Jennifer Probst will be with us next week, but her publisher has provided us with an excerpt post from The Marriage Mistake to tide us over until Jennifer stops by. Enjoy!
Carina Conte has had a crush on her brother Michaelβs best friend, Max Gray, since she was a teenager. Now sheβs earned her MBA and come to work at Michaelβs new venture, Americaβs fastest-growing bakery empire. But some things never change: her family still treats her like a child. With three drop-dead gorgeous siblings, sheβs still the ugly duckling of the bunch. And Max, the companyβs new CEO, still barely notices her.
Max knows Carina Conte is strictly off limits. But hot-blooded lust wins out at a conference when the two share a scorching one-night standβand are busted by her mother! Now, forced by old-world Italian tradition into a marriage heβs not ready for, Max is miserableβand Carina is furious. Her new husband is about to realize that hell hath no fury like a woman transformedβ¦
Prologue
Carina Conte stared into the flickering flame of her homemade campfire and reminded herself she wasnβt crazy.
She was just a woman in love.
Her hand trembled around the piece of paper. The vio- let fabric book of love spells nestled in the grass beside her feet. She glanced around and hoped to God her family didnβt wake. Sheβd promised her sister-in-law sheβd never attempt to cast a spell, but Maggie didnβt need to know. Tucked toward the back of the property, the scents of crackling burnt wood and sweet crocus filled her nostrils, and she prayed the firelight wouldnβt reveal her location.
Carina glanced down at the page. Okay, time to sum- mon Earth Mother. She hoped Father Richard wouldnβtΒ get upset. She quickly recited the words to summon the powers of female earth to conjure her a man with all the qualities written on her list.
Carina Conte stared into the flickering flame of her homemade campfire and reminded herself she wasnβt crazy.
She was just a woman in love.
Her hand trembled around the piece of paper. The vio- let fabric book of love spells nestled in the grass beside her feet. She glanced around and hoped to God her family didnβt wake. Sheβd promised her sister-in-law sheβd never attempt to cast a spell, but Maggie didnβt need to know. Tucked toward the back of the property, the scents of crackling burnt wood and sweet crocus filled her nostrils, and she prayed the firelight wouldnβt reveal her location.
Carina glanced down at the page. Okay, time to sum- mon Earth Mother. She hoped Father Richard wouldnβtΒ get upset. She quickly recited the words to summon the powers of female earth to conjure her a man with all the qualities written on her list.
Then she threw the paper in the fire.
Lightness flowed through her and she let out a re- lieved sigh. Done. Now, all she had to do was be patient. She wondered how long Earth Mother usually waited to bestow her gift. Of course, sheβd made the job quite easy for the entity. Instead of a long list of qualities, her list held the power of one single name. The name of the man sheβd been in love with her whole life, the man who looked upon her as a little sister, the man who was worldly and sexy and dated some of the most beautiful women in the world, the man who left her tongue-tied during the day and wracked her body with hot-blooded need during the night.
Maximus Gray.
Carina waited until the entire paper turned to ash, then dumped the bucket of water onto the fire. She cleaned up with quick, efficient movements, scooped up the fabric book, and made her way back into the house.
The soft grass tickled her bare feet, and her white nightgown billowed around her like a ghost. A sense of ex- citement shivered down her spine as she snuck back to her room. She slid the book back into the drawer and crawled into bed.
Finally, it was done.
Lightness flowed through her and she let out a re- lieved sigh. Done. Now, all she had to do was be patient. She wondered how long Earth Mother usually waited to bestow her gift. Of course, sheβd made the job quite easy for the entity. Instead of a long list of qualities, her list held the power of one single name. The name of the man sheβd been in love with her whole life, the man who looked upon her as a little sister, the man who was worldly and sexy and dated some of the most beautiful women in the world, the man who left her tongue-tied during the day and wracked her body with hot-blooded need during the night.
Maximus Gray.
Carina waited until the entire paper turned to ash, then dumped the bucket of water onto the fire. She cleaned up with quick, efficient movements, scooped up the fabric book, and made her way back into the house.
The soft grass tickled her bare feet, and her white nightgown billowed around her like a ghost. A sense of ex- citement shivered down her spine as she snuck back to her room. She slid the book back into the drawer and crawled into bed.
Finally, it was done.
