CHAPTER ONE

Isle of Mull, Inner Hebrides, Scotland

“Jackson, go away.” Bishop barely glanced at the man entering his study. “I came home for a reason.”

One that didn’t include entertaining his best friend’s lapdog attorney.

“I know.” Jackson’s tone conveyed that the other man’s reasons didn’t impact his duties one way or the other. Even if that meant catching the Red Eye three thousand miles to the middle of nowhere, he would do his job. “While I’m sorry for interrupting your working vacation, there’s an emergency that needs your immediate attention.”

“Right.” Bishop looked up from the document he was reading. “What prompted Abby to send you to my doorstep uninvited? I don't want to witness the happy event if she’s suddenly decided to marry some boy toy. I have too much on my plate to deal with her whims.”

While not a full-fledged cougar, his old friend wasn’t above dating much younger men if the mood struck. She also wasn’t above crying wolf over a hangnail. He’d learned long ago that Abby’s emergencies weren’t necessarily his. As often as he indulged his gal pal, Bishop wasn’t up for her shenanigans right now.

Not when he was taking his first real break in several years. Or what passed for a break with him. He still worked sixteen-hour workdays, the same as always. The major difference, those meetings were virtual instead of face-to-face. While he missed the constant globe hopping, there was something to be said for enjoying the natural beauty of Mull for a few days. Though he’d never admit it, he enjoyed visiting his dysfunctional family on the mainland as well. Or he had until Jackson showed up to interrupt his peace.

“I wish it were that foolish.” Pouring two fingers of prime single malt from the bottle Bishop kept for guests, Jackson finally settled in the leather chair across from his quarry. “Here, you’re going to need that before we’re done.” Watching the other man set the glass on the coaster beside him, the attorney sprang the news he’d come to deliver. “Abigail is dead.”

“Dead?” Blanching at his words, Bishop automatically drained his glass. “She was fine yesterday when we talked.”

More than fine. The woman was aggravatingly upbeat to the point that she didn’t shut up for two hours. He was late for his family dinner. However, it wasn’t all mindless chatter. She’d brought him up to speed on her newest designs, the parties he was missing, the gossip he should know, and the professional rumors he might find interesting. Giving credit where credit was due, she’d turned him onto a couple of potential takeovers he might pursue. Sometimes Abby was a godsend. Or she had been.

“Yes, she was.” Jackson agreed. “Fine and healthy. Unfortunately, Abby decided to ignore the warnings not to drive after dark. She hit a patch of black ice near her cabin, went over an embankment, and plowed through several trees. She was dead before the second impact.”

“I don’t know what to say.” Bishop studied his empty glass. “Who’s taking care of business?”

Hopefully, none of the estranged relatives now circling her coffin like a kettle of vultures waiting to pick her bones clean.

“You are.” Jackson set his drink aside before catching Bishop’s eye. “She left everything to you with a caveat.”

“Why?” Bishop’s eyebrow rose at his statement. “That doesn’t make sense.”

He didn’t want or need anything Abby had. He could easily buy her out a hundred times over on his worst day, and she knew it.

“It makes more sense than you think, but you need to read this for the facts to gel.” Jackson slid the envelope across the desk, aware that his old friend needed to see, rather than hear, the shocking revelations within. “While I’ve never read the letter, I know the general contents.”

Tearing the seal, Bishop skimmed the handwritten page, garnering facts from fluff.

“I have a child?” He looked up in total disbelief. “Why didn’t Abby tell me as soon as she found out?”

He could think of a million reasons, none of which excused a betrayal of this magnitude.

“I can’t answer that.” He couldn’t divulge what he didn’t know. “I can tell you, Sofie’s not just any child. She’s a bright, beautiful little girl who looks more like Abby than you.” Staring at Bishop, Jackson was suddenly hit by the thought that something was wrong with his reaction. “Why aren’t you questioning paternity?”

“Why would I?” Bishop stared him down. “We had an encounter almost six years ago, and the child is five. The timing is right. Besides, we both know Abby wasn’t a liar, and she didn’t need my name or money. So, I’d say it’s highly unlikely that the girl was fathered by anyone else.”

Added to that, Abby wasn’t casual in her affairs. Not unless you counted them. The same free spirit that soared through her work didn’t apply to her relationships. The woman was faithful to a fault. She’d never cheat on a lover, much less her fiancé. Unfortunately, Alfonse didn’t feel the same. The rock he’d put on Abby’s finger didn’t curtail his wandering ways, nor did his hasty exit ease the gaping hole he’d left in her heart.

That wound was part of the reason she’d acted out of character that night. They both had. Each needed the comfort the other offered for vastly different reasons. One personal, the other professional. That they were briefly involved in college made it easy to tumble into bed together. They were only going where they’d been before. As simple as it seemed then, they both felt differently in the light of day.

“But not conclusive.” Jackson gently reminded him. “You haven’t asked for proof.”

“You wouldn’t be here without proof,” Bishop called his bluff. “Abby hadn’t been with anyone for months when we got together. She was still too raw from Alfonse’s betrayal and too wrapped up in designing her new shoe collection to come up for air. It took me two weeks to convince her to attend that party, and I dropped her back at her studio the next day after brunch.”

“Sounds like Abby.” Jackson snorted at how well they both knew the woman. “It was easier to live in her creative fantasies than in the real world. Maybe that’s why she wasn’t cut out to be a mother.”

“Maybe.” Bishop agreed. “I don’t think that matters now.”

“It doesn’t.” Jackson decided to drop the paternity test now that it wasn’t necessary. He didn’t want Bishop questioning how they’d acquired a DNA sample in the first place. It wasn’t difficult, but it wasn’t voluntary either. “Although your daughter goes by Sofie, her full name is Sophia Danielle Peterson. She turned five two days ago.”

“I see.” Bishop quirked a brow at him. “Where is she, and who is she living with?”

Not one of Abby’s relatives, or he wouldn’t know she existed.

“A small town in North Carolina.” Jackson removed a photograph from his briefcase and laid it on the desk. “The woman is Aila Peterson, her adoptive mother. She’s a divorced nurse practitioner working in a doctor’s office.” From the look on his face, Bishop found that unacceptable. “Don’t get that judgmental look. Sofie is well-loved and comfortably provided for. Her mother takes her to school every morning and picks her up from daycare after work. They do her homework together every night. Don’t think for a minute that the child doesn’t come first. She does, and she always has. Never doubt that. Aila is devoted to Sofie.”

“How do you know that?” There was more to this than met the eye. “Abby didn’t have someone watching them?”

“Hardly. Aila worked for Abby’s Obstetrician, and I handled the adoption.” Jackson knew sharing this information wasn’t wise, but he’d received a letter detailing his client’s final instructions as well. “Abby and Aila bonded over her pregnancy, and they kept in touch over the years. As strange as all this seems, Abby never regretted her decision to give her child to another woman. While she loved your daughter, she had no desire to be a mother. She believed Aila was best for Sofie, and I think she was right. From what I’ve seen over the years, the woman is a wonderful mother.”

“Far better than a workaholic father and a stream of nannies.” Bishop bluntly stated what Jackson wouldn’t. “Maybe, but that doesn’t excuse Abby’s actions. I had a right to know about that child. To be there from the start. To hold and love my child as a father should.”

“Unfortunately, life didn’t work out that way, so get over it.” Jackson was firm, though he agreed with the ruthless businessman sitting across from him. “Those years are lost. Accept it and move on. Love your child now as you would have then. Trust me when I tell you there’s more than enough love in that little girl’s heart for a mommy and a daddy. She’s a precious, precocious child her mom won’t mind sharing.”

“You’re right.” Bishop laid the letter aside. “Arrange a meeting with this Aila person next week at a place of her choosing. It’s best if we meet first in a neutral, non-threatening location. I’ll meet my daughter after I’ve determined my next step.”

“Don’t even think about taking that child from Aila.” Jackson finished his whisky. “From where I sit, that would be the worst possible move you could make.”

He’d help Aila stop him if he tried.

“I’m not entertaining thoughts either way.” He was still too busy trying to get his mind around the fact that he’d fathered a child at all. “If it makes you feel better, I only want to meet them. See how they interact. I’ll decide my next move from there. I will ask that you keep what you know between us. If there comes a point the world needs to know about Sofie, I’ll make the announcement my way.”

The last thing he wanted was the press descending on his daughter and her mother when they weren’t prepared for the nightmare.

“I can do that.” Jackson agreed before setting his empty glass aside. “Well, as interesting as all this is, I have a flight to catch in two hours. I’ll be in court in a couple of days, dealing with a messy divorce, and I want to fire on all cylinders. I’m coming against Cindy Gallagher. She’s hell on a good day. She’ll be worse on this one. The cheating wife she represents is her younger sister, so I’ll have a real fight on my hands.”

While Bishop had never met the woman, her reputation as one of the nastiest divorce attorneys in New York preceded her. He didn’t envy his old friend one bit. He was in for a hell of a fight.

“Yes, you will, and I wish you luck.” Bishop stood to shake hands with the other man. “You’ll need it. However, I’m going to ask you to do me a favor and arrange that meeting before you get sidetracked by your favorite opponent.”

“I’ll give Aila a call on the way to the airport.” Jackson agreed, knowing Bishop was right. While he and Gallagher were evenly matched, he had to stay on his toes if he wanted to win. That meant less important things could unintentionally fall by the wayside. “I’ll call you with her response.”

“I’ll be waiting.” Waiting and reading through the contracts on his desk. “Oh, and Jackson, I expect my request to be favorably received. If it isn’t, you can assure Ms. Peterson I will take stronger measures to ensure my next offer is.”

Catching the other man’s nod, Bishop watched him close the door behind him. Reaching for the large professional photograph, he studied the cute, snaggle-toothed child and the surprisingly attractive woman embracing her. While Sofie took after him in her coloring and curly hair, she had her mother’s features and eyes. However, there was no denying his child was going to be a tall, olive-skinned, mahogany-haired teen by the time she reached puberty. In fact, as startling as it was to see, his daughter resembled her surprisingly pretty, dark-haired adoptive mother more than she did the coolly beautiful blonde giving her life.

Locking the photograph away in a drawer, Bishop sat back in his chair and steepled his fingers. Although he had promised Jackson otherwise, he wasn’t comfortable leaving his child with that woman. He’d already lost too much time with the only offspring he’d ever have. That was a situation he’d remedy as soon as possible.

Grabbing his phone, he dialed his assistant and smiled when she answered on the first ring. Hanging up a few minutes later, he turned back to the contracts on his desk, confident Connie was hot on the trail of her newest assignment. When he returned to New York, he’d have four exceptional nannies of the mature, compassionate, no-nonsense variety from which to choose. In the end, he’d have the best of the best. He had that much faith in his assistant. She was thorough with her assignments. He expected her to be extra diligent with this one. He’d told her to interview potential candidates with the same care she’d use for her grandchildren. His final command did the trick.

Connie would be merciless in her quest, even if she had the wisdom not to ask why he’d made such an unusual request. She probably thought he was helping a new business associate settle in. That was fine with him. It wouldn’t be the first time. Nor the last. All that mattered was that she never considered that a nanny could be for him. The longer Sofie remained a secret, the more time he had to prepare for when she wasn’t. He was under no illusion that he could hide her existence forever. He was much too infamous for that.

CHAPTER TWO

Taylorsville, North Carolina

Staring at her reflection in the bathroom mirror, Aila Peterson slicked a touch of tinted gloss across her lips before making a disgusted moue. There wasn’t much she could do about her appearance. Jackson had called her at work to demand a meeting as soon as possible. She’d immediately known something was off. Something more than just the unexpected death of her daughter’s biological mother. However, Abby’s death shouldn’t impact her life beyond the loss of a dear friend. The adoption was legal and aboveboard. Airtight. Or it should be. But something in Jackson’s tone said it wasn’t.

