatthetopofhislistofassholesthatneededalesson. Shebreatheddeeply,hereyesclosingandhernostrils flaring.Thatsmellssogood. Outofhisseatalready,Darefetchedherfood.Doyouwant tosithere,oreatinthebed? Shehesitated,lookingdownforamomentasifuncertainof herwelcome,notwantingtoinconveniencehim.Table please,butIshoulddressfirst. Allright.Hesetthefoodonthetableandopenedthebagof clothes,pullingoutafewTshirts,pantiesandapairof pulloncottonshorts.Youcanget morestufftomorrowifyoufeeluptoit.Somethingwarmer, maybe,andnicerfortheplaneride.Butfornow,Ifigured thiswouldfit. Shedidntlookattheclothes.Thearmsheleanedonbarely supportedher,andherbreathwentchoppywitheffort. Voiceweak,strained,shesaid,Imsorry,butIhavent eatenintoolongandImfeelingkindoffaint. Darestraightened,goingonalert.Wouldshepassouton him?

Ififyoucouldhelpmeintothebathroom,Illdressin there. Shit.Hedidnotwantherpassingoutalone,maybehitting herhead.Yeah,noproblem. Daremovedtothebedandslippedanarmbehindher,then drewhertoherfeet.Sheswayedintohim,onehand clutchingathisshirtandholdingonfor dearlife. Shemadenoattempttostepaway.Hedidntaskherto. Whatwouldyouliketodo? IcantShechoked,clearedherthroat,andhervoicewas solowhebarelyheardherwhenshesaid,Thisis embarrassing,buttheshowerShe swallowed.IthinkImdepleted. Easingherbackontothebed,Dareknewhedhavetobe firmtogetheragreement.Okay,Molly,listenup.Hekept histoneasimpersonalaspossible. Thisisntabigdeal.Icandressyou.Icanevenfeedyou. Sherolledinherlipswithembarrassment,ahabithed alreadynoticed. ItsnothingIhaventdonebefore,helied. Thatbroughtherdarkeyesuptohis. Damn,buthereyescouldmeltamanssoul.Iminthe personalprotectionbusiness.YourenotthefirstwomanIve rescued.Yourenotevenintheworst shape.Anotherlie.Mostwomenheretrievedwerefoundin thefirstfortyeighthoursbeforetoomuchdamagehadbeen doneortheywerentfoundat all.Okay? Stillwithhergazelockedonhis,shenodded.

Goodgirl.Hegrabbedtheclothesfromthebag.Hewasnt reallydiscomfitedbythetask,buthedjustassoongetpast it. Takingclothesoffawoman,yeah,hehadplentyofpractice withthat. Dressingtheneardeadnotsomuch. Pantiesfirst,okay?Hestillhadnoideawhathadbeendone toher,howshemighthavebeentormentedorused.Ifitwas sexualinnature,thenthis wouldbedoublyhardonher.Welltakethisniceandslow, andifatanypointyoufeelpanicky,justtellme. Iwontpanic. Helookedupather.Yeah,well,Idjustassoonnotget kickedinthefaceagain. Forasplitsecond,hethoughthesawaslightsmileonher bruisedmouth.Thenshelookedaway.No,Iwontdothat again. AsDarekneltdowntoworkhersmallfeetintothelegsof theveryplaincottonunderwear,henoticedmorescrapes andbruises.Aftersheate,heddig outthefirstaidkitandpatchherup. Whenhehadthepantiesuptoherknees,hetookherelbow andpulledhertoherfeet.Holdontomyshoulders. Shewassomuchshorterthanhim,maybefiveseventohis sixthree,that,whilehestoodupright,holdinghisshoulders prettymuchstretchedherout. Hebenttothetaskandsheleanedagainsthim.Shewas surprisinglysoftforsomeonesothin.Andshesmelledgood now,cleanlikeshampooand soapandwarm,gentlewoman.

Inashrill,nervousvoice,sheasked,So,whodidyourescue? Otherthanme? Afriend.Almostlikeasister.Herthighsweretrim,firm.He didhisbesttolookawayashedraggedtheunderwearup underthedamptowel.His knucklesdraggedagainsthersoftbottom,abottomthat wasntasskinnyashedthought. Notthathercurvesmattered.Withhershiveringagainst him,hefeltmorelikeadamneddoctorthanamanwhod beenwithoutsexformonths.Nowthe shirt. Hetookthedamptoweloffherheadandtosseditaside.Her hairfellintangledwethankstoherbareshoulders.Herneck waslongandgraceful,herchin stubborn. Andshelookedreadytodropwithbothweaknessand degradation.Shewasnotawomanusedtoneedinghelp,he couldtell,especiallynotwith somethingsopersonal. Feelbetterbeingclean?Ifhekepthertalking,maybethis wouldbeeasierforherandforhim. Youhavenoidea.Darepulledtheshirtdownoverher head,andassoonasshepoppedfree,sheadded,Doyou haveanyscissors? Hehadtopracticallyliftherarmstogetthemthroughthe armholes.Becauseabrahadbeenwellbeyondhim,hed boughttheshirtbigandloose.Itfit overthebundledtowelshehadwrappedaroundherself. Why? Iwasgoingtocutit.

It?Hereachedbeneaththeshirtandpulledawaythebulky towel.Surprisestilledhimforonlyamoment.Dirt,distress andinjuryhadhiddenit,butMolly Alexanderhadonehellofarack. AndhefeltlikeagradeAprickfornoticing. Myhair.Notquitedefeated,butclose,shesatbackonthe bedagain.Facepaleandmouthtightwithstrain,shekept hershouldersback,herbare kneesandanklessqueezedtogether.TheresnowayIllget thetanglesout.AndtruthfullyIjustdontcareenoughto try. Shewasnothisproblem,Dareremindedhimself,andher hairsureashelldidntmattertohim.Butdamnit,for whateverreason,hedidntwantherto giveupnow,notonanything. Letsworryaboutittomorrow,okay?Takingherarm again,hegotheruprightandhelpedherstepintotheshorts. Decentlydressed,clean,and marginallyrested,shemadequiteapicture. Sortofcute,butstillverybedraggledandwearied,notto mentionabused. Dareledhertothetable.Yousureyoudontwanttodothis inbed? Ahoarselaughhuffedout.Ivebeentiedtoadisgusting, filthymattressforninedays,unabletosituporwalk oranything.Trustme,Idratherbeatthe table. Theimagesickenedhim.Gotcha. Hesetjuiceinfrontofher.Trytodrinkitall,okay?Itll help.Thenheopenedthemicrowaveandpulledouther

stillwarmcupofsoup. Iknowthepancakesprobablysmellgood,andtheres enoughforyouifyouwanttogivethemago,butIfiguredit mightbetoomuch Itwouldbe.Shedrankalittleofthejuice,waited,then dranksomemore.ItsbeensolongsinceIveeaten,Ihave totakeitsloworIknowIllbesick. AndIdratherbebeatenthanbarfagain. Again? Herexpressionflattenedwithmemories.Asiftheshockand humiliationstillburnedher,shedidntlookathimasshe explained. Atfirsttheybroughtmecorntortillasandsomekindof strongalcohol.IwasafraidofwhattheyddoifIgotdrunk, soIwouldntdrinkit.Butthentheygave methenastiestlookingwater,likesomethingoutofamud puddle.Ididnttrustthat,either,andtheytriedtoinsist,but Ijustcouldnt.Hershoulders hunchedalittleasshedrewintoherself.Hervoicelowered. Thatswhentheystarteddruggingme. Daresetasidehisfork.Hearingevenasmidgeofwhatshed gonethroughmadeitnearimpossibletostaydistanced;he wantedtogobackandkill peoplealloveragain. Afterthat,Icouldntseemtoresistwhentheytoldmeto drinkit,butIgotsick.Herhandsfisted,andherentire smallbodytightened.Itsnotlikethere wasanyplaceforthat.Imean,notabathroomorevena bucket.IIsoiledpartofthesmallareatheydgivenme,and tossedupthepillstheydforced

downmythroat. Jesus.Toimaginebeingawomanalone,afraidandsick, stuckinsuchanuntenablepositionhehiditfromher,but itenragedhim. Theystoodoverme,furious,barkingatmeinalanguageI didntunderstand,butIgottheirmeaningloudandclear, andIcleaneditupthebestIcould withtheragstheythrewatme.Afterthat,theybarelyfed me.Usuallyonlyonceaday,butatleastthewaterthey broughtwascleaner,Iguesstoavoida repeatofthings. Motherfuckers. Butthenyesterdayandtodaytheybroughtmenothingat all.Idontknowwhy. Sheleftoutalotofdetails,butDaredidntpushher.He couldntbegintoimaginehowwretcheditdbetogetill whileclosedinthathot,airlesslittletrailer. Thefeelingofhelplessnesswassomethinghednever experienced,butheknewitdbedifferentforaman. Anywomanheldcaptivewouldbeconstantlyunderthefear ofmorethanjustphysicalabuseorneglect.Shedbeterrified ofrape. Settingthesoupandaspooninfrontofher,Darebroached thattopic.Theymanhandledyoualot. Shesaidnothing,justtastedhersoup,groaned,andtastedit again. MollyifyouwerehurtIdiot.Shewassohurtthatit painedhimtothinkofit.Darestartedover.Thatis,ifyou werehurtinwaysthatarenteasyforme tosee,thenatriptothehospitalwouldbeagoodidea.

Witheachbiteofsoup,shelookedmorelethargic,asifthe nourishmenteasedaterribleacheandallowedtirednessto takeoveragain. Molly? Icant.Shetookanotherswallow,buthereyeswere gettingheavyascolorseepedbackintohercheeks.Cant what? Anotherswallow.Thesecondstickedby.Icantcanttalk aboutthisnow,cantgiveyoudetails,andIcantgotothe hospital.Sheliftedhergazetohis. Please,ifwecouldtalkaboutitinthemorning,Idbe grateful. Damnit,hedidntwanttoberesponsibleforherhealth.He stoodtopace,tryingtodecide. Dare? Heturnedbacktoher,lefteyetwitching,jawtight. Iwasntraped.Iswear. Somethinginhimeased.Hetriedtoreadthetruthinher eyes,butsawonlybleakresistancethere.Herubbedhis bristlyjaw.Youwouldtellmeifyou weresexuallyabused? IfIhadbeenIdontknow.IdontknowhowIdfeel. Despiteherordeal,herchinlifted.ButIwasnt. Darecontinuedtostudyher.Hecouldreadmostpeople,but thiswomanhadsomuchemotioninherface,andsomany secretsinhereyes,hejust wasntsure. Thatthatisntwhattheywantedwithme. Rememberinghowshedbeenseparatedfromtheother women,keptunclean,neglectedinsteadofprimedhe

believedher. Thatswhatshewantedtotalkabouttomorrow,herealized. Henodded.Allright. Shestartedtostand,albeitshakily,andDaresaid,Wait.Let meturndownthebed. Heprepareditforher,muchlikehewouldforachild,then camebacktoher.Doyouneedthebathroomfirst? Pale,trembling,sheshookherhead.No. Knowingthatdecisionwaslikelydeterminedbyherinability tomakeitthereonherown,Daretookthechoiceawayfrom her.Ofcourseyoudo.Afterall, hedbeenpushingfluidsonher,andshedobligedhim. Liftingherup,hecarriedherintothesmalltiledroom.She weighednexttonothingandfeltinsubstantial,delicate,in hisarms. Hesetherdownnexttothejohn.Okay? Shegrabbedthesinkandheldon.Yes. Hardly,butheddoneasmuchashecouldwithoutcausing herfurtherembarrassment.Ifyouneedme,Illberight outsidethedoor.Justletmeknow whenyourefinished.Helefthertoit. Leaningagainstthewallbesidethedoor,thinkingofwhat hedlearned,andwhathehadnt,Darewaitedforher. Secondslaterheheardherflushand thenrunwaterinthesink. Thedooropened. Eyesmoreclosedthanopen,shufflingalonglikeazombie, Mollymovedpasthimtothebed.Darerushedtoholdher arm,tosteadyherandsteerherto thesheets.

Sorry,shemumbledassheliterallytumbledtothe mattress.Sotired. Worrygnawedonhimagain.Shouldhedamnherobjections andtakehertothehospitalanyway?Alreadyshelookedto beasleep.Heknewfirsthand howexhaustion,especiallywhenamplifiedbyhungerand dehydration,couldwearyabodyandsoul. Seeingherthere,lookingpeacefulforachange,hemadeup hismind.Afewmorehoursshouldnthurt.Ifshewasnt steadieraftersleeping,hedinsist shegetcheckedoutbyaphysician. Beforehethoughtbetterofit,Daresmoothedbackherhair. Itwassothickthatithadntdriedmuch,butawetheadwas theleastofherworries. Hepulledthesheetandblanketuptoherchin,andheard hersigh.Restup,MollyAlexander.Inthemorningwellsort thingsout. Noanswer. Formorethanaminute,Darestareddownather,wondering whathewasgoingtodowithher.Shedheldittogetherwith anadmirableironwilland unwaveringdetermination.Despiteherhorrificordeal,shed beenreasonable,practicalandintelligent. Butitwaswhatshehadntbeenthattoldhimevenmore. Shehadntbeenanxioustoreporttothepolice,hadnteven lookedathisgunorthebigknifehecarried,andshehadnt wantedtocallanyone. ThatwasafirstforDare.Itwashisexperiencethatmenand womenalike,whenrecoveredfromadangeroussituation, hadsomeonetheywantedto

speaktoASAP,someonetheywantedtoreassure,orhave reassurethem. NotMolly. Whatamysteryshewas. Asefficientlyashecould,Darespreadoutherhaironthe pillowsoitddryquicker.Valuingorderinallaspectsofhis life,hetooktimetotidytheroom andgetridoftheemptyfoodcontainers. Heputthegunandknifeunderhispillow.Theymadea familiarlumpthatgavehimaspecificpeaceofmindneeded inhislineofwork. Afterstrippingdowntohisboxers,heneatlyfoldedhis clothesandputthemawayinhisduffelbag,keptonthe othersideofthebed.Withonemore glanceoutatthestillquietparkinglot,hedrewtheheavy shades,puttingtheroomindarkness,andcrawledunderthe blankets.Theagedairconditioner hummedandwhistledasitsentcoolairtoswirlaroundthe room;hedbeentoomanyhourswithoutrest. Withinminutes,hefellintoalightsleep. Hourslater,ashort,gutturalsoundofpanicdrewhimfroma vaguedream.Hehadhisguninhishandandwasonhisfeet beforethesoundhadfaded. HEARTPUNCHING,stomachcramping,Mollyjerkedupright inthebed.Herhandsballedintofistsandherthroatburned fromthescreamthatalmost escaped.Almost.Someoneloomednexttoher,someonebig. Molly?

Sheknewthatvoice.Stilltingedwithpanic,shetookquick inventoryofhersurroundings.Theunfamiliarbeddidnt crawlwithbugs,andtheusualstench ofunwashedbodies,fearandsicknessdidntpervadetheair. Realitycrashedbackin,andwithitshame,mortificationand sadness.Shegasped,blindlyreachingout.Dare?Herhand hitsomething,maybeahard thigh. Yeah,justme.Hesetsomethingheavyonthenightstand, andthenhisbigbodydippedthemattressandhishand touchedhershoulder.Baddream? Morelikebadmemories,butshedidntwanttogointothat rightnow.Herbreathshudderedin.Yes.ImsosorryIwoke you. Youreokaynow? IWhatcouldshesay?Thatshedneverbeokayagain? Unacceptable,becausethatwouldmeantheydwon, whoevertheywere.Yes.NowIam. Fearcontinuedtoripthroughherinagonizingwaves.Im sorry. Enoughwiththeapologies,okay? Hisgruffvoicesomehowreassuredher.Shenoddedinthe darkness,strugglingtogetherbearings.Ithought Thatyouwerebackthereagain?Cautiously,alittle awkwardly,hedrewheragainsthim.Dontworryaboutit. Itsgoingtotakeyouawhiletoshakeit off. Thenheputanotherbottleofwaterinherhand. Anearhystericallaughbubbledup,andshebarely repressedit.Shakeitoff?Isthatwhathewoulddo?

Probably.Hewassomuchstronger,somuchmorecapable thanshe. Shedutifullydranksomewater,thenhandedthebottleback tohim.Hesetitaside,butthenpulledherclose. Hercheekmetthebareskinofhisupperchestandfitneatly againstthenotchofhisshoulder.Somuchheatemanated fromhim.Hesmelledgood,too, cleanandpure.Andhefeltevenbetter,likestrength,safety. Herrescuerhadnothingincommonwiththefilthy, depravedanimalswhohadimprisonedher,whohadlikely beenhiredtodowhatwithher? Mollycouldhearhiseven,calmheartbeat,andithelpedto slowherracingheart.Otherthanhisinitial,probably automaticgestureofcomfort,Daredidnt touchher.Oneofhishandsrestedlightlyonhershoulder, unmovingbutofferingtheknowledgethatshewasnolonger aloneorindanger. Dare? Hmm? Heseemedperfectlycomfortableintheirpresentposition, asifhedidthissortofthingallthetime. Mollywishedshefeltthesame.Neverinherlifehadshe askedforcomfortfromanotherperson.Forher,thiswasall veryawkward,butbasicneed,the needtosurvive,drovehernow.WouldyoumindifIjust stayedlikethisforafewminutes? Noproblem.Asifinaffirmation,hecoastedhishandup anddownherback,thenupagain,totangleinherhair.At leastyourhairismostlydrynow. Anotherstrangling,semiironiclaughalmostslippedout.

Yeah,Ivegotthatgoingforme. Hewassilentamoment,thensaid,Ididntthinktoask earlier,butdoyouneedanyaspirinoranything? Mollyshookherhead.Imnotsurewhatthepillswerethat theyforcedmetoswallow,butIdrathernottakeanything elseforawhile. Theywereprobablysomekindofhallucinogen.Ormaybe tranqs. Remindedofhowthepillshadmadeherfeel,shestiffened, pushedbackfromhimalittletolookupathisbarelyvisible face.Idetestbeingoutofcontrol. Hewentcuriouslystill.Now? No,whentheyweredopingme.Sherememberedthelack ofcontroloverhersluggishlimbs,howherminddredgedup suchridiculous,vagueandmisty dreams.Everythingwassurreal,implausible,insubstantial. Idontdrink,andInever,evertookdrugs.Ivenevereven smokedpot.Andthentohavethem forcemeItwasawful.Whywouldanyoneeverdrug themselvesonpurpose? Herelaxedagain.Noidea. Shebelievedhim.Darewasamanwhoenjoyedbeingin charge.Hewouldntbluntthatabilityforthesakeofkicksor aquickhigh. Moretoherselfthantohim,Mollywhispered,Ilikebeing me,notaloopyversionofme. Hesaidnothingtothat. Needingtotalk,todriveawaytheremnantsofthatdream, sheagainlookedupathim.TheotherwomenYousaid

yousavedone,buttherewere othersthere,too.Whathappenedtothem? Fourofthemwereapparentlylocal,becauseassoonasI freedthemandtoldthemitwasclear,theytookoff. Ihopetheyreallright. Heshrugged.Theyseemedtoknowrightwherethey wantedtogo. ThosemenDamnit,shehaddifficultyfinishingthoughts, muchlesssentences.Theyweresocruel,tauntingthe women,pawingthem. Hismusclesseemedtobulge.Theblondwoman.They pawedher? Icyangersoundedinhistone.Sometimes,butIgotthe impressionshewastoovaluabletoabuse.Theysaidshed bringalotofmoney.NowMolly soothedhim,clutchinghisbigshoulder.Shestheoneyou saved?Theoneyousaidislikefamily? Yes. Sheputhercheekagainsthischestagain.Whereisshe now? Hishugwasautomatic,forthemboth.Withherbrother. Safe. Safe.Suchastrangeconcept,butMollynowknewthatno onewaseverreallysafe.Imglad.Shessoyoung.His warmthseepedintoher,makingher drowsyagain.Itriedtalkingtoher,butshewastooafraid. Lookingdownather,heasked,Andyouwerent? Iveneverinmylifeknownthatkindoffear.Thedarkand quietofthesmallroom,thecasualnessofhistouch,madeit easiertotalk.Dare,canItellyou

something? Heshifted,almostlikehewassettlinginforsomething monumental.Yes. Howtoexplainit?Aprisonerwasaprisonerbutshed beenimprisoneddifferently.Iwasntliketheothers. Ratherthanquestionhermeaning,hejustsaid,Iknow. Didhe?Thosegirlswereintheirlateteensorveryearly twenties,andtheywereallstunning.Theywerekeptonone sideofthetrailer,withmore opportunitytobathe.Theyweregivencleanclothes. Ridiculouslyrevealingclothes,butstillAndtheyhadmore food,morewater.Itwasalmostlikethe jerkswantedthemtolookgood.Healthy,Imean. Yeah,Iknow. ButMollyfrownedatherownwords.Imnotsayingthey haditanyeasierthanIdid.Captivityiscaptivity,andwe wereallmiserable. But? Sheswallowed.ButImthirtyyearsold.Shetwistedto lookupathim.IknowImplain.AndevenifIdidntalready knowit,Imnotstupid. Sheheardsomethinginhistonewhenheagreed.No,youre farfromstupid. Theydidntwantmetosell,liketheydidtheothers. Asifhedalreadycometothatconclusionhimself,hesaid, No,theydidnt.Butthenwhydidtheytakeyou?Doyou know?Didtheysayanything? Theyhadsaidplenty,mostofitinSpanish.Ivegoneoverit againandagain,andIthinkIthinksomeonemusthave paidthemto.

Inthequietsecurityofthatsmallmotelroom,shecounted theirbreaths,waitingforDaretoreact.Bysmalldegrees,his musclesagainbunchedand flexed. Buthisholdremainedgentle. Whenhespoke,hesoundedmatteroffact,asifhebelieved herwithoutfurtherexplanation.Who? Mollysqueezedhereyesshut,hatingtherealityofwhather lifehadbecome.Thatstheconundrum,isntit?Ihaveno ideawhoIcantrustanymore. Hishandsmoothedoverherhair,thencuppedthebackof herskull.Doyouthinkyoucangobacktosleepnow? Notifshehadtosleepalone.Hedging,sheasked,Whattime isit? Doesntmatter,doesit?Werenotonascheduleyet. Butshehatedtofurtherinconveniencehim.Hehadntbeen paidtocomeafterher.Hedprobablyrescuedherwiththe thoughtofdroppingheronthe othersideoftheborder,someoneelsesproblemtodeal with. Unfortunately,shehadnooneelserightnow.Doyouhavea flighttocatch? Beforeheanswered,heurgedherbackdowninthebed.Her headsankintothesoftpillow,andthecleansheets,though cheapandscratchy,smelled good.Hestayedcloseasheallbuttuckedherin. Sheshouldhavebeenalarmed,havingamanbendingover her,especiallyamanofDaressizeandobviousstrength. Instead,shefeltmoreateasethanshehadsincebeing grabbedandstuffedintothebackofanoldvanrightinfront

ofherownapartmentbuilding.She doubtedthequaintcommunityinsouthernOhiowouldever againfeelboringtoher. Daresmoothedthecoversoverhershoulders.WhenImon amissionlikethis,Icantmakeplanstoofarinadvance.If anythinghadgonewrong,ifI hadntbeenabletogetAlanioutoftheresoeasily,orifshed alreadybeenmoved,thenIdstillbetrackingher. Youwouldnthavegivenuponfindingher? Never. Theunwaveringconvictioninthatonewordreassuredher. AlaniwasluckytohavesomeonelikeDarecaringforher. Howdidyouknowwheretolookfor her? Hemovedtoherside,andwhenMollythoughthedleavethe bedleaveherheinsteadproppedhisbackagainstthe headboard.Afterstretchingout hislonglegs,hesaid,Ivebeeninthisbusinessalongtime. Howlong?Youcantbemucholderthanme. Thirtytwo,soIvebeenatitformorethantenyears. Fascinating.Mollyfoldedahandunderhercheekandgot comfortable.Youstartedyoung. Withashrug,hesaid,Itsuitsme. Adrenalinejunkie?sheguessed. AndacontrolfreakwhichmeansIreallyunderstandhow youdetestedbeingsopowerless.Idhavehatedit,too. Buthewouldnthavebeensohelplessagainstthem. Somehow,MollythoughtDarewouldhavefoundawayto notonlyescape,buttowipethecretinsout forgood.

Hetookhersilenceforinterest,whichwasokaybecauseshe foundhimintriguing.Andlisteningtohimkeptherfrom stewingoverherownawful predicament. Imobsessiveaboutdetails,hetoldher.Thatsmademe reliableenoughtocultivatecontactseverywhere,butMexico istheeasiest.Forafee,the coyotescanusuallygivemeinformationIcantuncover otherwise. Coyotes?Youmeanthepeoplewhosmuggleillegalaliens intothecountry? Darenodded.Yeah,buttheyrealsousefulwhenyouneed helpgettingbackoutofTijuana.Itsasadfactthatinmany areashumantraffickingisntthat muchofasecret,soplentyofpeopleareusuallyintheloop aboutnewacquisitions. ShethoughtoftheyoungCaucasiangirlwhodbeenheldin thetrailerwithher.YourfriendAlanihadveryunique coloring. Henodded.Thatmadeiteasierforotherstorememberher, butnotthatmanygottoseeher.Theyweresavingherfora bigsale,Imsure.Wretched, horriblemen,toplansuchathingforayounggirl.Shehated them,allofthem. Nowthathereyeshadadjustedtothedarkness,Mollycould makeoutDaresprofile.Sherememberedthatthunkright beforehedjoinedherinthebed. Youhaveagunwithyou. Onthenightstand,heconfirmed.AGlock9mm.Doesit botheryou?

Sheshookherhead. Whenhesaid,Good,sherealizedthathecouldseeher,too. MayIseeit? Youvealreadyseenit. Imeanholdit. Hemadeasoundthatcouldhavepassedforhumor.Hell, no. Well.Mollydidntknowifsheshouldbeoffendedornot. Thenshethoughtofthoseawfulmen.Haveyouevershot anyone? Withnohesitation,Daresaid,Yes. Herheartpumpedhard.Shelickedherlips,drewabreath. Didyoushootthemenwhowereguardingthetrailer? Helookedatheragain.Aftersomeconsideration,heasked, Why? Hervoicesoundedmorerawthansheintended,butMolly washelplesstostatethingsanydifferently.Theyrebrutal beastswhotakepleasureinhurting women. Inhurtingyou,heagreedwithquietsympathy. Hernosestuffedup.Herthroattightened.They Oh,God,itwasalmostimpossibletotalk.Hervoicekept breaking,goinghigher,weaker.ButDaredidntprompther, didntrushher.Hejustwaitedin supportivesilence. Theywantedtomakemecry.Theywantedtomakeme beg.Shesniffed,drewabreath.Justforsport. Withoutaword,asiftheykneweachotherwell,hepulled herupagainsthischestandputhischintothetopofher head.Afterafewseconds,hesaid,

Youknow,Molly,ifIcould,Idkillthemforyouagain. Shejerked,thenwhisperedinawe,Again? Yeah. Dizzinessassailedher.Soyoudidkillthem? Damnright.Helookeddownather.Theyneededkilling. Yes,theydid.Themenweregone;theycouldnthurther, oranyoneelse,everagain.Asthetensioneasedoutofher, herheavyeyelidssankdown, almostclosing. Greatreliefcamefromtheknowledgethattheyweregone forever. Dawnbegantocreepthroughtheheavydrapes,andforthe firsttimeindays,Mollygreeteditwithhope.Dare? Yeah? Shehuggedhimtight.Thankyou. CHAPTERTHREE WHILESIPPINGCOFFEEandwatchinghersleep,Darewent overpossiblescenariosfortheday.Firstontheagenda,he hadtodecidewhattodowith Ms.MollyAlexander. Hecouldntjustdumpher,becausesheshouldntbealone rightnowanddidntseemtohaveanyonetogoto.She refusedthepolice,notthattheycould beofmuchhelpanyway.So,thenwhattodowithher? Itwasntlikehecouldkeepher. Hewantedtogetbackhometocheckonhisgirls,and thinkingthat,heliftedhiscellphoneandputinacall.Chris Chapey,hispersonalassistant, answeredonthethirdring.

Hey,Dare.Iwanttohearsomegoodnews. Darerolledhiseyes.Nomatterhowhetried,hecouldntget Christoanswerthephoneproperly.Sure,Chrisalways checkedthecallerIDfirst,sohe knewitwasDare,butstillAlaniiswithTracenow. FuckingA.Perfectnews.Butthen,withmoresensitivity: Shesokay,isntshe? Dependsonyourdefinitionofokay,Iguess.ButIthink shellrecoup.ItsforcertainthatTracewontlethertake anothervacationwithouthimnotfora hellofalongtime.OruntilAlanihadamanofherownto keephersafe. CantsayasIblamehim,Chrissaid.Iassumethatyougot throughthingsunscathed? HeglancedtowardMolly,asleepinthebed.Abedtheyd sharedintheplatonicsense.Moreorless. So,whenareyougoingtobehome? Notsureyet.IhaveaSuddenly,asifshedfelthisgaze, Mollyseyesopened.Theywerepuffyfromsleepinghard, andalittleunfocuseduntilthey lockedonhis.Sheagaingavehimthatstartled,caughtlook. Acomplication. Showingnoreactiontothat,Mollyrolledtoherbacka momentandyawned,thenpushedbackthecoversandsat up.Shegingerlystretchedandwinced. Beneaththenowwrinkledclothes,Darenotedonceagain thatalthoughshewasthin,shestillhadanabundanceof curves. Howthehellhadheevermissedthat?Notthathedbeen checkingherout,butitwasalittlehardtomissnowthathe

hadnoticed. Shouldersslumped,Mollysatontheedgeofthebedfora minute,justbreathingandmaybetakingpersonalstockof achesandpains.Hewaswillingto betshehadplentyofthem. Finally,withadeepsigh,shestoodandpaddedbarefootfor thebathroom.Henotedsomedefinitecurvesintheback, too,definedbeneaththebody huggingshortsandlooseTshirt. Shelookedlesswobblytoday,sothesleepandfoodmust havedonethetrick. Whensheshutthedoor,DarerealizedthatChriswastalking tohimandhehadntheardaword. Ineedtogo. Chrissnorted.Nobeingcryptic,bossman.Ifyourein trouble Imnot. Thenwhatsthecomplication? NothingIcanthandle.Hehoped.Everythingwillbefine. Somehowhedmakethattrue.IllcallyoulaterwhenI finalizemyplans. Mollyemergedfromthebathroom,herfacedamp,herthick, tangledhaireverywhere.Buttoday,ratherthanlookinglike awreck,herwildhairjustlooked freshlytumbled. Shecameovertosniffthecoffee,liftedacupinhopeful question,andDarenodded. Shemouthedaheartfelt,Thankyou. Inthebrightsunlight,herbrowneyeslookedlesswary,but thebruisingunderandaroundthemhaddeepened.

Shit. DaregavehisattentionbacktoChris.Givethegirlssome hugsfromme. Imkeepingthemhappy,dontworry. Heneverdid.HetrustedChriswithhislifeandhisgirls. Later. DareclosedthephoneandeyedMolly.Sheavoidedhisgaze, whichhefoundcurious.Howdoyoufeel?Anddont sugarcoatit. Herlipscurvedinthebriefestsmile.Gladtobealiveand free.Butalsoachy,stillalittletired.Andstarved.She peeredatthearrangementoffood.Not toimpose,butisanyofthisupforgrabs? Ivealreadyfinished,sohelpyourself.Hewatchedhersit andopenupallthreecontainers,findingscrambledeggs, baconandtoast. Hereyeswidened,thennarrowedwithhunger.Itsan absolutefeast. Hardlythat.Hermoodthismorningthrewhim.Hehadnt expectedhertobechipper.Ormaybeitwasmore complacent.Eitherway,hedbeen preparedfortheshocktotakehold. Instead,shebehavedasifnothingoutoftheordinaryhad happened. Forme,thisisthemostdeliciouslookingfoodIveseenin fartoolong,sothankyou.Anddontworry,Ireallydohave moneytorepayyouforeverything. Justkeepatallyofitall,ifyoudontmind.Mymathskills havealwaysbeenlackingandIdonthaveanotepador pen.Sheglancedupathim.Atleast,

notwithme. Discolorationsinblue,purple,greenandblackmarredher skinfromhereyesdowntohertoes,andshespokeasifthe costofadinerbreakfast mattered. Howlonghaveyoubeenup?Shetastedtheeggs,toreopen asaltandpepperpacket,seasonedthem,thentastedagain. Witharollofhereyes,she said,Oh,Nirvana. Dareenjoyedherexpressionofgreedybliss.Iwokeafew hoursago.Stillatyourside,withyousqueezedupagainst me.Hedawakenedwithwomen manytimes,butneverawomanlikeher,neverawomanin hersituation. Shedbeendeadtotheworld,andstillsheclungtohimso tightlythathehadtopryherloosebeforeslidingoutofthe bedandawayfromher.Afterleaving her,henotedthefadingofherwarmthagainsthisskin,and howherscentstillclungtohim. Disturbing. Whattimeisit?Shebitintothebaconandchewedwith delight. Noon. Wow.Lateforyou,Ibet.Hergazeflashedupwithahintof humor.Youbeingsuchanorderly,organizedguy.She emphasizedthatwithapeekaround theroom.Hedalreadymadehisbed,becausehehatedthe clutterofrumpledblanketsandreallydidntwant housekeepingaroundhisstuff. Dareshrugged.Usuallyherosebeforedawn,buthed

neededtherest,too.Leaningforward,hetriedforanoteof seriousness.So,Molly,whatdowe haveontheagendafortheday? Shepausedwithanotherbiteofbaconalmosttohermouth. Herhanddroppedbacktothetable.Well,Ivebeenthinking aboutthat. Whileyouwereinthebathroomfor,ohthirtyseconds? Therestofthetimeshedeithersleptortalked.Shehadnt reallyhadtimetoponderthings. Herchinlifted.Actually,sinceIwokeupinyourbackseat andrealizedyouwerentwiththebadguys,Ivebeen consideringwhattodonext. Amazing.Hebelievedher,though.Hehadntknownherlong, buthedalreadyfiguredoutthatshewasthattypeof nononsense,getittogether,makea planwoman.Cometoanyconclusions?Hewasdyingto know. Thatdepends.Shefidgetedamoment,thentiltedherhead athim.Areyouexpensive,Dare? Nowwhatwassheupto?Hecrossedhisarmsandsatback. Very. So,thatmeansyourereallygood? Hiseyesnarrowed,andhesaidagain,Very. Mullingthatover,shenoddedacceptance.Imnotcertain whattypeofworkyoudo,butIknowyoucarryaknifeanda prettybiggun,andthatyoure darnedgoodatgettinginandoutofdiresituations. Alltrueenough. ItrustwhatIknowofyou,andyoudidrescuemewithno incentiveotherthanthatitwastherightthingtodo,soI

washopingmaybeIcouldhireyou? Veryunsureofherself,sheendedwithaclearquestion, hopingforhiscooperation. Darestudiedher,alittleastounded,butalsocurious.But again,itprovednearlyimpossibletoknowwhatwasinthat quickmindofhers.Sofarjustabout everythingshedsaidordonehadbeenunexpected. Todowhat,exactly?Ifshethoughthewasamurdererfor hire,hedjusthavetosetherstraight.Yes,hedkilled,but onlywhennecessarytoprotectan innocent.Neverincoldblood.Neverformoney. Hewasaslawabidingasthenextguywhenhecouldabide thelaw. Leaningforwardinherseat,Mollyputherelbowsonthe tableandstaredhimintheeyes.Someonewantedmehurt, Imsureofthat.Maybeheeven wantedmekilled.Ineedtoknowwhoheis,orIllneverbe abletorelax.Untilthatpersonisrevealed,Illneed protection.Hergazedippedoverhisbody, herlipsrolledin,andshehurriedherattentionbacktohis face. Sheletoutaraggedbreath.Godstruth,Dare,Ithinkyoure amanwhocouldprotectanythingoranyoneifyousetyour mindtoit. Damnrightbuthewasntyetreadytocommithimself. TherewasalothedidntknowaboutMollyAlexander.He startedwiththemostobvious.Yousaid he.Youthinkamansetyouup? Hermouthtwisted.Actually,thatwasjustafigureof speech.Ididntmeantoleaptoanyconclusions.Itcouldbe

anyone. Nokidding.Doyouhaveenemies,Molly? Shelaughedwithanearhystericaledge,butshequickly regroupedandpickedupsometoast.Allthingsconsidered, apparentlyIdo. Hecouldntarguethatpoint.Themorehedthoughtaboutit, themorehertheorymadesense.Someonemusthave wantedhertaken,becauseshe wasnttheyounghelplessinnocentusuallygrabbed. Buthewantedtohearherreasoning.Whatmakesyouso sureyouwerentjustarandomgrabgoneawry? Besidestheobviousunsuitabilityforthestandardbeing gorgeous,stacked,youngerwomen?Anewedgeshowedin herdemeanor,arenewedfear andanger.Iwasnttreatedthesame.Notevenclose.They leeredattheothers,sawthemascommodities,butthey mostlyjustwantedtotauntme,asif theywereallowedlibertieswithmethatwereforbidden againsttheothers. Thebruisesonyourface,Dareremarkedaloud,andhehad totampdownhisanger.Abruisedwomandoesntsellfor asmuch. Sheshrugged.Theyneveroncestrucktheotherwomenin theface.Infact,theymighthavemanhandledthemalittle, buttheydidnthitthematall. Youeggedthemon.Darecouldntgetoverthat. DidAlanitellyouthat?Well,itstrue,Iguessanditsortof makesmesoundnuts,huh? Idontknow.Dependsonwhyyoudidit,Iguess. Herhandscurledintofists.Theywantedtobreakme,andI

refused.IwasafraidthatonceIdid,onceIfellapart,theyd goaheadandkillme.Likemaybe thatswhattheywerewaitingfor. Shedcrumbledthetoast,realizedit,andbrushedherhands beforefoldingtheminherlap.Believeme,Iwasterrified, butratherthanshowthemthat,I showedthemthescornIfelt. Again,sheamazedhim.Shedsizedupthesituationand rationalizedawaytobuyherselfsometime.Goon. Isometimesoverheardthemtalking.MostlyinSpanish,and myskillsarerustyatbest,butwhenoneoftheguysgot reallyfuriouswithme,anothertold himthathecouldntkillme.Yet. Daresaidnothingasheabsorbedthatandconsideredthe possibilities.Theydbeenwaitingforsomething.Butwhat? Theyfollowedsomeoneelsesinstructions. Maybe,heagreed.Whyelsewouldtheyhavekepther insteadofsellingherorkillingher? Shemethisgaze.AndthenoneofthemsaidthatShe trailedoff,distressed,angry. Anticipatingheranswer,Dareleanedforward.What? Herbrowsdrewtogether,andsheclosedhereyes.ThatI hadsurelylearnedalesson. Hedroppedbackinhischair.Unbelievable.Hadsomeone hiredherabductorstotortureherwithuncertainty,cruel treatment,fearandhumiliation?Ifso,it wouldhavetobesomeonewithalotofhatredand resentment. Someonesheknew. Buthowcouldonesmall,averagewomanincurthatmuch

wrath? Anyoneobvious?Whenshedidntreply,hesaid,Comeon, Molly,youknowIllneedsomespecificsbeforeIcanbeof anyrealhelptoyou. Sighing,sheagaingaveuponthefood.Letsjustsayitcould beanyonefrommyfatherandhisassociates,tomy exboyfriend,toadisgruntledreader. Herboyfriend?Thentherestofwhatshedsaidregistered. Reader? Againshefacedhim,hershouldersbackandherchinup. Imawriter. Published? Sheblinkedbeforesaying,Wellyeah. Anunspokenduhsoundedinherwords.Dareshookhis head.Iveneverheardofyou. Somethingflashedoverherfeatures,maybedefensiveness. Hadshecaughtgriefforwriting? Youmustnotreaddark,sexyromanticsuspense.She tippedherhead,notreallyproud,butmaybesmug.My fourthbookisbeingmadeintoamovie. ThereseventalkofRyanReynoldsplayingthelead. Incredulous,Darewhistledlowunderhisbreath.Sonofa bitch.Youreallycanaffordme,then? Shepickedupherforkwithobviousrenewedhunger.For thebreakfastandwithyouragreement,awholelotmore. MOLLYKNEWSHEDthrownhimwiththebombshellabout hercareer.Butshecouldnthideheridentityforever.What hesaidwastrue:ifshewantedhis

help,andshedid,thenhedhavetoknoweverything. Ingoodtime. Thefoodwassodeliciousthatshedevoureditallorat leastwhatshehadntdestroyedwhilefrettingthroughher theories.Afterward,shefeltfabulous. Well,maybethatwasstretchingthings,butshefeltmore humanthanshehadintoomanydays.Thathollownessin hergutwasnowsatisfied.Shefelt stronger,steadier. Darehadremainedsilentuntilshepoppedthelastbiteof baconintohermouthandsettledbackinherseatwitha sigh.Thankyou. Flintyblueeyes,brightinthesunshinepouringthroughthe window,scrutinizedher.Youwontbesick? Sheshookherhead.Nope.Ifeelfine.Andthistime,itwas true. ShouldIgetmore?Maybesomecakeorpie? Thecourteousoffer,insuchamildtone,wasatoddswithhis expression.Helookedharderthanever,morecapableof deadlyforce. Shedidntunderstandhim,butshetrustedhim.Imfull,but thankyou. Surprisingherwithhislackofquestions,hestoodand headedforthedoor.Ialreadyshoweredandshaved. Isleptthroughthat?Disturbing,butthen,shedbeenso exhausted.Imusuallyaverylightsleeper. Extenuatingcircumstances,hesaid.Youcanhavesome privacyforwhatever.Illbebackwithinthehour. Heshutthedoorbeforeshecouldaskhimwherehewas going.Shehadthedistinctfeelingthatshedrunhimoff.He

wassuchanindependent,skilled personthatbeingaroundsomeonelikeher,someoneso damnedneedy,wouldprobablysuffocatehim. Determinedtowithholdfurthercomplaints,Mollygotup andwenttothewindowtolookout. Usually,wheneversheadmittedtobeingawriter,the questionsstarted.Wheredoyougetyourideas?Howlong doesittaketowriteabook?Howmuch doyougetpaid?Howdidyougetstarted?Sheheardthem often,sometimeswithdisdainwhenpeoplediscoveredthat shewroteforentertainment,not toimpresstheliteraryworld. Usedtobe,peopleaskedherwhyshehadntbeenonOprah, orhadherbooksbeenmadeintoamovie,asifeitherwas somethinginhercontroland easilyaccomplished.Butwiththerecentmoviedeal,atleast oneofthosequestionshadbeenreplacedwithanother:CanI borrowsomemoney? Nearlyeveryonesheknewwantedintoherpocket.Friends shehadntknownshehadshowedupwithgreatregularity. Andwhentheydidntwantmoney, theywantedaninsideedgetomeetingacelebrity,to hangingwiththeincrowd. Mollysnortedtoherself.Shehadntchanged,buteveryone nowtreatedherdifferently. Pushingopenthewindow,sheletinthefreshair.Their roomfacedtheparkinglot,andshesawDaregetintohis rentedvananddrivetowardWalmart again. Ifshelookedtotheleft,shecouldjustseetheturbulent

oceanasitteasedasandybeach,sendingsurfersatopwaves, andthencrashingthemdown again.PeopleinWindbreakersstrolledwiththeirleashed pets.Loverswalkedhandinhand. Mollysighedanddecidedshecoulduseanothershower whileDarewasgone.Maybewithenoughshampooand conditioner,shecouldeasesomeof thegnarledsnagsinherhair. Sometimelater,whileshestillstoodunderthewarmspray, sheheardaknockonthebathroomdoor. Molly? Hedreturnedsoonerthanshedexpectedorshed lingeredlongerthanshemeantto.Berightout,shecalled throughthedoor. Igotyousomemoreclothes,soyoudonthavetoputthe sameonesonifyouwanttochange. Shechewedherlip.Yesterdayhedseenherinnomorethan atowel,butshehadntbeencapableofpresentingherself anydifferently.Today,feeling stronger,shewantedtobelessofanimpositiononhim. Justasecond.Shesteppedoutoftheshower,wrappeda towelaroundherselfandcrackedopenthedoor.Youdidnt needtodothat. Hisgazedippedfromherfacetoherbarelyvisibleright shoulder,andbackupagain.Handinginthebag,hesaid, Theresmoreouthere,butthisought togetyoustarted.Istuckthetoothbrushandtoothpastein therethatIboughtyesterday,too. Bitingherlipsinalongstandinghabit,Mollynodded. Thanks.

Heputahandonthedoor,keepingherfromclosingit.You sureyoureokay? Whyherheartthunderedthatway,shecouldntsay.Shedid trusthim.Butnowthatshewasntsodebilitated,everything seemeddifferent.Moreintimate somehow.Almostlikemyoldself. Hiseyesnarrowedthesmallestbit.Youstilllookshakyto me. Alittle,butthathadmoretodowithtalkingtoabig, powerfulmanwhilewearingonlyatowelthanwithherpast ordeal.Notatall. Yourepale. Odd,sinceshefeltflushed.Mynaturalcoloring? Heconsideredheramomentmoreandmusthavedecidedto letitgo.Illbehereifyouneedanything.Hereleasedthe doorandsteppedaway. Breathlesswithsomeunidentifiableemotion,Mollyclosed thedoor,lockeditwithanaudibleclickthatmadeherwince, anddroppedbackagainstit. FromthemomentshedlaideyesonDare,shedbeenaware ofhissize,hisstrongshoulders,bulgingbicepsandbroad chest.Forher,hisstrength equaledsafety.Hedprovedacapablelifelinewhenshe neededonemost. Nowthatshecouldthinkclearlyandthoseawfulshakeshad mostlysubsidedshesawhimasaman. Andwhataman. Whyhadntshenoticedbeforehowhowgorgeoushewas? Shewasaloneinasmallhotelroomwithoversixfeetof sexiness.Windblownbrownhair,

piercingblueeyes,quietcontrolHerheartcontinuedto thunder. Shedsleptwithhimlastnight,curledtightalonghissidefor comfortandsecurity. Oh,God. Heatfloodedherface,andshepressedherhandsthere.On thephone,hedmentionedhisgirls.Didthatmean daughters?Ormayberomantic involvements?Andwhohadhebeentalkingto?Ifhewasin arelationship,hadsheinadvertentlytrespassed? Molly? Startled,shejumpedawayfromthedoor.Yes? Areyougoingtofinishyourshowerornot? Hereyeswidened.Couldheseethroughthedamndoor?Or washejustsoattunedtoeverythingandeveryonethathe heardherutterstillnessinthe bathroom? Sheclearedherthroat.Yes,gettingtoitrightnow.Then shefrownedandadded,Turnonthetelevisionor something.Shedidntwanthimlisteningto hereverymovement. WhensheheardtheTVturnonloudlysherummaged throughthebaghedgivenher. Toothbrushandtoothpaste!Absurdlyexcited,sheignored theclothesandwentscoutingthroughtherestoftheitems, findinglotion,nailclippersandan emeryboard,arazor,andbettershampooandconditioner. Godlovetheman.Howcouldsomeonesogruff,sodeadly, alsobesosensitive? Thrilled,sheclimbedbackintheshowerwithmuchofher

stash.Unmindfulofwastingwater,shecleanedherteeth untilhermouthfeltfreshagain.The shampooandconditionerhadapleasingscentandwenta longwaytowardmakingherhairfeellesslikearagmop.She evenshavedherlegs,carefulof thescrapesanduglierbruises. Bythetimeshefinishedhershoweranddriedoff,her newfoundenergyhadwaned.Butshewasntabouttoputon thenewclotheshedboughtuntilshe slatheredonthelotionandclippedherraggednails. Theclothesweresimilartowhathedalreadybroughther, justindifferentcolors.Exceptforthepanties;theyremained plainwhitecotton. Dressed,refreshedbuttuckeredout,sheopenedthedoor andsteppedouttofindDareignoringtheblaringtelevision ashestoodtothesideofthe window,peeringout.Helookedsuspiciousofsomething,or someone. Herhearttripped.Anotherthreat?Nono,itcouldntbe. Mollywasabouttoqueryhimwhenhesaid,withoutlooking ather,Alldone? Shedidntwanttositonthebed,soshewenttothesmall tableandpulledoutachair.Onceagain,hedclearedaway theirbreakfastmess.Daredid haveathingfororderandcleanliness. Ialmostfeelhumanagain.Whatdidheseeoutsidethat window? Good.Hedroppedthecurtainandsteppedback,then glancedather.Wereleavinghere. Weare?

Withanod,hesaid,Today.IllseeifIcangetusaflight home,andifnot,wellmovetoanotherhotel. Aflighthome?Hishomeorhers?Andthenwhat? Nothinghadbeendecided.Thethreattoherexistedas stronglyasever.Shakenandagainuncertain,sheaccepted thatsomethingmusthavehappened forhimtoreactlikethis. Ormaybehedfeltthatsparkofinterestfromherandhe wantednopartofit.Rememberinghisconcernforhisgirls, Mollystartedtotremble.Whowere they?Daredidntnoticeherreactionasheputinacallto Chrisandgaveinstructionsthatshebarelyregistered. WasChrishisgirlfriend?Ormore?ShesupposedChris couldbeamalefriend,ormaybejustanemployeeor colleague. Sheshouldjustaskhimbuthispersonallifewasno businessofhers. Dareclosedthephone,setitonthedesk,crossedhisarms overhischestandstaredather. Hermouthwentdryuntilhesaid,Iboughtthescissors youwanted.Butbeforeyouusethem,Iwantyoutoatleast trytogetthetanglesout. ITANNOYEDDARE,THEwaysheinsistedthatshefeltfine. Anyonecouldseethattheremnantsofhernightmarestill draggedather.Heknewfrom experiencethatanemotionaldraincouldbeasbadas, sometimesworsethan,physicalexhaustion. Silent,withdrawnfromhim,sheruthlesslytuggedthe

widetoothedcombthroughherhair.AsmuchasDaretried toignoreit,hecouldnt. ShovingawayfromthewindowandthebeatupredFord truckhedbeenwatching,hestalkedtoherchair,pulledit fromthetablesohecouldgetbehind her,andsaid,Letmehaveit. Twistingaroundtostareupathim,sheasked,What? Thecomb.Hetookitfromherhand.Yourejustyanking throughthetangles. Hereyeswidenedathim.Becauseitlltakeallday otherwise. Youneedtolearnsomepatience.Liftingahankofhair,he startedatthebottomandusedhisfingerstoseparatethe biggesttangles,theneasedthe combthrough,workinghiswayupuntilthathankofhair wassmooth.Whenhefinished,hewentontothenext section. Frozen,tooquiet,Mollyneverobjectedwhenthecomb snaggedandpulled.Heneededtogethertalkingagain. Beforetheylefttheroom,hewantedto knowasmuchaboutherashecould. Youmentionedaboyfriend. Ex. Thatimpliedaconflictpossiblybigenoughtoaccountfor anabductionanddeliberatemistreatment?Tellmewhat happened. Sheshrugged.Hewantedmetobuyhimrimsforhiscar.I refused.Weargued,andthingsjustfellapart. Unabletoimaginethat,Darefrowned.Whywouldhewant youtobuyhimrims?

Oneshoulderlifted.Idgottenabigcheckfromthemovie deal,soIguesshefiguredIcouldaffordit.Shetiltedher headaroundtoseehim.Hewasnt theonlyonewhothoughtIshouldhavebeenbestowing gifts.Actually,justabouteveryonethoughtIshouldshare. Idontknowabouteveryone,butyourboyfriendsounds likeanass. Ex.Herlaughtersurprisedhim.AndIguessheis.ButI didntknowthatuntilmycareertookoff.Beforethat,hewas generousandfun.Itsnotlikehesa pauperhimself.Adrianownsabar,anditdoesprettygood. Withthebackofherhairnowsmooth,Daremovedtoher side.So,justoutoftheblue,heaskedyoutobuyhim things? Sortof. Hewatchedherprofileasheworkedthroughthetangles andsawherchintighteninmemory. Wewereheadinghomeafterlunch,andhepulledintothis specialtyshop,sayinghewantedtolookatsomethings.Car stuffboresme,butIwentinand waitedaroundwhileheandasalesmantalkedforwhatfelt likeforever.Thenhecameovertomeandshowedmethe rimshewanted.Sheshookher head.Iknownothingaboutrims,soIjustoohedandaahed overthem,youknow? Darenodded.Patronizedhim. WellYes,Iguess. Daredidntfaultherforthat.And? Hetoldmehecouldntaffordthem.SoIaskedwhywewere there,then,andhegotfrustratedwithme.

MollyAlexanderwasanupfront,tellitlikeitiskindof woman.Subterfugewouldbewastedonher.Imaginingit almostmadeDaresmile.Youwerent pickinguponhiscues. Apparentlynot.Shemovedsuddenly,saying,Really,Dare, Icouldfinishthis. Heheldthecomboutofherreach.Youhadyourchance. Helikedtofinishwhathestarted.Andbesides,hewassort ofenjoyingit. Resigned,Mollycrossedherlegsandarmsandshrugged. Promptingher,Daresaid,Youarguedovertherims?There attheshop? Moreorless.WhenheflatoutsaidthatIcouldaffordthem, andhewantedthem,Ijustlaughed.Imean,whatdoIwant withrims?Itsnotsomuchthathe askedmetobuyhimthings,buthowhedidit. Justdemandingalmost.Andthenhegotfurious,causinga bigscene. Dareshookhishead. Itwasridiculousandembarrassing,andwhenItoldhimto knockitoff,hestormedout. Musthavebeenanuncomfortableridehome.Althoughhe figuredthatinmostsituations,Mollycouldholdherown. Shesnorted.Iwouldntknow.Itookacab. Heleftwithoutyou? HewasstillrailingwhenIleftthestoretofollowhim,soI refusedtogetinthecaruntilhecalmeddown.Calming downwasnthispriority,so,yeah,heleft mestandingthere.Sheletoutalongbreath.Andforme, thatwasthat.Later,Adriantriedapologizing,butImnotbig

onpublichumiliation. Fewpeopleare. Theredbeenlittlethingsbeforethen,anditalladdedup. Thesceneinthecarshopwasenoughformetorealizehow histruecolorshadbeguntoshow onceIstartedmakingmoremoneywithmywriting.Imadea choicenottobeused. Atleastshehadntbeeninlovewithhim,Darethought.A womaninlovedidntletafewmoneydisagreements, regardlessofhowunpleasanttheymight be,endthings.Alldone. Sheranahandoverherhair,thenlookedatthesmallpileof haironthetable,comprisedoftheknotstheydpulledfree andhadtoremovefromthecomb. Lookslikewekilledarat. Healmostsmiledandhiscellrang.Whileheansweredthe callfromChris,Mollytidiedupagain,thentookthebrush hedboughtandwentintothe bathroom.Heheardtheblowdryerturnonwithaloud whir.Sheclosedthedoortosparehimthenoise. Whatdoyouhaveforme,Chris? Yourticket,plusone,leavingSDMinthreehoursona privateBeechjetwithseatingforseven.Iknowthatsquick, butyousaidASAP,right?Canyou makethatokay? Chrisknewtoalwaysleadwiththedetails.Youcheckedout thepilots? Yup.Squeakycleanrecordsforbothofthem. Then,yeah,wellbethere. Oneofthepilotsgavemehisnumber,sotakeitdownjustin

case.Hesaidwithwhatyourepayinghim,hecanbe flexible. Dareshookhishead.Christookfartoomuchenjoymentin spendinghismoney.Afterhedwrittendownthepilots nameandcellnumberandstowedthe paperinhispocket,DaredecidedtoclueChrisin.Justso youknow,Imbringingplusonehomewithme. Chrisfellsilent,butitdidntlastlong.Noshit?Agirl? Woman.Dareagainlookedoutattheparkinglot.Thetruck wasgone,buthedidnttrustit.Hesensedtheywerebeing watched,andhefuckingwell didntlikeit. Andyourebringingherhere? Yeah,unheardof.Hedkepthishomesacrosanctfromhis business,butItscomplicated.Mollywasnowherenear readytotravelyet.Thelongtrip backtoKentuckywouldbegruelingforher.Butrightnow,it wastheonlywayheknewtokeephersafeuntilhegot thingsfiguredout.Sheshiringmeto protecther. Fromwhat? Daredroppedthecurtainandlookedtowardthebathroom door.Hepicturedherinthere,wornoutbutdeterminedto getherhairdried.Shewasan enigmawithahugeproblem. Heshookhishead,moreathimselfthanforanyother reason.Honestly,Chris,IwishtohellIknew. CHAPTERFOUR WHENMOLLYEMERGEDlookinglikeadifferentwoman,

Daredidadoubletake.Herhairwasreallynice;notthe plainbrownhedassumedbuta lightbrownwithredandgoldhighlightsthatlookednatural insteadofsaloncreated. Seeingitsemifixed,softandcurlingaroundherface,altered herappearancedrastically,givingheraveryfeminineedge thatwasonlyenhancedbythe vulnerabilitystillvisiblefromherbruisesandtiredness. Whoknewawomanshairplayedsuchamajorroleinher looks? Itwas,Daresupposed,oneofthemanysecretstofemale routines.Notthathehadalotofexperiencewiththat,since hedneverbeeninvolvedwithany onewomanlongenoughtodwellonherpersonalgrooming habits. Withthelimitedmeansathand,Mollyshairwasfarfrom polished,hanginglooseandshiningtojustbelowher shoulders.AsDarestaredather,she tuckedonesidebehindherear. Tocoverhissurprise,Daresaid,Wereflyingoutinthree hours. Hereyesflared.Okay.Butgoingwhere,exactly? Asifhedraggedhomerescuevictimsonaregularbasis, Dareshrugged.Myplace,first.IhaveafewthingsIhaveto doathome.ThenIllaccompany youtoyourplace. Takinghiswordslikeablow,shewenttothebedand gingerlysatattheedge.Oh.Okay. Illbewithyou. Shetriedasmilethatfellflat.

Molly.Youhavetogobacktoyourplacesoonerorlater, right? OfcourseIdo.Sheputhershouldersbackintelling reaction.Ineedtotalkwithmyeditorandagent.I haveplantstowater.Shechewedherlip.I needmyflashdrivesandmyownclothesandSheshook herhead.Goingbackwillbegood. Hadsheconsideredrefusing?Darefrowned,thenretrieved thefirstaidkitfromhisbag.Givenhislineofwork,he carriedamoreextensivesupplyof medicinesandbandagesthanwhatwasfoundinanaverage firstaidkit.Hedraggedachairoverandturnedittoface her. Whenhesat,helookedatherandsawagainthatshe avoidedhisgaze.Thatsit?Wholeheartedacceptance,but noquestions? Sheinhaled,expandingthatimpressivechestsothatshe filledouttheoversizedshirt.Hergazeskittereduptomeet his.Youdontseemrealforthcoming withinformation,andIdontwanttodoanythingtomake youregretyourdecisiontostickwithme. Anupfrontanswer.Heshouldhaveknownwhereher thoughtshadtakenher.Youthinkyouvebeenabig imposition? Sheeyedthefirstaidkitwarily,butdidntmentionit.Ifnot forme,youdalreadybehome,right?Instead,youhadto dealwithmeandmyproblems.I dontlikebeingdependentonanyone,andIreallydontlike puttingyouout. Sincewereflyingouttoday,Iwasonlydelayedonenight.

Andifyoumeantheclothesandfood Well,thatandHertongueflickedoverherbottomlip withnervousness.Sleepingwithyou. Therewasthat.Youhadanightmare.Dontworryaboutit. Sheglancedupandaway.LogicallyIknowImokaynow, butatnight,inthedark Yeah.Hedsavedwomenbefore,buthehadntsleptwith them.Hell,hedhadsexwithplentyofwomenwithout sleepingwiththem. Usually,hesaid,onceIhaveawomanoutofharmsway, shegoesimmediatelytosomeoneelsesomeoneshetrusts. Mostoftenitsthepersonwho paidmetogetheroutinthefirstplace.Andifthewoman hadnightmares,well,shehadsomeoneotherthanDareto getherthroughit. Mollynodded.Andwithme,younotonlyhaventbeenpaid, youresortofstuckwithme. Notstuck,no.Hedmadethedecisionthatshewould remainwithhim.Heneverallowedotherstocoercehim,not inanyway.Butunderstand,Molly fornow,Imgoingtokeepyousafe.AfterIfigureoutthe threatanddecidehowbesttoresolveit,thenwellcometo termsonouragreement. Financially,youmean. Whatelse?Henoddedaffirmation,butsaid,That,and more. Suchas? Heopenedthefirstaidkit.IfImgoingtobeinchargeof yoursafety,youhavetofollowmydirectionstotheletter.No balking,noarguments.

Shelickedherlipsagainandnodded. Shelickedherlipsagainandnodded. Good.Wellstartwithmecheckingoutsomeofthesecuts andscrapesthatyouhave.Thelastthingyouneedisan infection.Helookedather.Giveme yourarm. Asifonlythenrealizingthatshemighthavecuts,Molly lookedateacharm.Icantakecareofit. Icantakecareofitbetter. Whosays? Isay.Hadnthealreadyprovenhiscapabilitywithher hair? Darecaughtherarmandpulledherforwardtoreachthe injury.Ignoringherprotestation,hesaid,Thisllstinga little.Heswipedthecutwiththe antisepticandheardherhissinabreath,butshedidntmove andshedidntcomplain.Thecutwasntdeepanddidntneed stitches,buthedabbeditwith anantibioticointmentandcovereditwithabandage. Theprocedurewasrepeatedonasmallspotonherother arm,andwhenhelookeddownatherlegs,hertoescurled. Dare,reallyHebenttoascrapeonherinnerthigh,and shesaidinarush,ShouldntIatleastknowyourlast name? Herhigh,shrillvoiceamusedhim.Itwasntfromfearthat shenearlyscreechedathim.No,itwassomethingelse.But definitelynotfear. Macintosh. Well,surely,DareMacintosh,youwilladmitIcanreachmy ownlegs!

Shecouldbuthewantedtodoit.Why,hecouldnthonestly say,butasmallliewouldwork.Ineedtoknowitsdone right,sojusthushandsitstill. Mollyhadsleek,shapelylegsandsmallfeet.Herskin,where itwasnthurt,wassmoothandsoft.Hecuppedthebackof herkneeandliftedherlegto treatwhatlookedlikerugburns.Sincetheredbeenno carpetinginthetrailer,heassumedtheinjurieswerecaused duringherabduction.Hewantedto knowmoreaboutthat,andwould,soon. Hefoundtwomoredeepscratchesonherlegs,andacuton thesideofherfoot.Ashetreatedherfoot,hedecidedshed needmorethanloosesandals tokeepitprotected. Hesatback.Anywhereelse? Sherolledinherlips,releasedthem,andgavein,puttinga handtothebackofherneck.Imnotsure,buttheremight besomethinghere.Itstungalittle whenIwasshowering.Liftingherhair,sheturnedtoshow him. Dareflinchedinrage.Clearly,someonehadchokedher, giventhefingermarksonherslenderthroat.Abovethe fadedbruising,adeepscratchshowed. Underhisbreath,butnotsoftlyenough,Darewhispered, Fuckers. Sheswallowed.ThebruisesareleftoverfromwhenIwas firsttaken.Ididntgoalongeasily. Andsosomeonehadchokedher? Theyrealmostgonenow,shesaid,asiftryingtoreassure him.

Notgoneenough.Hetouchedhershoulder,andfelther shiverasheturnedheralittlemoresohecouldbettersee. Whileholdingupherhair,shedroppedherheadforward, andtheposewassoinnocentlyprovocative,andyetso trusting,thathefelthimselfstir. Damnit,itwasntlust.Whatshemadehimfeelwas somethingmorepowerfulthanthatandmoredisturbing. Heshookitofftoconcentrateonher injuries. Howdyougetthisscratch?Itlookeddeep,healedovera little,butstillpainful. Hernarrowshoulderslifted.Oneofthemworeanornate ring. Andthebastardhadbeenmanhandlingherenoughtocut herwithit?Yeah,Daredecided,hedbeprotectingherbut hedecidedagainstsharingsolid decisionswithheryet.Heneededalotmoreinfo,anditdbe bestifshethoughthiscompliancehingedonhergivingfull truths. Inhisexperience,toomanypeoplehadsecretsthatcould altertheoutcomeofanevent. Daretreatedthescratch,butdidntbandageit.Done. SoSheturnedonthebedagain,facinghimashereplaced thechair.Youvemadeplanstoleave. Inafewhours.Soonaswecangetpackedup,wereoutof here. Shenodded,buthesitated.I,umNotthatitmattersinthe longrun,Iguess,butIfeelconspicuousboardingaplane likethis.Sheheldoutthehemof thebigshirthedgivenher.Dowehavetimeformetojust

buysomejeansandmaybeabra? Hismouthfirmed.Lookingather,hecouldseetheneedfor thebra,especiallywithhernipplespuckered,pressing againstthethincottonoftheshirt. Yeah,hecouldmaketimeforthat.Ifsheknewtheydbeona charteredplane,awayfromanycrowds,shemightnotthink thatshoppingwasnecessary, butitwouldnthurtforhertogetsomeshoesandsocks,too. Wecanspareabouttwentyminutesorso. IpromiseIcanfindwhatIneedinthattime.Hustlingnow, movingfasterthanhedseenhermovebeforethis,she gatheredupthefewthingshedgotten her. Darenoddedtowardhisbagonthebed.Stowitinthere. Whatwillyoudoaboutyourweapons? Dontworryaboutit.Chrishadalreadycleareditwiththe pilotsofthecharteredplane. Innotime,theywerecheckedoutandleavingthemotel. Darescannedtheparkinglotbutdidntseeanyonewatching them.Makingyetanothertripto Walmart,hedroveacrossthestreetandparkedawayfrom othershoppers. Thoughshecouldnodoubtaffordtoshopinapricey boutique,Mollydidntturnuphernoseattheracks.She lookedtired,butitdidntslowherdownas shelocatedapairofjeans,threepairsofsocks,lowboots,a bra,moreunderwearandazipuphoodedsweatshirtin underthetwentyminutesallotted. Shewasapowershopperlikehim. Impressed,Darepaidforthepurchasesandstartedbackout

tothelotwithher. ThatswhenhespottedtheredFordtruck.Handingthebag toMolly,hesteeredhertothesideofthefrontdoorsand said,StayhereuntilIcomebackfor you.Dontmove.Period.Doyouunderstandme? What?Wait.Shegrabbedforhisarminaflashofpanic. Whereareyougoing? Darescannedthearea,decidingonthebestadvantage. Throughhisteeth,hesaid,Tellmeyouunderstand. Shereleasedherdeathgriponhim.Iunderstand.Fearput aquaverinhervoice.Iwontmovefromthisspot. Goodgirl.Keepinghisgazeonthetruckdriver,whohadnt yetnoticedthem,Daredartedoutalongsideadriverlooking foraparkingplace.Stayinglow, uncaringofwhatothersmightsurmise,heusedthe parkinglottraffictoconcealhimuntilhecouldgettothe othersideofthetruck. UsinganSUVforcover,hecheckedtoseethatMolly remainednearthefrontdoors.Thedriveroftheredtruck steppedout.HedspottedMolly,was lookingrightather,andthenhestartedsearchingforDare. Thedriver,adarkguywithblackhairandmirrored sunglasses,heldacellphoneinhishand.Forbackup,orto reporttosomeone? Dartingfromcartocar,Darepositionedhimselfbehindthe unsuspectingdriver,andthenhesteppedoutand straightened.Luckilytheywerefarenough awayfromthefrontofthestorethatmostofthebustling shopperswouldntnoticethem. Hisheartbeatslowandsteady.Hisbreathremainedeven;

nottoofast,nottooshallow.Hewasinhiselementnow,and hewoulddamnwellgetanswers. Clearinghisthroattodrawthemansattention,Dare watchedasthedrivershiftedhisbalanceinsurprise.Before hecouldturn,Darekickedouthis supportingknee,buthedidntlethimfall.Hegrabbedhis arminachickenwinghold. Thedrivercriedoutinmingledrage,fearandpanic. Whoareyou?Deliberately,Daretorquedthearmalittle more.AnswerquickbeforeIsnapit. InSpanish,hemuttered,Noone.Iwashired,thatisall. Hiredtodowhat?Andwhentheguystartedtospeak,Dare said,InEnglish,asshole. Callwhenyouleftthestore,sothegirlcouldberetrieved. Ah.HedtoldhimtospeakinEnglish,andnowthattheman did,Daredidnthearanaccent.Whowantsherdead? Dead?Heshookhishead.AllIknowissheescapedwhen sheshouldnthave. Andsosomeonewantedherback?Butwhy?Darereleased themansarmandjerkedhimaroundtofacehim.Takeoff thesunglasses. Fuckyou. Movingsofastthattheguycouldntbraceforit,Darehithim hardinthegut.Theblowstolehiswind,collapsinghim forwardashewheezed.Dare knockedthesunglassesoffhisfaceand,withahandknotted inhisshirtfront,liftedhimtohistoes. American,notMexican.Daresjawclenched.Whenhed carriedMollyoutofthetrailer,hehadntleftbehindany witnessestorecognizehim.Someone

musthavecheckedinafterthat,andrealizedshewasgone. TrackingdownanAmericanwomanrescuedfromTijuana wouldbetoughunlesssomeone hadthesamelevelofcontactsasDare.Whoareyou supposedtocall? Idontknow. Bullshit.Themanbrieflytriedtostruggle,butmaintaining hisholdontheguysshirt,Daredrewtheknifeandpressed itjustbeneaththebastardsribs. Yourereallyblowingmypatience,amigo. Verystillnow,hiseyeswideathowhardthatknifepressed intohim,theguyspilledhisguts.Whoeverhadherwants herback.ThatsallIknow,Iswear. Shovinghimbackagainstthevehicle,Daresaid,Dialit. Whoeverthemanwas,Darewouldtalktohimhimself.At theveryleast,hedlethimknowthe futilityofcontinuingthispursuit. Theshakendriverpunchedinthenumbersandstartedto handthephonetoDare. Aringingsoundedovertheparkinglot. Stunned,Daresgazeshotupandlockedontoapayphone nearthefrontentrancetothestorerightwherehedleft Molly. Fuck.Heleveledthedriverwithanelbowtothejawandwas alreadyrunningflatoutwhenhesawsomeonegrabMolly frombehind,wrappinganarm aroundherthroatandclampinghisotherhandoverher mouth. Daresvisionwentred. Chargingwithoutmakingasound,heclosedthedistanceto

Molly.Themanholdinghertriedtodraghertowardan idlingCharger,butshethrashedand fought,andhercaptorhadahellofatimekeepingcontrol. Peoplearoundthemwatchedinhorrorbutofferedno assistance. Daredidntneedany. Beforethefuckerscouldstuffherinthatcar,hedgetthem. Itdidntmatterthatthereweretwoofthem.Itwouldnt havematterediftherewerefour.He wouldnotletthemtakeheragain. Atashoutfromthedriverofthecar,herassailantlookedup andsawDaregunningforhim.Eyeswideningwith comprehensionofDaresrage,theman releasedMollywithashoveandjumpedintothealready movingblackCharger.Thecarscreechedoutoftheparking lot. Stumblingintothebrickfacingofthestore,herpurchases scatteredaroundher,Mollycoughedandgaspedforair. Tearsrolleddownherpalecheeks, morefrombeingchokedthanweeping. Bystandersgatheredaroundher.Onewomancollected Mollysdumpedbelongingsforherand,whenshedidnt acceptthem,setthemnearherfeet. Hisgazegluedtoher,Dareelbowedhiswaythroughthe crowdandreachedout.Molly. Shelaunchedagainsthim. Tighteninghisarmsaroundher,hetuckedherfaceinclose andletherhidefromtheirgapingaudience.Ivegotyou, Molly.Itsokaynow. Butitwasnt,andtheybothknewit.

Someonewantedherbadlyenoughtoriskgrabbingherin themiddleofabusyparkinglot.Thetruckdriverhadbeen nomorethanadiversionforhim andhedfallenforit. Fury,aimedathimself,madeDarealittlemoregruffthan necessarywhenhepushedherbacktoseeherface. Areyouhurt? Eyesalittlewild,facestillwhite,sheshookherhead,saying shakily,No.Idontthinkso. Butherkneeswerebleeding,andherhairwasagainamess. Hedseenmanythingsinhislifetime,andhedgaineda reputationforhiscalm,calculated response.SeeingMollythiswaylefthimchurningwithvery unfamiliarfeelings. Coldandprecise,hecaughtMollyselbowandgrabbedup herbags.Letsgo. Hepracticallydraggedheralong,buthedidntwanttotake anymorechances.Someonebehindthemyelled,Icalledthe cops.Theyreontheway. Dareignoredhim.CopswouldwantMollytostickaround answeringquestions,andthatwentagainstwhatDare wantedwhichwastogetherthefuck outofthere,awayfromdanger. Nowayinhellwouldhemisstheircharteredflight. Heopenedthedooroftherentedvan,shovedherpurchases tothefloor,andallbutputherinthepassengerseat.He evenbuckledherinandshedidnt protest. Shelookedtobeinshock,whitefaced,shakenandsosilent thatithurthim.Damnit,hewasntamantoactwithout

thinkingthingsthrough,butnow,with her Theinsanepressurebuiltuntilhecouldntbearitanymore. Darecuppedherface,leanedinandgaveherahard,fastkiss onthemouth. Thatgotherfocusedagain.Heatfloodedherface,andshe inhaledsharply.Asshetouchedshakingfingertipstoher mouth,herwideeyedgazelocked onhis. Stillwithhishandcoveringthecoolnessofhercheek,Dare said,Imnotgoingtoletthemhurtyouagain,Molly.Iswear it. Twodeepbreathsexpandedherchest.Sherolledherlipsin, staredamomentmore,andthennodded.Okay.IShe blinked.Thankyou,Dare. Hergratitudemadehimgrowl,butdamnit,hedidnthave timetoexplainsomethingtoherthatevenhestilldidnt understand.Heslammedherdoorand joggedaroundtothedriversside.Ifhedidnthurry,theyd betherewhenthecopsarrivedandthenhedlosecontrolof thesituation.Heneededtofocus onprotectingher,notdwellonhowsoftandsweether mouthfeltunderhis. WithinminutestheywerewellawayfromtheWalmartand thepossibilityofpolicedelays. Ontheridetotheairstripwheretheydcatchthecharter plane,Darequestionedher.Didtheguywhograbbedyou sayanything? Sheheldherhandsinherlap,herfacefilledwithconfusion, maybeasmuchfromhiskissashernearabduction.Dare

couldstilltasteher,andthatbrief touchofhermouthonhishadstirredhimandlefthimmore determinedthanevertokeephersafe. TheysaidtocomealongorIddie.Shelookedoverathim. Buttheyprobablyplannedtokillmeeitherway,dontyou think?ThatswhyIfoughtthem. Youdidgood.Youslowedthemdown. Iknewyouwerecloseby,andIknewthatyoudgettomein time. Herfaithstruckhimevenmorethanthatkisshad. Withstillwaveringcomposure,shesaid,Thankyou,Dare. Thatstwicenow Histemperallbutsnapped.Damnit,Molly. Shejumped,and,feelinglikeabully,hemoderatedhistone. Iwasntcarefulenough,Daretoldher.Ididntthinkthat through.TheminuteIsawthatidiotintheparkinglot,I shouldhavecountedonatrap.Ishould have Stopit.Thequietnessofhertremblingvoiceaddedgravity tothecommand.Youdonthavepsychicpowers,soyou couldnthaveknown. No,butIhaveexperienceandtraining. Shereachedoverandtouchedhisshoulder.Godstruth, Dare,IfeelsaferwithyouthanIpossiblycouldwithanyone else,sopleasedontget discouraged. ForChristssake.Shewasallbutinshockagainand throughhisillhumor,hedgivenherthewrongimpression. Hedrewonebreath,thenanother.I amnotdiscouraged,Molly.Justtheopposite,fromhereon

outImgoingtobeahellofalotmorecareful.Gotit? Oh.Okay.Thankyou.Iappreciatethat. Seeingthatshewasbacktobeingsuperproperagain,Dare sighed.Tellmeaboutyourfamily. Why? Yousaidityourself,Molly.Itcouldbeanyonedoingthisto you.Youneedanoutsideperspectiveonthings.Itsalways easiesttostartwiththoseclosestto you. Humoringhim,shesaid,Andthatdbemyfamily. Right.Sotellmeeverythingyoucanandletmesortout whatsimportantandwhatisnt. Withashrug,sheponderedthings.Well,likeItoldyou,I endedthingswithmyboyfriend.Actually,hewasafianc beforeweseparated,butwehadntyet pickedadatetomarryoranything. Fianc?Thatnettledhim,sentacoldfisttighteninginhis gut.Why,hedidntwanttoponderexceptthathecouldnt believeMollyhadlovedAdrian. Maybeshedrealizedthat,too,whichwaswhysheduseda goodexcusetobreakthingsoffwithhim.Didyourfamily likehim? TheresonlymyDadandKathi,andmysister,Natalie.My dadsparentsaredeceased.Hewasanonlychild.Thereare auntsandunclesandallthaton mymothersside,buttheydontlivenearus,andIthinkIve metmostofthemonlyacoupleoftimesinmyentirelife. Tryingtofigureoutthefamilydynamics,Dareasked,So Kathiisntyourmother? Stepmother.Withoutmissingabeat,shesaid,Mymom

threwherselfoffabridgetwiceyearsago. Daredidadoubletake.Mollyannouncedhermothers suicidesocasually,itthrewhim.Imsorry. Antsy,stillshaking,Mollystaredoutthesidewindow.Dad madeMommiserable.Iwastwelvethefirsttimeshetriedto killherself.Shejumpedoffa bridge,buttherewasarescueteamdoingdrillsintheriver. Shedidntknowtheywerethereuntiltheyfishedherout. Damn.Thathadtoberough. Shemadeanoncommittalsound.Momspentsometimein thehospital,allthewhilewithmydadharpingoverher selfishnessandherweakness.Fora fewyearsaftertheyreleasedher,Ithoughtshedbeokay. Butshewasnt? No.Mollyshookherhead,andhervoicelowered.WhenI wasfifteen,Dadcheatedonher,andIguessitwastoo much.ShelookedatDare.When shethrewherselfoffthebridgethenexttime,shemadesure itwasabridgeoverahighway,notwater. Sorryhedbroughtupsuchpainfulmemories,Dare muttered,Jesus. Yeah.Herhandsknottedtogether,andshestaredoffat nothing.Dadnevershowedmuchremorse,buthedidntsee theotherwomanagain,either.I dontthinkeitherofthem,mymomorthewomanhe cheatedwith,evermeantthatmuchtohim. Yourdadsoundslikearealprince. Hesaselfish,pampered,classAsnob,believeme.Hefinds faultwitheveryoneoreverything. Includinghisdaughters?