Chapter One
βIβve hired a new associate. Sheβll be under your direc- tion, and you will be responsible for her training.β
Max cut his gaze to the man seated across the table. His nerve endings prickled at the announcement, but he remained silent. He stretched out his legs under the con- ference table, crossed his arms in front of his chest, and quirked a brow. Heβd worked endless hours and sweat blood to get the family empire of La Dolce Maggie, the U.S. branch of Italian-based La Dolce Famiglia, off the ground, and damned if heβd step aside nicely. βLooking to replace me, boss?β
More like a brother than a boss, Michael Conte shot him a grin. βAnd deal with your mama coming after me to kick my ass? No such luck. You need help with the expansion.β
βIβve hired a new associate. Sheβll be under your direc- tion, and you will be responsible for her training.β
Max cut his gaze to the man seated across the table. His nerve endings prickled at the announcement, but he remained silent. He stretched out his legs under the con- ference table, crossed his arms in front of his chest, and quirked a brow. Heβd worked endless hours and sweat blood to get the family empire of La Dolce Maggie, the U.S. branch of Italian-based La Dolce Famiglia, off the ground, and damned if heβd step aside nicely. βLooking to replace me, boss?β
More like a brother than a boss, Michael Conte shot him a grin. βAnd deal with your mama coming after me to kick my ass? No such luck. You need help with the expansion.β
Max smirked.βSeems your mama is tougher than mine. Didnβt she instigate a shotgun wedding with your wife? Good thing you loved her, or you wouldβve been screwed.β
βFunny, Gray. The wedding wasnβt the problem. It was your doubts about my wife that truly screwed us up.β
Max winced. βSorry. Just trying to protect a friend from a money-hungry woman. Anyway, I love Maggie now. Sheβs strong enough to take your crap.β
βYeah, now itβs like a mutual admiration club between you two.β
βBetter than war. So, whoβs the hotshot coming in?β βCarina.β
Max snapped his mouth shut. βExcuse me? Carina,
your baby sister? Youβve got to be kidding meβisnβt she still in school?β
Michael poured himself some water from the cooler and took a sip. βShe graduated last May with her MBA from SDA Bocconi, and sheβs been training at Dolce di Notte.β
βOur competitor?β
Michael smiled. βHardly. They are not looking to con- quer the world like us, my friend. But I can trust them to teach her basic skills in the bakery business. I wanted her to train with Julietta but she refuses to lag in her older sis- terβs shadow. Sheβs been begging me to come to America and her internship is up. It is time she now join the family company. Capisce?β
Max winced. βSorry. Just trying to protect a friend from a money-hungry woman. Anyway, I love Maggie now. Sheβs strong enough to take your crap.β
βYeah, now itβs like a mutual admiration club between you two.β
βBetter than war. So, whoβs the hotshot coming in?β βCarina.β
Max snapped his mouth shut. βExcuse me? Carina,
your baby sister? Youβve got to be kidding meβisnβt she still in school?β
Michael poured himself some water from the cooler and took a sip. βShe graduated last May with her MBA from SDA Bocconi, and sheβs been training at Dolce di Notte.β
βOur competitor?β
Michael smiled. βHardly. They are not looking to con- quer the world like us, my friend. But I can trust them to teach her basic skills in the bakery business. I wanted her to train with Julietta but she refuses to lag in her older sis- terβs shadow. Sheβs been begging me to come to America and her internship is up. It is time she now join the family company. Capisce?β
Ah, hell. Yeah, he understood. Max was being reas- signed to babysitting duty for the youngest sister of the clan. Sure, he loved her like a sibling, but her tendency to burst into tears over emotional scenes did not go well with business. Max shuddered. What if he hurt her feelings and she crumbled? This was a bad idea all around.
βUm, Michael, maybe you should put her in account- ing. You always said sheβs capable with figures, and I donβt think management is a good fit. Iβve got a crazy schedule and Iβm in delicate negotiations. Please give her to some- one else.β
His friend shook his head. βEventually, I will move her to CFO. But for now I want her with you. She needs to learn proper management and how La Dolce Maggie works. Youβre the only one I trust to make sure she doesnβt get in trouble. Youβre family.β
The simple words slammed the last nail into his vam- pire home. Family. Michael had always taken care of him, and heβd proven himself worthy. Heβd also dreamed of a place carved out just for him. The peak of the food chain, so to speak. No one had ever questioned his job as CEO, but lately he wondered if missing the prized Conte blood in his veins hurt his position. Contracts were temporary, and his was renegotiated every three years. He craved a more permanent place in the empire he helped build, and the expansion of three more bakeries could be his crown jewels. If he did his job well, heβd secure himselfΒ at the top, right beside Michaelβas a permanent partner instead of an appointed CEO. Worrying about a young girl fresh from business school would only distract him. Unless . . .