In all the years she’d known him, Abby’s lawyer had never asked to meet on the spur of the moment. He’d always scheduled their yearly appointments weeks in advance. Since their last review was barely three months old, there wasn’t any reason he should need to see her so soon. Nothing good anyway. Straightening her black suit jacket, she ambled back into the reception area only to be met by Jenny with a file in hand.

Following the paralegal towards the familiar office, Aila resisted the urge to ask the other woman what this was about. As curious as she was, she knew better than to waste her breath. Jennifer wouldn’t betray her boss’s confidence by telling his client what was better coming from him. Sitting in her usual chair, Aila watched the other woman lay the file on Jackson’s desk and quietly depart the way she’d come. Sitting in silence, she waited for the lawyer to join her.

“Good morning, Aila.” Jackson swept through the door, took a seat behind his desk, and opened the file his paralegal had left behind. “I’m sorry for disturbing you like this, but Abby’s death changed the playing field.”

“How so?” Aila leaned forward in her chair. “We both know Sofie’s adoption is legal, so any relative of Abby’s crawling out of the woodwork doesn’t have a leg to stand on. We went through all the right channels to ensure that.”

Right down to Abby leaving a will clearly stating she didn’t want her crazy family having any contact with her biological daughter. Not unless Sofie chose to reach out to them when she was legally old enough to do so. But that was her decision when the time was right. In the meantime, she wouldn’t have her mind polluted by malicious gossip while she was still too young to filter the truth from the lies.

“Yes, we did.” Jackson agreed. “However, dotting those I’s and crossing those T’s don’t have anything to do with Sofie’s father.”

“Sofie’s father?” Aila felt the blood drain from her face. “That creep doesn’t care two bits about his daughter.”

“The creep didn’t know he had a daughter to care about.” Jackson calmly informed her. “Abby never told him that she was pregnant.”

“You can’t be serious.” Aila’s heart dropped to her knees. “You are. What does that mean for us?”

“Nothing right now,” Jackson stated honestly. “Sofie’s father’s name was listed as unknown on the birth certificate.” That paperwork had been amended since Abby’s death, but Aila didn’t need to know that. “I’ve convinced Bishop not to do anything rash until he knows more about you and his daughter.”

“I guess that’s something.” Aila leaned forward. “So, how do we go about letting him know more about us?”

“By meeting him.” Jackson laid the file on his desk. “He wants to meet you as soon as possible. Not Sofie. Just you.”

“I see.” Aila sat back in her chair, deep in thought. “I’m not sure I want to do that. While you seem to know this Bishop well, I don’t even know his full name.”

“I’ve known Bishop for years,” Jackson admitted. “Although I didn’t know he was Sofie’s father until a couple of days ago. He was my client a long time ago when I lived in New York.” Aila nodded, knowing Jackson was licensed in both N.C. and his home state. “We amicably parted ways once his business interests outgrew my realm of expertise, although we’ve stayed in contact over the years. Bishop is responsible for Abby becoming my client. He brought us together initially.”

And Jackson had brought Abby to her boss when the woman relocated to Taylorsville for the duration of her pregnancy.

“So, you aren’t friends?” Aila saw any help from that direction dwindling. “I was hoping you were.”

“Not close, no, not anymore; but we do respect each other a great deal.” Jackson offered. “If it makes you feel any better, Bishop knows you’re a good mother. He also knows I think taking Sofie from you would be the worst possible move he could make.”

“Thank you,” Aila spoke quietly. “I appreciate that, and I hope he takes your advice. Right now, neither of us has a clue what he’ll do, do we?”

“I don’t believe you have anything to worry about on that front.” Not unless she blew their meeting. “Bishop isn’t prepared to raise a child now or in the foreseeable future. Managing his empire takes all his time and effort. It has for years. That’s probably why the man doesn’t have a wife and family.”

“Empire?” Aila closed her eyes and took a deep breath. “Exactly who is Sofie’s father, and do I want to know?”

“Maybe not, but you need to.” Jackson pushed the file towards her. “Aila, don’t go ballistic when I tell you this.”

“I won’t,” Aila promised. “That won’t get me anywhere.”

“Not really.” Jackson agreed. “While I won’t tell you the circumstances of Sofie’s conception, I will tell you her father’s identity.”

“Then do it.” Aila knew she didn’t want to know by the look on his face. “Just spit it out.”

“Fine.” Jackson agreed. “Sofie’s father is Nolan Bishop and, yes, it’s that Nolan Bishop.”

“The hotel magnate?” Aila fervently prayed it wasn’t. “You’re kidding me.”

“I wish I were.” Jackson patted her hand. “From your reaction, I see you’re familiar with the name.”

“Who isn’t?” Aila fired back. “He dates up-and-coming models and starlets.”

“Or they date him,” Jackson said quietly. “Don’t let what you read in the rags influence your opinion of Bishop. Those relationships aren’t serious, and his partners all know the score from the start. He’s like you in that department. Too busy with his professional life to develop a personal life. That he wants to slow down enough to build a relationship with his daughter is a good sign that Sofie matters greatly to him.”

“I’ll trust you on that one.” Aila blinked back tears of frustration. “I have a feeling he’ll make my life hell if I don’t cooperate with his wishes. But, between you and me, I don’t like this. Any of it. I won’t let this Bishop toy with Sofie. He’ll either be a permanent part of her life or he won’t get his foot through the door.”

Jackson laughed at how fiercely Aila was fighting for her child, and the battle hadn’t even begun. He already saw the sparks flying. With any luck, she and Bishop would quickly work through their differences for Sofie’s sake. Somehow, he thought they would, although they might butt heads in the beginning. He’d lie if he claimed he didn’t expect that. However, neither of them was unreasonable. They’d quickly arrive on the same page for their daughter’s sake. If they didn’t, he’d verbally knock some sense into them.

“I’m sure you’ll make that clear at your first meeting.” Jackson’s voice cut through her thoughts. “One that he expects to happen between the eleventh and fourteenth at a place of your choosing.”

“Excuse me?” Aila wasn’t sure whether to laugh at his audacity or be offended. “Bishop seriously expects me to jump at his command. I don’t think so.”

She whispered a few choice words for the man under her breath before reminding herself not to utter any such thing in Sofie’s presence. Her daughter would never let her hear the end of it. Not since learning her best friend’s dad had to put a dollar in the Swear Jar when he said a bad word. So far, the girls had gone through the local drive-thru three times on his largesse.

“It’s not like that.” Jackson backtracked, realizing he’d used a poor choice of words under the circumstances. “Bishop isn’t commanding you to do anything.” Yes, he was, but Aila didn’t need to know that. “He would like to meet you as soon as possible. Those dates are the only days he has free for the next three months.”

“If he’s that booked up, how will he ever find time for Sofie?” Aila wondered at the wisdom of meeting him at all. “It doesn’t sound like he has time for a child.”

“He’ll make time,” Jackson reassured her. “Right now, he has several major deals intersecting. The best advice I can give you is to work with the man. It’s in your best interest to cooperate. Bishop is very wealthy and powerful. He’s used to getting what he wants, even if he’s forced to take it. Meet him halfway. He isn’t autocratic or rude. His bluntness is more necessary than outright arrogance. You’ll see that the longer you know him.”

“Wonderful.” Aila wondered briefly how she got herself into this mess, then realized she hadn’t. Abby had. By not telling the father of her child that she was pregnant. “Again, I’ll take you at your word. I don’t think I’ll sleep a wink until this meeting is over and I know that man isn’t trying to take my child.”

“Right now, that won’t happen,” Jackson repeated. “I’ve told him you’re a wonderful mother, and Sofie is happy. When he gets to know you, he’ll see I wasn’t lying. In the end, I believe you’ll reach a joint custody solution that works for both of you.”

“I hope you’re right.” Aila glanced at her watch only to realize her lunch hour was almost over. “I must leave soon, or I’ll be late for my next appointment. Tell your client we can meet on the eleventh at Sadie’s. It’s a Wednesday night, so the place won’t be too busy. It will also give me an extra day to digest everything since the office is closed on Thursday.”

Forget the norms, Sadie’s did steady business all week. But Thursday through Sunday, they were swamped. If they were going to have any privacy, then their meeting had to be on Wednesday. Whether she wanted it or not.

“Works for me.” Jackson agreed. “I’ll give Bishop a call and let you know his response. Are you available another day if the eleventh doesn’t work out?”

“Any of those days is fine for me. Aila admitted. “Just let me know as soon as possible so I can make arrangements for Sofie.”

“I’ll do that.” Jackson closed her file before looking at her. “Aila, keep your chin up. This isn’t as bad as you think it is.”

“We’ll see; it may be worse.” Aila rose to her feet, not surprised when Jackson did the same. “Jax, thanks for everything. Just give me a call when you know the date. I’ll take it from there.”

Nodding, Jackson watched her walk out the door, knowing Aila would be preoccupied for the rest of the day. It wasn’t easy learning her daughter’s imaginary father wasn’t so imaginary after all. She probably wouldn’t be worth much, professionally speaking, for the rest of the day. He’d wanted her to drop by after work for just that reason. Unfortunately, they couldn’t find a time that worked for them both. They’d had to settle for a lunch-hour meeting instead.

All Jackson could do at this point was hope he’d reassured her that Bishop wasn’t interested in taking Sofie from her. Not yet anyway. He hoped he was right. He’d advised against it. However, he had no assurances that his advice would be taken. Bishop could be unpredictable at the best of times.

Not that he had time to worry about his next move. He needed to set that appointment for the eleventh or he’d have both parties breathing down his neck. Added to that, his next client was walking through the door looking none too happy with the divorce papers he’d been served.

CHAPTER THREE

Glancing up from the tabletop menu, Aila stared at the man confidently striding across the restaurant as she rose slowly to her feet. Absorbing his appearance, she was glad she’d changed into a pretty summer dress and retouched her makeup before leaving the office. Just casually dropping by Sadie’s after work would have made a devastating first impression.

Judging by his impeccable appearance and well-tailored suit, the dressy tee shirt and slacks she wore under her white lab coat wouldn’t cut it. She’d have been at a serious disadvantage from the start. Handicapped was the last way she needed to feel, not looking at the man approaching her so purposefully.

“Miss Peterson.” The smooth, commanding voice perfectly matched his appearance. “Nolan Bishop.”

Shaking the hand extended towards her, Aila realized his dark hair was deep auburn up close, and his hazel eyes weren’t hazel at all. They were a disconcerting pale green she’d only seen on her computer screen. All in all, Nolan Bishop made her uneasy from his weathered good looks to his intensity. Tall and powerfully built, he was intimidating simply by his size. She didn’t need all the bits and pieces she’d gleaned from her research to unnerve her. The man did that fine on his own.

Forcing a smile, she ignored the undeniable truth haunting her. From everything she’d read, the one thing this man was known for, even more than his business acumen, was his ruthlessness in the face of a challenge. Nolan Bishop didn’t accept failure. If he couldn’t buy what he wanted for a fair price, he waited for that vulnerable moment to take it.

As far as Aila was concerned, she was staring at the enemy intent on taking her daughter, and she was equally determined to stop him. That was her problem in a nutshell. Considering she was just a nobody lacking the resources to defeat a juggernaut, she wasn’t looking forward to fighting skirmishes she couldn’t win.

“Aila Peterson.” She sat back down on her barstool. “We can eat in here or in the dining room if you’d prefer.”

“How long before the dinner crowd overflows the bar?” Bishop glanced around the room, taking in the one couple in a far booth more immersed in each other than their surroundings. “If it stays like this for a while, we’re better off in here, away from prying eyes. What do you think?”

Aila wasn’t sure she liked how intently he was studying her. While she knew what he was seeing, she didn’t know what he was thinking. He had a mean poker face. However, she was pretty enough if his tastes ran to fit, curvy brunettes with deep blue eyes and even features. If they didn’t, too bad. Adding to her insecurities, the man towered over her by a foot on her five feet five inches of height. Swallowing her fears, she decided to answer him honestly.