Especiallyhisdaughters.SheglancedatDare,hernose wrinkling.IsometimeswonderhowKathiputsupwith him. Hopingtogetherbackontrack,Dareasked,DidKathilike Adrian? Shethoughthewasniceandwisheduswell.ButKathiis likethat.Despitebeingrichevenbeforeshemarriedmydad, whoisprettydarnedwelltodo, shetendstobeveryacceptingofmostpeople. Interesting.SoyougetalongwithKathi? Mollyshrugged.Wedonthavealotincommon,really. Shesintosocialclubsanddesignerclothes,andshelikes decorating,artandmuseums. Yousaidyourdadisrich,soyoumustbeusedtothose things,too. No,DadwantedNatalieandmetomakeitonourown,to earnourkeep,asheputit.Weskippedtheprivateschools andtravelabroad,andwealways hadsummerjobs.Imgladhetookthatattitude,becauseI wouldntwanttobelikehim.AndImnot.Butnow,even thoughIvemadeitonmyown,hefinds mesomethingofanembarrassment. Witharedhazestillcrowdinginaroundhisvision,Dare knewthathedidntlikeherfatheratall,andhewantedto puthimatthetopofhislistofsuspects. Butheneededtobecoldandmethodical,notemotionaland irrational. Needingmoreinfo,hetookabreath,lockedhisteeth,and asked,Howso? Itsfunny,really.Well,maybeironicisabetterword.See,all

ofDadsfriendsdaughtersareactiveinthecommunity, headingupcharitableeventsand stuffastheyweregroomedtodo.Someofthemevenwork withKathi.Shesaregularphilanthropist.Butthankstohow Dadraisedus,thatworldis alientome.SowhilethedaughtersofDadspeersarebeing reveredinthepressfortheiractivism,allIdoismailoffa check. Itsmorethanmostpeopledo.Atleastheddistractedher, Daredecided.Hertremblinghadsubsided,andshewasntso pale. Maybe.Shegavehimalookandthenshrugged.In hindsight,IthinkDadfeelsslightedthathisoffspringareso dismissed. Hesoundslikeanass. Shesmiledandsaidagain,Maybe,thenadded,Most societywomenliveininfluentialneighborhoodswithposh accommodations,butmyapartmentis prettysimple. Simpleisgood. Forme,itslessaboutimpressiveentertainingandmore aboutbeingfunctionalsothatIcanfindfilesandresearch noteswhenIneedto.Ivealways beenmoreintocomfortthanfashion,andwhenitcomesto art,Ilikemovieposters.Shegaveamockshudder.Dad cantstanditthatIdontowna singlepieceofrealart. Dareimaginedherapartment,andsomehowitfitwithwhat healreadyknewofher. Kathihasofferedtogoshoppingwithme.Herlipcurled.

Tohelpme,youknow,sothatIcanbetterrepresentmy father.ShesallaboutmakingDad lookgoodhowevershecan.ButusuallyIstaytoobusywith deadlinestocareaboutrepresentinganythingbutmywork. Kathisoundsalittlehoitytoity,butyoujustsoundreal. Dontgetthewrongidea.Forthemostpart,wegetalong fine.Kathidoesenjoythefinerthingsinlife,butunlikemy dad,shemakesanefforttoget along,andbetterstill,shedoesntturnuphernoseatgenre fiction. Whatyouwrite. Kathiactuallyreadsallmywork.Shemanagedahalfgrin, andinaconspiratorialwhisperadded,Itdrivesmydad nuts. Hedoesntreadyou? God,no.Themerethoughthadherlookingill. Huh.Iwouldthinkallofyourfamilywouldreadyou.He wasdamncurioushimself,andheplannedtopickuponeof herbooksatthefirstopportunity. Mysisterdoessometimes,butmostlybecausewell,shes mysister.Youknow?Itsnotreallyherthing.Shesmore intopoliticaldramasortruecrime. AndDadMollygaveamockshudder.Hewouldntbe caughtdeadwithagenrebookinhispersonallibrary. Especiallynotonewithexplicitsexinit, andmostespeciallynotoneofmybooks. ThatdivertedDarefromhisannoyancewithherfather. Yourbookshaveexplicitsexinthem? Sheimmediatelywentdefensive.Lifehassexinit,andI writeaboutlife,aboutpeoplewhofacehardshipsandinthe

endtriumphthroughitall.Anyreally goodtriumphdeservesalastinglove,dontyouthink? Beforehecouldanswer,shesaid,Ofcourseitdoes.Andany lastinglovehastohavereallyhot,wonderfulsex. Dareraisedabrow.Hehadnoargumentagainsthotsex, withorwithoutlove.Again,hebroughtherbacktothepoint. Howaboutyoursister?Yousaid shereadsyourbooksjustbecauseyourerelated.Buthow dothetwoofyougetalongotherwise?DidshelikeAdrian? Mollywentquietforamoment.MysisterWell,Natalie andIareprettyclose.Shesonlythreeyearsyoungerthan me,andthroughhighschooland collegewehungouttogether.Shesnotjustmysisterbutmy bestfriend,too.Asmybestfriend,shedoesntthinkanyone isgoodenoughforme,butshe especiallydidntlikeAdrian.Actually,shepeggedhimfrom jump.Hewasagolddigger,auserandabully. Darelikedhersisteralready.SowecanruleoutNatalie? Mollysmirked.Shedgoafteranyonewhoevenspokean unkindwordtome. Includingyourfather?Darewasrelievedtoseethetension leavingherbysmalldegrees.Herinnerstrengthand composureastoundedhim.Therewere notears,nodwellingonwhatmighthavehappened.She understoodtheurgencyofthesituation,butshedidntfall apartoverit. Dadbuttsheadswithbothofusonaregularbasis.Its prettymuchwhatourrelationshipisallaboutstrife, contemptandstrainedpoliteness.Ifitwasnt forKathi,IdontknowhowoftenNatalieorIwouldevensee

him. SoKathiistheglue? Prettymuch.Shesforeverinvitingusallovertogether, hopingagainsthopethatsomehowmydadwillmove beyondhisrigidcensureofus.Ithinkshes motivatedbyappearances,mostly.Youknow,itlooksbetter ifDadsdaughtersactuallylikehimandenjoyhiscompany. Hersmilewentflat.Butatleast shetries. Couldherfatherberesponsibleforherabduction?Yousaid heswelltodo. BishopAlexanderisanextremelysuccessfulbusinessman. Heinheritedhisfatherscorporation,whichwasthrivingto beginwith,buthesgrownitten timesover. Meaninghehasenoughmoneytoarrangeandfinanceyour kidnapping? Theideastalledher.Money,meansandacoldenoughheart. ButShelookedatDare.Icantimaginehimdoingthat. Wevehadourupsanddowns, butmydadjustisntthetypetodirtyhimselfwith somethingsosordidandillegal. Dareknewthatthemostunlikelypeopleoftendidthings thatthoseclosesttothemcouldneverfathom. Mollystareddownatherhands,strugglingwiththeideaof whathadhappened.Finallyshesaid,Thethingis,Icant imagineanyonewhoisthetype.Until thishappened,Ididntknowthatanyonedislikedmethat much. Theywerealmosttotheairstrip,alittleaheadofschedule.

Daredidntwanthertogetupsetalloveragain.Onemore question. What? Ifyouandyoursisteraresoclose,shemustknowyoure gone,andshemustbeworried.Mollystiffenedalittle,but Darecouldntbackdown.So,Molly, tellme.Whydidntyouwanttocallherafteryouknewyou weresafe? CHAPTERFIVE MOLLYSTAREDINwonderasDareledhertothesmall privateplane.Thewindontheairstripblewherhairintoher face,makingherstumbleovera step.Darecaughtherelbowinafirmergripandkepther upright. Hehadalotofquestions,butshedidnthavethatmany answers. Luckilyhedreceivedacallthathadlastedrightuntilhewas readytodropofftherentedvan.Shethoughtitmighthave beenChrisagain,andthecallhad lefthermiredinconfusion. DarespoketoChriswithfamiliarity,affectionand easeproofthattheysharedadefinitecloseness.Maybe evenintimacy. IfChriswasagirlfriend,thenwhywouldDarehavekissed her?Hedidntstrikeherasauser,asamanwhowould cheat.Hewasfartooprotectivetobe deliberatelyhurtfultoanyonehecaredabout. Itwaspossibleshewasmakingtoomuchofthekiss.Hed wantedtosnapheroutofhershock,andthekisshad

certainlydonethetrick,andthen some. Afterturninginthevan,Daregaveherenoughtimetogo intotheladiesroomtochangeintohernewclothes.While there,shedcleanedthebloodoffher kneesandelbowsandtidiedherhair.Ifshethoughtofhow thosemenhadtriedtogether,itmadeherill. Shenever,everwantedtobeatsomeoneelsesmercyagain. Notlikethat.Shecouldntbearit. ButDarehadsavedher,andnow,ChrisornoChris,it soundedlikeheplannedtoprotecther.Shedrewacalming breathandremindedherselftotakeit onestepatatime.Itwastheonlywayshecouldholdit together. Assoonasshedemergedintheclothesthatmostlyfitand weremuchmorecomfortable,Darebeganhustlinghertothe plane. Rememberinghermothersdeathleftherachingwithfresh hurt.Thinkingofherfathersdisapprovalalwaysfilledher withburningresentment.Andyes, Nataliewouldbefrantic,afactMollyhated. Butsomeonehadputherthroughhell,andshehadto concentrateonthat,andonlythat.Shedidntknowwhoto trustexceptforDare. Hedkissedher.Whatdiditmean? WhenonepilotcameouttogreetDarewithahealthydoseof deference,MollyrealizedthatDaremustbeaffluent.How elsecouldheaffordtopayfora spurofthemomentcharterflightfromonesideofthe countrytotheother?

Ordidheexpecthertopayforit?Wouldthisbeaddedto herexpenses? Sheeyedthespiffylookingplaneanew.Unlikeherfather, shedneverflownprivatelybefore.Theplanewassmall enoughtomakeherextremelynervous. Untiltheygotaboard. Wow. Distracted,Dareglanceddownather.What? Thisisdecadent. Hegaveacursorylookaroundtheplane,butjustshrugged. Itscomfortableenough.Grabaseat. Therewereonlyseven,butMollywantedasmuchprivacy fromthetwoyoung,GQlookingpilotsaspossible,soshe headedtowardtherearoftheplane, nearthelavatory.Thebackseatsfacedforward,soshecould seeDarestillupfronttalkingtothemen,discussingashort layovertorefuelandthe estimatedtimeofarrival. Atherseatwasanentertainmentconsolewithamonitor, satellitehookupandaDVD/CD/MP3player.Stilllooking around,shemadenoteoftheburl woodcabinetry,thebuttersofttanleatherseats,plush carpetingandafullystockedbar. Dareknewhowtotravelinstyle.Sheonlyhopeditwouldnt breakherbankaccount.Shehadnoideawhatsomething likethismightcost. Hejoinedheramomentlater.Wantadrink?Heindicated thefancylightedbarshedalreadynoted. No,thankyou. Yousure?Mightsteadyyoualittle.

Implentysteady,thankyouverymuch.Howmanytimes didshehavetotellhimthatshewouldnotfallapart?She couldntaffordto.Ifshewantedto survivethis,shehadtokeephernervessteady.Latershe couldgiveintothepanickedhysteriathatstillgnawedon herfaadeofcalm. Shrugging,Daresatbesideherandfastenedhisseatbelt. Buckleup. Shescowledattheorderbutstillconnectedtheseatbelt aroundher. Liftinghisarmrestandturninginhisseat,heleanedforward withhiselbowsonhisknees,hishandshangingloosely.He studiedher. What?Justthenthepilotstartedtheengines,startling Molly.Shegrabbedforthearmrests.Weretakingoff? Itllbeeasiertogethomethatway. Shescowledagain.Sarcasmisunnecessary. Hesaidnothing.Mollyclearedherthroat.Whereishome, andwhenwillwegetthere? Kentucky,anditllbelate. Astheplanerolledforward,shesuckedinabreathandthen swallowedhard. Dareeyedher.So,youreoneofthosewomenwhopanicsat flying? No.Butshewas,sortof.Thattheplanewassosmalldidnt helpmatters.Rigidfromherheadtohertoes,sherepeated, almostbyrote,Imfine. Soyoukeepsaying. Hetookherhands,anditremindedherofthedifferencesin theirsizes.Darewashuge,andshewasnot.Hisbigrough

handstotallyengulfedhers, makingherfeelextrasmallanddelicate. Shedidntquiteknowwhattomakeofthat. Molly,lookatme. Whenshedid,shegotsnaredinhisbrightbluegaze.Hehad themostamazingeyes. Tellmewhyyouhaventcontactedyoursistertolether knowyoureokay. Thepilotannouncedsomethingoveraspeakersystem,and theplanemoved,jarringherheart.ShesqueezedDares handsandwhenshespoke,her voicewasalittletoohighandsqueaky.Nataliemightbea littleyoungerthanme,butshesateachermeaningshes usedtogoverningwithultimate power. Daredidntsmileatthatsmalljest.Yeah,so? SoifIhadcalledher,shedbegrillingmydadandAdrian andanyoneelseshethinkscouldberesponsible.Theresno wayNataliewouldntbeonthe warpath,trustme.Ifeitherofthemisinvolved,theymight becluedin.Theycouldhideevidenceor,inAdrianscase, maybeevenskiptown. Darelookedalittlestunnedatherreasoning,butdamnit, shecouldnttakechances. Whoeverdidthistome,Iwanthimtobetakenbysurprise whenheseesmefreeandunharmed.Iwanttoblowhis mind,andthenmaybehellgive himselfaway. ConsternationloweredDaresbrows.Notabadplan,really. Butyoudorealizethatwhoeverarrangedthismustalready

knowthatyourefree.Thatswhat thosethugsatWalmartwereabout. Iknow.Buttheydontknowwhentheyllseeme,orifthe thugswillgetmeagainbeforeitbecomesaconcern.Icant believetheylljustgiveup,which means Peoplearestillafteryou. Yes.Sheshiveredandthenshiveredsomemorewhenthe planebeganlifting.ShesqueezedDareshandsastightlyas shecould.Oh,God. Daresearchedherface,lookedresignedandmaybealittle expectant.Thenheleanedforwardandkissedheragain. Mollywassoshocked,sheleanedawayfromhimuntilhe pulledhishandsfreefromhersandcuppedherface, bringingherback. Hishandsholdinghershadbeenstartling;hishandsgently framingherfaceweremoreso. Thiskisswasnthardandfast.Itwaswarmandeasy,slow, lingeringandohsodistracting.Whenshedidntretreat again,heturnedhisheadtobetterfit theirmouthstogetheranddeepenedthekiss. Arushofheatchasedawayhericyfear.Herrigidmuscles wentliquid.Wow. Mollycaughthiswrists,butnottopryhimaway;sheheldon fordearlife.Beingthirtyyearsold,shedbeenkissedmany times,butneverhaditfeltlike this.Whenshemadeasmallsound,acrossbetweena moanandapurr,Darestrokedhisthumbsoverhercheeks. Asecondlater,hetouchedhistonguetohers. Heartpoundingandskinburning,Mollyforgotaboutthe

plane,aboutunscrupulousdogswhomeantherharm.Right now,forthismoment,therewasonly Dareandhiswarmthandintoxicatingscent,hisstrengthand thesecurityofhim,thewayhetastedandfeltandhowhe touchedher. Hesmoothedahandoverherface,overherhairand,toher regret,easedaway. Mollygothereyesopen,onlytofindthattheblueofhis lookedincendiary.Heglanceddownathermouth,easedhis thumbslowlyoverherbottomlipand, withafrown,settledbackintohisseat. She,ontheotherhand,perchedasfarforwardasherseat beltwouldallow,stillstrainingtowardDare.Withagasp, sherealizedhowthatlookedand floppedback.Again,sheclampedherhandsovertheendsof thearmrests. Herheartcontinuedtothunder,andherbodyburnedin selectplaces.ShecouldfeelDarelookingather,anditmade herbothuncomfortableandmore excited.Washewaitingforhertoreact? Well,thiswasnotsomethingshecouldignore.Thefirstkiss, maybe.Butthatkiss?Noway.Dare? Hewatchedherlikeahawkwatchedamouse,hisgaze unflinching,readyandalert,almostasifheexpectedherto bolt.Hmm? Thats,uh,thesecondtimeyouvekissedme. Hisgazewentbacktohermouth,hisvoicedeepened.Ican count. Shechewedherlips,sawhiseyesnarrowandquickly relaxedhermouthagain.Ratherthanaskadirectquestion

aboutChris,shesaid,Youwere distractingme,becausetheflight No. No?Butofcoursehewas.Wasnthe?Sheshookherhead. Therewassomuchshedidntknowabouthim,butshe didntwanttocrossthelineand becomeintrusiveintohisprivatelife.Idontunderstand whatitmeans. Hisgazeliftedbacktohers.Yes,youdo.Helookedoverher entirebody,ohsoslowly,beforecomingbacktoherface.It bothersyou? Botherher?Sheconsideredhisinterest,hisattention, andno.Itdidntbotherher,atleastnotthewayhemeant.If anything,shefeltwonderfullyflattered ifhewasntalreadyinvolvedwithsomeoneelse.Ijust dontunderstand. HellifIdoeither.Withawince,hestretchedouthislong legsasifuncomfortable.Notonce,beforeyou,haveIever comeontoawomanIrescued.In everyothercaseitwouldhavebeenunethical.Whenhe turnedhisheadtowardheragain,shesawhisfrustration andknewitwasmorewithhimselfthan withher.Inyourcase,noonehiredme,sothatrestriction isntthere. No,itisnt.Hewouldntbebetrayinganyonestrustto deliverherhomesafely,becauseshewastheonehiringhim. Andsheknewwithoutadoubtthatif shesaidno,Darewouldrespectthat. Butwhathappened,thehellthosebastardsputyou throughHisgazesearchedhers.Whathappenedjust

todayshouldbeenoughtoshutmedown. Why?Mollyreallydidntthinkshewantedhimshutdown. Hisexpressionturnedgrim.Youhaventexactlybeen aroundsterlingexamplesofmanhood,Molly. Shedbeenheldcaptivebytotalcretinswhohadnothingin commonwiththisremarkableman.Unabletohelpherself, sheputahandonhismuscular forearm.Butdontyousee,Dare?Thatswhyyoustandout evenmore.Yourevery,verydifferentfromthem. Iknowthat.Heworkedhisjaw.Doyou? Yes.Shehadntknownhimlong,butthethreatening situationhadgivenhimroomtoprovehimselfbeyondall measure. Noresidualeffects,then?Whenshejustlookedathim,not reallycomprehending,heshookhishead.Measuringeach wordwithcare,hesaid, Sometimes,afteratraumalikeyours,anythingremotely similarcantriggerthebadmemories,thepanic,even hysteria.Inyourcase,aguygettingtoo close Butyourenotjustanyguy.Mollyhopedhersmilemight reassurehim.Youaretheguywhogotmeoutofthat nightmare.Icouldneverfeelaboutyouhow Ifeelaboutthem. Unconvinced,Dareturnedhishandoverandwaitedforher tolaceherfingerswithhis.Shedidsohesitantly.Thiswas thefastestanyrelationshiphad evermovedforher,andtheunusualcircumstanceswere suchthatshedidntentirelytrustherownjudgment.Not thatshequestionedDareorhismotives.

Butherown? Shedidntwanttosmotherhimwithherneediness,an emotionnormallyforeigntoherbutplentyprevalentright now,nomatterhowshetriedtohideit. Heliftedherhand,strokedherknuckleswithhisthumb,and whileitwasthegentlestofgestures,hequicklyturnedvery businesslike. Wehavealottogetthrough,Molly.Morethanyouprobably realize.Gettingthegoonsoffyourasswillbetheeasiestpart. Findingoutwhoarrangedyour abductionthatsgoingtotakesomedoing.Andtrustmeon this,thetruthisntgoingtobesatisfying.Itsanecessity,but itwontmakeyoufeelbetter, anditwontsoftenthememory. Howdoyouknow?Morethananything,shelooked forwardtonailingtheonesresponsible.Sheneededsome closureonthislivingnightmare. Foronething,itsalmostalwayssomeoneyouknow,and someoneyoudneversuspect.Heheldherhandtighter. Becauseitsusuallysomeoneyou havearelationshipwith. Herheartsqueezedtight.ButIstillhavetoknow. Ofcourseyoudo.Andforthatreason,Ihaveamillion questionsIhavetoask,andIcanguaranteeitsnotgoingto beeasyforyou.Inquisitionsseldom are.ButitsinformationIneed Itsokay.Mollylickedherlips.Ififthisisgoingtobeas hardasyousay,thenwhatdoyousuggestIdo? Hiseyesnarrowed.Forstarters,beonehundredpercent honestwithme,always.

Allright.Shedneverbeenadeceptivepersonanyway,and now,morethanever,sheknewthathonestyovereverylittle detailreallymattered. Heunbuckledherseatbelt.Ispecificallyrequestedno stewardessontheplanetoensurethatwewerealone. Youdid?Beforeshecouldaskwhy,heliftedherovertosit inhislap. Heleanedtheseatbackandarrangedhersothattheywere bothcomfortable.Youstillneedtocatchuponyoursleep. Thismightbeagoodtime. Withherfaceagainsthischest,hisscentsurroundingher, Mollyallowedthelethargytoseepin.Shewasexhausted, andsomehowDarehadknownthat onceshegotsettledsoclosetohim,givingintotheneedfor restwouldbeeasier. Afteralustyyawn,shegatheredherthoughts.Yousaidyou havequestions. Ido. Hislefthandrestedlooselyatherhip,andhisrighthandwas behindher,keepingherclose.Mollyfeltsecureandsafe. So? Theyllwaituntilwereatmyplaceafterwevebothslept andeaten. Thatworkedforher,butWell,Ihavesomequestions, then. Hetuckedinhischintolookdownather,sawthatshewas seriousandrelaxedbackagain.Shoot. Itwaseasierlikethis,withouthimlookingrightather. Youreattractedtome? Hisshortlaughrumbledfromhischestbeneathherear.

Definitely.Helookeddownatheroncemore.Youhad doubtsaboutthat? Idontknow.ShehaddoubtsaboutChris,butforthe moment,atleast,itwaseasytopushthoseconcernsfrom hermind.Youredifferentfromother menIveknown. Notsodifferent.IhadtofightoffabonersoIcouldholdyou likethiswithoutmaybescaringyouoff. Hisplainspeakingfascinatedher,butshedidntdwellon that.Imnotscaredofyou,Dare. No,hesaidslowly,youarent,areyou?Butneitherofus yetknowshowreadyyoureallyare.Youreholdingit together,soletsdonttestthewaterstoo much,okay? Honestly,shewassowipedout,andstillfeltsoraw,she didntmindthatsuggestionatall.Thethingis,Idontgetit. Whatsnottoget? Imhardlyatmybestrightnow.Physically,Imean.Ilook like Youvebeenabusedforninedays.Yeah,Iknow.Hegave heralittlesqueeze.Bruisesandfatiguecantcamouflage whatsthere,Molly.Yourestillan attractivewoman.Butlooksarenttheonlydraw. Whatelse?Hedidntknowherwellenoughtolikeher personality.Ordidhe? BraveryissomethingIadmirealot.Intelligence,ingenuity, control,logic.Youvegotitallinspades,lady,andIthinkits sexyashell. Evenbeforeshedbeentaken,herbreakupwithAdrianand herfatherscensurehadleftherstrugglingforher

selfconfidence.Somanyaccoladesnow putheronthevergeofbeingweepy.Shedidntfeelbraveor ingenious.Shefeltused,duped,angryand,deepdown,very scared. Twistingaroundalittle,shehalfsatupandlookedatDare. Thosemendidntkissme. No? Sheshookherhead.Youdonthavetoworryaboutme overreactingtothat. Foronlyaninstant,heflashedthatcrookedgrinagain.Then somethingmuchhotterreplacedthehumor.Youwant anotherkiss,doyou? Ireallydo. Darelookedatherbruisedcheekbone,atanotherfading markbeneathhereye.Theyhityou.Hisvoiceroughened; hishandsonhertightenedinasign ofprotectiveness.Andbityou. Mollydrewinathinbreath.Shecouldntdenyit,butright nowtherealityofthatseemedfurtheraway.Yourenot tryingtodoeither. Forthelongesttimehewatchedher,tryingtogaugeher mood,sheknew.Mollyjustwaited,anticipationheightened, tensioncoiling. Hesaidverysoftly,withsuggestion,Well,maybethebite, yeah? Sheblinked,herbodyclenchingwithinterestasheleanedin, eversoslowly,towardherneck.Shefelthishotbreathfirst, thenthefeatherlightpressof hismouth,thesensualtouchofhisdamptongueand,lastly, thelightgrazingofhissharpteethalongherskin.

Herbreathcaughtloudenoughthathepaused,butwhenshe didntpullaway,heresumedteasingher,makinghertoes curl,herstomachflutter.He openedhismouthandtreatedhertoatantalizinglovebite thatsentliquidsensationthroughoutherwholebody. Nearherear,hewhispered,Now,whenyouthinkofbiting, thinkofme,okay? Caughtupinbuildingneed,Mollywrappedherhands aroundthebackofhisneckandsoughthismouth.She actuallyneededhiskissasmuchifnotmore thansheneededsleep. Easy,hewhispered,andthenhismouthwasonhers, takingandgiving,consumingherawarenessofeverything buthim. Evenashiskissovershadowedherworries,shewondered: Howwasthissodifferent?Beforenow,shedthoughtakiss wasakisswasakiss.Some wereexciting,someweresoso,butkissingDarecauseda singulareffectinher. Inananosecond,akissfromhimratchetedupherneed.She wasntanoverlysexualwomanatthebestoftimes,andthis, mostdefinitely,wasnotthe bestoftimes.Sheshouldhavebeensleepingashed suggested,andinstead Hegaveherhistongue,andeverythinginhertightenedwith desire. Mollytriedtoscootclosertohim,intohim.Sheletherhands wanderoverhisbroad,hardshoulders,downoverbulging pecsandlowerstilltohisflat abdomen.Alloverhewassolid,hotandpowerful.

ShegotonehandinunderhisTshirt,madecontactwithhis sleekskin,uphissidetohismuscularbackandthenshe feltitthetelltaleriseofan erectionbeneathherhip. Hepulledhismouthawaywithalowcurse. Dare?Shewasbreathingtoohardandfast.You Iknow.Trustme,itsnotsomethingIdmiss. Incredibly,Mollyrolledinherlipsandtriedtofigureoutthe possibilitiesofthescenario.Sheglancedoverhershoulder towardthecockpitthathousedthe twopilots.Aslongastheystayedthere,sheandDarehad moderateprivacy. Daregaveagrufflaugh.Forgetit.Nothappening. Thathedsoeasilyreadherthoughtsleftherblushing. Heshookhishead.Youresomethingelse,youknowthat? Hekissedherhardandquickbeforeurgingherheadtohis shoulder.Iwantyoutotryand sleep.Ineedsometimetothink. Toescurledandbodythrobbing,Mollyforcedherselfto relaxagainsthim.Shehopedhewasntthinkingofhowto handleher.Shedidntwanttobe handled.Shewasntsurewhatshewanted,really.Except maybemore Beforeshecouldfinishthatthought,Darekissedheronthe topofthehead.Youremorefragilethanyourealize,Molly Alexander.Hecaughtherchin, turningherfacetowardhim.Dontpushyourself.Iwant youthatsnotgoingtochange.IcantsayIwontkissyou, buthowfarandhowfastwegoisup toyou.

DearGod,didhemeanshedhavetoask? Hismouthtippedinacrookedsmile.Youreabiggirl,Molly, andyouhavealotofbackbone.Whenyoureready,youcan tellme. But Formysake,letsgiveyousometimetocometogripswith everything.Okay? Shedidntknowherselfrightnow,somaybehewasright. Besides,shedidnthavethesexualsavvytoinsist.Okay. Sheclosedhereyesand,withDareshandstrokingoverher back,graduallyfadedintoadeep,untroubledsleep. EVENWHENTHEPILOTSvoicebrokeoverthespeaker systemannouncingtheweatherforecastfortheirlanding, whichwasthankfullyclearanddry, Mollyslept. Hoursago,theyhadlandedtorefuel,andshedsleptthrough it.Dareglancedathiswatch.Hewouldhaveeatenonthe planeifhecouldhavewithout wakingher.Nowitwaswellpastdinnertimeandtheystill hadanhourtodriveaftertheylefttheairport.A drivethroughburgerwouldhavetodo,because hewasntstopping,wasnttakinganychanceswithheratall. Hedfeelbetteraboutthingsoncehehadhersecuredonhis grounds. Whileshedbeenutterlylaxinhisarms,hedstudiedevery inchofher,allthewhilesortingthroughwhatheknewof her,andwhathedidnt.Thatshed survivedamazedhim.Howshedsurvivedwasthekicker.

Shehadplentyofbackbone,andsomuchbravadothathe couldnthelpbutadmireher. Seemedhecouldnthelpwantingher,either. Thoughsheobviouslydidntknowit,Mollywasasexymixof innocence,courage,independenceandhonesty.Thecombo hithimonagutlevel.Ithad beenahellofalongtimesinceawomanhadreallygottento him.Hedmadeapointofnotlettingthem. ButwithMolly,shegotunderhisskinwithouteventrying. Maybethatwasitthatshewasnttrying.Shewasjust herself,anappealing,woundedwomandeterminedto confrontherownpersonalrealityheadon. Whateverthecause,hehadtorememberallthatshed sufferedsothathedidntrushherintoanything. Beyondthat,hedidntwanttosethimselfup,either. Shestirredagain,andsincetheplanewouldsoonbelanding, Darewokeher.Feelbetter? Hisvoicemusthavereachedher,becauseshewentstillbut didntopenhereyes.Breathingdeepandslow,caughtinthe enchantmentbetween wakefulnessandslumber,shesmiledandcurledcloser. Warmedbyhertrust,Darebentandkissedthebridgeofher nose,andthenscowledovertheimpulsivemove.Hehadto backoff.Wakeup,woman.He jostledheralittle.Idliketogettomyhousebefore midnight. Midnight?Blinkingheavyliddedeyes,shehalfsatup,took inhersurroundingsandselfconsciouslysmoothedherhair. Itllbethatlate? Damnbutshelookedsweetallsleepylikethis.Dependson

howlongittakesthemtolandandletusofftheplane.Then wehaveanhoursdrive. Herstomachrumbled,andsheduckedherhead.Ivebeen asleepawhile. Meaningshewashungry,too?Iwanttomakegoodtime, butIplantogetsomefastfoodtoeatonthefly. SoundsgoodFacegoingpink,shesuddenlyremembered thatshewasstillinhislap.Sheeasedoverintoherownseat. Whateveryouwanttodois fine. Withadrytone,Dareteased,Really? Nodding,shefastenedherseatbeltaroundher.ImsorryI conkedoutlikethat.Shecasthimasidewayslook.You shouldhavewokenmeoratleast toldmetogetinmyownseat. Ididntmind.Infact,hedenjoyedit.Butnowheneededto stretchhislegsandtendtootherneeds.Theyonlyhadafew minutesbeforetheplanewould beginitslanding.Illberightback. Hewenttothelavatorytorelievehimselfandfreshenup. Coldwateronhisfacedidnothingtoclarifyhisjumbled thoughts.SoonhedhaveMolly ensconcedinhishome,wherehedneverevenbroughta womanfordinner,muchlessinvitedhertostay. Runningahandoverhisface,Dareimaginedhowitmightbe withMollythere,howshedreacttohisgirlsandChris. Fuck.Stewingoveritinthetiny airplanejohnwouldnthelp,andhewasntamanwho believedinstewinganyway.Hewasaproactiveperson.Ifhe didntlikesomething,hechangedit.

WithMolly,hedjusthavetowaitandsee. Hereturnedtofindherlookingindesperateneedherself. Goahead.Butmakeitquick,okay?Hewaitedintheaisle forherasshedashedoutofher seat,andwhileshewasgone,hepouredherajuiceoverice andlocatedsomemixednutsforthemboth. Shewasbuckledbackinherseataminutelater,gratefulfor thejuiceandsnack,andlessthanhalfanhourafterthat,a shuttledroppedthemoffinthe longtermparkingarea,andDare,withacloseeyeonhis surroundings,loadedherintohisSUV. Whathisgirlswouldthinkofher,hecouldntimagine.He knewdamngoodandwellhowChriswouldfeel,though: territorialandantagonistic.Butthen thatshowChrisusuallyfeltabouteverything.Dare consideredthosesomeofhisfinerqualities. CHAPTERSIX ITWASNEARINGelevenoclockwhenDarepulleddownthe longdrivetohishome.Mollyhadbeenmostlyquietduring theride,excepttothankhimfor thefeastofahamburger,friesandmilkshake. OnethingaboutMolly:shewasstillputtingthefoodaway.If shealwaysatelikethis,shehadtohaveonehellofafast metabolismtostaysopetite.Ata littleoverfiveandahalffeettall,shehadcurvesaplenty,but inalltherightplaces.Herlimbswereslim,andshehada tinywaist.Whenhedheldher,he knewsheweighednexttonothing.Shemighthavelost weightinherninedaysofcaptivity,butitcouldnthavebeen

toosubstantialorshewouldnthave physicallyrecoveredsoquickly. Sowasshealwaysstacked?Didshemaintainthatfigure evenwhilehidingitfrommost?Shewasntaflaunterhe knewthatrightoff.Withwomen,you couldalwaystellwhichoneslikedtobefrontandcenter, usingtheirbodiestodrawattention. Mollydidntlackconfidence,butithadlittletodowithher figureandalottodowithherintelligence. Ashenearedtheirdestination,shelistenedtohisCD collectionandbrooded.Shewasasurvivor,solikelyshed putherbraintothetaskofgoingovera varietyofscenariosinanattempttobeprepared.Afutile effort,butDarewouldnttellherso. ShewassoinvolvedinherownthoughtsthatDareknewshe didntrealizetheywerealmosthome. Bydeliberatemeans,hisplacewassetwaybackinthe woods,hiddenbytallevergreensandavarietyof hardwoods,withanarrowroadthatclimbedup tothemaingate.Thewaytheroadtwistedandturnedinand aroundtreeshelpedtohideit. Hedplanneditthatway. Headlightsshoneontheimpressiveandornateironfencing thatenclosedthefrontofhisproperty.Therestoftheland, allfifteenacres,wasprotected withelectricfencing.Onlythelakeofferedfreeaccess,but that,too,wassecuredwithlightsandalarms. Agog,Mollytwistedinherseattolookouteachwindow, takingintheview.Thisiswhereyoulive?Seriously? Yeah.

Shedroppedbackintoherseat.Itslikevacationproperty. Prettymuch.Oncehereachedthesecuritygate,Mollywent silent.Allmovementstopped,andshestaredasDarerolled downawindowandpunchedin aprivatecodethatopenedthegates.Hedrovebeyondthem andtheyclosedagain. Shejuststared. Inresponsetohermuteamazement,Daretoldher,Be prepared. Sheblinkedfastasiftorefocus.Forwhat? Chriswillcomeouttomeetus.Mygirls,too. Aftermoisteningdrylipswithaquicklick,shesaid,Iheard youmentionthem.Onthephone,Imean.Backatthemotel room. HerstiltedspeechamusedDare.Idolovemygirls. Sheclearedherthroat.Chris,too? Definitely.Knowingshedidntentirelyunderstand,and willingtoteaseher,Daresaid,Chriswilltrytointimidate you,sobeprepared. Sheclearedherthroat.Chrisis? Housekeeper,manager,assistantprettymuch everything. Everything?sheasked,hervoicehighandfaint. Darecouldnthelpbutgrin.Sure.Andthen,Justaskhim. Helltellyouhowimportantheis. Herjawloosened.Hewill?Then,beforeDarecouldreply, Chrisisaguy?Andthenwithconfusion,Youlivewith anotherman? Yeah. Doeshehaveawife?Ormaybeagirlfriend?

No.Dareknewshewastryingtofigureoutthedynamic.He waitedtwoheartbeats,thensaid,Chrisisgay. Gay?Mystified,shestaredathim.Butyourenot? Daregaveheralook.Areyouactuallyaskingmethat? BecauseIthoughtIdmademysexualpreferencespretty clearalready. Ithoughtyoudid,too.ButthenyoukeptmentioningChris andyourgirls,andIwasntsurewhattothink. Imnotinvolvedwithanyone. Good.Hereyeswidenedwhenshesaidthat,andshe quicklyclarified,Imeanokay.Thoughtsvisiblychurning, shetookinthewoodsandthedirt roadthatchangedtopavement,andthenthelandscapingas itopeneduptohishome.Shefellbackinherseat. Thesightofmanicuredlawnsunderbrightlightsthat flickeredonwiththeirprogressdistractedher. Mollygaveup.Okay,then,sinceyouandChrisdonthave thatkindofrelationship,whywouldhewanttointimidate me? Suspicion,mostlikely.Andbecausethatexplanationdidnt suffice,Dareadded,Ineverbringwomenhere.Hell,Idont bringanyonehere.Youreafirst. Herinterestedgazetransferredtohim.Youdont? Dareshookhishead. Butwhy? Policy.Heglancedather,sawherfrowningandsaid, Dontworryaboutit,okay? Pullingaroundthecirculardrive,Darestoppedinfrontof thepedimentedentry.Warmlightspouredthroughthecut glassinthedoor,thetransomandthe

sidelights,spillingontothefrontporchandoutontothe pavedwalkway.Thedoubledoorsopenedandhisgirlsshot outinberserkjoy.Eachofthemhad astuffedtoyclampedinherteeth. Chriscametostandatthetopstep.Hefoldedhisarmsover hisbarechestandwaited. Eyeswideningevenmore,Mollyaskedinawhisper,Isthat him? Wonderingwhatshedexpected,DareglancedatChris.His personalassistantstoodthereshirtless,sloppyshorts hanginglow,feetbare.Hisshaggy blackhairbecameevenmoredisheveledbyabriskwind. Shakinghishead,DareacceptedthatChrislookednothing likeabusinesspersonandverymuchlikealakebum.Ithink wevekepthimuppasthis bedtime. Oh,dear.CastingDareasidewaysglance,shesaid,Hewas waitingupforyou? Yeah. Isthatpartofhisjobdescription,orjustbecausehewas concerned? Mostlikely,itwascuriosity.Daregrinnedather.Chrisand Iarebestfriends.Likebrothers,really. Sheletoutherbreath,butaskedwithaccusation,Didyou knowwhatIthought? Maybe.Tampingdownhisgrin,Daresaid,Itgaveyou somethingtothinkaboutbesidesyourkidnapping. Shefrownedathimbutsaidnothingmore. Andtherearemybeautifulgirls,SargeantandTairee, betterknownasSargieandTai.

Eyesrounding,MollystaredasthetwoLabsbounded towardthem. Dogs,Mollysaid,nowcompletelyexasperated.SoChrisis aguy,andyourgirlsareanimals. Theyremembersofthefamily.Impatienttoseethem, Daredidntpullonaroundintothegarage.Beforehehadthe SUVinPark,thedogswereathis door,jumpingwithundilutedjoy.Theydroppedtheirtoysto yap,barkandmakeotherdognoisesofpleasure. Foronlyamoment,DarewasabletotakehisfocusoffMolly. Heopenedthedoorandwasgreetedwithsloppykisses, snufflingandwildlythumpingtails. Laughing,hestrokedthemboth,takingthetimetoscratch Taisbackjustabovehertail,whichwasherfavoritespot andneverfailedtoputherintoa doggytrance.SargieimmediatelydidherChewbacca impersonation,sortofagrowlingyodelofeagerness,until herubbedherears. Comeon,ladies.Ihavesomeoneforyoutomeet.He roundedthecarbutnotintimetoopenMollysdoorforher. Aftersteppingout,shelookedatboth dogsandgaveahugegrin. Ithoughtyouhaddaughters.Orsomething. Somethingfurry,hetoldher.ThedogseyedMolly, determinedshewasfairgameandchargedovertoher. Mollywenttoonekneeamistakegiventhatbothgirlstook thatasaninvitationandimmediatelyknockedhertothe groundsotheycouldjumponher, slobberonherandgenerallygiveherloadsofwetdog affection.

Waitingtoseehowshedreact,Darecrossedhisarmsand watched.Ifsheactedlikesheneededhelp,orwasafraid,of coursehedintervene.Butifshe wasgoingtostaywithhimforaspell,andshewas,she neededtoknowhowtodealwithhisdogs. Tohissurpriseandpleasure,Mollylaughed. Oh,myGod,theyreenormous.Catchingacollarineach hand,shemovedthedogsbackenoughtositupagain.She openedherarmsandembraced themboth.ThatsthemostlovingIvehadinforever. Interesting.DarepulledSargieaway.Shesseventypounds. AndthisbeastofagirlheretrievedTaiisasolid eightyfive.Taiistheolderand calmerofthetwo,butthatsnotsayingmuch.Theyboth thinktheyreLapradorsinsteadofLabradors.Ifyoureon theirlevel,theyllsitonyou.Oratleast tryto. GuessIllhavetorememberthatnotthatIminded, though.Itsnicetobesoaccepted. Becauseshewasntusedtoit?Shedsaidmanyofher readerscouldcountassuspects,too.Family,readers, exfiancHeneededtostartmakinga damnedlist. Holdingoutahandtoher,Darehauledhertoherfeetand waitedwhileshedustedoffthatlushbackside. Bothdogsnowsatontheirhaunches,stilltremblingwith energyandexcitementbutcuriousaboutMolly,too. Sheofferedahandforthemtosniffandthentookturns pettingthem.Taigaveherasoulfullook,earningahug.I loveanimals.Dadwantednothingtodo

withpetswhenIwasgrowingup,andmyapartmentdoesnt allowthem.Idactuallybeenthinkingofgettingmyown housejustsoIcouldgetadog. Probablynotoneasbigasyours,though. Darecouldntimaginenothavingpetsaround.Theywere partofthewelcomehegotwheneverhehadtimeawayfrom work.Houseordog? Grinning,shesaid,BothbutIwastalkingaboutthedogs. Shestraightened,lookedbeyondthemtohishomeand shookherheadinwonder.And hereIdthoughttoimpressyouwithmysuccess.Whata joke. Iamimpressed. Atleastenoughtoletmehireyou,knowingIcanpayup. Butweshouldprobablydiscussterms,dontyouthink? Soon.Hereleasedthedogstoretrievehisduffelfromthe SUV,andthenputahandtothesmallofMollysbacktoget hermovingforward.ThatsChris ontheporch.Hellstandthereandstareallnight. Underherbreath,Mollysaid,Hesasbigasyouare. Imbigger,Chrisannounced,ifyouknowwheretolook. Knockitoff,Chris.ButDarewastryingnottolaugh. Aghast,Mollywhispered,Heheardme? Hehearseverything,Christoldher.Youmightwantto rememberthat. Voicescarryhere,Dareexplainedinanormaltone, especiallyatnight.Itsthelakethatdoesthat. Theresalake? Hecouldshowherthatlater.Rightnowhewantedtogether outofthechillnightair,getthembothsettledandeatreal

food.Therewasaworldof differenceinMarchweatherbetweenKentuckyand California.Hesawhershiveringandwishedthathed thoughttobuyherajacket. Letsgetyouinside. Thedogsranupthestepsaheadofthem,butthenranback downandupagain. DarestoppedbeforeChris.Molly,meetChrisChapey,my personalassistant.Chris,thisis Thecomplication.Iknow.ButChrisnosoonersaidthat thanhegotagoodlookatMollyinthelight.Arrested,he studiedherface,sawtheinjuries,the marksofabuse.DidDaredragyouhere? Weretired,Chris.Canyousavethesarcasmforlater?After Iveeaten,maybe? HisgazewentoverMolly,andhisbrowscamedownproof thatChrisabhorredabuseasmuchasDaredid. Notaproblem.StillwithhisattentiononMolly,Chrissaid toDare,Justtellmethatsomeonepaidforthis. Oh,yeah. Henoddedwithsatisfaction.Gladtohearit. Tobreaktheawkwardexchange,Mollyclearedherthroat. Itssonicetomeetyou,Mr.Chapey.Sheheldoutahand. MollyAlexander.Pleasecallme Molly.Herobviouseagernesstomakehisacquaintance stymiedbothmen. DarewatchedinamazementasChrisgaveinandtookher hand.Ofcourse,Mollywasntjustanywomanposingasan interloper;shewasawoman badlyvictimizedwhostillhadabackboneofsteel.

Whocouldbeimmunetothat? MollyenfoldedChrisshandinbothofhers.Imsorrythat wevekeptyoufromyourbed.IpromisethatImgoingtotry tostayoutofyourway.Idontwant tobeabother. Giventheshapeshewasin,thattookChrisaback.Heglanced atDareinconfusion,thensaid,Definitelycomplicated. Dareleanedagainsttheouterentrywall.Toldyouso. Igetupearly,Chrissaidinanuncharacteristiceffortto explainhimself.Crackofdawntorunwiththedogs. Otherwise Itotallyunderstand.Andagain,myapologiesformessing upyourroutine. ChrissroutineiswhateverIsayitis. Chrisnarrowedhiseyesathim.Doesthatmeanyoullbe runningthedogstomorrow? Yeah,itdoes. Great.ThenIllsleepin. Fraidnot.DarehalfgrinnedashetoldChris,Ihavealong listofthingsforyoutodo. Mollyignoredtheirexchangeand,stillholdingChrisshand, said,Mr.Chapey,youretheonewhosetupthechartered flight,right? ItsChris,andyeah,ImakeallofDarestravel arrangements. Thankyousomuchforthat.Iwasdreadingacommercial flightafterwell,everything. Incaseshedidntunderstand,Chrissaid,thistimeslowly, ItswhatDaretoldmetodo. Iunderstandthat,butyoudiditsoquicklyandyourchoice

wasterrific.Ireallydoappreciateit. ShewaskillingChriswithkindnessandDarelovedit. Yeah,well,noproblem.HegaveDareahelpmelook. Mollyfinallyfreedhishand.Goodgrief,Imkeepingyouout heretalkingwhenyouhavetobefreezing. Imfinebutyouhavegoosebumps. Itsprobablyonlyfiftydegreeshere,anddamp,too.She rubbedherarms.AtleastImdressed,butyoureallbut naked. Chrissbrowsshotup.Imwearingshorts. Thatbarelycoveryou. Heshiftedhisstance,putoffbywhatsoundedlikecensure. Isthatacomplaint? Hersmiledidntquiteansweronewayortheother.Itisso beautifulhere.Sheturnedafullcircle.Andsoincredibly quiet. Secure,too,Daretoldher.Then,tiredoftheverbalgames, heaskedChris,Youresetthealarmcodes? Soonasyouclearedthegate.AndIwentgroceryshopping foryou,too.Freshfoodisinthekitchen.AfterIputyourcar away,Icouldcookyou something Illtakecareofit.HeturnedtoMolly.Chrismakesalousy cook. Saysthemasterchef. Mollylookedimpressed.Youreamasterchef? Puresarcasm.Chrisusheredheralongandthenheldthe dooropenforher.Butheisgood.Atfreakineverything.So getusedtoit. Mollysteppedinsideandwentawestruckagain.Holycow.

Chrispaidnoattentiontoher.Wasntsureifyouneededit ornot,butIfreshenedupthebackbedroomupstairs. Thanks.Illgethersettled. Wantmetoputyourthingsaway? Normally,yes,butthistimeDaresprioritywasMolly,not checkingmessages.Illdoit. Okay,then.Illberightback.HetookthekeysfromDare andstrolledouttotheSUV. DAREWATCHEDMOLLYASshelookedaroundthecentral foyer. Itsamansion. Notreally.Hewasamanofcomfort,and,assuch,though thehousehadalotofamenities,itwasntfancyenoughtobe calledamansion. Illgetlostinhere. Dareshookhishead.Iwouldntexpectsomeonewithyour backgroundtobeinaweofahouse. Shegavehimatellinglook.Iveknownplentyofwealthy people,andtheyrenotatalllikeyou.WhatImeanis,you dontactlikeyourerich.Youretoo niceandnormalforthat. Gladyouthinkso.Withatotaloffortyfivehundredfeetof livingspace,thehousewasexpansive.Butitwasdividedup inafunctionalway.Tohelp Mollygetacclimated,Daresaid,Thinkofitascircular. Everythingrevolvesfromthisspot.Dininghallontheleft, libraryontheright.Straightahead,upthe curvingstairs,areastudioandthreeotherbedrooms.Youll

havearoomupthere. Shejerkedaroundtostareathimwithclearalarm.Where doyousleep? Indicatingbeyondthestairs,onthemainfloor,Daresaid, Masterbedroomandbathareontheright,endofthehallis thegreatroom,thenthekitchen, morningroom,laundryandfamilyroomaretotheleft. Asthedogsmovedclosertoher,theirnailstappedonthe marblefloor,drawingherattentionthere.Shelookeddown atthem,thenupattherecessed ceilingsandgiant,rusticchandelier.Itsgorgeous.And enormous. Thanks.Darepickeduphisduffelandagaintouchedthe smallofherback,urginghertowardthestairsaheadofhim. Illshowyoutoyourroom.The dogsstartedforwardinanticipation. HegotherhalfwayupthestairsbeforeMollyresisted, glancingupathim.Whoelsesleepsupthere? Noone.Ihavethemastersuite,andChrisstaysinthelake house.Thinkingshewasworriedaboutprivacy,Dare assuredher,Youllprettymuchhave thewholeupstairstoyourself. Jawloosening,sheturnedcompletelyaroundonthemiddle ofthestairstofacehim.Thedogs,too,lookedatDarewith expectation.Youhaveanother house? Acabin,really,downclosertothelake.Henoticedthepink tingetohercheeks,howherlipsparted,thewayshetucked herhairbehindherear.Its smallbutfunctional.AndChrisvalueshavingspacehecan

callhisown.MostlybecausehesaslobandImnot. GoodGod,afootballteamcouldliveinthishouseandhave plentyofspace. Darecouldnthelphimself;heleanedforwardandkissed her.Withherastepabovehim,itwastheperfectfit.Youll besafehere,Molly,noreasontobe concerned.Thehouseiswiredforstateoftheartsecurity. Knowthatyoullbeprotected. Shetouchedhermouthandcontinuedtolookreluctant.I wasntwasntworriedaboutthat. Yeah,youwere.Butitsunderstandable.Hell,Idbemore concernedifyouwerent.Now,comeon.Hetookthelead, steppingaroundherandgoingup therestofthestairs.Thedogsfollowedhiminarush.The backbedroomfacesthelake.Ithinkyoulllikeit. HowcouldInot?Itsallincredible.Verymasculine,but somehowposh,too. Itsrelaxedsuitablefordogsandtwomen.Darewaited atthetopofthestairs,watchingher. Imsureyouguysareverycomfortablehere,butawoman couldbe,too.Shefollowedhimup.Whodidyour decorating? Pleasedwithher,Dareturnedtowardoneofthebedrooms. Idid. Oh,thatsright.Shetwistedhermouth.Chrissaidyou weregoodateverything. Chrisispaidtobebiased.Thedogsforgedaheadofhim, tryingtoanticipatehisdestination. Butyoutwoarefriends,too.Yousaidhesnotjustan employee.

Weregoodfriends,havebeenforyears.Overtwenty years,actuallybutthatwasastoryforanothertime. Darewentintothesecondlargestbedroomandsethisduffel onaqueensizefourposterbed.Itwasmadeupwithsoft, warm,handsewnquiltsand luxurioussheets. Thedogscircledtheperimeteroftheroom,tryingtowatch bothDareandMollyasshelookedlostandheunloadedthe fewclothesandtoiletriescurrently inherpossession.Itwasntmuch,butrightnow,herewith him,shedidntneedmuch. Attemptingtohideheranxietyfromhim,shepattedthedogs andthenwenttopeekintothebathroom. Shewouldbecomfortablehere,Daretoldhimself. Sowhywashefeelingguilty? Handsonhiships,hetrackedhereverymovement,tryingto gaugehermood,todetermineawaytoreassureherwithout crossingboundaries.Hell,hed alreadycrossedsomanylinesitshouldntmatter anymorebutitdid. Goaheadandputyourstuffinthedrawers,setuphowever youwant,makeyourselfathome.Thetelevisionremotesare ontheshelf.ThereareDVDsin thelibraryifyouwanttohuntthroughthose.Youcanbring abunchuphereifyouwant. Thanks. Damnit,shesoundedsolost.Thecomputerishookedupto theinternet,sofeelfreetosurf,toentertainyourself.But dontcheckanypersonalaccounts. Idontwantyoutosigninunderyournameforanything.Its

tooeasytotrack. Okay.SheshowedlittleinterestintheTVorthecomputer. Morefrustratedbythesecond,Darenarrowedhiseyes.If youneedanythingelse,justask. ShewentovertolookouttheFrenchdoorsthatopenedonto asmalldeckoverlookingtheyardbelowwhichleddown tothelake.Fromthedeck,she couldjustseeChrissresidenceandthedockbeyondthere, theboathouse,thereflectionofthemoonofflightlylapping water. Silencefilledtheroom. Molly. SheleanedagainstthedoorsandavoidedlookingatDare.I knowitslate Notthatlate.Shedsleptthroughouttheflight,soshe probablywasntreadytoretireyet.Wasthatwhatcaused herworry?Didshethinkhedbringher hereandthenabandonher?Idontknowaboutyou,butIm hungryforrealfood.Whydontyoutakeafewminutesto yourselfandthenmeetme downstairsinthekitchen.Illgetussomethingtoeat. Tensionfelloutofhershoulders.Okay. Shedidntdenybeinghungry.Again.ButDarewasalmost positiveitwasthereprievefrombeingalonethathad relaxedher.Whydidntshejusttellhim that? Confoundingwoman. Youhavetimetotakeashowerifyouwant. Sheinhaledandletoutalongbreath.Okay.Thanks. Darecrossedhisarms.Damnit,Molly,ifyouhave

somethingonyourmind Shespunaroundwithafalsesmile.No,Imfine.Everything isfine.Terrific.Gogetyourfood.Illfreshenupandberight down. Hewaited,wonderingifheshouldpresstheissue.Shed beenthroughsomuchthattherehadtobeawful,residual effects.Whatdidhereallyknowof howawomanreactedtothesethings?Sofar,everything hedexpectedfromherhadbeenoff.Nohysterics,no uncontrollablesobbingorraginganger. Really,Dare.Imfine.Lookingforwardtoashower, actually. Daredidntbelieveawordofit,butstandingtherestaringat herwasntgoingtohelp.Towelsareinthebathroom.Come ondownwhenyourefinished. IhopeIdontgetlost.Shetriedasmilethatdidntquite makeittoherwarmbrowneyes.Movingtothedoorbyway ofencouraginghimtoleave,she said,Illonlybeafewminutes. Takeyourtime.Hestartedout,butthedogshesitated, whining,lookingfromMollytoDareandbackagain.He rolledhiseyes.Shelljoinussoon enough.Comeon.Hepattedhisthigh,andfinallythedogs cametohim. Together,theyleft,butDaredidntlikeit.SurelyMolly wantedtheprivacyofherownbedroom,herownbathroom. Itwasntlikehewasleavingheralonein astrangeplace.Hedberightdownstairs. But,damnit,hedidntwanttobe. Ifithadntbeensoinappropriate,hewouldhavedragged

Mollydownontothebedandjustheldher.Allnight. Asiftheyfelthismood,TaiandSargiekeptgivinghim sympatheticglances. Itsahellofathing,isntit?Trustme,Idontlikebeing confusedanymorethanyoudo. Thedogswhinedinreturn. BythetimehestowedhisduffelinhisroomandjoinedChris inthekitchen,hismoodhadsouredevenmore.Withitwell pasttheirbedtime,thedogs wentstraightfortheirfavoritespotintheattachedmorning room.Theyeachhadapaddedbedplacedbeforethewallof windows.Onlymoonlightshone through,buttheyfloppeddowntowallowinit,andthey weresoonasleep. ChrishandedDareacupofcoffee,whichwasalwaysthefirst orderofbusiness.IsMs.AppleDumplingturninginforthe night? Takingashowerandthisisnotimeforyoutobean asshole,solayoffofher,willyou?Hetastedthecoffeeand commendedChriswithanod.Ithad takenhimnearlyamonthtoteachChristherightratioof freshlygroundcoffeebeanstowatertobrewtime.Nowhe haditdownpat,anditwasoneluxury Daremissedwhileoutontheroad. Isawthebruises.Chrisleanedbackagainstthecounter andfoldedhisarmsoverhischest.Someonereallyputitto her? Severalsomeones. Heacknowledgedthat,thensaid,Ihopetheyarentstill living.

Darerubbedahandoverhistiredeyes.Thathekilledwhen necessarywasntasurpriseforChris,oranemotional burdenforDare.Itookcareofthem. Butnow,inhindsight,hewishedlikehellthathewouldhave keptoneofthefuckersaroundtoquestion. Chriswascurious,butasusual,hewasntprying.Itwasyet anotherreasonwhyhemadesuchaninvaluableassistant.I foundMollyinthesameholding cellwithAlani,butshestoodoutlikeasorethumb.Dare facedhisfriend.Nowaywasshetheretobesoldoff, becauseshewasabusedtoomuch,way morethantheothers. Chriswentstill.Sowhywasshethere? FuckedifIknow.Ithinksomeonehadhertaken.ButIhave noideawhy.Darefrowned.Yet. Whileidlysettingoutthefreshgrocerieshedbought,Chris consideredthat.Itakeitsheisntexactlythenormforthat sortofthing? Hell,no. Chrisdidntdrinkmuchcoffee,whichmighthavebeenwhy ittooksolongforhimtogettheprocessofmakingitright. Hetookouttheorangejuiceand pouredhimselfatallglass.Italmosthadtobesomebody closetoherisntthatwhatyoualwayssay? Dareshrugged.Imkeepinganopenmind,andIplanto coverallthebases. Afewquestionscometomind. Ifiguredasmuch.Daresetthehalfemptycupasideand wenttoinvestigateChrissfoodpurchases.Skinlesschicken andfreshvegetableswouldbe

quickandeasytocook.Letshaveit. Shehiredyou? Dareshruggedagain.Mollysoffertopayhimforservices rendereddidntsitwellwithhim.Imightdothisonepro bono.ButIhaventtoldherthatyet,so keepittoyourself. ThatsetChrisback,soitwasafewsecondsbeforeheasked, Howlongisshestayinghere? Dontknowyet.Andhedidntwanttothinkaboutittoo much.Hepreferredtoplayitbyear,andtakeitonedayata time.Hegotoutwhathedneedto sautthechickenandsteamthevegetables.Dependson howthingsgo. Whatdoesthatmean? Helookedupfromhischore.Imgoingtotakeherbackto herplace,bewithherwhensheseesfamilyandthenjudge mynextstep. Soifthingsgowellandyoucanwrapitupquick,maybeyou wontbebringingherbackwithyou? Ididntsay Mollyclearedherthroatandbothmenlookedup.Shed combedherwethairstraightbackanddressedinoneofthe bigshirtswithabrabeneathand thejeans.Herbarefeetpokedoutfromunderthedenim. Darestraightened. Chrissteppedaroundhimandheldoutachairatthelong granitebar.Coffeeorjuice? GlancingawayfromDarespenetratingstare,shesaid,Juice wouldbegreat.Thankyou.Shevisuallyexploredtheisland gourmetkitchenwithstone

countertopsandlotsofstainlesssteel.Itopenedintoa familyroomandthemorningroom,wheretheyate breakfast.Everyroomismoreamazingthan thenext. Daresaidnothing.Thesecondshedentered,heagainfelt hertension. Thedogscametoinvestigate,sniffedherfeetanddropped downbesideher.Hell,Darethought,eventheyfelt protective,sowhywouldheexpecthimself tobeanydifferent? Maybebecauseheknewitwasntjustprotectivenessthathe felt. Illhavefoodreadyintwentyminutes. Soundsgreat.WhatcanIdotohelp? Youcantellmewhyyourreaderscouldbesuspects.And thenwellgofromthere. CHAPTERSEVEN READERS?CHRISDIDadoubletake.Whatthehelldidhe meanbyreaders?Mollywrote?Likewhat? Shesanauthor,Daretoldhimashebeganpreparingthe food.Oneofherbooksisbeingmadeintoamoviewith RyanReynoldsasthelead. Chrissjawloosened.WhydidDarejustkeepdropping bombshellsonhim?Hedalreadyfoundherinteresting,in partbecauseDarehadbroughther here,whichwasanaberrationofthemajorkind. Butthiswassomethingaltogetherdifferent. Youreshittinme. Nicelanguage,asshole.

Chriswavedthatoff.ItwasntlikeDarewasanybetter.Hell, neitherofthemwasusedtohavingafemalearoundthe placenotcountingTaiandSargie, whodidntcarewhatlanguagetheyheardaslongastheygot treatsandplentyofattention. Asagenuinemoviebuff,Chrisfeltsuitablyimpressed.But then,hedalreadybeenimpressedwithherbeforethat. Somehow,Mollydidntfithisvisionof thecreativesort.Shewasntglamorousenough.Andshe seemedfartoogrounded,insteadofartistic. Buthell,shedjustbeenrescuedfromkidnapperswhohad batteredherprettybadly.Maybeunderbetter circumstancesshehadmoresavoirfaire. Asheconsideredit,herealizedthatMollydidntfitany stereotypefamiliartohim.Mostpeopleinhersituation wouldbeeitherdemandingofattentionor withdrawnandfearful.NotMolly.Perhapsshewasdifferent withDare,inprivate. Butinhispresence,shewasntintrusive,needyorwhiney.In fact,shetriedhardnottoinconveniencetheminanyway. Chrisshookhishead.HeknewDareexpectedhimtoresent femaleintrusion,andbeforeMolly,hewouldhave.He protectedhisposition,andhealways hadDaresback. WithMolly,therewasnothreatnotofthetypehedalways guardedagainst. Ifanything,hefellinlinewithDare,sharingtheneedtokeep hersafeandhelpherfeelsecure. Ryanisapossiblelead,Mollycorrected.Werewaitingfor confirmation.Shelookedoddlychagrined,thendowncast.

Well,actually,itmighthave alreadybeenconfirmedordenied,butIhaventhadaccess toaphoneorcomputeroranything. Soon,Daretoldher. God,thissucks.Ihavenoideawhatsgoingonwithmy career.ButIwassofocusedon Surviving?Chrissupplied. Well,yeah.Iwassurviving,andsocaughtupininjust holdingittogetherthatIShetrailedoffwithagroan. Youreatrouper,Christoldherinagrandunderstatement. Ihopemyeditororagenthasntbeentryingtogetholdof me.Whatwouldtheythink?Wewererightinthemiddleof negotiationsonthisthingbeforeI I Chrissetthejuicebeforeherandpulledupachair.Hetook herhand,sosmallandfemale,andwishedhecouldhave helpedDaredestroytheoneswho haddonethistoher.Gettingsnatchedbythugsisso damnedinconvenient,isntit? Shechokedonalaughandnoddedwithexaggeration.More sothanIevercouldhaveimagined. Dareshothimalookofwarning,whichalmostmadeChris rollhiseyes.HehadtobetheleastthreateningguyMs.Molly waslikelytocomeintocontact with. Evenifhewasntgay,hedhavenosexualinterestinher. Darehadalreadystakedaclaim.Endofstory. Butwashesupposedtoignorethefactthatshewasa famouswriter?No,ofcoursenot.Howlongdidtheyhave you,Molly?

Darehelpedmetofigureoutthatitwasninedays. GoodGod.Ninedaysofunendingfear,pain,despairNine daysofhell. Overwhelmedwithemotionshedseldomfelt,Chrisgently squeezedherhand.Well,then,Itakebackmyearlier thoughts.Youactuallylookincredible,all thingsconsidered. Shesnortedatthatand,pullingherhandaway,smoothed herhairbehindherearsinafemaleshowofinsecurity. Yeah,iflookinglikedeathwarmedover appealstoyou. Hehelpedhertuckawayawaywardstrand.Actually,you onlylookwounded,whichsometimesappealstothebig protectivemale. Hehelpedhertuckawayawaywardstrand.Actually,you onlylookwounded,whichsometimesappealstothebig protectivemale. Chris HelaughedatDare.WhatIreallymeantwasthatIthought thereweretwotypesofwriters,theglamorousoneswho donnedfeatherboasanddripped diamonds,andtheharriedoneswholivedinafantasyland. Imfarfromglamorous,andImonlyharriedwhenImin themiddleofabook.Andwhenthathappens,IcanforgetI havehair,muchlesshowtogroomit. BeforeChriscouldaskformoredetails,Daresaid,Wellbe goingtoyourplacesoon.Youcangetupdatedoneverything importantthen. Soonasinlike,when? Depends.Probablyinacoupleofdays.Heputthethinly

slicedchickenintoahotskilletwithspices.Yousaidyou livenorthofCincinnati,right? Mollytoyedwithherglassoforangejuice.Itsasmall community,butnice.Myapartmentbuildingisprettyold andquaint,butitscomfortableforme. Goodsecurity?Dareasked. Notreally.Imean,comparedtothisfortress,itsjustaplain oldbuilding.Wehavefloodlightsintheparkinglot,andthe hallsarewelllit.Butwedonthave anyhiredguardsoranything. Isthefrontdoorkeptlocked? Wellno. ChrissharedalookwithDare.Mostpeoplewerenever forcedtofacedangerindailyliving.ButasDarespersonal assistant,heknewonlytoowellthe perilthatcouldinvadeapersonslife,especiallyawoman. ItmadehimilltothinkofMollyaloneandsusceptibleto danger. Itsnotthatbad,shetoldbothmen,recognizingtheir expressionsofconcern.Thelocksoneachapartmentare sturdy,andweallhavedeadbolts,too. OnlyasmallpartofDaresattentionwasonthefood.You saidthebuildingisold.Dothewindowslock? Iguessmostofthemdo. WhenDareturnedtowardherinexasperation,sherushedto explain. Imontheupperfloor,soIneverworriedaboutitasmuch asthepeopleonthegroundfloormight. Itstwostories?Doyouhaveafireescape? Yesandyes.

ChrisalwaysenjoyedseeingDareinanalyticalmode.You couldalmosthearthegearsturningashefiguredthingsout inhismind. Youneedwindowswithsecurelocks. Trustme,whenIfinallygetmylifebacktogether,Imgoing tobethemostlockhappywomanyouveevermet. Wrappingherarmsaroundherself,she shuddered.IdontknowifImevergoingtofeeltotallysafe again. Dismissingthat,probablybecausehewasintentonensuring hersafety,Dareasked,Busyarea?Muchtrafficoutfront? Notreally,no.Infact,itsreallyquiet.Thatsthatshow thosemenwereabletograbmewithoutanyonenoticing.Its aneighborhoodofolderpeople. Shebreathedalittlefaster,alittlemoreshallowly.Andits notthatImoblivioustomysurroundings,honest.IIsaw theold,rustywhitevanwhenIwent outtothemailbox.ButitjustneveroccurredtomeImean, whywouldIthinkthatanyonewantedtograbme?Itwasnt themiddleofthenight,andIdont liveintheslums. DareandChriswaitedasshesortedthedetailsoutinher mind. Ididwonderwhyitwasjustsittingthere.Then,whenI droppedmymailintothebox,andIwasreadytoheadback in,suddenlyShefadedoff,staring atnothinginparticular,sortofvacantandlost. Molly. Facepale,sheliftedhergazetoDare. Theyregonenow,remember?

Slowly,bysmalldegrees,shegatheredherselfandnodded. Youkilledthem. Yeah. Chrislistenedtotheexchangeinamazement.Darehad admittedthattoher?Hedtoldherthathekilledthem? Unfuckingbelievable. Lettingoutashudderingbreath,sherelaxedagain.WhereI live,oldercarsarentuncommon,butusuallytheyresedans orcompacts,notvans.She shookherhead.Otherthanearlyevening,whentheold folkssitontheirporches,therearentalotofpeopleoutside topaymuchattentiontowhats goingon. MollywasaboutthemostfragilewomanChrishadevermet, butshealsoputuponehellofagoodfront.Andshehada verylikabledispositionthat excludedanyselfpityatall. Shewasshaken,butshewasntdamaged.Hopinghis curiositywouldntupsether,Chrisasked,Howdtheyget youallthewaytoMexico? Idontreallyknow.Theysomeoneheldmedown,and anotherguygavemeashotofsomething.Ifoughttostay alert,buttherewasntanythingIcould do.Ipassedout.Icametoafewtimes,butbeforeIcouldget mybearings,theydstickmewithanotherneedle,keeping medrugged.WhenIfinallycame around,weweredrivingagain,butinadifferentcar. Everythingwasdifferent.Itwassohot,andIfeltsick.Then theydraggedmeintothatawfullittle shack.Sheswallowedhard.Itdidnttakemelongtofigure

outthatIwasinMexico.ButIneverfoundoutwhy. DeliberatelyremovingMollyfromthosememories,Dare wentbacktocookingandtoldChris,Getheraddressand findtheeasiestwaytotravelthere. ChrisheardtheedgeinDarestoneandknewhewas affectedbyMollysunrelentingmanner,too.Right. IdprefertodriveifIcangoupandbackinoneday, overnightatthemost.Ifthatsnotpossible,thencharter anotherflight. Anxioustohelpherinanywaythathecould,Chriswent straighttothecomputerarea.Nothingcommercial,right? NotuntilIknowwhatsgoingon. Anotherprivateflight?Isthatmuchprecautionreally necessary? Yes.Dareleftnoroomforargument.Itis. Mollyfretted.Butwehavetofinishdiscussingourshe glancedatChristerms.Andthen,inalowervoice,and withafrown,Dare,ImnotsureI wanttopayfortwocharteredflights. Chrischokedonalaugh,sawherfaceandsuckeditup.Why dontyougivemetheaddresswhileyouandDarehashthat out? Begrudgingly,shesharedheraddressbutthenturnedon Dare.Weneedtotalkaboutthis. Youalreadyhiredme,andyoualreadyagreedtodothings myway.Heturnedthechickenasifhedidnthaveasingle concern.Itstoolatetochange yourmindnow. Shetuckedinherchin.Dare,Idonothaveunlimitedfunds. ThewayanauthorispaidWell,itssometimesfeastor

famine.ImnotsayingImpoor, becauseImnot.Imverycomfortablefinancially.ButIneed tocheckmyaccountsandseewhenmynextbigcheckis due. Dontworryaboutitrightnow.AndthentoChris,Whats takingyousolong? NeverbeforehadChrisseenDaredisconcertedbyawoman. Usuallyhiswordwaslaw,period.Intriguingstuffnotthat heddaresayso. Christurnedhisattentiontothecomputerandtypedinthe addressMollyhadgivenhim.Hmm.Itsnotfaratall.He skippedpastDareandglancedback atMolly.Areyouupforafourhourdrive? Lookingmulish,voicelow,shesaid,WhateverDarewantsis finebyme. Suchaloadedstatement,fullofpossiblesexualinnuendo. KnowingDarewasalreadypoisedtoverballyshuthim down,Chrisquicklyheldupahand.Hewasntabouttosay anythingthatmightmakeMolly uncomfortable. Hegotbacktobusinessandfinishedcheckingamap.Its lookinggood.Afairlystraightshot.Morningsoonenoughfor metofinalizethings? Whatstofinalize?Mollyasked.Youhavetherouteright there. Darelikesdetails.Lotsandlotsofdetails.Hellwantmeto includewheretostoptoeat,andifeatingisntnecessary, thenpossiblelocationsfora bathroombreak.Anyconstructioninthearea.Any landmarksthathellpassthatmightbeconduciveto

sabotage Dareinterruptedtosay,Morningissoonenough. YoutakingyourSUVorarental? Mineisfine. Gotit.Chriscouldnthelpbutgiveintoagrin.Itwasnt thatDareshowedmuchemotion;onthesurface,hewasthe samecoolcucumber.ButChris knewhimbetterthanthat. Probablybetterthananyone. Sure,DareandTracewereclose.Alani,too.ButasDares personalassistant,Chriswasinvolvedineveryaspectof Dareslife.Thatgavehiminsights thattheotherswouldntbeprivyto. Andrightnow,heknewthebiggestsourceofhisbosss temperamentwasabadcaseoflust.Giventhelittleladyhad justgottenthroughanextended spellofabuse,withaveryuncertainfutureahead,Darewas toonobletoactonthatlust.Eventhough,Chrisobserved, Mollyseemedtohaveherown wealthoffeelingsforDare.Itwasthereinthewayshe watchedhim,herbodylanguagewhenhewasnear. Butthatcouldbegratitudeasmuchasanything,whichDare hadtorealize,too.Darehadsavedher,hadslainher dragons,andhewasnowprotecting her. Therewasmorethanenoughroomformisconstrued emotionsonbothends. PoorDare,tofindhimselfinsuchacomplexromantic situation.Itwasgoingtobeinterestingtoseehowthings rolledout.

Christurnedaroundonthedeskstool.Didyouwantmeto cleanupafteryouredoneinhere? Icandoit,Mollyvolunteered. Morningissoonenoughforthat,too.Darecheckedthe veggieswithaforkanddecidedtheyweresteamedenough. SinceChrisdidntcaremuchforcleaningimmaculate conditionswereDaresfortehefinishedoffhisjuiceand puttheglassinthedishwasher.Ileft messagesonyourdeskinthelibrary,butdidyoumaybe wantthemonyourbedroomdeskinstead? Thatdbefine. SomeofthemwerefromTrace.Ithinkheshopingto somehowhelpwithyourHestartedtosaycomplication, butwhenheglancedatMolly,he decidedtocensortheusualmockeryandinsteadnodded towardherwithhishead.Withher. IlltouchbasewithTracetomorrow,butheshouldreally justconcentrateonAlanirightnow. True,Chrissaid.Illputanupdatedcalendarinyourroom, too,althoughthenextfewweeksareprettyclear Dare? TheybothlookedatMolly. Chrisnotedherunease. Daremustve,too,givenhowhegaveherhisfullattention. Whatisit? Hesitationhadherfidgeting,butinthenextbreathshe straightenedhershoulders.Yousaidyoudontwantme signingintoanyofmyonlineaccounts. No,Idont.Heservedupthemealontwoplates.Wedont yetknowwhowantedyoutaken,andIdontknowhow

smartorconnectedthatpersonmight be,butsomeonewithalittlecomputerexperiencecouldtrail youherethroughyouronlineactivity. IdontthinkIknowanyonewiththosetypesofskills. Youdidntthinkyouknewanyonewhowouldhaveyou shanghaiedtoMexico,either,right? Expressiontight,shesaid,WhichiswhyImhappytodefer toyourexpertise. Chrisstaredatherwithnewrespect.Alotofpeoplequailed underDaresintensemanner,butthewayMollysaidthat waspatronizingashell. Noquailingforher. Thethingis,Mollycontinued,Ineedsomethingmore respectabletowear,especiallyifweregoingtobefour hoursontheroad.Anditsnota complaint,butitsdownrightcoldhereinKentucky,andin Ohio,too.Illneedsomewarmerthings. Darelookedoverhercasualclothesandagreed.Isuppose youdo. Ithinkshelookscomfortable,Chrissaid.Sortof sloppycute. Thatsbecauseyouhavethefashionsenseofagoat. GladthathedledDareintothatone,Chrissaid,Soyou dontthinkshescute? Excuseme?Mollylookedateachofthemwithclear censure.Doyouthinkwecoulduseyouraccounttodo someonlineshopping?Iknowmycredit cardnumbersandcanchargeittomyselfbuthaveit deliveredhereovernight.Idontneedmuch,becauseonce wegettomyapartment,Icangrabmy

ownthings. Shouldntbeaproblem,ChrissaidbeforeDarecould.Ill takecareofitforyou. Oh,no.Opposedtothatidea,sheshookherhead.You werereadytogotobed.Really,Icandoit. ButChriswasalreadybackonthecomputer.Doyouhavea favoriteplacetoshopandanideaofwhatyouwant?Wecan getitdonerightnow. Daredidnthidehisexasperation.Iwantedtotalktoher aboutherdisgruntledreaders. Imultitask,asyouknow.Onceshetellsmewhatshewants, Icantakecareofmostofit.Hewentbacktothecomputer. Wheredoyoushop? Deflatedandprobablyoverwhelmed,Mollygaveinandtold him. Daresetherplateandatallglassofwaterinfrontofher. Eatup.Andbesuretostayhydrated.Eversobriefly,he touchedhercheek.Iknowyoufeel better,butyouarentfullyrecoveredyet. Shesmiled,theninhaledthefragranceofrealfood.Itsmells fantastic. Toldyouhewasagoodcook,Chrissaid,amusedbythat tellingexchange.Okay,gotit.Wheretofirst?Slacks,tops, dressesorjeans?Idputanoutfit togetherforyou,butasDarealreadytoldyou,Imafashion disaster.So,whatareyouthinking? Mollygavehimdirectioninbetweeneating. Darekeptnudgingthewateratheruntilshedrankhalfthe glass. Pullingupcertainbrandsshedsuggested,Chrisfoundthat

shewasveryeasytoplease.Withlittlefanfareshechose darkdesignerjeans,blackankle boots,asimplewhiteblouseandathickcharcoalpullover sweaterwithaselftiebelt. Heresanicecorduroyblazerthatdgowithit.Whatdoyou think? Thatllwork,butgetitasizelargersoitllfitoverthe sweater.Maybeascarf,too? Notaproblem.Whenhewasreadytocheckherout,she cameoverand,leaningaroundhim,typedinhercreditcard numbers. Tostayonthesafeside,Illhaveitdeliveredtoour postofficeboxintown.Butdontworry.Icangopickitup assoonasitarrives. Youmakeanamazingassistant. Daregavearudesoundoverthat.Hesapainintheass,but Itoleratehim. Grinning,Christurnedonthestooltowardhim.Idliketo saythatyoudbelostwithoutme,butthatwouldbealie. However,IknowforafactthatImake yourlifemorecomfortable. Liftinghisglass,Daresalutedhim.Yeah,Illgiveyouthat one. Chrisacceptedhisduewithanod.ToMolly,hesaid,Dare hasmanyareasofexpertise,onlyoneofthembeing organizationandacertainfinesseat details.ButIexcelatcomfortmyownandothers. Mollysmiled.Comfortishighonmylistofpriorities,too. ItsonereasonImawriter.Icanwritefrommyownhome, inmyjammies,drinkinghotcocoa

andlisteningtothemusicofmychoice. Adreamjob.IfonlyIhadthetalenttowrite Butyoudont,soyourestuckwithme.Darefocusedon Molly.Tellmewhyyouthinkareadercouldberesponsible foryourabduction. Shewavedoffhisquestion.Ididntreallymeanthat.Iwas justbeingsnarky. Theybothwaitedforanexplanationofthat. Shepushedawayhermostlyemptyplate.Well,thethingis, mylastbookgarneredalotofcontroversy.Therewasa vocalgroupofreaderswhoreally ShelookedfromDaretoChris,andshrugged.Theywere reallypissedoffwithacertaintwistintheplot. Howdoyouknow?Chrisasked. Trustme,readersmakesureyouknowwhenyouvelet themdown. Chrisnoticedthatshedidntlookoverlyhurtbythat. Theyreachauthorsthroughonlinereviews,emails,written letters.Andthatsagoodthing,justnotsofunwhentheres somuchofthenegativestuff. Daresatbackinhisseat.Howdthebookdowithallthat readerdisgruntlement? Great,actually.Inanefforttoexplaintothem,sheleaned forward,elbowsonthestonebar.Witheverybook,there aregoodreviewsandbadreviews, rantsandraves,readerswholoveitandreaderswhohateit, andawholebunchofreactionsthatareinbetweenthose extremes.Youknowtheoldsaying whereyoucantpleaseallthepeopleallthetime.Thesame goesforreviewersandreaders.