βUm, Michael, maybe you should put her in account- ing. You always said sheβs capable with figures, and I donβt think management is a good fit. Iβve got a crazy schedule and Iβm in delicate negotiations. Please give her to some- one else.β
His friend shook his head. βEventually, I will move her to CFO. But for now I want her with you. She needs to learn proper management and how La Dolce Maggie works. Youβre the only one I trust to make sure she doesnβt get in trouble. Youβre family.β
The simple words slammed the last nail into his vam- pire home. Family. Michael had always taken care of him, and heβd proven himself worthy. Heβd also dreamed of a place carved out just for him. The peak of the food chain, so to speak. No one had ever questioned his job as CEO, but lately he wondered if missing the prized Conte blood in his veins hurt his position. Contracts were temporary, and his was renegotiated every three years. He craved a more permanent place in the empire he helped build, and the expansion of three more bakeries could be his crown jewels. If he did his job well, heβd secure himselfΒ at the top, right beside Michaelβas a permanent partner instead of an appointed CEO. Worrying about a young girl fresh from business school would only distract him. Unless . . .
He tapped his finger against his lower lip. Perhaps Michael needed to be reminded of how critical his efforts were for the company. By throwing Carina certain chal- lenges, heβd be sure to highlight her deficiencies and young age, all the while keeping her under his so-called pro- tection. After the expansion, Max intended to approach Michael about partnership. Carina may be able to help his cause, especially if he mentored her and she depended on his feedback.
Yes, perhaps this was for the best.
βOkay, Michael, if this is what you want.β
βGood. Sheβll be arriving in about an hour. Why donβt
you come to dinner tonight? Weβre having a small wel- come celebration for her arrival.β
βIs Maggie cooking?β
Michael grinned. βHell, no.β
βThen Iβm in.β
βSmart man.β Michael crushed the paper cup, threw it
in the trash, and closed the door behind him.
Max glanced at his watch. He had a ton of work to ac-
complish before she arrived. …
Yes, perhaps this was for the best.
βOkay, Michael, if this is what you want.β
βGood. Sheβll be arriving in about an hour. Why donβt
you come to dinner tonight? Weβre having a small wel- come celebration for her arrival.β
βIs Maggie cooking?β
Michael grinned. βHell, no.β
βThen Iβm in.β
βSmart man.β Michael crushed the paper cup, threw it
in the trash, and closed the door behind him.
Max glanced at his watch. He had a ton of work to ac-
complish before she arrived. …
Carina stared at the sleek wooden door with the shiny gold sign. She swallowed past the tightness in her throat and swiped her damp palms down her black skirt. This was ridiculous. She was grown up and well past the days of mooning over Max Gray.
After all, three years was a long time.
She smoothed back a strand of hair from her sleek top- knot, straightened her shoulders, and knocked on the door.
βCome in.β
The sound of his husky voice drifted past her memory and grabbed her in a choke hold. It was rich and creamy smooth, hinting at naughty sex and mischief that only a nun could ignore. Maybe.
She opened the door and strode in with fake confi- dence. Carina knew it didnβt matter. The business world only observed what lay upon the surface. The knowledge soothed herβshe had gotten very good at hiding her emo- tions during her training. It was simply a matter of survival.
βHello, Max.β
The man behind the sprawling teak desk gazed at her with a strange mixture of warmth and surprise, almost as if he wasnβt expecting the woman who stood before him. Those piercing blue eyes sharpened and roved over her figure before his face smoothed out to a polite welcome. Her heart teetered, dropped, and held steady. For one mo- ment, she allowed herself to drink in his appearance.
His body was lean and trim, and his impressive height always added an intimidating demeanor that was an edge with most of his deals. His face reflected the image of a demon and angel caught in a love affair. Sharp cheekbones, an elegant nose, and a graceful curved brow held hints of aristocracy. The sexy goatee hugged his jaw, accented the plump curve to his lips, and bespoke pure sex. Thick, coal black hair fell in untamed waves across his forehead and set off the rocketing blue of his eyes. As he moved toward her, he walked with an easy grace a tall man usually didnβt pull off, and the enticing scent of his cologne teased her senses. The odd combination of wood, spice, and lemon made her want to bury her face in the curve of his neck and breathe in.
After all, three years was a long time.
She smoothed back a strand of hair from her sleek top- knot, straightened her shoulders, and knocked on the door.
βCome in.β
The sound of his husky voice drifted past her memory and grabbed her in a choke hold. It was rich and creamy smooth, hinting at naughty sex and mischief that only a nun could ignore. Maybe.
She opened the door and strode in with fake confi- dence. Carina knew it didnβt matter. The business world only observed what lay upon the surface. The knowledge soothed herβshe had gotten very good at hiding her emo- tions during her training. It was simply a matter of survival.