“We have another hour and a half before the place fills up.” The conversation should have been finished long before that happened. “I’ll double-check, but that table over there should be fine.”

Catching the bartender’s eye, she motioned in the direction of a table in a darkened corner isolated from everyone. Getting his nod of assent, she led her guest to their new location. Preparing to sit, she was mildly surprised to find her chair pulled out for her. Thanking Bishop, she took the seat he offered and handed him a menu.

“The food is really good here.” She watched a familiar waitress fill their water glasses. “It should be. Sadie opened the place forty years ago. She’s been going strong ever since.”

“Any recommendations?” Bishop closed the menu. “Everything looks tempting.”

“Sadie’s is known for that filet you were eyeing.” Aila was amused that he asked for recommendations when he owned restaurants. “Anything with seafood is a good bet, too. The crab cakes and scallop-stuffed flounder are delicious. Since we aren’t that far from the coast, the ingredients are so fresh you can taste the ocean.”

“Then I’ll have the filet this time and save the seafood for later.” Bishop ignored the slight lift of a feminine eyebrow. “We’ll meet again.” He quietly informed her. “There’s still a lot to learn about each other.” Even though he’d done his due diligence, he hadn’t discovered much more about the woman than Jackson had already told him. “Still a lot of decisions to be made. I don’t have a clue what to do about Sofie. I don’t think I’ve fully accepted I have a daughter yet.”

“That’s understandable.” Aila agreed. “I haven’t fully accepted that Sofie has a father yet.”

Catching his soft bark of disbelief, she realized how ridiculous that sounded.

“Biologically, I know she has one. But I didn’t know she had one who cared.” Aila caught the pain in Bishop’s eyes as his gaze shuttered. “Abby made it sound like you weren’t in Sofie’s life by choice. I didn’t know she never shared her pregnancy with you.”

Aila’s tone was earnest.

“I know,” Bishop admitted. “However, I would have been in Sofie’s life from the start if I’d known.” Motioning the waitress over, Bishop ordered a glass of unsweetened tea heavy on lemon. “I would never miss the first five years of my child’s life by choice, no matter what Abby said.”

That he never wanted to be a father was irrelevant. He would have stepped up to the plate. Been the man his father never was. Besides, that child was his blood, and he already loved her sight unseen. He’d been shocked to realize he felt that way within hours of learning of Sofie’s existence. He never expected to have a family. Learning that he already did filled a void he never knew he had.

“While that’s good to know,” Aila’s gaze was piercing. “You have missed those years, so I don’t know where we go from here.”

Bishop digested her words. The woman sitting across from him was full of surprises. She was both no-nonsense and much prettier in person than she was in her photograph. Shapely and feminine, she wasn’t as thin or striking as the women he usually dated. However, she was a head-turner. She was also a far cry from his past lovers and infinitely more appealing in a very real way.

“We don’t go anywhere,” Bishop noted fear in her eyes. “We get to know each other.” He paused, gathering his thoughts. “When the time is right, I’ll meet Sofie, and we’ll go from there.”

Refusing to waver under his hard stare, Aila reluctantly nodded, not sure she liked the direction things were taking. Or the fact that the man sitting across from her was in control. They both knew she couldn’t fight him if she tried. Not successfully. He had too much wealth and power. Compounding matters, no one knew the exact amount of his fortune. What the elusive “they” did know was that his assets were worth billions and growing every year.

“Why don’t I start by telling you things you won’t read online or in a magazine?” Sensing her unease, Bishop offered an olive branch. “Things that matter more to me than the media.”

“I’d like that.” There was only so much she could learn online, and only a fraction of that was reliable. “I’ll tell you about me after that if you want.”

“I want.” Bishop watched her take a sip from the glass of red wine he’d ordered. While he wasn’t much of a drinker in any setting, he hoped the wine would cut the very real tension between them. Beyond that, he’d get insight into the woman sitting across from him. How she responded to the door he’d just opened would be a major point in her favor or against her. From what he could see, she approached alcohol the way he did. With tempered pleasure.

A glass of wine with dinner or an occasional nightcap was fine. Anything more was off-limits. He’d watched drugs and alcohol topple empires and vowed early on not to make that mistake. He’d kept that vow most of his life. Unfortunately, the one time he didn’t resulted in the life-altering repercussions he so recently discovered. While he didn’t regret his daughter’s existence, he did regret the circumstances of her conception and the years he’d lost. A single moment of weakness cost him a lifetime of experiences he could never replace.

“Why don’t you start by telling me about your accent?” Aila asked what she wanted to know most. “I hear the Scots, but there’s something more.”

“I lived in Australia until I was ten,” Bishop informed her. “After twenty years in New York, my accents are mostly gone.” Aila silently agreed. “We moved back to Scotland to live with my mother’s family when my parents separated.”

“I didn’t know the Australia part.” Her research hadn’t disclosed that. “That’s interesting.”

“I still visit once or twice a year.” Bishop toyed with his wine glass. “My father left me a ranch in the Outback and business interests in Sydney and Brisbane to oversee.”

Aila watched him take a sip of wine as she digested his words.

“Other than saying the rest of my family lives in Scotland, there isn’t much to tell. I practiced international corporate law for a few years in my uncle’s firm. Eventually, I decided to go in a different direction. There wasn’t much room for advancement, and I didn’t want to go out on my own. Abandoning my legal career didn’t go over well with my family. We didn’t speak for fifteen years.”

Looking at the man sitting across from her, Aila suddenly understood things she’d read that didn’t make sense. Like, why would a man who had everything bury himself in his work? Most of the articles she’d read were from business publications, not entertainment magazines. While he did appear occasionally in the gossip rags, it wasn’t often, and it was always with a different woman on his arm.

“By the time I left London, I’d saved enough money to move to New York to go into business with a close friend. Not enough to live on, but enough to make a desperate investment that couldn’t fail.”

Aila vaguely recalled reading this part of his story.

“We opened a small restaurant and nightclub in the wrong part of town that should have failed within months. Somehow, we made it. The first two years, we shared the dump above the club and pretended we weren’t hanging on by our fingernails. Halfway through that second year, the right critic visited. She put us on the map. Two years later, we realized we had different visions and parted ways. Ryan kept the nightclub, and I kept the restaurant. I expanded into hotels from there. You know the rest of the story.”

No, she didn’t, not really. But she knew enough for now. For whatever reason, she wasn’t all that interested in the specifics. She knew his ex-partner was a successful nightclub owner, and Bishop, well, Bishop had it all. From what she’d gathered, his businesses were solid. Very solid, in ways that didn’t bode well for her.

Glancing at the man across from her, Aila decided that she couldn’t care less about any of that. She was more than capable of providing a comfortable, stable life for her child on her own. She didn’t need anything Nolan Bishop had to offer, and she could prove it. Nothing beyond the fatherly love he seemed eager to give his child. Truthfully, her daughter would probably be better off without his love or money.

She was far more concerned with how Sofie would fit into Bishop’s life and his busy schedule than with anything else. The man had business interests all over the world. She knew he traveled constantly. As well as hotels and restaurants, he dabbled in the tech realm. Beyond that, she wasn’t sure exactly what comprised Bishop Enterprises.

What she did know was that Bishop’s vast empire was widely diversified. It became even more so when he inherited control of Abby’s lucrative clothing and accessories lines until Sofie came of age. Her child was already a very wealthy little girl, even if she didn’t know it. Without anything she or her father could give her.

“I’m assuming your father was the Australian.” Aila seized on the inconsequential. “Did you see him after your parents divorced?”

“My father was about as Aussie as they come.” Bishop laid his knife aside. “His great-great-grandfather came through Botany Bay two hundred years ago, and the family never left.” Bishop ignored the slight widening of her eyes. “The first Nolan Bishop was an impoverished nobleman turned highwayman who was given the choice of the noose or deportation. He chose not to swing.”

Choking on her wine, Aila wasn’t quite sure what to say to that.

“To answer your second question, my father and I reconnected five years ago.” Bishop saw no reason to deny the truth. His father’s desertion had gone a long way in making him the man he was today. “We didn’t have a relationship until I’d made a name for myself in the business world. He reached out to me when he needed what I had to offer. As crass as that sounds, it was the first step to our reconciliation.”

“That’s pretty sad.” Aila took a bite of salad. “No child should grow up without their father.”

“You’ve raised Sofie without me.” Nolan reminded her. “From what I hear, she’s turned out fine.”

“Sofie’s had wonderful men in her life since the day she was born.” Aila looked him straight in the eyes. “I made sure she would have that before I adopted her.”

“How could you possibly do that?” Nolan toyed with his napkin. “You weren’t married, and I don’t think you’re referring to the men you’ve dated. You don’t seem like that kind of woman.”

Aila wanted to ask him what kind of woman he meant. Since she had a good idea, she could say, No, she wasn’t that kind of woman. She’d never parade her boyfriends through her child’s life if she’d had any. They weren’t around long enough. She hadn’t had a serious relationship since her divorce. Not surprisingly, the circumstances ending her marriage left a bad taste in her mouth. Besides, she was much too busy with her patients and being a single mother to have the time and energy to devote to romantic entanglements.

“If you mean what I think you do, I’m not.” Aila’s tone confirmed he was wandering into territory off-limits to a virtual stranger. “I don’t have time to date. Not seriously. I’m too busy with work and raising Sofie to have anything left over for anyone else.”

Watching Aila finish her stuffed shrimp, Bishop realized he felt much the same. His first love consumed him years ago. He’d been much too busy globe-trotting in the years since wheeling and dealing to make time for a wife or family. To be honest, he’d never wanted either.

He’d watched his parents’ marriage implode as a child, and his mom’s second marriage wasn’t much better. She and Ken had stayed together through the rocky early years to find a semblance of contentment in the latter years. But that was the most he could say. Frankly, he found it much easier to seek feminine companionship when he needed it and leave it at that. His life was complicated enough without added drama.

“Besides, Sofie and I don’t need anyone else.” Aila volunteered as she laid her fork aside. “We’re lucky that way. My boss and her husband are Sofie’s godparents. They treat her like the grandchild they’ll never have. Sofie’s best friend Sara lives across the street with her three siblings. Her parents treat Sofie like part of their brood, so she’s experienced being part of a more traditional family. Since I’ve never been much for dating, anyone I’ve gone out with was much too casual to ever meet my child. All in all, your daughter has led a sheltered life surrounded by wonderful people who love her just the way she is. So, yes, I’d say she’s turned out fine.”

“That’s good to know,” Bishop commented, glancing over the dessert menu. “How’s the carrot cake?”

As far as he was concerned, their meeting was winding down. He was pleased with how the evening had gone. He’d discovered everything he wanted to know and more. Aila had made a favorable first impression. He could rest easy knowing that his daughter was in good hands for now. Unless something changed, he would take his time mapping his next move.

Right now, he was clueless about what to do where Sofie was concerned. He’d barely scratched the tip of the iceberg when it came to the woman sitting across from him. While he was pleasantly surprised so far, that wasn’t a guarantee that he wouldn’t uncover secrets that changed his mind. He still had a lot of homework to do before he reached his conclusion. He also had to meet his daughter. But he was content to leave things as they were for the present.

“Probably the best you’ll ever eat,” Aila answered honestly. “I don’t care if your hotels have five-star restaurants; there are some things fancy establishments just can’t touch.”

“Is that so?” Bishop raised an eyebrow at her praise. “Then I think I’ll give it a try. What would you like?”

“The apple spice cake.” Aila didn’t have to think. “It has this incredible brown sugar icing that will knock your socks off. Again, it’s an old family recipe we can’t figure out. There’s some kind of spice that keeps eluding everyone. We get close, but that’s not good enough.”

Bishop wondered briefly who the mythical “we” were but decided not to ask. It wasn’t important right now. However, tasting the cakes was. He was always on the lookout for gifted chefs and reproducible recipes. He might be on to something here.