Daredidntlookconvinced.Soitwasntabigdeal? Well,itwasabigdealtome,atleastinsomeways.Given thelevelofangeroverit,ImsureIlostsomelongstanding readers.Nomatterwhat,Ihateto disappointanyone,butIespeciallyhatetoletdownloyal readerswhovebeenreadingmefromthebeginning. Bummer,Chrissaid. ButSheliftedhershoulders.Ialsogainednewreaders andexpandedmyaudience.Truthis,ifIhadittodoover again,Iddoitexactlythesameway, becauseIhavetowriteastorythewayitwantstobe written,notthewayreaderswantmeto.Thatshowmy museworks.IfIfoughtthatnaturalprocess, Idprobablynevergetabookdone,andIprobablywouldnt beassuccessful. Stillnotentirelysureheunderstood,Christoldher,Good foryou. Thelevelofangeryoumentioned,Daresaid,bringingthe conversationbackaroundtopossiblesuspects.Givemean example. Alittleembarrassednow,sheglancedaway.Therewere threats,withpeoplewantingtobeatmeup,peoplewishing terriblethingswouldhappentome. Butmostofitwaspostedonlineforalltheworldtosee,soI cantimaginethatanyonewasserious.Theywerejustletting offsteam.Inaway,itsreallya compliment. Chrisstaredather.Howthehelldoyoufigurethat? Ifthereaderwasntsoinvestedinmycharacters,it wouldntmatterenoughtogetangryoverit.Right?

Ifyousayso.Darelefthisseatandheadedforthe computer.WherecanIfindthisstuffontheNet? Aghast,shesaid,Youregoingtolookatitrightnow? Whynot? WellAgainshelookedatbothmen.Okay,callmevain, butIdontreallywantyoutoseeallthebadstuffsaidabout meormybooks. Chriscouldnthelpbutgrin.Thinkwellgetthewrong impression? Ofcourseyouwill.SheleftherseattorushafterDare. Seriously.Theresnopoint TheybothstoppednexttoChris.Daretouchedherchin, liftingherfaceupandsilencingheratthesametime.You promisedtotrustmeandtodoasI said. Sure.Butyoudontknowanythingaboutthisindustry. No,butIunderstandyou,andyoureworriedthatIllfeel sorryforyou. Shedrewback,surprised. Chriswasnt.Inmostinstances,Darewasdamnedastute. Butinthiscase,thingswereprettyobvious.Mollydidnt wantsympathyaftertheordealshed suffered,soofcourseshewouldntwantitoverafew internetslights. Look,Chrissaid,ifyousaiditsroutinetogetslammedon occasion,Ibuyit.Whatsectionoftheentertainment industrydoesntgethammeredona regularbasis?Andbesides,youhaveabookbeingmadeinto afrigginmovie.Howawesomeisthat?Youreastar,and regardlessofwhatafew

reviewsmightsay Overthreehundredreviews. Dareliftedbothbrows.Seriously? Chrisblewitoff.Whatever.Yourestillaresounding success.Ratherthandragoutthesuspenseforher,he turnedbacktothecomputer.Aninternet searchofhernamebroughtupplentyofhits.Bingo.Found somesites. Mollywentrigid.Fine,youtwowanttoseeallthegory details,goahead.Butyoucandoitwithoutme.Imgoingto bed. ShewasalmostthroughthekitchendoorwaywhenDare said,Molly? Shouldersstillstiff,shepaused.What? Ifyouneedanythingduringthenight,myroomisacrossthe hall,nexttothegreatroom.Hestaredatherback. Anythingatall. Thanks.Andwiththatsqueakyreply,Ms.MollyAlexander fledtheroom. CHAPTEREIGHT MOLLYLAYINTHEBEDwellpast2:00a.m.,tryingtogoto sleepandfailing.Atonepointshegotupandopenedthe Frenchdoorstolookoutatthe beckoninglake.Shelovedwater,beingnearit,onitorjust listeningtoit. Withthenightsoquiet,shecouldhearthewaterlapping gentlyattheshoreline.Cricketssang,leavesrustledandthe worldseemedatpeace. Yetastrangeturbulenceboiledinsideher.Fear,anxiety,

insecurityandasortofconspicuousyearningalllefthertoo unsettledtosleep. Asshewentbacktothebedandburrowedunderthesoft, warmquilts,shepromisedherselfthattomorrowshewould investigatethearea.Thistimeof yeartheairwascrispandeverythingnewlygreen.Maybe Darehadaboatandtheycouldgooutforaride.She wantedneededtofindsome perspective,tograspsomenormalcy,evenifshortlived. Oncetheyreturnedtoherhome,whatwouldhappen?If Darefoundnothingamiss,wouldhebedone?Wouldhe consideritsafeforhertoremainthere whilehelookedfortheculpritsalone? Shudderswentoverher,asmuchfromthechillbreeze blowinginasdeepbonedfear. Finally,withherthoughtschurningandanexpanding uneasinesscreepingin,shepushedthequiltsasideandleft thebed.Shetriedturningonthelights, butthatjustmadeherfeelfoolish.Pacing,shetriedtofigure outwhattodo,howtogetsettledbutbeingaloneinthe roomkeptherskincrawling. Thatawfulhysteriabuiltuntilsheboltedfromtheroomand, barefoot,rusheddownthecurvingstairs.Sheheldtightlyto therailingsothatshewouldntfall, andwasgratefulforthebrightmoonlightpouringthrough thewindows,aswellasforthetiny,glowinggreensecurity lightsonmonitorsandalarms. ShewantedtogotoDaresroom,butwhatwouldshesay? Imscared?No,never. Instead,sheveeredintothekitchenanddecidedonaglassof

juicetohelphercalmdown.Andmaybeshecouldfinda cookieortwo.Asmallsnack thatsallsheneeded. RememberingwhereChrishadgottentheglassesbefore,she wenttothecabinet.Thetilefloorfrozeherfeetand,maybe becauseofthat,shetrembled. Badly.Deepbreathingdidntreallyhelp. Shefoundathickmuganddecideditwoulddo;noreasonto keeprummagingaround,breachingDaresprivacy.Afterher snackshedsneakbacktothe roomandstaythere. Shehadjustopenedtherefrigeratorwhensheheard movementfrombehindher. Pure,illogicalterrorimploded.Assheturnedwithasilent screamstuckinherthroat,themugdroppedfromherhand andbrokeintolargechunks.Every soundseemedamplified,echoingagainandagaininsideher thoughts. Visionclosinginonher,shestaredstraightaheadandsaw Tai,theolderofDarestwodogs,sittingonherhaunches, staringbackatMolly.Besideher, Sargiewaitedforanysignofwelcome. Oh,dearGod. Thehazefadedandmortificationleachedin. Goingweak,Mollysankdownontoherknees.Withtears stinginghereyes,shestaredatthedogs.Yougirlsscared mehalftodeath. Herwhispermusthavesoundedlikeaninvitation,because bothdogssurgedforward. No,Mollyhissed,holdingupherhandsandtryingtosee

pastthetearsthatkeptwelling.Thoughthebrokenglass fromthemughadntsplinteredtoo much,shedidntwanttotakeanychances.Stay.Please. SheddieifeitherofDarespetsgotcutbecauseofher ridiculousreaction. Theoverheadlightscameon,blindingMolly. SheshieldedhereyesandfoundDarestandingthereinthe doorway.Hairrumpledandeyesheavywithsleep,hetook hermeasure,lookingatherthere onthefloorandthenatthebrokenmugnearher.Hisgaze camebacktolockonhers. Heworeonlyboxers,andhehadhisbigbarefeetbraced apart. Mollysheartlaunchedintoawild,franticrhythm.Im sorry,shewhispered. Hereleasedherfromthesnareofhisbrightblueeyesand insteadcalledthedogsovertohim.Hepettedthemboth. Yougirlswanttogoout? Whenbothdogsenthusiasticallyagreed,DaresaidtoMolly, Dontmove.Illberightback. Therewasnoemotioninhistone,nocensureorsurprise oranything.Shedidntknowwhattomakeofthat. Hestrodepastheracrossthekitchenandintothefamily roomtoabackdoor.Frozen,humiliationchokingher,Molly stayedrightthereonthefloor.She wasntsureshecouldmove. Whenhereturned,sheheardherselfsay,Gobacktobed, please,whenthatwastheverylastthingshewantedhimto do.Illcleanthisupand Shush,Molly.

Thatwasthegentlesttoneshedeverheardfromhim,andit madeevenmoretearswellupandspillover.Mollypressed herfiststoherdampeyes,trying tostoptheflowofemotion,butallthatdidwaschokeherup more. Shewasnotaweakwoman.Shewasnotawomanwhosatin themiddleofakitchenfloorallbutbeggingforwhat? Comfort?Company?Shehatedit, andatthatmoment,shehatedherself. Stillwithhereyescovered,shesensedDaresmovement nearher,heardtheclinkofglass,thentheclosingofa cabinet. Secondslatersheknewhewasnear,thoughonlytheheatof hisbodytouchedhers. Didyouhurtyourself? Hisimpassivetonelefthergrateful;anyrealsympathyfrom himandshedbebawlinglikeababy. Unabletolookathim,sheshookherhead.IIdidntmean todropit.Thedogsstartledme.Butthatwasnttrue.I forgotyouhaddogs.Ijustwanteda snack. Youwantednottobealone.Hetookherwristsandpulled herhandsdown,placedthemonhisshoulders,andthen, beforeshecouldevenassimilate whatheplanned,hescoopedherupintohisarms. Shedidntmeanto,butshewrappedherarmstightaround himandburiedherteardampfaceagainsthisneck.He strodeoff,maybetakingherbackto herroom,andshecouldntfindasinglewordtosay. Butitwasntherroomtheyentered.Itwashis.

Asheloweredhertositonthesideofhismattress,shehad nochoicebuttostophiding.Darepulledupaquiltfromthe bottomofthebedandwrappedit aroundher.Youllbewarmerinaminute.Herubbedher armsthroughthequilttohelphurrythingsalong. Shehadntrealizedshewassocold,notuntilhementioned it,andthenshefelteverychill,everyshiverthatrackedher spine. Furiousatherselfforthepatheticdisplay,sheswipedatthe tearsonhercheeks.Ifeelsostupid. Againhecaughtherwrists,stillinghermovements.Dont. Theresnoreason.Hewentthroughadoorwayinhisroom andcamebackwithahandfulof tissuesthathepressedintoherhand.Stayhere.Imgoingto letthegirlsbackin,andthenIllberightback. Whenshesaidnothing,hetippedupherchin,givingherno choicebuttomeethisdirectgaze.Histhumbbrushedher cheek,smoothingawayatear.I wanttofindyousittingrightherewhenIreturn. Understood? Thesoftnessofhistonekeptitfromsoundinglikeanorder. Appreciatinghiscalmmanner,Mollynodded. Hewasntgonelong,butMollyusedthosefewminutestotry togatherherself.Sheblewhernose,wipedawaythetears andtookseveraldeepbreaths. Hopingforadistraction,shestudiedDaresroom,starting withtheincredible,multileveltrayceiling.Theroomwasnt squarebutinsteadhadonewallof windowsthatextendedoutinasemicircle.Thecurtains wereopen,andthroughthefloortoceilingwindows,Molly

sawamillionstarsshining. Heavy,masculinefurnitureincludedthebedsetbutalsoan upholsteredcouchandchairinasittingarea.Aninterior doorledtohismasterbath.Curiosity gotheroffthebed,andshepeekedintothatsumptuous room.It,too,hadawallofwindowsthatjuttedout.They surroundedalarge,sunkenJacuzzitub. Theentirebathroomwastiledforaspalikefeel. Givenherfatherswealth,shewasntunfamiliarwithluxury. ButinDareshome,hemixeditwithakindoffunctionality thatwasbothcozyandcomfortable. Shecouldspenddaysjustadmiringthevariousroomsinhis home,Mollythoughtassheclearedawaythelastofthe tears,tossedhersoddentissuesina wastecanandthenheadedbacktoherseatonthekingsize bed. Emotionallyspent,shetouchedtheindentinDarespillow, proofofwherehedbeenbeforeshedsorudelyawakened him. Sheheardthedogsnailsonthefloorastheychargedacross thekitchentiles,skitteredtoaturnandenteredtherooma fewstepsaheadofDare. Darestoppedinthedoorwaytoscrutinizeher,butthedogs headedstraightforthebed. Whentheyjumpedupontothemattress,Daremadeno movetostopthem,leadingMollytobelievethatthedogs sleptwherevertheypleased. ShelikedthataboutDare.Hewasanorderlyman,very particularaboutcleanliness,butalittledogfurdidntput himoff.Therewassomethingvery

appealingaboutthatdowntoearthquality,especiallyina manwithhisability. Taicircledonce,thendroppeddownatthefootofthebed andclosedhereyeswithalustysigh.Sargietriedtogether wholebodyintoMollyslapand endeduphalfsittingonMollysthighs.Givingawatery, chokedlaugh,Mollyhuggedthedogtightandburiedherface inherruff. Silencefilledtheroom.ThebeddippedwhenDaresatbeside her,buthesaidnothing.Hedidntpressher,didntholdher. Hesimplysattherebeside her,hisshouldertouchinghers,hisnearnesscalmingher and,atthesametime,fillingherwithnew,different sensations. Mollyknewshecouldntcontinuethisway.Whenshe stoppedsqueezingSargie,thedogthumpedhertailtwice andsnuffledMollysneckwithhernose. Butwhenshedidntgetareaction,shecrawledoffherlap, overDare,andfloppeddownnexttoTai. AwarenessofDarebesideher,mostlyundressed,expanded bytheheartbeat.Mollyglancedathim.Hismuscled,hairy thighwasrightnexttohers, pinningdownthequilthedwrappedaroundher.Shelicked herlips,inhaleddeeplyandbreathedinhishotmasculine scent. Itwasalreadyfamiliar,comforting,enticing. Hergazeskimmeduptohisthroat,hisshoulders.Hehadthe mostremarkablechest,wide,strong,sculptedwithobvious strength.Evenrelaxed,hisabs remaineddefined.Andaverysexytrailofdarkbrownhair

ledfromhisnaveldownintohissnugboxers. Beneaththesoftcottonmaterialshesawthebulgeofhissex. Wantmetolosetheboxersforyou? Shejerkedhergazeuptohis.Hisslowsmileshowedmore satisfactionthanhumor. ForMolly,onethoughtovershadowedtherest.Thisshould beawkward,butitsnot. No. Imean,thecryingandbeingstupidandweakisawkward, butbeingherewithyouisjustnice. Thesmilefaded,andhiseyeswarmed.Youfeelbetter now? Yes.Andshedid.Thatthrummingpanicwasnolongera partofher,leavingherataloss.Idontknowwhat happened.IswearIfeltfineearliertoday. Iknow.Heputahandonherthigh,overthequilt.But trustme,thatsenseofwellbeingisephemeralatbest.After yourordeal,youcantexpectittolast. Notthissoon.Youneedtocutyourselfsomeslack.Wellget thereeventually,Ipromise. We?Didhemeanthat? No,howcouldhe?Darebarelyknewher,andwhathedid knowwasshadedbyextremecircumstance,nottheroutine, dayinanddayoutpartsofherlife; notthemundanepartsthatmadeuptherealher. Allinall,hermostlysolitarylifeofresearchandwriting equatedtoaveryboringexistence.Herliferevolvedaround herdesk,inherapartment,inaquiet towninOhio. Nothingexcitingaboutthat.

Eventhefewbooksigningsandspeakingappearancesshe didwerelowkey,attendedbydiehardfansonly. Withthisoneexception,shewasnotawomanwhogained realenemies,orgotkidnappedorabused,andshewas definitelynotawomanwhocrumpled understress. WhatwouldDarethinkoftherealMollyAlexander?When shewasntsoneedy,wouldhestillbedrawntoher?Orwas ithisheroicnaturethatmadeher seemappealingtohimnow? Soon,whenshereturnedtohernormalroutine,hewould continueonwithrescuingthoseinneed,facingoffwith danger,andmakingamintinthebargain. Hewasahighstakesplayerandshewasthegirlnextdoor. Daresqueezedherthigh.Molly? Oh,sorry.Sheshookherself.Thiswasnotimetogo meanderingoffmentally.IwasjustImbetternow.Thank you. Imgladtohearit.Butthenexttimeyoufeelthatedginess comingon,dontwaituntilitsfullblown,okay?Justcometo me.Letmehelp. Whatevertomorrowmightbring,ornextweekornext month,sheneededtogetthroughtonightfirst.Fine.I acceptthatIneedtime.Shewouldregain herself.Somehow,shewould. Thatsastart.Hishandstilledonherthigh.Whatabout tonight? Itsalmostover.Shetriedtosoundacceptinginsteadof wretched.Butforwhatremains,mayIsleepwithyou? Yeah.Heturnedalittletowardher.Idlikethat.

Reliefrobbedherspineofstrength.Untilheagreed,she hadntrealizedhowtenseshefelt.Thankyou. Youdontmindsharingwithtwohounds?Becausethegirls looksettledinfortherestofthenight.Hereachedoverto patthedogs.Theyusuallyfavor thekitchen,buttheysenseyoureupset,Ithink,andthey wanttostayclose. Somehow,Darealwaystookthemostbizarresituationsand madethemfeelnormal.Didnothingdisconcerthim? Idontmind.Givenhowbeingalonehadthrownher,the morethemerrier. Good.Hestoodandreachedoutahandtoher.Mollylet himpullhertoherfeet,andthenshewaitedasheturnedto thecovers.Youwontneedthis,he said,andhetookthequiltfromherandtossedittothefoot ofthebed,halfoverTai,whodidntstir. MollyworeoneofthebigTshirtsandherpanties,nothing else,butDarepaidnoattentiontothat. Inyougo. Tryingtobediscreet,shecrawledintothebedandthen scootedoverasDaregotinnexttoher.Heturnedoutthe bedsidelamp,reachedanarmaround herandpulledherinclose.Herheadfitnicelyintothespace betweenhishardshoulderandhischest.Alreadyhis warmthpenetratedher.Shefeltthe pricklyhaironhislegsandthesofterchesthairagainsther cheek. Shefeltatpeace. Thesoftkisstohertempleofferedsomuchcomfort. Okay?

Mollynodded.Iguessifthiswassomehowsexual,itdbe different.ButIknowitsnot,andthatmakesit Letstryforalittlemoresleepbeforethesuncomesupand thebirdsstartsinging.ButMolly? Herheartpoundedsohard,itwasawonderhedidnt mentionit.Yes? Ifyouneedto,wakeme. Shedtryherbestnottodothat,butallshesaidwasOkay. Thankyou. Inthatdark,quietroom,shecouldhearthedogsbreathing, thewindoutsidethedoorsleadingtoadeckandthesettling ofanunfamiliarhouse. Odd,butitfeltmorelikehomethananyplaceshedever been. HAIRSTILLDAMPFROMhisshower,carryinghisshoesin onehandandhisbeltintheother,Darecamedownthesteps andacrossthehall.Hepaused byhisbedroomdoor,heardnothingfrominsideandknew Mollystillslept. Sneakingoutonherhadbeeneasy.Evenwhenhedgathered uptheclotheshedneedandhadusheredoutthedogs,she hadntstirred.Thesightofher there,crowdedontohissideofthebed,herdarkhairspilling outoverthepillows,hadmovedhiminunfamiliarways. Hethoughtagainofwhatshedsaid,howholdingherinhis bedhadntbeensexual. Forher. Forhim,itequatedtoatruetestofhiscontrol.Allnighthed

feltherwarmbreathonhisskin,feltthesoftnessofher thigh,herhair,herscent.Awarenessof herbodyagainsthis,separatedonlybyacottonTshirt,had torturedhim. Hewantedher.Bad.Ithadbeenallkindsofsexualforhim. Determinedtodotherightthing,Dareturnedawayfromthe bedroomdoorandwentintothekitchen. Lookinglikedeath,wearingonlyloungepantsanda wrinkledoversizewhiteTshirt,Chrisslumpedatthetable, eatingcereal.Bothdogssatattheready nearhisfeet,hopingforabite. Darehelpedhimselftocoffee.Imsurprisedtoseeyouup already. Chrisrolledashoulder.Iwasntsureifyouwereserious aboutrunningthedogsornot. Alreadydone. Chriseyedhim.Thenyoucouldhavefedthem,too. Ididtheyjustlikeyourcereal.Itoldyounottostartthat oryoudregretit. Lipcurlinginasneer,ChrismimickedDareswords,then gaveeachdogapieceofcereal.Youknow,Idetestthat superefficient,doitall,knowitall attitudeofyours. Daresalutedhimwithhiscup.Rightnow,hewishedhe knewalittlemoreaboutMolly. Asifreadinghismind,Chrisasked,DidMollygetanysleep atalllastnight? Enough.Hehelpedhimselftothecoffee.Butshesinmy bed,sostayoutofmyroom. Eyeswidening,Chrisfrozewiththespoonhalfwaytohis

mouth. Trytokeepitquietdownhere,andlethersleepaslongas sheneedsto.Daremethisgaze.Andshutup. Droppingthespoonbackintothebowl,Chrishelduphis handsandtriedtolookinnocent.Iwasntgoingtosaya singleword. Yeah,youwere.Darethreadedthethickleatherbeltinto hisjeans.Itlookedtobeanicedayahead,sohedonlyneed hislightjacket. Okay,Iwas,Chrisadmittedashescratchedhisbristlychin. Imean,yousleptwithher. Exactly.Weslept. AhHelookedconfused.Soitsnot? No,itsnot,andthatsalltheexplanationyouregetting,so letitgo.Darejoinedhimatthetable.Imtakingofffor mostoftheday.Withouther. Huh. Ididmyownresearchlastnight.Herdadisonagolfouting onlyafewhoursfromhere. Chrissbrowsshotupandhesaidagain,Huh. HedidntquestionDaresintel,knowinghispersonal resourceswerevastandaccurate. DonttellherwhatImdoing. Easyenough.Foldinghisarmsoverhischest,Chrissaid, BecauseIdontknowwhatthehellyouredoing. Sincehewasntsurehimself,Dareignoredthat.JustsayIm outonbusinesswhichwillbetrueenough.Illgetbackas soonasIcan. Rockingthechairbackontwolegs,Chrisconsidered everythingandcametohisownconclusions.Youdonttrust

dearolddad,andyoudontwantMolly walkingintoaboobytrap. Emotionalorotherwise.Daresethiscoffeeasideandbent topullonhisshoes.IwentaheadandcalledTracelast night,too. Ishejoiningyou? No.Dareshookhishead.Idontneedhimto,andlikeI said,heneedstobethereforAlani.Buthedidsome additionalcheckingforme. And? NoonehasreportedMollymissing.Notherdad,nother stepmomandnotthesisterthatshetrustssomuch. Butshewasgoneninedays!ThelegsofChrisschairhit thefloor.Andshedoesntseemthetypewhodisappears withoutaword. No,shedoesnt,doesshe? IndignantonMollysbehalf,Chrisscowled.Thatsfucked up. Maybe.Darestraightenedagain.Idontknowwhatit means.Yet.ButIwanttogetasenseofthingsbeforeItake herbackthere. Youdidntwantmetomapoutthetrip? Alreadydidit.BeforeMollyhadcometohimlastnight, hedhadhisownissuestryingtosleep.Hedfilledthe restlesshourswithplansonherbehalf. Aftershedjoinedhim,histhoughtshadbeendivertedfrom wantingtoprotecther,tojustwantingher. Willyouconfrontherdad? Notsureyet.Darewasntthetypetobackhimselfintoa cornerbystatinghisintentionsprematurely.Implayingit

byearfornow. Dare.Chrisleanedforwardandfoldedhisarmsonthe table.Whateveriswaitingforherbackhome,she eventuallyhastogoback.Youknowthat. Yeah.AndIllbewithher.Nowayinhellwouldhelether outofhissightuntilhecouldassesstherisk.Idontlike surprises,soImgoingtoscopethings outfirst.Doalittlesurveillance.Thatsortofthing. Chrislookedtowardthekitchendoorway.Ihopeshesleeps thedayaway.Isuckasababysitter. Justkeephersafe.Dontletheroffthegrounds,butmaybe shedliketocheckoutthelake,explorethewoodsalittle. Darestoodandfishedhiskeys fromhispocket.Makesureshedrinksplentyoffluids,too. Whatevershelikes.Orderitifwedonthaveit.AndIwant hertoeat.Shehastobuildupher Exasperated,Chrispushedoutofhischairtointerrupt Dareslaundrylistofinstructions.Iwaskiddingabout babysitting,Dare.Icanhandleit.Justgo. Thesooneryouleave,thesooneryoullbeback,andthe soonerIcangiveupguardduty. Dareslappedhimontheshoulder.Onceagainhe appreciatedhavingChrisaround.Toomanytimesoverthe years,trustedfriendshadbeenfewandfar between.Illkeepyouposted. Darewenttothedogsandtoldthemboththathedbeback soon.Theyweresmart,andtheyunderstoodthedifference betweenanextendedtripthat involvedhisduffelbag,andonethatdlastonlyafewhours.

Theyfollowedhimtothedoorbutshowednosignsof anxiety. YougirlskeepMollycompany,okay?ToSargiehesaid, Andnoshenanigans.Idontwantyoutowearherout.As Darewentoutthedoor,herealized hewasalreadymissingher,anditpissedhimoff. Hopefully,oncehesecuredhersafety,hecouldtakeherto hisbedwithnointentionofsleeping.Oncehehadher,then hedbeabletogetheroutofhis system.Hedhaveto. Therewasnoroomforaromanticrelationshipinhislineof workandhewasalongwayfromretiring. CHAPTERNINE DARESATINHISSUV,waiting.Impatient,butunwavering. Heddonemanystakeouts,butthisonewasdifferent.This timehewasntwatchingforthe victimorplanningtotrailasuspect.Thistime,hewanted informationonly. Andhedgetwhathewanted.Alreadyheddiscovered things,andhedidntlikeanyofit.Nowheneededmore.He neededaclearerpictureofthe circumstances. Mollysfathercouldsupplythat. Tracehadbeeninvaluableindoingaquickrundownon BishopAlexander.Amorethoroughanalysiswouldfollow; infact,Tracewasworkingonthatright now.HewouldscourBishopspast,digintohispresentand eventakeapartfutureplanstogetasmuchintelligenceas possible.Veryshortly,Darewould

knowmoreaboutBishopAlexanderthanheknewofhimself. Daregrinned,gladthathedhaveanopportunitytoreturn Tracesmoneytohim.Acceptingfinancialcompensation fromhisfriendhadntfeltright, especiallywhenthejobinvolvedAlani.Yearsofhardwork, wiseinvestmentsandgoodsensehadalreadyamassedhima smallfortune.Hedidntneed Tracesmoney.Hedidntreallyneedanyonesmoney.More oftenthannot,hecontinuedtoacceptassignmentstokeep hisedgeandtofeedhisneedfor excitement. Moneyhadlittletodowithitthesedays.ThankstoTraces incomparableinvestigativeskills,Darenowhadtheexcuse topayhimbackinfull. DareconsideredtheinformationTracehadalreadysupplied. Byallaccounts,Mollysfatherfeltomnipotenttoallthe lesserpeoplearoundhim,including hisdaughtersandhiswife.Otherthansomeshadybusiness dealings,hedidnteventrytoconcealhistransgressions. Becausehehadntdoneavery goodjobofbuildingabondwithalongstandingassistant,it hadbeeneasytogleaninfo. Somepeoplehadnoideahowtocovertheirtracks. Onekernelofdataledtoanother,publicrecordsgaveclues toprivateinformationandnowDarehadenoughto accomplishhistasktoday. Beneaththeshadeofanornamentaltreethatblockedsome ofthebrightsunshine,DarehadwatchedBishopdriveupin ashinyblackMercedes.The oldermanhademergedinGQgolfduds,acellphonetohis

earandashinyplatinumringglintingonhisfinger. Bishophadpaidlittleenoughattentiontothevaletasthe youngmantookhiskeystoparkthecar.Dareheardhim laugh,sawhimliftahandtohailother menandthenjoinasmallgroupofdistinguishedlooking friendsorcolleagues. BishopAlexanderdidnotactlikeamanwithamissing daughter. Thathadbeenhoursago.Soonerorlater,hehadtocome backout.Darecheckedhiswatchandconsideredwhathis nextmovewouldbe.Shouldhe confrontBishophere,infrontoftheothers? Howdarethemanplaygolfanyway?Wasntheworried aboutMolly?Orwasitjustthathehadbusiness responsibilities?Darewellknewthevalueof cultivatingconnections;couldthisbeBishopspurpose today?Maybehewasputtingonagoodfronttohidethe personaltroublesinhisownfamily. Theemotionalinvolvementofthisassignmentwasdifferent forDare.Usuallyhehuntedforthetruthwithdetached resolve.Hedidagoodjobbecause thatswhathewaspaidtodo. Now,forMolly,hewantedtoferretoutthetruthbecause keepinghersafematteredtohimpersonally. LastnightGodalmighty,hedwantedher.Hestillwanted her.Beingawayfromherhadntchangedthat. Butlastnightshedneededsomethingaltogetherdifferent fromhim.Shehadntevennoticedhisboner,ortheheat pouringoffhim.Shedheldontohim likealifeline,andhedlikedit.Helikedher.

Itdidntmatterhowhardthecircumstancesmightbeon him;untilMollygotthroughthis,untilsheregainedsome controloverherlife,hewouldcontinueto dowhathecouldforher.Ifthatmeantholdingherevery damnnight,thensobeit. Hewoulddamnwellkeephishandstohimself. Untilshewasready. DarewasthinkingofhereventualreadinesswhenBishop finallyemergedfromtheclub.Thoughhedbeenoutinthe sunforhours,hiswellgroomed, silvertippedhairlookedlikeithadjustbeenstyled.Aviator sunglasseshidhiseyes,butnothissmileashechattedup another,tallerman.Theylaughed together,andBishopclappedtheotherfellowonthe shoulderasafarewell.Thefriendveeredoffinadifferent direction,leavingBishopalone,waitingon thevalet. Fuckit. Beforethevaletnoticedhim,Daregotoutofhiscarand lookedovertheroof.BishopAlexander? Mollysfatherlookedup. PredatoryanticipationfilledDare.Gotaminute? Takingoffhisglasses,BishopstaredtowardDare.DoI knowyou? Daredidntmovefromhisrelaxedpositionoutsidethe driverssideofhisSUV.Wehaventformallymet,butyour daughterhastoldmeaboutyou. Bishopwentstill,butonlyforasecond.Acalculated expressionreshapedhisfeatures,andheslunkcloserwith caution.Whichdaughterwouldthatbe?

Ofcoursethebastardfeltsafe.Theywereinfrontofan exclusiveclubwhereonlymemberswereallowed.Bishop wouldntrealizethatDarewentwhere hewanted,whenhewanted.Gettingpastthegatehadbeen childsplayforamanofhismeans. ForBishop,hismoneyandsocialinfluencewerehis strength.ButDaredidntgiveashitaboutanyofthat. Thedaughterwhosbeenmissing. Inaninstant,Bishopsjawfirmed,andhesurgedforward withtheconfidenceofamanusedtopowerandprestige. Whatdoyouknowofthat? SoherealizedMollyhadbeenmissing.Interesting.Ifound Molly,andIthoughtyoumightbeinterestedinthedetails. Thatdidit.Afterwavingofftheapproachingvalet,Bishop movedtoconfrontDare.Voiceloweredandinfusedwith suspicion,hesaid,Idontknowwhat thisisabout,butifyouthinktoblackmailme,Icantellyou thatitwontwork.Youwontgetasinglecentfromme. IttookallofDaresresolvenottoplanthisfistinBishops face.Feigningaboredomhedidntfeel,Daresaid,Doesthat meanyourenotcuriousabout whereshewas,orhowshegotthere? Onuncertainground,Bishopflexedhisfingerswhiletrying togaugehisopponent.Finally,aftersmoothinghisalready smoothhair,hetweakedthecollar ofhisgolfshirtandplayedblas.Iassumedshewasoffon anotherresearchtrip. Yeah?Armsrelaxed,stancenegligent,Daresmiled.And youthoughtIdblackmailyouoverthat? Whatelse?Alldecorumfledashesaid,Thankstoher

absurdvocation,Mollygetsherselfintopreposterous situations. Likewhat?Beingkidnapped? Kidnapped?Foronlyamoment,Bishoprockedbackin shockbeforerealizinghowloudlyhedspoken.Appalledat himself,heagainlookedaroundto ensurenoonehadoverheardhim. Thatsright.Takenagainstherwill.Enunciatingslowly, Daresaid,Abducted. ButHeblusteredindisbelief.Thatsabsurd. Dareshookhishead.Itsafact. Notmissingabeat,Bishopasked,Butshessafenow? Didthemancare?Orwasheponderinghisownpositionin things?Shessafe. Afterlettingoutabreath,tryingtoshushDarewithhisown example,Bishopsaid,Look,thishasnothingtodowithme. Youreherfather. Anirrefutablefact.Bishopsoundedpainedbythe relationship.Butyoudhavetounderstandmydaughter. Sheisnotconventional.Sheisnot circumspect.ItsafaultIhavelamentedforyears. DaresaidnothingwhichpromptedBishoptosayalot. Justwhatthehelldoyouwantfromme?Youcertainlycant expectmetotakechargeofMollyseverymisfortune. Beingkidnappedwasamisfortune?Yourearealasshole, arentyou,Bishop?Daredidntbotherbeingcircumspect, whichpromptedBishoptoanother quicksurveyoftheirsurroundings.Doyouhaveanyidea whereyourdaughterwas? SinceIdidntknowofanyofthis,howcouldI?

Doyouevencare? Bishopflattenedhismouthandrefusedtoreply. Deepdown,ragesimmeredinDare,buthedidntshowit. Youknow,Ihavetoaskmyselfwhywouldafatherbeso indifferenttohisdaughterswell beingunlesshewastheonewhohadarrangedher misfortune. Jawgoingslackandfacecoloring,Bishopblinkedinaneffort toreconcilehimselfwiththeaccusation.Youreserious, arentyou?Andthenwithnew heat:Whatthehellareyoutalkingabout?Doyouknow whoIam?Doyouknowmystandinginsociety? Hmm.Hehadlookedgenuinelysurprisedbyitall. Daredecidedtopresshim.ComingoutfromaroundtheSUV door,heclosedthedistancetoMollysfather.Ataroundfive feet,nineinches,Bishopstood damnnearahalffootshorterthanDare.Hewaslean,toned, buthelackedanyrealstrength. Physically,hewashalfthemanDarewas.Incharacter,he wasaworm. So,Bishop,Daresaid,itwouldsurpriseyoutolearnthat yourdaughterwassnatchedoutfrontofherapartment building? Thatsridiculous.WhowouldwantMolly? Godalmighty,Darewantedtohithim.Onegoodpoptothe nose,thatsall.Bishopwouldntbesosmugor condescendingwithhisownbloodsplattered overhisface.AndIguessyoudidntknowthatshewas takentoTijuana,heldcaptive,starved,tormentedand threatened?

Idontbelieveyou,Bishopblustered.Theearlierhotcolor leachedfromhisface.Hesaidagain,Idontbelieveyou. Shewastaken,allright. Evenwhileshakinghisheadindenial,Bishopmuttered, Butwhy? ThatswhatIwanttoknow. Perplexed,Bishoplookeddowninthought,thenglaredat Dare.Thisishardtoaccept.Andwhatdoyouhavetodo withit,anyway? Notadamnthing,exceptthatImtheonewhofoundher. Withevenmoresuspicion,Bishopasked,InTijuana? Yes.Keepingitvague,Daregaveabarebonesassessment. Iwasthereforunrelatedreasons,andIsawher.Her conditionwasnotgood. Whatdoyoumean?Andinaccusation:Yousaidshewas okay. Shesalive,andsheshealing.Physically.Emotionally Darejustdidntknow.Butshewaspoorlytreated. Thesecondstickedby;Bishopswallowed.Raped? Shesaysnot.Therapidfirequestionsfeltmoredevious thanfrantic. Whohadher? Peoplewhodealinwhiteslavery. Bishopblanchedinhorror.DearGod.Whiteslavery?But surelyWhereisshenow?Helookedaroundaghastasif expectinghertosuddenlyappear. Shesnotwithyou,isshe? Itoldyou,shessafe.Ihaveherwellawayfromhere.Away fromyou. Isee.Thoughhetriedtohideit,Bishopsevidentrelief

couldntbemissed. Itwasntreliefforhisdaughterssafetythebastard. Well.Bishoptuggedathistailoredshirt.Impleasedto hearthatshesallright. Ididntsaythat. DisregardingDaresstatement,Bishopforgedon.She obviouslycantcomebackhome. Home?Dareinquired. ToOhio. Hiseyesnarrowed.Towhereyoulive,youmean? Asifjustified,Bishopsaid,Therewouldbeaghastly scandal.Themediawouldhaveafielddayiftheygotwindof this,andknowingMolly,shewont evenattempttokeepitquiet. Youwouldexpectherto? Hischinshotup.Forthesakeofherfamily,andtoprotect ourgoodname,ofcoursethatswhatIexpect. Shedidntasktobetaken,youknow. Maybenotinsomanywords.Bishopcurledhislipin disdainanddistaste.Butstill Wishinghecoulddemolishthesmallerman,Dareasked, Whatdoyoumeanbythat? Shesmydaughter.OfcourseIcareaboutherwellbeing. Butoddsareshebroughtthisonherself. Areyoufuckingkiddingme?Darehadseensomehideous peopleinhistime,butMollysfatherbeatthemall. Withthatfilthshewritesandthewayshe AsDarestiffenedinfury,Bishoptrailedoff. Throughhisteeth,Daregrittedout,Itisnotherfault. Thisisabsurd.Bishopdismissedthetopicwithashakeof

hishead.Imnotgoingtocontinuethisconversationwith you.Idontevenknowyourname. Straighteningtohisfullheight,Dareglareddownathim. ButIknowyours,Bishop.AndifIfindoutyouhadanything todowithMollysabduction,Illdamn welltakeyouapart,piecebypiece. Hismouthfellopenindisbelief.Yourethreateningme? Bishopobviouslycouldntbelievesuchanotion. Imexplainingthefactstoyou. Umbragestiffenedtheoldermansspine.Idonthaveto listentothis. Asheturnedaway,Daresaid,FactnumberoneisthatMolly iscominghome. ThatstalledBishopinhistracks. Sheneedstoknowwhodidthistoher.AndsodoI.Thebest waytofindthatoutistoconfrontpeople. Thatsoutrageous!GoodGod,man,youdontbragaboutit whenyouvebeendefiled.Youshowsomecommondecency andyoucoveritup. Factnumbertwo,Daresaid,speakingoverBishops protestations,isthatMollyisntgoingtohide anythingbutyouare. Hebristledattheorder.Idontknowwhatyouretalking about.WhatisityouthinkIneedtohide? Thatwevemet,thatyouknowMollyissafewithmeand thatImhuntingfortheoneresponsible.Youarentgoingto sayawordaboutthistoanyone.No oneistoknowaboutMolly,notuntilsheorItellthem. BishopnarrowedhiseyesandpointedafingeratDares chest.Youdonotdictatetome.

Yeah,Ido.Daresteppedcloseruntilthatrigidfinger touchedhim.Bishopjerkedhishandawayandretreated,but Daredidntallowthat. HecaughtMollysfatherbythefrontofhisshirt.Because, Bishop,factnumberthreeisthatyoudontwanttobeonmy badside.Icandestroyyou.Iwill destroyyouifyoucrossmeonthis. Squirmingtogetfree,Bishopfeignedcouragethathedidnt possess.Youdontknowwhoyouretalkingto.Iamnota manyoucanbully. ThatsaclaimIcanputtoyou,Bishop.Dareknewtheslow showofhisteethlookedlikepureevil.Ihavecontactsin businessesthatyoucanteven imagine.Ihavefriendsinhighplaces,andbetterfriendsin lowplaces.Nomatterwhatyoudoorwhereyoucrawlaway to,Ihavewaysofgettingtoyou. Crossme,andIwillobliterateyou,Bishop,socially, financiallyandpersonally. Teethgritted,BishoptriedtoknockDareshandaway,but couldnt.Justwhothehellareyou? Imthepersonwhoknowsallaboutyou.Hedraggedhim closer,upontohistiptoesuntiltheirnosesalmosttouched. Iknowaboutyoursummerhouse, andyourapartmentinthecity.Ihaveaccesstoyourvarious accounts,adetailedrecordofyourworthandalistofall yourbusinessacquaintances. Breathless,fearful,Bishopwhispered,Yourebluffing. Idontwastetimebluffing.DiggingupinfoonBishop AlexanderhadbeeninsanelyeasyforTrace.Iknowyoure cheatingonyourwifeandonyour

girlfriend.Youreconsideringanoffertosellpartofyour company,withouttellinganyoftheshareholders.Youhavea dentalappointmentintwodays,and youjustbettwograndontheoutcomeofyourgolfgame. Bishopwentpale,gaspinglikeafishoutofwater.How? Evenbetter,youdontknowjackshitaboutme,doyou? WhereIlive,howIgetmyinfo,whenIllbebackorifyoull seemewhenIdoreturn.Afterthat ominousthreat,Darereleasedhimwithasmallshove.I dontlikeyou,Bishop.Youreashittyfather,acheating husbandandanunscrupulous businessman. II Dareshookhishead.Saveyourbreath.Idontcareabout yourexcusesorjustifications.JustknowthisIwant answers,andtheybetterbetruthful. ButWithafleetinglookaround,BishopappealedtoDare. Wecantstayhere.Peoplearestartingtotakenoticeofus. Likehegaveashit?BeingaroundBishopsouredhisstomach andquadrupledhissympathyforMolly. Believeme,Idontwanttoextendthisvisitanylongerthan Ihaveto.Infact,hewasdamnedanxioustostartthedrive backtoseeMolly.Hedwasteda goodportionofthedaywaitingforBishoptofinishhisgame, andhestillhadalittlemoresurveillancetodo.Hell,bythe timehefinished,itdbelate, muchlaterthanhedfirstintended. Heglancedathiswatch.WasMollylonely?Worried? Withouthimthere,wouldshehaveanotherepisodeofnear panic?Hedhavetocheckinwith

Chris.No. Neverbeforehadhebeenapersontofret,andhedamnwell wasntgoingtostartnow.Mollywasastrongwoman,and shewasingoodhandswithChris. Ifanythinghadhappened,Chriswouldhavecalled. TheglareheputonBishophadthemanswallowinghard. Thiswilltakelessthanfiveminutes,Daretoldhim,as longasyourestraightwithme.Ifnot well,then,wecanbehereallfuckingday. Fine.Tryingtoregainhisaplomb,Bishoprestedahipon thehoodofDaresSUVandattemptedacavalierpose.Lets getthisoverwith,then. ThatBishopkepttryingtotakechargeshouldhavesent Darestempertothebreakingpoint;insteaditreinforced justhowobnoxiousandpretentiousthe manwas. HowthehelldidMollystandhim?Hadshegainedher incrediblewillpowerthroughnecessity,fromdealingwith suchacold,uncaringfather?Darethought ofhermotherssuicide,andhowMollyslifemustvebeen afterthatloss. Mollyschoiceshadbeentobestrong,ortakethesamepath asoneofherparents.Shedchosenstrength. Anddamn,headmiredherasmuchashewantedher. Youhadquestions?Bishopprompted. Shakingoffhisdistraction,Daresaid,Mollysboyfriend. Whatdoyouknowofhim? Who?Lookinggenuinelyperplexed,Bishopasked,Doyou meanAdrian? UnwillingtogiveBishopanyguidance,Daredidntreply.

HissilenceimpelledBishoptocontinue.Theyrenot togetheranymore,whichisashame,buttomyknowledge thatsthelastmanshedated.Bishop pretendedtogiveitsomethought. Darewasntfooled.Yourepushingyourluck. Idontknowthatmuchabouthim.Heseemedpleasant enough.Successful.Bishopshrugged.Heownsproperty, hisownbusiness. Heownsabar,butheshockeduptohiseyebrowsand youdknowthat,too,Bishop.Nowayinhellwouldyouhave letyourdaughterdateanyone withoutdoingabackgroundcheck.Youretooprotectiveof yourownintereststorisklettinganyoneseedyinthedoor. Provoked,Bishopsnapped,Ifyoualreadyknew,thenwhy areyoubotheringme? Judgingyourhonestyandsofaryourefailing. Takingthatasathreat,Bishoprushedtosay,Fine.Hewasa graspylittlewormwhonodoubtdatedMollyformymoney. ButIwasntworried. BecauseevenMollywontseeadime? Inhisowndefense,Bishopsaid,Shedoeswellenoughfor herself. Butshehadntalways.Whenshewasalittlegirlwithhopes anddreams,allshedhadwasBishop,anditbrokeDares fuckingheart.Youretalking aboutthewritingcareerthatyouscorn? Ididnotraisehertoindulgeinvulgarmeansof entertainment. FromwhatDarecouldtell,Bishophadntreallyraisedherat all.Likewhoring,cheatingandgambling,youmean?Those

wereBishopssins,andthey hadnotbeenpassedontothedaughter. UmbragedarkenedBishopscomplexion.Arewethrough here? Dareshookhishead.TellmeaboutNatalie. Whatdoyouwanttoknow? ThatBishopdidntevenmakeapretenseoftryingtoprotect hisyoungestdaughterdidntsurpriseDare.Themanwould guardhisowninterestsfirstand foremost.Whereisshe? Atthismoment?Ihavenoidea.Sheteaches,sosheslikely homebynow.Probablygradingpapersorsomerelated tedioustask.HecaughtDares impatienceandrushedontosay,Ifyoureaskingmewhere shelives,thenyoullfindherinanapartmentcomplexnot farfromMolly.Thetwoofthem havealwaysbeenthickasthieves.ForaslongasIcan remember,ifoneofthemlied,theotheronesworetoit. Iftheyhadlied,Darewouldbetitwastoprotectone another.Andyourwife? Bishopshrugged.Atthisparticularmoment,Mrs.Alexander wouldbepresentingagranttotheHistoricalSocietyin Cincinnati.Hewavedahand.Shes veryintoherlittleclubsandcharitableaffairs. Sofar,Bishopwasthesoleunscrupulousfamilymember. NotthatDarewasdonedigging.Whendidyourealizethat Mollywasmissing? Whenyoutrappedmehere.Beforethat,Ihadnoidea.My daughterandIdontkeeptrackofeachotherssocial calendars.

Bullshit.Youknew. Iknewshewasoutoftouch.Iknewshewaslikelyannoyed atmeandthereforenotreturningherstepmotherscalls.But shetravelswithoutalertingme, andshesalwaysbeenindependent. Becauseshedhadnochoice.DidntNatalienotice? Bishoplookedathisnails.Nataliedidcallme,concerned, butIhadnothingtotellher,andneitherdidKathi.Ihavent heardfromhersince,soIassume shecametothesameconclusionthatIdid,thatMollywas offonbusinesswithherbookcontracts. Orthemoviedeal? Blankfaced,Bishopasked,Whatmoviedeal? Huh.Sohereallydidntknowaboutthat.Darehadalready determinedthatthemanwasalousyliar;ifhedknown,he couldnthavehiddenit. Illbeintouch,Bishop.DarewasntabouttoshareMollys news.Ifshewantedhimtoknow,shedtellhimherself. WhenMollycallsyou,youfuckingwell betteranswer.Idontcarewhatyouhavegoingon. Understood? Doesthismeanweredone? Fornow,yes.Daresmiledagain.DontforgetwhatItold you,Bishop.Thisneverhappened.Tellasinglesoul,and youllregretit.Steppingaroundhis SUV,Dareopenedthedriversdoorandstartedtogetinside. Forasecondortwo,Bishopstoodthere,unsurewhattodo. Finallyhehissedlow,Whythehellareyoueveninvolvedin allofthis? AndDarecouldntresist.Heknewitwasamistake,knewhe

wasactingoutofcharacter,thatifhewastrulyincontrol hedstickwiththeplananddrive away. Buthecouldnt. SlowlyheclosedthedoorandcamebacktowardBishop. Sensingthathederred,Bishoptriedtobackpedal,buthe wasntfastenough.Daregrabbedhimbythefrontofhis shirt. TheoldermanscreechedwhenDareslammedhimup againstthehoodofhiscar.Youtrymypatience,Bishop. Thatsaverydangerousthingtodo. Dontletithappenagain. Withthatwarning,DareshovedBishopfromhim,forcing himtostumblebeforehegatheredhiscomposureand staggeredaway,takinghistemperouton thevaletwhohadyettoretrievehiscar. Darehadlearnedmorethanenough,fornow.Hegotinthe SUV,putitingearanddroveoutoftheclubslot.Rage continuedtosimmerinsidehim, makinghimclenchhisjawandlockhisteeth.Hewantedto seeMolly.Hewantedtoholdherandtellherhowsorryhe wasforherlotinlife. Justasheclearedthegates,hiscellphonerang. ThinkingitmightbeChriswithnewsofMolly,hesnapped thephoneopenonthefirstring.Yeah? Inatonefartoogrim,Tracesaid,Ihavesomeinfoyoull wanttosee. Damn.Dareglancedatthetimeontheconsole.Iwasjust headinghome.Andforonce,seeinghisgirlstooksecond place.Hewantedtocheckon

Molly.Andmore.ButthewayTracehadwordedthat,Dare knewhehadsomephotos.Theyreimportant? YoullwanttoseethemASAP,yeah.Icanuploadthemto you,orIcanmeetyousomewherealongI75. Letsmeet.Idliketogetyourtakeonthingsanyway. KnowingTrace,thephotoswouldbetelling.Anythingthatd makeiteasierforDaretoensure Mollyssafetywasapriority.Sayinfortyminutes? Thatllwork. Aftertheyagreedonarestaurantthatcateredtotruckers, Dareasked,HowsAlani? Throwingherselfintoherwork.Iwantedhertotakesome timeoff,tochillwithme,butshesaidthatdbetheworst thingtodo. Daregrinned.ThankstoTracesfinancialbackingand businessinfluence,Alaniownedaninteriordesignbusiness, soshecouldeasilysetherhoursto beasbusyorasidleasshewanted.Youhopedtohover overherandinsteadshesoutandaboutwithstrangers. Voicegoinglower,Tracegrowled,Shesremodelingfor someassholebusinessman. GivenwhatAlanihadjustbeenthrough,Dareunderstoodhis friendsneedtoshelterher.ButwhileAlanimightlook delicatewithherfairhairandslim build,shehadthesamestrengthofcharacterasherbrother. Isupposeyoualreadystartedabackgroundcheckonhim? FirstthingIdidagainstAlanisprotests.Sofarhescome outcleanenough.Hesafinancier.Hisfamilyisoldmoney, andIdontlikehim. Becausehesrich?Darelaughed.Hatetobreakittoyou,

butmostwouldconsiderusrich,too. Weworkedourassesoffforourmoney. True,butnotreallythepoint.Alanihasalwayshadevery advantage,andshesstillgrounded.Beingeightyearsolder thanAlani,Tracehadensuredthat shewantedfornothing,andyetsheremainedsweetand unspoiled. AndifitwasoldmoneyTraceobjectedto,well,hell,Mollys fatherwaswellpedigreed,butshewastheleast overindulgedpersonheknew. Tracesighed.Plainandsimple,Idontlikehim,okay?Idont knowhim,butIstilldontlikehim. Rightnow,yourenotgoingtolikeanyonewhosaround her.OddswereitdtakeTracelongertorecuperatefromthe ordealthanitwouldAlani,because Tracealsohadguiltworkingonhim.Butshesonly remodelingforthisguy,right?Itsnotapersonal relationship. YouknowwhatAlanilookslike.Doyoureallythinkthe guywhossingle,damnhimwillwanttokeepitstrictly business? Tracehadapoint.Thecombooffairhairandgoldenbrown eyeswasremarkableonTrace;onAlani,coupledwithher figureandsweetsexappeal,most guyswouldntbeabletoresisthittingonher.Wantmeto talktohim? God,no.Alaniwouldpulverizeusboth.Illkeepaneyeon thesituation. Daregrinnedagain.Ifyouneedbackup,letmeknow. Afterdisconnectingthecall,Darelethisthoughtsmeander

backtoMolly.Itwasoddthatsheaffectedhimso profoundly.Notonce,ever,hadhegotten emotionallyinvolvedwithawoman.Heenjoyedsocializing andsex,butthatswhereithadalwaysended. Withhiscareerchoice,anythingmorewasabsurd,because heknew,deepdowntothemarrowofhisbones,a relationshipwouldneverwork.Notonly didhespendtoomuchtimeaway,butthejobmadesecrecy necessary.Addtothatthelevelofdangerofteninvolved,and itwouldntmakesensetoleta womangettooclose. BeforeMolly,thatrealityhadsetfinewithhim. Nownowhefoundhimselfwonderingaboutimpossible things.Hefoundhimselfthinkinglongerterm.Hewasntthe kindofmanwhocouldcommittoa lifetime,butamonth?Twomonths?Theideaofhavingher around,gettinghisfillofher,tantalizedhim. Butshedneedtimetorecoverfromhertrauma,andhehad noideahowlongthatmighttake,orhowlongshedtolerate hisintrusionintoherlife. Ifhewasabletonailherfatherforthesinofherabduction, wherewouldthatleavethem?OnceMollyknewtheculprit, shecouldgetonwithherlifewithout fearofanotherthreatandshednolongerneedDare around. Drivingdownthehighwaybyrote,hisreflexesonautopilot, Darelethimselfexamineeverypossiblescenario.Hewas damnedgoodatwhathedid,and hehadahellofalotofresourcesathand.Throughtheyears, heandTracehadbuiltupcontactsinthegovernment,the

militaryandwithinallthehighest profilebusinesses. BishopAlexanderthoughthepossessedpower;intruth,he hadnoideawhatrealpowercoulddo. NomatterhowDarelookedatit,histimewithMollywould beshortlived.Yes,shewasacomplicationtohislife,but nownowheratherlikedthewayshe complicatedthings. Somehowhedhavetofigureoutawaytosolveherdilemma andstillgivehimselfthetimeheneededtoindulgehisevery carnalurge. AndwithMolly,thecarnalurgeswereplenty. CHAPTERTEN CHRISTRIEDTODOallhischores,butateverymomenthe wasawareofMolly.Shedawakeneddisoriented,confused thatDarehadleftandalittlehurt even,butdeterminedtohidethatreactionbehindcalm acceptance. BothheandDarehadtoldMollytomakeherselfathome, andtoanextentshedid.Butsheremainedcautious,trying herbesttobeinconspicuous,when suchathingwasntpossible. Shedidntliketorocktheboatordrawunnecessary attentiontoherself. Chrissnorted.Allthewomanhadtodowasbreathetodraw attention.True,shewasntaclassicbeautywithheraverage brownhairanddarkbrown eyes.Shedidntflirt,andwhatfigureshehadshemanagedto disguise.

Mostofthetime,anyway. Buttherewassomethingabouther,anauraofsensuality thatheknewhadDareonhighalert.Hergentlesmileand sedatemanneremphasizedthat naturalsexappeal.Chrishadalreadynoticedhowshelooked himintheeyeswhenshetalkedtohim,howshelistened intentlywhenhetalked,howshe protestedtoomuchattention,andherefforttobe unassuming. Allveryadmirablequalities. Maybeitwasthelittlethings,too,likehowshebitherlips, thewaysheloweredherlashes,themovementofherhands whileshespoke,andhergratitude andgraciousnessabouteverything.Onewouldneverknow theawfulnessofwhatshedrecentlygonethrough.She wasntclingyorneedyorevenallthat shaken. Atleast,notwithhim. ButshehadsleptwithDare,intheplatonicsense,soshe muststillbefeelingtheeffectsofherordeal. SincehedneverbeforeconsideredDaretobeacoddlerof anykind,itwasaprettyincrediblesetup. Chriscouldnthelpbutwonderhowlongthenonphysical aspectoftheirbondwouldlast. Sofartoday,sheddoneherutmosttostayoutofhisway.In fact,otherthanwatchingheronthemonitorswhenever possiblewhileshewasoutside,hed barelyseenhersinceshedeatenbreakfast. Forhoursshedstrolledaroundthegrounds.Shedstayed withinthefencedperimeter,butthatencompassedalotof

woodsandruggedland.Molly Alexanderwasntaprincessorshewouldnthavehikedand communedwithnatureforsolong. Shedalsowalkedalongtheshore,skippingrocks,examining leaves,testingthechillinthewaterwithhertoes.She appearedtoliketheoutdoorsas muchasDaredid. LateMarchhadbroughtanuncharacteristicwarmspell, withdaytimetempshittinginthelowtomidsixties. Combinedwiththebrightsunshine,itfelt morelikeearlysummerthanspring.Chriscouldunderstand whyshedwantedtogetsomefreshair.Butmostwomen wouldhavebeenboredinnotime. NotMolly. SheplayedwiththedogsbythrowingtheirFrisbeeandthen racingthemdownthehillafewtimes,laughingalltheway. WhenSargieknockedherdown, Chriswaitedforhertocomplain,topushthedogawayand scoldher. Insteadshesatthereinthedirtandleavesandsmiled. Sheappearedtolovethedogs,whichmeantthatDarewasa gonerforsure,whetherheknewityetornot. Atonepointlateintheday,Mollycameintofindabrushfor thedogs,thenwentbackouttositpeacefullyonthedock, groomingfirstSargieandthenTai. Thegirlslovedtobebrushedandgladlyallowedthe attention.Mostimportantly,Darewasntaround,soChris knewthiswasntafemaleploytogetonhis goodsidethroughhispreciousgirls. Nope,MollywasjustbeingMolly,genuineandhonestand

straightforward,andthatwaspowerfulenoughtolevelany guy. Offandon,Chrischeckedonher,butMollystayedthereon thedockforalongtime,justtakingintheserenityofnature. Chrisunderstoodherawe,becauseheddonethesamemany times.Thewaythesettingsuncastlongredribbonsacross thesurfaceofthelakecould mesmerizehimstill.Littlebylittle,thesunsanklower behindthewesternhillsinablazingcrimsondisplaythat slowlyfadedtogolden,thengray,until everythingturneddimandchilly. Becausehedbeenkeepingtabsonher,Chriswasnt surprisedwhenshepokedherheadaroundthedoortothe library. Chris? Hmm?Oneofhislastchoresforthedaywasrefillingthe papertraystothemanyprintersthroughoutthehouse.He lookedupandfoundherwindblown, rosycheekedandlookingquiteadorableagain.Hadenough freshair? Hersmilecharmedhim.Ihadnoideathatbeingonalake wasso Relaxing? Shenodded.Thesoundsandsmellsandtheincredible quietItsortofsapsallthetensionaway. Meaningshedbeentense?Well,ofcourseshehad.Darehad leftheraloneinstrangesurroundingswhenshewasstill batteredanduncertainofher safety.ChrisunderstoodDaresmotives,butdidMolly?And evenifshedid,wouldthatmakeitanyeasier?

Chrisstoredtheremainderofthepaperinadrawerand startedtowardher.Imgladyouenjoyedit. Shehuggedherarmsaroundherself.Afterthesunset,it startedtogetprettychillyoutthere.Idloveanicesoakto warmupagain.Shebitherlip. WoulditbeokayifIusedthetub?Imean,theJacuzzitubin Daresroom?OrwouldhepreferthatIdidnt Ofcourseyoucan.Darewouldloveforhertomakeuseof histub.Ifhecalled,Chrisjustmighttellhimaboutit.That thoughtforcedhimtobitebacka grin.Doyouknowwhereeverythingis?Towels,soap? Darealreadyshowedme.Shehesitated.Isthereanything youwantedmetodotohelpoutaroundhere?Icoulddo thatfirst.Iwouldntmindpitching in Ivegotitcovered.Heshooedheronherway.Go,relax, enjoy.Whenyouredone,youreallyshouldgetsomethingto eat,though.Ifhedidntkeepher fedandwellhydrated,Darewouldhavehishead. Iwill,thanks.Shetookoff,againwiththedogstrailingher. Afewminuteslater,ChrisheardthehumoftheJacuzzitub inDaresroom.IfDarewerehere,hedgonutsthinkingof herinthere,allwetandrelaxed amongswirlingbubbles. Chrisshookhisheadbeforemakingtherounds,checkingthe monitorsfirst,thencheckingDaresmessagesbothonthe phoneandonthecomputer. Oneofhisdutieswastosortouttheemails,answeringwhat hecouldandflaggingthosethatrequiredapersonalreply. Overanhourlater,justwhenhewasstartingtoworrythat

shedfallenasleepinthetub,thejetsturnedoff.Chris paused,listening,forgettingwhathewas doingforthemoment.Aglanceattheclockshoweditwas after8:00p.m. Nowthatshedfinishedwithherbath,shedbeatlooseends again,and,forallhismanytalents,hehadnoideawhattodo withher.Hehopedlikehell thatDarewouldmakeithomesoon. Nottenminuteslatershepokedherheadintothekitchen, wherehebusiedhimselfbytakinginventoryofgroceries andcleaningsuppliesthathedneed topickuptomorrow.Darehadacleaningcrewthatcamein onceamonthtoreallygetthingsspicandspan,butbetween thosehighlysupervisedvisits, everydaytidyingfelltoChris. TaiandSargieremainedMollysshadows,bemusingChris. Usually,whenDarewasntaround,thegirlsstuckcloseto him.Theydnevermetaperson theydidntlove,buttheyseemedespeciallytakenwith Molly. Herdamp,pinneduphairleftlittlewispscurlingaroundher earsandnapeandshowedoffsharpcheekbones,arefined jawandaninnateelegance.It alsoemphasizedthemarksofmistreatmentthatremained onhersoftskin.Hecouldntforget,evenforasecond,how badlyshedbeenabused. Straighteningtofaceher,Chrisasked,Enjoyyourbath? Yes,thankyou.Imighthavetoinvestinoneofthosetubs.It washeavenly.Shemoseyedovertoachairbutdidntsit. Thedogsfollowedher,sosheknelt

downtopetthembothandendedupwithSargieknocking hertoherbutt. MollyjustlaughedandletSargiecrawlacrossherlap. DoyouthinkDarewillmindthatIborrowedhishoodie? Shepulledtogethertheunzippedfrontofthesweatshirt.I wasalittlechilledafterthathotbath, butIdontreallyhavetoomanyclothesyet. Ofcoursehewouldntmind.Chriscursedhimselffornot thinkingofthathimself.Thehousewaskeptonthecoolside toaccommodatetwomen,but naturallyawomanmightfindituncomfortable. Ididntgetinhisclosetoranything.Itwasonahookinhis room. Itsfine,Molly.Theyhadtogetthewomansomemore clothes.Hopefullywhatsheorderedwouldarrivetomorrow, andthenDarecouldtakehertoher placetogatherherown,familiarbelongings.Hungry? Shegaveitsomethoughtbeforenodding.Alittle.Isitokay ifIroustupsomethingmyself?Iwontmakeamess. Imnotworriedaboutthat.Didhereallycomeoffassucha bastard?Hell,hewasthesloppyone.Darewastheonewho wantedeverythingimmaculate. Whatsoundsgoodtoyou? Doyouhavepeanutbutterandjelly? Thatsurprisedhim.Sure.Butdontyouwantsomething more?ForgetDaresinsults.Ireallycancook,Ipromise. SheshookherheadandwiggledoutfromunderSargie. BecauseTaiwasntasaggressive,shetookamomenttogive hersomeattention,too,thenwent aroundthekitchengatheringwhatsheneeded.Imissedthe

simplesnacks,youknow?Bowlofcereal,peanutbutterand jelly,icecream.Ialwayskeep thatkindofstuffaroundmyplacebecauseImnotabig fastfoodpersonatall,andIusuallydontseethepointin cookingforoneperson. Dareisntintofastfood,either.Ihavetotwisthisarmtoget pizzaonoccasion.Chrisglancedattheclock.Heshouldbe homesoon.Godwilling. Youdonthavetobabysitme,youknow?Sheglanced towardhimwithaquirkysmile.Iknowyouhaveyourown place,andwithoutDarehere,you probablywouldhavebeentherealready,right? True.WhileDarewasaway,hecouldcompletehisworkand havetherestofthetimetohimself.Buthedidntwantherto knowthat.Ihadsomechoresto do. Herexpressionsaidshedidntbelievehim.Youvebeen keepinganeyeonmeallday. Hadsheseentheviewersmountedaroundtheproperty? Whatmakesyouthinkso? Idontknow.Ijustfeltit. Ah.SomethingelsesheandDarehadincommonkeen awareness.Actually,Ikeepaneyeoneverything,including theproperty,andyoujusthappened tobeinthescene. Didyouexpecttrouble? Nope.Atleast,notanymorethananyotherday.Dareis nothingifnotcautious. Shesaidnothingtothat,butChrisknewshedjuststored awaythatknowledge.Aftershefinishedpreparingher

snack,sheputawaytheutensilsandfood andsaid,WoulditbeokayifIusedacomputer? UhDaredidntwantheronanyofheraccounts,buthow washesupposedtopolicethat? Indramaticfashion,shecrossedherheart.Iwontbreak anyrules,Ipromise.Myaccountsareofflimits.Itsjustthat whileIwasoutwalkingearlier,Ihad anideaformyWIPandIwantedtogetitdownwhileits freshinmymind. WIP? Workinprogress.Ihaventbeenabletowriteforawhile, andnotwritingmakesmeantsy. Beingheldcaptiveprobablymadeherantsy,too,buthegot herpoint.Hey,haveatit.Ijustrefilledalltheprinters,so feelfreetoprintoffwhateveryou write. Actually,ifyouhaveaflashdriveorsomethingthatIcould payyoufor,thatwouldworkbetter.ThenifIwanttochange thingslater,Ican. Fascinatedbyherwritingprocess,Chrissaid,ImsureI havesomeextrasstoredinthelibrary.Shetrailedhimashe startedoutoftheroom.Youcan usethecomputerintheroomDaregaveyou.Butmaybeshe didntwanttobealonethere,sohequicklyadded,Orthe oneinhisroom,orthelibrary Doesntmatter,really. Illusetheoneupstairs.Shewrinkledhernose.Ilikealot ofprivacywhenIwrite. Wasthatahintforhimnottotrylookingoverhershoulder? Bummer.Itdbecooltowatchawriteratwork.

Chrislocatedaflashdriveinthelibrarydeskandhandedit toher.Thereyougo. Thanks.Shejuggledherglassofmilkandtheplatewiththe sandwichandpushedtheflashdriveintothesweatshirt pocket.ThenshegaveChrisa directlook.AndsinceIllbeoccupied,youreallydontneed tohangaroundthatis,unlessyouwantto.Butdont changeyourplansonmyaccount, okay?Ireally,reallydetestbeingabother. Tellingherthatshewasntabotherwouldnthavemadea differencetohowshefeltaboutit.Soinstead,Chrisasked, Youregoingtostayinthehousefor therestofthenight? Mollyhesitated.DoIneedto? No.God,hehopedshewasntplanninganotherjaunt aroundtheperimeter.Youresafeenoughanywhereonthe groundsrightaroundthehouse,under thesecuritylights,butIdratherknowwhatyouredoing, andwhereyoullbe.Justincase. Hershoulderlifted.Ifitsokay,Imightgodowntothedock againlater.Thechangeofsceneryjogsmymuse,andthe freshairkeepsmealert.Willthatbe aproblem? Sincethedockwasclosertohisplace,andmonitored,Chris wasrelieved.Thatsfine.Justbecareful,okay?Andthento teaseher,Wewouldntwant youtofallin. Ashestartedoutoftheroom,thedogsfollowed,making Chrispausewithalaugh.Iguesstheyrereadytoturninfor thenight,sonowtheyrecoming

withme.HeeyedMolly.Youdontmindbeingalone? Sheshookherhead.Iusuallyam. Andforwhateverreason,thatdamnnearbrokeChriss heart. THROWINGHERSELFintoherwork,Mollyspenttwohours onthecomputerandmanagedtowritetheentirescene beforehermusetookarestand realitysankbackin.Thehousewassoquiet,andwhenshe lookedattheclock,shesawitwasalmost10:00p.m. Shesavedherfileandstoredtheflashdrivewiththefew belongingssheowned.Earlier,shehadcarriedherdishes backdowntothekitchenandstowed theminthedishwasher.Thesilenceofthebighousehadnt reallysunkinthen;shedbeentooanxioustogetbacktoher story. Now,however,sheheardeveryunfamiliarnoise. Armswrappedaroundherself,shewalkedovertothe Frenchdoorstolookout.Herheadstartedtoache,soshe freedherhairfromthehaphazard topknotfastenedwithpaperclampsshedfoundonthedesk. Ofcoursetwomenwithshorthairdidnthaveanyhairclips orbobbypinsjustlyingaround. Sheshookherhairfree,rubbedhertemplesalittle.Andstill thetensioncontinuedsqueezingin. Earlier,thewalkhadhelped.Thenthehotbath.Andthen writing.Butnow SurelyDarewouldcomebacktonightright? Shelookedatthebedandshudderedatthethoughtoftrying

tosleepthere,alone,withonlyherturbulentmemories. RegardlessofhowDarehadtoldhertocometohim,it wasntfairtoimposeonhimthatway. Butshedidntwanttosleepalonewithhernightmares,and shehadnooneelse. Pacingtheroom,shetooknoteofalltheshadowscastfrom theglowofthecomputermonitorandthefullmoonoutside. Shetooknoteofthesilence,the chill,howthewallsclosedin. Shefoughtit,butanxietytightenedaroundher,smothering, insidious,consuming. Shedrewadeepbreath,thenanotherandknewshehadto movenow,beforeshelostcontrol. Swipingthequiltoffthebottomofthebed,shewentdown thestairs,throughthehouseandoutthebackdoor. Immediately,amillionstarsshonedownon her,twinklingbrightaroundafatopalescentmoon. Thistimeshefilledherlungswiththebrisknightairand thefreedomofitcalmedher. Darewouldreturntonight,andifhedidnt,shedstay outside.Outhere,shedidntfeeltrappedorsmallor helpless.Havingthewideopenskiesoverher wasnothinglikethatcramped,airlessroomwheretheyd keptherchaineduplikeanunwantedmutt,breathingthe scentsoffearanddesperationand filth. Wheretheyhadtakenpleasureintormentingher. Hurtingher. Butnottoomuch,notenoughtoreallyinjureher.Theyd beenwaitingforsomething,sheknewit.

Butwhat? Whenshesteppedofftheporchandontothepath,ambient securitylightsflickeredontoshowthewaytothedock.She couldhearthelakewashingupto therockyshoreline.Sheheardtheteasingrustleofleaves, thesongsofcricketsandothernightcreatures. Shedidntknowwhatelsemightbeouttherewithher,but shewasntafraid.Notanymore,notofthis.Notofeveryday, normallife.Tothecontrary,shed neveragaintakeitforgranted. Offtotheleftofthepathwasthequaintwhitecottagewhere Chrislived.Thelarge,frontwindowswereshieldedby drawncurtains,butlightshonethrough, lettingherknowthatChrishadntyetgonetobed.Ofcourse, heprobablywouldntuntilDarereturned,becausehefelt responsibleforher. Daredid,too. Shewantedtoberesponsibleforherselfagain. Leavesblewoverthepath,crunchedunderherfeet.Thechill breezecutthroughher,butsheembracedit.Shewasalive, andafterthinkingshemightdie inthatswelteringhot,squalidlittlehellhole,beingcold remindedherthatshehadntletthemwin. ShedheldonandthenDarehadsavedher. Thedocksqueakedandrockedasshewalkedoutontoit. Thelightdidntreachthisfar,andshefeltsafelyconcealedin shadowsprovidedbythehigh wallsoftheboathousetoherright.Shemovedclosetoit, lettingitblocksomeofthewind. Themoonpaintedaglowovertheripplingsurfaceofthe

lake,sobeautifulthatitengrossedherandfurthereasedher angst.Mollysankdownonthehard woodenplankswithherkneesdrawnupclosetoherchest andwrappedthequilttightaroundher. Howlongshesatthere,shewasntsure.Herthoughtsdrifted overthepresentandthefuture.ShethoughtofDare,ofwhat heddoneforher,butmore importantly,ofwhohewas.Notmanymencouldeverbe likehim.Noothermanwouldaffectherthisway. Withoutevenmeaningto,shedrewcomparisonstoAdrian, andfeltlikeafool.NowthatsheknewDare,Adrianseemed lessthaninsubstantialinevery way.Hedidnthavethestrengthofcharacterorconviction thatwassuchapartofDare.Hedidntpossessevena fractionofDareshonorandcourage. Andinnowaydidhepossessthesamesexappeal.Around Dare,shecouldnotignoreherownsexualityasshedoften donewithAdrian. Shecouldntdiscounttheincrediblecircumstances,because theyhadhappened;theyservedasanimpetusfor everythingthatfollowed.Butwhatshefelt didntdependonwhatshedsuffered,orhowDarehad savedher. IfshedmethimbackinOhio,maybewhileonabooktour, shestillwouldhaverecognizedhimasanamazingman.She hadtobelievethat. Whensheheardthesoundofacarapproachinghighupon theroad,sheturnedtoseetheheadlightsveerintothedrive. SheknewitwasDare,andreliefleftherboneless.She consideredgoinguptogreethimbutshewasntreadyyet.

Sittingthereonthedockbeneaththewideopenskies, snuggledintothequilt,feelingsafeandserenekepther captivated.Itenabledhertothink objectively. Morecomparisonspresentedthemselvesasshethoughtof herabductorsandhowDarehelpedhertoputtheugliness intoperspective. Themenhadhurther,butDareeasedthepain. Theyhadtauntedher;Darereassuredher. Theybelittledher,andDareshowedherrespect. Heservedastheantithesistoalltheharsh,uglymemories. Throughhim,shecouldcountertheremainingabhorrence andlingeringfears. Hesoothedherfear,andhersoulevenwhileinflamingher senses.Shewantedhim,notjusthiscomfort,butsomuch more.Sleepingbesidehimmade herfeelsafe,butitwasntenough,notwhenhisnearness heatedherbloodandsharpenedherdesirealmostpainfully. Tonight,shedmakeherfeelingsknowntohim. Ifhecametoher. NotforaseconddidshedoubtthatDarewouldknowright wheretofindher,ifhewantedto.Buthecouldbetired;he couldwanttoshowerandsleep. No. Theirtimetogetherhadbeenbrief,butshealreadyknew him,andsheknewhewouldseekheroutfirstthing.Andso shewaitedforhim. Likeglitteringdiamonds,starlightreflectedoffeveryripple inthesurfaceofthelake.Thelullingsoundofgentlewaves rollinguptotheshorelinehad

easedhertensionearlier,butnowtheyampedupher awareness,heighteninghersenses.Mollyconcentratedon thefeelofthecoldairblowingoffthe lakeandintoherheatedface. AndshelistenedforDare. Herheartbegantopound,andherskintingled.Somewhere outtowardthemiddleofthelake,afishjumped.Toherleft, inasmallcovebetweenthisdock andtheonesituatedinfrontofChrisscabin,afrogcroaked. WhenshefeltDaresapproach,Mollyclosedhereyes.The dockshimmeredwithhiseveryfootstep. Molly. Atthesoundofhisdeep,softvoice,herstarvinglungs remindedhertodrawbreath.Inanagonyofanticipation, shetippedherheadaroundand, soundingmorebreathlessthansheintended,said,Hi. Hecametocrouchdownbesideher.Ididntwanttostartle you. Iheardyoupullup. Hereachedouttotouchherhair.Chriswentontobed. Shetwisted,sawthatthelightshadgoneoutinthecabin, andnodded.Ithinkhewaswaitingforyou.Shehuggedher armsaroundherknees.Ihate thathefeelsresponsibleforme. Darehesitated,sayingnothing,andthenheeaseddownto sitbesideher.He,too,staredoutatthelake.Afteratime,he spokesoftly,saying,Youreina precarioussituation.Anymanwouldworryforyou.Butthe factis,ChrisispaidtodoasItellhim,andItoldhimtokeep aneyeonyou.