βHello, Max.β
The man behind the sprawling teak desk gazed at her with a strange mixture of warmth and surprise, almost as if he wasnβt expecting the woman who stood before him. Those piercing blue eyes sharpened and roved over her figure before his face smoothed out to a polite welcome. Her heart teetered, dropped, and held steady. For one mo- ment, she allowed herself to drink in his appearance.
His body was lean and trim, and his impressive height always added an intimidating demeanor that was an edge with most of his deals. His face reflected the image of a demon and angel caught in a love affair. Sharp cheekbones, an elegant nose, and a graceful curved brow held hints of aristocracy. The sexy goatee hugged his jaw, accented the plump curve to his lips, and bespoke pure sex. Thick, coal black hair fell in untamed waves across his forehead and set off the rocketing blue of his eyes. As he moved toward her, he walked with an easy grace a tall man usually didnβt pull off, and the enticing scent of his cologne teased her senses. The odd combination of wood, spice, and lemon made her want to bury her face in the curve of his neck and breathe in.
Of course, she didnβt. Not even when he held her briefly in a welcome hug. Her fingers rested over broad shoulders barely contained in his custom-made navy suit. Sheβd long ago faced her own personal kryptonite and learned core les- sons. Acknowledge her weakness. Accept it. Move on. The simple rules in business applied to all areas of her life now.
She smiled up at him. βItβs been a long time.β
βToo long, cara.β Unease flashed in his eyes, then dis- appeared. βI heard you graduated at the top of your class. Well done.β
She gave a brief nod. βThank you. And you? Michael says youβre working hard on expanding La Dolce Maggie.β His jaw clenched. βYes. It seems you will be assisting me in this aspect. Have you spoken with your brother yet?β Carina frowned. βNo, I came straight to headquartersΒ so I could put in a few hours first. I figured heβd give me the tour. What division is he starting me with? Accounts payable, budgeting, or operations?β
She smiled up at him. βItβs been a long time.β
βToo long, cara.β Unease flashed in his eyes, then dis- appeared. βI heard you graduated at the top of your class. Well done.β
She gave a brief nod. βThank you. And you? Michael says youβre working hard on expanding La Dolce Maggie.β His jaw clenched. βYes. It seems you will be assisting me in this aspect. Have you spoken with your brother yet?β Carina frowned. βNo, I came straight to headquartersΒ so I could put in a few hours first. I figured heβd give me the tour. What division is he starting me with? Accounts payable, budgeting, or operations?β
He studied her face for a while, his gaze an actual ca- ress as he probed every feature. She held tight and sub- mitted to the inspection. She needed to get used to his presence since sheβd be bumping into him at work. Thank God sheβd be buried in accounting. Her core concentration and skills with figures were solid, and Max would rarely need to peek in on her progress.
A smile curved those sensual lips and briefly distracted her. βMe.β
βExcuse me?β
βYour division. Youβll be working with me as my as- sistant. Iβll be training you.β
Horror flooded her. She took a step back as if he was the demon who requested she sign away her soul. βI donβt think thatβs a good idea.β A crazy laugh escaped her lips. βI mean, I donβt want to get in the way. Iβll speak with Michael and convince him to start me somewhere else.β
βDo you not want to work with me?β He lifted his hands. βThereβs nothing to worry about, Carina. I will take good care of you.β
An image of him slipping his fingers in her damp heat and stroking her to orgasm blazed before her vision. God knew heβd take care of a woman. In all ways. Color flooded her cheeks so she turned quickly as if studying his office.
A smile curved those sensual lips and briefly distracted her. βMe.β
βExcuse me?β
βYour division. Youβll be working with me as my as- sistant. Iβll be training you.β
Horror flooded her. She took a step back as if he was the demon who requested she sign away her soul. βI donβt think thatβs a good idea.β A crazy laugh escaped her lips. βI mean, I donβt want to get in the way. Iβll speak with Michael and convince him to start me somewhere else.β
βDo you not want to work with me?β He lifted his hands. βThereβs nothing to worry about, Carina. I will take good care of you.β
An image of him slipping his fingers in her damp heat and stroking her to orgasm blazed before her vision. God knew heβd take care of a woman. In all ways. Color flooded her cheeks so she turned quickly as if studying his office.
Ridiculous. She was losing her control within five minutes of their first meeting.
Her heels clicked on the wooden tile as she paced and feigned interest in the large photo of the waterfront open- ing. This was her ultimate test, and she refused to fail. Max was a silly crush from her youth, and sheβd no longer live her life in an emotional prison. Sheβd come here for two main reasons: Prove her worth, and exorcise the ghost of Maximus Gray.
Failure so far on both accounts.