“Then we’ll have to share.” Nolan placed their order, including two cups of decaf, before surrendering the menu. “I’m not sure when we’ll be able to do this again. I’m thinking about three weeks. I’m leaving the country tomorrow night to fly to Israel. I’ll be there for at least two weeks, maybe a little longer. We should be able to meet right after I get back.”

“Just have your assistant call me,” Aila added cream to her coffee. “I’ll free my schedule. Do you want to meet Sofie then?”

She wasn’t ready if he was.

“Not yet,” Bishop shook his head. “We need to get comfortable with each other first. Sofie will pick up on any tension between us. That won’t accomplish anything positive.”

“You’re right.” Aila savored a bite of cake. “I haven’t discussed anything with Sofie. Nothing beyond telling her that her dad was coming into our lives and that you’d meet when the time was right. She’s curious, but not that excited to have her world turned upside down.”

“That’s understandable.” Bishop wasn’t all that interested in turning any of their universes upside down, either, although he would if he needed to. “I think you’re smart in how you’re handling this.”

“I’m trying.” Aila agreed. “It’s not like any of us know what we’re doing here.”

“I couldn’t agree with you more.” He also couldn’t agree more that he’d probably just tasted the best carrot cake he’d ever had in his life. “I know I don’t, but I think we’re both committed to making the best of a bad situation.”

“We can’t do anything else.” Aila agreed, deciding it was time to change to a safer topic. She didn’t want Bishop thinking too much. “What do you say to a bite of Sadie’s apple spice cake?”

Cutting a piece of cake with her clean spoon, she deposited it on his plate. Taking the bite offered, Bishop analyzed the flavors before passing his verdict.

“You’ve got the spices right.” He took another bite of cake minus the icing. “It’s the proportions that are wrong. The recipe doesn’t use anything other than cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, cloves, and ginger. It’s the proprietary blend that sets this cake apart. When you figure out the correct ratios, you’ll have the secret.”

“You’re probably right.” Aila wasn’t all that surprised he’d figured out what the rest of them hadn’t. Bishop seemed to excel at everything he tried. Why should his palate be any different? “What do you think of the carrot cake?”

“It’s the best I’ve ever tasted,” Bishop stated. “I’d love to have the recipe for my restaurants.”

She’d just bet he would. However, that wasn’t happening any time soon. The story might change if Sadie ever decided to close the place, but she’d drive a hard bargain. Aila smirked, thinking she’d like to be a fly on the wall if that ever happened. It would be the deal of the century if he pulled it off.

CHAPTER FOUR

Glancing at her reflection in the rear-view mirror, Aila refused to admit how much she was looking forward to yet another meeting with Sofie’s father. As unreal as it seemed, Nolan was in town for the fourth time in less than eight weeks to see her. Her research hadn’t lied. The man was insanely busy but still made time to see her. To inch ever closer to the day he’d meet his daughter for the first time.

They’d met every time for dinner at Sadie’s and spent a few pleasant hours getting more familiar with each other. Somewhere along the way, he’d become “Nolan” in her mind. She wasn’t sure how that happened. Everyone called the man “Bishop” to his face, including her. His very demeanor discouraged familiarity. However, what was done was done.

Shaking her head, she wasn’t comfortable with the change. But she wasn’t dwelling on it either. Not now. She’d ponder Bishop’s sacrifices instead. Considering his frantic schedule, he’d made impressive efforts to prove his dedication to Sofie. The man was going way above what she ever expected. Far more than she’d asked.

The upside to their meetings, she’d come to know him surprisingly well, considering that Bishop was a private man. Forget what she read in the magazines. That was a carefully crafted public persona. The real man was someone different. Someone she respected and liked. As much as she could like anyone who was poised to snatch her only child. She liked him well enough that she’d decided he could meet Sofie when he was ready, as long as it wasn’t a school night.

Swirling her lip brush across her favorite lipstick, Aila applied a thin coat of the subtle brick-red pigment before closing the tube and stuffing it back in her purse. Taking one last look at herself, she would have to do. She couldn’t fix anything now. She’d barely had time to run home, check in with the babysitter, change into a dress, and redo her makeup before she’d hit the road. Opening the car door, she exited her vehicle and headed for the restaurant. They weren’t meeting at Sadie’s or any of the other places she frequented. They were meeting at one of the pricier local treasures hidden in the boonies about thirty miles North of town.

Entering the restaurant, Aila quickly noted Bishop sitting in a darkened corner. It wasn’t hard, considering he dominated the room from the shadows. Bypassing the hostess, she watched the man rise at her appearance. Of everything she could say about him, rude wasn’t on the list. Not to her anyway. Brisk, straightforward, no-nonsense; maybe. Rude or disrespectful, no. His manners were impeccable.

Bishop always pulled her chair out and made sure she was comfortably seated. He opened the doors for her and escorted her safely to her car. He would have waited for her in the parking lot if she’d allowed it. However, she drew the line at taking chivalry that far. Entering together would feel too much like a date when nothing could be farther from the truth. Each visit was just another step towards integrating Sofie into her father’s life. Nothing more and nothing less.

Aila wasn’t sure how she felt about that. From what she’d learned from her lawyer, Bishop could demand full custody of Sofie if he wanted. While they didn’t think he would win, he could try. That he could prove Abby never told him she was pregnant, or gave him the option of being a father, were strong points in his favor. That he’d reached out to his daughter’s adoptive mother within hours of learning Sofie existed bolstered his case. Like it or not, Bishop played his cards right from day one. Shaking her thoughts, Aila decided not to look for trouble where there wasn’t any. She’d just smile and be pleasant instead.

“Aila.” Bishop rose to his feet as he pulled her chair out for her, imperceptibly admiring her appearance. While he wasn’t thrilled with the masculine attention she’d received walking across the room, he appreciated what she was wearing. The modest, shoulder-baring, sapphire silk halter dress suited her in both style and color. “I’m sorry for the long drive, but this was the most convenient place to meet.” He was flying out later tonight. “I went ahead and ordered our drinks. They should be here in a moment.”

“Thanks.” Aila watched their waitress set her glass of tea in front of her before filling her water glass. “Did you order the appetizer already?”

“Not yet.” Ordering her tea with lemon was easy. After that first night, they’d foregone the alcohol in favor of the local favorite. The rest of the menu wasn’t so simple. He’d noticed Aila preferred variety over predictability. “We can have whatever you want.”

He had an idea it would be the mushrooms, but he’d see if he had it right.

“The Tapas sampler looks delicious.” Aila closed her menu before nodding towards the glass the waitress had set in front of him. “It looks like you’re having something different tonight.”

“I am.” Nolan studied the ruby liquid in his glass. “They had a new wine on the menu, and I’m interested in adding to one of my restaurants. I thought I’d give it a try to see if it’s worth the price. You’re welcome to do the same if you’d like.”

Shaking her head, Aila knew that wouldn’t be wise, considering she was already tired and had a long drive home. A glass of wine wasn’t the smartest move she could make under the circumstances. As much as she might like one, the answer was no.

“Not tonight.” Aila took a sip of her tea. “I haven’t eaten in a long time, so I think it would affect me more than usual.”

“Then have the first sip and tell me what you think.” Considering it was an expensive risk, he welcomed her opinion. “It’s a fairly rare Pinot Noir from Burgundy, so the upfront cost of adding it to the wine list is pretty hefty.”

Accepting his offer, Aila took a sip from his glass. Savoring the various notes, she decided the wine was pleasing to the palate. She’d certainly pay the by-the-glass price if she had the opportunity.

“You’ll like it.” She set the glass back by his plate. “More importantly, I think your patrons will like it.”

“I was hoping you’d say that.” Bishop took a sip from his glass and knew she was right. “I second your opinion. I still need to do a final cost analysis, but I think this is a winner. I’ll get a third opinion from my Master Sommelier and take it from there.”

Nodding, Aila still found it odd that Bishop was having a glass of wine even if he had a good reason for doing so. Since that first night, he’d stuck to coffee or tea. At first, she’d thought it unusual, but then she’d remembered some ridiculous article slamming him as a health nut. From what she’d seen, nothing about the man supported that theory.

He ate and drank what he pleased. He simply did it in moderation. That didn’t surprise her at all. His habits were very much in keeping with his personality. As for the rest of the article, yes, he was in great shape for a man his age. He ought to be. He’d let it slip in passing that he hit the gym regularly, whether he was home or traveling. However, there were other things she was pondering far more than the man’s lifestyle choices.

“Why now?” Looking him fearlessly in the eyes, Aila tossed the question bothering her the most on the table without warning. Bishop seemed mellower than usual, and she was feeling brave. “It’s been five years since Sofie was born.”

Closer to six since conception.

“You already know the answer to that question.” Bishop gently reminded her. “Jackson filled you in on the basics. However, we both know that’s not what you’re asking.”

“No, it’s not.” Aila agreed. “I do know the basics; however, there are still a lot of holes in the story. Things like why you didn’t suspect something was up when your lover dropped off the radar for close to a year.” Ignoring the sudden quirk of his brow, Aila continued full speed ahead. “While I don’t have a right to know, I’d like to for Sofie’s sake. She’s bright and inquisitive already. She’ll ask a lot of questions when she’s older. Questions I can’t answer with us both ignoring the elephant in the room.”

“Then ask what you want to know.” Bishop lightly touched her hand. “You have that right as Sofie’s mother.”

“I just did.” Aila absently curled her hand into his. “Why now, and why weren’t you curious?”

“Because I never knew I had a child until Abby died,” Bishop repeated what she already knew. “As for the other, we weren’t lovers, and Abby’s disappearing for months at a time wasn’t unusual. She did that every time she started a new collection. We still talked on the phone when one or the other of us came up for air as we’d done for years.”

“Oh.” Aila digested his words. “I guess that makes sense.”

Although she didn’t quite get how they weren’t lovers if they’d had a child together. Watching the plate of Tapas descend in front of them, Aila knew she had a puzzled look on her face. Taking the appetizer plate Bishop offered, she knew the man was reading her every thought written across her face. She’d never been good at hiding her feelings, even when she wanted to.

“As hard as it is to believe, there was nothing about Abby’s actions that tipped me off that things weren’t the way they’d always been.” Bishop watched Aila place a garlic shrimp and a bacon-wrapped scallop on her plate. “Nothing until Jackson showed up at my family home in Scotland to give me a letter Abby wrote soon after Sofie’s birth. It didn’t tell me much except that I had a daughter. The whole thing was a nasty shock coming on top of her death. Sofie was the last thing I expected to read. I’ve always been careful. I’m not good father material even if I’m willing to try.”

Aila wasn’t sure she agreed with that assessment. Maybe Bishop didn’t think he was. But she had a feeling reality was far different. He wouldn’t work so hard now if he hadn’t accepted the role. That he hadn’t been given a choice didn’t matter. That he was responding appropriately did.

“I’ll take your word for it.” Aila toyed with her napkin. “Abby was close-mouthed about her pregnancy and Sofie’s father. I should have known something was off, but I didn’t. I was glad to jump to the obvious conclusion. As bad as it sounds, I was so happy to get the child I wanted that I refused to dig any deeper. I’ve regretted that choice since Jackson told me the truth.”

“Nothing you’ve said surprises me.” Bishop glanced at the menu before adding his order to Aila’s. “It’s Abby’s M.O.”

“I’m sorry to hear that.” Aila handed her menu to the waitress. “I never saw that side of her.”

“Most people didn’t.” But he had. “I think it’s time you hear the sordid truth Abby wouldn’t share with you.”

“Okay.” Aila absently took a second sip of wine without asking. “Sordid away.”

“Sofie was the result of a one-night stand that shouldn’t have happened.” That was as close as he’d come to admitting he’d had sex with a woman he didn’t want because she was there. “Abby and I were both under a lot of stress, so we weren’t thinking clearly. Add a couple of drinks too many to a reckless situation, and we acted foolishly. One thing led to another, and we had a discrete indiscretion neither of us wanted to repeat.”

“While I understand the circumstances,” Aila continued. “I don’t understand why Abby never told you she was pregnant.”