ItamusedherhowbothChrisandDareconstantlytriedto makelightoftheirprotectiveinstincts.Maybe,butitwas morethanthat.Sherestedherchin onaknee.Hesoneofthegoodguys,andIknowthat.She peekedoveratDare.Iknowthedifference. Brushingthebacksofhisfingersalonghercheek,Daresaid, Yourechilled. Mollyshookherhead.Itsbeautifulhere. Hishandeasedunderherhairtocuparoundthenapeofher neck.Ithinkso,too.Hetuggedheralittleclosertohim, sharinghisbodyheat.Weboth worryforyou,Molly.Nowomanshouldhavetogothrough whatyoudid,anditsunderstandabletohavesomedifficulty withit.AllChriswants,allwewant, istomakesureyoureokay. Closinghereyes,Mollybitherlipandtriedtodecidehowto speakhermind.Histhumbbrushedoverherskin,inciting heranddoingsomuchto obliterateclearthought. Ilikeyourhands,Dare. Hewentstill,cautious.Myhands? Beforebeforewhathappened,Ineverpaidthatmuch attentiontothedifferencesinamanshands.Shereached outandfoundhisotherhand,cradling itinbothofhers.Theyresomuchbigger,somuchstronger thanmine. True. Herthroatfelttight.Andtheycandoalotofdamage withoutalotofeffort.Palmtopalm,shecomparedtheir handsbuttherewasnorealcomparison.

Hewaslargeandstrongandcapable,morethanableto defendhimselffromharm.Butshehadbeenutterlyhelpless. Darelacedhisfingerswithhers.Theycanalsoprotect. Iknow.Shelookedupathim.Thatsilvery,magic moonlightlimnedhisfeatures,emphasizingthesharplines ofhisfaceandmakinghisdarkblueeyes fathomless,sexyandsoappealing.ThatsthedifferenceI seenow,withyou.Notthepossibilityofinflictedpain,but thecompassion.Thecare.Ilookat yourhands,andIthinkofhowyoutouchme,andhowit makesmefeel. Molly.Asifpainedbyherwords,hetouchedhisforehead tohers. Youvegivenmeawholenewperspective,rightwhenI neededitmost.Ifyouhadntshownupthatday Shh.Hisholdgrewtighter.Idid,andthatsallthat matters. Needinghimtounderstand,Mollyshookherhead.Every daygotalittleworse,andIgotalittleweaker.Idontknow howmuchmoreIwouldhave suffered.IdontknowifIdevenbealiverightnowifit wasntforyou. Hishandshookashesmoothedherhairbehindherear.Im damnedgladIwasthere. Hecouldntpromisethatnothingbadwouldeverhappento heragain,becausetheybothknewhewouldntalwaysbe around.Anditwasnthis responsibilitytoprotecther,anyway.Itwashersandit wastimeshetookcontrolofherlife,startingwithrecovery fromherfear.

Thosementheyhurtmeonpurpose. Iknow.Hekissedherforehead. Sometimes,especiallywhenImalone,Icanthelpthinking, remembering,whatitwaslike. Molly Shedrewaslowbreath.Ithurt,butthefearwasworsethan thepain.Oneofthemwoulddosomething,andtheothers wouldlikeit,andtheydjoinin,and IwouldntknowSheswallowed.Ihadnoideahowfar itdgo. IwishIcouldkillthemagainforyou. Shefistedherhandinhisflannelshirt.Knowingthatthe otherwomenwerewatching,andthattheyknewhowafraid andhelplessIwas,madeitworse. Youhatedbeingdefenseless.Mostpeopledo. IthoughtIwouldfearallmenafterthat.ButIopenedmy eyesandsawyouthatfirsttime Andkickedmeinthenose. Shecouldntreallylaughrightnow,thoughshesmiledwith him.Rightafterthat,assoonasyouspoketome,Ifeltso damnsafeandsograteful.The tearsburnedhereyes,butsheblinkedthemaway.This wasntatimeforcrying.Itwasatimeforhealing. Daretippedupherchin.Youvebeenincrediblybraveand smart,andIadmireyoualot,Molly.Ihopeyouknowthat. Headmiredher.Great.Itwasnicebutshewantedmore. Sheneededmore.Wouldyoudosomethingforme,Dare? Beforehecouldspeak,Molly carriedhishandtoherbreast. Hisbodywentverystill.Secondstickedby.

Soundinghoarse,Darewhispered,Tellmewhatyouwant. Thefeelofhisbroad,stronghandagainstherlefther quakinginsideinagoodway.Thetremblesoundedinher toneasshetriedtoexplain.Iwantto bewholeagain.Iwanttobeme,thepersonIwasbeforeI wastakentoTijuana. Daresaidnothing.Mollyfelthishesitation,hisindecision. Godlovetheman,hedidntwanttotakeadvantageofher. IknowwhatIwant,Dare.Shecoveredhishandwithher own,pressedhimcloser.Iwanttoreplacethebad memorieswithnewones.Betterones. Hishandcurvedaroundher,buthesaidnothing. Watchinghisface,Mollywhispered,Iwanttodothatnow, withyou. CHAPTERELEVEN LITTLEBYLITTLE,Darerelaxeduntilhishandcurved aroundherbreast,cuddlingher.Mollycouldhearthe accelerationofhisbreathing,theincreased heatfromhisbody. Withhisvoicegoinglowandharsh,buthistouchgentle, Dareasked,Theyputtheirhandsonyou? Recallingthetotalhumiliation,thenauseaandfear,she noddedandsaidbrokenly,Yes. Here?WhenDaresthumbfoundhernipple,theyboth drewinsharpbreaths. Yes.Oh,God,shecouldntthinkwhenhetouchedher. Theydidbutnotlikethat. Themaddeningstrokeofhisthumbcontinued.Moretohurt you?

Wordswerebeyondher,soMollynoddedagain. Withsmallkissestohertemple,hercheek,thebridgeofher nose,Darenudgedherfaceupuntilhecouldfeatherlight, teasingpeckstoheropenmouth. Whenshemadeasoundofexcitement,henibbledonher bottomlip,lickedherupperlipandfinallysealedhis mouthoverhersinaconsuming,tongue twiningkiss. Allthewhile,hishandplayedwithherbreast.Mollyworea Tshirtandthesweatshirt,andstillthetouchofhishandon herwasunbearablyintoxicating. ClaspingahandaroundthebackofDaresneck,shetriedto kisshimharder,deeper. Heliftedaway,butnotfar.IfImgoingtodothis Youare.Sheneededhimsobadlythatshedinsistifshe hadto. Daresmiled.ThenIwanttodoitright. Shehadnoideawhathemeantbythat. Hiseyesglitteredatherinthedarknessbeforeshesawhis resolve.Tellmeifyoufeelanypanicatall. Iwont.Notwithyou. Hefreedherfromthequiltandspreaditoutbehindher. Coldairwashedoverher,butshewasntchilled.Farfromit. Easingherdowntoherback,Darestretchedoutbesideher. Evenwiththequiltasacushion,thewoodenboardsofthe dockshouldhavebeen uncomfortabletoherback.Butatthemoment,allMollyfelt wasDare,breathingsoclosetoher,touchingherso carefully.Shestaredupatavelvetblanket ofstarsandthefat,glowingmoon,andsheknewthetruth.

Shewasfastfallinginlovewithamanwhowantedher almostasmuchashepitiedher. Fornow,itjustdidntmatter.Sheneededthis,sheneeded him,toomuchtocareaboutanythingelse. DARELOOKEDDOWNATMolly,sotrustingandso vulnerableinwaysshedidntevenknow.Hedmadeavow tohimself,buthowcouldhehaveknown thatshedofferherselflikethis? Allduringhisdrivehome,hedthoughtofMollyslifethus far.Hermotherhaddiedtooyoung,andherfatherwasa worldclassbastard.Growingupunder BishopAlexandersrulewouldhavebeenatrialof endurance;thatmancouldmakeanyoneslifehell. Now,thankstothephotosTracehadshared,Dareknewthat Bishophadtheaffiliationsnecessarytocontinuemaking Mollyslifemiserable.Heheld closeassociationswithanumberofshadycharacters,but twoinparticularwereofinteresttoDare. ThegrainyshotshadbeenofBishopandhiswifeataformal party,chattingupwelldressedcouples.ButTracehad recognizedafewfaces:EdWarwick andMarkSagan.Tracehadgoneonefurtheranddonea preliminarydigontherelationshipbackgroundbetweenthe men. Duringapoliticalfundraiseryearsback,Bishophadaligned himselfwithEdWarwick,aretiredmilitarymanwhod takenapostasanimmigrationofficial. Onthesurface,thetwohadonlyassociatedintheir

combinedefforttofinanciallybackasenator.Later,when Warwickwasaccusedofacceptingbribes toclearthewaytocitizenshipforineligiblealiens,Bishop broketies,andWarwickhiredMarkSagan,ahighlypaid, veryelitelawyertorepresenthim. Amazinglyenough,Saganwasknownasawhiteseparatist. Manydespicabledeedshadbeenattributedtohim,but withoutproof.Saganwasthekindof manthatDaredetested:polishedandsuaveontheoutside, bloodthirstyontheinside.Throughouthislawcareer,Sagan hadacquaintedhimselfwith numerouscriminalswhoalwaysmanagedtoskirtthelaw. ShortlyafterWarwickhiredSagantorepresenthim,one witnessdiedinahitandrun,andtwootherschangedtheir stories.Warwickwasntcleared,but lackofevidencemadeitimpossibletoprosecute.Bishopand Warwickhadcelebratedasubduedreunion,andsincethen, theydbeeninvolvedinmany jointeffortswithSagan. ItwascleartoDarethatMollysfatherhadcontactshecould haveeasilyusedtosetupherkidnapping,andwithSagan,he hadaccesstothemuscleto seeitdone. Thefactsdidntlie:Bishophadtheassociationsandthe means. Butwhatwouldbethemotive? AsDaresmoothedbackMollyshair,hecouldntthinkofa singlereasonwhyherfatherwouldwanttocauseherso muchphysicalharm.Andwithouta reasonthatwouldleadhimtosomehardevidence,he

couldntofficiallyaccusetheman. Thatmeantthattheworstnotknowingwasstillaheadof her. Howcouldheeverturnherloosewithoutknowingshedbe safe?Andhowcouldhe,ingoodconscience,accepther intimateofferwhensheneededhim sobadlyforprotection? Daremadeuphismind,anditalreadytorturedhim.Hed giveMollywhatsheneeded,buthewasntgoingtohavesex withher. Notyet. Findingheronthedock,halffrozenandwithsomuchneed, workedmiraclestowardshoringuphis sometimesmisplacedhonor.Sheneededtoknow thatherlifecouldstillbethesame,andthatthenightmare wouldeventuallyfadeintoadarkbutmanageablememory. Areyoucold?Shekepttryingtocrawlintohim,clutching athimtokeephimnear,pressingherselfclose. No.Hernailsdugintohisupperarm.Dare,Iwant Shh.Itsallright.Heunzippedtheoversizehoodieand slippedhishandinside.Justrelaxforme. ThesecondhetouchedherbreastthroughthethinTshirt, shetensedandasoftmoanescapedherpartedlips. Thesoundwassweetanddesperate,proofthatshedbeen thinkingaboutthis,abouthim,forawhilenow. Youreinabadway,arentyou? Shenodded,lickedherlips.Ineedyou,yes. Becausetheyhadtouchedher,hurther,abusedher. Hehadtorememberthatthiswastoeradicateugly memories.Hehadtorememberallthatshedsuffered.

Seeingthebruiseonhercheek,Darebenttobrushhismouth overit.Theyhityouhere? Shesaidnothing,butherbreathhitched. Andhere?Skimminghismouthalongherthroat,hegently touchedeachmark,occasionallylickingoverafadingbruise orputtingasoftlovebiteover angryfingerprints.Itwassodarkoutthatheworkedby memorynotthathedeverforgetasinglemarkonher delicateskin. Mymyribs,shewhisperedbywayofencouragement, makingDaresmile. Overcomewithtenderness,rigidwithlust,hepulledthe Tshirtup.Righthere,hewhispered,knowingthathisjaw brushedherbreastashepressed openmouthedkissestoherribs. Dare.Shetunneledherfingersintohishairandarchedup alittle. Hertightholdonhishairstungalittleandshowedherlevel ofurgency.Knowingshewasready,Dareturnedtoseeher breasts.Thankstothecoldand herexcitement,hernippleswerepuckeredtight. God.Holdinghershoulders,hebenttolickfirstonenipple, thentheother,beforeclosinghismoutharoundher. Herdrawnoutgroanechoedoverthelake.Herkneescame upandshestartedtoturntowardhim.Dareheldherdown andtriedtoslowherresponsea little. Thiswasforherbuthewouldntdenyhimselfthepleasure ofherbodyintheprocess. Shegrabbedhiswristandpushedhishanddowntoher

belly. Darepaused.Hischesttightenedwithpainfulpossibilities. RepeatedlyMollyhadtoldhimthatshewasntraped.But hadthey Theydidnt,shesaidasifreadinghismind.They threatened,and,yes,theysometimestouchedmeinways theyshouldnthave.Butbutthatsnot why Helaidhishandoverthesoft,womanlyriseofherbelly. Youreawoman,andyouwantme? Yes. Hekissedhernippleagain.Already?Andthen,alittlemore desperately,Areyousure,Molly?Wehaveallnight.Theres norush. Dontmakemewait,Dare.Sheshiftedandsquirmed. Please. Amazing.Stillunsure,butunwillingtopushher,Dare cuppedhishandbetweenherlegs,touchedherlightlyalong theseamofherjeans. Herreactionwasswiftandstrong. Hesatupinarushandhadtomoveasideherhandssohe couldunsnapandunzipthejeans.Oncehehadthemopened, hepaused.Hell,itwasMarch inKentucky.Thebreezetonightwasdownrightfrigid. Heglancedupathishouse.Notthatfaraway,andahellofa lotmorecomfortableforherDare? Sheclutchedathim,confusedandanxious,andhe whispered,Fuckit.Hedraggedherjeansandpantiesdown toherknees,exposinghersex. Everythingwasinshadows,andthemoonlightthathadfelt

sobrightmomentsbeforedidntgivehimthelighthe wantednow. Hewouldnttakeher,buthewantedtoseeher,damnit,all ofher. Butofcourseheremembered,somaybeitwasbetterthathe couldntsee;bruises,scratchesinjuriesthatwentdeeper thanthemarksonherskinand flesh. Achingforwhatshedendured,Dareloweredhisheadand putagentle,barelytherekisstoherribs,herabdomen,her flatbelly.Idontwanttohurtyou, Molly. Eyeshugeanddark,shestaredupathim.Thendontstop. Hesmiledtoreassureher,buthisheartwasbreakingand hisbodyburned.Iwont.Hewouldntstop,becauseshe neededthistoomuch,buthewould goeasy.Hewoulduseultimatecarewithher. Restingonhiselbowbesideher,closeenoughtosharehis bodyheat,Darecuppedeachbreastinturn,enjoyingtheir heavyweight,thesensitivityofher tautnipples.Slowly,hestrokedhishanddowntoherbelly andfinallycuppeditbetweenherlegsagain,thistimeover hernakedsex.Exhibiting uncommonpatience,helightlyteasedthesoftpubichair. Canyouopenyourlegsforme,Molly? Heneededhertobeawillingparticipanteverystepofthe way.Heneededtoknowthatshewaswithhim,notheld captiveinbadmemories. Onasharpinhalation,sheturnedherfaceaway,andher kneesparted.

Nice.Thecoolairnowfeltgoodtohim,hewassodamn hot.Lookatme,Molly. Whenshedid,Dareleanedovertokissheragain,touching hismouthtohers,easingherintothekisstohelprelaxher. Atthesametime,heexploredher withhisfingertips,findingherfleshsleekandhotand alreadydamp. Darethoughtofsinkingintoher,ofmakingherhisinevery way,andhisbodytightened,hardened.Carefully,heopened her,strokedoverher,slippedhis fingersslightlyinsideher. Shefeltsoperfectthat,withoutmeaningto,Darepressedhis erectionagainstherhip. Holdingontohisshoulders,kissinghimwithhunger,Molly movedagainsthimandwithhim. Damn,butshewouldntlethimgoslow. Helefthermouthtokissatraildownherthroattoher collarboneanddowntoherbreasts.Shehadbeautiful,full, firmbreasts.Howthehellshekeptthem frombeingafocalpoint,hedidntknow. Hewishedheknewthecolorofhernipples,butashetook herintohismouthagain,heknewthetextureandtaste. Perfect. Theairwascold,buttheircombinedbodyheat,scentedby lust,waftedaroundthemboth.Ashesuckedonherleft nipple,Darepressedhismiddlefinger intoher. Sheclenchedhard,criedoutandliftedherhips. Movingtotheothernipple,Darelickedher,closedhisteeth gentlyaroundherandtuggeduntilshegroanedraggedly,

andthenhesuckled.Hefelther slickmoistureonhisfinger,andworkedasecondintoher, stretchingher,fillingher.Asshecriedoutagain,alreadyon theraggededge,hebroughthis thumbuptoherdistendedclitoris.Teasingoverit, manipulating,hefoundarhythmthatpushedher. Withinminutesshewaslost,herheadback,hereyesclosed asshecriedoutlongandloudwithahardrelease. Dareraiseduptolookather,drawinginashuddering breath,feelingsoconnectedtoherandcaringsomuchabout her. Fuck,butitscaredhim. Shaken,hewatchedherasthesensationsfadedandshe wentutterlylimp,andverysilent. Didsheexpecthimtomoveoverhernow,totakeherona damndockinthecoldofthenight?Orwasshedreadingthe possibility? Tryingtofindtherightwords,Daregatheredhercloseand heldhertohischest.Shesighedagainsthim,herpantsstill down,hershirtstillup. Whatthehellwashedoing? Strokingherhairbackfromherface,hekissedherforehead andhuggedheragain. Somewherebehindthem,alightcameon.Mollyflinchedin reaction,andDare,goingonthealert,movedtoshieldher withhisbody. Hewaited,poisedtoreact. Fromthefrontdoorofhiscabin,soundingchagrined,Chris calledout,Thedogsarebarking.Heclearedhisthroatloud enoughforeventhefishtohear.

Iguesstheyheardsomething. Withnothreatimminent,Darerelaxed,cursedandthen muttered,Illkillhim. Chrislaughedatthat.Voicesdocarry. Shutup,Chris. Justlettingyouknowthatthegirlsrefusedtostayinside. Justthen,TaiandSargiecamechargingacrosstheyardand ontothedock.Daregroaned,lookeddownatMollyandsaw shewassnickering. Andthatmadehimgrin,too. HepulledherTshirtdownandclosedthehoodiearound her.Britchesup,woman.Weneedtogotothehouse. Hestoodandthenmovedinfrontofhertowardoffthe enthusiasticdogs.TheywerethrilledtoseeDare,anddoubly thrilledtothinkitwasntyettimefor bed. AwareofMollymovingbehindhim,ofhersilence,Dare pettedthedogsandwaited. Shetouchedhisshoulder.Dare?Shesoundedhorribly uncertainandmorethanalittleembarrassed. Darefacedher,benttokissthebridgeofhernoseandasked, Readytogo? Sheheldthequiltinherarms.Yes,butwhataboutyou? Heputanarmaroundher.Noreasontotellherthathed intendedtosufferinsilence.Notnow.Imfine.Tired, actually.Heurgedheralongthedock towardthehouse.Timetocallitanight. ButIwouldntmind Hehadtointerrupther.Ifsheofferedherselfagain,noway inhellwouldhebeabletoresist.Mygirlsarentusedto

overnightguests.Circlingthemwith everythirdstep,thedogsshowedtheirexcitement.Dare laughed.Definitelynotusedtowomensharingmybed.And theyhavenorespectforprivacy. Mollywentsilent,anditbotheredDare.Whatdidshethink? Wasshefeelingrejected? Bendingtoherear,hesaid,Thelakeamplifieseverything, evenawhisper,remember?Whateverwesay,Chriswill hear. Oh,myGod.Shestoppeddeadinhertracks.Thatswhat hemeant Dontworryaboutit.Daresarmaroundherback propelledheralongthepath.Butwemightwanttoholdall conversationuntilwereinside,okay? ShelookedtowardChrisscabin.Hedturnedthelightsback out,butDarewaswillingtobetthatChriswasinside laughinghisassoff. Mollyputherpalmstohercheeks.WasIloud? ShespokesolowthatDarebarelyheardthequestion.He huggedherintohisside.Youwere,are,beautiful,andChris isjustadumbass.Dontgivehim anotherthought. Heopenedthebackdoortothehouse,andtheyboth steppedinside.Darkexceptforalowlightoverthesink,it wasevenmoredifficulttoseeinhere. Daredrewherupagainsthisbodyandputhischintothetop ofherhead.Areyouhungry? Sheshookherhead. Stillcold? Imfine.

Ofcourse.Shewasalwaysfine.Thenletsturnin,okay? Together. Sheperkedup,untilDareshookhishead.Tosleep,Molly.I likehavingyounexttome,butwerenotgoingtohavesex tonight.Heusedthesideofhis fistunderherchintoliftherface.NotbecauseIdontwant you.YouknowIdo.Henudgedhiserectionagainstherand sawherlipspart. Sodamnedsweetandhonest. Dareopenedhishandonherfaceandcradledhercheek.He couldntresistkissingheronemoretime.Sheleanedinto him,languidandwarmand ready. Whenheliftedhishead,hereyesslowlyopened,andasshe refocusedshelookeddownatTaiandSargiesittingbeside him.Thedogsstartedthumping theirtails. No,Daresaid,readingherthoughts.Notbecauseofthe dogs,either.Helovedhisgirls,butiftheyweretheonly thingkeepinghimfromher,hedput themontheothersideofhisbedroomdoorforanhourorso andnotfeelevenasmidgeofguiltaboutit. Herexasperationsoundedinasmallhuff.Okay,thenwhy? Mightaswellbehonestwithhertoadegree.BecauseI thinkweneedtogoslow.Ithinkyouneedtogoslow. Shelickedherlips,bitthemandclearedherthroat.Youtold metotellyouwhenIwasready. Yeah,hehad,buthehadntexpectedhertobereadyso quickly. Soon,hepromisedher.Heledheroutofthekitchenand

towardhisroom.Thereareafewmorethingsweneedto clearupfirst. Hecouldfeelherconsternationandmaybealittle annoyance. Likewhat? Likewhetherornotherfatherwasenoughofamonsterto arrangeforherkidnapping,andtheabuseshedsuffered. Butheknewfromexperiencethat bedtimewasnotimetodwellonupsettingpossibilities. WhetherMollyfeltfinerightnowornot,shestillhadalot ofadjustmentaheadofher. Letssavethatbigdiscussionfortomorrow,allright? Relievingherofthequilt,Dareeyedherclothesandasked, Areyousleepinginallthat? No.ShestrippeddowntotheTshirtandpantiesand crawledintohisbed. Justlikeshebelongedthere.Andmaybemaybeshedid. Thedogsjumpedupontothebedafterher,circled,founda spotanddropped.They,too,actedasthoughshedalways beenapartoftheirlives. AsDarewentintothebathroomtowashupandbrushhis teeth,hethoughtofwhathedlearnedaboutherfather.He sawagainthoseincriminatingphotos andfelttheanimosityBishopAlexanderhadrevealed towardhisoldestdaughter. Afterhedfinishedupandreturnedtothebedroom,he foundMollyrestingonherside,herhandsbeneathher cheek,hereyeswatchfulasshetookinhis everystep. Tomorrow,onthewaybacktoherapartment,Darewould

tellherwhatheduncoveredsofar.Hehopedlikehellshe wasasstrongassheseemed, becauseshedneedthatstrengthtocometogripswith reality. Imcold,Mollysaid.Areyoureadytocometobed? Yeah.Dareundresseddowntohisboxersandgotinbeside her.Afterheturnedoutthelight,heautomaticallyreached forher,andsheautomatically curledintohisside. Ifsomeonehadnttriedtoharmher,andifthatsomeone wasntstillavitalthreat,lifewouldbeprettydamnedsweet. AFTERAREFRESHINGsleep,Mollywokebeforedawn.Dare hadonebigarmaroundherwaist,onelegtrappingbothof hers.Hischesthairtickledher nose,andshelovedit.Hewasalwayssowarm,sosecure. Butshedawakenedwithafabulousideainhermind,and sheneededtowrite.Itamazedherthat,withverylittletime forrecovery,hermusewasbackin fullforce.Butthen,ithadalwaysbeenthatwayforher. Writingwasherescape,herentertainment,hercatharsisfor whateverbotheredher.Through storytelling,shecouldsetasideworriesandinstead immerseherselfinsomeoneelsesproblemsproblemsthat shecouldanddidfix. TryingnottoawakenDare,Mollyscootedoutfromunderhis hold.Rightbeforesheleftthebed,hishandsnaggedher wrist. Whatswrong?

Oh,crud.Shehadntmeanttodisturbhim.Nothing,she whispered.Gobacktosleep. Insteadhesatupandlookedattheclock,thenranahand throughhishair.Itsonlyfivethirty. Iknow.Nowfeelingfoolishandveryconspicuous,Molly triedtoexplain.Iwroteafewpagesyesterday.Isortof stoppedatagoodspot,andIwantedto getbacktoit. Where? WhereamIinmybook?Nowaywasshegoingtostart tryingtosynopsizeforhim. No.Hescratchedhischest.Wheredidyouwrite? Whydidthatmatter?Mollyshrugged.Intheroomyoulet meuse.Upstairs.Sinceshedyettosleepthere,shecouldnt verywellcallitherroom. Inthedim,graylight,Mollywatchedhimstretching.Thebed shiftedasherolledtohisfeet.Thenhewalkedoff,anda secondlaterthebathroomlight cameon.Hepulledthedoorshut,buthewasntgonelong. Mollyheardthetoiletflush,thenheardwatersplashinthe sink.Whenhereturned,heleftthedooropensothatthe lightspilledintothebedroom. Godhelpher,butDarelookeddeliciousinthemorningwith hiswhiskersandhisrumpledhair. Andhisbodymostlybare. Somuchstrengthshowedinhisphysique,withouthimbeing musclebound.Tall,strong,gorgeousHowwasshe supposedtoresistthat? Hewenttoadrawerandpulledoutsweats. Mollystoppedstaringandjumpedoutofthebed.Thatmade

thedogsattentive,too.Dare,whatareyoudoing? Imusuallyupbysixanyway.Hesattopullonwhitesocks andrunningshoes.Itsagoodtimetojogwiththedogs. Whentheyheardthat,bothdogsstood,earsperked,in preparationtofollowinghim. Glancingoutthewindow,Mollysawthedarkness.The whistlingofwindsoundedcold.Andhedstillbesleepingif shehadntawakenedhim.Youregoing joggingnow? Yeah.Hestoodandpulledonahoodedsweatshirt.Illwait formycoffeeuntilIgetback,buthelpyourselfifyouwantit now.Otherwise,Chriswillbeover soon,andhellgetitready. ThedogslookedfromMollytoDareandexcitedlywentto Dare. Shetrottedafterallthreeofthemastheystartedoutofthe room.Howlongwillyoubegone? Anhourorso.Maybelonger.Heturned,andshealmost ranintohim.Darecaughthershoulders.Afterthat,Illbe downstairsworkingoutforalittle while. Whocrawledoutofbedbeforedawn,ranandthenworked outwithoutcoffee?Yourekidding. Hebentandkissedherhardandfast.Sargiebarked, remindingthemboththatshehadneedofagrassyspot outside. Takeyourtimewritingtoday.Idonthaveanyplansuntil theafternoon.Andwiththat,heturnedandstarteddown thehall. Mollystaredafterhim.Plans?Whatplansdidhehave?And

whatdidthathavetodowithher? Unlessheplannedtotakeherhome. Theideawasbothtantalizingandfrightening.Sheprobably hadadozenimportantcallstoreturn;shecouldonly imaginewhathereditorandheragent thoughtaboutherdisappearinginthemiddleof negotiations.Butgoinghomemeantshewasthatmuch closertoendingherassociationwithDare. Washeanxioustogetridofher?Andifso,didithave anythingtodowithherbotchedseductioneffortlastnight? Shedredgedupeverywordshedsaid,andeventhoughshe triedtoreassureherself,onefactcomeslammingbackinto herbrain:Darehadbeen generous,butnotinterestedenoughtotakewhatshehadso freelyoffered. CHAPTERTWELVE LONGAFTERTHEFRONTdoorhadclosedbehindDare, Mollystoodthereinthedimhalltryingtounderstandhim. Finallyshedecidedthatcaffeine wouldhelp,soaftersnaggingjeansandtheallpurpose hoodie,shewentintothekitchenandgotthecoffeestarted. Asitbrewed,shewentbacktotheroomtocleanherteeth andwashherface.Herhairwasamess,andshetried smoothingitwithDarescomb,butshe hadnowayofstylingit.Blah.Shelookedterrible,andthere wasnowayaroundit. Shefoundarubberbandinthelibrarydeskdrawerwhere shedseentheofficesupplies,andshepulledherhairback

intoahighponytail.Thatatleast keptitoutofherfaceandgavethesemblanceoforder. Itwasntuntilafterherthirdcupofcoffeethatitreallyhit her:shelookedlikehell. Yes,ofcourseshedknownit;shewasntobtuseabouther ownappearance.Butinlightofmoreimportantissues,she hadntreallythoughtaboutit.She hadsomuchonhermind,andsomanyadjustments, includingthebombardmentoffeelingstowardDare. Oh,God,shedcomeontohimallhotandheavywhile lookingherabsoluteworst.Ifhehadbeenamoreaverage guy,itmightnothavebeensobad.But Darewasgorgeous,themostphysicallyfitmanshedever seen,andshelookedlikewell,ahaggardvictim. Groaning,Mollysatbackinthedeskchairwhereshedbeen tryingtowork.Thescenethatshedbeenpolishingblurred infrontofher.Notonlywasher hairfrazzledandunkempt,butshehadzipformakeup,and thephysicalmistreatmentshedsufferedstillshowedinthe hollownessofhereyesandthe marksonherskin. Shelookedaswretchedasawomancouldlook,sowhyhad shethoughtthatDarewouldwanther?Hercomeonhad probablybeenembarrassingand uncomfortableforhim.Sure,hedhadanerection,butafter all,hewasaguy,sothatdidntreallymeananything. Physicalarousaldidnotequalpersonal interestwhichDarehadprovenlastnight. Hedbeenkind,tellingherthathewantedherandthathe onlywantedtowaituntilshewastrulyready.

Howmuchmorereadycouldshehavebeen?Shedallbut beggedhimtohavesexwithher. Andinsteadhedgivenheranorgasm,thentakenhertobed andsleptwithherheldtightagainsthimallnight. Whatguydidthat? Everymaleshedeverknownhadmadesexthenumberone priority.Ithadnttakenseductionoreven encouragementalookwasmorethanenoughto getthingsrollingalong.Shecouldntimagineanyotherman sheddatedeverturningdownanofferforsex,notifhewas attractedtothewomanand sometimesevenifhewasnt. EventhoughsheacceptedthatAdrianhadneverreallyloved her,hedwantedher.Ormaybenotherspecifically,buthe hadwantedsex.Forcertain,hed neverturnedherdown;infact,whenshedbeen uninterestedfromillnessorstress,orwhenshedjustbeen toobusy,hedstilltriedtoinsist. Shedacceptedthatasanaturalwayformen. DidDareholdbackbecausehewantedtoberidofher,even thoughtheydidntyetknowtheoneresponsibleforher abduction?Maybe,tohismind,sex wouldcomplicatethingsandinsomewayobligatehim. ToomanyunansweredquestionsmadeMollysheadache. WhensheheardChrisinthekitchen,shesavedherfileand wentdownstairs,hopingforsomeinsightintoDares personality. Chrisstoodatthesink,staringoutthekitchenwindow. Dressedinwornjeansandafadedsweatshirtwithrunning shoes,helookedcomfortableand

handsome.Sheimaginedhegotplentyofattentionwherever hewent. ASSHECAMETHROUGHthedoorway,Chrisglancedover hisshoulderather,andhisexpressionwarmed.Hey. Goodmorning. Thanksformakingthecoffee.Helookedherover,butthen turnedtostareoutthewindowagain. Whatwasthatabout?Mollylookeddownatherselfbutsaw nothingamiss.Ialmostdrankitall,too,somaybeyou shouldntthankme. Holdingupamug,heshowedherthathedalreadygotten his,andhehadanotherpotbrewingforDare.Darelikesit stronger.Leaningagainstthe counter,henoddedtowardthewindowandsaid,Didyou seethis? What? Thesunrisingoverthelake.Hebeckonedherforward. Comehere.Ithinkyoulllikethis.Andthen,moreto himselfthanher,Somehowcoffeetastes betterwithsuchanamazingbackground. Intrigued,Mollywalkedovertothewindow,too.She bumpedshoulderswithChrisasshepeeredout,andher creativesoulsoakedinthesight. Wow.Itsbeautiful.Fromthisdistance,higherupthe slopinglandscape,shecouldseethroughthetreestothe dockandboathouse,andbeyond.Wisps offog,mysteriousandmagical,floatedupfromtheglassy surfaceofthecalmlake.Inselect,glisteningplaces,the

sunshinecutthroughandreflected backonitself.Itsalmostbreathtaking. Chrislookeddownather.Inspiring,huh? Illsay. Lookslikeitsgoingtobeagorgeousday.Heheadedtothe barwithabowlofcoldcereal.SoonasImdonewithmy breakfast,Illbedrivingintotown topickupyournewclothes. Reluctantly,Mollyturnedawayfromthescenery.Theyre in? Gotanemailconfirmingdelivery.Hisgazeneverwavered fromher,andwhenherealizedhewasstaring,heasked abruptly,Cereal? Oh,sure.Notunderstandinghim,Mollywentforabowl andspoon. Darewillcooksomethinghardierwhenhesdone downstairs,butdontholdyourbreath.Hesbeatingthe heavybagprettyhardtoday.Expression enigmatic,Chrissaid,Cantimaginewhathashimso workedup. Cerealisfine.Mollyfrownedasshejoinedhimatthebar. Tryingtosoundcavalier,shesaid,YousayDaresworked up? Chrisblinkedather.Youcouldnttell? Ibarelysawhimthismorning.Withinminutesofbeing awake,hewasdressedandoffjogging. Mmm.Chriscoughed.Well,allIcansayisthatDareoften takesouthisfrustrationsinthebasement.Itsalwaysbestto leavehimtoit. WasDareannoyedwithherandexertingenergybecauseof

it?Tryingtosidleinonthatpossibility,Mollysaid,Ithink wemightbegoingbacktomyplace today. Yeah,hetoldme.Chrisshoveledinaheapingspoonfulof cereal. Mollywentblank.Hetoldyou? Chrisnodded. Affronted,Mollysatbackinherchair.So,Darehadshared hisintentionswithChris,butnotwithher?When? Lastnight,beforehejoinedyoudownonthedock. Catchingontohermood,heexplained,HetoldmesothatI couldpackforhimandgetthetravel plansallsetup. Shefeltcantankerousenoughtosay,Youshootup I75notmuchtoplan,isthere? UnlessyoureDare.RememberwhatItoldyou?Helikesto arrangeforeverypossibility.Ivemadenoteofgasstations, restaurantsandmotels. Motels?Mollypausedwithaspoonfulofcerealalmostto hermouth.Thatmadenosensetoher. Teasing,Chrissaid,Itsafourhourdrive,fiveifyoustopto eat.Youreallyneverknowwhenyoumightneedaroom. Oh,forheavenssake.WhywouldweAndsuddenlyshe caughton:Chriswasreferringtowhathedheardlastnight. Fromher. Aghast,Mollythrewapieceofwetcerealathim,hittinghim deadcenterinthechest.Thecerealbouncedoffontothe tablebutleftaspotofmilkonhis sweatshirt. Noteventryingtohidehislaughter,Chrissnatchedupthe

cerealandpoppeditintohismouth.Imalldonehere.He rosefromhisseat.IfyouseeDare, tellhimIllbebackwithinanhour. Withheatstillthrobbinginherface,Mollytriedtoplayoff herembarrassment.Wherearethedogs? DownstairswithDare.Chriswalkedtowardher,pausedto givehershoulderasqueezeandthenwhistledashe snatchedupkeysandleftthekitchen. DarehadwarnedheraboutChris,buthehadntmentioned howmuchthemanlikedtotease,andhislackofpropriety. Atalossastohowtoproceed,Mollytookhertimefinishing hercereal.Shedidntevenknowherselfanymore.Notonly hadChrisremindedheroflast night,butshedjustbehavedlikeachildbythrowingher foodathim. Proppingherheadonherfist,shewishedsheatleasthad thedogsforcompany.Shedgottenusedtotheirconstant shadowing.Butitmadesensethat nowthatDarewasaroundtheywantedtobewithhim.She couldseehowmuchhelovedTaiandSargie,andhowmuch theylovedhim. Itwouldhelphertosortthingsoutifsheknewmoreabout Dare.Thingslikehowmuchtimeheactuallyspentaway withhiswork.Andmoredetailsabout hisworkwouldbenice,too.Heobviouslydidverywellfor himself,givenhispropertyandhiseaseinspendingmoney. Didhiscareerchoiceofteninvolve killingmonstrousbadguys?Orhadhersituationbeen somehowunique? Giventheoddityofhiswork,whendidhelasthaveasteady

girlfriend?Wasasteadygirlfriendevenpossible? Mollywantedtoknowabouthisfamily,otherfriendshe mighthave,preferencesanddislikesandeverything. ShedidnthaveChrisorthedogstokeephercompany,but whenthenoiseinthebasementcontinued,shedecidedshed dowelltostaybusy. Afterclearingawaythebreakfastmess,shedraggedherself backupstairstowrite.Thistimeherattemptsatthat distractiondidntlastbeyondahalfhour. Hermusewouldntcooperateanymore. ShetriedgoingouttheFrenchdoorsforsomefreshair,but insteadsheendedupstaringatthedockandremembering. Herskintingledandwarmed, andherbodyfelttight. Sometimesasteamyshowerhelpedkickstarthermuse.She spentalmosthalfanhourunderthehotspray,andeven washedherhairagain,adding extraconditioner.Afterward,herhairwasfluffierandher skinglowed,butoveralltheeffortwaswasted. AsMollystaredinthemirror,shecouldnthelpbutpay attentiontothebruisingthatcoloredherskin.The oncepurplemarkswerealreadyfadingtoa sicklyyellowandpalegreen. Herstomachtwistedinthatnowfamiliarway,wrenchedby rememberedfearandchokinguncertainty.Thosemenhad hurthersomuch,notjustphysically, butherprideandherspirit.Neverinherlifehadshebeenso scared,andsodespondent.Neverhadshethoughtanything soawfulcouldhappentoher. Nowsheknew,andherlifewouldneverbethesame.

IfithadntbeenforDare,shemightbetherestill.Orshe couldhaveevenbeenkilled,andnoonewouldhaveever knownwhathappenedtoher. Buthehadsavedher.Inanononsenseway,hedreassured her,caredforher,protectedher. Andlastnighthehadtouchedher,givinghernewmemories tofocuson. TheuglinessofcaptivityfadedasshethoughtaboutDare andhowhedmadeherfeel.Shealmostfeltitagain,just remembering. Herpale,marredskinnowhadabecomingflush.Thanksto Dareandwhatheddone,shelookedbetter,butshecouldnt lietoherself. Shewasstillanaveragethirtyyearoldwoman,andnothing wouldchangethat. Tohellwithit,Mollydecided.Shedneverbeenvain,andshe wasntgoingtostartnow.Shelikedherself,andshewas satisfiedwithherlooks.No,she wasntglamorousorflashy.Shewouldneverturnheads.But neitherwouldanyonecallheratroll,evenwithafew discoloredbruises. Withnewresolve,shewentbackdownstairsandstoodright outsidethebasementdoor.Dareworkedforher,she remindedherself.Intheend,shewould bepayinghimanindeterminateyetsurelyheftyfee.That meantshewasdueafewanswers,whethershehada romanticinvolvementwithhimornot. Assoonassheopenedthedoor,shecouldhearasteady punchingsoundaccompaniedbyloud,hardmusic.Atleast shehadonecuriositysatisfied;

Darelikedhardrock,justasshedid.Surelymusicwouldnt betheonlythingtheyhadincommon. Herheartpoundedintimetothebeat.Puttinghershoulders back,Mollydescendedthesteps. EVENBEFORESHEshowedherself,DaresensedMollys approach.Sodidthedogs.Theyjumpedup,andthe tailwaggingbegan. Fewpeoplehadeverencroachedintohisprivateworkout territory,butoddly,hedidntmindthatshewashere.Infact, hedbeenthinkingabouther, wonderinghowherwritingwasgoing,andifshedeaten. Worryingforanyone,especiallyawomanforwhomhed acceptedresponsibility,wasnewtoDare.Hedalwaysbeen abletoseparatetheliabilityofthe jobwithemotionalattachment. ButwithMolly,everydamnthingseemeddifferent,andvery personal. Whenhefeltherburninggazeonhisback,hepausedand lookedtowardher.Asamanwhoalwaysnotedthesmallest details,herealizedrightoffthat shedtakenextracarewithherappearance.Toimpresshim? Hiseyesnarrowedatthatthought.Ifthewomanunderstood howmuchrestraintittooktoresisther,shewouldntbeso comfortablewithhim. Astheirgazeslocked,Mollytriedforasmilethatdidntquite reachhereyes.Holdingback,shestayedagooddistance fromhim,asifunsureofher welcome.

Thatbuggedhim. Pickingupatowelandwipingsweatfromhisface,Dare turnedtowardher.Youlooknice,Molly. Colortingedhercheeks.Thankyou.Andthen,inarush, TheresreallynotmuchIcando.Imean,notwithout makeupandstylingproductsformyhair Youlookdamnedgoodwithoutit.Helikeditthatshe didntspendhoursinthebathroomprimping.Ormaybeshe didundernormalcircumstances.He couldntknow. Hehadtorememberthatinmanyways,Mollywasstilla strangertohim. Whathedidknowabouthercountedforalot,though. Sheddealtrationallywithherordeal,forfeitingtheexpected hystericsasmuchfrombonedeepprideasacommonsense needtosurvive.Inacrisis, Mollywouldbeahelp,notahindrance.Underpressure,she keptherwitsabouther. Mostofall,heknewthatshewasafighter.Anddamn,buthe admiredthat.Toomuch. So.Awareofhowshestaredathisnaked,sweaty chestandlowerDarestudiedherstiffposture.He soundedgruffwhenheasked,Didyouneed something? No.Shelookedaroundthegymarea.Notreally. Otherthanfillingthebasementwithfitnessgear,hednever botheredtodoanythingwithit.Hehadplentyoflivingspace upstairs,andhesureashell didntneedfancysurroundingstostayinshapeandbreaka sweat.

Inorganizedfashion,matscoveredtheconcretefloor,and equipmenthungfromhooksinthewalls.Arefrigerator stockedwithcoldwatersatalongthe backwall,andadjacenttothatwasatreadmill,anelliptical machine,abenchandweights,andotherassortedexercise apparatus.Hehadagenerous, tiledcornershowerandacabinetfilledwithtowels. Pickingupthestereoremote,Dareturneddownthemusic. Mollyhadcometohimforsomereason,butshewasbeing shyaboutspeakinghermind. Everythingsokay? Shenoddedasshecontinuedtolookaround. Notthattherewasallthatmuchtosee.Otherthanwhenit wascleanedandsanitized,nooneventureddownherebut him. Leavingthetoweltodrapearoundhisneck,Darewentfora waterbottle.SinceMollystayedsilent,hesupposeditwas uptohimtofigureoutthereason behindhervisit.Getmuchwritingdone? Hergazecamebacktohim. Thenwentoverhim.Slowly. Shedrewinashakybreath. Ah.Shestillwantedhim.Goodthing,too,sincehedidnt knowhowmuchlongerhedbeabletowait. Maybeheshouldhavetakenherlastnight.Thatthoughthad drivenhimtoahardjog,andthenapoundingworkout.Not thattheexertionhadworkedto relievehisneed.Notenough. Heburnedwithwantingher.Itwasinsane,unaccountable, butMs.MollyAlexanderpushedallhisbuttons.Evennow,

coveredinsweat,hecouldtakeher. Hesawitinhereyesandinthewaysheheldherself.Itwasa uniquetypeofhell,havingtoresisther. Butneverinhislifehadheabusedanyonestrust,andhe wasntgoingtostartnow.Theywouldbothlivewiththe needuntilthetimewasright.Waitingjust meantthatwhenhedidfinallyhaveher,theredbeno holdingback. Shehadtobeready,becauseheintendedtokeephernaked andinthebedforhours. Affectedbyherintimatelook,Daredroppedhisheadtostare athisfeetinconsternation.Mollycouldnthideherfeelings worthadamn,whichmeanther physicalattractiontohimwasmorethanobviousandit pushedhim. Hedjustspentalongtimetryingtoworkoffthesexual tension,butknowinghowmuchshewantedhimbroughtit allrightback. Watchingher,Dareswiggedthewater,setthebottleaside andtookafewstepscloser.Imsweaty. Shelookedfromhisbarefeettohishipstohischest,bither lipsandsaid,Youlookpowerful,likeanancientwarrior. Thatsentimentsurprisedashortlaughoutofhim.Ifyou sayso.Tryingtoputheratease,headded,Iliketowearas littleaspossiblewhenImworking out.Givesmemorefreedomofmovement. Isee.Sheglanceddownathisgymshorts,andthenaway. Howoftendoyoudothis? This? Workoutforsolong.

Hadntbeenlongenoughtoalleviatehisknottedmuscles, buthesawnopointintellingherthat.Instead,herolleda shoulder.WheneverIcan.He thoughttoadd,Itsimportantformetostayinshape. Hergazelatchedontohisagain.Becauseofwhatyoudo? Yeah.Andbecauseofwhathemighthavetodo.Inhisline ofwork,chasingdownatargetwasaslikelyasadirect physicalconfrontation.Andinmore thanoneinstance,hedhadtocombatmultipleadversaries. Healwayswon. Mollycrossedherarmsunderherbreasts.I,um,Isawyou hittingthatpunchingbag. Aheavybag.Dareflexedhishandsinsidethefingerless gloves.Hismusclesburned,andsodidhislibido.Iuseitto practicestrikesandkicks.He knewhowtodebilitate,orevenkill,withasingleblow. Yourereallygood,arentyou? Hewas,butshehadntcomedownheretocomplimenthim, andtheybothknewit.Ihavetobegoodatmyjob,Molly. Andthatincludesbeingableto defendmyself,andothers. Likeyoudefendedme? Hedkilledforher.Rememberingthat,thinkingofhowshed lookedwhenhefoundher,addedastraintohistone.Ido whatIhavetodo. Haveyoukilledmanypeople? Narrowinghiseyes,Darestaredather,tryingtofigureout whereshewasgoingwiththis.Butforonce,shehidher thoughtsfromhim. Wouldshebedisgustedwiththetruth?Couldshehandlethe

realityofwhathedid?LetsjustsaythatIvekilledonmore thanoneoccasionandletitgo atthat.Waitingforherreaction,hewalkedovertothe benchandsatdowntounlacehisgloves. Itseasyforyou? Noteasy,no.Justaccepted.Hopingshedunderstand,Dare said,Itsimportantformetohavethatcapability,andto knowthatIwonthesitatetogo therewhenitsnecessary. Why? Shedidntlookfrightenedordisgusted,justveryinterested. Darerestedhisforearmsoverhiskneesandstudiedher. KnowingthatIcangothedistance, thatIcandowhateverhastobedonetofinishajob,makes meabetterfighterbecauseIcanengageinacalm,calculated way,withoutfear.Andusually withoutanger.Butthenhethoughtoftheincidentinthe Walmartparkinglot,andhowblindlyfurioushedbeen whenthosemenhadtriedtotakeher. Withoutmeaningto,withouteventrying,Mollyfuckedwith hisperformance,demolishingyearsofskillandtraining. Shewasdangerous,andhewantedhertoomuchtocare. Itmustbenice,shesaid,surprisinghimwithher acceptanceofthedarkersideofhislife.Tonotbeafraid,I mean. Thereitwas,thereasonforhisrestraintwithher.Forthe restofherlife,Mollywouldrememberwhatshedsuffered, andshewouldfearthingsthatshe hadnt,untilrecently,knownwerepossible.Youreanice woman,Molly.Iwouldntwantyoutochange.

Ithinkyourenice,too. Ifviperscouldbeconsiderednice. Itwasimportanttohimthatsheunderstoodonecrucial aspectofhisability.Icankillwithmybarehands.Knowing thatmakesmemoreeffectiveinafight becausehavingthatabilityusuallyletsmeendthings withoutdeadlyforce. Youdontkillunlessyouhaveto. Orwhenheknewtheworldwouldbesaferwithout someoneleftalive.Butthatwasapointhecouldmake lateriftheyhadalater. Dareheldhergaze.Doesthatsatisfyyourcuriosity?Itsure ashelldidntsatisfyhis. Aboutyourwork,yes.Shekeptherdistance.ButIdliketo knowmoreaboutyou.Howyougotyourstart,thethings youenjoy,thedaytodaystuff. Toomuchcuriositywouldbedangerous.Youwantthebare bonesofmylife? Measuringherwordswithcare,shesaid,Iwantwhatever youllsharewithme. Hismouthtwitched.Itwasalittlelateforhertoworryabout seemingnosy,buthestillappreciatedhergoodmanners. WhenIwasseventeen,Ijoinedthe service. Butthatdmeanyouwereaminor.Isthatallowed? Dareshrugged.Withparentalconsent,yeah. Shelookedappalledthatanyonehadagreedtohis enlistment. Itwasagooddecision,Molly,oneofthebestthingsIever did.EveryonerealizedrightoffthatIhadaknackfordefense

andforfollowingthrough.He pulledoffthegloves.Ifthatmeantkillingsomeoneintenton harmingmeorothers,thenthatswhatIdid. Shesaidnothingtothat.Daresettheglovesasideandbraced hishandsonthebench.But,Molly,understandthatIdetest bulliesandneedlessviolence. Iwouldneverharmaninnocentorwatchsomeoneelse causeharm.Wheneverpossible,Iavoidallphysicalconflicts. Ihavenoproblematallwalking awayfromafightwhenwalkingawayisanoption. YoukilledthosemeninMexico. Yeah.Shehadntsaiditasanaccusation,butas confirmation.But,Molly? Shelookedathimwithbig,darkeyes. ThatwasbeforeIsawwhattheyddonetoyou.Youarent responsibleforanyofthat. Shebitherlipsandnodded.Imsureyoudidwhatneeded tobedone. Darefeltstrangledbyhertrust.Hisfingerscurvedaround thebench,grippingithard.TheyhadtakenAlani. Iknow.Shesoundedfartoogentle,andfartoo understanding.Youtoldmethatsheslikeasistertoyou. Shit.Hedidntwanttoexplainemotionalentanglements.But hestillheardhimselfsay,SheandTracearemorelike familythanmyrealfamilyis. Shethoughtforasecond,thenasked,Doyouseeyour parentsoften? Dareshookhisheadandrelaxedalittle.Hecouldtalkabout this,abouthisparents,withoutthesentiment.Daddiedina smallplanecrashyearsago.

MomisremarriedandlivinginMichigan.Ivisitwithhera coupleoftimesayear. Yourenotclose? Notreally,notsinceDaddied.Heshrugged.Wegetalong fine,mostlybecausewedontseeeachotherrealoften.He waitedforhertodigintothat, andhehadnoideawhathedtellher. Howcouldhemakeherunderstandthathedalwaysbeena loner?Hismotherhadntbeenthesamesincetheplane crash,notthatshedeverbeenreal clingybeforethat.Butmaybeithadnothingtodowithhis mother.Helovedher,buthehadnoneedtobeinconstant contactwithher.Sheseemedtofeel thesame. Mollybypassedhisexpectedquestionstoask,Any siblings? Thisfeltlikeaninterrogation,butallthingsbeingequal,he supposedheowedhersomeinfo.No.Astepbrotherfrom Momssecondmarriage.Hesa doctor.Niceenoughguy.AndDarehadnothingincommon withhim. Doesyourmotherknowwhatyoudo? Hell,no.Onlyahandfulofpeopleweretrustedenoughto knowthefulltruth.SheknowsIhireoutasadefenseand securityspecialist.Thenittygritty detailsarentupforpublicconsumption. Evenwithyourmother? Levelingalookonher,Dareemphasized,Withnoone. Oh.Mollyretreatedemotionally.Sorry. Damnit.Darefeltherwithdrawal,anditpissedhimoff.It

wasntherfaultthathedalreadytoldhermorethanmost knew.OnlyChrisandTracewereprivy totheprivateparticularsofhiswork,butforsomereason, talkingwithMollywasfartooeasy. Ifhewasntcareful,hedfindhimselfspillinghisgutsand heknewthatwouldntbesmart,orprudent.Forgetabout it. Ididntmeantopry. Yeah,youdid.Butitsokay.Wemightaswellgetthisover with. Shewinced. Becausehewaswatchinghersoclosely,Daresawher uneasiness,anditbotheredhim.Shedbeenthroughenough withouthimbadgeringher.Gently, heasked,Anythingelseyouwanttoknow,Molly? Herbraverywaned,butshefinallyasked,Doyoutravelalot withyourwork? Thesedays,notasfarandnotasoften.TracesaysIm semiretired.Onlywhenareallyimportantcasecomesalong doIgetinvolved.Onlywhenhefelt hewastrulyneeded,orifitbecamepersonal,asithadwith Alani. Neitherofthemwouldeversaythatitwasagoodthingthat Alanihadbeentaken.Butatthesametime,ifshehadnt beenwhatwouldhavehappened toMolly?IfnotforAlani,Darewouldnthavebeenthere,and Mollywouldhavehadnoonetogetheroutofthathellhole, andnoonetoprotectherevenif shehadmanagedtoescape. Asiftheysharedthatthought,theirgazeslockedandheld.

Darefeltthegrowingsexualtensionbetweenthem. Mollyslipsparted;Darescontrolslipped. Knowinghewasagoner,hetookasteptowardherandhis cellphonerang.Broughtbacktohissenses,Darestopped deadinhistracks. Sad,andmaybealittlelost,Mollygaveahalfheartedsmile. Doyouneedprivacyforthatcall? Oh,no,hewouldntletherslipawaythateasily.No.Stay put.Hewaiteduntilsheleanedbackagainstthewall,then added,Illonlybeasecond. CHAPTERTHIRTEEN DAREHATEDTHEinterruption,butsincemostcallswent throughthehousephone,whereChriscouldvetthem,any callonhiscellwaspersonaland thereforeimportant. WithonelastlingeringlookatMolly,hewalkedoverto retrievehisphonefromatoptherefrigerator.Afteraquick glanceatthenumbertoidentifyhiscaller, heflippedthephoneopen.Yeah? Withoutpreamble,Tracesaid,Wouldyoubewillingtodo meafavor? Depends.DarelookedatMolly.ForTrace,heusuallygave blindagreement,knowingthathisfriendonlyaskedwhen necessary.Butnowhehad someoneelseswelfaretoconsider.Fornowatleast, ensuringMollyssafetywashisnumberonepriority. Whatsup? FrustrationsoundedinTracestone.Alaniisinsistingon meetingyourcomplication.

DaresmouthtwitchedathowTraceputthat.Mollywasa complication,allright,inmorewaysthanhedfiguredon. Butmaybeheshouldstopreferringto herassuch,consideringhowshedgottenunderhisskin. Why? HellifIknow.Ihatetoask,Dare.Godknowsyouvedone enough.ButIthinkitmightbegoodforhertotalkto anotherwomanwhosbeenthroughthe samething. WatchingMollywanderovertotheheavybagtogiveita tentativepush,Daresaid,Itwasntthesame.Itoldyou that. AndItoldAlani.Butshespressingmeforameeting anyway. Mollytriedsmackingtheheavybag,and,withanexpression ofpain,shecradledherhandandfrowned. Thepersonalitiesofthetwowomencouldntbemore disparate;onewasacommonsensesurvivor,theothera verylovableprincess.Wanttotellme why? ItwasnteasyforTracetoadmitthatheneededhelpwith hissister.Sheshavingtroubleadjusting,Dare.Imworried abouther. Hangon.Dareloweredthephone,whichgainedMollys attention.Whenshelookedtowardhim,hesaid,Alani wantstomeetwithyou. Surpriseflashedoverherfeatures.Me?Butwhy? Youwerebothtaken,bothheldagainstyourwill.Knowing Alani,shesprobablyworriedaboutyoustill,andshemaybe justwantstoconnectwith

someonewhollunderstandwhatshesbeenthrough. Alreadyknowingwhatheranswerwouldbe,Darewaited. Issheokay? Thatwasdebatable,butDaresaidonly,Shessafeand healthy,andstillcoping. Well,sure.Imean,ofcoursesheis.Handstogether,brows downinworry,Mollynodded.Idbehappytomeetherif shethinksthatwillhelp.Butwhen? Darewentbacktothephone.Noproblem,Trace.When wereyouthinking? LetmetalktoAlani,andIllgetbacktoyou.Wellworkit out. Givemeacallwhenyouknow. Willdo.AndDare,thankyou. Theyhungup,andDaredroppedthephonedownontohis gloves.HewatchedMolly,sawherputherhandtoher stomachasiftocalmanunsteadybelly. DidtheideaofmeetingwithAlanidistressher?Woulditbe anuglyremindertoherofhowshehadbeenseparatedand treateddifferentlyfromthe others? Ifeelsobadforher.ShelookedupatDare.Shesyoung, isntshe? MollyscapacityforcompassionamazedDare.Shes twentytwo. Appearingdistressed,Mollyshookherhead.ThankGodshe hasyou,Dare.Imnotsureanyoneelsecouldhavegotten heroutofthere. Daresteppedoverclosertotheheavybag.Molly? Shejerkedherattentionbacktohim.Hmm?

Howareyoufeeling? Shewavedthatoff.Imfine. Somethingwasgoingoninthatquickmindofhersbut what?Mollyhadntcomedownstairsjusttotalktohim abouthisworkorhissociallife.She wanted,needed,something. Fornow,Dareletherkeepherdistance.Besides,hewas sweatyashellandstilledgywithlust.Hefiguredhecould workhimselfintotheground,andthe secondhesawMollyagainitwouldntmatteroneiota. Youknow,hesaidtoher,youalwayssayyourefine, abouteverything. Asiftokeepfromchickeningout,sherushedintospeech. Actually,Iwantedtotalktoyou. Hissensesprickled.Weweretalking. Iknow,buttheressomethingelseIwantedtoknow. Yeah?Whatmorecouldtherebe?Shehadthebasicsofhis history.Ifshewantedabodycount,shecouldforgetit.He didntdwellonthemenhed killed,buthedidntcelebratethem,either. Herteethcaughtherbottomlip.Sheshiftedherstance.Last night Awarenesssharpening,Daretookastepcloser.Lastnight? Shehalfturnedaway,thenjerkedaroundtofacehimagain. Handsout,facescrunched,shesaid,Idsortofforgotten howbadIlook. Objectiontothatsnappeddownhisbrows.Thesecondshed comedownstairs,hedlosthisbattlewithlust.Everymuscle inhisbodyburned,butnotfrom exercise;itwassexualneedthatmadehimrigid.

Andshethoughtshelookedbadenoughtodiscouragehim? Dareputhisfistsonhishipsandstaredatherhard.Come again? Herexpressionshowedtormentanddetermination.Iknow thebruisesandothermarksarebadenough,butitsworse thanthat.Idontwearalotof makeup,butlikemostwomenIhavemyownroutine,and thefactthatIvemisseditshows.Ontopofbeing worndown,myhairistheworstever.Self consciously,sheshovedahandintotheunrulytresses.I looklikelikeahag. Daresjawtightened.Notevenclose. Butitwasasifshedidnthearhim.Youhadkissed mebefore,ImeansoIassumedthat Aconstrictionstartedinhischest.IalreadytoldyouwhyI kissedyou. Sheshookherheadasifdumbfoundedbyhisreaction.I know,butallthingsconsidered,itstillseemslikeitwasjust todistractme,andtohelpme. Gesturing,sheadded,Youreaguy,andguysdontalways doorsaythingsthattheymean. Shedaredtogrouphiminwiththeassholesshedknown? Didshecomparehimtothatdipshitexfiancofhers? Sonofabitch. Hehadntfiguredonthat;ifanything,hethoughthedbetoo differentfromothermen. Fightinghimselfwashardenough;fightingher,too,was damnnearimpossible. Staringintohereyes,Dareheldhergaze.Iwantyou,Molly. Neverdoubtthat.

Thistimeherhandwentoverherheart,andDaresawa pulsebeatwildlyinherthroat. Iknowyousaidyoudid,but Stillholdstrue.Hetookastepcloser,butthenstopped himself.Ifhetouchedher,hedloseitforsure.Afterlast night,morethanever. Shouldersslumping,Mollyshookherhead.Idont understandyouatall.Everythingyoudidlastnight Yeah.God,hewouldrememberthatfortherestofhislife. Nowaywouldheletherdenywhattheyddone.Igotyou off,andyoulikedit. Sheblinkedfastinmixedembarrassmentandconfusion. Butthenyoustopped!Herdarkeyeswerehugeandfilled withaccusation.Ifitsnotbecause Imuglyrightnow,well,then,tellmewhyyoustopped.Make meunderstand. Ugly?Jesus,isthatwhatshethought?Herehewas,doinghis damndesttobenoble,andshethoughtshewasntappealing enough? Throughhisteeth,Daresaid,Youwantmetospellitoutfor you? Uncertainly,shenodded. Fine.Letherdealwiththetruth.IfallIwantedwasafuck, trustme,Molly,youdamnwellwouldhavebeenfucked. Hermouthfellopen. Dareturned,poundedtheheavybagthreemoretimes,butit didnthelp.Knucklesaching,hedroppedhishands.Howthe hellcouldhemakeher understandwhathehadntyetfiguredoutforhimself? Voicestrained,hesaid,Ilikeyou,Molly.

Heheardherinhale. Overhisshoulder,gazesharpandtemperprimed,helooked ather.Icareaboutyou. Youdo? Intwolongstrides,heclosedthedistancebetweenthem. Shebackedup,butthenbumpedintothewall. Tonight.Becausehecouldntstophimself,Dareflattened hishandsonthewalltoeithersideofherhead.Heleaned closer,loomedoverherwithout lettinghisbodytouchhers. Tonight?shewhispered. Atfiveseven,shewasconsiderablyshorterthanhim,small, delicate,vulnerable.Andhewaswildforher.Hewantedto carryhertotheground,pinher downwithhisbodyandtakehisfill. Breathinghard,Darebentandputhismouthtohers.He didnttouchherinanyotherway.Hedidntdaretempt himselfthatmuch;hecouldntgothere,not rightnow. Thekisswaswarmandfirm,andthoughMollydidntrealize ityet,itwaspossessiveashell.Alinehadjustbeencrossed, andhedidntgiveadamn. Shedaskedforit,soshedgetit,andthentheycoulddeal withherreactiontogether. Whenshemoanedandtouchedherhandstohischest,he straightenedandtookaquickstepback.Tonight,Molly.If youstillfeelthesametonight,then Imdoneobjecting. Tonight? Wasshehavingsecondthoughts?Makedamnsureyou

knowwhatyouwantbeforethen,becauseImnotaman whosgoodwithhalfmeasures.He caughtherchin,determinedtomakeherunderstand.Once wereinthatbedtogether,weregoingtobethereforafew hours,maybealldamnnight.And trustme,Molly,beforeweredone,youllknowtheresnota damnthingaboutyouthatIfindunappealing. Herlipstrembled;shecoveredhishandwithherown.All right.Shedrewinaslow,shiveringbreathandstartedto reachforhimagain. AndChrisyelleddownthestairs,IsMollydownthere?I cantfindher. Mollyjumpedbackasifshedbeencaughtdoingsomething naughty.Herreactionwasamusing,butDarewasalongway fromhumor.Chriswasgone? Shenodded.Hewentintotowntogetmystuff. Darestudiedherflushedface,andthenhenotedhowher nippleshadtightenedbeneathhersweatshirt.Without takinghisgazeoffherbreasts,heyelled uptoChris,Shellberightthere. Ooookay,Chrissaid,andtheybothheardthebasement doorclose. Chriswasgivingthemprivacy,butDaredidntwantit.Not here,notlikethis.ButnowthathedtoldMollyhowhefelt, thebarriersseemedvery insubstantial.Ifhedidntgetsomespace,hedenduptaking heronthecoldconcretefloor. Ineedtoshower,hetoldher,andthenIllberightup.As dismissalswent,thatwasprettyclear. Oh.Right.Keepingherbacktothewall,Mollysidled

towardthestairs.Illjustbeupthere.WithChris. Darecouldnttakehisgazeoffher.Givemetwenty minutes. Shecontinuedtoretreat.Twentyminutes. Obviouslyhedthrownherforaloop.SeemedfairtoDare, givenhowshedturnedhiminsideout. Hisjawflexed.Getgoing,Molly,beforeIchangemymind. Sheturnedandhustledupthestairs,fascinatingDarewith thattautbehindandthebouncingofherfullbreasts.He stoodtheretransfixed,watchingher untilshereachedthetopofthestairsanddisappearedfrom hissight. Damn,butshewassomething.Pure.Honest. Agreatcontradictiontothelifehedbuiltforhimself,alifeof precision,deceptionanddetection. BeingaroundMollyfeltgood. Todayhedmakeherconfrontherlifebackhome,and,God willing,tonightshedstillwanthim. KATHIBERRYALEXANDERfinishedgivingdirectionstoone ofthewellmanneredhouseholdstaffbeforeshestarted downthehallwayofthemansion shesharedwithherhusband,BishopAlexander.Allherlife, shedbeengroomedfortheskillfulorganizationand planningrequiredforaresidencethis largenotthatBishopunderstoodorappreciatedher significantcontributiontomakingtheirhomecomfortable. Hewasaverybusyman,animportant, influentialman,andhecouldntbeexpectedtocareabout

suchthings.Sheknewthat,inmanyways,heconsideredher dispensable. Butshelovedhimanyway. Shelovedtheprestigeheprovided,thesocialcircle,the authority. Hemightnotbethemostcharmingmanaround,buthewas anexcellentproviderandarespectablehusbandthatsociety admiredandthatsomeeven revered. Herparentshadraisedherwithadvantages,butthey werentpowerfullikeBishop.Marriagetohimensuredthat shekeptaprestigiousedgeoverothers. Shehappilybaskedinthecoldshadowofhissuccess. WhatBishopcouldntorwouldntgiveher,shewas resourcefulenoughtogetonherown. AsKathilookedaroundatthebeautifulartworkonthewalls andthefreshflowersinmultiplevases,shenoddedin satisfaction.Meticulousdetailing ensuredthatnothingwouldevermarherperfectexistence. Mentallylistingherdutiesforthecomingevening,Kathi consideredtheyogaclassinanhour,thenlunchwithfriends beforeshedvisitthesalonin preparationforadinnerpartywithherhusbandsbusiness contacts. Everythingrevolvedaroundthosecontacts.Overtheyears, Bishopsbusinessinvestmentsgrewmorediversified,and evenextendedintopolitical backing.Shedidntunderstandallofhisdealings,butshe knewthatheownedachainofgunstoresandseveral recreationalproperties.Businessdidnt

interesther;shereceivedageneroushouseholdallowance andpersonalaccount,andshouldanythingeverhappento Bishop,shewasamajor beneficiaryofhiswill.Thehouse,theproperties,would remainhers. Shewassatisfied. Asshestrodealongthemarblefloors,Kathisheelsclicked rhythmicallyinasoothingcadenceuntilshesteppedintothe masterbedroominsearchofher purse.ThatswhenshespottedBishopoutontheveranda. Despitethecooldayandbriskwind,heworenojacket.With hiscellphonetohisearandtensioninhisshoulders,he leanedontheornateironrailingand staredoutatthegrounds. Hespokeinatoneharshwithanger,andKathicouldnthelp butoverhearhim. Apparentlyshewasmissing,andIdidntknowit.He paused,thenadded,Well,ofcourseitsaproblem,because thatcrudeNeanderthalfeltfreeto accostmeatagoddamnedclub! Kathicouldntbelieveherears.Someonehaddaredto confrontBishop?Outintheopen?Hedidntappearhurt,but allshecouldseewashisback. Concerned,shestartedtogotohim,buthesitatedwhenhe blastedthecallerwithrage. HowcouldItellhimanythingthatIdidntknow?Bishop ranahandthroughhishair.No,youcantaskaround.I alreadytoldyou,hethreatenedmeifI saidawordtoanyone.Ifyougoblabbing,thenhelldamn wellknowIwastalking,right?

Stiffening,Kathywonderedwhowoulddaretodosucha thing.ShedidntunderstandthecomplexityofBishops reach,butsheknewherhusbandwasa powerfulmanwithmanyimportantfriends. Andyetsomeonehadthegalltoencroachontheirperfect existence?Unacceptable. Bishoplosthiscontrolandshoutedloudenoughforthestaff tohear.HowthefuckshouldIknow? Appalled,Kathisteppedouttotheveranda,too,admonishing him.Bishop,rememberyourself. Thelookhesentherwouldhavemademostpeoplequail. ButKathicaredmoreaboutappearancesthanhistemper. Shehadntworkedthishardtohave hisbadhumorfracturetheirsterlingreputation. Comeinsidetotalk,sheurgedhim.Illgiveyouthe privacyyouneed.Shetookhisarm,buthejerkedfreeofher holdandturnedhisbackonher. Toherrelief,hedidlowerhistonewhenhespokeagainto hiscaller.Imtellingyou,thisgoonknewalotofmy personalbusiness,soImnottakingany chances.Heclaimstohaveallkindsofreach,andgivenwhat healreadyknows,Ibelievehim.AllIwantyoutodoisfind outdiscreetlywhoheisand howheknowsme.No,Idonthaveanysuggestionsonhow youdoit.ThatswhatIpayyoufor! Kathiwatchedasherhusbandalmostthrewthephone.She didntflinch,andintheend,hedrewacalmingbreath, closedthecellandjammeditbackinto hispocket. Inside,shewasshaking,butoutwardlyshetriedtogivehim

whatsheknewheneeded.Iapologizeforblunderinginon yourprivatecall. Hiseyesburnedwithdisdain.Theresneverany goddamnedprivacyaroundhere. Kathisteadiedherselfwithadeepbreath.Wevediscussed this,Bishop.Yourlibraryisofflimitstoeveryoneexcept duringthemorningcleaning. Ithinkitsbugged. Bugged?Sheputahandtoherchestinshock.Areyou serious? Eyesnarrowedandred,hepacedpasther,thenbackagain. Idontknow.ButIfeelexposedinthere. Shecouldntcreditsuchathing,butshewouldnottake chances.ShallIhaveitexamined? Histeethsawedtogether,andheglaredather.Doyouhave ananswerforeveryfuckingthing?Damnit,dontyouever getrattled? Well,ofcourse.Shetouchedhisarm,and,despitehis coldnesstowardher,shefeltthefine,masculinehairthere, thewarmthofhisskin.Hewasa handsome,powerfulman,andsheprotectedwhatwashers. ButIwanttobehereforyoualways.Itsmyroletodo whateverIcantohelpyou Christ,woman,heshoutedather,jerkingfreeofhertouch yetagain.Youfuckingsmotherme. Shestartedtoapologizeagain,butheldbackatthelookhe leveledonher.Whoismissing? Henarrowedhiseyesandalmostasanaccusationsaid, Mollywastaken. Kathibackedupastep.Taken?Whatdoyoumean?

Yourunthehouse,hetoldher.Youtellme. Bewildered,sheshookherhead.Yourdaughterdoesntlive here.Shesnotundermyjurisdiction,soIhavenoidea Thatwassarcasm,damnit. Isee.Histemperwasripetoday,scorchingher. Notbotheringtohidehisdisgust,hepushedpasther.But onewouldthinkyoucouldkeepupwithyourstepdaughters attheveryleast.Ifyouhad,then maybeIwouldnthavebeentakenoffguard. Andwiththat,Bishopstormedthroughthebedroomand, Kathiknew,outofthehouse. HehadntsaidifMollywasokayornot,leavingherto wonder. Shetookamomenttocomposeherself,butnomorethana moment.Regardlessofthisunfortunateturn,shehadduties forthedayandshewouldnever allowherownemotionstokeepherfromthose responsibilities.Toomanypeopledependedonher.She wouldattendheryogaclassasscheduled. Butfirstfirstshehadaphonecalltomake.Andunlikeher husband,sheneverdidsowithouttheprivacyneeded. CHAPTERFOURTEEN ASMOLLYHURRIEDUPthestairs,herthoughtschurning overwhatDarehadsaidandhispromiseforthenight,a fantasticchangeinherplotoccurred toher.Thatshowherwritingwentshegotinspiration fromeverywhere,andDarecertainlyinspiredhermusein remarkableways.Sofar,therewas moresexinthisbookthaninanyofherothers.

Herdadwouldabhorthat,butshedbetKathiwould appreciatethenewscenes.Mostofherreadersseemedto enjoyalittlesteamnowandthen. SincemeetingDare,shecouldunderstandwhy. Closingthedoortothestairs,Mollyleanedbackandgrinned. Isthatalookofsatisfaction? Shejumpedattheintrusion.Somehowshedforgottenall aboutChris.What?No.Imean Helaughedather. Youreterrible,sheaccusedwithoutanyrealinsult. Actually,Ijustworkedoutaplotproblem,thatsall. Mmm.Isthatwhattheyrecallingitthesedays? Sheopenedhermouth,butcouldthinkofnothingwittyto say.Wheresmystuff? Iputthebagsintheroomyoureusingupstairs.Hissmile neverwavered.So,wheresDare? Takingashower.Hesaidhedbeupintwentyminutes. Thatdidntleavehermuchtime.Shewantedtogetthe wordsdownbeforeDarefinished.I, umSheedgedaway.Ineedtogowrite. Haveatit.Chrissalutedherandwentbacktounloading somegroceries. Fortyminutesandsixpageslater,Mollysavedherfileand returnedtothekitchen.Chriswasatthecomputer,but lookeduptosmileatherasshe entered.Youdone? Shenodded.Fornow. Darestoodatthestove,crackingeggsintoabowl.They sharedalook.Chrissaidyouwerewriting. Mymusetakessomewildjumps,andgoodplottwistsjust

occurtome.Iliketogetitonpaperwhiletheideaisfreshin mymind. Chrissatbackinhischair.AmIoldenoughtohearthe details? Sorry,no.Hewasteasingagain,butMollyansweredwitha writersseriousness.Inever,evertalkaboutmystories whileImwritingthem.Itdilutesmy creativeenergy. Wecanthavethat.Chrislacedhisfingersbehindhisneck andstretched.So,howlongwillitbebeforeIcanbuya copy? Ayear,atleast.ItamazedMollyhowcomfortableshefelt withthembothalready.Shetookaseatatthebar.AfterI turnitin,whichwontbeforawhile yet,ithastogothroughproduction.Butwhenitsdone,Ill giveyouanautographedcopyifyouwant. Really?Chrisdroppedhisarmsandleanedforward.If youreserious,thatdbegreat. Ioweyouanyway,fordrivingintotownformetoday. Darepouredhiseggmixtureontoahotgriddle.Yougoing tosignonetome,too? WhyDaresquestionmadeherblush,Mollycouldntsay.She lookeddownatherhands.Ifyouwant,Idbehappyto.The thoughtofDarereadingher bothpleasedandworriedher.Hisopinionmattered,alot. Molly? Whenshelookedupathim,hesaid,Imgoingtopickup yourotherbooks,too. Youdontneedtodothat. Heflashedheranintimatesmile.Youvegotmecurious.

AwareofChriswatchingthem,Mollyclearedherthroat. WhatImeantisthatIhavemyownstashofauthorcopies, soyoudontneedtobuythem.WhenI getbacktomyapartment,Icanpackagesomeupandmail themtoyou. Daresentheralook.Illhavebrunchreadyinafew minutes. Allshedhadwasthecoldcerealearlier,andthecrepes smelleddelicious.Thanks. ThenDaresaid,Wereheadinguptoyourapartmenttoday, butnoneedtomailthebooksback.Wereonlygoingfora shortstay. Ashortstay.MollystaredatDareindisbelief.Shehad assumedtheydgoupandback.Sheneededtoseehersister andcheckhermessages,butshe didntwanttostaythere,whereshedbeengrabbedoffthe street,knowingthatwhoeverhadarrangedforhertobe takenwasstillouttheresomewhere, maybejustwaitingforanotherchanceather. Icanwait,Chrissaid.HeaskedDare,Doyouwantmeto forwardyourcallsandemailstoyou? Justtheimportantones.Everythingelsewillwait.Tracewill knowtocallthecell. Ataloss,Mollyroseoutofherchair.Shefeltlikerunning away. Dareglancedather,thensaidsoftly,Imetyourfather yesterday. Herbreathstrangledinherchest.Youdidwhat? ItrackedhimdownataclubinKentucky.Hewasthereto playgolfwithsomebusinessassociates.