She cleared her throat and faced him once again. βI ap- preciate your willingness to train me,β she said pleasantly, βbut Iβd feel more comfortable elsewhere.β
His lip quirked. βSuit yourself. But I think your brother has a clear idea of what he wants. Why donβt I give you a brief tour while I ring him? I donβt think he expected you until later.β
βFine.β She lifted her chin in challenge. βPerhaps itβs time to remind my brother he is no longer in charge of me.β
Carina made sure to lead the way out. …
What the hell was going on?
Max trotted obediently after the cool, poised woman
in front of him and tried to gather his wits. This was notΒ the young girl heβd last seen in Italy, who was emotional, dramaticβself-conscious.
Failure so far on both accounts.
She cleared her throat and faced him once again. βI ap- preciate your willingness to train me,β she said pleasantly, βbut Iβd feel more comfortable elsewhere.β
His lip quirked. βSuit yourself. But I think your brother has a clear idea of what he wants. Why donβt I give you a brief tour while I ring him? I donβt think he expected you until later.β
βFine.β She lifted her chin in challenge. βPerhaps itβs time to remind my brother he is no longer in charge of me.β
Carina made sure to lead the way out. …
What the hell was going on?
Max trotted obediently after the cool, poised woman
in front of him and tried to gather his wits. This was notΒ the young girl heβd last seen in Italy, who was emotional, dramaticβself-conscious.
No, this Carina Conte had grown up. He used to get a kick out of her admiring gaze and shy habit of duck- ing her head when something embarrassed her. Carina was used to listening to the demands of others. She was a people pleaser, extra sensitive, and a lovely girl heβd al- ways felt quite overprotective about. But the woman heβd met this time seemed completely in control and capable. The idea of her standing up to her older brother shocked him. He wondered at the quick stab of disappointment in the changes, then shrugged it off. Maybe sheβd end up being more of an asset to the company than heβd originally thought.
Of course, her body had bloomed, too. Or had he just never noticed? Max ripped his gaze away from the full curve of her rear as she swung her hips in the ancient rhythm created to drive men mad. Shorter than her older sisters, she teetered on four-inch heels that showed off the muscled length of her legs. As he introduced her to various employees and they made their way around the ground floor, he noticed that sheβd grown in other ways, also. Especially in her cleavage.
Heat rushed through him and squeezed. The delicate white blouse opened at the neck and revealed a touch of lace. Her full breasts strained against the material as if dying to escape, turning her respectable business suit intoΒ a vehicle for a stripper. Horrified at the sudden veer of his thoughts, he quickly imagined nuns in underwear and got himself back in control.
Of course, her body had bloomed, too. Or had he just never noticed? Max ripped his gaze away from the full curve of her rear as she swung her hips in the ancient rhythm created to drive men mad. Shorter than her older sisters, she teetered on four-inch heels that showed off the muscled length of her legs. As he introduced her to various employees and they made their way around the ground floor, he noticed that sheβd grown in other ways, also. Especially in her cleavage.
Heat rushed through him and squeezed. The delicate white blouse opened at the neck and revealed a touch of lace. Her full breasts strained against the material as if dying to escape, turning her respectable business suit intoΒ a vehicle for a stripper. Horrified at the sudden veer of his thoughts, he quickly imagined nuns in underwear and got himself back in control.
Carina was off-limits. He was her guardian and second protector. Max shook his head and studied her face in an almost academic light. Sheβd always been a pretty girl, but usually slapped on so much makeup he couldnβt really see her features. Today, scarlet red lips were her only acces- sory. The olive tint to her skin gleamed under the light and tempted a man to touch. Those untamed curls had disap- peared into a severe topknot that set off heavy brows and high cheekbones. Her nose was all Italian, and dominated her face, but the power of those stormy dark eyes held a person captive and refused to let go. Sheβd never be rail thin, and he wondered why most women wanted to be. The lush curves that strained against her straight-edged suit was all temptress.
Did she have a lover?
Crap, where did that thought come from? He rubbed his eyes and half groaned with relief at the sight of Michael down the hallway.
Her brother threw his arms out in the ancient family tradition, but Carina didnβt rush into his embrace. Instead, she smiled, walked slowly down the hall, and hugged him back. The strength of their bond shimmered around them, and once again Max experienced a pang of loneliness. He always craved a sibling to share his life with. At least,Β Michael and his sisters were his adopted family. But after Maxβs father took off, only one goal remained and kept him on the path to revenge: success.
Did she have a lover?
Crap, where did that thought come from? He rubbed his eyes and half groaned with relief at the sight of Michael down the hallway.