“I do.” Bishop toyed with his wine glass. “She made a snap judgment based on her perception.” He spoke as though that explained everything. “An expansion into Canada was hitting major roadblocks I never saw coming. A business rival was using illegal tactics to destroy a merger I’d worked five years to bring to the table. My company would have taken a devastating hit if that deal had fallen through. Abby assumed I was in enough distress that a little thing like a baby wouldn’t matter to me. She was wrong.” Bishop reached out to take Aila’s hand. “Very wrong. By the time the dust settled, I had the merger and my rival’s company, but Abby was nowhere to be found. You know why that didn’t bother me. I knew she’d resurface eventually.”

“If you say so.” Aila’s tone was dubious. “But that doesn’t explain all the years in between.”

“I guess it doesn’t.” Bishop chose his next words carefully. “The fact that Abby refused to deal with unpleasantness does. I don’t believe she would have shared her pregnancy under any circumstances.”

“I’m sorry.” It was her turn to recoil from his words. “I didn’t know.”

“Why would you?” Bishop shook his head. “It was easier for Abby to do what she did and hope I never discovered the truth. Easier, but unrealistic. As far as Abby was concerned, she’d done right by Sofie, and the child was all that mattered. My right to know I was a father didn’t enter into it.”

“You’re kidding me.” Looking at the pain in his eyes, Aila knew he wasn’t. “It’s hard to believe anyone could be that self-absorbed.”

“As wonderful as she was in a lot of ways, Abby was selfish when her back was against the wall.” Bishop motioned for his water glass to be refilled. “The thought never crossed her mind that I might want to be a father. Honestly, the thought never crossed my mind. That doesn’t change the fact I would have been there for her if I’d known.”

“Unfortunately, it didn’t happen that way.” Aila attempted to sound strong when fear was making her weak. “So, where do we go now?”

“I don’t know.” Bishop looked her in the eyes. “While I don’t think taking Sofie from you will help any of us, I don’t have the answer yet. For one thing, I still haven’t met my daughter. For another, I haven’t worked out exactly where she fits within my business obligations. I can’t do that until we meet. I’d like to do that before I leave.”

“You intend to make time for her?” Aila demanded.

“I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t.” Bishop toyed with his glass. “While I never wanted a wife or a family, I have one. Sofie is my child. I want her in my life.”

“I’m glad you said that.” Aila fixed him with a firm glare. “Sofie is an affectionate child. She loves deeply. It would destroy her if you came into her life only to ignore her for work. I’ve never done that, and I won’t let you start now.”

“That’s good to know.” Bishop watched their server walking towards them with their plates in hand. “Because I won’t treat her like my father treated me. That’s one of the reasons my parents divorced. He was too involved in his business ventures to make time for his family.”

The other was infidelity, but he wouldn’t go there.

“I never had a relationship with the man until he needed my help to stop a competitor from destroying everything he’d built. Fortunately, he’d changed enough over the years he’d been out of my life for us to work through our differences before he died. While I don’t think I loved him, I respected the man he’d become. I don’t want that with my daughter. I’ve missed too much as it is.”

“Yes, you have.” Aila agreed. “I’m still not sure how to introduce you to Sofie, but I think straightforward is probably best. She’s never been that curious about her father.” Aila ignored the raised eyebrow at her revelation. “But I think that’ll change when she’s older, so maybe it’s a good thing you’re here now. You can meet Sofie tomorrow if you’d like. She’s already in bed, or I’d say we could do it now.”

Momentarily stunned by the offer, Bishop shook his head. “Not on a school night.” He quickly went through his appointments in his head. “There’s nothing on my schedule that I can’t put off. It’s time for several of my hotels to get their annual review. While I don’t anticipate any real issues, my managers will appreciate the extra time preparing for my visit. If this happened a couple of weeks from now, it wouldn’t work.”

He’d be in Caracas discussing a business venture with a potential partner.

“Then it’s a date.” Aila nodded. “You’re meeting Sofie tomorrow after school. It works out perfectly. The office closes on Thursdays, so I’m free. Drop by around 3:30. We should be home by then, or is it better for you if we meet here?”

“Your place is fine.” Bishop sent a quick text. “I’ll need directions, but I’m sure I can find them.” Aila suspected he could already get to her place in his sleep. “I made backup plans in case something unexpected happened, so a new flight and transport aren’t an issue. I will need a ride back to my hotel tonight if that’s all right?”

“I can do that.” Aila agreed, realizing his business associate had dropped him off at the restaurant after their meeting. “I’m assuming you booked a room at your usual place.”

“I did.” Bishop agreed. “I just sent a text that I’d arrive tonight.” He nodded. “Sherry confirmed my room is ready, and my car is reserved.”

“I won’t try to figure any of that out.” She honestly didn’t care about his arrangement to have a room and car waiting when needed. It was none of her business beyond proving his devotion to Sofie. “I am going to hold you to being on time. I don’t want to deal with Sofie if you’re late. She’ll be fit to be tied until she meets you without adding fuel to the fire.”

Smiling at her slight tirade, Bishop was mildly surprised by Aila’s take-charge attitude where her child was concerned. Not that he thought it was a bad thing. Considering Sofie’s biological parents, he was sure that attitude came in handy. She was likely a handful sometimes. She wouldn’t be his child if she weren’t. If he doubted that, which he didn’t, the paternity test his attorney had in her possession laid any questions to rest.

“I won’t be late,” Bishop promised. “I’ll probably be early.”

He’d learned early on that being perceived as already waiting when others arrived for a meeting usually played in his favor. Not only did it play into his reputation of being ten steps ahead of the competition, but it also signaled he was well-prepared and ready for action. While more bluff than fact in the beginning, that couldn’t be said today. He said what he meant and meant what he said. No one doubted that anymore.

“That’s okay, too.” Aila nodded as she took a sip of water, wishing she could steal another sip of Bishop’s wine. “If we’re not there, we won’t be long.”

“Here.” Bishop slid his glass in her direction, deciding one more sip or two didn’t matter, considering they’d been sharing his wine without Aila consciously realizing it. “I think we’re both wound up. I haven’t been this unsettled since my first hostile takeover.”

“I know what you mean.” Aila agreed. “I can’t tell you how I’m feeling right now. I never thought Sofie would meet her father. Now that she is, I don’t know how she’ll act. The thought is scary. That kid has a mind of her own.”

“You don’t expect anything different considering who her parents are, do you?” Bishop looked her in the eyes. “Sofie can’t help but be a mix of all of us.”

That was one of the reasons he couldn’t wait to meet her. He was curious to see if there was anything of Abby or himself in there somewhere. While it didn’t matter, he would love her no matter what; it would be nice to see a glimmer of his best friend in their daughter. Something told him that Sofie would like that as well.

“I never thought about it that way,” Aila admitted. “You’re right. Since I knew Abby, I can see shades of her mother in Sofie’s mannerisms, and I certainly see myself in her attitudes. Now that we’ve met, I see you in the little quirks so uniquely Sofie.”

“Like what? Bishop asked. “How is Sofie like each of us?”

Whether she realized it or not, her answers would reveal a great deal about how Aila perceived herself.

“She loves school and learning.” That was what he expected to hear. “She’s very bright, which she gets from all three of us. She’s precocious, outgoing, and artistic, which she gets from Abby. She’s also analytical and deliberate about important things. She gets those traits from you. I’m just the force in the background doing my best to keep the little bundle of energy happy, grounded, and safe. From what I can see, she’s a well-rounded child who inherited the best of both her parents with little of the bad. That could all change when she hits her teens. We’ll have to wait and see.”

“She sounds like a remarkable little girl.” Bishop motioned for the check. “I’m looking forward to meeting her.”

For a man who had never had any interest in children, he felt differently now. Maybe it was because Sofie reminded him of himself at a similar age. Or, more likely, it was because that little girl was his.

“She’s looking forward to meeting you.” Aila watched him settle the bill. They’d had that discussion long ago, and she’d lost. Since Bishop requested their meetings initially, she was his guest, and that was the end of the story. “Or she will be once I tell her you’re coming, which I doubt I’ll do until I pick her up from school. She’ll only bounce off the walls all day if I tell her before then. I don’t want to put her teachers and classmates through Sofie doing her best impression of a Mexican jumping bean all day.”

“Then let’s keep it a surprise until the appropriate time.” Bishop pulled Aila’s chair out for her. “I’ll leave the when up to you.”

“Thanks.” Aila grabbed her purse from the back of the chair. “While I know you have a regular, I don’t know which hotel you book. You never told me.”

Bishop named the nicest hotel near the airport as he followed her into the parking lot. Sliding into the passenger seat of her serviceable SUV, he watched Aila fasten her seat belt. He felt unusually disappointed that their evening was ending so soon. He would have preferred spending more time getting to know her better. Strangely enough, not wanting their evening to end was becoming a common thread in his life the longer they spent together. It was also a desire he’d never experienced with his female companions. It was unusual for him to feel that way about anyone. He needed to ponder that, and he would. Later. When he had the time.

Right now, he had a more important consideration on his mind.

CHAPTER FIVE

Staring at her reflection in passing, Aila realized she’d looked in the mirror more often over the past few weeks than in the last few years. She’d always been a wash-and-wear kind of girl. If she was clean, neat, and professional, she was done. Unfortunately, she didn’t feel that way anymore. There was something about dealing with Bishop that made her crazy. Made her feel like she had to measure up to some imaginary standard she couldn’t define.

Deciding that she’d do, Aila chastised herself for even thinking about her appearance when she had more important things to consider. Try her daughter meeting her father for the first time in less than half an hour. Compared with that, Bishop wouldn’t care less that she was wearing comfy jeans and a T-shirt. He’d probably roll his eyes at the glittery tongue-in-cheek female power slogan emblazoned across her chest if anything. But she doubted he’d even do that.

He’d have more immediate things on his mind, like what to say to his chirpy daughter. “Hi.” would be fine. While she knew the actual encounter would be okay, the aftermath worried her. For all she knew, Bishop might take one look at Sofie and decide to take her daughter from her. Right then and there. On the spot. Why wouldn’t he? She was a bright, beautiful, affectionate child any parent would love to claim.

Walking into the den, she stared at her daughter drawing her newest masterpiece. If she didn’t miss her guess, Sofie’s picture contained the two things she wanted most. Her father and the elusive puppy she didn’t know she was getting for her next birthday. Well, she’d get the pup if her mom had anything to say about it. If Bishop were in charge, who knew? She’d plead her case anyway. Her daughter had worked hard over the last year to prove she was responsible enough to have a four-legged friend.

Smoothing sweaty palms over her jeans, Aila closed her eyes and prayed fervently that she was doing the right thing. The stress was eating her alive. She’d been second-guessing herself all morning. She wasn’t sure this encounter was the right thing to do. But the alternative wasn’t any better. Besides, it wasn’t like she could keep Bishop from his daughter. She’d lose Sofie if she tried.

However, she could have delayed the meeting if she wanted. Bishop wouldn’t have balked if she’d asked for more time to prepare for such a life-changing moment. He wouldn’t like it. However, he would have given her as much time as she needed. But that wasn’t fair either. Not when she didn’t have a legitimate reason for requesting her secret hopes and fears.

“Sofie, let me take one last look at you.” Aila straightened the bow in her daughter’s hair. “I hope your dad gets here before you’re a total mess.”

Normally, she didn’t care if Sofie stayed pristine and picture-perfect. She was an active child, so a bow askew and a smudge here and there were expected. But this was her father’s first sight of her in the flesh. As hard as it was to imagine, Aila wanted her daughter to have every hair in place. She had to make a favorable impression for both of their sakes.

“I’m always a mess.” Sofie danced around the room before she plopped back on the floor in front of her sketch pad. “You know that.”