Shecouldntbelievethis.WhathadherfathersaidtoDare? Oh,God,shecouldonlyimagine,andshameburnedher. Foldinghisarmsoverhischest,Dareleanedagainstthe counterandstaredather.Whenwegettoyourplace tonight,youllcallhimandsetupadinner withtherestofthefamilyforassoonaspossible.Ineedto meetallofthem. Mollyshookherhead,blindsidedanddumbfoundedbyhis audacity. Concerned,Christurnedhischairtofaceher.Molly? Sheignoredhim,givingallherattentiontoDare.Idont believeyou.Hervoicewasraspyandfaint,andthat irritatedherevenmore.Shespokeup, addingstrengthtoherwords.Dontyouthinkyoushould consultwithmeaboutthesemajordecisions? Hisbrowwentup. Hurtclenchedherheart,andshemovedtowardhimwith anger.EspeciallywhenImtheonepayingforthis! Itwasofftheclock,Daretoldher,andhewatchedherso closelythatshefeltexposed. No,absolutelynot.Shepointedathim.Impayingyoufor everything.Weagreed. Hesaidnothing. Hissilencedrewaharshcontrasttoherraisedvoice,making herfeelfoolish.Damnit,Dare,youcantjustspringthese thingsonme! Heremainedcalm.Doyouobjecttoseeingyourfamily? WellShewantedtoseehersister,andsheknewthat soonerorlatershedhavetoseeherdadandKathiagain. No.

HeslantedalookatChrisandsaidagain,Wellbestayingat herplaceforafewdays. Ooookay,Chrissaid,emphasizingthetensionintheroom. DoIneedtopackyoursuit? No,butsomethingnicerthanjeans,okay? Gotit. Mollystillstoodthere,soDaregaveChrisatellinglook,and hesaid,Yeah,IlljustYeah.Hedesertedthecomputer andlefttheroom. DarewatchedMollyasecondmore,thencarriedaplateover toher.Hesetitonthebarandturnedtofaceher.You okay? Im Fine.Hesighedinclearfrustration.WhydidIbother asking? Iamfine.Butshefeltcompelledtoadmit,Itsasubjective term,Dare.Comparedtoafewdaysago,Imbetterthan fine. Gotit.Hepulledherintohisarms,anddespiteher annoyanceathim,itfeltsogoodthatMollywantedtostay there,justlikethat. Butofcourseifshedid,shewouldntbeabletowrite,or reassurehersister,ordirectheragentonnegotiations. Lifecontinued,andshewantedtomovealongwithit,not hideforever. WithDaresscentfillingherheadandhiswarmembrace aroundher,shewhispered,YouwanttoknowhowIreally feel?Shedidntwaitforhimto answer.Imachyallover,especiallyinmyshouldersand neck,butitsnottoobad,considering.MostlyImuncertain,

andImstillscared.Imanxiousto getmylifebacktonormal,butthenIthinkaboutwhatwas normalandhownaveIwas,andIdontknowifIreallywant thatornot. Hisfingersthreadedintoherhair,kneadingherskull, caressingher.Iwontletanythinghappentoyou. Mollycouldtellthathemeantit,butwhatifitproved impossibletofindtheoneresponsible?Shecouldntexpect Daretoputhislifeonholdforher. Hewasthemostcapablemansheknew,morecapablethan shecouldeverhaveimagined,buthewasntinvincible.What ifhegothurttryingtoprotect her? Shepushedbackfromhimalittle.MaybeIshouldjustgoto thepolice. Agentletugonherhairturnedherfaceuptohis.Youknow thatsnottheanswer. Didshe?True,thepolicewouldneverhavelookedforherin Tijuana.Butifshetookextraprecautionsnowtoensureno oneelsecouldgettoher,then maybetheycould Darebentdownandkissedher.Itwasahardkiss,surprising Molly.Shestartedtopullaway,butheliftedherrightoffher feetandcontinuedtotakeher mouthuntilshesoftened,untilshewarmedand reciprocated. Positioninghertositattheedgeofthebar,hestepped betweenherlegs.Withhishandsbracedateithersideofher hips,heleaneddowntoher.You willnotgotothepolice.

Helookedharshandpossessive.Andalittleturnedon.It excitedher. Mydad Wasatotalprick.Youknowhim,soyoucanimaginehowhe reactedwithoutmelayingoutthedetailsforyou.Butifyou wantthem,Illshareeveryword onourdriveintoOhio.Fornow,though,Iwantyour agreementthatyouwontveerofftheplan. Mollyputherhandtohisjaw.Somanyawfulpossibilities cametoher,allofthemcenteringaroundDaressafety.I dontwantyoutogethurtbecauseof me. Christ,woman. YourenotSuperman,Dare,andyourenotapsychic.Evenif youcoulddodgebullets,youcantknowaboutconspiracies orambushes Fromyourfather,youmean? Hesoundedscornful,discountingthedanger.Orfrom whoeverisafterme.Thenumberofthreatsoutthereleft hershaken. Youneedtohavealittlefaith.Scoopingonebighand againstherbackside,hedraggedherforward,hardagainst him.DoexactlyasIsayandwell bothbeokay.Understand? Herlegswerearoundhim,leavingherflushagainsthishard abdomen.Hishandonherbottomkeptflexing,feelingher, keepingherclose. Mollynodded.Okay. Hisexpressionheated.Slowly,hebenttokissheragain, softerthistime.Againsthercheek,hebreathed,Soonas

weredoneeating,wellhittheroad. Okay.Shetippedherheadback. Heputagentlelovebitetoherthroat.Andtonight Mollysheartpounded.Tonight? Hetouchedhistonguetoherear,andwhispered,Imgoing tobeinsideyou,andIcantfuckingwait. Inthenextinstant,heliftedheroffthecounterandontoa stool.Beforeshecouldcatchherbreath,Chrispeeredback in.HelookedfromDaretoMolly, andseeingthemseparated,walkedonin. Gladyoutwoworkedthatout,becauseImhungryagain. Throughahaze,MollywatchedDare.Heactedlikenothing hadhappened,likehehadntjustmadethatprovocative promisetoher.Hepouredaglassof milkandsetitbeforeher,thensatdowntoeatwhileheand Christalked. Inmorewaysthanone,shewasoutofherleague. Shepickedupherforkwithashakinghand,andasshe dippedhercrepeinthedollopofwhippedcream,sheletout apentupbreath. Darehadmanagedtobalanceherapprehensionaboutgoing homewithanurgencytogetthere.Evenknowingthathe couldntfeelthesameasshedid, shewantedtocherisheverysecondwithhim. Shebelievedthathedprotectherfromthreats.Itwasupto Mollytoprotectherheart. ATCLOSETOSIXTHATevening,Darepulleddownthestreet toMollysapartmentbuilding.

Hecouldfeelhernervousnessgrowing,buttherewasno helpforit.Onthedrive,hedtoldheraboutmeetingher father,leavingoutsomeofwhatBishop hadsaid.Notthatitmattered.Mollyknewherfather,and,as Darehadsuspected,shefilledintheblanksonherown. Becauseshedidntsocializeinherfatherscircles,shehadnt metmanyofhisbusinesscronies.Sheknewnothingof WarwickorSagan.Daretoldher abouttheconnectionsbecausesheneededtoknow.Ifit turnedoutthatherfatherwasresponsibleinsomeway, betterthatshehadthefactsearlyon. Ijustthoughtofsomething.Mollykeptonehandclamped ontheseat,theotheronthedashasshestaredoutthe windshield,lookingeverywhereasif sheexpectedthesamegoonstoshowupandmakeanother playforher. Relax,Molly.Itsgoingtobeokay. Iknow.Sheremainedalert.Buthowarewegoingtoget in?Idonthaveanykeyswithme.Ileftmypurseinthe apartmentandWithagroan,she turnedherwideeyedgazeonDare.Ididntevenhavemy doorlocked,becauseIthoughtIdbegoingrightbackin.I didntrememberthatuntilnow. Thenitsprobablystillunlocked.Eitherway,Darewasnt concernedaboutit.Hecouldpickalockinnotimeatall,and would,ifitprovednecessary. Stopworrying. Youkeepsayingthat.Shereturnedherattentiontothe area. Throughmirrored,aviatorsunglasses,Dareglancedather

andsawherunease.Hereachedoverandputahandonher slimthigh.Trytrustingmealittle, willyou? Thishasnothingtodowithtrust. Ithadeverythingtodowithtrust,buthecouldfeelher trembling,soheletthatgofornow.Wheredoyouwantme topark? Sheswallowed.Acrossthestreet.Ifnoonestoleit,mycar shouldstillbeoverthere. ItdidntsurprisehimthatMollyhadthoughtahead.If someonewantedherabsencetolookuneventful,takingher carwouldhaveshoredupthatruse. Folkswouldassumeshedleftforatrip. Dareturnedwheresheindicatedintoasmallparkinglot.As Mollyhadclaimed,therewerefloodlightsmountedonpoles tokeepthearealitatnight.Hed alsonotedsomeolderpeoplesittingontheirporches,to takeadvantageofthewarmerday.Theareawasamixof stately,singlefamilyhomesand homesconvertedintoapartments. Typicalofolderstructures,thebuildingshadalotof characterandstructuraldetails.Theareawascleanandwell maintainedand,asshedsaid,quiet. Hardtobelievethatnoonehadnoticedherbeingsnatched. Withrelief,shesaid,Thereitis.Shepointedtoasporty littleMazdaMiataincherryred. Huh.Sohercaptorswerentconcernedwithappearances. Cutecar. Cute?Pretendingoffense,sheglaredathim.Thatwasmy gifttomyselffrommylastcontract.

Personalreward,huh?Gladtoseeherlessfocusedonthe danger,Daresaid,Ilikeit.Itwasalittlesmallforhimtofit comfortablyinto,buthecouldsee Mollybehindthewheel.Itsuitsyou. Afterparkingnexttohercar,hestoredthesunglassesabove thevisorandturnedtoher.Hehadntknownherlong,but alreadyhecouldpickuponher moods.Hewishedhecouldsomehowmakethiseasierfor her. Andmaybehecould.Lookingathermouth,atthewayshe worriedherbottomlip,hereachedforher.Comehere. Surpriseovertooktheworryashetuggedhertowardhim. Dare? Holdingherfaceinhishands,hetookhermouthinakiss thatstartedslowbutquicklyturnedintoadeep,soft distraction. Whensherelaxedagainsthim,heeasedherbackintoher seat.Soothingherbottomlipwithhisthumb,hewhispered, Ready? Thosebeautiful,darkeyesofhersrefocusedandslowlyfilled withaccusation.Youdidthatonpurpose. Yeah.Hebentforwardandkissedheragain,lightand quick.Justremindingyouthatyourenotalone.Imhere, andtheresnowayinhellIdletanyone hurtyou. Youaresococky.Shesmiledwhenshesaidit,makingit soundlikeacomplimentinsteadofaninsult.IguessImas readyasIlleverbe.Sheturned andopenedherdoor. Asshewalkedaroundthehoodtowardhim,Daretooka

minutetolookoverhercar.Mollythoughthewasadmiring it,butreallyhewantedtomakesure thatithadntbeentamperedwith.Hedhavesomeonegiveit amorethoroughgoingoverbeforeshedroveitagain,but fornow,itseemedfine. Constantlyscanningthearea,Dareretrievedhisduffelbag andasmallsuitcaseforMollysclothes.Hishandatherback, theystartedacrossthestreetto thebuildingwhereshelived.Hernextdoorneighbors, sittingontheirporches,madeobviousnoteofthebagsand Darespresence. Ithoughtyousaidnoonepaidanyattentionaroundhere. Alldaylong,youdontseeasoul,especiallyinthecolder months.ButIguessitwaswarmenoughtodaytoentice somefolksout. Henoddedtoanoldercouplewhostaredathim,butsaidin anasidetoMolly,Itakeityoudontbringmanyguys around? Mollyrefusedtolookupatanyone.JustAdrian,butnot evenhimforawhile. Shewentinthroughtheunlockedfrontdoorthatletthem intoafoyerofsorts.Beyondthemweretwodoorsoneither sideofthebuilding,presumablyfor apartments.Ontherightwallwerefourmailboxes. Mollywenttothestairsattheleft.Imupstairs. Darekeptheraheadofhim,butonlybyafewsteps. Somethingdidntfeelrighttohim.Hedalwaysbeena gutinstincttype,andrightnow,hisinstincts werekickinghard. Thereweretwomoreunitsatthetopofthestairs,onetothe

leftandonetotheright. WhenMollyheadedtothedoorontheright,Darestopped her.Letmegoinfirst. Catchingontohisconcern,Mollyfroze.Youthink somethingiswrong? Idontknow.Hekepthistonelowasheopeneda compartmentinhisduffelandwithdrewhisGlock. Staringattheweapon,Mollypressedbacktothewall.What areyoudoing? Keepinghisgazeonthedoor,Daresetthebagsbesideher. Waitrighthere.Dontmove.Ifyouseeanyone,calloutto me.Otherwise,bequiet.He steppedaway. Herhandsnaggedhisarminadesperatehold.Dare? Sparingheraquickglance,heasked,What? Yourescaringme. Notnow,Molly.Thiswasntthetimetosootheher,orto explain.Atthedoor,helistenedbutdidnthearanything. Theknobturnedandtheunlockeddoor openedwithanominoussqueaktypicaltooldhomes.Even withtheroominshadows,Darecouldseetheevidenceofa search. Shit. What?sheaskedinaharshwhisper.Whatisit? Daresparedherawarningglancethatsilencedheragain, andthenheslippedintotheapartment.Someonehad trashedherplace. Daretookitallinwithafastglance:furnitureoverturned, drawersransacked,papersscattered.Bookseverywhere. Damn,butthewomanhadalotof

books. Shewasnotgoingtobehappy. Trustinghertostaywherehedlefther,Dareventured fartherinside.Whoeverhadsearchedherplacehadleftthe kitchenlightson,butthedrapesclosed. Withoutmakingasound,Darewentthrougheachroom.He foundmostofthemintotaldisarray,butemptyofintruders. Steppingovertoppledfurniture, clothes,booksandgarbage,DarewentbackforMolly. Hefoundherstandingintheopendoorway,herfacepinched andhereyesburningwithanger. Damnit.Whilestowingthegunatthesmallofhisback, Darestrodeovertoher.Itoldyoutostayput. Herslimshoulderswereweigheddownbytheirheavybags, withonehangingfromeachhand.Mollydidntseemto noticeasshestaredaroundather destroyedlivingroom.Whowoulddothis? Neitherofusknows,andthatswhyyoudamnwellshould havewaitedlikeyouweretold.Hetookthebagsfromher andsettheminside,thencaughther armandpulledherin,too.Heclosedandlockedthedoor, caughthershouldersandpinnedhertothewall. Shestaredupathimwithoutfear,herdarkeyeshugeand, damnit,wounded. Buthecouldntletherslideonthis.Hersafetydependedon herfollowinghiseveryordertotheletter. Daregrippedhershoulders.Hereshowthisisgoingto work.Shefeltsosmallanddelicateinhisholdthathehad tostrugglenottohugherclose. Fromnowon,youregoingtodoexactlywhatItellyouto

do,howItellyoutodoit.Doyouunderstandme? Shelookedbeyondhimtothelivingroom.Daregentlyshook her.Thisisimportant,Molly. Iknow.Shesoundednumb.IguessIshouldhaveexpected this.Buttheideaofsomeonegoingthroughmypersonal things Fornow,Daregaveup.Later,hedagaingooverthe importanceofherfollowinghisinstructions.Itsmostlyjust dumped,notbroken.Herightedthe chairclosesttothemandreplacedthecushion.Wecan straightenitup. Hertongueslickedoutoverdrylips.Ididntknowyoud broughtthegun. Damn,buthewantedher.Whenhehadherclimaxingunder him,shewouldntworryaboutherrummagedapartmentor hisweapon.Idontgoanywhere withoutit. Ishouldhaverememberedthat.Hergazewenttohis hands,thenbacktohisface.Ifyoudfoundsomeoneinhere, wouldyouhaveshothim? Whatdoyouthink? Afterasecondofthought,shesaid,Onlyifyouhadto.She shuddered.ButImgladyouhadit,justincase. Shewasglad?Sowhy,then,didshelooksorattled? Mollypickedupafloralthrowpillowfromthefloor.As muchasIhatetoaskthis,shouldwecallthepolice? Hehadntyetdecided.Whydontyoulookaroundandseeif anythingismissing? Asshedidthat,sheremovedhercorduroyjacketandthe colorfulscarfanddroppedthemoverthebackofthecouch,

whichwastheonlypieceoffurniture thathadntbeenturnedortakenapart. Armscrossed,shestudiedtheroomandsuddenlyhereyes widened.Mymanuscript. Forgoingconcernforhershelves,brokenpicturesanda dumpedplant,Mollylaunchedoverandaroundthemessto raceintoherbedroom. Darefollowedrightbehindher. Atalargedesk,shedrewupshortandgroaned. Thekeyboardhungoffthefrontofthedesk,stillconnected bythecord.Paperswerestrewneverywhere,andscattered clotheshalfcoveredthearea. Butthelargeflatscreenmonitorappearedunbrokenandall thecordsseemedintact. Shepickedupsomepapers,saying,Mycontractsareall mixedupnow.Shesetthepapersasideandturnedfull circletoseetheroom. Daredidhisownscrutiny,butfordifferentreasons.Now thatheknewtherewerentanyintrudersstilllurkingabout, herealizedthatMollysregular wardrobeincludedalotofprovocativestuff.Pantiesinevery colorweremixedwithcamisolesandlacybras.Drapedover theopenclosetdoorwasa skimpyreddress,andatthefootofthebed,asilkypurple blouselaybunchedupwithskinnyjeans. Huh.Somehow,hehadntpicturedherlikethis.Hedfigured hermoreforaTshirtandsneakerskindofwoman.Basic. Unadorned.Earthy. Andshecouldbe. Buthelikedthenewimageinhisheadalot.

Inhisquicksurveillanceoftheplace,hehadntfailedto noticetheclawfootedtubinherbathroom,orthe blackandwhitetile,brightenedwithredtowels anddishesofpotpourri. TherewasadecidedlysensualsidetoMs.MollyAlexander. Yousurpriseme. What?Shefollowedhisgazetoafloraldemibra.Witha gasp,shesnatcheditupandhiditbehindherback.You thoughtIdidallmyshoppingat discountdepartmentstores? Hesortofhad.Youreadaptable. Herchincameup.Yeah,so? Itamusedhimthatshesoundedsodefensive.Itsan admirablequality,Molly,thatsall.Sortofsexy,even. Yeah,right.Huffing,shethrewthebratowardthebedand wenttoherkneesinfrontofthedesk.Notlikeanyonesees meinanyofthatstuffanyway. Hewould.Soon. Hewatchedasshemovedalotofstuffoutofherwayto searchbeneaththedesk. Whatareyoulookingfor? Myflashdrive.Itwasinthecomputer,becauseIwas workingonthebookwhenIShewentstill,shookher head.IwaswritingbeforeItookabreak andwentoutside.Itshouldbehere.Iwasgoingtomeshthe papersIdwrittenatyourplaceintothepagesIalready have. Wouldsomeonehavereasontostealherwork?Daretooka bundleofclothesfromherandputthemonthechair.Did youkeepabackup?

Theflashdriveismybackup.Shepushedasideabox,anda brokendryeraseboard. DarecursedlowandMollysaid,Foundit! Amazed,hewatchedassheliftedtheflashdrivefroma narrowspaceonthefloorbetweenherchairandthedesk. Sheclosedherfistarounditandlet outalongbreath. Sortingouthisthoughts,Dareturnedtoscrutinizetherestof herbedroom.InvolvingthepolicewillhinderwhatIcan findout. Nowthatshedfoundherwork,sheseemedcalmer.Why? BecauseIdbetheirfirstsuspect. CHAPTERFIFTEEN MOLLYSTAREDATHIM,aghast.Whatareyoutalking about?Whywouldanyonesuspectyou? Imtheleastknownpersoninthisequation.Anditllonly makethepolicesuspiciousiftheystartdiggingintomy history,becausetheywontfindmuch. Theywont? Ivemadeapointtoalwayscovermytracks.Thelastthing heneededwasapublicprofile.Itgoeswiththesecurityof thejob.Butcopsdontlikethat. Theyseeanyconcealmentasaguiltyverdict. Mollyacceptedthatwithoutquestion,buttheauthorities wouldnt.Andhedidntwantthemsidetrackedinvestigating him,insteadofgettingtothereal instigators. Dareputhishandsonhishipsandlookedatherfullsize bed.Thebeddingwasdisplaced,herclothesdumped,but

otherwisetheroomseemedokay. Anotherproblemisthatthepolicehaveanuncannyknack forforewarningeveryrealsuspect.Itsthewaythey investigate. Mollypushedupfromthefloor.Whatdoyoumean?She stowedthememorydeviceinherpocketandbeganpicking upclothes. Theyreupfrontabouteverything.Theyhaverulesto follow,legalprocedurestoadhereto.Someonemighthave gonethroughherthingsinaneffortto discoverherwhereabouts.HadBishopAlexanderput someoneuptothattask?Itseemedpossible.ButIdont. Ihadntthoughtofthat. Theeasiestwaytocatchpeopleistotakethemoffguard. Whoeverkidnappedyouisaprowithconnections.Ifthey wereinvolvedinthishelookedat adumpeddresserdrawertheywouldntleavebehind evidence. Sincemydoorwasntlocked,anyonecouldhavecomein. Dareconsideredthat.Wheredoyoukeepyourkeys? Inthekitchenonautilitycabinet.Ialwaysleavemypurse inthere,too.ShestartedthatwayandDarefollowed.The kitchenwasntinasbadshapeas thebedroom.Herpursehadbeendumpedonthetable,and twodrawerswereemptiedofpaperandpens. Mollylookedaroundbutdidntfindthekeysanywhere. Theyregone. Anyoneelsehavekeystoyourplace? Mysister,andthelandlord. Dareopenedafewcabinetsthatheldfoodanddishes,and

drawersfilledwithsilverware,potholdersanddishcloths. Theywereundisturbed. Thattoldhimalot.Whoeverwentthroughherewas lookingforsomethingspecific.Hewasntjusttrashingthe place. Frowning,Mollywentbackintothelivingroomandlooked around,andthenbackintoherbedroom.Darecouldtellshe wasstudyingthecarnage,tryingto makesenseofit. Shestaredatherdesk,rearrangedsomeofthedisplaced papers.Afteraminute,shesaid,Whoeverwasherewent throughmyprintednotes,andhe leftmycomputeron. Darefrowned.Putthedriveinthecomputerandseeifyour workisokay. IwasworkingonmybookbeforeIwentoutsideandgot grabbed.ThatsthelastfileIhadopenedup. Standingoverher,hewaitedasMollyorganizedherdesk, replacingthekeyboardandthemouse.Shehadntyetput theflashdrivebackinbeforethe movementbroughtthesleepingmonitorflickeringbackto life.RatherthanMollyscurrentmanuscriptshowing,her iCalpoppedup. Thatsmycalendar.Shestaredatthescreen.Itsoneofthe programsIusemostoften,butIhadntputanythingnewin thereforawhile. Youdidnthaveitopen? Sheshookherhead.NotforIdontknow,afewdaysat least. So,whoeverhadbrokeninhadbeensearchingher

appointments.Someonefoundit. Seemsso. Reachingaroundherforthemouse,Dareminimizedthe calendaronthescreen,andbehindittheyfoundan EviteanemailedinvitationthatMollyhad addedtohercalendar.Darestraightenedandputhishands onhershoulders. AsMollyreadthereminder,hershoulderstensed.Iwas supposedtoattendabooksigningyesterday.Shetwistedto seeDare.Idonthaveacurrent bookrelease,butthiswasaspecialoccasiontohonoralocal booksellerwhosretiring. Darehadnoideawhattosaytoher. Darehadnoideawhattosaytoher. Sheturnedbacktothescreen.ThankGodIwasnttheonly authorscheduledtobethere.ButIcantimaginewhat everyonethoughtwhenIjustdidnt showup. Icantimaginewhatyourintruderthought,becauseIm bettinghewasatthesigning,lookingforyou. Shestiffened.ThatswhythelastEvitewasstilluponthe screen. Herubbedhershoulders.Whoeverwasherewaslooking foracluetoyourwhereabouts,buthedidnthaveanything elsetogoon. God,shegroaned.Elbowproppedonthedesk,sheputher foreheadinherhand.Iveprobablymissedatonof promotionalstuff. Letsdontworryaboutthatrightnow,okay?Darenoticed thatMollysotherhand,restingonthedesktop,wasfisted,

givingawayherangeratbeing violatedyetagain.Sheunderstoodtheseriousnessofthis invasionandhowdeterminedsomeonewastofindher again. Buttruetohernature,shekeptittogether,reactingina calm,sensiblewaythathelpedratherthanhindered. Heurgedherfromthechair.Letme. Shevacatedtheseatwithoutargument.Whatareyougoing todo? Justtakeaquicklooktoseewhenourguywashere,and anyotherplaceshemightvegoneonthecomputer. Youcandothat? Ihavesometechsavvy,yeah.Actuallyhehadalotmore thantheaverageperson,buthedidntconsiderhimselfa pro.Traceistherealcomputerguy, butsinceyouhaveaMac,somethingsareprettyeasytofind. Hopefullyyouhaventchangedyoursettingstodeleteyour historyeachtimethecomputer isused. Ididnt.Iwouldntevenknowhowtodothat. HerlackofknowledgeamazedDare.Youworkonthis computer. Shrugging,shedismissedthatlittlefact.Iemail,surftheNet forresearchandwrite.Butbelieveme,noonewouldaccuse meofbeingacomputergeek. Eventually,Daredecided,hedgiveherabasiceducationon howhercomputerworkedandwhatitcoulddo.Rightnowit justdidntmatter.Ifweknow everythingthattheguylookedat,wellhaveabetteridea aboutwhathewanted.

Hewantedtoknowmyschedule. Yeah,butwhy?Thinkingaloud,Daresaid,Hecouldnt havethoughttosnatchyououtofabooksigning,right? Therewouldbeotherpeople,andthe bookstoremanager.Sowhatwashisplan? Wrappingherarmsaroundherself,sheshuddered.You reallythinkhewantedtokidnapmeagain? Rightnow,Idontknowwhattothink.Itcouldbethat Bishopwassearchingforhertogetahandleonthingsand keepherkidnappingoutofthenews. Butwhytrashherplace? Daresattentionwentfromhertoatinyscrapoflaceandsilk showingfromabundleofclothesonthefloornearthedesk. Hereachedforthepanties,but Mollybeathimtoit. Notfunny,Dare.Shetossedthemtowardherbed.Ihateit thatanyonetouchedmystuff.Ioughttojustburneverything andstartover. Hey.Darepulledherdowntohislap.Itsgoingtobeokay. Ipromise.Somehowhedmakeittrue. Ratherthandebatethat,Mollyputahandtohisjawand leanedforwardtokisshim.Shekeptitbrief,andstillhefelt burned.Ithelpssomuchthatyoure herewithme.Thankyou. Darebroughtherbackforahotter,deeperkiss.Itwasalittle moresatisfying,buthedidntletitgetoutofhand.Theres noplaceIdratherbe. Acrookedgrintippedhersoftlips.Yeah,itsalaugha minutearoundme. Molly,headmonished.Dontdothat.Dontminimizethe

situation.ImgladthatImwithyou.Hell,theresnowayI wouldntbe. Asifshedidntquitebelievehim,sheloweredhergaze.I knowyoumissTaiandSargie. True,buttheyadoreChris.Hetakesgoodcareofthem,and thatincludesplayingwiththemandcuddlingthem.Dare leaneddowntocatchhergaze. Untilrecently,IwasgonemorethanIwashome. Andnowyourscheduleisfinallyfreedup,andhereIam, draggingyouawayfromhomeagain. Itwastoosoonforhimtotellherhowshematteredtohim, toosoonforhimtoevenfeelthatway.Noonedragsme anywhere,Molly.Hetippedupher chin.ImherebecauseIwanttobe. Forseveralseconds,theystaredateachotheruntilMolly maskedherreactionofdisbeliefwithalongsigh. Gazingaroundatherbedroom,shesaid,Whileyousnoop,is itokayifIstartputtingsomeofthisstuffaway? Fornow,Daregaveuponconvincingherofhisfree participation.Intheend,whenherefusedpayment,shed knowthetruth.Idontseewhynot. Shelefthislap.ThesoonerIgeteverythingbacktonormal, thesooneritllfeellikehometomeagain. Damn,butheadmiredher.Notonlydidntshefallapart,she soughtwaystocope. AndthatkissThatMollyhadtakentheleadreallyturned himon.Butshewasrighttheyneededtogetherlifeback ontrack.Afterhegatheredallthe cluesavailabletohimandtheyputherapartmentbackto rights,hedhavetherestofthenightalonewithher.

Somehow,hedwaituntilthen. DAREMADEHIMSELFturnbacktothecomputer.While Mollycollectedthedumpedclothesintoahamperto launder,Daresearchedthroughher computer.Helookedatallactivityfromthedayofher abductionuntiltoday. Oddlyenough,thedayafterMollywastaken,someonehad accessedherwritingfiles.Itinfuriatedhimtoknowthat whileshedbeenheldinahovelin Tijuana,somebastardhadreadthroughherbook. Theredbeennoactivityonhercomputerafterthatuntil recently.Eyesburning,Darelookedatthedatesforwhen severalprogramshadbeenopened includinghercalendarandherinternet. Thedayaftershewastaken,andthenagainafterhed spokenwithBishop,someonehadgottenonhercomputer. Sittingbackinthechair,heconsideredthepossibilities.Why thelongwaitbetweenvisits?Andwhynow? Wouldthesamepersonvisittwice,searchingthrough differentprograms?Aprowouldknowhowriskyitwasto return,butthenaprowouldhavefound whathelookedforonthefirstvisit. Andifitwasntthesameperson?HadBishopignoredDares warningandsentsomeoneofhisowntoinvestigate,maybe tocheckonhisdaughters welfare? Ortocoverhistracks? Darewasmullingoverpossibilitieswhilealsolisteningto

Mollymoveabouttheapartment.Shedtidiedthebedroom, whichwasmostlydumpedclothes, andwasnowinthelivingroom.Thoughsheremainedinthe apartment,andnotthatfarfromhim,Daredidntlikeitthat hecouldntseeher.Untilthe peopleresponsibleforhurtingherwerefound,hewantedto keepaveryclosewatchonher. Hewasjustabouttochecktheinternetlinkswhenshe reappearedinthedoorway.Shedremovedhersweater,and herbootsandsocks.Barefoot, blouseuntuckedandthehemofherjeansdraggingthefloor, shestaredathim. OnelookatherfaceandDarewasoutofthechair.Whatis it? Shetookashudderingbreath.Anote.Shegestured behindherwithashakinghand.Leftformebythephone table. Grim,Dareputanarmaroundher.Showme. Shewalkedtoasmall,overturnedtableagainstthewallthat separatedherkitchenandlivingroom.ThisiswhereIkeep mylandline,wheremycellphone chargesandwhereIputmymail,mychange andeverything. Adozenletters,severalpackagesandboxesweredumped aroundthefloor.Youvegotaloadofstuffthere. Iwasgoneforawhile,remember? So,whobroughtthemailin? Herhandtoherforehead,expressionbleak,shepointeda stifffingeratalonepadofpaperrestingatoptheanswering machine.Whoeverleftthat,I

guess. Daresteppedoverthebrokenlandlinephonetothe answeringmachinethatlayonthefloor.Itwasunplugged, possiblybroken,too,buthedcheckonthat inaminute. Mollystuckclosetohim.Iusethelandlineforbusiness calls,likewithmyeditorandagent,orphoneinterviews, thatsortofthing.Familyalmostalways callsthecell.WhoeverleftthatnoteknewIdtrytocheckmy businessmessages,right?Thatswhyhespecificallyleftit there.Hedidntwantittogetlost intherestofthismess. Probably.Writteninlargeblockletterswithboldred markerwasamessagethatDarereadaloud:Stillfeelso forgiving? HerealizedthatMollyshookwithanger,notfear.Shed curledherhandstight,clenchedherjawandherdarkeyes wereburningbright. Itakeityouhaveanideawhatthatmeans? Gotagoodguess,yeah. Shelookedreadytocombust,soDaresaid,Letsseeifthe answeringmachinestillworks,okay? Nodding,Mollywenttoherkneesandreconnectedthecord tothemachineandthenpluggeditintothewall.Therewere somecallsfromhersister, inquiringafterher.Heragent,hereditor,lefturgentcalls requestingherattention.Thelocalbookstoresounded pleasantbutconfusedaboutherabsence. ThenanothercallfromNatalie.Shesaidthatshedgottenthe email,butshewantedspecifics.Whywontyoucallme,

damnit?Idontgetit.Thisisnuts. Ifyoureoffhavingfun,thatsfine.Imthrilledforyou.But youcantakeoneminutetotalk,socallme. Smotheringinguilt,Mollygroaned.Nataliemustbefrantic. Yeah,butwhatwasthataboutanemail? Idontknow. Comeon.Daretuggedhertoherfeetandtogetherthey wentbacktohercomputer.Hecheckedthehistoryand foundheronlineemailprogramhad beenaccessed.MindifItakealook? ItsnotlikeIhavealottohideatthispoint.Shegesturedat thecomputer.Haveatit. Darepulleduptheemailprogramandlookedforreceived emails,butsawnone.Thenhelookedatthesentemails,and again,nothing. Mollyfrowned.Checkthetrash. Iam.Heopenedthefolderfordiscardedmail.Bingo. Therewerethreemessagesfromhersister,oneofthem sayingshewasheadingoffforspring breakandwantedtotalktoMollyfirst. Springbreak?Dareasked. Shesateacher.Mollyleanedoverhisshoulderand frownedatthemonitor.Theresanemailfromme,butI wasntheretosendit. Dareopenedthedeletedpostandtogethertheyreadthe succinctmessage.Illbegoneforawhile.Offhavingsome funforachange.Illgetintouch whenIcan.Love,Molly. Veryslowly,shestraightened.ItwasonlysenttoNatalie, anditdoesntsoundatalllikeme.

Whichiswhyyoursisterwasworried. Sheletoutabreath.WhoeversentthatknewthatNatalie wastheonlypersonwhowouldnoticemyabsence.Imean, myagentandeditor,too,butthey wouldntpanicifmyfamilydidnt,andNataliestheonly familywhowould. Soitssomeonewhoknowsyou.Darehadfiguredthat muchallalong.Hestoodandpulledherintohisarms. Holdingherfeltrightanddespitethe circumstances,itstirredhim,becauseheknewtonightwas thenight. Beforehedidsomethingstupid,hesetherawayfromhim.I toldyouthiswouldntbeeasy. Shenodded.IneedtotalktoNatalie. Mollyscellphonehadbeeninherpurse,whichwasnow missing,andherlandlinelookedasifsomeonehadstepped onit. Darepulledhiscelloutofhispocket.Goaheadandcallher. Talkingtohersisterwouldgivehersomethingtothink aboutbesidesthemessandthe note. WhatshouldIsay? Heshrugged.Tellhersomethingcameupbutthatyoucant gointoitoverthephone.Askhertocomeover.Meetingher sisterinpersonwouldlethim controlthingsandaffordhimtheopportunitytogaugeher reactiontoMollystale.Notthathehadanyrealreasonto suspecthersister;shewastheonly onewhodnotedMollysabsence,asfarashecouldtell.But itwastoosoonforhimtoruleoutanyoneoranything.

Mollyputinthecall,butafterafewsecondsshecoveredthe phone.Noanswer. Dontleaveamessage.Thatlljustconfusethings.Dare tookthephonefromherandclosedit.Youcancallher againlater. RegrethadMollybitingherlips,butsheacceptedhis decision.Ifshesstillonspringbreak,shecouldbeaway fromherphone. Keepinghishandsoffherwasntanoption.Itseemedthe morehetouchedher,themoreheneededto.Hecravedthe feelofherskin,thescentofher hair,herwarmthandgentleness.Itdrewhimlikenothing everhad. Tryingtokeepitcasualwithanarmaroundherwaist,Dare ledherfromthebedroom.Buteventhataffectedhim.He couldfeelherresilientfleshbeneath thematerialofhertop,thenarrownessofherwaistandhow shefitsonicelyintohisside. Whatdowedonow?Mollyasked. Iwanttohearaboutthatnote,butyourepushingittoday. Thelongtripwasenough,butthentofindthismessYou needtoeatsomething,drink Dare,Imokay,shecomplainedwithashortlaugh.And Imnothungry. Hestoppedwithherinthekitchen.Smoothingbackherhair, hestudiedherface.Shelookedpale,stressedandbeautiful. Allright.Hecouldntkeep smotheringher.Shewastooindependentforthat.Imnot reallyhungry,either.Butwemightaswellsitdowntotalk. Shelookedaroundattheremainingmess.Istillhaveso

muchtodo. Wellgettoit.Heclearedachairandaspotonthetable, thenurgedhertosit.Takeafewbreaths,honey. Shedidadoubletakeattheendearment.Ireallyamokay, youknow. Ineverdoubtedit.Herinnerstrengthneverceasedto amazehim.Shetookoneblowafteranother,butalways rallied.Itwasthat,asmuchasanything, thatsetherapart.Justhumorme. Afterensuringthatthecarafewasntbroken,Darestarted thecoffeeprep.Hednoticedwhereshekeptthingsearlier whenhedcheckedthekitchen. WhileIgetthisready,whydontyouexplainthegistofthat note? Sheputherheadinherhands.Voicemuffled,shesaid,It hastodowithabook.Theonethatwassocriticized.She raisedherface.Youremember whatyoureadinthemostscathingcomments? Darethoughtforasecond.Ashemeasuredcoffeeintothe basket,herecalledthedominantcomplaint.Youredeemed acharacter,right? Mollynodded.Inthebeginning,hedidsomeprettyawful things,mostlyoutofmisguidedemotion.Hedhadarough life,andbecauseofthathisoutlook oncertainthingswasskewed. Whatkindofawfulthings? Hewasathief,aliar.Thosesortsofthings.Hestolecars, creditcards.Definitelycrossedtheline.Butwhilehewas capableofit,heneverreallyhurt anyonephysically.Laterinthebookherealizedhismistakes,

triedtoatoneandtheleadcharactersforgavehim. TheideaofforgivenessintriguedDaremaybebecausehe, himself,wasntaveryforgivingperson.Crosshim,andhe neverforgot,andhesureashell stoppedtrusting.Somereadersfeltduped. Shegaveoneshortnod.Iguesseveryonedoesntbuyinto secondchancesthewaythatIdo.Asifshehadagrowing headache,Mollyrubbedher temples.Iwouldntevenmaketheconnection,butone readerinparticularsentmeplentyofemailsdetailing different,sortofthreateningscenariosabout whatitwouldtaketopushmepastthepointofforgiveness. ShewouldalwaysendthesetupbyaskingifIdstillbe forgivingifthathappenedtome. Thehellyousay.Daretooktheseatbesideher.Youdidnt tellmeanyofthis. Shedismissedthatwithalook.Itwasbadenoughthatyou sawthosereviews.Andhonestly,untilnow,Ireallydidnt thinkthatmuchofit.Overtheyears, Ivegottenplentyofscathinglettersfromreaders.Itspart andparcelwiththejob. Givemeanexample. Keepingherattentiononthetabletop,shethoughtback.I oncehadthissecondarycharacterwhowasafather. Darecouldfeelhertensionwiththetopic,andhehated itbutheneededdetails. Afterthecharacterswifedied,heemotionallybailedonhis kids.Hewasntthereforthematall,didntseethemthrough thetoughtimesorencourage them.

Hadshedrawncomparisonswithherownfather?From whatshedtoldhim,hedsureashellneglectedhis daughters,especiallywhentheyneededhim most:aftertheirmotherhaddied. Mollyfoldedherhandstogether.Hesupportedthem financially,butthatwasit.Ididntpainthimasatotaljerk, butneitherwashisselfabsorbedpity writtenoffasacceptable. And? Amalereaderwassooutragedbymylackofunderstanding forwhatthecharacterhadgonethrough,hethreatenedmy life.Irritationgrowing,she added,Asifthereseveranyexcusefornottakingcareof yourkids. No,theresnot.Cautiousofhermood,Dareasked,Howd hethreatenyou? Hewrotemeabunchofletterstwentyormore.Allof themwereangry,somemoreinsanethantheothers,buthis overallthemewasthatIneededtobe shownwhatitwastofeelreallossbeforeIjudgedanyone elseontheirownreactions.Shemadearudesound.I didnttellhimthatIhadlostmymother, soIknewwhatitfeltliketolosealovedone. Good.ToDaresmind,itwouldneverbesmarttosharetoo muchofherprivatelifewithherreaders.Anythingcomeof histhreats? Shewaveditoff.Notreally.Isharedtheletterswiththe localpolice,andtheycontactedaforensicsteam.Therewas somecheckingdone.Otherthan tellingmethattheguywasbackonhismeds,theycouldnt

saymuchbecauseitwouldhaveinfringedonhisrights. Darescowled.Fuckeduplogic,ifyouaskme. Itdoesntmatter.Ineverheardfromhimafterthat. Restless,shetappedherfingertipsonthetabletop.Then therewastheguywhocametoeverylocal signing,andhedbuythesamebookoverandoveragain.I dontmeantwoorthreecopies,butlikedozensofthem.I thinkintheendhemustveowned fortyormorecopiesofonetitle.Itwasdownrightcreepy. Deadpan,Daresaid,Hemustvereallylikedthebook. Sherolledhereyes.Ifinallytoldhimthathehadtostop.It wassoawkward.Forbothofus. Icanimagine.Daretookherhand.Howdhereactto that? Hegotallflusteredandstuff.Ithinkhealmostcried.Buthe didntshowupatanymoresignings,andasfarasIknow, hesneverwrittenmesincethen. Asfarasyouknow? Alotofreaderssendanonymousletters.Theydontsigna nameorshareanaddress.Herlipsquirked.Especiallythe angryones. Yousaythisstuffhappensallthetime? Sheliftedashoulderinahalfheartedshrug.Ivegotten immunetoit.Imean,Ihateupsettingreaders,butitsjust partofthebusiness.Whatonereader lovesanotherhates.Herbreathreleasedinasigh.When thatonereaderkepttellingmethatnoonewouldbethat forgiving,Ijustignoredheratfirst. Her?Darecockedabrow.Doyouknowthatitwasa woman?

WellMollyfrowned.Notreally,no.Herlettershaveall beenunsignedandunaddressed,too.Itsjustthatmostof myreadersarewomen. Butnotall? Shemadeafaceathim.BothofthereadersIalreadytold youaboutwereguys. Soletsdontmakeanyassumptions,then.Thecoffee machinehissedtoafinish,andDaregotuptofindthemugs. Mollywenttoadifferentcabinettoretrievepowdered creamer.Idontevenwanttoopenmyrefrigerator.Im afraidwhatImightfindinthere. Struckbythat,Darelookedather,thenwenttothefridge. Iwaskidding. Mightaswellfindoutifwehaveanythinggrowing.He openedthedoor,butitwasntbadatall.Ithinkyour lunchmeatislonggone,andIwouldnttouch themilkorcreamer.Buteverythingelseshouldbeokay.He closedthedooragain.Youkeepaneatrefrigerator.No leftovers. ThankGod.Shedoctoredhercoffeeandwentbacktothe table.Sinceitsjustme,Idontcookmuch,whichmeans theresseldomanythingleftto store. Dareopenedafewcabinetsbutdidntfindanysnacks. Apologetic,Mollysaid,Idofferyouacookieorsomething, butIhavenoideawhatIhaveanymore. Dontworryaboutit.Wellorderindinnerandifnecessary shoptomorrow. Stirringhercoffeewithaspoon,Mollyavoidedeyecontact. Howlongwillwebehere?

Notsureyet.Andhewasntgoingtogettrappedintotrying todeciderightnow,either.Youknow,unlessyoucanthink ofsomeonethatyouvehada conflictwithlately,yourreasoningisasgoodasanythingI cancomeupwith. Aconflict? Dareshrugged.Maybesomeonewhoyoureangryat,who youwontforgive? Gazeslocking,thesamethoughtoccurringtothemboth,they saidinunison,Adrian. Whythehellhadnthethoughtofthatsooner?Wouldherex havebeendumbenoughtotrashherapartment?Couldhe haveknownthatMollywas missing? Couldhehavearrangedherabduction? Mollyscoffed.Noway.Imean,Icantbelieveit.NotAdrian. Heisntthetypeto Akeysoundedinthelockonthefrontdoor. Stunned,theybothstaredinthatdirection. Stumped,Mollyasked,Who? Quiet.Grabbingher,Daredraggedherdowntothefloor andbehindthekitchenwall,turningoffthelightsashewent. Mollyseyeswidenedwhenshenoticedthegunalreadyin hishand. Thiscantbehappening,shewhispered. Darepressedherbacktothewall.Stay.Put.Anddamnit, Molly,thistimeImeanit. CHAPTERSIXTEEN MOLLYSWALLOWEDHARDasDareslippedoutoftheroom.

Herheartthunderedandherflushedskinfelttootightasshe waitedforahorribleconflict. Thedooropened.Malechuckling.Therustleofpeople comingintotheapartment.Femalegigglingandsmooching. Herbrowsknittogether.Somethingaboutthatmasculine laughsoundedfamiliar. Darewouldbesoangryatherifshemoved,butshe couldntstopherself. ShepeekedaroundthecornerjustintimetoseeAdrian practicallyfallintotheapartmentwithaveryprettywoman. Theywereallovereachother. Inherapartment. Furious,Mollypusheduptoherfeetalmostatthesametime thatDaresteppedoutfrombehindthecouch,thegunaimed atthetwointruders. Oblivioustothedanger,Adrianshutthedooronehanded, thengroanedandgrabbedthewomansbehind.Shadows envelopedthemastheywrapped aroundeachother,fondling,kissing,movingagainstthewall togrindalittle,thenstumblingfreeagain. Amplifiedbyallshedenduredlately,rageboiledinside Molly,threateningtocombust.Butshestayedput. ShecouldseeDaresconfusioninhisstance.Hedidntlower thegun,buthedidfliponthelight. Inaninstant,thewomanscreechedandAdrianjerked around.Theybothwentwhite. Letmeguess,Daresaid.Adrian? Heridiotexfiancstammeredandslumpedbacktothewall, usingitforsupport.Thewomanclungtohim,horrified, uncertain.

Theybothlookedlit.Drunkorhigh.Maybeboth. Mollyclearedherthroat.Dare? Withoutlookingbackather,hesaid,Yeah? Itssafeenoughforme,right? Hedidntanswerrightaway.Justasecond. AdrianquailedinfearwhenDarestrodeovertohim.Dare heldouthishandandsaid,Keys. Adrianhandedthemoverwithshakingalacrity. Afterpocketingthem,DarefriskedAdrianbyroughly runninghishandsoverhisback,seat,legsandarms.Itwas unnecessary,Mollywassure,butshe didntstopDare. Findingnothing,Darepushedherexintoachair. Mollysteppedoutofthekitchen.Whatareyoudoinghere, Adrian? Finallyseeingher,Adrianshottohisfeet.Molly,thank God! Dareshovedhimbackinthechairsoharditalmost overturned.Sit. Alarmed,Adrianlookedtowardherforhelp,andseeingher calmandcollectedhelpedhimtocalmdown,too.Ashis panicreceded,hissurroundings sankin,andhenoticedthestateoftheapartment.Good God,Molly.Whatdidyoudo? Daresaidtohim,Justshutup.Heturnedtothewoman, givingheraonceover. Adrianslatestconquestworeverylittle,justascanty,very tightblackdressthatshowedayardofcleavageand milehighlegsinopentoedheels. Tumbledbleachblondhairandpaintedlipsgaveherthe

lookofastarletwannabe. Daremovedtowardher. AndMollysnapped,Dare! Hehesitatedbutdidnttakehisgazeoffthewoman.What? Heatcrawledupherneck.Talkaboutawkward. Butdamnit,shedidntcare.Mollyfilledherlungswith righteousumbrage.Idonotwantyourhandsonher. Aheavypausesettledovertheroom.Dareslantedafleeting lookherway.Because? BecauseIfheranhishandsoverthatoverblown, ondisplaybody,MollywouldWell,shedidntknowwhat sheddo.Herjawhurtfromalltheteeth clenchingsheddonelately.Iwouldntlikeit. Heglancedtowardher,andMollysawthefaintestsignof humorinhisexpression.Whatsheswearingissotight,I cantseehowshedbehidinga weaponanyway. Wellgood.God,shefeltridiculous. Dareheldoutahandtothewoman.Givemeyourpurse. Shehandeditover. Daresteppedawayfromthemboth.Well,Molly?He reachedoutahandtoher.Imjustdyingforan introduction. Yeah,shecouldimagine.Butitwassortofembarrassingfor Daretomeethercreepofanexunderthesecircumstances. JoiningDareinhisstancebeforetheintruders,Mollycrossed herarmsandtappedherfoot.Whatareyoudoinghere, Adrian? Heopenedhismouth,glancedattheblondeandsnappedit shutagain.

Veryblas,DareaskedMolly,Wantmetobeatitoutof him? Imthinkingaboutit,Mollysaid,andsheprayedDarewas justjoking. Adriancouldntmakethatassumption.Youhaventbeen here. ItdbehardformenottonoticewhereIhaveorhavent been,Adrian.Whatdoesthathavetodowithanything? Heshookhishead,keepingawatchfuleyeonDareasifhe expectedhimtoattackatanyminute. Daredidmakearatherimposingfigurewithhisheight,his muscleandthatnottoohappyexpressiononhisface.Notto mentionthegunstillinhishands. Forherpart,theblondestoodtherewithhermouthshut tight. Adrianlickedhislips.Yousortofdisappeared. Howdoyouknowshewasnthere?Dareasked. Hersisterhasbeendrivingeveryoneinsane,lookingfor her.AndthentoMolly,Butnooneknewwhereyouwere, andwhenyoudidntansweryourcalls, evenonyourcell,Ithoughtmaybeyouhadabandonedthe place. Andyouthoughtwhat?Mollycouldntfathomhisreason forbeinginherapartment.Thatyoudjustmovein? No,ofcoursenot.Ihavemyownplace.Helookedatthe blonde,satforwardandappealedtoMolly.Youknowhow privateIamwithmyplace. Private? Yeah,IdontHeglancedattheblondeagain,andnowshe lookedback,herbrowsstartingtobunchtogether.Iliketo

keepmypersonallifefreedup. Yourenotmakinganysense,Daretoldhim.Justspitit out,willyou? Showingsomebackbone,Adrianglaredathim.Itsnever goodpolicytotakeaonenightstandintoyourhome. Everyoneknowsthat. Theblondesaid,Onenightstand? Mollysbrainfrozeupatthatawfulthought.Youwere comingheretohavesex?Inmyapartment?Herstomach recoiledandsheyelled,Inmybed? Withashrug,Adriansaid,Yeah. Mollylaunchedherselfathim,butDarecaughtherwithan armaroundherwaist.Adrianscrambledoutofthechairand gotbehindit. Yousonofabitch! Darechuckled. ThatinfuriatedMollyenoughthatshebroughtherelbow backhardintoDaresribs.Hestoppedlaughingbutdidnt loosenhisholdonher.Settledown. Iwill,afterIkillhim. Trulyalarmedagain,Adrianexcusedhisbehaviorbysaying, Ithoughtyouweregone! AndyouthoughtIdnevercomeback,youjackass?Isthat it?Sheredoubledherefforttogettohim,whichonlycaused Daretoliftheroffherfeet.Are youtheoneresponsibleforthis?Areyou? Easy,Darecautioned. Hisholdwasntpainful,butMollyknewsheonlylooked foolishflailingaround,tryingtofreeherselfwhenthat wouldnthappen.

ShecouldntreallyimagineAdrianorchestratinga kidnappingandtransportovertheborder,butatthe moment,shewantedittobehim.Putmedown, shetoldDare. Hedid,immediately.Buthekepthisarmaroundherand evengaveherawarningsqueeze. Breathinghard,MollysaidtoDare,Doyourthing,whatever itis,becauseIwanthimoutofhere,thesoonerthebetter. Darereleasedherandsteppedinfrontofhertospeakto Adrian.Youfeltcomfortablecomingintoherhome, assumingshewouldntbebacktocatchyou atit.Why? Mollyneverleaveswithouttellinghersister.SinceNatalie didntknowanythingaboutit,Iassumedshedgoneoffto findherselforsomething.Icalledher cellbutdidntgetananswer.Heshrugged.Ifshewashere, shewouldhavepickedup. Darecrossedhisarms.Howdyougetin? ThefirstnightIdroppedby,thedoorwasunlocked. Incredulous,MollypeeredaroundDareandrepeated,The firsttime? Daremovedtoblockheragain.Goon. Uncertain,ittookAdrianafewsecondstofindhisvoice.I foundherkeysinthekitchen,and,likeanygoodfriend,I lockedherdoor. Andkeptthekeyssoyoucouldgetbackin? Iah Look,theblondesuddenlysaid.Ihavenothingtodowith whateversgoingonhere.Ionlymetthejerktonight. Adriansmoodwentfromscaredtobelligerent.Shutup,

Sally. Youshutup!Flouncing,shewenttoAdrianandpokedhim hardinthechest.Youreamiserableliar.You misrepresentedyourself. Hislipcurled.Yeah,likeyouwereallthatdiscerning anyway? Fuming,Sallydrewbackandslappedhimhardenoughto unbalancehim. Hestumbled,regainedhisbalanceand,withaferalgrowl, reachedforSally. Beforehecouldtouchher,Darecaughthiswrist.Withonlya simpleshakeofhishead,Darereinedhimin. Satisfied,SallygaveherattentionbacktoMolly.So,canI havemypurse?Idliketogetoutofhere. Mollyhandeditovertoher.Imsorryaboutthis. Daregaveheranincredulouslook. Mollyignoredhim.ItwasntSallysfaultthatAdrianhad dupedherintoapossiblecriminalact.Doyouneedtocalla cab? Sallyputhernoseintheair.Ihavemycellphonewithme. Fretting,Mollysaid,Itsnotreallyallthatsafeoutfront. Butthewomandidntagree.Itsnotallthatsafeinhere, either,soIlltakemychances.Afteranotherscathinglookat Adrian,whosmiledsicklyinreturn, sheheadedforthedoor. Daresteppedinfrontofher.Shestoppedshortofplowing intohischestand,veryslowly,putherheadbacktolookup athim. Daredidntsmile.Areyouasmartgirl,Sally? ShecastaquickglanceatMolly,butMollyknewbetterthan

tointerfere. Seeingnohelpforthcoming,SallystaredupatDare.Iliketo thinkso. Good.NowDaresmiled,butitwasntwithhumor. Infact,toMolly,itlookedoutrightthreatening.PoorSally. Shecouldonlyimaginewhatthegirlfelt. Youwereneverhere,Sally.Thisneverhappened.Dares eyesnarrowedthesmallestbit.Yougotthat? Herblondcurlsbobbedwithherfastbutuncertainnod. Absolutely.Iwentstraightfromtheclubtohome. Afteralong,assessinglook,Daremusthavebelievedher, becausehesteppedoutofherwayandevenopenedthe doorforher. Sulking,Adrianwatchedherleave.Whenthedoorshut,he letoutapentupbreathandturnedbacktoMolly.So.He triedtobrazenitout.Whatnow? Nowyouanswersomequestions.Daresquiettonedid nothingtolessentheimpliedmenace.AndunlessIm satisfiedthatyourbiggesttransgression istrespassing,Ijustmighttakeyouapart. Yourethreateningme? Surelythatwasaredundantquestion,Mollythought.Adrian wasntstupid. Imexplainingthingstoyou,Daresaid,sotherewontbe anyconfusion. Well,yourexplanationdoesnthelp.Atouchofpanicraised theoctaveofAdrianscomplaint.Istilldonthaveanyidea whatthehellisgoingon. MollytookgreatpleasureinsteppingaroundDareand confrontingAdriancloseup.YouwanttoknowwhyI

wasnthere,Adrian? Uhyes?Isupposethatsasgoodastartasany. Hedidntsoundverysureofhimself.Butthen,heneverdid. ThestarkdifferencesbetweenhimandDareweretoomany tocount.Darestoodthere,ready todowhateverwasnecessarytohelphergetherlife straightenedout.Hehadwalkedintodangerforherwithout hesitationandwithoutfear.AllAdrian wantedwasaquickescapefrompossibleharm. Onemanwasahero,theotheracoward. Shakingherhead,Mollyponderedaloud,WhatdidIever seeinyou,Adrian? Daresnorted.Iwasjustwonderingthesamething. ThatinsultedAdrian.Imahellofagoodcatch! No.Mollyshookherhead.Youwerejusthandy.A convenientcompanion.Handsome,yes.Educated.But nownowIcantbelievethatIwaseverso dumb,orsodesperate. Darefrowneddownather.Youweredesperate? ShecouldntexplaintoDare.Nothere,notnow.Hewasso independent,socapableandsecureinhisability,hewould neverunderstandawomansneed tofindtherightman,tosecureherfuturehappiness,tohave babiesandafamilyandloveeverlasting. MollyknewthatshedalwayswantedmorethanAdrian.Not betterlookingorricher,butsomeonewithrealhonor, someonefaithfulandbraveand everythingthatwasDare. Butinthirtyyears,shehadntmetthatperson.Shedmet otherslikeAdrian.Somebetterlookingbutnotassettled.

Somekinderbutwithoutmeansof support.Shesighed. Darewatchedher,soshehedgedbyasking,Youdontthink Adrianishandsome? Distastenarrowedhiseyes.Nowyourejustfuckingwith me. Thelaughsurprisedher;inthemiddleofsomuchturmoil, Darecouldstilldothatforher. Grinning,shesaid,Now,Dare.Hesnotastallasyou,but hestallenough.ShepretendedtoexamineAdrian.Hes notasmuscularasyou,either,but hetakescareofhimself. Redfacedandoutraged,Adriansaid,Igotothegymevery damnday! Blondhair,Mollycontinued,greeneyes,anicesmile. WhysheteasedDare,shedidntknow.Butwithhimlooking soresentfuloverherpast relationship,shecouldntseemtohelpherself.Andwhen Adrianwants,hecanbeprettycharismatic. Yeah,Ibet.Ontoher,Daretookanaggrievedstanceand flattenedhismouth.Youfinishednow? Shetriedtohidehersmile.Itseemedamillionyearsagothat shehadsettledforsteadydating,goodlooks,intelligence andapleasantpersonality.But nowsheknewsomethingaboutherownstrengths.Nowshe knewthatshecouldgetthroughjustaboutanything. NeveragainwouldamanofAdriansilkbegoodenoughfor her.Shedeserveditall. ShedeservedDare. Yes.Nowthatshedcometothatconclusion,shefeltmore

atpeacethanshehadinaverylongtime.ShepattedDares chest.Imdone. Thelookhegaveherwaslongandintimate.Hetookher handinhisownandkissedherknucklesbeforeheturned backtoAdrian. Flummoxed,MollystaredatDaresprofile.Shesensedthere wassomesignificancebehindthattenderkiss,butshe wasntsureofthemeaning. Darebroughtherbackaroundwithastarkstatement.She waskidnapped. What?AdrianlookedfromMollytoDareandbackagain. Hisgazesharpenedonthelingeringbruisesvisibleonher faceandarms.DearGod. JudgingAdriansreactiontothat,Darecontinued,saying, Mengrabbedherfromrightoutfrontofthisapartment. Heshookhishead.Butwhy? AsDaretookastepcloser,Adrianbackedupastep. Theystuffedherintothebackofavan,transportedher acrossthedamncountryandthentookherovertheborder intoTijuana. Tijuana? Thegenuine,undilutedshockonAdriansfaceconvinced Mollyonehundredpercentthathehadnothingtodowith herkidnapping.Hewasasnake,but hewasntacriminalofthatcaliber. WhenIfoundher,Daretoldhim,shewaschainedtothe wallofanairlesshut,halfstarved,druggedandabused. Eyesbugging,Adrianstruggledtolifthisslackenedjaw.But thatthatsnotpossible.Nothere.HepointedatMolly.Not her.

Dareadvancedagain,andAdrianendedupwithhisbackto thewall.Whynother? Itdoesntmakeanysense,thatswhy.Shesnota politiciansdaughterorastarletorawealthyheir.Hiseyes buggedagain.Arentwomentaken acrossthebordertosellassexslavesorsomething? Moreoftenthanyoudliketothink. ClearlybaffledthatanyonewouldtakeMollyforthat purpose,Adrianshookhishead.Yousaidyoufoundher there.Hisbrowsknitashestruggledto pieceitalltogether.Whatwereyoudoingthere?Andwhat doyouhavetodowithanyofthis? Igotheroutofthere.Theywerenowalmostchesttochest. Buthow? ItswhatIdo. Inasuddenturnaround,Adriansexpressionlightenedand becameshrewd.Letmeunderstandthis.Yourescue peopleforcompensation? Crossinghisarmsoverhischestandlookingdownhisnose atAdrian,Daresaid,Thatshowitusuallyworks. Nofuckingway!AdrianshovedagainstDare,butdidnt budgehimatall.Iseewhatthisisnow.Youwantmetopay herransom,dontyou?Rage distortedhisbettersense,andhepointedpastDaretoMolly. Shedroppedme.Didshetellyouthat? Shementionedit,Daresaid,verydeadpan. SoImnotresponsibleforher! Notatall. Adriancontinuedtofume.Idonthavethatkindofmoney, andsheknowsit.Ifyouthoughttosqueezemeforpayment,

well,then,youcandamnwellforget it. AstillnessfilledtheroomasDareexpandedinfury,and Mollyheldherbreath. Toostupidtosensehisownperil,Adrianadded,What happenstohernowisnoconcernofmine. CHAPTERSEVENTEEN OH,GOD,THATWASLOWevenforAdrian.Mollywantedto killhim.Again. Shechargedforward,butstumbledtoahaltwhenDares harsh,lowvoicesoundedwiththeimpactofanexploding bomb. Youthink,evenforonefuckingsecond,thatIwouldtake yourgoddamnedmoney? Wow.Mollyblinkedatthatlethaltone. SmashingupagainstAdrian,Darelookedmoreenragedthan Mollyhadeverseenhim. YouthinkIdevenletyoubeinherlife? IIntimidated,belatedlyrealizinghiserror,Adriantried toappealtoMollyforhelp. Stillpeeved,shesilentlymouthedthewordsFuck.You. Shocked,AdrianreturnedhisattentiontoDare.Thatsfine, hesoothed.Heturnedhisfacetotheside,tryingtoescape Daresdeadlystare.That thatswhatIwassaying.ThatIdontwanttobeinherlife. Iswear. Didyouwantoutofitenoughtocoordinatethisstunt? What?No!Alarmed,hesmashedfartherbackagainstthe wall.Iownabar,thatsall.Damnit,Molly,tellhimthatIm

notakidnapper. Idontknow,shehedged,examininganail.Ididntknow youwerethetypetoweaselintomyapartment,either,but hereyouare.Athoughtoccurredto her,andshelookedup.Didyouhavesexinmybed? No! Unsatisfied,shenarrowedhereyes.Butyouwouldhave? Wellyeah.Probably. StillnotgivingAdriananyroomtobreathe,Dareasked Molly,Whatdoyouwantmetodowithhim? ImplicitinthequestionwasthathedpulverizeAdrianifshe wishedit. JusttomakeAdriansquirm,shepretendedtothinkaboutit. Butshewasntapersonwhocondonedunnecessary violence,andneitherwasDare.Still, sheappreciatedhisoffer. Youcanlethimgo. Daredidntmove.Yousure,honey? Hecalledherhoneyagain.Itthrilledher,butthiswasno timeforcelebration.Mollyclearedherthroatandher thunderingemotions.Yes,ofcourse.Come on,Dare,webothknowthatyoudonthurtthosesmaller, weakerordumberthanyou. Daresteppedback,buthesaid,Forhim,Idmakean exception. Slumpingagainstthewall,kneesshaky,Adrianstruggledto gatherhimself.Imsorry.IdidntmeanItsjustthatIdont havethatkindofmoney. Yourebroke,Iknow.Dareshookhisheadindisgust.Now shutup.

Hesbroke? Itwasalmostcomical,howquicklyAdriannodded agreement.Thebusinessisstruggling.Financially,Imin overmyhead.Idefinitelydonthavethekind offundsitdtaketosetupakidnappingthiselaborate.I swearIdont. Mollytookaseatonthecouch,notreallysurprisedbythat news.Adrianspentwelloutofhismeansthatwasone reasonhedwantedhertobuyhim things.Whenyoufirstcamehere,Adrian,howdidmy apartmentlook? Likeitalwayslooks.KeepinganeyeonDare,heinched overtoachairanddroppedintoit. Itwasnttrashedlikethis? No.Helookedaroundagain.Youdidntdoit? Sodense.Now,whywouldIdestroymyownapartment? Ihavenoidea.Shouldersslumping,heranahandthrough hisblondhair.Afteramoment,hisgazeliftedtoMolly. Chagrined,heaskedsoftly,Youre okay? Hisconcernwastoolittle,toolate,tobeanythingbut disingenuous.Illsurvive,yes. Hecontinuedtosearchherface.Whythehelldidthis happen? Thatswhatwerestilltryingtofindout.Sheappreciatedit thatDarestoodbesideherbutdidntinsistontakingthe lead.Asmuchasheopenlydisliked Adrian,heletherdothetalking. Sheknewthatifsheneededhimto,hedtakeoverforher. Buthetrustedhertohandlethis,andthatmeantalot.Molly

leanedforward,herelbowsonher knees,togiveAdrianadirectlook.UntilIknowwhosetup thiswholething,Iwontbesafe. Thatliftedhisfrownintohighbrowedsurprise.Youmean itcouldhappenagain?HeglancedoveratDare.Thatswhy hesstillwithyou? Mollywasntsurehowtoanswerthat,butthen,shedidnt needto. WhyImhereisnoneofyourdamnbusiness,Daretold him.JustknowthatIwillfindtheoneresponsible,soifyou knowanything,anythingatall,youd besmarttosaysorightnow. ToplacateDare,Adrianheldupbothhands.IthinkIve alreadyproventhatIvaluemyownhidetoomuchtolie.He smiledwithselfmockery.Inall honesty,IwishIcouldhelp.MollyandIhadourdifferences, butIneverwantedtoseeherhurt.AndthentoMolly,I hopeyouknowthat. Youonlywantedmymoney. Annoyancedistortedhisconcern,andheshotback,Youhad morethanenoughtospend!Butno,youweretootightfisted forameaslygift. Dareshifted,givingAdrianpause.Hesaidquickly,No offenseintended. Bearingnoexpressionatall,Darewarned,Dontinsulther again. MollypattedDaresarm.Inthis,shedidntneedhisdefense. Look,Adriansaid,allIknowisthatNataliecalledmeto askwhereyouwere. Whywouldshecallyou?ThatmadenosensetoMolly.

HellifIknow.Itoldherthatwewerenttogetheranymore andshesaidshealreadyknewthat,butshedgottenanodd emailaboutanextendedtripyou weretaking,andshehopedIcouldtellhersomethingabout it.ShesaidshedcalledKathi,andKathididntknowwhere youwere,either. SoKathihadknownshewasmissing?Daresaidhedtalked toherfather.DidthatmeanthatKathihadntmentioneditto him?Maybebecauseshe thoughtnothingofit,butmaybeherdadhadalready known. Washecapableofdoingthistoher?Shewassadtohaveto admittothetruth:herfatherwascapableofjustabout anything.Shewasntyetconvinced thatheddonethis,butneitherwouldsheruleouthis involvement. Mollysatbackinthecouch,thinkingofalltheoddangles. So,sinceIwasmissing,youdecidedtojustcometomy apartmentandpretenditwasyour own? Adrianhadthegoodgracetoshowshame.Atfirst,Iwas onlycurious.Itsnotlikeyoutotakeoffwithouttellingyour sister.ToDare,hesaid,Theyre reallyclose. Darejustboredholesinhimwithhisdarkstare. Adrianlookedawayuneasily.Anyway,IguessIpictured youmakingupthetripstoryforyoursister,whileyouwere here,wallowinginmisery,maybe missingme?Hetriedasickly,unsuresmile.Iwassortof hopingthatwemighthaveachancetogetbacktogether.

PuttingahandonDaretorestrainhimjustincaseMolly grittedout,Areyououtofyourmind?Beforehecould answer,sheheldupahand,silencing him.Ifyouwerethelastmanonearth,Iwouldembrace celibacywithgusto. Adrianscowledattheinsult. AndDareemphasized,Wonteverhappen,sodonteven thinkaboutit. HeacceptedthatasthewarningDaremeantittobe.Fine, butIfiguredifyouwerehereandjustnotuptovisitingwith yoursister,itcouldnthurtformeto try.WhenIcameby,yourlandlordgrabbedmebecauseyour mailhadstackedup.Iguessshedidntknowwedsplit,and shewantedmetobringitin. OtherthantellingNatalie,Ididntadvertiseourbreakup. ToMollysmind,herpersonallifewasntanyonesbusiness. Right.AdriancontinuedtoglanceatDare.Anyway,she didntthinkanythingofmebeinghere. Sinceyouletyourselfin,shemustveassumedyoustillhad akey. Adrianshrugged.Probably. Darespokeup.HaveyoutalkedwithBishop? NotsinceMollyandIsplit,no. Good.Dont. Doyouknowhim?HelookedfromDaretoMollyagain,as ifhewasntsurewhowouldanswerhim. Imethim.Darecouldnthidehisdistaste.Itoldhim exactlywhatImgoingtotellyou. Cautiousnow,Adriansaid,Andthatis? Keepyourmouthshut.Darewenttohimandtookhimby

thearm,pulledhimtohisfeetandstartedhimtowardthe door.Dontmentionthislittlemeet andgreettoanyone.Farasyouknow,Mollyisstillmissing. Yougotthat? Yeah,sure.HelookedbackatMolly.IftheressomewayI canhelp MollyfollowedDare.Youcanstayawayfrommyapartment forstarters. Right.WhenDarereleasedhim,hestartedtoturntoward Molly. Daredidntgivehimthechance.Heopenedthedoorand shovedAdrianouttothehall. Wait!WhatdoItellhersisterifshecallsmeagain? Youhavenothingtotell,right? Theclearwarninghitthemark.Wellyeah,Iknow.Still Adrianwaffled.But Mollywillbeintouchwithhersisterandanyoneelseshe wantstoupdate.Itsnoconcernofyours.Rememberthat. Dareshutthedoorinhisfaceand thenlockedit. Mollybitbackasmile.Thatwasalmostmean. Forlongseconds,hestoodtherestaringather.Thiswasa newlookforhim,oneshehadntseenbefore.Hehadthat sameintensityaswhenenraged, butsheknewhewasnttrulyangryoveranything.Theway hewatchedhermadeherfeelwarm. Andaware.Andexcited. Dare? Howdoyoufeel,Molly? Thegravellytonetohislowvoicestrokedalonghernerve

endings.Thesparkofheatinhisblueeyes,andtheslowrise andfallofhismuscledchest,took thestrengthfromherknees. Imgood. Notjustfine? God,washeteasingher?Likeapatientpredatorwaitingto pounce,hekepthisdistancebythedoor. Mollylickedherbottomlip.IShelookedaroundather stillmessyapartment,knowingitdidntmatter.Everything elsecouldwait.Butshecouldnt. SheturnedbacktoDaresprobinggaze.Afteradeepbreath, shesaid,Ifyouwantthetruth,Imeatenupwithwanting you. Hestraightenedhispostureagainstthedoor.Hisshoulders flexed. Voiceroughandraw,heasked,Areyousure,Molly?And then,moreharshly,Tellmeyouresure. Seeinghimlikethis,recognizingthelust,affectedher,and shecouldntthinkofanythingtosay.Instead,sheopenedher armstohim. Alowcurse,barelyaudible,lefthim.Inthenextinstanthe hadhispowerfularmsaroundher.Hepulledherupagainst hisbody,kissingherhardenough, hungrilyenough,totipherheadback. AndMollylovedit. DAREWASNOTAMANtolosecontrol,butthethingsshe madehimfeelHewasntusedtobeingjealous,but,damn, hehadbeen.Redhotand

enragedwithjealousy,andfornootherreasonthanthat MollyhadoncecaredforAdrian.Darethoughtabouttaking thefoolapart,andhewouldhave, exceptthatithardlyseemedfair.Herexwaspathetic. Whatthehellhadsheeverseeninhim? Andthenseeinghersostrong,soproudIthaddamnnear puthimovertheedge.Neverbeforehadhethoughtabout theperfectfemalecounterpartto him,butnowheknew:Mollydefinedthatwoman. Hestruggledtogetittogether,butshedidnthelpmuch.The tasteofher,thewayherfingertipsdugintohisshoulders withinsistence,andhowshelifted intohim,pressingintohiserection,maderationalthoughta farfetchedthing. Butheknewwhatshedbeenthrough,themarksthatshe stillcarriedandthememoriesthatcontinuedtohaunther. Neverwouldheaddtothat.Hed soonerdie. Molly.Dareopenedhismouthonherthroat,suckedonher soft,fragrantskinandloweredonehandtoherass.Heloved thefeelofthatfirm,plumpflesh, kneadingher,stroking.Weshouldslowdown,hesaid againstherthroat,Ishouldslowdown. No.Pleasedont.Shegrabbedhisfaceandbroughthis mouthbacktohers.Nomorewaiting,Dare. No.Hell,hecouldntwait.Theneedtoconsumeherpushed him. Buthehadtoknow. Holdinghershoulders,heputenoughspacebetweenthem totalk.Thebedroomisokay?

Shenodded,butthenpausedandasked,Whatdoyou mean? NoFuck,hehatedthis.Yourassholeboyfriendwashere, andwebothknowheintendedtouseyourbed,so Herexpressionsoftened.ForgetAdrian.Idontthinkhedid anythinginthere.ShetookDareshandandturnedtolead himtotheroom. Hewassocharmedbyherurgencythathegrinned.Lustand humorwhoknew?Hedneverexperiencedthecombo before. Mollyslong,faststepsdidamazingthingstothatdelectable backsidethathedjustbeenpawing,andhehadtosay,with heartfeltsincerity,Youhavean incredibleass,Molly. Shesmiledathimoverhershoulderandtuggedhimintothe room.Thankyou. Hestoodinfrontofher,thebedrightthere,herneed obvious.Damn,buthishandsshookwiththewealthof everythinghefelt.Hedknownextremelust, buthehadntknownthis. Smoothingherhairback,hebenttokissherforehead,her cheek,herchinandfinallyhermouth.Ivethoughtofseeing you,allofyou,ahundredtimes. Hedroppedhisfingerstothetopbuttonofherblouse. Shekeptherheaddown,watchinghishandsasheopened theblouselittlebylittle.Whenhereachedthebutton betweenherbreasts,shesuckedina shudderingbreath. Dare? Hekissedhertemple,slippedthelastbuttonfreeand

openedtheblouse.Hmm?Damn,shewassexy. Istillhavemarks. Iknow.Hestrokedthebackofonefingeroverabruise visibleonherribs.Idliketokillthemalloveragain.But theyrealreadygone,honey. Itsnotthat.Ijusttheylookawful. Heslippedtheblouseoffhershouldersandletitdroptothe floor.Nothingaboutyouisawful.Bending,hekissedthe angriestbruiseleftonherright shoulder.AndIwontletanyoneeverhurtyouagain.To getherbackwheresheneededtobe,Darekissedhisway alongherupperbody,overher shoulders,hercollarbone,herthroat.Everysooften,hegave heragentlelovebiteandthensootheditwithasoft openmouthedkissandthestrokeofhis tongue. Holdingontohisforearms,Mollytippedherheadback.His handseasilyspannedthewidthofhernarrowback.Holding herlikethat,hearchedherup andclosedhismouthoverherleftnipplethroughherbra. Hervibratinggroantestedhisresolve,butheheldon. Barely.Whileheteasedher,heteasedhimself,too,by grindinghiserectionagainsthersoftbody. Shesuckedinabreath.Dare?Herrighthandlefthis forearmandwenttohisabdomen,thendownalongtheflyof hisjeans. Throughthedenimshefoundandstrokedhim,makinghim nuts. ThatHewentstill,hisstomachclenching.Thatmight notbeagreatidea.ButGod,hedidntstopher.