Her brother threw his arms out in the ancient family tradition, but Carina didnβt rush into his embrace. Instead, she smiled, walked slowly down the hall, and hugged him back. The strength of their bond shimmered around them, and once again Max experienced a pang of loneliness. He always craved a sibling to share his life with. At least,Β Michael and his sisters were his adopted family. But after Maxβs father took off, only one goal remained and kept him on the path to revenge: success.
So donβt screw it up.
He nodded to the inner voice and refocused. Michael flung his arm around Carinaβs shoulder and walked over. βIβm so happy you are finally here, mia bella. I told my driver to take you directly to the house, though. Maggie has been waiting for you.β
Carina tilted her head up and grinned. βAnd how is my sister-in-law doing?β
βCranky.β
βDo you blame her?β She laughed. βI told your driver there was a change in plans. I figured Iβd grab a tour, set up my desk, and head to your house. Max gave me a brief overview of the layout.β
Michael clapped him on the back and turned to Carina. βYouβre in good hands. Why donβt you take the office next to his? Itβs been empty for a while, and I can get the boxes cleared out today. Weβll hold a strategy meeting tomorrow on some new developments.β
An uncomfortable silence settled around them. Michael looked confused at the sight of his sisterβs stony expression. βYes, it seems we need to lay out some ground rules first. Can we meet in your office?β
Max nodded. βIβll leave you two and catch up tonight.β βNo, Max. Iβd like you to join us,β Carina said.
He nodded to the inner voice and refocused. Michael flung his arm around Carinaβs shoulder and walked over. βIβm so happy you are finally here, mia bella. I told my driver to take you directly to the house, though. Maggie has been waiting for you.β
Carina tilted her head up and grinned. βAnd how is my sister-in-law doing?β
βCranky.β
βDo you blame her?β She laughed. βI told your driver there was a change in plans. I figured Iβd grab a tour, set up my desk, and head to your house. Max gave me a brief overview of the layout.β
Michael clapped him on the back and turned to Carina. βYouβre in good hands. Why donβt you take the office next to his? Itβs been empty for a while, and I can get the boxes cleared out today. Weβll hold a strategy meeting tomorrow on some new developments.β
An uncomfortable silence settled around them. Michael looked confused at the sight of his sisterβs stony expression. βYes, it seems we need to lay out some ground rules first. Can we meet in your office?β
Max nodded. βIβll leave you two and catch up tonight.β βNo, Max. Iβd like you to join us,β Carina said.
Her direct gaze caused an odd sensation to prickle his skin, but he ignored it. He assented and they convened in Michaelβs office. The chairs were deep and comfortable, made for long hours of conferences. He fought a chuckle when her petite frame got swallowed by the plush vel- vet, and she inched her rear to the edge of the seat. She tossed him a disgusted glance that told him his amusement had been caught, and primly closed her legs, heels placed firmly on the floor. Those well-defined calves were made for gripping a manβs hips as he thrust inside her.
Jesus, get a grip. He was an old man at thirty-four. Sure, the hot librarian look was a shock, but Carina was still like family and years younger. Sheltered. Innocent. Sheβd prob- ably die of embarrassment if she suspected her appearance rocked his world . . . and parts of his anatomy.
He quickly dispersed the image.
βMichael, I have some concerns about my place here. Maybe you can let me know what you see as my role, and we can make the necessary adjustments.β
Her brother drew back. Seems like he wasnβt the only one surprised by the rational Carina Conte. βYou should not worry about this, cara. Eventually, you will take the po- sition of CFO, but for now you will assist Max in all aspects of running La Dolce Maggie. I need you to learn all levels of the operation first. Of course, you will live with Maggie and me. Iβve set up a private suite, and you may decorate it any way youβd like. When you have concerns, come to meΒ and we will work them out.β Michael practically beamed with pride at his generous offer.
Jesus, get a grip. He was an old man at thirty-four. Sure, the hot librarian look was a shock, but Carina was still like family and years younger. Sheltered. Innocent. Sheβd prob- ably die of embarrassment if she suspected her appearance rocked his world . . . and parts of his anatomy.
He quickly dispersed the image.
βMichael, I have some concerns about my place here. Maybe you can let me know what you see as my role, and we can make the necessary adjustments.β
Her brother drew back. Seems like he wasnβt the only one surprised by the rational Carina Conte. βYou should not worry about this, cara. Eventually, you will take the po- sition of CFO, but for now you will assist Max in all aspects of running La Dolce Maggie. I need you to learn all levels of the operation first. Of course, you will live with Maggie and me. Iβve set up a private suite, and you may decorate it any way youβd like. When you have concerns, come to meΒ and we will work them out.β Michael practically beamed with pride at his generous offer.
Somehow, Max suspected trouble brewing. Big trou- ble. He waited for the feminine temper explosion.