She did, and it was normally okay. She usually had that whole let a kid be a kid attitude. Today was different. Sofie might not know it, but she did. This was that make-it-or-break-it moment where she proved she was an exemplary mother. One who deserved to keep Sofie in her care. However, it was to Aila’s credit that her daughter was oblivious to what was really at stake. That she’d managed to shield herself from the truth of her father’s visit.

As far as Soph was concerned, meeting her dad wasn’t anything extraordinary. It was just another new experience to add to all the new experiences she had every day. Looking up at the sound of heavy footsteps on her porch, Aila made her way toward the foyer. Waiting for the doorbell to ring, she peered through the peephole, not surprised that Bishop was early.

“Hi.” Aila opened the door and welcomed him into her renovated 1920s bungalow. “Sofie’s in the den coloring.”

“Is she now?” Bishop filled the small space without the massive stuffed rabbit in his arms. “I brought her a present.”

He’d brought them both gifts if the huge bouquet of Dinner Plate Dahlias was any sign.

“You brought a bribe,” Aila smirked at him as she took the bouquet from him. “That wasn’t necessary.” She nodded towards the rabbit that was every bit as large as Sofie. “All she wants is you.”

“She doesn’t know me.” Bishop glanced in the direction of the den. “There’s no guarantee this will go well.”

“Sure, there is,” Aila reassured him, surprised the man was this nervous about meeting his only child. “Sofie’s a little girl. She doesn’t have any of the resentment or prejudices adults have. She’s ready to welcome you with open arms. Besides, she knows you didn’t know about her, so she’s happy you want to meet her now that you do.”

Absorbing her words, Bishop wasn’t sure it was that simple. He thought Aila was likely putting a pleasant spin on something that wouldn’t go nearly as smoothly as they hoped. Thinking back to himself at Sofie’s age, he wasn’t sure he would have embraced his father with open arms under similar circumstances. He was sure he wouldn’t have.

“I hope you’re right.” Brushing aside her thanks for the flowers, Bishop followed Aila into her sunny kitchen, where he watched her arrange the massive bouquet in a large vase she pulled from under her counter. “You have a lovely home. It’s very welcoming.”

Just the kind of place he’d hoped his daughter lived in.

“Thanks.” Aila washed her hands before turning back to her guest. “We like it.”

“I can understand why.” Bishop studied the room, deciding he liked the warm, lived-in atmosphere far better than his sterile, spotless suite in New York City. The vivid colors and period tiles made for a homey feel that he appreciated. “It’s a nice place and a perfect size for the two of you.”

“While you aren’t saying anything, I know you’re wondering why your daughter’s still in there and we’re in here.” Aila nodded in the direction of the den. “Hear that soft tapping noise? That’s Sofie telling me she’s ready for the big reveal. She’s finally finished the picture she was drawing, and she’s ready to present it to you. You should also know that Sofie doesn’t draw pictures for just anyone. Only the special people in her life, so I’d say you have nothing to worry about.”

“Is that right?” Bishop questioned. “Then maybe I should see this masterpiece. It sounds special.”

“It is,” Aila reassured him. “Just the kind you want hanging on your refrigerator door.”

“I’ll take that under advisement.” Bishop decided it was time to buy a pack of those tacky souvenir magnets from the hotel gift shop when he returned home. Somehow, they’d grown infinitely less cheesy over the past five minutes. “Right now, I want to meet my daughter.”

“Then follow me.” Aila led the way into her den with Bishop in tow. “Sofie, come meet your dad.” Aila watched Sofie rise to her feet under the watchful eye of her father. “Bishop, this is Sofie.”

Watching her daughter and her father staring at each other, Aila wasn’t expecting Bishop to suddenly drop to his knees and hold his arms out. She was equally surprised when Sofie ran into them without hesitating. While she wasn’t sure what to expect when they finally met, it wasn’t this. They acted like they already knew each other. Maybe they did on some biological level she didn’t fully understand. Whatever her thoughts, things were already getting more complicated than she’d anticipated.

Choosing to reserve further judgment for the moment, Aila stepped back to watch the picture unfolding before her. Just as she’d thought, Sofie was ready to accept Bishop unconditionally. She’d never had a father; she wanted one, and this one seemed better than most.

Added to that, she trusted her mother not to let anyone into her life who wouldn’t love her and keep her safe. Aila was determined to keep that promise. She had to make sure she and Bishop were on the same page before any of this went one step further. However, that could wait until later. Right now, she’d let them enjoy the moment.

“I brought you a present.” Disentangling from his daughter, Bishop rose to his feet without letting go of Sofie’s hand. “Your Mom said it wasn’t necessary, but I think she’s wrong.” He led her into the kitchen. “What do you think?”

“I think she’s wrong, too,” Sofie announced as she hugged the rabbit, almost bigger than she was. “Mr. Wiggles is way cool, and he matches my room.”

“Then I guess it was meant to be.” Bishop glanced in Aila’s direction before promptly ignoring her. “What do you say to putting him somewhere safe?”

Mr. Wiggles was much too big for any of them to carry around for long.

“That sounds like a good idea.” Aila agreed. “Sofie, why don’t you show your dad your room while I get your snack?”

“Okay.” Sofie agreed. “Are we having a tea party?”

“We’ll see.” Aila teased, knowing her guest had no idea what he was in for. “Now get out of here.”

Watching them leave, Aila made a pot of tea and transferred the delicate homemade scones, sandwiches, and fancy cakes she’d made last night after Sofie went to bed from the storage container to the pretty serving tower she rarely used. Staring at her spread, she contemplated whether to load everything on a tray and carry it to Sofie’s room or torture Bishop here in the kitchen.

Deciding to preserve her sanity, she carried the treats to the table before walking down the hall toward Sofie’s room. Peeping around the corner, she was pleased to see Bishop sitting on the edge of her daughter’s canopy bed patiently acknowledging every one of the stuffed animals so earnestly paraded before him with his picture in hand. Deciding to put him out of his misery, Aila interrupted Sofie’s fun to announce that the tea party was ready. Watching her daughter tear off towards the kitchen, she waited for Bishop to join her in exiting the room.

“Tea party?” Bishop asked as he fell in step beside her. “You can’t be serious.”

“You have no idea,” Aila smirked, knowing she was going to enjoy every second of watching the huge man beside her sipping tea and nibbling minuscule finger sandwiches. “I hope you’re in the mood for little girl treats.”

“If it makes Sofie happy, I am.” While the words were right, his tone wasn’t quite as committed. “It sounds like you’re doing the real deal.”

“Close enough for a five-year-old.” Aila agreed with a smile. “But probably nothing like you’re used to.”

While she could have purchased a more traditional spread from the English tea house in the neighboring town, she didn’t. There would be time for clotted cream, lemon curd, and authentic British tea cakes when Sofie was older. Right now, preserving her sanity was the name of the game, and that meant a more kid-friendly menu that wouldn’t end up with sugary smears everywhere.

“Close enough for a five-year-old is good enough since the five-year-old is all that matters.” Bishop agreed. “It appears Sofie is ready to get this show on the road, so who’s going to pour? You or me?”

“You since the tea party is in your honor.” Aila nodded in the direction of the table. “I’ve got some work to do.”

“Aila, don’t.” Bishop put a restraining hand on her arm. “You should be part of this.”

“I don’t want to intrude.” She looked at the hand on her arm. “This is your time.”

“It’s our time.” Bishop reminded her. “Sofie’s your daughter, too. We should be bonding as a family.”

“If that’s what you want.” Aila burst out laughing as she watched her daughter dragging her newest stuffed pet across the floor. “I see you’re bringing Mr. Wiggles to afternoon tea.”

“You can’t be serious?” Bishop watched his daughter manhandle her rabbit into the fourth chair before taking her seat. “Is that normal?”

“For little girls, it is.” Aila patted his hand. “I can see that, for all your natural abilities, you’ve still got a lot to learn about daughters. Especially the precocious ones. Maybe it’s a good thing I’m joining you. Why don’t you take a seat? I’ll be there as soon as I grab a couple more cups.”

Walking over to the cabinet, Aila carefully removed two brightly colored pansy-shaped teacups and the matching saucers before carrying them over to the table. Placing one of the sets in front of the rabbit, she set the other at her place. Carefully filling their cups from her grandmother’s silver teapot, she offered their guest the tower of Sofie’s favorite teatime treats. Even though she’d said he was pouring, Aila decided to let Bishop off the hook. He already looked overwhelmed by the whole situation. The idea of adding to his trauma wasn’t quite as amusing as it once seemed.

Watching Bishop select a tiny pink flower-topped petit four almost too small for his fingers, followed by a dainty dill-topped cucumber sandwich, she was pleased when he then placed two of Sofie’s favorite yellow iced petit fours and a delicate egg salad sandwich on her plate. Smiling at him, Aila selected a chicken salad sandwich and a baby blue petit fours for herself. They could have the leftover scones for breakfast tomorrow. Right now, Sofie intended to show her daddy how tea parties were done, and her mommy intended to help her.

CHAPTER SIX

“Are you meeting Bishop again tonight?” Corey noted Aila’s vibrant crimson silk blouse and black dress slacks as she removed her lab coat. “Don’t try to deny it. That’s not your usual t-shirt and comfy pants.”

If she had any doubts, the pretty medium-high black strappy sandals her nurse practitioner slid into one foot at a time sealed the deal.

“Why would I deny it?” Aila played it cool, knowing her boss was goading her. “Bishop’s made up his mind about Sofie, and he wants to talk before he flies out in the morning.” She paused to choose her next words. “It must be serious since he’s going out of his way to meet face-to-face when he’s slammed with work. You know that I’ve barely spoken to him since he met Sofie a few weeks back. For a while there, I wasn’t sure she hadn’t scared him off. That tea party was something else.”

Corey rolled her eyes in a way that said she knew better. Aila may have taken a few compromising shots of him drinking tea and eating finger sandwiches with a little girl, but that wasn’t enough to make the man fall off the face of the earth. While Bishop may not have called her mother, Sofie was a different matter. Her daddy managed to call several times a week to talk to his daughter for a few minutes right before bed, come hell or high water. He’d also managed to email her little notes about his travels, complete with photos and humorous sketches, every couple of days. From what everyone could see, Bishop was taking his fatherly role quite seriously. He wasn’t about to let his daughter think she took second place in his life now that they’d finally met.

Aila agreed with Corey’s assessment. Bishop might not be able to be with his daughter in person, but he was making it clear to Sofie and everyone else that she was constantly in his thoughts. She wasn’t sure she liked that.

Yes, their meeting had gone better than expected. Not only had Bishop suffered through the tea party, but he also spent the rest of the day with them. He’d even taken them out to a local kid’s spot for dinner and helped her tuck Sofie into bed that night. To make matters worse, Bishop not only agreed to let her have a puppy when her mom gave the word, but he’d also promised to get the rescue pup of her dreams.

While that was all nice in the short run, the fact that Bishop fell so quickly for Sofie’s charms didn’t sit well with Aila. It put her on edge more than anything could. She dreaded tonight with all her heart. She dreaded whatever Bishop had to say. It couldn’t be good. Not with the sneaky way he managed this.

She hadn’t even known he was coming to town. Not until he’d called her early this morning while she was dressing for work. He’d demanded they meet tonight in a tone he’d never used before. One that set her teeth on edge. So, no, she wouldn’t say tonight was in her favor. Not from what she could see.

It didn’t matter that the meeting was convenient for Bishop. That he was already passing through, whatever that meant. Nobody passed through Taylorsville or any of the neighboring towns intentionally. Not unless they were passing through the International Airport thirty miles away on a connecting flight, which was probably what he meant. She didn’t care about specifics. She did care what he was up to where Sofie was concerned.

“Yet, he’s stayed in regular contact with your daughter,” Corey said what she was thinking. “You’re right. He’s got it bad.”

“Do you blame him?” Aila asked. “Sofie’s adorable, and it has nothing to do with me. That child has never met anyone she didn’t like, and she already loves her father.”