Calculatingasonlyawomancouldbe,Mollywhisperedwith pleasure,YoureevenbiggerthanIimagined. Fuckpatience.Tease.Dareopenedherbraandpushedthe cupsdowntoexposeher.Herheavybreasts,nowfreedof restraint,swayedwithherevery movement.Hernipplesweresoftpinkincolor,pulledtight. Growlingwithimpatience,Darepriedherhandoffhisdick sothathecouldremovethebracompletely,andhecould haveswornthatheheardherlaugh. Itdidntmatter.Shewouldntbeamusedforlong. Goingtohisknees,heopenedthesnaponherjeans,slid downthezipperandtuggedboththejeansandherpanties toherknees. Dare.Soundingstrangled,shebracedherhandsonhis shoulders.Whatareyou? Holdingherbacksideinbothhands,hepulledhercloseand pressedhisfaceagainsther.Heinhaledherscentand growledagain.Icantwait. Ashecamebacktohisfeet,shesaidsomething,buthe wasntsurewhat.Liftingherupandontothebed,Dare strippedtheclothesfromherbody. Eventhoughhisgazewantedtolingeronherbreastsand puckerednipples,hersmoothbellyandthatneattriangleof darkpubichair,hestillsawthe bruises.Instarkcontrasttoherpale,softskin,theywere impossibletomiss.Theyjustdidntmatter,nottohowhe feltabouther,howmuchhewantedher. Asthemarkshealed,theyturnedmuddiedshadesofyellow andgreen.Buttheywerehealing.Mollywouldbeokay. Hedidntfindtheinjuriesugly,asshedid.Ifanything,they

onlyservedtoremindhimthatwhenhedcarriedheroutof thatplace,hedtakenresponsibility forher.Shereliedonhimnow. Shewashis. Withonehandhetouchedthesleeksilkyskinofherupper thigh,whilewiththeotherheopenedhisjeansandeasedthe zipperdownoverhishardon.He hadtostepbacktogethisshoesandsocksoff,andthenhe strippedoffhisshirtandtosseditaside. Kneestogetherinamodestandenticingpose,Mollyrose uptoherelbowstowatchhim. Heshuckedoffthejeansandstraightenedinfrontofher.If sheenjoyedlookingathimhalfasmuchashelikedseeing her,hehadnoproblemwiththat. Butthelongershelooked,themorehewantedher.Andshe wastakinghertime,studyingeveryinchofhim. Youveseenmenbefore,Molly. Slowlyshakingherheadtodenythat,shewhispered,Ive neverseenamanlikeyou. Whatthehelldidthatmean?Giventhewaysheheldher bottomlipinherteeth,andhowhergazewentallsoftand heated,itwasntacomplaint.Idont wanttorushyou,honey,buthowlongshouldIstandhere? Itjustoccurredtome,shesaid,hergazestillonhiscock.I donthaveanything.Imean,forprotection. Thatwasherholdup?Hedidntthinkso.Illtakecareofit. Didshethink,evenforasecond,thathewouldntdothe responsiblething?Orwasshehesitatingoutofnervousness? Heretrievedalonecondomfromhiswallet;fornow,it woulddo.Butafterthat,hedgettheboxfromhisduffelbag.

Tobesure,heaskedher,Anything else? Hergazeliftedtohis,andshelickedherlips.Justhurry up. Smiling,Daresaid,Right.Heshouldhaveknownthatshe wasntthetypetohideherfeelings.Ifshehadsecond thoughts,shedhavetoldhimso. Ashetookprecautions,shewatchedhimwithsomuch fascinationthatmaintainingcontrolwasnteasy.Hewanted nosecretsbetweenthem,nomodesty orshyness.Thelightonherdeskwasenough,andhewas relievedthatshedidntaskhimtoturnitoff. Darestretchedoutoverher,andasherlegspartedhesettled againstherwithafeelingofrightness.Hedhadsex;thiswas more. Whileheagainexploredherlushbreastsandtautnipples,he kissedher.Sheacceptedhistongue,evensuckedonit, makinghimnutswithlust.Her handswerealloverhim,fromhisbacktohisassandthighs, andbackuptohisshoulders.Sheseemedeverybitasurgent ashim. Inminutes,theywerebothbreathinghardandfast.Not movingprovedimpossibleforhim,especiallywithherso softandgivingbeneathhim,squirming eachtimehetuggedonanipplewithhisfingertipsor nibbledonherearlobe. Whenhefirstrolledhishipsagainsther,shefreedher mouthandmoaned.Justasshehadonthedock,shewent hotandreadywithblazingspeed. Movingtothesideofher,Dareslidhishanddownalongher

bodyuntilitrestedlowonherbelly. Youaresosmall,andsosweet.Herubbedhischeek againstherbreast.Butnotsmallhere.Godalmighty, woman,youhaveakillerbody. Raisingherhandsoverherhead,hereyesclosed,Molly clenchedinanticipation.Helovedlookingather,atthe honestreactionsonherface. Watchingher,heasked,Areyouwet,Molly? Shenodded,thenarched,tryingtohurryhim. Teasingherwassohot,sosexy,thatitslowedhimdown enough.Hewantedtotakehistimeandrelishthis.Hedidnt wanttomissasinglemoanorsigh. Letmesee,hewhispered,andhecuppedhishandover her. Herfingersknottedinthesheetateithersideofherhead. Shelookedathimwithdazedeyesandhonestneed.So beautiful.Soreal. Whilehestrokedoverher,partingher,exploringherwith justhisfingertips,hebentandslowlysuckedononenipple. Shetwistedbeneathhim,breathing hardandfast.Withhisteeththistime,Daretuggedonher nipple,andshecriedout. Hechosethatmomenttorelentlesslypresstwofingersinto her,asdeeplyashecould. Thewayherbodyclaspedhisfingers,thelowsoundsofraw pleasureshemade,toldhimhowshelikedthat.Butitwasnt enoughforhim. Whileheeasedhisfingersout,andthenbackintoher,he kissedeachnippleagain,andthenherribs.Whenhetrailed apathofdampkissesdownher

abdomen,shewentstillmaybewithexpectation,maybe withuncertainty. Itdidntmatter. Hedippedhistongueintohernavel,makinghersquirm more,thenovertoherhipbone.Aticklishspotforher. Likingthat,hestoredtheknowledgeawayintohismemory bankswithplanstoinvestigateitmorelater. Rightnow,hewantedtotasteher.Hewantedtohearhercry out,feelherreaction,whenhetookherintohismouth, replacedhisfingerswithhistongue. Already,herheadyscenthadripened,sweetandrich.The strongestaphrodisiacforanymanwasawomansarousal. ForDare,Mollysarousalamplified theeffecttenfoldbecause,insomanyways,shewasspecial. Whenshetangledherfingersinhishair,urgentlyholdingon tohim,hedecidedthishadtobethebiggestturnonever. Nuzzlingagainsther,hersmallcriesfillinghishead,Dare lickedoverherturgidclitoris.Shealmostshotoffthebed. Pleasedwiththatreaction,hebraced aforearmoverhermidsectiontokeepherstill,teasedwith histongueagainandthenclosedhismoutharoundherto gentlysuck. Thesecondhetastedher,hewantedtocome. Mollydid,too. Herdeeprumblinggroansaidmorethanwordscould.She archedherback;herlegstrembled.Shemovedagainsthim, squeezingthefingershekept deepinsideherasherclimaxswelled,crestedandwracked throughher.Thesoundsshemadewerealmostasgoodas thesweettasteofher.

Darekeptherthere,atthepeak,relishingeverysecondof her,untilshegroanedandpressedbackintothemattress. Liftinghishead,helookedupthelengthofherbodytoher face.Eyesclosed,cheekbonesdamp,cheststillheaving,she layutterlylimp.Slowly,heeased hisfingersfromherandthenputthemintohismouth.He closedhiseyes,too,lovingtheintimacy,loving Hisheartdamnnearstopped. HelookedupatMollyagainandfoundherwatchinghimin satedamazementandsomethingmore,somethingthat unsettledhim. Hiswholebodyonfire,Darerushedupoverher.Pushedby turbulentemotion,hecaughtherfaceandkissedherhard. Shegaspedandthenaccepted histongueagain.Theneedtodevourherpushedhim.He reacheddownand,claspingaknee,spreadherlegswide. Stillkissingher,unabletogetenoughtoappeasehim,he situatedhimself.Hecouldfeelher,open,warmandwet, againsttheheadofhiscock,andit wasenoughtomakehimlockhisteeth.Hehadtopauseto getcontrol. Nowayinhellwouldheriskhurtingher. Leashinghistattereddiscipline,strugglingtobegentle,he rockedintoher.Small,tightandperfect. Hisheadswam.Emotionmingledwithcarnality,leavinghim blindsided.Mollywrappedaroundhim,cocooninghiminher scentandthefeelofher.He savoredthewayshehuggedhimsotightlyandthewayshe methiseverythrustwiththeriseofherhips. Dareputonehandbeneaththatdelectableassandliftedher

evenmoresohecouldgodeeper,soshedtakeallofhim. Innotimeatall,itputherovertheedgeagain.Shefreedher mouthtogaspandgroan,herheadback,herhairspreadout aroundher. Seeingherlikethat,feelingeachcontractiononhiscock,did himin.Lookatme,Molly. Lipsparted,faceflushed,sheopenedhereyesandshared everythingwithhim.Itwasenough.Almosttoomuch. Hedroveintoher,groaned,andatthelastsecondtookher mouthagainashegainedhisownvolatilerelease. Minuteslater,Dareeasedtohisbackbesideher.Evenashis heartstillracedandhislegsstayedshaky,histhoughts scrambledinanefforttosortout everythinghefelt.Dominantinthosefeelingswasaneedto cementhisoddrelationshipwithher. Hedroppedaforearmoverhiseyes. Hell,Mollystillthoughtshedbepayinghimforhis protection.Didshealsothinkthatoncehesecuredher safety,theydbedone?Hesnortedatthat repugnantthought. Mollystirred,turnedtohersidetocuddleagainsthimand settledbackintoadeepsleep. Lookingdownatherinamazement,Darefrownedbut whenherbreathingevenedintoalightsnore,thefrown turnedintoagrin.Apparentlyshedidnt sufferthesameconfusionplaguinghim.Givenallshedbeen through,hewasglad. Heputhisheadbackagainstthemattressandwondered whatspellMollyAlexanderhadputonhim.Becausehesure ashelldidntfeellikehimself

anymore. CHAPTEREIGHTEEN UNABLETOSLEEP,Daregrewantsy.Takingcarenotto disturbMolly,heslippedoutofthebed.Beforehewentinto thebathroomheliftedthetangled coversoverher.Hedlefthercrosswaysinthebed,herfeet hangingovertheside,butthatdidntseemtointerferewith hertiredness. Seeingherlikethat,sopeaceful,madehisheartclutchanew. Henoticedthathernowswollenlipsweretippedupina slightsmile.Godknewthewoman didnthavemuchtosmileaboutlately.Herinnocenceand optimismcharmedhim,burnedhim,broughtoutallhis protectiveinstinctsandotherless comfortableemotionsthathebarelyrecognized. Turningawayfromthebed,Darepickeduphisjeansand wentintoherbathroom.Thespacewassmall,butitdidnt feelcramped.Hedisposedofthe condom,washedupandpulledonhisjeans.Curiositygotto him,andheopenedhermedicinecabinet.Afewroutine overthecounterdrugssatwitha prescriptionforbirthcontrolpills.Shedmissedtwoweeks worth,ofcourse,socondomsremainednecessary.Butthe ideaofbeinginsideherwithout barriers Heclosedthecabinetandtookamomenttoclearhishead. Insideavanitydrawerhefoundafewmakeupitems,a varietyofhairbrushesandcombs, typicalfemininehairadornments.TheideaofMollywitha

clipinherhairteasedhissensesandlefthimgrinningforno reasonatall. Turningtothetub,heliftedthepastelcoloredsoapand breathedinthescentofhyacinth.HecouldimagineMolly soakinginthatoldfashionedtub, coveredinfragrantbubbles.Butnothingsmelledasgoodas herbareskin,hersofthairandherexcitement. Damnit,hedjusttakenher.Shedopenedherselftohim completely. Butitwasntenough. Allhecouldthinknowwasthathewantedmore.Alotmore. Morehotsex,thefullbodycontactofhercuddling afterward,moretalkingandlaughingand learningtogether Nowwhatwashesupposedtodo? MOLLYAWOKETOANemptybed.ShereachedoutforDare butfeltnothing.Sittingup,sherealizedthattheroomwas nowdarkwithonlyasliveroflight comingfrombeneaththebedroomdoor. Shestartedtoslideoutfromunderthecoversandshe hearditagain.Thenoisethathadawakenedher:akeyinthe frontdoor.Again. Suddenlythelightintheotherroomdisappeared,leaving herinutterdarkness. WhatwasDaredoing? Heartinherthroat,Mollyslippedoutofthebedandpulleda blanketaroundher.Paddingbarefoot,shewenttothe bedroomdoor,slowlyturnedtheknob

andopeneditohsoquietly. Hergazescannedthedimlivingroom.Enoughmoonlight filteredinthewindowsforhertoseethatDarehadbeen working.Hewassuchaneatfreakthat themessofherapartmentmusthavemadeitimpossiblefor himtosleep. Ormaybe,hislustappeased,hejusthadntbeeninterested instayingthatclosetoher. Thatthoughthurt,soshepusheditasideandinstead concentratedonseeingtheroom.Shenotedthatthe overturnedtablehadbeenrightedandhermail neatlystacked. ShedidntseeDare. Beforeshecouldworrytoomuchaboutthat,thefront doorknobturned.Asthedooropened,itscreechedinthat familiarway. Hushedvoicescamefromtheouterhallway,rightoutside thedoor,whispering,maybeeventeasing. Aroundnigglingfear,Mollyfrownedinvaguerecognition. Onevoicealmostsoundedlike Thedoorswungopenandtherewasasuddenrush.Her sistersquealed,andaloudthumpsounded,followedbya curse. Hurryingoutofthebedroom,Mollyshouted,Natalie!She flippedonalightandfroze. Sureenough,shedrecognizedhersistersvoice,evenina whisper.Asiftossedthere,Nataliesprawledinaneasychair, unhurtbutstunned. Inthemiddleofthefloor,Darepinneddownamanalmostas bigashim.Hekepthisgunbarrelpressedhardagainstthe

strangersjaw. Withthelightson,Nataliesawthegunandscreamed.Oh, myGod!Whatareyoudoing?Whoareyou? Daredidnttakehisgazeoffhiscaptive.Withanodofhis headtowardMolly,hesaid,Imwithher. Ashersisterandthemanglancedather,Mollygavealoose fingerwave. Darenudgedtheman.Whoareyou? Hismouthflattened.NoddinghisheadtowardNatalie,he said,Imwithher.Darefrowned. NataliescrambledfromthechairinwhatMollyrecognized asattackmode. Wait.Mollyhadnoideawhatwasgoingon,orwhothe manonthefloormightbe,butshewouldntallowhersister tojumpDare. Shedidntwanthersistertogethurt. Everyone,justchillasecond,please. Easiersaidthandone,themanbeneathDarequipped. Thestrangerkepthispalms,ateithersideofhishead,open andnonthreatening.Butsomethingaboutthewayhestared backatDaremadeMolly uneasy. Daredidntmovewhichmeanthedidnthurttheguy,but neitherdidhelethimup. Mollypulledtheblankettighter.Dare,thisismysister, Natalie. Donthurthim,Nataliewarned.AndthentoMolly,Whats goingonhere? Dareis,um,protectingme.Nothingtoworryabout.Hes oneofthegoodguys.

DisbeliefflashedoverNatalieswhitefacebeforeshe gatheredhergumption.Well,then,tellhimtogetoffofJett. Shelookedreadytolaunchherselfat Dareifhemadethewrongmove,soMollymovedcloserto her. Ifshehadto,shedtacklehersister.Buthopefullyitwouldnt cometothat,notwithhernakedbeneaththeblanket. Dare,Mollyventured.Helookedtobeinakillingmood. Really,sheismysister,Ipromise. Sister,gotit.Indecisionplain,Dareeasedbackjustalittle butkepthisgunontheman. JettSutter.Thestrangerlaythere,notreallydiscomfitedby theattack.Iknow.Soundslikejetsetter.Myfolksare regularcomedians.Hetiltedhishead toseeMolly.Eyessodarktheylookedblacktookher measure.Hislong,sinfullashesmighthaveseemed effeminateonanotherman,butnotonhim.Im gladtoseeyoureokay,Molly. Mollyblinked.Youknowme? OnlyfromwhatNataliehastoldme,whichwasallflattering butdidntincludeassociateswithguns. HisgoodhumorleftMollygaping.Hewasahandsomeman, andevenflatonhisbackwithaguninhisfacehemanaged toappearcompetent. Howdoyouknowmysister? HelookedMollyoverintheblanketandcockedabrow.Ask Natalie. Natalieturnedthreeshadesofred.Oh,Molly,theresso muchwehavetotalkabout.Andthen,asifsheforgotthe men,shewailed,Iwassoworried

aboutyou.Wherethehellhaveyoubeen? MollyalmostlostherblanketwhenNataliejerkedherintoa tightbearhug.Shewantedtosoothehersister,shereally did.Butwiththemenonthefloor thetimingwasdefinitelyoff. Imokay,Natalie.Really.Overhersistersshoulder,Molly sawDareeyeingJett. Hesaidlow,Youmightwanttostoplookingatherlike that. Themanactuallygrinned.Right.Sorry.Itsnotlascivious,I swear.Iwasjustnotingthesimilaritiesbetweenthetwoof them. Sureyouwere.Dareleanedintohimalittlemore.What areyoutwodoinghere? Jettputonehandbehindhishead,restedtheotheronhis chestandlookedtobegettingcomfortable.Wejust returnedfromatrip.ItoldNataliethatMolly wasprobablybackbynow.Itsthemiddleofthenight,so shedidntwanttocall,butshecouldntstandwaitinguntil themorningtocheckonher.SoHe shruggedasiftoexcuseNataliesmisguidedintention,and then,withcaution,usedthesideofhishandtoedgethegun awayfromhisface.Shewas goingtopeekinandmakesurehersisterwasokay.Thats all. Daredidntlikethatonebit.Youreshittingme.Youtwo snuckin,andyouweregoingtolookatMollyinherbed IwasonlyheretoseetoNataliessafety.Shedhavedoneall thepeekingonherown. WithherhandsonMollysbareshoulders,Nataliepushed

herbackthelengthofherarms.Doyouhaveanyideahow damnedscaredIvebeenforyou? Mollysighedandagainadjustedherblanket.Ifshelostit, sheddieonthespot.Icalledyouearlier,butyoudidnt answer. Aghast,Natalieblinkedasifreadytocry.When? Sinceshedidntknowwhattimeitwas,Mollycouldnt answer.AssoonasDareandIgotbacktotheapartment.I dontknow.Hoursago. Oh,God,Molly.Imsorry.IShelookedatJett.WeHe Wehookedup,Jettsaidwithasmile.Longpastdue. Anyway,yoursisterwasfocusedonotherthingsmost recently,andshedidntremembertokeep herphonecharged.NowdisregardingDaresgun,hesatup, proppedhisforearmsonhisjeancoveredkneesandacted asifhehadntjustbeen assaulted.Thetimingisoff,butwhatthehell,right?Were gettingmarried. ItwasMollysturntogape.Married? Nataliebobbedherhead,andtearsswaminhereyes.Ilove him. Jettsmiled,too.Ihopeyoullforgiveherformissingyour call.Shereallyhasbeenworriednonstop. Ofcourse,Mollysaid,stilltryingtoprocesstheideaofher veryindependentsisterplanningtowedamanthatMolly hadnevermet. Wherewereyou?Nataliedemanded. Kidnapped,Daresaid,droppingthatbombshellwithgreat effect.ToTijuana.Byfleshsmugglers. Mollycouldntbelievehedjustblurteditoutlikethat.

JettgaveDareadirtylookandpushedtohisfeet.Molly sensedthatitwasntwhatDaresaidasmuchashowhesaid itthatJetttookexceptionto.He reachedNataliejustasthetearsstartedtrackingdownher face.Oh,MollyTijuana?Nataliecoveredhermouth,and then,withevenmorefeeling, Kidnapped? Calmdown,Natalie.Mollycouldntthinkofanythingelse tosay.Imokay. Soshesays,often.Daredidntlookatallhappywiththis turnofevents.Heclosedtheapartmentdoorandlockedit again. Whothehellareyou?Jettaskedhim.Herbodyguard? Dareshrugged.ImtheguywhogotheroutofMexico. MollycouldnthelpbutnotehowJettkeptacomfortingarm aroundNatalieandhow,foronce,Natalierefrainedfrom smotheringherandinsteadleaned onJett. Shegotanemailfromyou,JettsaidtoMolly.Butshe didntreallybelieveyoudwrittenit. Shehadnt,Daretoldthem. Iknewit!MoretearscameasNatalieunderstoodthe extentoftheconspiracy. Claspinghersistersshoulder,Mollytriedtoreassureher.It wasawful,Iadmitit.ButImfinenow,Iswear. Howcanyousaythat?Frowning,shetouchedMollysface. Iseebruisesonyou.SheturnedameaneyeonDare.How didshegetbruised? Kidnappersareoftencarelessthatway. NotappreciatingDaressarcasmonebit,Mollyscowledat

him,butthenforcedasmileforNatalie.Darewouldnever hurtme. No,Iwouldnt. There,yousee?Mollysmoothedhersisterswildhair. Hestheonewhorescuedme,andhesbeenkeepingme safesincethen. Andhewasprotectingherstillwhenwecamein,Jett added.Thatswhatthattacklewasallabout.Heglancedat Dare.Right? Ofcourse,MollysaidwhenDaredidnt. JettgaveNatalieasmallsqueeze.Butevennotknowing whowewere,hedidnthurtyou.Imguessingbecause yourefemale,yougottossedintothe softchairinsteadofonthehardfloor. Exactly,Mollysaid.Daredoesnthurtwomen. Thatsnotentirelytrue,honey.Alotdependsonthewoman involved. Damnhim,didhehavetoantagonizethem?Mollyflashed himanevillook.Yourenothelping. Dareshrugged. Soheresentedtheirintrusionshegotthat.Hedidnt understandtheclosenessthatsheandNatalieshared.But shewantedhersistertoknowhimas wellasshedid. ShewantedNatalietolikeDareandtounderstand everythingheddoneforher. JettwatchedDarewiththatpiercingblackgaze.Tobeable todistinguishNatalieandmeapartsoquickly,youdhaveto havespecialtraining. Youcouldsaythat.Darecontinuedhisvisualanalysisof

Jett.Whatdoyouknowofit? Jettstaredrightback.Enough,obviously. Thepissingcontestwasludicrous.Forheavenssake,itwas themiddleofthenightandtheywereallrattled.Holdingthe blankettogetheronehanded, Mollyshovedherhairawayfromherfaceandletoutahuff. Dare.Benice. BothNatalieandJettlookedatherlikeshewasnutsfor tryingtodictatetohim.Nataliewhispered,Isitwisetotalk toabodyguardthatway? Mollyrolledhereyes.Hesnotreallyabodyguard.Well,he is,Iguess.Buthesmorethanthat,too. More?Natalieasked.Jettjustraisedabrow. Givingup,MollylookedatDareforhelp.Ihavenoideahow toexplainallthis. Icanseethat.FinallyDaregaveuphisdarkandbroody mood.Ifyoudontwantmetoshooteitherofthem,thenI guesswehavealotoftalkingtodo. Hestowedthegunatthesmallofhisback. M.O.B.holster?Jettasked. MollydidntunderstanduntilDareexplainedtoher.Middle oftheback.AndthentoJett:Mygunstayswithme. IfNatalieseyesgotanywider,theydfalloutofherhead. Darewasntwearingashirt,sohecouldntpullitoverthe guntohideit.Notthatheseemedbotheredbythat. Itslate,andMollyandImisseddinner. Hearinghimsaythat,knowingwhytheydmisseddinner, madeaflushofheatgooverher.Luckilyhersisterdidnt notice;Dareheldallherattention. Afterherordeal,shesstillgettingherstrengthback,soshe

needstoeat.Butshedoesnthavealothereinthewayof groceries.Castingaccusationon Molly,headded,Thisplacehaspisspoorsecurity, especiallywithwindowsthatdontlockandthatdamned invitationtheycallafireescape. BecauseDarecurrentlylookedmorelikeahiredassassin thanadomesticatedman,Mollysaid,Daresreallygoodin thekitchen.Then,beingtruthful, sheadded,Actually,hesreallygoodateverything. Everything?Natalieasked,andshesoundedstrangled. Jettcoughed. Daresmouthliftedintheslightestofsmiles.Gladyouthink so.Noonecouldmisunderstandhislookofintimacy. Nataliedidadoubletake.AsshetookinDaressizeand physiquefromheadtotoes,herlipsparted. Lackingsubtlety,sheturnedtoMollytomouth,Oh,myGod. Jettfrownedather,thenhauledherintohisside. Daredidntmissanyofit,buthechosenottosayanything. Maybewecanorderupsomepizzaandcolastobe delivered?Thatdprobablybeeasiest. Nodeliverythistimeofnight.Jettgaveitsomethought. Thereisaquickiemartstationaroundthecornerthats opentwentyfourhours.Theyllthrowa pizzainfreshforyou. Ivehadit.Mollydidntrealizehowhungryshewasuntil theystartedtalkingaboutfood.Itsgood. Testingthewaters,JettsaidtoDare,Dontworry.Illstay herewiththewomenwhileyougo. Daredidthatstrangethingwherehelookedbiggerand strongerwithoutreallymoving.Notachance.The

quietnessofhisreplymadeitallthemore lethal. Jettssmilelookedmean.Stilldonttrustme,huh? Hell,no. NataliesharedalookwithMolly.Heseriouslydoesnttrust Jett? Dareansweredforher.Howlonghaveyouknownhim? WhenNatalieclammedup,Jetthuggedher.Thatsortof dependsonyourdefinitionofknowing. Throughherteeth,Nataliesaid,Dontyoudare,Jett.Imean it. Unsurewhatthatwasabout,butsensinghersisters embarrassment,Mollyintervened.Dare,relax.IfNatalie sayshesfine,thenhesfine. Daregaveheralook.Whenitcomestoyoursafety,Isay whenitsfine,remember? Mollybitherlip.Shehadpromisedtotrusthimonthis. JettstoodonlyafewinchesshorterthanDare,whichstillput himoversixfeettall.Broadshoulderedandlean,hehadthat samecapableaurathatDare had,butmaybewithoutDaresedge. Insulted,hemovedtostandrightinfrontofDare.Imnot leavingNatalieherewithyou.Hell,forallIknow,youcould betheonewhosetupthekidnapping. BeforeMollycouldreacttothat,Daremuttered,Hell. Resignationsharpenedhisexpression,andheloosenedhis stance.Youreacop? Surprisedbythequestion,Jetthedgedalittle.Iusedtobe. Why?

Rollinghiseyes,DaresaidtoMolly,ToldyouIdbethefirst suspect. Hedid,Mollyagreed,backinghimupandhopingthatput anendtothehostilities.Wedidntcallthepolice immediatelybecauseDaresaidhewasthe firstonetheydlookat,andtheirinvestigationmightalert therealperpetrator. Happenssometimes,Jettagreed. YoucantrustmewhenItellyouthatDareisanamazing man.HestheonlyreasonImherenow,maybetheonly reasonImalive.Mollyhopedtoget thingssmoothedoutquickly.Notonlywasshe uncomfortableinherstateofundress,butshehadntseen hersisterinwhatfeltlikeforever.Ifhehadnt alreadybeeninMexicoto Molly. ShebitherlipatDaresquietbutfirminterruption.Okay,so maybehedidntwanthertoblabhisprivatebusiness,or thatofhisfriends. Sheclearedherthroat.Omittingdetails,shesaid,Hewas thereonotherbusinessandjustsortofdecidedtorescueme whilehewasatit. ThatonlywhettedJettscuriosity.Whatkindofbusinessdid youhaveinTijuana? Thekindthatdoesntconcernyou.Daredidntbother hidinghisimpatience.So,ifyourenotstillacop,whatare youdoingnow? NotnearlyasclosemouthedasDare,Jettsaid,Security workdomesticinvestigation,mostly. Youreaprivateeye?

Thatsright.Jettextendedahand.Feelfreetocheckmy background.Iknowhowitistobecautious. Yeah?Stilllookinglikehewasmadeofstone,Dareignored hisprofferedhand.Whyisthat? Imexmilitary,exFBI.Heshrugged.Butoldhabitsdie hard,andImstillthecautioustype,too. Daredidntbudge. Makingaface,Jettpattedhisrightthigh.Gunshotinjury keepsmealittlemoregroundedthanIlike,otherwiseyou wouldnthavetakenmetothefloorso easily.Hegrinnedaftersayingit.Needmetodropmyjeans andproveit? MollywantedtosmackDareforhisbadmanners.Natalie wouldnottrustamanwhowasnttrustworthy. Ditto,Natalieagreed.SheflappedahandtowardDare.If Mollysaysthathesokay,despiteappearancestothe contrary,thenIbelieveher.Mysisteris anastutewoman.Illbesafewithhim. Fine.Acquitmeofanyintentionalinsult.Jettagainheldout hishand.Thishastostartsomewhere,so? Dareeyedhimupanddown,andfinallyacceptedJetts handshake.Aboutthatpizza? Right.Jettglancedathiswatch.Assumingyouarentgoing toleaveMollysside Dareslookansweredbetterthanwords. thenIsupposeImightaswellrunoutfortheeats.I shouldonlybehalfanhour,tops.Butsavesomeofthestory forme.IadmitImcuriousashellabout allthis. Beforehecouldgo,Mollysaid,Jett?

Thosedarkeyesfocusedonher.Hmm? Itsverynicetomeetyou. Jettflashedthebrightestsmileshedseeninquitesometime. Itworkedwonderstocounterbalancetheominouslookof thosedarkeyes. You,too,Molly.Imdamnedgladthatyourebackhome, safeandsound.ThenhewenttoNatalie,tuckedherlong, curlyhairbehindherear,kissedher andsaid,Iwontbelong. Becareful. WithanotherglanceatDare,hesaid,ForonceIdonthave tosaythesametoyou.Ihaveafeelingyoureassafeasyou canberightnow. Thesecondheleft,NataliewrappedherarmsaroundMolly inatight,nearlychokingembrace.ThankGodyourefinally home. Mollycouldfeelhersistershaking.Imsorryyouwere worried.OverNataliesshoulder,shemetDaresgaze.He watchedherwithheightenedfamiliarity. Sheshivered. Inherear,Nataliewhispered,Icantbelieveyourewith him.Whatareyouthinking? InsultedonDaresbehalf,Mollyleveredherback.Why? Lookathim!HesWhenshecaughtMollysfrown,shelet outabreathandtemperedherwording.Well,hes intimidating. Provinghehadgreathearing,Daresaid,NottoMolly. Natalieseyeswentroundagain. Mollybitbackagrin. Daresmiledather.Standingtherelikethat,hewas

intimidatingtoanyonewhowantedtohurther.Hewas alsoincrediblysexy. Mollysighed.Shewantedmore.Alotmore. Butnow,atthemostinauspicioustime,hersisterhadshown up.NeverbeforehadshebeensorrytoseeNatalie,butthis timeWell,shewouldhave preferredthatshehadtherestofthenightalonewithDare toexplorethenewdimensiontotheirrelationship. Relax,Natalie.Inagrandunderstatement,Mollysaid,Hes beenverygoodtome. Areyoutworeally?SheglancedbackatDare,whomade nopretenseofwatchingthemintently,andspunback around.Inahushedundertone,she said,Goodgrief,Molly.Hedoesntscareyou? Ofcoursenot. Buthes Hessweet,Mollyinsisted. Daresnorted.Hesstilllistening. Aggrieved,Natalieclosedhereyes. Mollyhookedhersistersarmanddraggedherfarther acrosstheroom.ImsosorrythatIcouldntcallyou,Nat. Thiswasgoingtobedifficulttoexplain. Thethingis,Idontknowwhohadmekidnapped,orwhy. Whatdoyoumean?Understandingdawned.Youthinkit wasntarandomthing?Youwereaspecifictarget! Imafraidso.UnlikeMollysthick,heavyhair,Natalies lighterhairgrewinfluffy,corkscrewcurls.Mollysmoothed downawild,waywardspiral.Youknow howmuchItrustyou. Ishouldhopeso.

Hersisterneverfailedtobackherupwhennecessary.Well, asmuchasItrustyou,Ialsoknowhowyoullreactinalmost anysituation.IfIhadtoldyou thatsomeonehadsetmeuptobetaken,thatsomeonehad deliberatelywantedmegone,youdhavegoneballistic. Well,ofcourseIwouldhave.Youremysister!Shechewed overwhatMollyhadtoldher,tryingtosortitout.Who? Whowoulddothistoyou? Shewishedshehadabetteranswer.Istillhavenoidea,and thatswhatscaresmethemost. FearnarrowedNatalieseyes.Untilyouknowwhodidit, youcantkeepitfromhappeningagain. Thatsaboutit. Obliteratinganypretenseabouttheirconversation remainingprivate,Darecameovertothem.Mollyfeared thatyoudgoonarampagetryingtofindout whowantedherhurt. Whippingaroundtoconfronthim,Nataliefoundhimclose andhadtolookwayup.Shestumbledbackastep.Icanbe reasonable. Canyou? Sheopenedhermouth,thenclosedit.Afterafewseconds, shesighed.Well,maybenot.Butyoucantexpectmeto justjustacceptthiswithoutgetting angry. DarereachedforMollyandtuckedherintohisside.Youcan beaspissedoffasyouwant.Thatsunderstandable.ButI needyoutostayoutofit,andto trustmetofindtheoneresponsible. Nataliefrownedathim,atMolly,thenbackagain.Maybe

itdhelpifyoutoldmewhatmakesyousoqualifiedforthe job. Daresearchedherface.AllyouneedtoknowisthatImnot goingtoletanyonehurtyoursister. Confused,Natalieputherhandsonherhips.Whyareyou involved?BecauseyoutwoareShewavedahand betweenthem.What?Dating? Shemadeitsoundlikethemostabsurdideaever.Tryingto gofortheeasiestexplanation,Mollysaid,Daresprotecting mebecauseImpayinghimfor hisassistance. Therewasaheavypause,andthenDareliftedherchinso thatshehadtolookathim.Withquietauthority,hestated, No,honey,yourenot. CHAPTERNINETEEN BUTwhat?Flushingoverthisunexpectedturn,Molly lookeduneasilyathersister.OfcourseIam.Dare,we agreed. Youwereinsistent,andIdidntwanttoupsetyou. Nataliechimedinwithagreement.Shedoesliketopayher ownway. Now,waitaminute.MollyjerkedfreeofDaresloosehold, and,intheprocess,shealmostlosttheblanket. Savinghermodesty,hecaughtitforher,butthenusedhis holdontheblankettohaulherclose.Hekissedtheendof hernose.Iwonttakemoneyfrom you. Shecouldntbelievethis.Sincewhen?Butsheknew,of course.

Dareletouthisbreathandaddressedhersister.Natalie, youllhavetoexcuseusforafewminutes.Mollyneedstoget dressedbeforesheflashesus both. Ahsure. BemusedbyDaresblasattitudeoverthis,Mollyheldher groundbutnotforlong.Hewasright;shedidneedtoget dressed. Tohersister,shesaidfirmly,Iwillberightback. Nataliedithered.I,ah,couldgowithyou. Notthistime.Daregaveherabarelyconciliatorysmileas hestartedthembothacrossthefloor.Wewerentexpecting you,andrightnowMollyandI haveafewthingstoworkout.Iwontkeepherlong. Heleftnoroomforargument,soNataliedirectedastern lookonhimbeforesayingtoMolly,Illberighthereifyou needmeforanything. Mollyblinkedather.NataliestillthoughtthatDaremight hurther?Heneverwould,butifhedid,Nataliesure wouldntbeabletostophim. Hersistermeantwell,andusuallyshewasthemost stubbornpersonMollyknew.ButwhenitcametoDare, Nataliewaswelloutofherleague. Overhershoulder,Mollysaidbacktohersister,Thanks,but Illbefine,Ipromise. Withoutregardtohersistersworry,Darepropelledher alongintothebedroom.Itwasveryrude,anddidntdomuch toputNatalieatease.Stepping awayfromhim,shewentthroughthedooronherown steam.

Heshutitbehindher,andMollyturnedtodemandan explanation. Beforeshegotasinglewordout,Daresmouthcoveredhers. OhWell,okay,then.Mollysubsidedandjustwentwiththe kiss. AsthetipofDarestongueproddedovertheseamofherlips, herheartstartedthumpingandherbodyhummedtolifeall overagain.Sheopenedforhim toaccepthisdeeperkiss. Dareslantedhisheadforabetterfit,andMollywantedto meltonthespot. Itmightonlyhavebeenhoursagothathemadelovewith her,butshefeltfreshdesireasanacuteneed. Dareturnedwithhertobraceherbackagainstthedoor.He tiltedinhiships,pressingthesolidriseofhiserection againstherbelly. Everynerveendingbuzzedtolifeuntilsheclungtohim,her sistertemporarilyforgotten. ShedidntrealizethattheblanketwasgoneuntilDare steppedbacktolookather.Heheldeachcornerofthe blanketinhishandsateithersideofher shoulders.Hisgazemovedfromhermouthtoherbreasts, andthenslowlydownherbody. Hisjawworked. Thisisawkward,Mollysaid.Shedneverbeenputon displaylikethisbefore. Heshookhishead.Damn,butIneedyouagain.Heput damp,openmouthedkissesonherthroat,hershoulder,and thenhesteppedaway. Mollycouldntbelieveheleftherthere,naked,whilehestill

hadhispantson.Breathinghard,feelingexposed,she consideredmakingagrabforthe blanketbutDarestoodonit. Hisgazewentalloverherlikeahotstrokebeforestopping atthejunctureofherlegs.Youlookgoodenoughtoeat.His gazemethers.Again. IahMollyshifted.Suchoutrageoussexualcompliments wereverynewtoher,andshehadnoideahowtorespond. Feelinglame,shewhispered, Thankyou. Dareranhishandslightlyfromhershouldersoverher breasts,lettinghispalmsdragoverhernowpuckered nipples.Helingeredtherejustasecond beforeslidingthemdowntoherhips.Hegavealowgrowl. Turnaround. Voicegoinghighandthin,Mollysaid,What? Usinghisholdonher,Daredirectedherarounduntilshehad herbacktohim. Mollytriedtocontrolherbreathing,butitwasnteasy.This wasbothembarrassingandhighlyerotic. God,baby,Idolovethisass.Withbothhands,hecupped hercheeks,thensteppedupcloseagaintokissthesensitive spotwhereherthroatmether shoulder. Hisattractiontoherposteriorthrilledher.WecantMy sisterisoutthere. Iknow.Hetookherwristsandliftedherarmsaboveher head,andthenpressedherpalmsflattothedoor.Justlet metouchyouforaminute. Puttingonefootbetweenhers,henudgedherlegsopen.

Mollywidenedherstance,allthewhilestrugglingwiththe conflictofneedandhernatural modesty. Slippinghishandsaroundtothefrontofher,thenuptoher breasts,hetouchedher.Withherarmsraised,herfeet bracedapart,everythinghedid seemedsomehowmoresalacious. Liftingeachbreast,Darecaressedherbeforeteasingboth nippleswithhisthumbs. Itwastoomuch.Dare Heclosedhisfingertipsaroundher,lightlypinching,tugging insistently. Mollydroppedherheadbackasthesensationwentstraight fromherbreaststoherwomb.Shebitherliptokeepfrom moaningaloud,butthedeep, throatysoundescapedanyway. Darehuggedher,warmandsoft,andthenhesteppedback. Slowly,Mollyturnedaroundtofacehimagainandwhat shesawastoundedher. Musclesclenched,nostrilsflaredandeyesburning,Dare watchedherwithsuchobviousyearningthather embarrassmentdisappeared.Neverhadshe imaginedhimsooutofcontrol. Ashereadjustedhimself,hishandsshook.Hetookanother stepawayfromher.Voiceasroughasgravel,hesaid,Youd bettergetdressedbeforeIlose it. Feelingalittlepowerfulinthisnewsituation,Mollysmiled. Letstalkaboutmoneyfirst. Hisjawhardened.Pushme,andwellbetalkingaboutiton

thebed,withmeinsideyouandtohellwithwhatyoursister hears. Whataspoilsport.Formostmenthatmighthavebeena bluff,butshehadafeelingDaresaidwhathemeant,always. Shedalreadyproventhatshe wouldntstophimifhewentthatroute,somaybeitdbe betterifshedidntpressherluck. Fine.ShehadenoughexplainingtodowithNataliewithout addingthattothedetails.Fromthepileofransackedclothes, MollydugoutaTshirt,panties andjeans. Itwasastrangethingtohaveamaninherroom,watching hereverymovewithundividedattention.Shefeltbrazen, butinanintriguingway;sherather likedhowintentlyDarewatchedher. Onceshewasdressed,herelaxedalittleandsatattheendof thebed. Comehere.Hepulledherontohislapandshiftedhertoget comfortable.Now.Letstalk. InnowaywasDareanaverageman,soMollycouldntmiss thatdefiniterisebeneathherbottom.Youstillhavean erection. Nottheleastbitembarrassed,Daregaveadismissiveshrug. Istillwantyou.Hekissedherforehead.Butweneedto ironthisout,andJettwillbeback shortly,andImwillingtobetyoursisterwillonlybepatient forsolong. Mollytriednottosquirm,butitwasnteasy.Hedgottenher aroused,andhestillworeonlyjeans.Seeinghischest,even withthefadedscarsormaybe

becauseofthemcountedasforeplayforherstarved senses.Shesawthebattlesignsasproofofallheddone,all hecoulddo,andthekindofmanhe was. Thekindwhowouldkeephersafe. Overwhatlookedlikeanoldknifeinjuryonhisshoulder, sherestedherhand.Youreaveryperceptiveman.Itstrue thatNatalieisnotknownforher patience. Daresmiled.Ilikeher,evenifhertimingsucks.Holding herchin,hebrushedhisthumbalongherjaw.Shes differentfromyou,butIalsosee similarities.Itsthereinthedarkbrowneyesandtheshape ofyourmouth. Andbigboobs. Hissmiletwitchedintoagrin.IguessInoticedthat,too. Dare.Mollyputherforeheadtohis.Shewasntsurehowto sayit,soshedecidedtosimplyspititout.Justbecausewe slepttogetherdoesntchange anything. Wrong.Formeitchangeseverything.Andbeforeweget intothistoomuch,youmightaswellknowthatImfirmon this.NowayinhellwillItakemoney fromyou. Mollycouldntbelievethathedchangedtherulesonher withouttellingher.Thatsnotfair. Hehalfsmiled.InevertoldyouIwasfair.Hesmootheda longhankofherhair,lettingthebackofhishandmoveover herbreast.Voicedropping,he said,Butyoulllearntolivewithit.

Learntolivewithit?Didhemeanlongterm?Orwasthat justafigureofspeech? Shedidntquitehavethenervetoaskhimyet.Idontwant tobeindebtedtoyou,atleastnotanymorethanIalready am. Theresnodebt.ImherebecauseIwanttobe. Whatcouldshesaytothat? Histhumbtouchedherbottomlip.Relaxandacceptit, honey.Mymindsmadeup.Actually,itwasmadeupeven beforethesex,sodontfeelguiltyabout that,okay? Emotionchokedher.Sincemeetingyou,youvemademe feelalotofthings.Butnotguilt.NotevenwhenIkickedyou inthenose. Hesmiled.Gladtohearit.So,whatdoyousaywegocheck onyoursister?Icanalmostpictureherwithhereartothe door. Throughthedoor,Nataliesaid,Damnright.Nowbringmy sisterbackouthere. JETTRETURNEDWITHthepizzasoonafterMollyfinished sharingdetailswithNatalie.ThemoreMollytoldher,the moredistressedNataliehadgotten. ShewasliterallysickwithupsetwhenJettwalkedin.Butas soonasshesawhim,shehurriedtomaskherexpression. SimilartoMolly,Nataliehadalotofpride.Helikedthat. AshedtoldMolly,helikedher.ShewaslikeMolly,butalso different. NatalieshonestreactionsleftDareconfidentthat,asMolly

hadinsisted,hersisterwouldneveracttoharmher. ThatleftonlyJettforhimtowonderaboutrightnow.Not thathereallysuspectedJett,butherefusedtotakeany chanceswithMollyssafety. Withreluctance,NataliehadadmittedthatwhilesheandJett hadknowneachotherforclosetoayear,andhadeven sharedaphysicalrelationship, theydonlyrecentlyrealizedthattheywereinlove. Thequickchangeinrelationshipcouldbeconstruedasan attempttoingratiatehimselfwithNataliesfamilynamely togetinformationaboutMolly. Itseemedmoreunlikelythanotherwise,butstill,Darewas allsettogetanswersoutofJettwhenheopenedthefront doorandlethimin. Thatis,untilJettstrodeinwithoutaword,setthefoodon thetableand,withadmirablestealth,peeredoutthecurtains tothestreetbelow. Whatsgoingon?Natalieasked,alarmed.Whatareyou doing? Jetttookinbothwomenwithcalculatedpurpose.Idont supposeyoutwowouldletthementalkinprivateforjusta minute,wouldyou? Daresnorted.HealreadyknewwhatMollywouldsaybefore shestartedobjecting. Heheldupahandtosilencethewomen.Sadly,thatdidnt work.HesupposedthathedhavetogetusedtoMollynot followinghiseveryorder,verbalor otherwise. Whilethewomencontinuedprotesting,Darewalkedoverto thewindowanddidhisownsurveillance.Hesawnothing.

Quietly,Jettsaid,Itsjustoutofview,oppositesideofthe street,lessthanablockup.Butdoesanoldwhitevanmean anythingtoyou?Mollygasped. Droppingthecurtain,Daretookinherexpressionwith sharpeyedconcern.HesaidtoJett,Rusted? Itsdarkout,butIbelieveso.Jettlookedgrim.Icouldsee thedriverandapassenger,butthebackwindowsare painted. Mollyreachedforachairanddroppedintoit.Seeingherlike thisenragedDare. Ionlyreallynoticedthembecausethevanisrunning,but theyhavetheheadlightsoff.Theyrewatchingthebuilding. Darecouldbarelycreditthatanyonewouldbethatdumb.If herfatherhadsentsomeoneafterheragain,hemustbe desperate. Anxioustocheckitoutforhimself,heheadedforthefront door. Dare,wait!Mollyboltedfromtheseattochaseafterhim. Ititcouldntbethesamepeopleasbefore. Noreasontoworryhermore.Probablynot.Daregavea hardsmileandopenedthedoor.Dontworry. Damnit,Dare!Panicked,Mollychargedafterhim.Lets justcallthepolice. Atthesametime,Jettasked,Needanyhelp? Sighingwithimpatience,DaresaidtoJett,Yeah.Keepherin here.Gotit? Helookedveryputoutwiththeenormityofthattask.Ill try. Tryingwasntgoodenough.Justmanupanddoit.Hegave Mollyonesternfrownandsaidinatonethatbrookedno

argument,Stayput. Shefoldedherarmsandglaredrightbackathim.Imnot stupid. Meaninghewas?Buthesawthefearinhereyesandknew shewasscaredforhim. Fuck. Hewentoutthedooranyway,sayingtoJett,Lockthis behindme.Facepale,Mollysteppedback,herlipsrolledin, herbodytensed.Thedoorshutand Dareheardthelockclickintoplace. Guiltpunchedathisheart. ButforChristssake,hecouldntfaltereverytimeMollybit herlips.Heknewwhathewasdoing,andifshetrustedhim atall,shewouldntbeworried. ItwouldhavehelpedifhecouldputMollyfromhismind,but thatwaslikeaskinghimselfnottobreathe.Sincetheday hedmether,shedoccupiedhis thoughtsinaseverelydistractingway. Ashedtoldhertodo,hewaslearningtolivewithit. Nowhealmostlikedit.Havingherattheforefrontofhis mindwasbecomingacomfortablething. Helikedhavingherthere. Goingdownthestepstwoatatime,Dareensuredthe hallwaysandfoyerwereempty.Givenitwasthemiddleof thenight,notanothersoulwasinsight. Peekingoutthefrontdoor,hesawthevanatthecorner, idling. Waiting. AsJetthadsaid,thevehiclewasinshadow,hiddenfromthe streetlampandthebrightmoon.

Inafewhours,thesunwouldbeupandpeoplewouldbe comingandgoing. WeretheyhopingtocatchMolly?Ormaybejusttoverifyher presenceintheapartment? Heneededtogetcloser.MaybehecouldIDthemen,or overhearsomethingimportant. Darepulledbacktothink.Ifhewentoutthroughthefront door,hedbeseen.Damnit,heshouldhaveinvestigatedthe entirebuilding.Heknewbetterthan togointoastructureblind.Buthisconcentrationhadbeen onMolly. Mostlyongettingherunderhim.Damn. Dareglancedaroundthefoyer.Almosteveryoldbuilding hadabasement,sohesearchedfortherightdoorand foundit.Luckily,itopenedinsilence. Thedankbasementwithitsconcretefloorsandwalls smelledlikemildewandheldathickchill. Hewasntabouttoturnonlights,butthemoonshining throughawindowguidedhim.Coveredinwebsanddead bugs,therustedlockonthewobbly frameofferednorealprotection.Thenarrowwindowbarely affordedenoughroomforhimtohoisthimselfupandout. Thecasingscrapedhisspine,and hisfacemetdry,brittleweedsoutside. Hebarelynoticed. Shootingtohisfeet,hecircledthebuildingandedgedout alongtheside,usingtheshadowsoftheapartmentbuilding nextdoorasconcealment.Offin thedistance,adogbarked.Coldwindrustleddryleavesand cutthroughhisthinshirt.

Sensesalert,Darelistenedforanyunnaturalsoundashe edgedcloserandclosertothestreet. Hedetectedthequietrumblingofthevansmotorandthe husheddroneofconversationinside. Certainwordsprickedhismind:daughterandpayment. Theywereincriminatingwordsthatworkedtorampuphis instinctiveprotectiveness. Withoutmakingasound,heedgedcloseruntilhecouldsee thelicenseplatesonthevan.Hecommittedthemto memory. Theringingofacellphonemadethedrivercurse.He answeredwithasharpWhat? Silence,andthen,Sheshere.No,wedidntseeher,but therearelightsoninside.Thedriverwaited,andthen,No oneisgoingtoseeus.Iknowhow toFine.Areyousure?Yeah,allright. Hedisconnectedthecallwithacurse,sayingtohis passenger,Weredoneherefortonight.Thenheputthe vaningear. TheurgetogoafterthemrippedthroughDare.Hecould reachthembeforetheypickedupspeed.Hecoulddragthe driverthroughthewindowandbeat someanswersoutofhim.Ifthereweremorethantwoof them Throughhisnose,heinhaledalong,deepbreath. Thesmartthingtodo,theunemotionalthing,wouldbeto wait.Ifhegothurt,whowouldlookafterMolly?Whowould protecther? Hehadtheplates.ItdbebettertogetholdofTraceandhave himfindoutwhathecouldabouttheownerofthevan.

Puttinghisheadbackagainstabrickwall,Dareletoutthe breathandtriedtoeasethekillingtension.Theadrenaline dumplefthimhummingwiththe needforviolence. HecouldntgobacktoMollylikethis.Thementionofthevan hadthrownherforaloop.Sheneededhimcalmandin control.Sheneededhimtocomfort her. Somehow,hewouldmanagethat.Butonewordthedriver saidkeptpoundinginhisbrain:daughter. Forherownsafety,hehadtotellMollythatherfatherwas likelytheonewhodplottedagainsther,theonewhod wantedherhurt. Darestillhadtofindoutwhy.Anduntilhedid,Mollywould neverbesatisfied. Pissedoff,moreathimselfthanthesituation,Darereentered thebuildingbythefrontdoor.Hell,anyonecouldwalkin andoutoftheplace.Andher apartmentdoorwouldntofferevenamodicumof protection,noteventothedumbestcriminal.Andthat damnedfireescape HerapartmentdooropenedrightbeforeDarereachedit.Jett stoodthere,ahalfeatenpieceofpizzainhisfreehand. Didntgoafterthem,huh? Heshookhisheadandpulledouthiscellphone.Fromthe cornerofhiseye,hesawMollysittingonthecouch.She curledinthecorner,herkneesupto herchest,herarmsaroundherself,hershouldershunched. Besideher,Nataliehovered,nodoubtofferingcomfort. DarepunchedinTracesnumberashewenttoMollyandsat

downbesideher.Thecouchdipped,andherhiprolled againsthis.Heputhisarmaround her. Sheremainedrigid,butshedgetoverit. AssoonasTraceanswered,hesaid,Sorrytowakeyou,butI needyoutorunsomeplatesforme. Lookingsuitablyimpressedoverthat,Jettwentforanother sliceofpizza.Theexcitementofthenighthadntdentedhis appetiteonebitorelsehewas usedtodanger. Thatdmakesense,becauseitwasntthedangerthat affectedDareasmuchasMollysreaction.Ifhewasntso drawntoher,hedhavegoneforthe pizza,too. TherewasthesoundofTracemoving,probablyhuntingupa penandpaper,andthenhesaid,Go. Daregavehimthenumber.Soonasyouknow,letmeknow. Andifyoucanconnectthedriverwithanyone,itdhelp. IllseewhatIcando. Thanks. Jettwatchedhim.Menoffewwords,huh? IgnoringJett,Dareclosedthephoneandputitbackinhis pocket.Thatdone,hecaughtMollyschinand,ignoringher sister,turnedherfaceupforakiss. Fromthebeginning,thathadbeentheeasiestwaytoreach her,totakeheroutofherworry. Hemeantittojustbeapeckofaffection,tothawheralittle. Butherlipswerefirmed,andhecouldfeelthetension vibratingthroughher,sohelingered, keepinghismouthonhersuntilshesoftened.

Smoothingherbottomlipwithhisthumb,heasked,You okay? Ofcourse.WhywouldntIbe? Snippy.Daregaveatightsmile.Good.Letseat. Herhandsknottedhisshirt.Imnothungry. Yeah,youare.Hestood,caughtherwristsandpulledher toherfeet,too.Butyourealsopissed.Andscared.Not eatingisntgoingtohelp,though. Hereyesreddened.Herbottomlipquivered. Ah,hell.Moresoftly,hesaid,Everythingisfine. Whathappened? YouheardmegivetheplatestoTrace.Hellcheckthemand wellgofromthere. Youyoudidnt Chatwiththem?No.Fuck,hehatedexplaininghimself. EspeciallywithNatalieandJettasafascinatedaudience. ThedrivergotacallandleftbeforeI coulddecidewhatIwantedtodo. Oh.Reliefleftherswayingonherfeet.Sheavertedher gaze. Molly. What? Itwasntlikehertobedetached.Wevegotalongdayahead ofustomorrow,soitdbebetterifyouusedthetimewehad forsomethingotherthan sulking. Thatgotherattention. Shesnappedherheadaroundtoglowerathim.Sulking? Shesoundedmean.Isthatwhatyouthink? Darenarrowedhiseyes.IthinkJettbetterstophis

goddamnedsmiling. Jettlaughedandheldupahand.Sorry. HeheardNataliemutteringtohim,andthenthetwoofthem pretendednottolisten. Mollyproppedherhandsonherhips.Seriously,Dare?She stompedtwostepscloser.Youseriouslythinkthatjust becauseyouranoutsideafter derangedkidnappers,Idsulk? Reininginhistemper,heclosedhishandsoverher shouldersandbroughthercloser.Ithinkyouwereworried aboutme,likeImsomedamngrade schoolboywithoutanounceofsenseortraining.Andyoure startingtorealizethatyourlifeisnevergoingtobethesame afterthis,andthatdfuckup anyonesday.Andifthatwasntenough,yourewishingyou wereatleastpayingme,becausethenyoudfeellikeyouhad morecontrol. Shegapedathim. Nailedit,didntI? Hertongueslickedoutoverherbottomlip.Pretty muchminustheinsults. Darehookedhisarmsaroundherwaist.Butitwas insulting,because,Molly,Imnotgoingtogethurt,Iwillget yourlifebackinorderandpayingme wouldntreallychangeanything.Somethingisgoingon betweenus,andmoneywouldntblunttheeffectofitatall. Maybeyoureright.Herfingersplayedwiththefrontofhis shirt.Shestaredathissternum.Whatkindofsomething, though? Hell,hedidntknow.Andhesureashellwasntgoingtohash

itoutrightnowwithpeoplelisteningin.Wellfigurethat outalongtheway.Hekissedher forehead.Butitgoesbothways,okay?Thatwasaboutas muchofapromiseashecouldgiveher. Idontknow.Sheletoutabreath.Ihateitthatyourein thelineofdangertryingtokeepmesafe. Funny,because,possessiveasIam,Isureashellwouldnt leaveyoursecuritytoanyotherman.HeglancedatJett. Otherthanveryshortterm. Jettsalutedhimwithacannedcola.Pieceofcake.Shesa reasonablewoman,justlikehersister. Gladtohearit.ItdidreassurehimthatMollyhadnttried todoanythingfoolish,likefollowhimout. WhenMollystayedquiet,Natalieshovedhershoulder.For Godssake,Molly,menneedreassurance,too,youknow.Put himoutofhismiseryalready, willyou? Jettlaughed.Seriously.Fromoneguytoanother,itisrather painfultowatch. Darepaidnoattentiontoeitherofthem.Molly? Shemethisgaze.Well,Impossessive,too,andIcanthelp worryingwhenyourunoutblindtofaceoffwithpeoplewe alreadyknowaredangerous. Thatwasmorelikeit.Dareturnedhertowardthetable wherethepizzawaited.Doyoubelievethatinsult,Jett? Gotyawhereithurt,didntshe? NatalieelbowedJett.Whatareyoutalkingabout?Shedidnt insulthim. Sprawlingbackinhischair,Jettsaid,Thehellshedidnt. Insinuatingthathecanthandlehimselfagainstsomethugs

toodamnedstupidnottobenoticed isadefiniteinsult.Lookattheman,Natalie.Youcanseethat heknowswhathesdoing. Dareacceptedtheaccoladewithanod. Andthenasanaside,Jettadded,Andhetookmedownwith almostnoeffort,afactthatstillsmarts.SoyoucanseewhyI choosetothinkhesthatgood, ratherthanthatIgottakensocompletelyoffguard. Idsayitwasalittleofboth,butthanksallthesame.Dare heldoutachairforMolly.IfIdwantedtogetthosebastards outofthattruck,Icouldhave,and Iwouldnthavebrokenasweat. Nataliemadeaface.Areallmensomodest? Jettgrinned.Probably. ButifIddonethat,Daresaid,therewouldhavebeena scuffle,maybegunfire,andcopswouldbecalled.Therednot onlybequestions,butwedbe tippingourhand,andwhoeverisbehindthiswouldgoto ground. Smart.Jettleanedforward,anarmonthetable.So,youre workingwithsomeonewhocanlookupplatesthateasily? DareputasliceofpizzaonaplateandsetitinfrontofMolly. Itsunfortunatethatyourehere,listeningin,butyouhave toknowthatImnotgoingtotell youjackshit. Fairenough.ToMolly,heasked,Heslegal? HergazewentfromthemassivesliceofpizzatoJett.She openedhermouth,closeditagainandshrugged.Whatever heis,Imglad,becauseIdont thinkanyoneelsewouldhavefoundmeinMexico.

Daregrinnedatheranswer.Ioperateoutsidethelawwhen necessary,butusuallywithamnesty. Huh.JettstaredatDareashemulledthatover.Gotalotof pull? Enough. Thisisalldamnedintriguing.HepulledNatalieintohislap. WhenIaskedyoutomarryme,Ihadnoideathatyour familywouldbesointeresting. Daregothisownplateready.Ifinterestingisthebest descriptionyouvegot,Ihaveafeelingyouhaventmettheir fatheryet. NatalieandMollybothwinced. Dareregrettedhiswords.Regardlessofherfatherssins, Mollyhadfeelingsfortheman.Itwasthewayofnature. Fornow,hedwithholdwhathedoverheardfromthedriver oftheFord.Shedhadenoughconfusionforonenight.Itdbe bettertotellherawayfromthe others,mayberightbeforeshereunitedwithherfather. Facetiously,Jettsaid,Ah,no,Ihaventhadthepleasureof meetingherfolks.Somethingtolookforwardto? Ifyouhaveastrongconstitution,youshouldbefine.Dare noticedthatJetthuggedNataliealittlecloser. Thatbad?heasked. Stoptryingtoscarehimoff,MollysaidtoDare.Youve onlymetmyfatheronce. Oncewasenough,butDarekeptthatthoughttohimself. HedgingthequestionheknewNataliewasabouttoask,he broughtupanewsubject.Wecant stayhere. Slumping,Mollynodded.Iknow.

Damn,buthehatedseeingherlifedisturbedthisway.She deservedheroldlifeofnaivet,wherebogeymendidnt exist.Evenifyoudidnthavecreeps hangingaroundoutside,thisplaceisntsecure. Shedidntarguewithhimaboutit.Wherewillwestay? Ihaveaguestroom,Natalieoffered. Jettgaveimmediateobjectiontothatidea.Havingherat yourplacewouldjustputyoubothinthelineoffire. CuttingoffNataliesobjection,Daresaid,Hesright. Mollytouchedhersistershand.ThelastthingIwantisto putyouindanger,too.Thisisallbadenoughasitis. DarenudgedthepizzatowardMollyagain.Sheneededto keepupherstrengthtogetthroughtheemotional shitstormahead. HewaitedforhertotakeabitebeforesayingtoNatalie, Whenwouldbeagoodtimetocatchyourfatherand stepmotherbothathome? Aroundhermouthfuloffood,Mollyasked,Why? Becauseitstimethatwepaidthemavisit.Thesoonerthe better. CHAPTERTWENTY DAREWATCHEDASMollyallbutdeflated. Itcouldnthavebeenmoreplainhowshedreadedseeingher father.Andnowonder.Shewasthesmartestwomanhed evermet,sosheprobably alreadysuspectedherfathersinvolvement. Underthetable,heclaspedherthigh.Whenhegotheralone, hedcomfortherinahundreddifferentways.Heonlyhoped thatpartofthecomfortingcould

bedoneinthenude,preferablyonasoftbed. Thinkingthatstirredhim,sohehadtopushtheeroticimage aside.Idliketoseebothofthematthesametime,if possible. Oblivioustotheundercurrent,Natalieshrugged.Onlytime tocatchthembothathomeisprettyearly.Rightafter breakfast,Dadtakesofftothegym,and Kathitakesoffforoneofhermanyscheduledthings. Bishopgoestothegymeveryday? Mollysmirked.Hispersonalappearanceisrealimportantto him. Kathiencourageshim.Shelikesitthathestaysinshape. Nataliewrinkledhernose.Thetwoofthemarereallybigon image. Mollyslumpedbackinherchair.Kathimeanswell,butshes forevertellingusthatweneedtoexercisemore. ThatinsultedJett.Thehellyousay? Natalieadded,AccordingtoKathi,weretoosoft. Weshouldtoneup,Mollychimedin,saying,becausewe jiggle. DaresharedanincredulouslookwithJett,beforerulingout suchnonsense.Ithinkitssafetosaythatmenenjoywomen whoaresoft. GettingahandfulofNataliessofthip,Jettagreed.Hell, yeah. Laughing,Nataliemovedhishandtoherwaist.Dontworry. MollyandIdonttakeittoheart.Webothlearnedlongago tojustletthecriticismsrollright off. Good.Jettcuppedherneckanddrewherfacetohis.

Becauseyoucantakemywordforityourebeautiful. Mollywatchedthemshareakiss,andshesmiledatDare.He couldalmostreadherthoughtsandseethewistfulnessin herexpression.Shewashappy forhersister,butdidshewantthesameforherself? Whenhedidntreturnhersmile,shesighedandshookher headathim,asifhewerealostcause. Wasthathowshesawhim? Rubbingthebackofhisneckdidntreallyeasehissudden tension.Whataboutyourstepmother?Yousaidshetakes offinthemorning,too?Todowhat? Mollypickedapieceofpepperonioffherpizza.Kathistays involvedinalotofstuff.Tennis,swimming,aerobicsanda wholeslewoffundraisersand publicprojects.Shestaysbusy,butshealwayssetsthingsup aroundDadsschedule. Nodding,Natalieadded,BecauseGodknowshedoesnttry toaccommodateher. Mosttimes,Mollysaid,hebarelyacknowledgesher.I dontknowwhysheputsupwithhim,ifyouwantthetruth. Iwouldnt,Nataliesaid.ButforKathi,Iguessitsa tradeoff.ShelikestheprestigeofDadswealth.Thefancy partieswiththeuppercrustofsociety. TherespectandShesearchedfortherightword. Power,Mollysupplied.Dadhasacertainlevelof authority,andtheybothknowit. Daretwistedtolookattheclockonthekitchenwall.How earlyareyoutalking? Followinghisgaze,Natalie,too,checkedtheclock.Youve

probablygotthreeandahalfhours.Theyrealwaysupbysix andoutofthehousebyseven thirty.Youcancallonthemanytimeinbetweenthatand catchthemathome.Afterthatitsaguessinggame.They bothstayberbusywithstuff. Thanks.Thatwouldgivehimsometime.HewatchedMolly takeherpizzaapart,eatingthepepperoniaheadoftherest. Shehadfemininehands, despitetheshortnails.Shelickedpizzasauceoffthetipof onefinger,andeverythinginhimclenchedinneed. Hewantedheragain,bad.SoonashegothersisterandJett outthedoor,hedworkthatout. Withthatendgoalinmind,hesentapointedlookatJett.If youredoneeating Dare.Soundingstern,Mollyadmonishedhim.Dontbeso rude. Notaproblem.Jettstood,bringingNatalietoherfeetwith him.Weshouldgetgoinganyway.AndImsureyoutwo haveplanstomake. Nataliewavered.Idontunderstandwhyyouwanttovisit DadandKathi. Yousaidityourself.Jettputanarmaroundher.Yourdad hasinfluence,soheprobablyhasconnectionsthatllassist theirinquiries.OverNatalies head,hegaveonesmallnegativeshakeatDare. BothDareandMollyunderstood:Nataliedidntneedto knowthatherfathermightbecomplicitinMollys kidnapping.Shewasinlove,lookingtowarda brightfuture.Noreasontodropablackrealityonherright now.

Iguess.Thestrainofexhaustionandworryshowedon Nataliesface.ButIreallyhatetoletyououtofmysight.Im soafraidyoulldisappearonme again. IpromisethatIwont.Mollyhuggedhersistertight.Go homeandtrytogetsomesleepnow.Imsafe,andImgoing tostaysafe. Asifshesensedhowthingswouldsoonbechanging,Natalie lingeredinthehug.Wehavesomuchtotalkabout. Iknow.ShowingthatinnerstrengththatDareadmiredso much,MollysmiledwhenNataliefinallyreleasedher.Ill callyoulater,whenIcan.Inastage whispermeanttotease,sheadded,Imdyingtohearallthe detailsaboutyourandJettswhirlwindromance. Ditto,Natalietoldher.ShegaveapointedlookatDare.I thinkyourstoryisgoingtobefarmoreriveting. Makessense,Jettsaid.Sheisawriter,afterall. Jetthadthenonchalantairofamanwhoknewhisability,so wasntthreatenedbymuch.Dareonlyhopedtheattitude waswarranted.Alljokingaside, youtwoneedtobecareful.Idontthinktheresanydirect threattoNatalie,butweknowthattheapartmentwasbeing watched,sosomeonecouldbe keepingtabsonher,too.Wecantassumeotherwise. Neverwould.JettkeptNatalieclosetohissideandpulled outhiswallet.Hefishedoutabusinesscardandhandeditto Dare.Ifanythinghappens,give meacall.Illkeepmyphoneonme.Hemethisgaze.You wanttoshareanumbersoIcanreturnthefavor? Oh,yeah,Nataliesaid.IwanttobeabletocallMolly.

Mollyshookherhead.Mypurseismissing,andmyphone wasinit. Notaproblem.Wellgetheranotherphonetoday,butuntil thenDaregotapenandpaperfromthetablethathad heldthenote.Hejotteddownhis numberandgaveittoJett.Dependingonwhathappened tomorrowwithMollysfather,theymightbeleavingstraight fromtheretoreturntohishome,and Mollywouldntgetachancetoseehersisteragainfora while. Theonlywayhedbestayingisifhebustedherfatherright offandcouldcallintheauthoritiestoputanendtothe threat. Jettlookedaroundtheapartment.Youhavethisplace lockeddown? Iriggedafewthings.Nooneisgoingtogetinwithoutme knowingit. Mollyturnedtohimwithsurprise.Whendidyoudothat? Nottouchingherwasgettingdamneddifficult.Whileyou weresleeping. Shetuckedinherchin.Imusuallyalightsleeper,butI didnthearyou. Whichonlyshowedhowsafeshefeltwithhim,andhow satedshedbeenafterherclimax.Youwerereallyout.He couldntholdbackasenseof satisfaction. Oh.Colortingedhercheeks. Thatremindsme,Ialsostackedyourmailoveronthetable. Youhavesomestuffthatlooksimportant.Ithinkfromyour publisherandmaybeyouragent.

Immediatelysheputdownhernapkinandwenttothetable tocheckitout.Nataliefollowedher. DaremotionedforJetttojoinhimaroundthecornerintothe kitchen. Nicework.Youknewshewouldntignorebusiness. Weneededaminute.Darekepthisvoicelowtokeepfrom alertingthewomen.DoyoustillhavefriendsintheFBI? Course.HowcanIhelp? Forstarters,keepNataliepinneddown.Ididntwantto rattleMollyanymorethanshealreadyis,butneitherof themshouldbeoutandaboutonherown. Alreadymadethatdecision.Jettranahandthroughhis hair.Itsnotgoingtobeeasy,though,especiallywhenshe getsbacktoteaching. Figureitout.Mollywashispriority,butashersister, Nataliegothisconcernthroughassociation. Yeah,Iwill.Heconsideredthings,butonlyforamoment. Then,withashrugofresignation,hestated,Illeitherdrive herorfollowher.Dontworryabout it. Withthatsettled,Daresaid,Mollyscar. Whataboutit? Itsbeensittingoutthereinthelotthewholetimeshewas gone,easypreyfortampering.NowayinhellamIlettingher inituntilitsbeenchecked.But itsnotsafetoleaveitthere,either. ComprehensionliftedJettschin.Ah.Youwantmetoget someonetocheckitover? Offthegrid.DaremadesureJettunderstoodthe stipulations.IdontwanttheFBIupmyassaboutthis,

gettinginmyway.Sounlessyouknowsomeone whoowesyouafavor IhaveafriendfromATF.Dontworryaboutit.Illgetit donerightaway,thenletyouknow. Perfect.Ifitsclean,haveittowedsomewheresafe,will you? Toensureitstaysthatway.Henodded.Sure,noproblem. Thanks.Dareclappedhimontheshoulder.Iappreciate thehelp. Mollysteppedbackintothekitchen,landedalookof suspiciononeachmanbutchosetoletitgo.Ineedto depositsomechecksatthebank,andIhave acontracttomailbackatthepostoffice. Allright.Darecouldntexpecthertoputherlivelihoodon hold.Withhimbyherside,afewstopsshouldbesafe enough.Wecantakecareofthatafter weleaveyourfathers. Shenoddedbutcontinuedtostudybothmen.Everything okay? Ineedyourcarkeys.Hedidntgiveherachanceto questionthat.Jettwillmoveitsomeplacesafeuntilyoure backhere. Darecouldtellthatshedidntbuythatsimplifiedversion, butshewenttoadrawerinthekitchenandwithdrewa sparekey. Thanks.Jetttookitfromherandstuffeditintohispocket. NataliehadfollowedMollyin.Sheputherhandstogether, staredupatDareandthetearfulsmilecame.Sheopenedher armsandembracedhimtight. Thankyou,Dare.Imsogladtoknowthatshessafewith

you. RelievedthatMollyatleasthadhersisterssupport,Dare returnedthehugwithgenuineaffection.AsNataliestepped awayfromhim,sheturnedherface andmouthedagaintoMolly,withevenmoreexaggeration, Oh,myGod. Darehadnoideawhathertheatricswereaboutthistime, butMollynoddedindramaticagreement. Shakinghisheadatthewomen,Jettsaid,Iftheresany news,letusknow. Iwill.Thanks. JettkissedMollyonthecheekand,finally,escortedNatalie outoftheapartment. Thesecondtheywerealone,Daressexualdesiresharpened. Hewenttothedoorandfastenedthelock,thenmovedthe chairtowedgeitunderthe knob. Seeingthat,Mollysfacetightenedwithdread.Youresure thoseguysinthevanaregone? Iwatchedthemleave.Darecameovertoher.Buteither way,Imnotgoingtoletanyonetouchyou.Youhavemy word. Asadsmileflickered.Ifanyonecanmakethatpromise,I believeyoucan. Heneededtochangethesubjecttolightenhermood.What wasallthatohmyGodbusinessfromyoursister? Genuinehumorbrightenedhersmileatouchmore.Molly pokedhimintheside.Yourhardbodyimpressedher,thats all. Howridiculous.MeaningJettisaslouch,huh?

Nowshelaughed.No,ofcoursenot.Yousawhim. Refusingtocomplimentanothermansphysicality,Darejust grunted. Mollywasntfooled.Youknowhesaprimespecimen,Dare Macintosh.Dontpretendotherwise.Sheturnedtolookout thewindow,watchinghersister andJettleavethelot.Itsjustthatyouresofarbeyond averagebuffness,notmanyguyscouldevercompare.She putahandtotheglass.Youre beyondanything,Ithink. Heknewhisownability,hadalwaysacceptedit,buther excessivepraisemadehisearshot.Yourebeingsilly,Molly. Imjustaman. No.Sheshookherhead,andDaresawhershouldersslump alittle.Youreexceptionalinsomanyways.Nataliewasjust acknowledgingittome. Darestoodbehindher,nottouchingher,butcloseenoughto feelherheatandbreatheinherscent.Keepinghishandsoff herchallengedhim.Evenafter hersisterandJettpulledoutofthelot,shestoodthere. Youokay,honey? Shenodded.Yeah,Iam.ItsjustShegaveupher supervisionfromthewindow.WhenwillIgettoseeher again? Whatshereallywantedtoknowwaswhenwouldherlifebe returnedtonormal.Sometimesbeinganhonestmansucked. Hewouldhavelikedtolieto her,topromiseheraquickresolution.Butlyingtoherwould neversitright.Idontknow,baby.ButImworkingonit. Softbreathleftherinasigh.Sheclosedhereyes,butonlyfor

asecondofgrief.Whensheopenedthemagain,the melancholyhadbeenreplacedwith acceptance.Imsorry. Dontdothat. Idontmeantobeacomplainer.Youredoingsomuch already.AndIknowitsgoingtoworkouteventually. Youarefarfromacomplainer,Molly.Shewassodamned acceptingthatitamazedhim. Iguessbeinghere,backatmyapartmentShewaveda hand,atalossfortherightwords.Ijustseesomanyloose endsthatIcantreallytieup,not whileIhavetokeeplookingovermyshoulder. Herwarmthdrewhim,soDaretrailedaknucklealongher jaw.Willyoutellyouragentorpublisherwhathappened? God,no.Withanemphaticshakeofherhead,shesaid,The fewerpeoplewhoknow,thebetterIlikeit.Ifitcomesout, thenitdoes.Iwonthidefromit orbebeashamedaboutit. Youhavenoreasontobe. Sheagreed.ButthisisoneofthosethingsthatifItellevena littleofit,peoplewillwanttoknowmore.Theyllstart diggingforeveryuglydetail.Pride stiffenedherspine.Itsprivate,andIhavenointerestin advertisingit. Daregotit.Manywouldpityheriftheyknewwhatshed endured,andsomewouldspeculateonthingsthathadnot happened.Mollywasntthetypeto acceptwrongassumptionsorexcesscompassion. Butshewasntnaive.Sheknewthetruthwouldcomeout eventually.Iguessthatsnotthekindofpublicityyouwant.