Carina nodded. βI see. Well, that is quite generous of you and I appreciate the offer. Unfortunately, I did not come to New York to live in my brotherβs house and shadow his CEO. I have my own plans. Iβm moving into Alexaβs old loft apartment this weekend. As for La Dolce Maggie, I think Iβll serve the company better in accounting and operations since that will be my permanent position. Max does not need someone distracting him from his role here.β
Max quickly snapped his mouth closed and prayed no one noticed. Where were the fireworks and family drama? Carina was a passionate, emotional young woman who never held her tongue and followed every feeling she ever had. That was why she got into so much trouble. He re- membered the time she jumped out of the car to follow a stray dog into the woods and got lost. Dio, what a fiasco. They thought sheβd been kidnapped, and had found her hours later with a filthy ball of fur in her arms in a make- shift shelter sheβd constructed out of twigs and leaves. Not even a tear in sight, sheβd announced her confidence in being found and walked out with that dog while her brother screamed and Max nearly passed out with relief.
Michael stared at her. βAbsolutely not. You are my sister and will stay with us. New York is a scary place. As for the company, I do not need another person in the account- ing department at the moment. You will learn more from Max.β
Carina nodded. βI see. Well, that is quite generous of you and I appreciate the offer. Unfortunately, I did not come to New York to live in my brotherβs house and shadow his CEO. I have my own plans. Iβm moving into Alexaβs old loft apartment this weekend. As for La Dolce Maggie, I think Iβll serve the company better in accounting and operations since that will be my permanent position. Max does not need someone distracting him from his role here.β
Max quickly snapped his mouth closed and prayed no one noticed. Where were the fireworks and family drama? Carina was a passionate, emotional young woman who never held her tongue and followed every feeling she ever had. That was why she got into so much trouble. He re- membered the time she jumped out of the car to follow a stray dog into the woods and got lost. Dio, what a fiasco. They thought sheβd been kidnapped, and had found her hours later with a filthy ball of fur in her arms in a make- shift shelter sheβd constructed out of twigs and leaves. Not even a tear in sight, sheβd announced her confidence in being found and walked out with that dog while her brother screamed and Max nearly passed out with relief.
Michael stared at her. βAbsolutely not. You are my sister and will stay with us. New York is a scary place. As for the company, I do not need another person in the account- ing department at the moment. You will learn more from Max.β
βNo.β She smiled pleasantly, but her word shot through the room like a balloon pop.
βWhat?β
βYou are not listening to me, Michael. If we canβt com- municate in an adult manner, itβs not going to work out. Iβve already received two job offers from businesses in Manhattan, and I havenβt given them my final decision. I want to prove my worth here, but if you continue to treat me like a little sister, I wonβt be able to do my job properly. This would not be fair to anyone. Now, if you have a valid reason other than wanting Max to keep an eye on me and out of trouble, Iβd like to hear it. If not, I will happily move onward with no hurt feelings. Capisce?β
Max prepped for the Italian temper of his friend and boss. There was one thing Michael pursued with the vigor of medieval warfareβthe protection of his baby sister. His word meant law in the Conte household, passed from gen- erations of old-school traditions. The idea of Carina sud- denly challenging his decisions the moment she landed on his turf fascinated the hell out of him.
And then the world tilted on its axis.
Michael gave a brief nod. A hint of a smile touched his lips. βVery well, cara. I want you to stay in my homeΒ because Maggie will enjoy your company. We can show you around until you become more comfortable in your surroundings. As for the company, I know your skills excel with figures but I need you to get training in all aspects of the business, most especially management. Max is the only one I trust to properly hone your skills.β
βWhat?β
βYou are not listening to me, Michael. If we canβt com- municate in an adult manner, itβs not going to work out. Iβve already received two job offers from businesses in Manhattan, and I havenβt given them my final decision. I want to prove my worth here, but if you continue to treat me like a little sister, I wonβt be able to do my job properly. This would not be fair to anyone. Now, if you have a valid reason other than wanting Max to keep an eye on me and out of trouble, Iβd like to hear it. If not, I will happily move onward with no hurt feelings. Capisce?β
Max prepped for the Italian temper of his friend and boss. There was one thing Michael pursued with the vigor of medieval warfareβthe protection of his baby sister. His word meant law in the Conte household, passed from gen- erations of old-school traditions. The idea of Carina sud- denly challenging his decisions the moment she landed on his turf fascinated the hell out of him.
And then the world tilted on its axis.
Michael gave a brief nod. A hint of a smile touched his lips. βVery well, cara. I want you to stay in my homeΒ because Maggie will enjoy your company. We can show you around until you become more comfortable in your surroundings. As for the company, I know your skills excel with figures but I need you to get training in all aspects of the business, most especially management. Max is the only one I trust to properly hone your skills.β
Huh?