Hopefully, she’d outgrow that too-trusting bent with age. Maybe she wouldn’t. Who knew? She’d worry about that later. From what she’d seen so far, all she could hold against Bishop was the very real threat he could take her daughter from her. Other than that, she was convinced Sofie’s affections weren’t misplaced. From all indications, Bishop was a good man.

“It’s clear he loves her, too.” Corey gently reminded her. “Maybe things aren’t what you think. I can’t imagine anything Bishop would gain by taking Sofie from you. Nothing except alienating her from him. I don’t think he’s that stupid. She’d turn against him if he tried.”

“I hope you’re right.” Aila shrugged her purse strap higher on her shoulder. “I have to get a move on, or I’ll be late.”

“I’ll see you on Friday.” Corey watched her head for the door. “You can update me then.”

Rolling her eyes, Aila waved as she closed the door behind her. God save her from nosy bosses. Corey was worse than an overprotective mother hen wanting all the details for everything. She’d had to describe that stinking tea party in minute detail before the woman would leave her alone about it. She had a feeling Friday wouldn’t be any different. She’d want every detail of her visit with Bishop down to what kind of shoes he was wearing. Pulling out of the office parking lot, she hoped she had something interesting to tell her.

Getting lost in her hopes and fears, Aila was surprised to find herself entering the hotel parking garage long before she expected to be there. She’d been too preoccupied praying for good news to notice the passing landscape. Finding an open space not too far from the entrance, she killed the engine and exited her car. Entering the hotel, she took a few seconds to get her bearings and locate where she needed to go.

From what Bishop told her this morning, he was on the top floor in Room 615. All she had to do was stop by the front desk, flash her driver’s license, and collect the key card for the private elevator exactly as she was doing. Watching the elevator doors close behind her, Aila was glad she was alone in the car. She needed those couple of extra minutes to take a few deep breaths and collect her emotions. She was clueless about what her child’s father was up to.

Exiting the elevator, Aila followed the signs to the proper room. Knocking on the door, she knew what she would find inside. An ordinary hotel suite that, while top-of-the-line for the area, was still far below Bishop’s usual standards. However, for what it was worth, the place was adequate for his needs and close to the I.A., which Taylorsville wasn’t. It was also the same hotel he’d stayed in on his last visit a few weeks back when he’d finally met Sofie. That he was staying here yet again was a mark in the establishment’s favor.

While the location may have influenced Bishop’s choice, she seriously doubted that it was the real reason for his change of accommodation. It probably had more to do with whatever he wanted to discuss with her and the fact that he wanted to do it in private. Unfortunately, his repeated presence in Taylorsville had attracted the kind of media attention neither of them wanted. Some nosey reporter smelled a story and started showing up everywhere they went.

Considering the woman was a well-known television personality in the community, she should have known Aila would eventually figure out what she was up to. Taylorsville wasn’t that large. Truthfully, Arabella McAfee’s persistence was likely the game-changer leading to their change of venue. That and Bishop’s need to fly to London as soon as they were done.

Seeing the door open, Aila crossed the threshold, mildly surprised to see Bishop in casual slacks and a button-down with rolled-up sleeves. From his disheveled appearance, it was clear he’d spent the better part of the day working on goodness knows what. Then again, she supposed the open laptop and papers spread about the desk betrayed that reality even more than rumpled clothing and tousled hair. But what did she know? It wasn’t like she’d been around the man in truly intimate settings before.

“Forgive me, I lost track of time.” Closing the laptop, he arranged his papers in a neat stack. “I hope your drive over was pleasant.”

“Not too bad,” Aila admitted. “While traffic was heavy, I can’t complain.”

“I’m glad.” Nolan’s response was automatic, as though he wasn’t truly listening to her. “Again, I apologize for all of this.” His gesture encompassed the room. “I’m working on a deal with a hotelier in Tokyo, or I’m trying to. We’re still feeling each other out, so it’s slow going. One wrong move or word could cost the deal. I can’t let that happen. Mr. Kobayashi has six well-maintained boutique hotels spread throughout the Islands with a healthy profit margin. From what I can see, that acquisition would be the perfect way to ease my way into Asia proper.”

Leaning on the desk, he fixed her with an open gaze.

“Unfortunately for Kobayashi, he’s caught between a rock and a hard place. He lost his wife in an accident a decade ago, and he recently remarried a much younger writer he met on a book tour. He wants to retire to spend more time with his bride, but none of his children wants the business. Not unexpectedly, he’s reluctant to surrender his life’s work to a stranger.”

“That’s understandable, isn’t it?” Aila studied the small photograph of the three of them at the kiddie restaurant on his makeshift desk. “I think I’d feel the same way.”

“It is.” Bishop agreed. “It may even play in my favor. I’m still at the stage where I’m trying to convince him I’m not interested in making significant changes to his legacy, and I’m not.” He was a firm believer in not fixing what wasn’t broken, and there was nothing wrong with the Ume hotels. “If I can get him to believe the character of his hotels won’t change, it’s a done deal. Right now, I’m still a long way from reaching that point. I think we’ll have to meet in person for real trust to happen.”

“It sounds like you have your job cut out for you.” Aila settled into a comfortable chair. “However, if anyone can win his trust, you can.”

“Yes, I can, but I didn’t bring you here to discuss hotels.” Bishop sat down opposite her. “I have something entirely different in mind.”

“I never thought you did.” Aila fidgeted uncomfortably with the hem of her top. “I know this is about Sofie.” Her gaze bore into his. “And I suspect you’ve finally decided where she fits in your life.”

“I have,” Bishop stated firmly. “I want Sofie with me.”

“You what?” Aila’s stomach dropped to her feet. “I hope you’re not saying what I think you are.”

“I told you the first time we met that I didn’t think taking Sofie from you was the answer.” Nolan continued. “I…”

“But you didn’t rule it out either.” Aila interrupted. “You said you didn’t think that was the solution.”

“I still don’t.” Bishop took command of the conversation again. “Aila, I’m not taking Sofie from you. I’m not sure the court would grant me custody if I tried. The fact that I never attempted to see her or provide for her before now won’t play in my favor.”

“But the fact you didn’t know she existed will,” Aila admitted. “I’ve talked to several attorneys since you came to town.”

“Which doesn’t surprise me.” Bishop rubbed her hand. “It wasn’t necessary. I think I’ve come up with a better solution for all of us.”

“Right.” Aila snorted rudely. “I’m all ears.”

“Marry me,” Bishop stated simply. “Sophie needs her mother, and I don’t need some hired stranger more interested in my bank accounts than my child raising my daughter. It’s the best solution for all of us.”

Ignoring the disbelief on her face, Bishop waited patiently while Aila processed his words. It was the least he could do. While she probably viewed his proposal as coming suddenly from left field, nothing could be farther from the truth. He’d toyed with the idea since shortly after they met the first time.

A few weeks of interviewing potential nannies had cemented his plan. Even the exceptional candidates his assistant lined up were more interested in having his name on their resumes than they were in Sofie. As hard as they tried to hide it, their true motivation shone through. All in all, Connie’s hard work aside, the search was a dismal experience from start to finish.

As painful as it was for an overachiever like him to admit, he’d finally met his match. He hadn’t known finding an appropriate caretaker for his child would be so difficult. Quite honestly, none of the older, responsible men and women could touch Aila’s warmth and devotion. The one or two younger candidates weren’t any better. The majority had dollar signs in their eyes when they realized who their prospective employer would be. The last thing he needed was some sweet young thing trying to use his only child to worm her way into his life and his bed. Considering the way things were going, he’d quickly realized a more palatable solution was staring him right in the face.

“Do what?” Aila repeated numbly. “I don’t think I heard you right.”

“I think you did.” Bishop ignored her frightened rabbit look. “I said, marry me.”

CHAPTER SEVEN

Placing the small plate of food in front of her daughter, Aila pondered the best way to approach her child about marrying Bishop. She didn’t want to get into the technicalities. As bright as Sofie was, she wouldn’t understand all that. However, she couldn’t sugarcoat the truth either. She had to be straight with her child. Let her know there would be a lot of changes if she accepted her father’s offer. Setting their plates on the table, she sat in her chair and faced her daughter.

“How would you feel if your dad came to live with us?” Aila watched her daughter’s face. “Would you like that?”

“I guess.” Sofie took a bite of homemade macaroni and cheese before giving her thoughtful answer. “I like my dad. He gave me Mr. Wiggles. He’s nice and he plays with me.”

Aila giggled at Sofie’s remark. If she hadn’t witnessed that earth-shattering event for herself, she wouldn’t believe it. Somehow, the sight of the great Nolan Bishop flopped on the floor playing dolls with his daughter was so wrong. But he’d done it and, from the way things looked, he’d enjoyed every second of the doing. At that moment, Aila saw a side of the man she didn’t know existed. One she was glad to see. Bishop was a natural father.

Taking that into account, as much as she wanted to dismiss his proposal out of hand, she knew she couldn’t. She’d already made the pros and cons list in her head. Who was she kidding? She’d written the list on paper. Again, as much as she hated to admit it, there was more to recommend taking Bishop’s offer than refusing it. As competent as she was, raising a child as bright and active as Sofie was difficult, and denying her the father so suddenly entering their lives was out of the question. She couldn’t do it. She didn’t have that right. She just wasn’t sure how far to let him in.

Her first marriage hadn’t been that great. Right. It was an unholy nightmare. She just didn’t know it. She’d believed everything was fine until the truth broke. Then she’d learned just how bad things were. How disgusting they’d always been. Was she ready to enter a similar situation? She didn’t think so.

Knowing Bishop had a girlfriend on the side didn’t make it better. It made it worse. Especially considering she and Bishop were open to exploring possibilities once they married. However, she didn’t have much of a choice if she wanted to do what was best for her daughter. She had to accept his terms and take her chances. Risk having her heart shattered all over again.

“Sofie, how would you feel about moving into a new house?” Aila asked. “You’d have to leave your friends here in the neighborhood.” Including her best friend. “You’d still go to the same school, but Sarah won’t be right across the street anymore.”

“That’s okay.” Sofie looked up from her dinner, not all that concerned about leaving Sarah behind. “We’d still have play days and sleepovers like we do now?”

“I’m sure you will.” Sofie was taking the whole idea better than she’d expected. “You just won’t be able to walk to her house. You’ll have to ride in a car since we’ll be moving across town.”

“With Daddy.” Sofie clarified. “In our new house.”

“Yes, with Daddy in our new house.” Aila felt a twinge of jealousy, realizing Bishop had charmed Sofie as much as she’d charmed him. “You won’t mind moving?”

“Nope.” Sofie laid her fork aside. “And Sarah won’t mind either.”

“Why is that?” Aila wasn’t sure she wanted to know. “I wouldn’t think either of you would be happy about being so far apart.”

“Because I’ll have a family like she does,” Sofie remarked as though it were the most obvious thing in the world. “She’ll be happy for me.”

Not sure whether to laugh or cry, Aila decided Sofie was probably right. Sarah would be happy for her. She was that kind of kid. She also knew she was done. Legitimate arguments aside, there was no way she wouldn’t marry Bishop and give Sofie the father she so desperately wanted. While she had doubts about exactly what would happen between them, she had none where Sofie was concerned. If there was one thing she knew, the man would make sure their daughter was happy, and that was worth any price.

“Then that’s what we’ll do.” Aila patted her daughter’s head. “We’ll go live with Daddy.”

Idly picking at her fish stick, Aila forced herself to eat, knowing she wasn’t tasting anything. As soon as she finished, she tucked the dishes in the dishwasher before turning to her daughter. She needed to get Sofie occupied so she’d have time to call Bishop. The last thing she needed was having to watch her every word when her thoughts weren’t that clear to start with.

“Did you finish your homework?” Aila asked as she did every evening. “Let me see.”

Watching Sofie get her folder from her backpack, Aila thought about how their lives would change. Given the disruption coming, she was grateful for the long-established structure that wouldn’t change. Her daughter needed that. Looking over the pages, she was amazed at how well Sofie was doing with her letters and coloring within the lines.