Canyouimagine?Shesteppedupagainsthimandwrapped herarmsaroundhim.Ialreadyfeelfartooexposedwithout peopletalkingaboutit. TheperfectfitofherinhisarmsstirredDaremore,butright nowwhatshewanted,whatsheneeded,wascomfort,sohe onlyheldher. Throughthewindowhesawthattheblacknighthadfaded togray.Beforelong,thesunwouldrise. Mollytippedherheadbacktoseehim.IthinkIlltakea bath. Disappointmentknottedhisguts,butnowayinhellwould heletherknowthat.Okay.Exhaustionpulledathim,but hewouldntsleep.Notyet.Notuntilhe hadhersomewheresafe.Itlldoyougoodtorelaxalittle. Goahead,andIllcleanupthemessinhere. Bothpalmsonhischest,Mollywhispered,Iwassortof hopingthatyoudjoinme. Thatcompellingofferblastedhistirednessintooblivion. Yeah? Animpishsmileteasedhim.Idontknow,though.Thetub isnthuge,shesaid.Andyoureawfullybig. Hefoughtthegrintryingtotakeover.Ifweworkonour positioning,Ithinkwellfitjustfine.Afteronequickkiss,he turnedherandplantedalightswaton thattemptingass.GogetthingsstartedwhileIputthis messaway. Shesentanindulgentlaughoverhershoulder.Chrisis right,youknow.Youareaneatfreak. ThementionofChrismadehimwonderhowhisgirlswere doing.Itwastooearlytocall,buthedcheckinwiththemon

thewaytoherfathershome. DarewatchedMollydisappeararoundthecorner,anda secondlaterheheardthewaterrunning.Primed,hemade shortworkoftheemptycolacansand pizzabox.Afterrinsingthefewdishestheydused,heput themintoherdishwasher.Other,soureddishes,hadbeenin theresinceherabduction,sohe wentaheadandranacycle. Alreadyhedseeneveryinchofherplace.Butashesurveyed itagain,hethoughtthatitcouldbenefitfromagood cleaning;itshowedtheabsenceofuse sinceshedbeengone.Iftheywerestaying,hedhelpher withthat.ButhewantedMollyasfarfromthisplaceashe couldgether,thesoonerthebetter. Aftercheckingallthewindowsagain,Darewenttofindher inthebathroom. Shedidnthearhimcomein,andheloungedagainstthe doorframe,contenttowatchher.Alreadynaked,withher shoulderlengthhairpinnedatopher head,shetestedthewaterfillingthetubandgaveDareone hellofashow. Lustcarriedhimforwarduntilhehadherwithinreach. Frombehind,hecuppedhishandoverhersexandshe jumpedinstartledsurprise,jerkingaround tofacehim. Facegoinghot,shesaid,Youarefartooquietforabigman. Daresattentionwenttoherheavybreasts.Hecuppedonein eachhand,butresolutelyheldhimselfincheck.Shewanteda bath,hedgiveherabath. Andnowthathedalreadyhadher,hedbeabletoexplore

herbodyashewantedwithoutlosingcontrol. Releasingher,hemovedtothetubandturnedoffthewater. Getin. Shebitherlips,alreadybreathingfast.Darewaited,visually exploringherripebodyuntilshegavein.Heheldherhand assheclimbedintothetuband easeddownintothewarmwater.Steamrosearoundher. Thewaterlappedatthebottomofherbreasts. Wearingonlyjeans,Darekneltdownontheoutsideofthe tub.Leanback. Ithoughtyouweregoingtogetinwithme. Iwill.After. Afterwhat? Afteryoucomeformeagain. Hereyesrounded,andshestartedtoprotest.Dareleanedin anddrewonenippleintohismouth.Sheinhaledsharply, tanglingherfingersintohishair andholdinghimclose. Dippinghishanddownintothewater,Darecuppedher innerthighandpartedherlegs.Bendyourknees,Molly.He helpedhertoleanbackashegave thatinstruction. Uncertain,shereclinedinthetubuntilmostofherbodywas submerged.Afterpartingherlegsmore,Dareliftedonefoot upandtotheoutsideofthetub, thengrowledatthesightofher.Justlikethat. I Shh.Hepickedupthesoapandbuiltupalatherinhis hands.Letmeenjoyyou. Oh,God.Sheclosedhereyesandhalfturnedherfaceaway

fromhim. Smiling,Dareusedtheslicksudstoteaseherbreasts, concentratingonherpointednipples.Slidinghisfingers aroundthem,slickingoverthem,tugging. Mollygroaned,butquicklystifledthesound. Whenherlegsstartedtotenseandclose,Darestoppedher. Hecaughtthelegclosesttohimandheldherstill.Relax, Molly.Hecouldseehersmall clitoris,nowdistended,beggingforattention.Hewantedto tasteheragain,andhewould.Soon.Yourebeautiful. Imnot.Imean,Imnotugly,Iknowthat.Iwasjustworried aboutthebruisesbefore.ButImean,Imnotfishingfor complimentsoranything.Itsjustthat Imnot Darerinsedherbreasts,removingalltheslicksoap,then againplayingwithhernipples,usingthenewfrictionto arouseherevenmore. Beneaththewater,hersmallhandscurledintotightfists. Thesleekmusclesinherthighstensed.Shedlostweight throughherordeal,andhewondered howshewouldlookwhenfullyrecovered.Wouldsheflesh outevenmorewithanothertenortwelvepounds? Leaningoverher,ahandoneachthightoensureherlegs stayedopen,heblewonhernipples.Theydrewpainfully tight,andhecouldntresistdrawingon heragain,tonguinghernipples,sucking.Hecouldspendan hourdoingjustthis,butgivenherwrigglingandpanting, Mollywouldntlastifhedid. Sheneededrelease.Now. Dippingbothhandsintothewater,Daresaid,Keep

wideopenforme,baby,okay? Asoftgroanwasheronlyreply.Dareopenedherlips, pressedonefingerintoher,andencounteredsilkyslickness. Heeasedbackfromthegripofher bodyandaddedasecondfinger. Herbackarchedasheworkedthemintoher,slidoutand pushedinagain.Withhisotherhand,heplayedwithher clitoris,softlycirclingwithhisthumb, gauginghereveryshudderingbreath,eachsmall contraction.Dare. Helookedupatherface,sawhereyessqueezedtight,her lipspartedtoaccommodateherdeep,fastbreaths.He strainedhisjeans,shewassodamn sexy. Andsoreal. Withabrokenmoan,shegrabbedhiswrist,holdinghimstill withhisfingersburiedinsideher.Watersloshedoutofthe tubasshecurledforwardand came. Damn,buthedmisjudgedhisowndiscipline.Hisearlier releasemeantnothing,notwithherlikethis,sowild,so carnal. Gasping,sheohsoslowlysettledbackagain,limp,herlegs droppedopen,herarmslax.Dareeasedhisfingersfromher andfeltherflinchwithan aftershockofsensation. Standing,heshuckedoffhisjeansandboxersand,holding hershouldersforward,steppedintothetubbehindher.With asigh,sherestedbackagainst hischest.

Heknewshewassensitivestill,buthecouldntresist coveringeachbreastwithahand.Hekissedhertempleand triedtoignorehisraginghardon. Dare? Yeah?Hesoundedhoarseeventohisownears. IveneverShewentsilent,thenstruggledtositup,to turnandfacehim.Shelookedathisbody,athiserection,and ashamelessgrinappeared, followedbyanembarrassedlaugh.IfeellikeaIdont know.Ahussy? Daregrinned.Youreahealthywoman,thankGod. Sheshookherhead.Youdontunderstand.Ifsomeone wouldhavetoldmethatIddowell,whatwejustdidId havediedofembarrassmentjust thinkingaboutit. Why?Hetoyedwithadamptendrilofhairthathungtoher shoulder.Herdewyskinlookedlustrousandsmooth,the bruisesalmostgone.Hisstomach knottedwiththeneedtotasteherallover. Becauseitsnotlikeme.Imean,Iwasntavirgin Emphatic,Dareinterruptedhertowarn,Idontwantto hearaboutyouwithothermen. Thatgaveherpause.Thenshecomplained,Iwasntgoingto giveyoudetails,forcryingoutloud. Damnright,shewasnt.HowaboutIcuttothechasehere? Hedrewherdowntohim,chesttochest,andkissedher. Withhishandsonherass,readyto exploreagain,hesaid,Youarentusedtobeingso uninhibited. Imreallynot.Shejumpedwhenhepressedafingerinto

herfrombehind.Dare. Againstherlips,hewhispered,Hmm?Shewasevenslicker now,alittleswollen,andhewantedtohearhercomeagain. Asheteasedinandoutofher, hekissedhermoredeeply,lovingthewayherbellymoved againsthisboner,howhercushionybreastsrubbedonhis chest.Scootup. Idontknowaboutthis.Butshearchedherback,driving hisfingersdeeper. Scootup,Molly.Iwanttosuckonyournipples. Shewhimpered,andhersextightenedaroundhis fingersbutshefinallydidasheasked.Bracingherhands onhisshoulders,sheleveredupand Dareclosedhismoutharoundher,suckinghard. Sheletoutadeep,vibratingmoan,rockingagainsthim, damnnearpushinghimtowardreleaseuntilshefinallycried out,climaxinghardagain. Onasigh,shewhispered,Oh,myGod,andtriedtosettle downagainsthim. Laughing,Darecaughthershouldersandsatupwithherin thetub.Baby,dontgotosleeponme. No,Iwont.Buthereyeswereslumberous,herbody utterlyboneless. Daregrabbedthesoapandwashedwhilelookingather.At halfmast,herlidslookedheavy,herlasheslong.Theheatof thebathandherorgasmshad leftherskinrosy. Andhewantedhermorethanhedeverwantedanything. Afterherinsed,heusedthesoaponher.Ignoringher disconcertedexclamations,hebathedeveryinchofher,

lingeringbetweenherlegsagainuntilhe knewhehadtostoptorturinghimselforhedloseit. Hesteppedoutofthetubtodryoff,thenhelpedherout,too. Lickingherlips,Mollystareddownathisachingerection. Shereachedoutahand,saying,Ihadwantedtospenda littlemoretimeonyou. Ah,hell.Feelinganearlyuncontrollablesurgeoflust,Dare caughtherwristjustshortofhertouchinghim.Notthis time.Hedhadher,buthehadntgotten enough.Notyet. Hewasbeginningtothinkalifetimewouldntbetime enough,notwiththisoneparticularwoman. CHAPTERTWENTYONE MOLLYWATCHEDASDaredrainedthetubandusedthe toweltodryit.Shestoodthere,achingallover,nerve endingsalive,andhewasindulginghis tickfororderliness. Hehadsuchanamazingbodythatshecouldntlookathim withoutwantinghim.Butitwassomuchmorethanthat. Evenwitheverythingthathad happenedtoher,hemadeherfeelmoreindependent, strongerandcapablethanshedrealizedpossible. Healsobroughtouthercarnalnature,soeasilyencouraging hertoalackofmodesty,atotalindulgenceintosexuality.It wasamazing. Hewasamazing. Ifhedidntcometobedwithher,rightnow,shedprobably attackhim.Barefoottappingthetilefloor,sheasked,Does mymessinessbotheryou?

Foldingthetowelandhangingitovertheshowerbar,he lookedatherthenalloverher.Youshouldseetheinside ofChrissplaceifyouwanttosee messy.AndIstilllovehim. HermouthwentdryoverthatLword.Neverhadsheknown amansocomfortablewithstatingaffection,especiallyfora friend. Mollyclearedherthroat.Well,itsjustthatyoureShe gesturedathisnakedbody.ImeanShegesturedather own.Allthiscouldbedonelater, right? YouthinkIgiveadamnifyourbathroomiscluttered?He glancedatheraskanceashepickeduptheirclothes.Im hangingonbyathreadhere.Iwas justbuyingsometimetogetmyselfundercontrol.He strodepastherintothebedroom. Oh.Mollyhustledafterhim.IguessImnotusedto guys Droppingtheclothesonthefloor,heturnedandputafinger toherlips.Again,Idontwanttohearaboutyouwithany otherman.Hetookhershoulders anddraggedherclosertohim.Noonehasevermademe feelsogoddamnedpossessive. ShestartedtosayOhagain,buthetookthewordfromher inadeep,hot,reallypossessivekiss. Hertoescurled. Withoutherrealizingit,hefreedherhairfromthetopknot, andittumbleddowntohershoulders. Hesankbothhandsintoherhair.Icantbelieveyouwere goingtocutthis.

Hismouthgrazedherthroat,herjaw.Icantbelieveit matteredtoyou. Itdoes.Hekissedherneck,thenherear. Icouldntbelieveyoutookthetimetoworkthetanglesout forme.Infact,thatmighthavebeenthemomentshe startedfallingforhim.Thetenderness aftersomuchbrutality,thematteroffactwayhedhandled herandherpersonaltrauma,haddevastatedhersenses.She hadntbeenprepared.Shestill wasnt. Ienjoyedit.Hookingaforearmunderherderriere,he liftedherandturnedwithhertothebed. Itwasinsane,howeasilyhehandledher,theeasewith whichheliftedher,carriedher.Hisstrengthcontinuedto amazeher;hiscarewouldforever impressher. Settlingintothecradleofherbody,heliftedtooneelbow andlookeddownather.Withcare,hesmoothedbackher hair,kissedherswollenlips. Mollytouchedhisface.Tearsthreatened. Whatswrong? Sheshookherhead.Thewayyoulookatmemakesmefeel pretty. Pressingahandbetweentheirbodies,hetouchedher,and hischeekbonesdarkenedwitharousedcolor.Prettydoesnt coverit. No?Shecouldbarelyspeakashepushednotone,nottwo, butthreefingersintoher.Breathless,shewhispered,Then whatdoes? Strokingin,backout.Inagain,sodeepSmokin.Hischest

expanded.Sexyassin.Hisgazewassointent,itaffected herasstronglyashistouch whenhesaid,Mine. Startled,Mollystaredathim.Shedidntknowwhattosay, howtointerpretthat.Dare? Hemovedawayfromherinarush,goingforacondomthat herolledoninrecordtime.Whenhecamebacktoher,he caughtherhipsandturnedherto herstomach.Onyourknees. Evenasshegottoherknees,herthoughtsscrambleduntil hishandsclaspedherwaistandhedroveintoherwithone hardthrust. Aftertwoclimaxes,shewasswollenandsensitiveand ohsoreadyforhim.Shecriedoutwiththatinitialentry, thencriedoutagainashebeganahard, Aftertwoclimaxes,shewasswollenandsensitiveand ohsoreadyforhim.Shecriedoutwiththatinitialentry, thencriedoutagainashebeganahard, fastrhythm.Itwassodeepthisway,shefelteveryinchof him. Archyourhipsup,hetoldherinaroughcommand.Shefelt onehandonthesmallofherback,theotherunderher,first touchinghernipples,thensliding downbetweenherlegs. Itwastoomuch.DareIcant. Yes,youcan.Justasheddonetohernipples,hecaughther clitorisandhelditwithhisfingertips.Eachofhisdeep thrustscausedhertotugathishold inamaddeningstimulation. Whenshegroaned,hesaid,Spreadyourkneesoutalittle

more,baby. Thepleasuredruggedheruntilshecouldntthink,couldonly feel.Shefeltheavy,soheavythatherarmsdidntwantto supportherandtheybentuntilshe restedonherforearms. Daregrowledalowapprovaloverthat. Anotherreleasebeganspiralingwithinher,drawingtighter andtighter.Herbodythrobbed,ripeandachingandinneed. Darestartedpumpingfaster,andsheknewhewasclose.His thighswereslappinghardagainstthebackofhers.Heat pouredoffhim,offher. Tighterandtighter. Herlungsburned.Herlegstrembled. Eyesclenched,Mollyfistedherhandsinthesheetstohang onandthereleasehither.Shecriedoutloud,sobbingwith thepowerofit,herbodyonfire. Daressavagegroanfilledherears.Hestrokeddeep, stiffened,andsheknewhewascoming,too.Hedheldon, waitedforher. Whenhestilled,sheliterallycollapsedflatonthebed.Dare landedoverherandstartedtomove,butshewhispered, Please.Notyet. Shecouldstillfeelhiminsideher,notasbignow,butshe didntwanttolosethesensationyet. Justforaminute,hewhisperedwithakisstoherear,and hewrappedhisarmsaroundher,givingherhisweight. Itfeltheavenly.Itfeltsafe. Itfeltlikelove.

MOLLYFELTTHEHANDSonher,pinching.Deliberately hurting.Shecouldntseebeyondherfear,butshecursed them,Englishcursesthatsheknew theymightnotunderstandbutgaveherstrengthallthe same. Onemanreachedforherbreastandlaughedatherpanic. Instead,hestruckherintheribs.Shelostherbreath,gagging withthepain,fallingtoher knees,knowingtheymightkickher,knowingtheground heldbugsandmudandworse.Shestruggledtostayupright, struggled,struggled Jerkingawakewithastart,Mollycriedoutand immediatelyDarecameintotheroom. Hey.Itsokay.Theoverheadlightcameon,blindingher. Thebeddippedwhenhesatdownbesideher,whenhe pulledherintohisarms. Herthroatfelttootightforhertoswallow,burningwiththe needtocry.Shewascrying.Shefeltthetearshotonher cheeksandshamebeatather. Angryatherself,atthebastardswhoddonethistoher,she triedtostruggleawayfromDare. Hetightenedhishold.Dontdothat,Molly.Iunderstand.I know.Butdontpushmeaway.Hekissedherhair,closed thoseimpossiblystrongarmsaround her. Ihatethem.Hervoicesoundedhighandbroken, infuriatinghermore.Shaminghermore. Ido,too.Shifting,hepulledherontohislap.WhenIwas younger,whenIgotthatknifewoundonmychest? Thatgotherattention,andshenoddedtolethimknowshe

waslistening. IwassopissedoffIwasblindwithit.Mostlyatmyselffor notbeingabletostopit,butatthemanwhodidit,too.It tookmeafewweekstorecover, especiallyafterIgotaninfection. Dareworeashirtnow,andshesubtlytriedtodryhereyes againstthesoftcotton. Hecaughtthesheetandliftedacornerofittoher.Doyou needatissue? No.Shesoundedstrangled,asifthoseawfulhandswere aroundherthroatagain,threateningtokillher.Sheburied herfaceagainstDare.Ignoringthe raspofhervoice,theweakness,sheasked,Whatwereyou doingwhenyougotstabbed? Thisisnttoberepeated. Shenodded. Asenatorssonwasbeingheldhostage.Iwashiredtogo gethim.Me,specifically,becausenooneknewmeyet.Iwas brandnew,testedbutnotyet tried,ifyouknowwhatImean. Hishandsmovedoverherback,upanddown,notinany waysexualbutstillpossessive. Mollygulpedbackafreshwaveoftears.Idont. Idbeentrained.EveryoneknewwhatIcoulddoin liveactiontests,butIhadntyetgoneoutinthefield.This wasmymaidenrun.AndIalmostfuckedit up. Asthenightmarefaded,shelickedherdrylips.Butyou didnt? No,thankGod.Notentirely.IfIhad,thekidwouldvedied.

TalkaboutnightmaresHeshookhisheadandsqueezed heragain.Afteradeepbreath,he continued.Theboy,whowasaroundtwelveatthetime, wasbeingheldinacompoundinArizona.Theplacewas ownedbyawealthy,supposedlylaw abidingbusinessman.Noonewouldhavethoughttolookfor thekidthere.ButIvealwayshadgoodinstincts,andI trackedhimtothatlocation. How? Youcanalmostalwaysgaugeapersonbytheirassociations. Ifamanhasenoughtieswithpeopleofquestionable character,thenIlabelhim questionable. Likemydad. Likeyourdad,heagreed. Thinkingaboutherfatheraddedtoherangst.Howdoyou thinkyoumessedup? Igottooemotional.Disgustsoundedinhistone.Thoughts ofthatkidandhowscaredhehadtobe,wonderingifhewas hurtorevenbeinghurtright then,riddledmydiscipline.Themusclesofhisface tightened,andhisvoicelowered.Evenknowingbetter,I wentintoosoon. ConcernforDaredispelledtheleftoverfearofthenightmare. Shelookedupandsawhisbeautifulface,thecleancutjaw, thestraightnoseanddeepblue eyes.Whatdidyoudo? Ifoundtheboy.Theydroughedhimupsome,deliberately terrifiedhim,buthewasbeingsodamnedmature,so strongHedidntcry.Darelooked

downather,usinghisthumbtobrushawayatear.Iwould haveunderstoodifhehad.Hiseyeswerered,andhisvoice shook.Iwassoproudofhimjust likeImproudofyou. Yousavedhim? Yeah,Igothimoutofthere,thoughnotbeforeIhadto tackleaguard.Hismouthquirked.Thesonofabitch blindsidedme,andhewasgoingtocutmy throat.Butthatscrawnylittlekidjumpedonhisback, wrappingaroundhimlikeaspidermonkey.Itslowedhim downandgavemetheadvantageI needed. Sheknew,butstillsheasked,Todowhat? Dareseyesdarkened.Ipulledthatfuckingknifeoutofmy chestandguttedthebastardwithit. DearLord.Youcoulddothat? Hedidnthitmyheartoralung,soyeah.Ithurtlikehell,but itwasntadeathblow.Herubbedhisear.Thethingis,if thekidhadntactedwhenhedid, webothwouldhavedied,andthatsinexcusable.Itwasa lessonabouttakingmytime,studyingeverythingbeforeI makeamove.Hewentsilentfora second,thenheletoutabreath.Itwasalesson,too,about myownability. Becauseyougothimandyourselfoutofthere. Hediscountedhisownheroism.God,Ibledlikeastuckpig. TwiceIalmostpassedout.Luckilymyguyswerewaiting outsidetheperimeteroftheplace, becauseImnotsureIdhavegottenmuchfartherbefore dropping.

Tuckingherheadagainsthisshoulder,Mollyhuggedhim. Imsogladyoumadeit. Yeah.Helethersitthereforawhile,notrushingher.The thingis,thatdayplaguedmeformonths.Icouldntclosemy eyeswithoutthinkingaboutallthe possibilities,allthewhatifsandwhatcouldhavebeen scenarios.Itshumannaturetoagonizeoverunsettling episodes. Howdidyoufinallygetpastit? Time.Andclosure.Hegaveherahug.AfterIhealed,I exposedeveryoneinvolvedinthatkidnapping,without puttingthekidorhisfatheroutthereforthe mediatopickapart.Knowingthosebastardswerepunished helpedmetoputitbehindmeandmoveforward. Wouldfindingtheoneresponsibleforherabduction somehowridthedregsoffearfromhermemory?God,she hopedso. MollywouldhavelikedtolingerinDaresembrace,butshe knewtheyhadtogetmoving.Shetippedherheaduptosee Dare.Howlonghaveyoubeen awake? Ididntgotosleep. Nowshefeltdoublybad.Shemovedawayfromhimand shovedherhairfromherface.ImsorryIdid. Youneededyourrest.Holdingherchin,hebentandkissed her,lightly,easily.Youthinkyoucangetreadynow?We dontwanttomissyourdad. Shedliketomisshim.Thelastpersonshewantedtoseewas herfather.Hecouldbeabrasiveatthebestoftimes,and thisWell,hewasntgoingto

addtothefestivities. Buttherealitywasthattheconfrontationhadtohappen. Sure.RealizingthatshewasnakedwhileDarewasdressed, Mollyblushed.CouldIhavesomeprivacy? Hestaredatherforalongtimebeforehismouthcurledinto agrin.Allright.Hegotupfromthebed.Idlikeyouto packabag,too.Takewhateveryou thinkyoullneed. Notsurewhattosaytothat,Mollylookedaroundherroom forinspirationandfoundnone.HowlongwillIbegone? Hegaveheranotherlingeringlook.Packenoughforafew weeks,andwellseewhathappens.Andwiththat,heleft theroom. Mollytookafewmomentstocatchherbreath,butapeekat theclocktoldhershehadtohustleifshewantedtopullit togetherintherightway.After washing,brushingherteethanddressingincasualjeans,a redsweaterandboots,shestyledherhairandappliedsome makeup.Seeingherselfinthe mirror,shefeltbetter,morelikeherself. ThensherememberedeverythingsheddonewithDare,and aflushofheatbrightenedherskin.Sheputherhandstoher cheeksandfoughtbackthe giddiness.No,shewasntlikeherselfatall,atleastnotwith Dare. Notsexually. Withhim,shealwaysfeltbetterthaneverbeforeat everything. HurryingsothatDarewouldntbewaitingonher,shegot outherbriefcasefirstandstowedwhatshecouldofher

manuscript,herflashdrive,everything shethoughtshemightneedtocontinueworkingonher book.RememberingthatbothChrisandDarehadsaidthey wantedtoreadherwork,shefounda fewofthepaperbackcopiesinherclosetandpackedthem, too.Whileinthecloset,shefoundareplacementpurseon thefloor.Althoughshedidnthave herwallet,shedfeelmorecompletewithapurseonher arm.Sheloadeditwithafewessentialslikeacomb,lipgloss, asmallmirror,mintsanything shethoughtshemightneed.Later,aftertheywenttothe bank,shedputmoneyinthere,too. ShedidnotlikebeingdependentonDareforeverything.It wasenoughthathekepthersafewithouthimpayingher way,too. Next,shedraggedhersuitcaseoutfromunderthebedand packedthetoiletriessheusedmostoften.Shespottedthe birthcontrolpills,anddecidedto getbackonthemASAP.Anywomanwhowassexuallyactive couldntbetoocareful.Andshefullyintendedtostay sexuallyactivewithDare. Aftertakingone,shepackedtherestinherpurse.Assuming shewouldntneedanydressierclothes,shefoldedinseveral pairsofjeans,sweatersand sweatshirts,underwear,bras,socks,anotherpairofshoes, hersneakersandtwosetsofpajamas. ItwasasshewasplacingthoseinthatDarelookedinonher. Hefrownedattheiceblue,verycutePJsontopofhercase. Youwontneedthose. Theyrepajamas,shetoldhim,justincasehedidntrealize.

Hesettledanincendiarygazeonher,studiedheramoment withinterestandmovedcloser.Distracted,hecontinuedto lookatherashesaid,Wellbe sleepingtogether. Shehadassumedasmuch,butwasgladtohaveitverifiedall thesame.Chris Goestohisownplaceatnight.Hetippedhishead, examiningherfeatureswithatouchofconfusion.Imthe onlyonewhowillseeyou,andyoudont haveanythingtohidefromme.Hisgazedippedtoher breasts.Ilikelookingatyou. Pleasureexpandedinsideher.Itsstillcoldoutside, especiallyintheevenings. Nowstandingrightinfrontofher,Daretouchedhisfingers tohercheek.Illkeepyouplentywarmenough. Oh,boy,didshebelievehimonthat.AroundDare,shespent mostofhertimeoverheated.Still,theremightcomeapoint whenyouwantyourprivacy No. Justthat,nothingmore.Buthesoundedprettysureaboutit. Mollytuckedinherchin.Allthesame,youmighthavetogo offonbusinessagain Iwontbeleavingyou. Exasperated,sheforgedonwithoutmissingabeat.OrI mightwantmyprivacy,soIthinkIllbringthemalong.Just incase. Forthelongesttimehewatchedher,untilaslightsmile transformedhissternexpression.Theressomethingso damnsexyaboutatakechargewoman. Thequickswitchthrewher;Darehadthestrangestwayof

interpretingthings. Hecontinuedtolookherover,hereyes,hercheeks,her mouth. Discomfitedbyhisprobingstare,shefinallysaid,What? Sorry.Heshookhishead.SeeingyouinmakeupIts surprising. Fidgeting,Mollyasked,Inagoodway,Ihope? Youlookclassy.Polished.Hebentforaquickkiss.Igot usedtoseeingyoubarefaced,butyoualwayslookgood, neverdoubtit. Didthatmeanhepreferredherwithoutmakeup?Thank you. Onething.Hisgazesharpened.Didyouspruceupforyour father,orjustbecauseyouwantedto? Mollylaughedwithdisdain.Oh,trustme,Dadwouldnt noticeifIwasbaldandpaintedblue.But,yeah,Kathicanbe critical.Shesreallyinto appearances.Beingsnatchedoffthestreetandtakenacross thecountryfortormentisnoexcusefornotlookingyour best. Dareturnedawaywithdisgust.Kathisoundslikeareal twit.Thenheindicatedheroverflowingluggage.Youdone withthis? Gladthathehadntmentionedhowmuchshedpacked, Mollynodded.ShedidntwantDaretothinkshewasmoving inortakingadvantageofhis hospitality.Butlikemostwomen,shelikedtobeprepared. Yes,thankyou. Imnotyourstepmother. Shesnorted.Anindisputablefact.

Ijustmeantthatyoudonthavetobeallproperwithme. Heclosedthelidandliftedtheheavycaseoffthebed withoutanyeffortatall.Youwanttoget yourstufftogetherforthebankandthepostoffice?Idlike tocarryeverythingtomySUVinonetrip. Likelybecausehewantedtobeathersideeverysecond. Mollyhadbeenwithhimenoughtounderstandhow seriouslyhetookhisintenttokeepher safe. Sure.Shewentintothekitchentogetaplasticgrocerybag. ShecouldnthelpbutnoticethatDarehadbeenbusy.Hed foundoneofherbiggreen plasticgarbagebagsandfilleditwitholdfoodfromthe fridgeandtheemptypizzaboxesandcolacans. Usuallysherecycled,butshecouldntseemakinganissueof itnow.Thatheddonesomuchworkinherkitchenamused herandatthesametimemade herfeellikeaslug.Handsonherhips,shetoldhim,You cleaned. Iliketokeepbusy.Hehelpedherstoreherpackagesinto thebag,andshegatheredupthecheckssheneededto deposit.Youhaveyouraccount numbers? Iknowthem.ButIdoneedtocancelmycreditcards. Shecouldseehimmakingamentallistwhenhesaid,We havealottotakecareoftoday. Ifwegotothebankbeforethepostoffice,Icangetsome money.Andmaybeonthedrivebacktohisplace,they couldstopforhertobuyanactual wallettokeepthemoneyin.Butshedbroachthatpossibility

later. Atthementionofmoney,Darestartedtosaysomething, thenwiselychangedhismind.Ifthatswhatyouwant. Thelongsufferingwayhesaidthatgaveherpause.Im perfectlycapableofpayingmyownway,youknow.IfI somehowmadeyouthinkotherwise No,itsnotthat.Iknowyourefinanciallyindependent.He noddedtowardherbookcasewhichhedalsostraightened. Thatsquiteanimpressive showing. Thebookcaseheldnotonlythebooksshelikedtoread,but manyofherowninvariousformats.Igrabbedafewcopies foryouandChris,withno obligationthatyoullhavetoreadthem. Thankyou.Heusedthesideofhishandtotipupherface. Anyonecanseethatyoureasuccessfulwoman.Itsjustthat Idontwantyoutohavetoworry aboutfinancialstuffrightnow. Illfeelbetterhavingmyownmoneywithme. Herubbedahandoverhismouth,consideredwhatshed saidandthengaveinwithanod.Yeah,IknowIdfeelthe same.Hecuppedthebackofher neckandkissedher.Anythingelse? Thewayheconstantlykissedherandtouchedherwaslikea balmtoherabusedspirit.Anditgaveherhopethather affectionwasreturned. Molly? Sheshookoffthewarmthofhisattention.IsitallrightifI callmyagentandeditor,too?Shedalwaysbeen conscientiousaboutherwork,andwondering

whattheyboththoughtplaguedher.Ireallyneedtogetin touchwiththem.ImsuretheyreconfusedastowhyIjust disappeared. Howaboutafterweleaveyourdads? Thatllwork.Itstooearlyrightnowanyway.Withallthe arrangementsmade,Daregatheredupeverythingtheyhad totakeout.Mollyturnedoffthelights, andtheylefttheapartment. WITHEACHPASSINGmile,Mollysdreadgrewuntilfinally theypulledintoherfathersestate.Anxietykeptherchewing herlip,untilDaresqueezedher thigh. Relax,willyou? Itamazedherthathepaidalmostnoattentiontoherfathers obviouswealth.Butthen,shedidnt,either.Forher,the massiveestaterepresentedonly sadness. Toher,Dareshomewasfarmoremagnificentandwas abouthalfthesizeofherfathers. Shedgrownupknowingwhatmaterialthingsmeanttoher dadandhowskewedhisprioritieswere.BishopAlexander woulddojustaboutanythingto maintainhiswealth. Darewasntlikethatatall.Hewasamanofsubstance,aman whohadamassedwealth,butnotattheexpenseofothers. Justtheopposite. WhenAdrianfirstsawthis,shesaid,indicatingthevast Europeanstylehomeaheadofthemdownthelongdrive,I

swearhealmostdrooled. Daretookoffhismirroredsunglassesandleanedforwardto lookoutthewindshieldasheslowed.Butitwasntwithawe. Thesecurityislacking.Anyonewhocanaffordahomethat sizeshouldhaveagatedandmonitoredentry. Mollyshrugged.Therearesensorsaroundthegrounds.But deercomethroughhere,alongwithalotofotherwildlife, andtheywereforeversettingoff alarms.Dadgaveupyearsagoandhiredpeopletokeepan eyeontheplaceinsteadoftechnology. Hekeepsguardsonstaff? Youcouldcallthemthat.NatalieandIalwayscalledthem sentries.Shegrinned.Theresalwaysonearoundback,one aroundfront,inrotatingshifts. Shewrinkledhernose.Theyactreallycold,andtheyre goodatmeanmuggingeveryone.Nosmilingorchitchat.I dontlikethemmuch. Whataboutyourstepmother?Shelikesthem? KathiisfinewithanythingDadwants.Herbiggestgoalin lifeistokeephimhappy.Astheynearedthehouse,shesaw thefrontguardstepoutandtalk intoawalkietalkietypedevice.Soostentatious. Howmanyroomsdoestheplacehave? SeeingDareinanalyticalmodealwaysimpressedher.He didntaskoutofmerecuriosity,butrathertogetasenseof thelayout.Sixbedrooms,seven andahalfbaths. Whatelse? Hmm.Shethoughtaboutitforasecond,tryingtothink whatmightbeimportanttoDare.Fivesittingrooms.Five

garagebays.Alibraryandagallery. Kitchenandbreakfastroom,ofcourse,andacovered, outdoorsalon. Masterbedroomupstairsordown?Isthebasement finished? Theresamasterupanddown,butunlesstheyvechanged it,DadandKathisbedroomisonthemainfloor.Theyhavea winecellardownstairs,and Dadhasaworkarea,likewithtoolsandstuff,thatheseldom uses.Notmuchelse. TheguardhadcomedownthestairstoawaitDare.Hedidnt lookhappy. Cometothat,Daredidnt,either. Doyouknowhim? Iveseenhimbefore.IthinkhisnameisGeorgeWallace,but Imnotcertain,Mollywhispered.ItsbeenawhilesinceI visited. Daregotoutand,ignoringthearmedman,camearoundto Mollysdoor.Hehelpedheroutandthenlockedhiscarwith theclickofaremote. Themancametostandinfrontofthem,deliberately blockingthem.Areyouexpected? MollystartedtostepinfrontofDare,buthestoppedher. George? Theguardsexpressionwentflinty.DoIknowyou? TellBishopImhere.Andyoumightwanttotellhimthat Imcominginhestaredintothemanseyesoneway oranother.Howmuchruckusis causedisuptohim. Keepinghisstonyexpression,Georgeasked,Andyouare?

Daregavethateerie,meansmileofhis.Hellknow. ThesentrylookedbeyondDaretoMolly.Youreoneofthe daughters? Dareansweredforher.Shesnoneofyourdamned business. Greeneyesnarrowing,themanbacksteppedafewfeet awayandputinacall.Alightbreezeruffledhisdarkhair;he woreastarkwhitedressshirtand tie,withhisbeltholsterexposed.Thoughhespoketoosoftly forMollytohear,shehadagutfeelingthatnothinggotby Dare. Afteraminute,themanstowedhisphoneandapproached again.Youcangouptothefrontdoor.Someonewillletyou in. Unnervedbyallthetensionandmorethanreadytoescape it,Mollystartedforward.AgainDarestoppedher.Heandthe mandidmorestaring,and althoughnowordswereexchanged,theguardmusthave understood,becauseafteronelaconicnod,heprecededDare tothefrontdoor,rangthebell andthensteppedtotheside,whereDarecouldstillseehim. Underherbreath,Mollyasked,Youdidnttrusthim? Atmyback?Hell,no. AyoungHispanicgirlinapaleblueuniformansweredthe doorandgesturedthemintothecavernoustwostoryfoyer. Asthegirlmovedawayagain,Dare madenoteofeverydooraroundthem.Hadhepackedhis gun?Hisknife?Shepeekedatthesmallofhisbackandsaw thatnowfamiliarbulgebeneath hisshirt.

Strangely,knowinghewasarmedmadehermoreatease. Hecaughthergazeandeasilyinterpretedherthoughts, becausehetoldher,Withaweaponorwithout,nooneis goingtohurtyouaslongasyourewith me.Youhavemypromiseonthat. Hespokewithsomuchconfidence,Mollybelievedhim.He wouldprotectherfromphysicalharm.Sadly,withher father,itwasmoretheverbalabusethat shedreaded,andtheredbenothingDarecoulddoabout that. CHAPTERTWENTYTWO HERFATHERWASNTtheonetogreetthem.Kathicame aroundthecorner,heelsclickingonthefloor,herfacefullof smiles.Herchinlength,wavy brownhairdancedaroundherfaceinaprecisestylethat somehowmanagedtolookcasual.Sheworedarkdesigner jeans,pointytoedanklebootsand acozycashmeresweater. Molly!Imusthavemissedyourcall.ImafraidIwasnt expectingyou. ThemildrebukedidntfazeMolly;shewasusedtoit, whethershedmadeanappointmenttoseeherfatherornot. Therewasnttimetocall. Kathiembracedher,kissedtheairnearhercheekandthen heldherback.My,my,my.ShetouchedMollyshair.It lookslikeyouhaventseentheinside ofasaloninforever. Ithasbeenawhile. Kathismiledand,asifsheknewnothingofthekidnapping,

said,Iknowhowyouare.Youstartwriting,andyouforget everythingelse.Haveyoulost weight?Thatsgood,Isuppose,butnotifyouvedoneit improperly. AcutelyawareofDarebesideher,Mollywantedtogroan.A fewpounds,yes.Beingstarvedoftenhadthateffect. DidKathitrulynotknowofherkidnapping?Itwouldntbe beyondherfathernottosharethatnews.Butsomehow, Mollythoughtsheknew,andthatmade herinanechatterallthemoreannoying. Youhavethedarkestshadowsunderyoureyes,too. Appearingconcerned,Kathistudiedherface.Arentyou gettingenoughsleep? Isleepfine.Now.SincecrawlingintoDaresbed,shed founditeasytorelaxandcatchuponhersleep.Thoseare bruises. Kathilookedmoreclosely,andshetsked.Oh,dear.What haveyoudonetoyourself?Youalwayswereaccidentprone. Ivetoldyouthatyogawouldgive youaddedgraceifonlyyoud Feelingtheflushinherface,shecutoffKathisridiculous banterandgesturedtowardDare.Kathi,thisisDare Macintosh.Dare,mystepmother,Kathi BerryAlexander. HavingpaidnoattentiontoDareuntilhewasformally acknowledgedbyMolly,Kathilookedupathim.Fingers splayedoverherthroat,shewhispered, Oh,my. Daresaidnothing. Kathiheldoutadelicate,wellmanicuredhand.Mr.

Macintosh,howverynicetomeetyou.Youreafriendof Mollys? Daredidntmissabeat.HeheldKathishandforthebriefest ofgreetingsthatbarelypassedforpoliteandsaidonly,Mrs. Alexander. BerryAlexander.Nonplussedbyhislackofaresponseto herdirectandsocialquestion,Kathifiddledwiththeendof herhair.Yes,wellImsorrythat wereillpreparedforguests.Iwasjustfinishingbreakfast andwasonmywayoutthedoor.Werebreakinggroundon anewyouthcommunitybuilding today. Andthatexplainedthejeans,Mollythought.Notthatanyone wouldmistakeKathisclothingasappropriatefor dirtdigging. Wewontholdyouup.AsifMollywerentwithhim,Dare said,ImheretoseeBishop. Kathisstrainedsmilewouldnthavefooledanyone.Imso sorry.ShelookedtoMolly.Ofcoursehedliketoseeyou, youknowthat.Itsbeenforever sinceyouvisited.Sheletoutabreathandlookedbackto Dare.ButImafraidmyhusbandisrushed,aswell.Hehas animportantbusinessmeetingthis morning. Mollywantedtogroan.Sheneededthiswhateverit wasoverwith. TellhimImhere.DarestareddownatKathi.Hellmake timeforme. Oh.Kathipursedhermouth.Hesacquaintedwithyou? Darewaited,againnotanswering.Hisblatantdisregardfor

hernosinessleftMollydesperatetofillinthesilence,butshe foughtofftheurge. Kathiputherhandstogether.Shetried,butshedidnthave thesamelethalqualitiesthatDarepossessed.Yes,Kathi finallymurmured.Letmeaskhim whathedliketodo. Sheturnedand,inregalfashion,exitedtheroom. MollydidntrealizeshewasholdingherbreathuntilDare putahandbetweenhershoulderblades.Breathe,honey. Sheinhaledwithagasp.Oh,myGod,thatwaspainfully awkward. Darejustshrugged.Ifyouthoughtso,thengirdyourself, becauseIhearBishopapproaching,andgiventheweightof hisstompingfootsteps,itsaboutto getworse. NowthatDaresaidit,shenoticedthedifferenceinher fathersusualmeteredapproach,too.Hecamearoundthe corner,buthewasntalone.Hehad oneoftheguards,andKathi,withhim. ForonlyasecondhisconcernedgazeroamedoverMolly, takingherinfromheadtotoes.Somethingtightenedinhis faceconcernforadaughterwho hadsurvivedakidnappingandseveretreatmentatthe handsofgoons?Mollyjustdidntknow.Oftenherfatherhad beencold,butthen,shedneverhad herlifethreatenedbefore. Seeingthatshewaswhole,Bishopquicklyfocusedallhis attentiononDare,amoredeservingadversary. ResentmentbroughtthewordstoMollysmouth.Hello, Father.

Allthreeofthemglancedherway.Together,theymadea potenttriumvirateofanimosity. Darelaughedovertheirunitedfront.ShouldIconsiderthis yourideaofbackup? Theguarddidntlikethat.Hislefteyetwitched,andhemade apointofshowinghisgun. Softly,Daretaunted,Tryit.Withoutbreakingeyecontact, hesaid,IguaranteeBishopwillgetthefirstbullet. Kathimadesoundsofalarm,herhandatherthroat,hergaze goingeverywhere. Bishopdidntmove. Finally,theguarddisengagedfromhischallenge.Itwasan amazingthingforMollytosee,butthen,shedknownall alongthatDarehadthatintimidating effectonpeople. Expressionsevere,herfatherstartedtospeak,andDare silencedhimwithalook. Youwantthisaired,Bishop,finebyme.Letsopenthe windowsandmakesurethewholestaffhears.ButIhad assumedyoudwantsomeprivacy givenyouroverridingconcernforkeepingthingsquiet. Impotentwithrage,facedistortedwithdispleasure,Bishop dismissedtheguardwitharaiseofhishand. Theguardhesitated.ShouldIstayinside,sir? Heshookhishead,andinabidforprivacy,said,Takethe restofthedayoff. Itwasclearthattheguardwantedtoargue,butdidntdare. Ashestartedaway,Kathifrowned,movedwithhimand spokequietlybeforereturningtostandatherhusbands side.

BishopsgazeshiftedtoMollyagain.Youreback. Yes. Hehesitated,strugglingwithhimself,butfinallyasked, Unharmed? Kathihuggedhisarm.Sheswell,Bishop,asyoucansee. Annoyanceshowing,herfathercontinuedtowatchher.She canspeakforherself. Yes,Mollysaid.ThankstoDare,Imokay. Henodded.ToMolly,healmostlookedrelieved. Butnowthattheguardwasoutofrange,hesaidlow,Icant believeyoucamehere,Molly.Whatwereyouthinking? Darespokeup.Ibroughther. Bishoplookedatthembothwithdisdain,butagaingavehis attentiontoMolly.Doyouhavenoshame? Mollydidwhatshedalwaysdonewhenfacedwithher fathersloathing.Shesquaredhershouldersanddonnedan airofnonchalance.Ihavenoreason tobeashamed. ThatsnotHeinhaleddeeply,lookedawayandthenback again.Youllbringascandaldownonallofus. Mollycurledherlip.Andthatswhatmattersmosttoyou, right? Whatthehellareyousaying?FreeinghimselffromKathis hold,Bishoptookasteptowardher.Beforeshecouldblink, Darewasinfrontofher.He didntdrawagun,buthedidtakeouthisphone. Youwanttobeanass,Bishop,fine.ImsuretheFBIwillbe interestedininvestigatingMollysabductionintoMexicoand yourprobableroleinitall. Kathireactedtheatrically.Mexico?

Bishopcursedashepulledherback,signalingthathe wantedhersilence. No.Insidehisfancysuit,herfatherbunchedandshifted and,knowinghimasshedid,probablyworkedupasweat. No,goddamnit,Idonotwantthe lawinvolvedinthis.NotbecauseIhaveanyinvolvement,but because Itsbadpublicity.Yeah,Igetit.Dareshuthisphone,and tookastepforwardtotoweroverherfather.Insulther again,givehersomuchasadirtylook, andIllmakethecallwiththesolepurposeofruiningyou. Understandme? Howdareyou?Kathiwhispered,soundingtrulyenraged. Youcant Fine.BishopinchedbackfromDaresquiet,controlled anger.ToKathi,heordered,Getsomecoffee.Bringittothe library. Kathitouchedhisarm.Bishop,Idontknowaboutthis.I dontknowabouthim.ShelookedatDaresonoonewould misunderstand. Illbefine.Heshruggedoffherhandandstormedahead, sayingtoDare,Comeonthen.Letsgetthisoverwith. DareslippedanarmaroundMolly.Nearherear,heasked quietly,Youholdingonokay? Shenoddedwithillhumor.Typicaldaywithmydad.But sheknewthiswasnttypicalatall.Herfatherdidntloveher. Hedneverlovedher.Forhim,she wasaninconveniencethathedbeensaddledwith,a daughterthatforeverdisappointedhim. Butnowshehadtoacceptthathemighthavehadher

kidnappedratherthancontinuetosufferher. Herheartdidntbreak,becauselongagoherhearthad acceptedthatherfatherwouldnevercare.Butshedidfeel shamebonedeepshameforDare toseehowlittleshematteredtohim. Theysteppedintothelargemahoganylibrary.Itsmelledof lemonsandleatherandbooks.Lotsandlotsofbooks.Asa child,Mollyhadbeenforbidden entrancetothisroom,whichhadofcoursemadeitallthe moredesirable. Herloveofstorytellinghadbegunwhiledisobeyingher fatherandraidinghismostcherishedroom. Dareshandfoundhers.Helacedhisfingersthroughher own,gaveheragentlesqueeze.Sheglancedupathim,and therewassomuchwarmthinhis gaze,somuchacceptanceand,oddly,admiration. Andthen,rightthereinfrontofherfather,Darebenttokiss her.Mollyknewwhathedid,andwhy:hewantedherfather tounderstand,withoutasingle doubt,thatforDareshewasapriority. Howherfatherwouldtakethatnewswaslefttobeseen. DARESATBACKONtheleathercouch,hislegsstretchedout andrelaxed,onearmonthebackofthecouchbehindMolly. Hehatedputtingherthrough this,butalreadyhedlearnedalot. Kathiwasntwhathedexpected.Otherthanherdamn mouththatcouldcutwithsugarysweetness,sheseemedsoft andcomfortable,notatalltherigid,

uptight,perfectlycoifedwomanhedexpected. Didntmeanshewasntabitch.Shewas. AnditdidntmeanhedcutBishopanyslack,eventhoughhis wifewasntthetrophyDarehadassumedshewouldbe. ButmaybeifhedalreadymisjudgedKathi,hedmadeother misjudgments,aswell.Hedhavetothinkaboutthatand strivetokeepanopenmind. Oneverything,andeveryone. Bishophadtakenrefugebehindamassivedeskwherehe heldhispeacewhileKathipouredfragrant,gourmetcoffee intochinacupsrestingonsaucers. BothheandMollydeclinedthedrink.NotthatDarewould haveletherconsumeanythingofferedbythesepeople.They werentbeyondpoisoning. Thedeviceonhiskeychainbuzzed,andDarelifteditout. Afteraglanceatit,hesaidtoBishop,Instructyourmento stayoutofmycar. Bishopharrumphed.Idontknowwhatyouretalking about. ThenyouredumberthanIassumed.Dareheldupthe deviceforhimtosee.Someoneistryingtogetintotheback ofmySUV.Ifitsnotunderyour order,thenImfreetokillthebastardforhisdaring.He madetorise. Nearlychokingonhisanger,BishopwavedDarebacktohis seatandthenspokequietlytoKathi. Shenoddedandlefttheroom. DarenoticedthatKathihadntblinkedaneyeoverhis statementthathemightkill.Wassheusedtosuchthings? FromBishopandhiscohorts?

DisbeliefbroughtMollyforwardonherseat.Dad,really? YouhadsomeonebreakintoDarescar?Anddontplay innocent.Nothinghappensherewithout yourconsent. Lackingremorse,Bishopshrugged.Imsureyourguardian understandscaution. Mollywasntappeased.Iunderstandaninvasionof privacy! DareputahandonherthighsomethingthatBishopdidnt missandMollysubsided. ThatBishopnowunderstoodtheintimacyoftheir involvementsuitedDare.Hewantedherfathertoknowthat ineveryway,Darehadastakeinkeeping hersafe.Unlesshereallywasanidiot,Bishopwould understandthatanemotionallyinvolvedmanwouldbefar morelethalthansomeoneonlyinterested infinancialremuneration. Iunderstandprecaution,too,Bishop.Theresnowayinhell youregoingtocatchmeoffguard,soyoumightaswellgive itarest.Darewatchedhim closelyashesippedhiscoffee.Butthen,youdidntgetthe messagethelasttimewespoke,didyou? Kathireenteredtheroomandwenttositinanornate armchairatthesideofherhusbandsdesk.Likea welltrainedlapdog,shelookedpreparedtowait insilenceuntilherhusbandneededsomethingfromher. Bishopsethiscupasidewithaclatter.Whatareyoutalking about? YouhadMollysapartmentransacked.Tellme,whatwere youlookingfor?

ThehellIdid! Youtossedtheplace.Inhisperipheralvision,Daresaw Kathilookdownatherhands.Interesting.Hedidntwantto lookatherdirectly,buteven indirectlyhesawthatsheknewsomething. Wasitguiltoverherhusbandsinvolvement?HadBishop actuallytoldherofwhatheplanned?Hadheinvolvedher? Furious,Bishopleanedforward.Ididnothingofthekind. Itwasntdestructionmeantasathreat.Youwanted something.Tellmewhatyouwerelookingfor. Hisfistslammeddownonthedesk,causingKathitojump. ImtellingyouthatIdidntgoanywherenearherdamned apartment. Conversely,Darekepthistonemild.Maybenotpersonally. Butyousentsomeone. Ididnt!Emphaticandinsulted,hebracedbothhandson thedeskandrosetohisfeet.Yes,Itoldaprivate investigatorthatsassistedmeinthepast aboutyourvisit.ButIdidntsendanyonetoMollys apartment. Itoldyounottospeakofittoanyone. Youhadmydaughter!Bishopshouted.Youtoldmeshed beenkidnapped.IhadarighttofindoutwhatIcouldabout you. Darealmostbelievedhim.Hisreactionswerehonest umbrage,notsubterfuge. TheideaofhimtryingtodigintohispastmadeDaresmile. Cameupblank,didntyou? BishopswitchedtacticsandappealedtoMolly.Whatdoyou reallyknowaboutthisman?Haveyoucheckedintohispast?

Doyouknowwhathesdone, whathescapableofdoing?Howsafedoyouthinkyouare whileunderhiscontrol? Hedoesntcontrolme.Imwithhimbecauseitsthesafest placeformetoberightnow. ThatstruckDare.Wassafetyheronlyreasonforbeingwith him?No,hedidntbelievethatbutitsoundedviabletotell herfather. Heshadhishandsalloveryou!Bishopaccused.Hes sleepingwithyouforyourmoney,andyouredesperate enough Bishop.ThesoftlyspokenremindercutthroughBishops raisedvoice.Darewantedareasontotakethebastardapart. ButhedpreferthatitnotbeinfrontofMolly. Panting,herfatherretrenched,takinghisseatinaformal displaythatleftKathitwitchingbesidehim. Lower,hemumbled,Hesaftermymoney,Molly.Cantyou seethat? Mollyshookherhead.Yourepaintinghimwithyourown attributes,Dad.Dareisntlikethat.Andinfact,heswealthy inhisownright.Hedoesntneed yourmoney,andhewonttakemine.Soundingsour,she added,Ivetriedtopayhim,andhewontletme. Kathilickedherlipsandjoinedthefray.Molly,honey,you haventshownthebestjudgmentinthepast.Adrianisa perfectexample. MollyturnedonKathiwithdisbelief.ButyouandDad wantedmetomarryAdrian!Haveyouforgottenthat? Hewastheonlyprospect,andyouwerealreadyinvolved withhim.Andatleasthehadsomebreeding.Sheglancedat

Dareandclearedherthroat. Perhapsifyouhadtakenouradvicejustthatonetime,we wouldntbeherenow,dealingwiththisnewsituationof yours. Shesright,Bishopsaid.YourefusedAdriansattention andthenwentandgotyourselfkidnappedandGodknows whatelse. Icantbelievethis.MollyshottoherfeetbeforeDarecould getholdofher.Shechargedtowardherfather,finger pointed.Hewasauser!Adrianonly supportedmycareeroncehesawIwasmakinggoodmoney. Yourerightheprobablywantedyourmoney,too.The poorfooldidntrealizethatyoud disownedNatalieandmeagesago. Youarentdisowned,Kathiquietlysaidwitha disapprovingfrown.Youknowyourfatheronlywantedto ensurethatyoureachedyourownpotentialrather thanrelyingonhisaccomplishmentsforyourhappiness.He wantedyoutobeindependent.Heisawonderfulfather. GoodGod,Darethought.Didthetwitreallybelievethat nonsense? Mollysnorted.Andthentoherdad,shesaid,Fortherecord, Ididntgetmyselfkidnapped.Someoneelsearrangedthat forme. Whoevertookyoumusthavehadareason.Kathimovedto putasupportinghandonBishopsshoulder.Andnowyou wantpoorBishoptobailyouout ofthispredicament. Ha!Mollysscorncrackedlikeawhipinthequietlibrary. Fatchance,Kathi,becauseIwouldnevertakeanythingfrom

him. BishopheldupahandtoquietanyrebuttalfromKathi. Thenwhatareyoudoinghere?Hejoinedthewomenon theirfeet.Ifhesnotaftersomesortof payoff,whatdothetwoofyouwant? Darelookedfromonepersontothenext,andhesighed.So, weretodothisstanding,huh?Heshookhisheadandrose fromthecouch. Withdrawingtwophotos,Darewenttothedeskandlaid themdown,thenslidthemaroundforBishoptosee.Youre friendswithEdWarwickandMark Sagan. Confused,Bishopshookhishead.Friends?No.Were associates.Wevedonebusinesstogetheronoccasion.What ofit?Theyrereputablemen. Saganisawhiteseparatist. Nonsense.Genuinelyperturbed,Bishophuffedand staredatthosephotos.Youcantprovethat. Wannabet?Darepointedtotheotherphoto.Warwick wasbustedonslidingillegalimmigrantsthroughthesystem togetthemreadytovotefora senatorthatyoubacked,likelyinexchangeforfavors. Throughhisteeth,Bishopsaid,Warwickwasclearedof that. Notevenclose.Hewasneverprosecuted,no,butnot becausehewasinnocent.YourgoodbuddySagantookcare oftheevidence.Adeadbodyhasa wayofspookinganyoneelsewhomightwanttotestify againsthisclient. Thatmandiedinahitandrun!

Ah,soBishopknewofallthat.Ofcoursehedid.Dareshook hisheadinloathing.Saganhasplentyofmuscletogo around.Hestagedthathitandrun, andyouknowit.DareshovedthephotosclosertoBishop. Thepeoplehopingtoemigrateherewerecheatedofa chanceatabetterlifebecauseof Warwicksbullshit.Theywereallsenthomewiththeir papersrevoked.WarwickandSaganhavehurtmorepeople thanyouandIcancount. Mullingthatover,Bishopshookhishead.Itsnotlikethat. Theyvesharedinsidetipsonproperty.Arestaurant,a hotelThatsall. Propertiesthatyouboughtundermarketvalue? Heshrugged.Theyweregooddealsforme,andtheyve provenlucrative.Istayintouchwithmanydifferentpeople forjustsuchbusinessadvantages. Soundingmoresubdued,heagaininsisted,Allofthemare onlyassociates. Darewasntbuyingit,notforasecond.Lietoyourselfifyou want,butyoucantfobthatstoryoffonme.Hepointeda fingeratthephotoswhereBishop andKathiweresocializingwiththemen,welloutsideof business.Amanwholieswithdogsalwaysendsupwith fleas. Chinup,BishopskeweredDarewithahatefilledlook.So Imguiltybyassociation? Damnright.Whatsreallytelling,though,Darecontinued, isthatyourfriendshipwiththosefucksgivesyou opportunity. Appearingill,Kathisankbackintoherseat.

Showinguncharacteristicdiscomposure,Bishopdemanded, Opportunityforwhat? DaredrewMollyclosertohim.Tohaveyourdaughter kidnappedandsmuggledintoTijuana. Withvisibleeffort,Bishopdrewhimselftogether.Whythe hellwouldIwanttodothat?Shesmydaughter. Facepaling,Kathilookedbetweenthetwomen.Its incomprehensiblethatBishopwoulddosuchathing.She glaredatMolly.Icantcreditthis.Youlittle fool.Youwoulddaretoaccuseyourfather? Daresaid,Imaccusinghim. Thenyougotoofar.Angrycolortingedhercheeksand madehereyesglassy.Bishopisahighlyrespected businessman,aniconinsociety!Heis abovereproach. Yeah,right.Daredidntbotherhidinghiscontempt.Hesa socialclimberwhoenjoysleisuretimewiththe bottomfeedersaslongastheyhave somethingofinteresttogivetohim. Kathistiffened.Youmakehimsoundlikeaan opportunist! Deadon.Andthen,tiringofthegame,Daresaid,Faceup tothereallife,willyou?Yourhusbandspendshistimewith awhiteseparatistwhosportsa laundrylistofcriminalactivity,nottheleastofwhichis murder.Saganistheworstkindofphony.Hesfesteringon theinside,thenactslikehecanhideit beneaththesuitsandtieshealwayswears. NodoubthopingtodisproveDaresclaim,Kathishookher head.Thatsnottrue.Markdoesntalwayswearasuit.

Sometimesheplaystennis,andhe swims Inwideeyedincredulity,Bishopswungaroundtostareat Kathi.Shutup. Breathinghard,Kathifrownedathim. Imeanit.Helookedatherasifshehadtwoheads,asif hedneverreallyseenherbefore.Finallyheturnedbackto Dare.Enoughofthisnonsense.I knownothingaboutwhatyouresaying.Iwouldnteven knowhowtogetsuchathingdone. Bullshit.WithSagansmuscleandWarwickscontactsin Mexico,youhaveeverythingyouneed. Bishopdidntblink.Iwouldneverriskthescandalofhaving mydaughterkidnappedtosomegodforsakenplace. No.KathiputherhandsonBishopsshoulders.He wouldnt.Hedoesntevenapproveofherwriting. Iheard.AndIfiguredthatmightbethemotive.Darestared atBishop.Withthemoviedealintheworks,hernameis reallygoingtobeoutthere.Folks willbemakingtheconnection,andsoonyoullbeknownless foryourownaccomplishmentsandmoreasMolly Alexandersfather. BishopnarrowedhisgazeonMolly.Itsabsurd,allofit.You, atleast,havetorealizethat. Trembling,Kathicurledherlipsinanunbecomingsmile. Speakingofyourwork,Molly,Ipresumeyouhaventhad muchopportunityforwritinglately,have you? Mollysentatightsmilerightbackather.Actually,Ive writtenquiteabit.Darehasacomputerthatheletsmeuse.

Atpresent,Imonlyalittlebehind schedule. Dumbfounded,Kathilosthersmile.Afteryourordeal,you stilltooktimetowrite? Mollyshrugged.Writinghasalwaysbeenmyentertainment, andmyescape.Shegaveherfatheradefiantlook.Its alwaysbeenmywayofcopingwith theuglierthingsinlife. Withacriticalsneer,Kathilookedherover.Thenyou obviouslywerenthurtallthatbadly,wereyou? Badenough,Mollytoldher,andsheneverfalteredfrom holdingKathisgaze.ButIwasntabouttoletthosecreeps, oranyoneelse,ruinme.She sniffed,andsaidasifitmadeperfectsense,Idohavea deadline,youknow. Darewantedtointercede,butitseemedimportanttoletthis littleexchangeplayout,sohekeptsilent.Hehadafeeling thatbeforenow,Mollyhadnever reallytoldherfatherorstepmotherhowshefeltabouttheir mistreatmentofher. Fidgetingwiththesleeveofhersweater,Kathiasked,What aboutyourcontroversy? Whatcontroversydoyoumean? DaregaveMollypointsforprickingKathisalready crumblingfaade.Theolderwomanbarelyheldherself together.Shelookedlikeshewantedtosob, orperhapsflyatMollyforbodilyharmallindefenseofher assholehusband. Interesting. Darestayedalert.Theverbalabusewasdifficultenough.No

wayinhellwouldheleteitherofthesemonsterslayafinger onMolly. Beforeanythingmorecouldbesaid,KathinoticedBishop givinghertheoddestlook,andshedrewinalong,deep breath.Forgiveme.Bishopprefers thatInotspeakofherbooksinhispresence.Inthemiddleof alltheturmoil,Iforgotmyself. Bishopworkedhisjaw.Exactly.Thisishardlythetimefor chattingaboutheroutrageouscareerchoice.Inclear recrimination,hewatchedKathia momentlongerbeforeturningbacktoDare.Isayagain,I wouldnevergetinvolvedinsuchathing. Stickwiththatstoryifyouwant.Mygoalnowistokeep MollyandNataliesafe,whateverittakes. Kathimadearudesound.WhyeverwouldNataliebeinany danger? Whywouldntshebe? KathiwavedahandatMolly.Yousaidwhoevertookher wantedMolly. No,Ididnt.Softly,Daretoldher,Wedontyetknowwhy shewastaken.IfitwasntBishop,thenthethreatcouldbeto anyorallofyou.ButIpromiseIm goingtogettothebottomofit,nomatterwhatittakes. Fine.Shedismissedhiswarningasunimportant.Aslong asyouacceptthatBishopwasntinvolved. Shewantedverificationthatherhusbandwasintheclear. ShewouldntgetitfromDare. Mollystayedrigidbesidehim;forhersake,heneededtoend thisandsoon.Ithinkmynextcourseofactionistogotothe law.Thiswasntdonebyone

person.Whoeverarrangedithadhelp.Oncethestory breaks,someonewilltalk.HeleveledalookonBishop. Someonealwaysdoes.Andthenwell knowthetruth. Puttinghisheadinhishands,Bishopwhispered,Illbe ridiculed,ruined Alittleuselessgossipisallyoucareabout,right?Dare tuggedMollyintohisside.Shewastoosilent,anditworried him.Butwhenhelookedather,she appearedmorethoughtfulthanhurt.ThefactthatMolly wastakendoesntevenfactorin? Sighing,Bishopliftedhisheadandlookedupathisdaughter. Aflickerofgenuineemotionshowed.Icanstillseethe bruising,hesaidquietly.Andthen, Youllbeokay? Yes.Mollypositionedherchinasshealwaysdidwhenon thedefensive.ThankstoDare,Imfinenow. ShewasdamnneardeadwhenIfoundher,Daresaid. Drugged.Tortured.Dehydratedandstarved. Mollygavehimasidewaysglanceathowheplayedupher mistreatment.Shehadbeentortured,butprobablynotinthe wayherfatherandKathinow assumed. Molested?Kathiasked. Mollyshookherhead.Dontsoundsobrokenupoverit, Kathi.Theysparedmethathumiliation. Hersarcasmwaswasted.Well,Iwouldassumethatis,if youweretrulytreatedsobadly,whywouldtheynothave rapedyou? Goddamnit,Kathi!Shutup.

StartledbyBishopsrebuke,shewasquicktosay,Imglad youwerentsubjectedtothat. Sittingbackinhisseat,Bishopranbothhandsthroughhis hair.Hetookasteadyingbreath,andlockedgazeswith Molly.Youmightnotbelieveme,but Imtrulysorryforwhatyouvesuffered,andyouneedto knowthatIhadnothingtodowithit. Mollysaidnothing. Ifyougopublic,noonewillbelievethatyouwerentused sexually.Yourealizethat,Imsure.Bishopshookhishead. Yourlifewillbeunderamicroscope, Molly.Notonlywillyoudamageme,butyoursisters livelihoodasateachercouldbeatstake,andyoullruin yourself,aswell. Natalieonlywantswhatisbestforme,Mollytoldhim. Dareadmiredheraplombunderfire.And,youknow,Ithink itdworkaspublicityforMollysnovels.Nowayinhell wouldDareletthathappen,butBishop couldntknowthat.HisopinionofDarewasnotfavorable. AndthatsuitedDarespurposejustfine. Thinkaboutit,Daresaid.Everynewspaperandmagazine outtherewillbetalkingaboutherand,byassociation,her books.Hersalesarealready throughtheroofwiththemoviedeal,butthiswouldbringa realfocustoherandherwork. IncredulitywidenedKathiseyes.Monster,shewhispered withvenom.Youwoulddestroymyhusbandandallhes workedfortopromoteher? Dareliftedashoulderinnegligentdisregard.Molly,God blessher,heldherowncouncil.Itdbeabyproductof

findingthetruth,butwhatthehell?All publicityisgoodpublicity.Isntthatwhattheysay? Icantstopyou,Bishopannounced,andwhenKathistarted toprotest,hewarned,Thatsenoughfromyou. Shesubsided. ComingaroundthedesktofaceMolly,Bishopstudiedher. Ivealwayscreditedyouwithbeingasmartgirl. Shegavehimayeah,rightlook. No,Idontapproveofwhatyouwrite,butyouvemadeita profitableenterprise.Youknewwhatyouwanted,andyou stucktoit,workedatit,andyouve gainedyourownsuccess.Unlikemanyyoungpeople Dad,Imthirtyyearsold.Notachild. Hisexpressionsoftenedinsadness.Tosomeonepushing sixty,thirtyisstillyoung,believeme.Mypointisthatyouve avoidedthepitfallsofdrugs, alcoholorlackofinitiative.Ithinkyoucouldhavedone more,somethingtrulyworthwhilewithyourtalent Entertainingothersisworthwhile,sheinsisted.Not everythinginlifehastobealesson. Bishopletoutalongsufferingsigh.Debatingitnowisfutile. WhatImattemptingtosayisthatIwantyoutothinklong andhardaboutthis.Dontmake yourselfamatterofpublicgossipjusttohurtme. Indulgent,moreunderstandingthanDarecouldbelieve, Mollyhuffedasmallbreath.Oh,Dad,dontyousee?Not everythingisaboutyou.Thishappened tome,andIneedtoknowwhowantedmehurt,andwhy. Bishopdidnttouchher,nottoembraceherincomfort,not toexerthispaternalwillandnottoventhisanger.ToDare,

thetwofeetbetweenthemfeltlike miles. HewaswillingtobetitfeltevenwidertoMolly,achasmthat wouldneverbebridged.Evenasachild,shedlearnedtolive withthatemotionaldistance. Bishopnoddedhisacceptanceofherdecisionandlookedat Dare.Whendoyouplantogopublic? Soon.Remainingnoncommittal,Darescoopedupthe photosofMarkSaganandEdWarwickandtappedthem againsthisthigh.FirstIthinkIllgetin touchwithyourbuddies,maybesqueezethemalittle. Yourmanyconnections,Isuppose? Ihavewaysofgettingtothetruth,yes.Bothmenhavea jadedhistorythattheyllwanttoprotect.Ifyoureapartyto this,theylleventuallyletsomething slip.Youknowthat,right? Bishopgesturedinresignation.Doyourworst.Theres nothingtheycantellyouaboutme,becauseIhavenever engagedinkidnapping,andInever would. Foronce,Kathiheldsilent.Shekepthergazeonherhands, andDarealmostfeltsorryforher.Almost. ImtakingMollybacktomyhomewithme. Where?Bishopasked. Kentucky.Agoodfourhoursfromherewelloutofyour reach. Bishopgaveaslownodofcompliance.Shellbesafewith you? Ahellofalotsaferthansheeverwaswithoutme. ThenIsupposethatsforthebest.

AfteratimidglanceatBishop,Kathiinterrupted.What aboutyourcontracts,Molly?Themovienegotiations,your agent,youreditorShedampened drylips.Youcouldstaywithus,here.Youdbesafe,and thenyoucouldfinishconductingyourbusiness. AgainBishoplookedatherasifshedlosthermind. Nothappening,DaresaidbeforeMollyorherfathercould respond.ShegoeswhereIgo. Youcouldbothstay,then. No.Ihavedogsathomethatneedmyattention. Bishopsaid,Dogs?whileKathiblinkedathiminclear confusion. Mygirls,Daresaid,knowinghowtheyprobablyfeltabout petsthatwere,inalltheimportantways,apartofhisfamily. Idontliketoleavethemforlong. Youjest,Kathisaid.YoureputtinganimalsaboveMollys safety? Mollyputahandonhisarm.Heunderstood,andlether handleitherway. Sincemosteverythingisdoneoncomputers,Icanconduct mybusinessdealingswhereverImat.Dareshomeisavery calmingplace.Illbeableto workonmydeadline,andassoonasIletmyagentandmy editorknowhowtoreachme,Illbeabletocatchuponthe legalendofthings.Theresno reasonforDarenottobewithhisdogs. Bishopwasimpatient.Canttheyalreadycontactyouon yourcell? Myphone,alongwithmypurse,wentmissingafterI wastaken.Shesteadiedherself.Darehasagreedtostop

longenoughformetopickupanew celltoday.Ifyouwant,Icancallandgiveyouthenumber afterIknowit. Kathinodded.YourfatherandIwouldappreciatethat, thankyou. Personally,Daredidntgiveashitwhattheydappreciate.He sawnoreasontogivethemthemeanstotormenther further,buthedleavethatdecisionup toMolly. Timeforustogo.DareputhisarmaroundMollyand startedfromtheroom. Beforehegotfar,Bishopsaid,Wait. Darelookedbackathim.IndecisionheldBishopinstony silenceforseveralbeatsuntilhisfacepinchedinreluctant decision.Ineedamomenttospeak withyou.Alone. Daredidnttrusthim.Mollystayswithme. Kathihadalreadyhookedanarmaroundher.Shellbefine withme.Wellwaitjustoutsidetheroom. No. Bishopchewedoveralternatives,andsettledonsayingto Kathi,Stepout,leavethegoddamneddooropenandstayin view.AndthentoDare,Good enough? Notreally,butMollysaidtohim,Illbefine,Dare.I promise. Kathirolledhereyes.Forheavenssake.Shessafewithher family. Yeah,right.Fromwhathedseen,herfamilywasworsethan ahatedenemy.

DarepointedatMolly.StaywhereIcanseeyou. Shesmiledagreement. Bishopmovedtothefarthestendoftheroomandwaitedfor Daretojoinhim.MollysteppedoutintothehallwithKathi. Dareheardherremarkonanew paintingandknewshewastalkingwithKathitokeepher stepmotherfromeavesdroppingonwhateverBishopwanted tosaytohim. Sodamnsmart.Andcunning.Sheputupwithmoreshitthan anywomanevershould,andsomehow,againstallodds,she remainedkindandopenand honest.Inandoutofbed. Dareacceptedthathewasfastfallinginlovewithher.And littlebylittle,theideagrewonhim. CHAPTERTWENTYTHREE MOLLYWAITEDFORDaretotellherwhatherfatherhad wanted. Hedidnt. Sheknewhehadhisownwayofdoingthings,awayproven effective.Butithurthertobeshutout,enoughsothatshe didntwanttohavetoask.Forthe longesttime,theyrodeinstrainedsilence. ButMollyknewshehadtodirecthimtoherbank,soshewas thefirsttospeak.Shekeptitcurtandtothepoint.Darehad toknowthatshewasannoyed. Andstillhedidntvolunteertheinformation. Atthebank,withDarefrowningather,Mollydepositedher checks,keepingathousanddollarsincash.Thebundleof moneycreatedanicewadwithina

zipperedcompartmentinherpurse.Whileatthebankshe alsocancelledhertwocreditcards. NextshedirectedDaretothepostoffice,whereshefound yetanotherpileofmailwaitingforherinherpostofficebox. Youdonthaveallyourmaildeliveredtoyourapartment? Mollyshookherheadassheflippedthroughadozenor moreenvelopes.Notfromreaders,no.Sheglancedupat him.Itssafertokeepmyresidence private.Imsurethemajorityofreadersarelovelypeople, butreactionstofictionalworkcanbeverysubjective.Why takeachance? Agreed. Shepausedoveroneletterinparticular.Therewasno returnaddress.Shestuckitbackintothepilefornow.The postofficewasntbusyyet,soshewas abletofinishinashorttime.Darewasquicktogetherback outtohisSUV,andallthewhilehelookedaroundasif expectingsomeonetojumpoutat them. Hisgazewentpastthecardealershipacrossthestreetand thensnappedbackforasuspendedmomentbeforecasually lookingawayagain. Tryingtobediscreet,Mollypeekedup,hopingtoseewhat Darehadseen.Allshenoticedwasnice,shinynew automobilesandafewwellkeptused cars. Theywerestillintheparkinglot,soMollyasked,Dowe needtoleavequickly? Helookedathercuriously.No,why? Sohewasntgoingtotellherwhateverhedseenacrossthe

street,either?Sherolledhereyesandhandedhimtheletter. Whatisit? Frommymostcriticalreader. Browslifted,heopenedtheenvelopeandreadthescrawling textwithajudiciouseye.Interesting. Repetitive,shecountered. Youdidntreadityet. Shrugging,sheagainlookedacrossthestreetandnoticeda shadowinthefrontdriversseatofablackcar.Itsalways thesamethingfromthat reader,shesaidwithoutreallythinking.Allherattention focusedonthatshadow. Weretheybeingfollowed?Wasthereanyimmediatedanger involved? Uneasinessracedupherspine. Letsgo. Justaminute.Heturnedovertheenvelopetocheckthe front. Theresnoreturnaddress.Thereneverwas.Andshereally wantedtogo. StillDarestudiedit.Withoutawordhefoldedtheenvelope, putitinhispocketandfinallystartedtheSUV. Mollyhookedherseatbelt.Strivingforsomesenseof normalcy,resentingthereturnintrusionoffear,sheturned toDare.Isthereareasonyoure keepingmymail? TheresalwaysareasonforthethingsIdo.Hechecked behindhim,thenbackedoutofthelotandsteeredinto traffic.Anyotherstops? Oh,shecouldplaythisgameifthatwaswhathewantedto

do.Iwouldntmindstoppingsomewheretobuyawallet. Maybeifwegetthephoneatamall,I couldfindawalletthen. Nomalls.Butyoureaquickshopper,soImsurewecan workitout.Hepulledouthiscellandputinacall.Whileit rang,hesaid,Letsgetinto Kentuckyfirst,though.Illfeelbetteraboutitthen. Thatsfine.AslongasIgettocallmyeditorandagent beforeitstoolate.Mollydidntknowwhohehadonthe phone,butshewentsilentwhensheknew thecallhadbeenanswered. Howaremygirls?Dareaskedfirst. Ah,sohedcalledChris.Whileshecontinuallypeekedoutthe sideviewmirror,watchingforthatblackcar,shehalf listenedtoDare.Hecaughtupwith Chrisandtoldhimthattheydbebackbeforedark.Itdbea relieftosettleintoDareshomewithhimagain.Shefelt calmerthere,lessexpectant. ButKathiwasright;thatcouldbeaproblem. WhileDareandherfatherhadtalkedinthelibrary,Kathi hadusedthetimetowhisperwarningstoher,allinthe nameofstepmotherlyconcern.Butshe hadmadeoneveryvalidpoint. Astheonewhohadrescuedher,Dareheldresponsibilityfor hercontinuedwellbeing.Butwhenwouldhissenseof obligationend?Aslongasshe remainedinhishome,wouldthereevercomeapointwhen hewouldbecomfortableinendingtheirrelationship?How, Kathihadasked,couldMollyever knowDarestruefeelingsaslongashewassaddledwiththe

taskofcaringforher? MollyglancedoveratDareandnoticedhimwatchingthe rearviewmirror.Herstomachknotted. No,IlltakecareofthatonceImhome,Daresaidintothe phone.Helistenedagainforafewminutesandthensaid, Thanks.CallTracebackforme. AskhimifheandAlaniwanttomeetfordinnertonight. Yeah.TellhimanywherealongI75,fromCincinnatidown, wouldwork.Hecanpicktheplace,but getbacktomesoononwhathehastosay.Henodded. Appreciateit.TellmygirlsIllbehomesoon.Dareended thecall. Shecouldntkeepthefrownatbay.Hedmadedinnerplans forthemwithoutconferringwithher.Shehadnosayinhis decision. Andwhyshouldshe?Sheremindedherselfthatshewasa guestofDareshospitality;ofcoursehehadtomaintaina regularschedule,andhecouldntdo thatbycompletelyputtinghislifeonholdforher. Dareheldouthisphonetoher.Ifyouwanttomakeany callsrightnow,youcanusemyphone. Shethoughtaboutitanddecidedshewantedtogetitoutof theway.Thanks.Rightnow,anyroutinenormalcy,like talkingbusiness,wouldbewelcome. Shecalledheragentfirst.Asitworkedout,onceshed explainedtoherthatshedbeencaughtincircumstances beyondmycontrol,whichleftme incapableofcalling,heragentwasveryunderstandingand offeredtogetholdoftheeditorforher.Shealsohadseveral thingssheneededtofaxtoMolly

forimmediatesignatures. MollycheckedwithDare,gothisfaxnumberandsharedit withheragent.Usingtheexcuseofbeingunderthegunon time,Mollypromisedtotalkmore whenshecould,andshetoldheragentthatshedexplainin moredetailwhenshewasable. AftershehandedthephonebacktoDare,heasked, Everythingokay? Mollynodded.Inthebeginning,shedbeensoexcitedabout themovie,soflatteredandsoproud.Now,itseemedalmost insignificantintheschemeof things.Herprioritieshadshiftedinabigway. ShewasfarmoreunderstandingthanIthoughtshedbe. Nobigquestions? No,thankGod.ShejustsaidthatshehopesImokayandto letherknowifshecandoanything. Daregrinned.Youremakingheralotofmoney. Mollyshrugged.Sure.Butshesalsoaverynice,warm womanwithloadsofgoodbusinesssense. WhileshehadDaretalking,Mollydecidedtoventureinto herconcerns.WillNatalietrulybeallright? Idontthinkanyonewantstobotherher,butevenifthey did,Jettsgoingtokeepaneyeonher.Hewontleaveher alone,exceptforwhenshesat school.Heputawarmhandonherthigh.Trynottoworry, okay? Restingherheadbackagainsttheseat,Mollywonderedhow shecouldnotworry.EspeciallywhensheagainsawDare lookintherearviewmirror. Stillwithahandonherthigh,Dareasked,Whatareyou

thinking? Itwasntlikehertoplaygames,soshegavehimanhonest answer.Iwasgoingoverconversationalpieces. Like? MarkSaganin,andoutof,asuit.Sheswiveledherheadto lookatDare.Itwasstrangehowmystepmothersaidthat, dontyouthink?Almostasifshe knowshimmoreintimatelythanwefirstthought. Darechewedhisupperlip,glancedather,thenbacktothe road.Youpickeduponthat,huh? Hehadtobekidding.Didntyou? Yeah.Heshiftedinhisseat,putbothhandsonthesteering wheel.Yeah,Idid. Dare? Hismouthflattened. Oh,forcryingoutloud.Shedhadenoughofhismacho posturing.Imnotthatfragile,youknow.Iwontbreak. Youvebeenthroughahellofalot.Thatbusinesswithyour fatherandhisnuttywifeHeshookhishead.Damn,Molly, thatwaspainfulformetowatch.I canonlyimaginehowitisforyoutoliveit. Hedbeendistractedinhisconcernforher?Okay,shecould forgivethataslongasitendedrightnow.Thatstheone goodthingtocomeoutofallthis. IrealizenowthatIhaveveryrealendurance.Ifwhat happenedtomehadhappenedtosomeoneelseIknow,Id expecthertobefallingapart.AndId understandifshedid.ButSheshookherhead.Ireallyam goingtobeokay.Iknowit,andIcanttellyouwhatthatfeels like,butitsgood.