Max looked around for the cameras but found none. Carina looked pleased. βVery well, I agree that Max will be the best person. Iβve missed Maggie, too, so Iβll stay for the whole week. But then I really need to moveβliving with my older brother is not what I expected when I came out here. Itβs time I get my own place, and Alexaβs loft sounds perfect. Agreed?β
He didnβt look happy about losing the last half of the agreement, and Max waited for more negotiations.
βAgreed.β
The siblings grinned at each other. Who were these people?
βNow, let me visit the restroom, then would you take me home? Iβm exhausted and need to change.β
βOf course. We are having a small dinner party to cel- ebrate your arrival, but youβll have a chance to nap.β
βWonderful.β She gracefully rose from the chair and stopped in front of him. βThank you for the tour, Max. I will see you tonight.β
He nodded, still dumbstruck at the civil meeting heβdΒ just witnessed. She left the room and he stared at his boss. βWhat the hell was that about? Why arenβt you laying down the law like you always do? And what happened to her? She hasnβt cried or gotten upset once since sheβs ar- rived.β
Max looked around for the cameras but found none. Carina looked pleased. βVery well, I agree that Max will be the best person. Iβve missed Maggie, too, so Iβll stay for the whole week. But then I really need to moveβliving with my older brother is not what I expected when I came out here. Itβs time I get my own place, and Alexaβs loft sounds perfect. Agreed?β
He didnβt look happy about losing the last half of the agreement, and Max waited for more negotiations.
βAgreed.β
The siblings grinned at each other. Who were these people?
βNow, let me visit the restroom, then would you take me home? Iβm exhausted and need to change.β
βOf course. We are having a small dinner party to cel- ebrate your arrival, but youβll have a chance to nap.β
βWonderful.β She gracefully rose from the chair and stopped in front of him. βThank you for the tour, Max. I will see you tonight.β
He nodded, still dumbstruck at the civil meeting heβdΒ just witnessed. She left the room and he stared at his boss. βWhat the hell was that about? Why arenβt you laying down the law like you always do? And what happened to her? She hasnβt cried or gotten upset once since sheβs ar- rived.β
Michael waved his hand in the air and shrugged on his suit jacket. βMaggie convinced me she needs to be re- spected as an individual in order to make her own deci- sions. Do I hate it? Si. But sheβs grown up now, and needs to find her own way.β His eyes shadowed. βI am her brother, not her papa. But I appreciate you keeping an eye on her, mio amico. I trust you to keep her safe and help her learn what she needs in order to run this company.β
Unease slithered down his spine. βRun the company?β
Michael laughed. βOf course. She is a Conte and will one day take the full reins of La Dolce Maggie. That is what we are training her for.β
Max stared up at his friend, and coldness seeped into his chest. Would he ever truly feel like family and good enough to own a portion of the business? Was he being self- ish or ungrateful? Theyβd built La Dolce Maggie together, but in his gut, Max knew he was replaceable. Carina may be appointed CFO, but would also own a portion of the company. He never demanded permanence from Michael, afraid their friendship would cloud a decision that should be strictly business. Why did he always feel the need to fight harder to truly belong? Sure, his asshole father tookΒ off, but the constant struggle of worthiness was getting weary.
Unease slithered down his spine. βRun the company?β
Michael laughed. βOf course. She is a Conte and will one day take the full reins of La Dolce Maggie. That is what we are training her for.β
Max stared up at his friend, and coldness seeped into his chest. Would he ever truly feel like family and good enough to own a portion of the business? Was he being self- ish or ungrateful? Theyβd built La Dolce Maggie together, but in his gut, Max knew he was replaceable. Carina may be appointed CFO, but would also own a portion of the company. He never demanded permanence from Michael, afraid their friendship would cloud a decision that should be strictly business. Why did he always feel the need to fight harder to truly belong? Sure, his asshole father tookΒ off, but the constant struggle of worthiness was getting weary.
βI shall see you at seven tonight. Thanks, Max.β
The door shut behind him.
Max was left in the room with silence. With memories.
And with a sick feeling in his gut that never seemed to go away.Β
The door shut behind him.
Max was left in the room with silence. With memories.
And with a sick feeling in his gut that never seemed to go away.Β
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Shannon
Owner at Cocktails and Books
I am a lover of alpha males with dirty mouths, strong heroines putting alpha males in their place, and the Chicago Blackhawks. I'm a proud hockey mom who can often be found at the hockey rink cheering on my favorite forward, with my kindle close by.
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