Itsempowering.Voicelow,expressionintimate,Daresaid, Yourstrengthisundeniable. Suchasmoothtalker.SomehowDaremadeacommenton herfortitudesoundlikeaverysexycompliment.Thenwe agreethatImnotthetypeto crumpleintoanemotionalmess.So,outwithit.Shehalf turnedtofacehim,asfarastheseatbeltwouldallow.Does yoursilencehavetodowiththat carfollowingus? Surpriseflashedinhisgazebeforehemaskedit. Mollyrolledhereyes.Imnotacompletedummy,either. Imawareofyourmanyqualities,honey,youdonthaveto keepremindingme.Hecheckedtherearviewmirroragain. Iwouldsaythatcarlikelymeans thatwereontherighttrack. YouthinkDadsentpeopletofollowus? Darehedged.Imstillmullingthingsover. Narrowinghereyes,Mollysaid,Mullthemoveroutloud. Itllhelpbringclarity. Hisgazeclashedwithhersforaheartbeat,andthenhe lookedawaywithagrin.Youreallyaregettingbackto normal,arentyou? Herneckwentstiff.Meaningwhat? Nowthegrinturnedintoalaugh.Nothinginsulting,Iswear. Youwerejustsodamnedpoliteandreservedatfirst,itmade menuts.Heglancedather again,alloverher.IlikethisnewHethoughtaboutit, thenshrugged.Confidence.Butmorethanthat,really. Youreselfassured,poised,assertive. Heheldouthishand,andwhenshetookit,heliftedher

palmforakiss.Imgladthatyouregettingbacksomeof yourown. Mollygavehimasternanddirectstare.Ithinkthisisyour waytoavoidtellingmewhatmydadwantedwithyou. Wrong.Helethergotoreturnhishandtothewheelagain. YourdadaskedforalittletimebeforeIbreakthebigstory. Thatsall. Butyouarentplanningtobreakastoryanyway. Weknowthat.Hedoesnt. Whatwashisreasoning?Ahorriblethoughtoccurredto her.Didheofferyousomethinginexchangeforyour silence?Shewouldntputthatpasther dad.Publichumiliationwouldbehellonearthforhim. Hedid.Daretookanexitoffthemoreruralstreetsand ontotheI75highway.Heofferedtohandovertheone responsible. Herstomachlurched,andpainsqueezedaroundherheart. Damnit,shedthoughtherselfimmunetoherfathers vitriolicmachinations. Apparentlynot. Tryingtohideherreaction,Mollynodded.Sohedoesknow whosresponsible? Notexactly,no.Buthehasafewideas,andinaneffortto exoneratehimself,hesgoingtodoalittlecheckingonhis end.Atthispoint,Idontthinkhis snoopingaroundwillhurtanything,soItoldhimtogo ahead.Laterintheweek,Illcallhimtofindouthowits going. Hereallybelievesthatyouwouldthrowthestoryoutthere forthemedia?

Iwasconvincing,wasntI? Nottome,butthenIknowyoubetterthanhedoes.Molly wasntatallsurethatshereallywantedtoknow,butneither didshewanttohideherheadinthe sand.SowhodoesDadsuspect? Hewouldntsay.Dareworkedhishandsonthewheel.But Ibelievedhimthathehasanideaortwo.Andyouknow Hethoughtaboutit,glancedat herandaway,thenadmittedsoftly,Imrethinkinghimas theoneresponsible. Itfeltlikeaweighthadbeenliftedfromher,withjustthat possibility.Really? Somethingdidntfit.Idontknow.Imsureyourfatherisa slickliar. Hesashark,inbusinessandout. Darenodded.Butheseemedgenuinelyinsultedtobe accusedofhavingyouhurt. Ridiculoushopesprangtolife.Sheknewherfatherwould neverloveher,butapathywouldbeeasiertobearthandeep hatred. Withtentativecaution,Mollyadmitted,Tome,too. Dareslantedameasuringlookherway.Youdidntsay anything. Shelookeddownatherhands.Iguessmytrustinyou outweighsmyneedformyfathersaffection.WhenDares silenceworeonher,shelookedupto seeaverythoughtfulfrownonhishandsomeface.Ididnt wanttoobviateyourinstinctswithmyown,likelyjaded, perspective. Actually,hetoldher,Itrustyourinstincts,too,soalways

feelfreetotellmewhatyourefeeling. Doyoumeanthat? Hisfrowndarkenedmore.OfcourseIdo. Allright.Shetookabreath.Thenwhyareyoukeepingme inthedark? Thataccusationdidntsitwell.Itellyoueverythingyou needtoknow. Now,thathurt.So,Imonaneedtoknowbasis? No.Donttwistmywords. Youretheonewhosaidit.Herthroatfeltthick.Itwas insanethatsomethingsosmallcouldhurtherfeelingsonthe heelsofeverythingelseshedbeen through. Daremadeavisibleshowofstrivingforpatience.After anotherglanceintherearviewmirror,hetookanexit towardanewerstripmall. Hesaidnothing,soshedidnt,either.Butshehatedthe tensionbetweenthem. Afterheparked,hewatchedthemirrors,waiting,andwhen theblackcardidntshow,heturnedofftheSUV,releasedhis seatbeltandreachedforher. Mollystiffenedinsurprise.What Holdinghershoulders,Darepulledherovertheconsoleand kissedher.Thiswasnofriendlypeck.Hislipsworkedover hersuntilshepartedthem.Then histonguestrokedin.Thekisswashotanddeep,and ohsostirring. Mollycameupforairandstraightarmedhim.Ifthatsyour wayofshuttingmeup Helaughedandkissedheragain,thistimeforatickling,

teasingsmooch.Thatwasmywayofmakingmyselffeel better.Hesmoothedhisthumbover hercheek.FromtheverybeginningIvebeenirresistibly drawntoyou.Ifyourenearenough,Imgoingtowantto touchandkissyoufornoreasonother thanthatIlikeit. Oh.Grudgingly,shesaid,Ilikekissingyou,too. Iknowyoudo.Smiling,hedroppedhishandsandstared outthewindshieldwhilehegatheredhisthoughts.Ialways workalone,Molly.Otherthan Trace,theresneverbeenanyonethatIconfidedintohelp mesortoutdetailswhenIwasonacase.WhenImnotsure aboutthings,Idontwanttoalarm you,orgiveyoufalsehope. Shecouldunderstandthat.Butnothingiseverreally concrete,isit? Icanusuallynarrowthingsdowntosomeprettydamn goodguesses. Hislackofmodestyamusedher.Iknow.AndIunderstand whyatfirst,youtriedtoshieldme. Ithasntbeenthatlongyet.Heturnedhisheadtogiveher alonglookofconsideration.Yeah,youremorerelaxed everyday,butitsthere,Molly.Iseeit inyoureyesstill.Thefactthatsomeoneisfollowingus Still?Shetwistedaroundtopeerouteachwindow,and sawnoone. Yousee?Yourejumpyashellaboutit,whentheresno reason.DoyouhonestlythinkIdstophereiftherewasany dangertoyou? Venturingtherightreply,shesaid,No?

Somuchconfidenceinme.Heshookhishead.No,I wouldnt.Werebeingfollowed,butnotaggressively. Whoeverisonmytailisaproandprobably justwantstoknowwhereImgoingwithyou.Hell,itcould beyourdadjustkeepingupwithyououtofconcern.She snorted. Yeah,Idoubtthat,too.Butitspossible. Wantmetocallhimandtellhimtobackoff?Ifheknows wereontohim No. Because? Itmightnotbehim,andIdontwanttotipoffanyone. Mollyletoutasigh,andinsistedonthetruth.So,whatsthe mostlikelyscenario? Aftergaugingherinterest,Dareshrugged.Idsayits probablysomeonewhowantstoknowwhereImtakingyou inthehopesofgettingtoyouagain. Oh,God.Shebitherlip.Hard.Thennodded.Okay,soI assumethatyouhaveaplan? Yeah.Blueeyesglittering,Daresaid,Tokillanyonewho triestotouchyou. Oh.Rubbingherforeheaddidntrelievethesudden pressurethere.Youknow,maybeifitspossiblenottokill anyone AndthatswhyIdonttellyoueverything.Heopenedhis doorandcircledaroundtoherside.Whenshesteppedout, heheldherfacetokissheragain, thistimewithmeasuredgentleness.Itsnotonyou,Molly. Youhavenoreasonforguiltoveranythingoranyone. Understand?

Shenodded.Inreality,shedidntblameherself.Buttheidea ofsomeonedyingjustbecausehefollowedherfathers orders Growlinginexasperation,Dareputhisarmaroundherand startedherforward.Hekepthisgazestraightaheadwhenhe said,Ifitsatallpossibleto safelydetainwithoutkilling,thenIwill. Hemadeitsoundlikethegrandestconcession.Oddthatshe hadtofightasmileoversomethingsoserious.Thankyou, Dare. Drily,hesaid,Dontmentionit.Heopenedthedoortoa wirelessstore,andtheywentinsidetopickoutaphone. WhileMollyperusedtheselections, Daregotacallandsteppedoverbythedoortotalk.Molly usedthetimetomakeherpurchase,payingforthephonein cashbeforeDarecouldgiveher morefrowninglooksoverit.Itwastheoddestthing,howhe objectedtoherspendingherownmoney. Insomeways,hewasthemostoldfashionedmanshedever met.Inotherways,hewasbyfarthemostadvanced.In everyway,hewasunique. Thesmallshopalsohadasupplyofcellphonecoverswith matchingwallets,soshewasabletokilltwobirdswithone stone.Withherbaggedpurchases inhand,shewentovertoDarejustintimetohearthetail endofhisplanswithTrace. Dareclosedhisphoneandputitaway.Alldone? Nodding,Mollytoldhim,Igotawallethere,too,soIdont needtostopanywhereelse. Hescannedtheparkinglotbeforeopeningthedoorand

leadingherout.Yougettinghungry?WellmeetTraceand Alanirightbeforewegettomyplace, sonotforthreehoursorso,dependingontraffic.Wecan grabsomethingbeforethenifyouwant. Areyouhungry?Bigashewas,Dareprobablyneededto refueloften. Gettingthere.Helookedaroundtheareaandspotteda bakeryafewdoorsdown.Howdoesabagelsound? Notasgoodasafewdonuts. Grinning,heconcededthatandtogethertheypickedouta bagofmixeddonutswithlargecoffees.Anythingelse? Dareaskedher. Thinkingofthelongrideahead,shesaid,Illtakeajuice, too.Andatthelastminuteshesnaggedkettlechipsand addedthemtothepurchases. WhenDaremadeapointofnotsayinganything,sheelbowed him.Itsawful,Iknow.ButIeatwhenImstressed. Ashepaidthecashier,hesaid,Idontwantyoutobe stressed. Tough.Shehookedherarmthroughhis,andtheyheaded backfortheSUV.IknowImsafewithyou,Dare,Ireallydo. ItsjustthatIhatethenecessityfor youtohavetoprotectme. Molly Knowinghedidntunderstand,shecuthimoff.IwishIwas justsafe,withoutanyqualifiers,youknow?LikeIusedto be. Iunderstand.Heopenedherdoorandthenhandedher theirgoodies.Itsunfortunate,butnowyouknowthatno oneisevertrulysecure.Thereare

dangersoutthere,always,andsometimesyoucantavoid them.Itsahellofalesson.Hekissedherandthenshutthe door. IsthathowDarefelt?Isthathowhedalwaysfelt?Didhe livehislifeforeveronguardagainstperil?Whataterrible waytolive,alwayswaitingfor somethingtohappen. Whenhegotbehindthewheel,shesaid,Dare?Andwhen helookedather,shestretchedovertheconsolesothatshe couldinitiatethekissthistime. Smiling,shetoldhim,Ilikethiskissingbusiness,too. Hedidntsmileback.Instead,heputonebighandaround herneckanddrewherforwardforadeeper,firmerkissthat lefthercoiledwithneed. WhileMollytriedtoregroup,hereachedaroundherto fastenherseatbelt,thenpreppedhiscoffeeandputitinthe cupholder. Mollylickedherlips.Wow. Yeah.Sinceshedidntdoitherself,hefixedhercoffee,too. Wehavesomepowerfulchemistrygoingonbetweenus. HeputtheSUVingear.Now, howaboutadonut? Hereallycouldrattleherthoughts.Sheputadonutina napkinandstartedtohandittohim.Youreallydontthink mydadistheonebehindthis? Thoughshedaskedthattotallyoutofcontext,Dareknew exactlywhatshemeant.Ithinkweshouldntjumptoany conclusionsatall. Thatnonanswerhadherwithholdingthedonutbeforehe couldgetit.Dare?

Thegrinflickeredbeforehegrewseriousagain.Imleaning awayfromhimastheinstigator.Hetookthedonut.By tonight,Ishouldbeabletogiveyoua moredefinitiveanswer.Howsthat? Shesupposeditwouldhavetodo.Andifhehadastraight answertonight,ifhediscoveredtheonewhodorchestrated itallthenwhat? Mollytookonemorelookinthemirror,butdidntsee anyone. Hesstillthere,Daretoldher.Buthesnotgoingtobea problem.Relax,eatyourdonutandtrustme. CHAPTERTWENTYFOUR FEWPEOPLEWEREinsidetherestaurantwhentheygot there.Darehadchosenitbecauseheknewtheowners,ithad decenthomecookedfoodand itwasrightoffthehighway. HespottedTraceandAlani,alreadyinsideandseatedata back,moreprivate,table.WithjustalookfromDare,Trace understoodthathedsetthisup forareasonwellbeyondsocializing. DareandMollyheadedtowardthem. Asusual,DaremadenoteofhowMollywasdifferentfrom otherwomen.Atfivefeetsixinches,Alaniwasclosetothe sameheightasMolly,butAlanihad amorewillowybuild.Withherlongpalehairandgolden eyes,shealwayslookedalittleetherealtoDare.Likea whimsicalcreatureofthenight.Those whoknewAlanialwaystreatedhergently,whichwasone reasonthekidnappinghaddevastatedTracesobadly.

DareknewthatAlaniwasbeautiful,butforhim,hesawher asalittlesister,withoutasingleounceofsexualmagnetism. Molly,ontheotherhand,wassointrinsicallysexythatDare didntunderstandhowshedstayedsinglesolong.There wasrealsubstancetoher,notin weightorheight,butinattitude,inherbearingandher determination. TracestayedbehindhissisterastheyrosetogreetDareand Molly. AfteranodatTrace,Daresaid,Alani.Hepulledherintoan affectionate,onearmembracewhilekeepingaholdon Molly.Itsgoodtoseeyouagain. Youtoo,Dare.Distractedwithcuriosity,shepeekedpast himtoMolly. DareputahandtothesmallofMollysback.Molly,Idont knowifyourememberAlaniornot,but OfcourseIdo. Withherbottomlipcaughtinherteeth,hereyelashes fluttering,Alanishowedhernervousness. Mollywasjusttheopposite.ShesteppedrightuptoAlani andtookherhands.Howareyou,Alani? Alaninodded.Imfine. Laughing,MollylookedoverhershoulderatDare.Dontlet himhearyousaythat.Hehasanobjectiontosugarcoating things.Aftergivingheralong, sympatheticperusal,Mollydrewherintoherarms.You weresobrave,Alani.Ihadhopedthatwedgettomeet again.Imsogladtoseeyoulookingso well. AlaniputherfaceinMollysshoulderandclungtoher.

Traceliftedabrow. Sosoftlythatnooneelsecouldhear,MollyspoketoAlani, whichearnedheratighterhugandashudderingnod. Daredrewhisfriendaside.Letsletthemtalkamomentin private. Reachingbackwithonehand,Mollyshooedthemaway,then urgedAlanitositdownwhilestillstayingclosetoher, holdingherhands,talkingtoher. TheybothheardAlanigiveashort,waterylaugh,andthen sawhernodatwhateverMollyhadsaid. Damn.Ididntexpectthat.Tracewatchedhissisterwith growingconcern.Shewasfineafewminutesago. Alaniwasonlytwentytwo,andshedalwaysbeenvery protected.NotthatMollyhadledaworldlylifestyleherself, butagain,therewasthatdifferencein backbone.Mollyshomelifehadmadehertough,whereas Alanishaddonejusttheopposite.Ifyousayso. Tracerubbedthebackofhisneck.Yeah,itsbullshit.Shes holdingittogether,butshesstillshaken. Whowouldntbe?WhilewatchingMollywithAlani,Dare pulledTracebackafewstepsmore,towardanemptycorner. Imbeingfollowed.Black Charger,newermodel.IdontwantyoutoriskAlani,but Noproblem.Tracefoldedhisarms.Howmanyinthecar? Mollyonlysawone,butIvepickedupthree. Tracegavehimablanklook.Youtoldheraboutthetail? Shakinghishead,Dareexplained,Shespotteditherself. Anddamnedifitdidntmakehimproudtoadmitthat. Noshit?LookingbacktowardMollywithnew appreciation,Tracewhistledlow.Thatsboundtomake

thingsmoredifficultforyou. Idontknow.Shesprettylevelheadedaboutitall.Then Daregrinned.ButshedidaskthatItrytorefrainfrom killinganyone. Shakinghishead,Tracesaidwithalaugh,Women. Evennow,Darecouldntkeephiseyesoffher.Actually,I thinkformeitsjustthisoneparticularwoman. Youreserious? Definitelyserious.Idonthaveitallfiguredoutyet,butIm notabouttolethergo. Theysharedalookoverthat,andTracegaveDarea commiseratingpatontheshoulder.Dontworryaboutyour tail.Illkeepaneyeonthings.Ifanything goesdown,Illbeonit. Appreciateit. No.Tracedrewinadeep,emotionalbreath.The appreciationisallmine.Alanimightbestruggling,but thankstoyou,sheisgoingtobeokay. Imglad.Seeingthatthewomenwerereadyforthemnow, DareaskedTrace,Whatwillyoutellher?Aboutfollowing mehome,Imean. Thetruth. ThatshockedDare.TracehadprotectedAlanifromthe edgieraspectsofhiscareerformostofherlife.Shesready forthat? Ithinkso.Shesaysshewantstoknoweverything,allofit, becausebeingshelteredleftherillpreparedforwhatHe stopped,tightenedhisfists.Aftera secondheclearedhisthroat,andstillthewordscameout raspywithemotion.Forwhathappened.

Darefeltforhim.ItseemedTracewashavingashardatime asAlani. Youvedonerightbyher,Trace.Astheyheadedbacktothe table,Dareadded,Beatingyourselfupisonlygoingtoadd toherguilt. Shesaidthesame.Heshookoffthetensionandforceda smileastheyreachedthewomen.Withoutmissingabeat,he pickeduptheconversationon careers. Alaniisanincredibleinteriordesigner,Tracebragged,but Daredidntletherdohisplace. DarepulledoutthechairnexttoMolly.Youbothknowthat Imparticular. Andnooneknowsyoulikeyou.Iknow.Alanirolledher eyesandsaidtoMolly,ButDaredoeshavegreattaste,soI cantfaulthim. Agreed.Hishouseisincredibleinsideandout. ThatgaveAlanipause. Daresaid,Shesstayingwithme. Oh.Alanitriednottoreacttothat,butshestillendedup grinningatDareandsayingslyly,Ididntrealize. Mollywasntputoffbyherhumor.OnceIgetmylifebackin order,IthinkIllbuyahouseofmyown. Daresatback.Sincewhen? MyapartmentWell,itsobviouslynotsecureenough,soI cantseemegoingbacktheretostay.AndthentoAlani,If youhavethetimewhenImready tobuy,Icouldusesomeprofessionalhelp,Imsure.Maybe wecanworktogether. Oh,Idlovethat!Alanigaveherabusinesscard,andfora

fewminutestheydiscussedMollyspreferencesandstyle. DarecouldntbelievethatMollywasthinkingalongthose lines.Wherethehelldidshethinkshedbemovingto?Was shejustbidinghertimeuntilitwas safetoleavehim? Yes,heknewthateventuallytheydhavetoworkoutthe relationshipkinks.ButtheideaofhermovingawayNo,he didntlikethatideaatall. Traceflaggedthewaitress.Idontknowabouttherestof you,butImstarved. JudgingbyDaresblackmood,heshungry,too,Alani teased. Mollylookedoverathim,andconcerncoloredher expression.Dare?Whatswrong? Knowinghewasscowling,butnotabouttoexplainwhy, Daretriedtolightenup.Notathing.Hepickedupamenu, eventhoughheknewitbyheart. Aftertheydallordered,hereachedforMollyshandand spoketohisfriends.DidMollytellyouthatshesawriter? Shedid!Alaninodded.Romanticsuspense.Itsexciting, isntit? Nokidding?Traceaskedaboutherwork,andMolly patientlyansweredhisquestions.Lackingsubtlety,Trace said,Iwouldntwishitonanyone,butthis couldalmostberesearchforyou. Mollylookedstruckbythatobservation.IhadntImean,it didntoccurtome Alanitooksympathyonher.Dangerandromanceprobably mixbetteronpaperthaninreallife. Thedangerpart,yeah.Hewishedlikehellhecouldhave

sparedMolly.Buttheromance?HowdidMollyfeelabout that?Nowaycoulditbeworthwhat shedgonethrough,butifithadntbeenforherabduction, hewouldnthavemether. MollydidntquitelookatDarewhenshesaid,Thedoseof realityhasbeenaneyeopener,thatsforsure. Darehopedhedidntendupinabook,butthen,hetrusted Mollytohavediscretion. Fortherestofthemealtheyallsocializedlikeeveryday, ordinarypeople,asopposedtowomenwhodbeenabducted andmenlethalenoughto maneuveroutsidethelaw. Consideringthecircumstances,itactuallyturnedintoa relaxingsocialtime.DareenjoyedwatchingMollyinteract withTraceandAlani.Tracewas smootherthanhim,butstillmanagedtointimidatemost people.NotMolly. Shekeptsteeringtheconversationawayfromherwriting andbacktoothers,askingquestionsthatwerentintrusive orinsensitive,butcamefromgenuine interest. TracesmiledatheralotandsodidAlani.Yes,shestill seemedfragile,butwithMolly,Alanirelatedonadeeper level. Forherpart,MollydidnttreatAlaniwithkidglovestheway somanyothersdid.Shetreatedherasanequal,andAlani respondedtoit. Whentheywerereadytoleavetherestaurant,Mollyagain embracedAlani.Iwouldloveitifyoustayedintouch. Lower,shesaid,Andifyoueverneed

totalk,knowthatImalwaysavailable. Alanigaveatremuloussmile.IwishIwasasstrongasyou. ThatmadeMollylaugh.Trustme,ifyoudseenmegoingto Darebecauseofasillynightmare,orbecauseIcouldntbear tobealonewithmythoughts, youdknowIwasntthatstrongatall.ShesqueezedAlanis hand.Weeachhavetodealhoweverwecan.Imsolucky thatDarewasthereforme,and youhaveabrotherwholovesyou.Ihopeeverywomanwho wastherehassomeoneascaringtohelpherthroughthis now. Me,too.AlanisteppedovernexttoTrace.Letsget togetheragainsoon. Tracehuggedher.Wellseethemagainsoonenough. Theywerebackontheroad,radioplaying,whenMollysaid, DidyouaskTracetofollowushome? Daregaveheradoubletake.Wouldshealwayssurprisehim likethis?Shecouldnthaveoverheardhimtalkingwith Trace;shedbeenfocusedonAlani atthetime.AndnowayinhellwouldshespotTrace.Hewas fartoogoodforthat. Skirtingadirectanswer,Daresaid,Whydoyouask? Idontknow.Therewasjustsomethinginhisexpression whenwesaidgoodbye. Shewassodamnedintuitive.Yeah,hesbackthere. Justincase? Thatsright.Thedaysweregettinglonger,butalreadythe skieshaddarkened.Itwasnttheseasonsomuchasthe weather.Cloudsrolledin,leaving everythinggrayanddowncast.Imnotworriedaboutthe

highway.Butwehavetotakealotofsideroadstogettomy house,andthatcouldleaveus vulnerable. Mollyreachedoverandputherhandonhisthigh.Before yousayit,Iwontworry.Butifyounoticeanything happening,wouldyoupleasetellme?Iprefer toknowwhatsgoingonandIpromiseIwontgetintheway orpanic. Youwanttobeprepared. Shenodded.Idonteveragainwanttobetakenso completelybysurprise. Allright. Sheputherheadbackandclosedhereyes,butleftherhand onhim.Briefly,Darecovereditwithhisown. Itfeltgoodtobegoinghome. ItfeltevenbettertohaveMollywithhim. THOUGHTSINTURMOIL,Bishopsoughtprivacytomakehis call.No,hedidnttrustthelibrary.Buthisbedroomno longerfeltsecure,either.Notforthis. Unsurewheretogotoavoidthepryingeyesandearsof servantsandhisdotingwife,heheadedouttooneofthe garagebays.Headdownandguts tight,hewentbehindthebuilding,uncaringofthelandscape hetrampledorifheruinedhisshoes. Forawhilenow,hedhadawful,unthinkable,unacceptable suspicions,butasyettheyhadntbeenconfirmed. Nownowhefeltmorepositivethanever. Thoughhewasduetomeetwithhisdiscreetinvestigatorfor

anupdateinafewdaystime,henolongerwantedtowait. Thesecondthecallwasanswered,Bishopsaid,Doyouhave anythingforme? Apausesoundedontheotherend.Bishop? Thoughnoonecouldseehim,heslashedhishandthrough theairinasignofimpatience.Whoelsewoulditbe? Ithoughtweweregoingtomeetinperson. Icantwait.Now,doyouhaveanythingtotellmeornot? Asamatteroffact,Ido.Inaquietertone,theinvestigator said,Youwereright.Imsorry. Feelingsick,Bishopclosedhiseyesandsmelledhiswifes perfume.Hespunaround,andthereshewas,hergazeon him,searching,caring.She approachedcautiously,unsureofthesituation. Hewasusedtoherdeference,andbeforenow,ithadonly mildlyannoyedhim. Bishop?shesaid,soundingsmallandafraid.Whatareyou doingouthere? Hadshefollowedhim?Breathinghard,filledwithrevulsion, Bishopheldthephonedowntohisside.Itwasyou,wasnt it? Shesummonedasmall,placatingsmile.Whatwasme?Who areyoutalkingto? Hewantedtotellherthatitdidntconcernher.Butitdid.It concernedherinaverybigway.Youvebeencheatingon me,Kathi. Alarmed,herheadshaking,shefellbacktwosteps.What areyoutalkingabout? Liftingthephoneouttowardher,Bishopshouted,Ihavea manfollowingyou,damnit.Iknow.IknewevenbeforeI

hiredhim. Buthow? God,didshereallyconsiderhimsuchafool?Well,nomore. Youthinkamancanttellwhenhiswifeisfuckingsomeone else?Hemovedclosertoher. YouhonestlybelieveImthatobtuse? Sheshookherhead.Itsnotlikethat.Andthen,beseeching, Ididitforus.Foryou. Incredulous,Bishopstaredather. Exasperated,sheexplained,Toprotectyourreputation. Wassheinsane?Havingawhoreforawifeissupposedto helpme? Imnotawhore!Howcouldyousaysuchathing? Bishopjuststaredather.Youdisgustme. Dontyousee?Kathireachedout,almosttouchinghim,but hesteppedaway.Shewouldhaveruinedeverything. Sicknesscrawledinhisguts.Heclosedthephone,belatedly preservinghisprivacy. Alreadyknowingwhatshedsay,butprayinghewaswrong, heasked,Who? Molly. DearGod.Soitwasher. Energizedbyhisapparentinterest,Kathisurgedforward, tryingtogetholdofhim,butagainhesteppedback.Ifshe touchedhim,hedkillher. Whatdidyoudo,Kathi? YouheardDare.Theyregoingtomakeherbookintoa movie.Dontyouunderstand?Youhaventreadher,Bishop, oryoudknowthatIhadtodo somethingtoprotectyou,andme,frombeingtaintedbyher

popularity.Herstoriesaredepraved,justasyouvealways said.Thecharactersare entertaining,yes,buttheyrewithoutmoralstandards.I triedtotellher,butshesignoredmyletters. Sweatgatheredonthebackofhisneck,histemples.What letters?Whatareyousaying? Kathilookedoff,talkingasmuchtoherselfastoBishop.She refusedtochangeanything,andnowitsgoingtobeamovie andalltheworldwillknow. Theyllfindoutthatshesyourdaughter,andtheyllknow whattypeofpersonsheis,whattypeofdaughteryou raised. Shewasinsane.Tryingtomakesenseofeverything,Bishop asked,YouransackedMollysapartment? Ihadto.SomehowthathorridmangotheroutofMexico.I didntknowwhereshewas,orwhatshewasdoing. Christalmighty.YouhadMollykidnapped?Hisdaughter couldhavediedbecauseofhiswife.Repercussions slammedthroughhisbrain;hecouldnt bearit.Buthow? Oh,thatpartwaseasy.Shehalflaughed.Markknowsall kindsofpeople.Heeasilyarrangedeverything.Goingsmug, sheadded,Forme. So,Darewasright.ShehadinvolvedSaganandinthe processleftthembothexposedtounthinkable consequences. Helookedaround,expectingthugstojumpoutofthebushes atanymoment.Doyouknowwhatyouvedone? Shetwitteredalaugh.Dontworry.Markthinkswehave somethingspecial,buthedoesntunderstandthatIdiditfor

you.Asifsharingaconfidence,she leanedforwardtowhisper,Georgeisgoingtokillhimfor me.Afterhestakencareofeverythingelse. HertwistedlogicleftBishopfloundering.Shespokeofkilling withthesamedetachmentshegavetohousekeepingduties. Sheactuallyappearedproud ofhercunning,asifshedhelpedhimtohandleatricky businessdeal. Suddenlywhatshedsaidpresentedanewhorror.Afterhes takencareofeverythingelse.Heartthundering,Bishop grabbedhershoulderandslammed herupagainstthebrickfacingofthegaragebay.Hisfist twistedinherfinelymadetop.WhereisGeorgenow? Bishop,shecomplained,tryingtowrigglefree,fussingat thedamagehedidtoherclothing. Whereishe? Herbottomlipcameoutinapout.HesgoneafterMollyand Dare,ofcourse.YouheardwhatDaresaid.Hewantsto destroyyou.ButImnotabouttolet thathappen.Thankstoyou,IhaveeverythingIeverwanted, everythingthatsimportanttome,andnooneisgoingtorob meofit.Sheputherarms aroundhimandlaidherheadonhisshoulder.Iloveourlife togethertoomuchtoeverriskit. Armsathissides,strangledbyloathing,Bishopacceptedthe truth;everythinghedworkedsohardforwouldbe destroyed.Andthoughindirectly,hehad noonetoblamebuthimself. Hecouldntcoverupsomethingthismonumental.Thatshed whoredaroundonhim,playinghimforthefool,wasbad

enough.Buttobecomplicitinthe rest Oncethenewsbroke,hedbepitiedbysome,scornedbythe rest. Butitbeatthehelloutofdying. Determined,heshovedKathibackanarmslengthawaybut retainedabruisingholdonherupperarm.Itshamedhimto knowthat,forevenasecond, Kathihadthoughthedgoalongwithhisdaughtersmurder. Decidingonacourseofdamagecontrol,hestartedacross thelawntowardthehouse. Bishop?Kathiresistedhimwitheachstep. Calmly,tokeepheroffguard,Bishopsaid,Comewithme now. Oh.Yes,ofcourse.Shedrewabreathandstoppedfighting him.Whatarewegoingtodonext? Atthefrontofthehouse,hefoundtheotherguardstanding there,darksunglassesinplace,butwithanalertstance. BishopstoppedinfrontofhimandshovedKathiforward. Wereyoufuckingher,too? No!Kathireachedoutforhim,buthekeptheraway. Bishop,shepleaded,dontbelikethis. Startled,theguardwentverystill.Too? George,hesaid. Theguardpushedhissunglassestothetopofhishead;he didntsomuchaslookatKathi.No,sir. Thereliefwasoverwhelming.Doyouvalueyourjob,then? Withouthesitation,heaffirmed,Yes,sir.Verymuch. Thenrestrainher.HepushedKathiforward,andtheguard automaticallycaughtbothofherarms.Liftinghisphoneto

punchinanumber,Bishopsaid, Thepolicewillbeheresoonenough. No!Kathifoughtwithadecidedlackofclassorrefinement. Bishopturnedawayfromher,buthecouldnttuneoutthe awfulnoise.Andhecouldnttuneoutthegrindingguilt. CHRISDIDNTLIKEITwhenthealarmsystemglitched, shuttingoffandbackon.Twice.Itresetitselfasitwas programmedtodo,butstillhestewed.Had theweatheraffectedthings?Itwouldntbethefirsttimethe weatherhadtrippedsomething.Itwasallelectrical,butona backupsystem,too. Goingtotheporchoutside,Chrislookeddownthehilltothe lake. Thoughcolderwindsbuffetedhimandhecouldsmellthe impendingrainintheair,itwasntallthatbadyet.Beyond thelake,tothenorthbehindthehills, hesawblackcloudsrollinginandbringingwiththem brilliantburstsoflightning. Bothdogsnervouslycircledhislegs,almosttrippinghim. Sargiewhined,andTaiputherearsback.Noisyweather sometimesspookedthem,butthis wasoddbehavior,especiallysincethethunderhadntyet reachedthem. Hecroucheddowntotalktothem.Whatsthematter,Tai? Theresnonoiseyet.Darewillprobablybehomebeforethe raingetshere,soyoudontneed toworry.Shecrowdedinclosetohim,makingherworry clear.

Sargie,alwaysthejealoussort,wormedinfrontofTaito soakuphisattention,too.Shewhinedinanxiety. Laughing,Chrisdroppedtohisassandletthedogscrawl overhim.Tohelpputthematease,hetussledwiththema little,playedandpetted.Inmere minutes,theskiesdarkenedenoughthatthesecuritylights flickeredon. Sargieturnedandstartedafuriousbarking.Shelooked towardChrisshouse,butChrissawnothingamiss. Whatsthematter,sweetie?Didaleafspookyou?Istherea frogdeservingofyourwrath?Often,whenDarewasaway, thedogsspookedeasily. Doesntsaymuchaboutyourtrustofmyabilities,doesit? Thelakegrewturbulent,rushinguptotheshoretosplash overrocksandplantsbeforeebbingoutagain.Fishjumped. Birdscircled,swoopinglow. Helovednature.Helovedhisplacehere. IfMollybecameapermanentfixture,woulditchange anythingforhim?Helikedher.Daremorethanlikedher. Damnit,hedidntwanttobeathirdwheel Thesoundofacarsentthedogsboundingawayandaround thehouseinbarkingexcitement.Chriswasquicktofollow.It hadtobeDare,becauseno oneelsecouldgetpastthegates. ButwhenhesawDareleavingthecar,heknewsomething waswrong.ThelookonDaresfacesaiditall. Molly,blessher,didntappeartonotice.Shetookhertime greetingthedogsandlaughingattheirenthusiastic welcome. Quietly,Chrissaid,Whatisit?

Thegatewastamperedwith. Shit.Howso? Lookedlikesomeonetriedtopryopenthecontrolbox.The plantsonthegroundarounditweretrampled. Chrischewedhisbottomlipashethought.Everything flickeredtwice,butcamerightbackon. Yeah.Darelookedaround,thengotknockedbackastep whenSargiejumpeduptogreethim.BecauseMollywas watching,Darelaughedandlet Sargiesnufflearoundhisfacebeforedroppingdownagain, racingoffandbackfromMollytoDare.Sheevenincluded Chrisinhergusto,thoughhed beenwithherthewholetime. TaicameoverandleanedonDareuntilshedhadherfillof gentleattention. Mollylookedupatthesky.Itsgoingtobeastorm. Stormsonthelakearesomethingtosee,Daretoldher. Taigrabbedherattentionbyturningandpresentingherbutt forMollytoscratch.Chrislaughed.Onherbackjustabove hertailisherfavoritespot. Dutifully,Mollybentdowntoscratch. TurninghisbackonMolly,Dareasked,Everythingsecure inside? Iwasinthereuntiljustafewminutesago.Noonecould havegottenin. Whataboutyourplace? Damn.ThedogswerebarkingHeshookhishead.But youknowhowtheygetspookedwhenyourenotaround, andthenwiththestormIdidntsee anythingoranyone.

Idontwanttotakeanychances.Concentratedintheway hegotwhileworking,Daresearchedtheimmediategrounds. TakeMollyinsidewhileIlook around. Notagoodidea.Chrisstoppedhim.Ifsomethingcomes up,youshouldbewithher.Ifsomeonehasintruded,shes theonetheywant. Darelookeddownrightlethaloverthatpossibility. Gogethersettled,Chrissaid.Illcheckoutmyplace,lock itupandcomerightback. HeknewDaredidntlikethatplan,butMollyjoinedthem, and,giventhatshewasthepriorityrightnow,hegavein. Finishupandthencomebacktothe house,ASAP. Mollyfrownedoverthecurtorder,soChriswasquicktosay, Illgiveyouafullreportonthedogsinjustafewminutes. Coffeeisreadytogoallyouhave todoisswitchiton. Thanks.DaregatheredMollycloseintohisside.Comeon. Letsgetinbeforeitstartstorain. Whataboutourstuff? Myjob,Chrissaid,walkingbackwardafewsteps.Atthe sideofthehouse,heturned.Damnit,nowDarehadhim feelinganxiouswhenhedoubted therewasreasontobe.Illberightback. Becausehejoggedoff,Sargiedecidedtofollowhim.Usually shedbegluedtoDaresside,butshethoughtChriswas playing,andhonestly,hedidnt mindthecompany.Comeon,girl.Wellgetthisoverwith beforewegetsoaked.

Tellinghimselfthateverythingwasfine,Chriswentdown thelightedpathtohisfrontdoor.Tallbuddingtrees, swayinginthewind,surroundedthe perimeterofhissmallerhome. Sargiefoundastick,tosseditandthenchaseditdownagain. Thoughthedogwasnolongerconcerned,Chrisfeltaneerie senseofuneasinessedgeuphisspine.Helookedatthe curtainsonhisfrontwindows.He wasalmostcertainthathedleftthemopen,butnowthey wereclosed. Hisjawlocked.WithSargierightathisside,heopenedthe frontdoor,deliberatelymakingnoise.StealthwasDares thing;hedprefertoconfrontany intrudersheadonorbetteryet,givethemthechanceto hightailitoutoftherewithoutanyconfrontationatall. Aflipofthewallswitchshowedthatthecombinedliving room,kitchenanddiningroomwasempty. Now. Butfootprintsonhiscarpetmeantthatsomeonehadbeen inside.Theycamefromthehallwayleadingtohisback bedroom.Crushedleaves,dirt,mulch allthethingsaroundtheoutsideofhiswindowsatthe backofhissmallhouse. Chrisstareddownthehalltowardthebedroom,tookone stepinthatdirectionandsmelledthesmoke. Oh,shit.HesteppedbacktothefrontdoortoyellforDare andfoundhimalreadycomingdowntheslope. DarehadtheGlockinhishand,andhelookedreally,really pissed.

 GETOUTOFTHERE,DareshoutedtoChris.Taifollowed onhisheels,butDareknewhewouldntbeabletodissuade herfromfollowing.AfterTraces call,itwasallhecoulddotogivestrictorderstoMolly beforegoingafterChris. Tracetoldhimthatthecarhedfollowedwasmissingafew people,andwhenhequestionedakaforcedanswers fromthelonemanleftbehind,he wastoldtheyweresettingupadistractionatthesmaller housesothattheycouldgrabthewoman. ThetypeofdistractioniswhatreallyshookDare. Furious,Chrislookedbackathisplace,undecided,Dare knew,onwhethertotrytoputoutthefireortodoasDare instructed.Hestillstoodinthe doorframe. Darecursed.Move,damnit,itsaHiswordswere swallowedbyaloudblast. Flamesshotoutoftheshatteredwindows,andChrishurtled facefirstoutthedoorandontotheground. No.Runningnow,DarereachedChrisjustasherolledover ontohisbackwithagroan. DarehadtopushTaiawayfromChris;shewasasworriedas Darewas.KneelingoverChris,Daresawtherisinglumpon hisforeheadwherehed landedagainstarock.HetookChrissshoulderand demandedaresponse.Saysomething,damnit. Chriscoughed. ThankGod. IfChrishadbeenanyfartherinthehousewhentheblast

happened,heprobablywouldhavebeenkilled.Buttheyhad littletimeforrejoicingrightnow. Dareleanedoverhim.Anythingbroken? No.Chrisshookhishead,butstilledthatmovementreal fast,wincingasheraisedahandtohishead.Jesus,what wasthat? Fuckingbomb.Ifyouresureyoureokay,Ineedtogetyou clearincaseanythingelsegoesoff. Yeah,Imokay.Hestartedtostruggleupright. Letme.Darehoistedhimtohisfeet,butChrisslegs wobbled.Hewashurt,anditscaredDaresodamnbadhe hadtoclenchhisjawtokeepfrom howling.HelockedanarmaroundChris,turnedandfound Mollystandingthere,herhandstwistingtogether,her expressionashen. RedhotragehammeredinsideDare.Shewassupposedto belockedinside,safe. Beforehecouldspeak,shedid. Theyreinthehouse,Dare.Herpalelipstrembled.A windowbrokeandthealarmwentoff,butsomeoneshutit down.Shepanted,gulpedair,and whispered,Iheardthem.IIcouldntstayintherewith them.ShecoveredhermouthasshelookedatChris.Oh, myGod,isheokay? Ahandpressedtohishead,hisnosebleeding,Chrisnodded. Yeah.Inasmokyrasp,heasked,DidSargiecomeout? Mollyseyeswidened,andjustthateasily,herownfear evaporated.ShelookedbeyondChris,gaspedandtookoff running.Illgether! Darewentblankwithpanic.No!

ButMollydidntlisten.Christ,ifanythingelseblew Neverinhislifehadhebeensodivided.Donewithdelaysof anykind,DareliftedChrishalfoverhisshoulder,making himmoanandcurse,thenmoved himseveralyardsaway.Heeasedhimdowntotheground againstthebaseofalargeoaktreeandtoldTaiinthe sternestvoiceshedprobablyever heardfromhim,Stay. Earsflattened,sheploppeddownbesideChriswitha heartbrokenwhimper.Evenashurtashemightbe,Chris lockedahandinTaiscollar,andDare knewthatshortofpassingout,Chriswouldntlethergo. IthadtakenhimmeresecondstosettleChris,butinthat time,Mollycouldbecaughtinanotherexplosion. Bloodrushinghot,Darerosetogoafterherandshecame trippingoutthefrontdoorofthehouse,leadingSargie. Reliefnearlydisabledhim. Dareshovedthegunintohiswaistbandandreachedthemin afewlongstrides. Sargiewaspanting,eyeswide,asmuchinpanicasfromthe smokethatnowcoloredherbeautifulfur.Mollyhadtears trackinghercheeks. Butneitherofthemappearedtobeinjured. Daregrabbedthembothandpracticallydraggedthemupto Chris. Shewascowereddown,scared,behindthedoor,Molly babbled.Ithinkthedooriswhatkepthersafe.Shecame righttome,though.Shesgoingtobe okay,isntshe,Dare? Shellbefine.

AndChris?Onherknees,MollyjerkedaroundtoChrisand smoothedhishairawayfromthebloodonhisforehead.Oh, God,Chris,youcouldhave beenkilled. Dareseyesburned.Afterallhisfuckingassurances,allhis confidentpromises,Mollycouldhavebeenkilled,toobut hecouldntthinkaboutthatright now. Shedsavedhisdog. Heclosedhiseyes,overwhelmedandoutofcontrol.Butthat justmadehimrelivethemomentwhenshedrushedinto Chrisshouse,whenhedrealized whathedloseifanythinghappenedtoher. Hehadtogetittogether. Afteradeepbreath,Daresaidsoftly,butwithirondemand, Bequietnow. Mollylookedathim,buthedidntmeethergaze.Shewould unravelhimifhedid.Hecouldntsootheheryet,couldnt crushhercloseortellher Hesawedhisteethtogetherandclearedhismind. Undercover,hepassedtheguntoChrisandclosedhishand aroundittoensurehehadagoodhold.Okay? Christookabreath.Yeah.Gotit. ButChrisdidntlookgood.Heprobablyhadadamned concussionorworse.Dareshearttwisted Imupforit,Dare.Justgo. Mollysmouthopenedtwicebeforeshegasped,Gowhere? Whatareyoutalkingabout? Darecouldntseemtomakehimselfmove.Ifthisallwent wrong,iftheintrudersspottedChriswiththatgun,theyd

shoothimdead.Fuck.Fuck,fuck,fuck. Hefilledhislungs,andtastedsmoke.YouknowIloveyou, Chris. Chrisfocusedpainfilledeyesonhim.God,man,notnow.Ill live,Iswear.Andthen,grudgingly,hemuttered,Butyeah, loveyou,too. ThatexchangeonlyworkedtofurtherinciteMollysfear.She grabbedDaresarm.Whatareyoudoing?Weneedtoget outofhere. HepeeledherhandawayandguidedittoSargiescollar. Keepthedogshereforme.Donotletthemgo.Hecouldnt lookather;ifhesawher expressiveeyes,hedfalter.Remember,therearetwoof them. Hehadtospeakloudertobeheardoverthecracklingof wood,thehissingasthefireconsumedChrisshome.Smoke billowedintotheairandthe flameslickedthesky,sendinganeerieorangeglowtodance overeverythingintheimmediatearea. HedtoldMollythathewouldkeepthestoryquiet,buthow couldhedothatnow?Hehadntcountedonthecrazyfucks blowingupChrisshouse.Evenif thesecuritysystemwasntsettoalerttheauthorities,the firewoulddrawthem. Dareturnedtogazeupathisownhomejustastwomen steppedout.Blackhoodscoveredtheirheadsandfaces. Seeingthemkickedhiminto automaticpilot. Heknewwhattodo,andheddoit. Narrowinghisconcentration,Darewatchedtheirbodies,

howtheymoved,howtheyheldthemselves.Herecognized GeorgeWallace,theguardfrom BishopAlexandershome.Themanhadadistinctivestance andtellingbodylanguage. Theothermanhehadntyetmet,butheknewhistypeand whathewanted,whathewascapableof. Eachofthemenheldguns. Withouttakinghisattentionoffofthem,DaresaidtoMolly, StayherewithChris.Do.Not.Move. HecouldfeelMollywatchinghim,butshesaidnotaword. Sensingdanger,bothdogswentberserk.Mollyhugged Sargie,restrainedTai,andtriedtoshushthem. Withagroan,Chrisrepositionedhimself,turningtogeta goodviewbutkeepingmostlyconcealedbehindthetrees.I gotthis,Dare.Noworries. Nodding,Darestoodandsteppedoutintotheopen.He composedhimselfashewentuptothemen.Alltheemotion hadtobeputaside.Rage,worry Hecouldntthinkaboutthatrightnow. Deliberately,hewentcoldandhard.Onestepatatime,not racingbutnothesitant,either,heclosedthedistance betweenhimselfandthetwomenwho werenowhistargets. Theyhadbrokenintohishome,hadtriedtokillhisbest friendandhadpossiblyinjuredhisdogs. Theyweremenwhowantedtoharmhiswoman. Dareflexedhisneck,hisknuckles.Thesideofhismouth liftedinadeadlysmile.Hewasready. Hell,hewasmorethanready. Georgesteppedforward.Thatsfarenough.

Darestopped,hisstancecasual,unconcerned.Wheresthe thirdguy,George? Hisbodyquickenedwithsurprise.Whatareyoutalking about? YouthoughtIdidntknow?Irecognizedyourightoff.Dare shookhishead.Youaresofuckingdead,hetoldhimand startedwalkingagain. Georgeliftedthegunhigher.Stop,goddamnit! Darestopped,butonlytosay,Whatdoyouwantwithher? Feelingincontrolagain,Georgelaughed.Itsjustagame.No onesgoingtokillher. Soyoureplayingwithher?Why? Georgeshrugged.Morelikedetainingher. InMexico? Outofsight,outofmind. KnowingMollywasprobablylistening,butseeingnohelp forit,Darenodded.Isee.SoitisKathi,huh? Bothmenwentstill. Idiots.Bishophadsuspectedhiswifeafterherridiculous sceneinthelibrary.No,hehadntnamedher,butDarehad suspectedher,too.KnowingBishop likelyhadhisownagenda,Darehadntruledoutother possibilities. Butthenhedseenthatmostrecenthatefulletterfromthe postoffice.Noreturnaddress,butthepostmarkshowedit wasmailedfromwithinthesame town. Fessupnow,Daretoldthem,andIllletyougo.Togive theliecredence,heshowedhisteethinasemblanceofa smile.Otherwise,Iturnyouoverto

thefeds. Bullshit.Thoughitwasfallingapartaroundhim,George triedtoblusterhiswaythrough.Youcantdoanything. Youknowbetterthantobelievethat. HeaimedthegunatDareschest.Noonewantsthewoman killed.Butyou,youreplentyfuckingexpendable. Daresexpressiondidntchange.Yourealreadytoolate,you know. ThemanwithGeorgegotantsy,takinghisattentionback andforthbetweenGeorgeandDare.Whatshetalking about? Shutup,Georgetoldhisaccomplice.Hetookastepoffthe porchtowardDare.Hedoesntmeananything. Thatsnotpreciselytrue.Theminuteyoufuckedwithmy security,areportwentout.Copswillbehereanyminute.On topofthat,Iknewallalongthatyou werefollowingme.WhenIstoppedatthatrestaurant?That wasjusttogivemyfriendachancetofollowyou.Dare lookedbeyondthemand,asifhesaw someone,said,Rightontime. Thesecondmanjerkedaroundtofacethenewthreatand Chrisshothiminthebackofhisshoulder.Theimpactofthe bulletpropelledhimforwardand intothebackwall.Hesankdowntotheground. Georgelookedoverathisbuddyforonlyasecond,andDare chargedhim.Georgejerkedupintimetogetoffasingleshot, butthebulletonlygrazed Daresarm. Nowayinhellwouldthatslowhimdown. Asiftheydtimedit,theskiesopenedupinatorrential

downpour.Daretackledtheguard,andtheybothwentdown hardontotheporch.Georgeshead gaveasatisfyingthudagainsttheconcrete.Thegunskittered outofhislimphand. Anothershotsounded,andDareglancedovertoseeChris standingthere,soakedtotheskin,therainminglingwiththe bloodtotraildownhisface. Thoughhewaveredonhisfeet,heheldthegunsecurein bothhands. Hedshottheothermanagaintoensurehewouldntbea threat,justasDarehadalwaysinstructedhimtodo. Usinghiselbow,DarestruckGeorgeinthejawandfeltthe tensioninhisbodyslacken.Grabbinghimbytheshirtfront, hehauledhimuptopunchhim hard,once,twice. Hewantedtokillthesonofabitch.Theneedtokillclawed insidehim. ButhehadpromisedMolly.Andsheneededthewholetruth, everywordofit.Hecouldntgetthatfromadeadman. Withaneffort,Darepulledback. Georgewasutterlylimp. Withhistwistedsenseofhumor,Chrisasked,Youdone? No.DaregrabbedthehoodandyankeditoffofGeorges bloodiedandbatteredface.Hisnosewasbroken,hisjaw alreadyturningpurple.Imjust gettingstarted. CHAPTERTWENTYFIVE DAREPUSHEDTOHISfeetandlookedatChris.Yousure youreokay?

Yeah.Hecurledhislip.ButitsnotlikeIdcomplainabout abumpontheheadorthisfreezingrain,notwithyou standingthereallmacho,adamnbullet inyourarm. Shit,Iforgotaboutthat.Darerealizedthenthathisarm washalfnumb,halfaching.Itwasjustagraze,Ithink. Chrisrolledhiseyesandalmostfellover. DarelookedaroundforMolly.Frozen,drenched,shestood severalyardsawayrightwherehedtoldhertostaywith ahandlatchedontothecollarof eachdog. Godloveher.Molly,comehere. Evenfromthedistancehecouldseeherhardswallow.She startedsloggingforwardthroughthedownpour,half draggedalongbythedogs. Youcanletthemgo. Georgestirred,regainingDaresattention.Theresathird manwithTrace,butjustincase,dontletdownyourguard. DarepickedupGeorgesgun, kickedtheothermansgunoutofreach,andthenchecked thembothforanyotherweapons. Atthementionofathirdman,Chrisstartedscanningthe area. Thedogsweresubdued,upset,watchful.Theycrept forward,earsandheadsdown,bodylanguageshowingtheir fear.TheywantedDaresattentionand couldntunderstandthecircumstances. Daretookamomenttoreassurethemboth.Goodgirl,he toldSargie.HestrokedTaiswetfur.Itsokay,baby. Huggingherself,hereyemakeuptrailingdownherface,

Mollystoodcoldandsilent,justoutofhisreach. Hestartedtogotoher,buttodowhat?Thiswasfarfrom over,andnowthewholeworldwouldknowwhathad happenedtoher. Wouldshebeabletoforgivehimforunderestimatingthe situation? Tracecamearoundthesideofthehousewithanotherman intow.Thefellowsfacewasbloody,oneeyeswollenshut, hishandsboundbehindhim. Hewasthelookoutinthecar,Tracesaidwithoutmuch inflection.Hestheonewhotoldmeaboutthebomb.He pushedtheguytothegroundtosit. So.Everyoneokay? IttookalottorileTracewhenonthejob. Yeah,wereallfine.Darefeltfreezingraintricklingdown hisback.AsMollyhadsaid,finewasasubjectiveterm. WheresAlani? Inside.TraceglancedatChris,whistled,andsaid,Youlook likehell.Maybeyoushouldjoinher. Gladly,ChrishandedthegunovertoTraceandturnedto Molly,gesturingtoher.Comeon,hon.HegaveDareamean look.Letsgogetdriedoff. Sheblinkedhardandfast,swallowedagain. Darewantedtoreachouttoher,buthecouldnttouchher. Notyet.ToChrishesaid,Yeah,takeherinside. Iwasalreadydoingthat,damnit. Chriswaspissedathimandnottryingtohideit.Butthen, ChrisdidntunderstandjusthowemotionallyinvolvedDare wasthistime. Mollyungluedherfeetfromthemudandstompedupto

Dare.Herbottomliptrembled,shemadeafist,andthenshe thumpedhiminthechest. Unsurewhatthatwasabout,Darecaughtherhandandheld herstill.Goinside,Molly.Changeyourclothes.Illbein soon. Shejuststoodthere,lookingequalpartsfuriousand frightened.Sheshookherheadandsaid,Dare Chriswrappedanarmaroundher.Shh.Comeon,now.He knowswhathesdoing. Allthis,shewhispered,hervoicebreaking.Allthis becauseofme. ChrisglaredatDareagain. Knowinghedhavetosaysomethingtoher,Daresaid, Thatsnonsense.Nowgoin. Traceliftedabrow.Realsmooth,Dare.Icanfeelthelove fromoverhere. Georgegroaned,andhalfsatup. MollypushedawayfromChris,saying,Illgoin,butyou shouldhelphim. WhywouldIhelphim?Hetookpartinburningdownmy house. ShesluggedChris,too,butnotashardasshedhitDare.Not him,youidiot.Dare. Chrisgrinned,anditwasalopsided,ridiculouslookingthing consideringthedamagetohishead.Believeme,Dare doesntneedanyhelpwiththat trash.Now,comeon.Alaniisinside,andIknowshedlike thecompany. Goon,Daresaidtohisgirls.They,too,weresoakedbut thankstoMolly,theywerebothaliveandwell.Gowith

Chris. Chriscalledthedogstohim,andMolly,almostbyrote, caughtSargiescollar. DaresaidtoChris,CallHenrietta.Seeifyoucangetherout here,thesoonerthebetter. Illtellheryoullpaydouble,Chrissaid.AndthentoMolly, Henriettaisthevet,andherbusinesshoursareoverforthe day.ButwhenIthrowaround Daresmoney,businesshoursmeannothing. MollyputanarmaroundChristohelpsteadyhim.Sargie almostpulledheroffherfeet,andTai,afteronelookback, caughtuptoChris.Theymadea widebertharoundthedownedmenandwentinthroughthe kitchen. ThestrangestthinghappenedtoDare.Hewatchedthemall untiltheywereoutofsight,andhefeltwhole.Completein awayheneverhadbefore. Hehadthreemenonthegroundinfrontofhim,oneofthem maybedead,andstill,itwasthebestfeelingever. Tracelookedathisarm.Letswrapthisup.YouandChris couldbothusealittlemedicalattention. Right.WithMollyoutofsight,Daregrinnedattheman Tracehadcontributed.Ihavesomequestionsfirst. Fuckyo Daresboothithimintheribs,andhedoubledover, wheezinginpain. Georgesurgedtohisfeetandtriedtothrowapunch,but Daregrabbedhishandandsqueezedandfeltafewfingers break.Georgebellowed,and Darewasquicktowrapanarmaroundhismouth.Shutup.

Youregoingtofrightenhermore,andIdontwantthatto happen.Doyouunderstandme? Hisfacecontortedinpain,Georgenodded. Good.Darelethimgoandhelpedhimtositbackdown. Now,youcananswermyquestions,orIcanbreakmore bones.Uptoyouandbelieveme, Imfineeitherway. Outofthecornerofhiseye,hesawTracesteptotheside,his phonetohisear.Hisfriendwouldcallthisin,butbefore anyonearrived,Darewouldknow everything.Afterthat,thelawcouldhavethemall. ONCETHEYWEREinsidethehouse,Mollywentforseveral towels.ShefoundAlanisittingstiffandfrightenedinthe livingroom,andratherthancoddle her,shesaid,Comeon.Icoulduseyourhelp. Alanijumpedtoherfeet.Whatshappening? DareandTracehavethemensubdued.Itsfine.Afterthey gatheredupseveralthicktowels,sheledAlanitothefoyer, whereChrisandthedogs waited.Helpmedrythem. Alanitookherarm.Illhandlethedogs.Youshouldgo change. Mollylookeddownatherselfandwinced.Thecoldhad seepedintoherbones,andshewonderedifshedeverbe warmagain. Goon,Christoldher. Letmehelpyouchangefirst.Sheputherarmaroundhim again.Daresclotheswillfityou.

Christriedtoobject,butshedidntlethim.Heheldit together,butanyonecouldseethattheknocktothehead hadhurthimbadly. InDaresbathroom,shestrippedoffChrissshirtandgave himacrewnecksweatshirttowear. Hisblackhairwasplasteredtohishead,insomeplaces stuckwithblood.Hisblueeyeslookedvague.Andstillhe teased,saying,Touchmyshortsand weregoingtohaveaproblem. Modesty?Mollyasked,pretendingeverythingwasnormal, insteadofchaoticandinsane. NoonehaschangedmypantsformesinceIwasfive.He leanedagainstthesink.Goonandgetyourselfchanged.I candoit. Mollynodded.Tellmebeforeyoucomeout,becauseIm goingtochange,too. Iwontpeekifyoudont. Shefoundahalfgrinoverthat,buthonestly,shewassocold andscared,andsodevastated,thatshefeltanesthetized. ShedjustfinishedpullingononeofDaresbigflannelshirts andapairoftheshortshedboughtherinSanDiegowhen thedogscamerunningin.Alani haddoneagoodjobatdryingthem,butSargieseyeswere stilltooredandherfurshowedsignsofsmoke. Mollyscomposurealmostcracked.Poorbaby,she whisperedandwentdowntoherkneestohugthedogs again. Chrisasked,Youdressed? Alaniansweredforher.Comeonout. Nowwiththemallrelativelywarmanddry,Chrissatonthe

bedandusedthephonetocallthevet.ItamazedMollyhow heteasedwithHenriettaand coercedherintoahousecallwithoutreallytellingher anythingthathadhappened. Whenhehungup,Mollysaid,Shouldntwecallthepolice? Thesecurityalarmdoesthatautomatically.Butiftheyget heretoosoon,thebastardswillcalltheirlawyersandDare wontbeabletogettheinfohe wants.Eyesclosed,hedroppedbackonthebed.LetDare findoutwhatsgoingonwhilehestillhastheopportunity. SargieleapedupontothebedtosnufflearoundChrissface untilhegaveupandsatforwardagain.Mollystartedtosay morewhentheyallheardthe sirens. Shit.Thatsoundslikethefiredepartment.Someonemust haveseenthesmoke.Lookingsteadierbytheminute,Chris pushedoffthebed.Ihavetotell Darethathistimeiscutshort. Daresteppedintothebedroomdoorframe.Noneed. Mollyshrankback.DaredidntlooklikeDare.Therewasa vibratingtensionabouthim,asettohismouthand harshnessinhisgazethatwasmore dominantthananythingshedeverseen.Hedwrappedhis shirtaroundhisinjuredarm,leavinghiminasoakedTshirt andsoddenjeans. Helookedrugged,capable. Deadly. Andhedshutherout. Shefeltlikeastrangertohim.Itrippedupherhearttothink ofhowhurtheandhisfriendhadbeen,allbecauseofher.

AlanididntseemtonoticeDaresdominantmanner.She wentovertohimandhuggedhimtight,totallyateasewith himinthisstrangemood.Wheres Trace? Keepingwatchonourgoons.Hekissedherforehead.Why dontyouandChrisgostartsomecoffee?Wecouldalluse it. AlanilookedbackatMollyand,withunderstanding,nodded herconsent. Thedogsboundedoffthebedandwenttohim.Dareknelt downtogivethemtheattentiontheysobadlyneededfrom him.Hisgentletone,filledwith sympathy,wentalongwaytowardcalmingthedogs. Mollyneededattention,too,butshedidntwanttoforce herselfonhim. Thefrettingwasawful,unbearable,sosheaskedina whisper,Didyoukillanyone? TheoneChrisshotmightnotmakeit.Helookedup, consideringherforonlyamomentbeforeadding,Anddont youdarefeelbadaboutthat. Shebitherlip.Okay. Grudgingly,orsoitseemed,Daresaid,Theothertwo shouldbefine. Herchesthurt.Youreokay? Yeah.Hisgazewasdirect,intense.You? Imfine.Slidingoffthebed,shewentovertohim.He stayeddownononekneewithSargiesqueezedupagainst hischestandTailollingonherbackto getherbellyrubbed. Withhimlookingdownatthedogs,talkingsoftlytothem,

Mollycouldseethenapeofhisneck,thebreadthofhis shouldersandthemusclesinhisback. Sheputahandinhiswethairandherkneesalmostgave out.Tryingtomakehervoicestrong,sheasked,Youwere shot? Bulletgrazedmyarm.Itsnothing. Stillsmoothinghiswethair,shesankdownbesidehim.She wantedtograbhim,kisshimalloverandbeghimtowhat? Shejustdidntknow.Everything feltsouncertainnow. Already,bloodsoakedthroughtheshirtwrappedaroundhis nothinginjury.Youneedtogotothehospital. Heturnedhisfacesothatherhandwasonhisjaw.Trace calledparamedicsfortheguyChrisshot.Hisgazelockedon tohersagainandheldher captive.Theyllbehereanyminute. Iloveyou.Shewantedtosayitsobadly,butthiswasntthe time.Theydsoonbeoverrunwithcopsandother emergencypersonnel.Heneededmedical care,asdidChris.Thedogswerestillfrightened. Therewereathousandreasonsnottoburdenhimwithher emotionalexcesses.Butoh,God,itwashardkeepingherself incheck. Thankyou,Molly. Drawinginashudderingbreath,Mollywhispered,For what? HerubbedSargiesear,pulledthedogclosetokissherhead, hugherintohischest.Yousavedher. Hisvoicesoundedstrained,thick.Youwouldhavedoneit. ButwithChrishurt

Hischestexpanded.WhenIsawyougointothehouse Breathinghard,hesqueezedhiseyesshut,andhisvoice wentharsh.Iveneverbeenso fuckingterrified. Hesoundedangry,sendingregrettochurnwiththerestof heroverwhelmingemotion.Imsorry. Dont.Hiseyesflinched.Youhavenoreasontoapologize. Hell,Ishouldbeapologizing. Sheshookherhead,notunderstandinghim. HelookedbacktoTai.Iscaredyou. No. Thelookhegavehersaidliar.Andthathurt. Defensive,Mollyshrugged.Okay,youdid.Justalittle.But notlikenotlikeIwasafraidforme.Iwouldnever,everfear youthatway. Thenhow? Youwerelikeaamachine.Sheputbothhandstohisface, holdinghim,wantinghimtoknowthetruth.Yousomehow tooktheloveyouhaveforChris, andyouturneditonthosemen.Notinanemotionalway, butitwassocold. Methodical,hecorrected. Yes.Shelickeddrylips.Thatyoucouldrefocuslikethat, thatswhatscaredme. ItsnecessaryforthejobIdo. Butthattypeofpowermeanthecouldshutoutanyoneand anything.Howcouldheeverreallycareforawomanifhe couldsoeasilyturnhisemotionson andoff? Scowling,hesaid,IfIhadnt

Shenodded.Iknow.Sheevenmanagedanuncertainsmile asreassurancethatshedidunderstand.Imsoveryglad thatyoureokay. Disregardingtheinjurytohisarm,hereachedforher, hugginghersotightlythatittookherbreath. Dare? Inaflattone,hetoldher,Itsover. Shefroze. Itwasyourstepmother,honey.Allofit.Sometwisted,sick ideaofprotectingBishopfromyourgrowingpopularity. Kathi?Sheshouldnthavebeensurprised,butAstrange reliefovertookher.SoitwasntDad? Daresmoothedbackherhair,cuppedherjaw.Georgescell phonerangalittlebitago.ItwasBishop.Hegotafull confessionfromKathi. Herthoughtswentblank.Dadcalled? Yeah.Hesaidthatthecopsareathishouserightnow.Dare rubbedhershoulder.Hewantedtowarnyou,honey,and callingGeorgesphonewasthe onlywayheknewtomaybereachus. Mollystruggledtoassimilateallthat.Youdontlook surprised. No. Andthensheremembered.IheardwhatyousaidtoGeorge. YouknewitwasKathi,didntyou? Aftertalkingwiththem,Ithoughtshewasprobably involved.Bishopapparentlythoughtso,too.Thatswhyhe saidhewantedtocheckintothings. Dareexplainedtoheraboutthepostmark,thewayKathi spokesofamiliarlyofMarkSagan,andhowprotectiveshe

wasofBishop. WhatIdidntknow,Georgegladlyfilledin. Gladly,huh? Heshrugged.Imsorry,Molly.Kathiwantedtomakeyou understandherideaofmorality,thatyouprotectwhatyou have,oryouloseit.Noroomfor mistakes,noroomforhumanerror. Thinkingaloud,shewhispered,ThecharacterthatI redeemed InKathismind,thereisnoredemption.Theresonlythe perfectappearance.Histhumbbrushedthecornerofher mouth.Iguessshefiguredifyouwere goingtofindfame,ithadtobewithhermoralcode,with characterssheapprovedof. Iwonderifsheeverreallyenjoyedmywork,orifshejust readittokeeptabsonme.Itmadesense,becausethe minuteherpopularityreallybloomed, Kathitookactionagainsther. Darebenttoputasoftkissonherlips.AccordingtoGeorge, sheneverintendedtokillyou.Shejustwantedtothrowoff themoviedeal.Oncethe opportunitywaslost,shewasgoingtohaveyoureleased. ArushofangershotthroughMolly.Imightnothave survivedthatlong! Asifthatthoughthurthim,Darebrieflyclosedhiseyes. Refusingtodwellonherstepmothersdeviousness,Mollylet herthoughtsskipaheadtootherdetails.SheandGeorge? Theywerehavinganaffair.ButGeorgewasnttheonlyone. KathiwassleepingwithSagan,too. Soyouwererightaboutthat.ItamazedMolly,howmuch

Darehadfiguredout,howhedputthepuzzlepieces together. ThatshowKathiarrangedeverything.WhenGeorgefound out,hehadthissickneedtoprovehimselftoher. Notbeingadummy,Mollyguessed,BykillingSagan? HisdeathwouldtakecareofanyevidenceagainstKathi, andremoveSaganasathreattoherortoBishop.ButGeorge wasinwayoverhishead.IfI hadntbustedhimnow Saganwouldhavehadhimmurdered. Thatsaboutit.Footstepssoundedinthehallway,andDare stood,bringingMollyupwithhim. KathineverwouldhaveleftDadforahiredguard. Georgewasokaywithcarryingonanaffair.Hesaidshewas worthit.Daresmouthtwisted.Buthewasalsofinancially compensated. Somoneywasabettermotivethanlove. Shepaidhimwithherownallowance,whichIgatheris substantial. Itis.Kathihadoftenbraggedabouttheextravagances Bishoplavishedonher.Hewantedhiswifetowearthebest ofeverything,drivethebestbethe best.Theironygavehernosatisfaction.IguessDadwas devastated? Darescowled.Alittlenumb. Iunderstandthat. Thingis,Daresaid,atleastnowhellbealive.Ifforno otherreasonthantocleanuplooseends,Saganwouldhave killedhimafterhegotridofKathi andGeorge.

DearGod.Abhorrenceleftherfeelingsick.Somuch scheming. Allofitcenteredaroundyourstepmother.Dareliftedher chin.Idontgetit.Shesattractiveenough,butshesnothing special,sowhythesemenwere soanxioustowinherover Underthecircumstances,youhardlysawthebestofher. Mostofthetime,shesacharminghostess.Foraslongas Mollycouldremember,shed enjoyedherstepmotherscompanymorethanherfathers. Isawtherealher.Thatswhateveryoneshouldsee.He kissedher,andthatfeltsogood,sorealandhonest,that Mollydidntwantittoeverend. Slidinghishandintoherwethair,Dareignoredthe uniformedofficernowstandingtherewatching.Outside earlierImsorryifIhurtyourfeelings. Youhadalotonyourmind.Shetouchedhisjaw.Imsorry thatIpunchedyou. Halfsmiling,Dareputhisforeheadtohers.Icouldntlookat you,honey.Iknewyouwerescared,andasmuchasIneeded toseparatefromeverything thathadjusthappened,andhowIfeltaboutit,IknewI couldnt,notifIsawhowthosebastardshadaffectedyou. Hekissedheragain,harderthistime. Theofficerclearedherthroat. Giveusaminute,Daresaid. Annoyed,shehesitated,thengaveonesharpnod.Makeit fast. DaregatheredMollycloser.Youneedtounderstand something.

Herheartstartedthundering,andherbreathfelttrappedin herlungs. ItisntjustChristhatIlove,ormydogs.Christ,Molly,I couldhavefacedoffwithtenmentokeepyousafe,becauseI loveyou,too. Herkneesfeltweakagain.Sheclutchedathim,hopeful, dumbfounded.Elated.You? Daresmiled.IloveyoulikeIdidntknowIcouldlove anyone.Hiseyesglistened,butonlyforasecond.Helooked down,tookafewbreaths,thenmether gazeagain.Ineverthoughtitwaspossible,butyoufitin here,MollyAlexander.Inmylife,myhomeandwithmy friends.Chrislovesyou,mygirlsloveyou. Hehesitated,frustrated,andglancedoveratthecop.Witha rollofhereyesshemovedoutofsight. DareheldMollysfaceintremblinghands.Nowthatyouve beenhere,nothingwouldeverbethesameifyouleft. Areyou?Doyoumean?Shecouldntpulltogethera completethought.Somuchhadhappened,butsheknew howshefelt,hadknownforalong time. Butshedidntwanttojumpthegunanddoorsayanything tomakeDareslifemoredifficult. Staywithme,Molly. Well,thatwasprettyclear.Dare.God,shelovedhim.Are yousure?No,wait.Sheputafingeroverhismouth.Youre hurt,andyouvebeenthroughhell tonight.Youmightnotknow Iknow.

Sheshookherhead.Imean,youvefeltresponsibleforme forsolong Hell,honey,Ifeelresponsibleforalmosteveryone.Thats notgoingtochange. Youdo? Thatgorgeousmouthofhiscurledintoasexysmile. Everyonesmaller,older,weaker,younger Mollycouldnthelpbutlaugh.Andthatcoversabout everyone. Heshrugged.Trustme,whatIfeelforyouisdifferent.Id loveforustoberesponsibleforeachother,butitsmore thanthat.Hell,Idontknowwhattocall it,becauseIneverfeltitbeforenow.Butitsasrealasitgets, anditwontchange. Iveneverfeltthisbefore,either.Mollyforcedherselfto thinkitthrough,insteadofleapingwithopenarms.Dare, youneedtobesure. Hisbrowsknittogether.Areyousure? Shedidntcareaboutprotectingherheartorherpride.I loveyou. Heletoutabreath.Itsgoingtobearoughroadahead.He trailedhisthumboverhercheek,alongthelineofherjaw, downherthroat.Ihavent protectedyouwellatall.Thatdamnedbombisgoingto causeastir.Thelaw,bothlocalandfederal,isgoingtobeall overthis.Therellbeamassive investigation,mostofitcenteredonyourstepmotherand father.Illpullsomestringsandkeepyououtofmostofit Dare,no.Sheletoutabreath,andsmiled.Noneofthat matterstome.

No? Sheshookherhead.Dadmightcare,butheandIhaveso littleincommon. Filledwithsincerity,Dareglancedatwheretheofficerhad been,andthenloweredhisvoice.Icanspinthistoprotect him,too,ifthatswhatyouwant. No.Sheputherarmsaroundhim.Hehadenough responsibilityinhislife;herfathercouldfendforhimself. AllIreallywantisyou. Onagroan,heliftedheroffherfeet.God,baby,youvegot me. Theofficerclearedherthroat,andDarereleasedMollyto standonherownagain.Areyouokaytodothis? Mollycouldnthelpbutsmileagain.Aftereverythingelse shedbeenthrough,facingthepolicewouldbeapieceof cake. Justtoteasehim,shesaid,Imfine. Darerolledhiseyes,buthesmiled,too.Comeon,then.Lets getthisoverwith. MOLLYWOREHERcutestpajamas,theonesDarehadnt wantedhertobring,whenshewentintothekitchenearlyin themorningandfoundChris sprawledinachair,moredisheveledthannot.Darewasat thestovecookingbreakfast,andthedogsjumpeduptogreet her. Shepettedeachone,wenttoChristokisshimontheearand thenwenttoDaretowrapherarmsaroundhimfrom behind.

Helookedoverhisshoulderather.Morning,beautiful. Shegavehimasqueeze,thenwenttopoursomecoffee. Chris,youlookmoreoutofsortsthanusual.Everything okay? Daregaveheralook.Allthedecisionmakingonhisnew placeiskeepinghimawakeatnight. Alaniisaslavedriver,Chriscomplained.Ijustwantthe housedone,butshekeepssayingithastobedoneright. Now,Chris,Mollyteased.Yourehurtingmyfeelings.AmI reallysodifficulttobearound? Hesatupright.Ididntmeanthat. Areyousure?Foracoupleofmonthsnow,Chrishadbeen livinginthemainhousewiththemwhilehishomewas rebuilt.IknowImaninterloper BothmenprotestedsostronglythatSargiebarked.Molly startedoutbysnickering,butendeduplaughingoutloud. Chrisgaveheradirtylook.Notfunny.AndthentoDare, Shehasatwistedsenseofhumor.Heswilledsomecoffee andadded,Ilikeit. Dare,dontforgetthatweremeetingNatalieandJettfor dinnertomorrow.Theywereneededbackintownyet again.Herstepmotherhadbeen arrested,alongwithMarkSaganandEdWarwick,but amazinglyenough,herfatherhadntbeenimplicatedinany wrongdoing.Hewasstillbitterabout howithadallturnedout,theintrusionintohislifeandhis businessaffairs.Buthecooperatedwiththeinvestigation andoutofnecessityspokewithMolly moreoftennowthanbeforeherabduction.Thescandal hadntaffectedhimtoomuch,businesswise.Theredbeen

gossip,ofcourse,andlonglooks fromsomeofhissocalledfriends.Butallinall,hedbeen businessasusual,throwinghimselfintohisworkandhis sociallife. Forherpart,Mollystayedtoobusywithherwriting,the excitingprogressonthemovieandlovingDaretoworry overlyaboutherfathersaffections. Letspickoutaringwhilewerethere,okay?Dareput pancakesinfrontofher.Ilikethatlittlejewelryshopnear whereJettworks. SomuchjoyfilledMolly,shethoughtshemightburst.All right.ShereachedforChrisshand.Wanttocomealong? Sorry.Idloveto,butthecontractorwillbehereinanhour. Heliftedherhandforakisstoherknuckles.Pickout somethingoutrageous,okay?He winkedather. ChrisdidenjoyspendingDaresmoney. Shecanpickoutwhatevershewants.Dareputpancakesin frontofChris,too. OnceChrishadhishousebackandthelegalitieswereall settled,sheandDarewouldmarry.Shewashappytowait anddoitright.Aslongasshegotto doitallwithDare,nothingelsemattered. Lifehadchallengedher.Lifehadbroughtoutherstrengths. Lifehadgivenherloveandknowinghowithadallturned out,shewouldntchangeathing.