“This looks good.” Aila handed the folder back. “We’ll have to show your dad. He’ll be so proud of you. Now, I think it’s time to get ready for bed. Why don’t you get your pajamas while I run your water?”

Watching her daughter race down the hall, Aila entered the bathroom and started her tub. As much as she wanted to drag Sofie’s bath out, she couldn’t. Once she got her tadpole splashing, she had a telephone call to make. She’d asked Bishop to give her the weekend to think things through, and he’d done that. He hadn’t contacted her once, and she hadn’t contacted him. However, time was up. Now that she’d talked to Sofie, she couldn’t procrastinate.

“Hey, Kiddo, your tub’s ready.” Watching Sofie sink in the water, Aila decided she might as well get that phone call done while her daughter enjoyed her bath. “Why don’t you wash Cindy’s hair while I make a quick telephone call?”

Satisfied, Sofie was busily shampooing her doll’s long blonde hair. Aila walked into the kitchen to get her phone. Unfastening her cell from the charger, she hit the auto dial and brought the phone to her ear. Heading back towards the bathroom, she listened to the persistent rings as she resisted ending the telephone call that would alter the course of her life. About the time she was ready to hang up, Bishop’s sleepy voice came across the line. Even half out of it, he sounded commanding and in control. Closing her eyes, Aila wasn’t sure she was up to the challenge of marrying such a powerful man.

“Bishop, it’s Aila.” She spoke softly, hoping he’d hang up and end it all. “Sorry for waking you. I wanted to give you an answer.”

Hearing rustling on the other end, Aila knew he was getting out of bed. She wondered briefly if the man slept in pajamas, his underwear, or as naked as the day he was born. Somehow, she suspected he only wore pj’s if he had to. As confident as Bishop was in himself as a person, she couldn’t see him being less in the buff.

Phasing back to the conversation, she listened to Bishop tell her no apology was necessary. Although it was close to one a.m. where he was, he’d never told her he was making an unplanned detour to Lisbon to check out a famous hotel chain on the verge of going under. If all went well, he’d own a historic chain of high-end hotels in Portugal. He just didn’t know how many. The buyout was still in the discovery phase.

“I don’t know what to say.” Aila took a deep breath, wondering if she was ready to have her orderly life turned upside down by unexpected flights halfway across the world at the drop of a hat. “Except I hope everything works out the way you want it to.”

Bishop reassured her it would. He wasn’t enacting a hostile takeover; just a fair buyout based on present conditions and future projections. So far, things looked promising; he’d purchase all ten hotels, including the five in Spain. He already had men and women in place, ready to take over the day-to-day running of the operation to turn it around.

“As fascinating as I’m sure you find all this,” Bishop’s tone indicated he knew otherwise. “I’m more interested in hearing your answer.”

“I talked things over with Sofie, and she’s excited about us moving in with you.” Aila began. “So, yes, I’ll marry you. It’s the best solution for everyone.”

“It’s the right decision,” Nolan said quietly. “I wasn’t sure you’d take me up on my offer, so I’m glad you’ve put both of us out of our misery. I don’t know how long I’ll be tied up here. I’ll keep you updated as my schedule changes. As soon as I’m Stateside, we’ll make plans. I don’t want to drag things out too long. The sooner we’re married and settled, the better it’ll be for everyone. Especially for Sofie since she’s still in school.”

Nodding even though he couldn’t see her, Aila knew he was right. They had to make this whole getting married, moving into a new house, and transitioning to a new life as easy as possible for their daughter. As near perfect as she was, Sofie was an excitable child, and she’d had enough distractions in her life recently. Her schoolwork would be negatively impacted if she had much more.

“Since I can’t get away for a while, I’ll fly you up to New York for a few days when I get back.” Bishop continued ignoring her silence. “We can figure everything out then. I’m sure you can arrange for Sofie to stay with Sarah’s family for a few days.”

Aila rolled her eyes at the way Nolan assumed she’d fall in with his plans. Then again, she didn’t have a choice. Not unless she wanted the truth to get out before they were ready. As it was, she knew Bishop’s people had a spin ready for release at the appropriate time. While it wasn’t a lie, it wasn’t the complete truth either. But the manufactured fairy tale should pacify the media’s insatiable need to know. More importantly, the sanitized tales of Sofie’s conception and their whirlwind courtship would insulate their daughter from the hurtful truths of her birth for now. The future could take care of itself.

“I’m sure I can.” She conceded knowing Sofie could stay with Sarah indefinitely if she told Leon and Jessie she was flying to New York to visit her fiancée. “It won’t be as easy to get out of work. I need to give Corrie a few days’ notice to find a replacement to handle my cases.”

“You’ll have plenty of time to make the necessary arrangements,” Nolan reassured her. “Once I’m back in New York, I won’t have to leave the country for a few weeks. We’ll probably be married and settled by the time that happens again. It’ll make things a whole lot easier on everyone if we are.”

“It sounds like you plan on moving fast.” Aila tamped down on the panic, suddenly overriding reason. “I’m not sure I’m ready for that.”

“Can you think of any reason to drag things out?” Bishop kept his voice calm and reasonable. “The longer we take, the more time you’ll have to get nervous. I think we should get married as soon as possible. It’s easier and it gives the media less opportunity to discover our plans.”

“That last part changes everything.” Aila already hated the occasional intrusions into their life. “I don’t want the press involved in our wedding. Honestly, I’m hoping for a small, private affair.”

“I think that can be arranged.” Bishop agreed. “I can’t see us having more people than we can comfortably accommodate in our home at the ceremony. We can have a nice reception for a few hundred of my business associates later.”

Aila bit back the ‘Oh, God,’ threatening to pass her lips. She wasn’t ready to say I do again. She wasn’t ready for a reception with a few hundred people. She wasn’t ready for any of it. But she’d get through it one way or another. She was already committed to a course she couldn’t undo.

“Aila, breathe.” Bishop’s voice was tinged with laughter. “You’re hyperventilating.”

Closing her eyes, Aila thought, “Maybe I am,” before taking his advice.

“All of this is overwhelming.” She admitted. “I’ve gone from thinking I’d never get married again to agreeing to do just that in a matter of minutes.”

It had taken much longer than that, but reality didn’t matter. Not really and not right now. She felt like she was standing on the edge of an abyss about to step over.

“You aren’t the only one,” Bishop told her quietly. “I’ve gone from a lifetime of believing I’d never get married to knowing it was the right thing to do in a few short weeks. While I might not know exactly what you’re feeling, it’s close enough.”

“You’re probably right.” Aila agreed. “I should let you go back to sleep. You’re a busy man. You need your rest.”

“Never too busy for you,” Bishop spoke quietly. “Remember that.”

“I’ll try,” Aila said. “Now, I’ll let you go.”

“We’ll talk soon,” Bishop reassured her. “I’ll give you a call when I’m free.”

“I’ll be waiting.” Hearing his goodbyes and making her own, Aila was disappointed when they both hung up. “Sleep well.”

She spoke into the dead telephone, knowing he hadn’t heard her, but wanting to express the sentiment all the same. From the emptiness she was already feeling, it didn’t take a genius to know she was in too deep. Things would only get worse when they were finally living under the same roof. Her feelings could only grow. Burying her face in her hands, Aila decided she didn’t want to think about that. Nothing good would come of it.

CHAPTER EIGHT

True to his word, Bishop arranged for her visit while he was somewhere over the English Channel. Forget setting foot on actual soil. It wasn’t necessary. Not when he had a short layover in London before he flew home to New York. He could do what needed to be done from the air. Aila laughed softly. That was so Bishop. Full speed ahead through any deterrent. She’d known the dates of their visit with plenty of time to clear her schedule. Not only that, but she now stood outside his penthouse in disbelief that everything had come together so fast.

Sliding her key card in the reader, she pushed the door open and stepped inside the opulent hotel suite. The place was a dream come true. Picture-perfect modern Architectural Digest. While a nice place to visit, she didn’t want to live there. Watching Nolan’s driver carry her luggage into the guest bedroom, she couldn’t help thinking he’d done this before. Probably many times.

While she knew Nolan’s assistant stayed over at times and he had business guests on occasion, Aila wondered if Susan and her kind stayed over as well. Surprisingly, that thought didn’t sit well with her. She wasn’t going to ponder why. Bishop’s personal life was none of her business. Not until they were married.

“Your luggage is on the bed,” Bennett stated as he came out of the bedroom. “Mr. Bishop will meet you here around six. Your dinner reservation is for seven. If you need anything between now and then, here’s my card. Just give me a call and I’ll take care of it. If you want to go anywhere, do the same. Other than that, the rest of the afternoon is yours. The telephone is over there, and the food should be in the kitchen. If it isn’t, contact room service. They’ll take care of you.”

“Thank you for everything.” Aila appreciated Bennet’s warm welcome and quiet guidance in an unsettling situation. She was grateful he’d met her at the airport and been with her from the start. “I don’t think I’ll need anything, but I’ll call if I do.”

Watching the man head for the elevator, Aila closed the door before walking over to Bishop’s desk to dial a telephone number.

“Hey, Jess, I’m here.” Aila rolled her eyes at the excitement in the other woman’s voice. “It’s just like we thought. He lives in one of the penthouse suites. No, not the biggest one. The middle one. It’s as big as my house and twice as nice. No, I won’t go check out his bedroom. Yes, we’re engaged, but I won’t invade his personal space without his permission.”

Jessie was the only person who knew their relationship wasn’t as it seemed. That she hadn’t been swept off her feet by the dashing billionaire. That they were marrying largely for Sofie’s sake. However, even she didn’t know it was in name only. While Aila trusted her neighbor, no one was immune to accidental slip-ups.

“You’re so bad. That’s nobody’s business but his. Tell Sofie I’ll give her a call before dinner and let Corey know I made it. Now, I need to unpack. I don’t have much time before my date. We’ll talk later.”

Hanging up the phone, Aila couldn’t believe the things Jessie wanted to know. The woman was incorrigible. Oh, and she was nosey too. Shaking her head, she walked into the spare bedroom to unpack her bags. Stopping in the doorway, she admired the simple elegance of the brightly decorated room. Everything about the décor was welcoming much as Bishop’s staff had been. If the rest of his hotels were like this, no wonder his empire was thriving. He understood the hospitality industry inside and out.

Opening the closet doors, she stopped short, seeing an elegant red dress hanging in the otherwise empty space. Reading the attached note, she realized Nolan had bought it for her along with the coordinating shoes. All she had to do was call the dress shop downstairs if the sizes weren’t quite right and speak to Leisle. She’d correct any mistakes he’d made.

Removing the dress from the hanger, Aila decided to take care of business now so she could relax for a couple of hours. Pulling the dress over her head and sliding into the shoes, she walked around the room before stopping to survey her image in the mirror. She wouldn’t be calling Leisle any time soon. The dress hugged her every curve perfectly, and the discreetly bejeweled strappy sandals fit better than she expected. They were unbelievably comfortable, too.

Taking off her new garment and footwear, Aila shoved any question of how Bishop had known her size as far from her mind as she could. The more she thought about his worldliness, the more she second-guessed her decision to marry him in the first place. Deep inside, she knew she wasn’t cut out for the life she was embracing. She was just a small-town girl who’d never wanted more than to be the best mother and nurse practitioner she could be for as long as she could remember. No part of her ever aspired to marry a wealthy businessman and live among the rich and famous.

Unpacking her suitcase and her dress bag, Aila opened a dresser drawer to put her lingerie away and gasped. She’d better not be seeing what she thought she was. Either Bishop had plundered where he shouldn’t have on his only visit to her house, or Sofie had done it for him. The matching undergarments to that dress were hiding in that drawer, and they were the perfect size. As much as she hated the thought of the man invading her privacy, or having their daughter do it, she found the thought that he might be just that good at guessing her intimate sizes to be even more disturbing. Putting her underwear away, she closed the drawer and put her empty suitcases neatly in the bottom of the closet.

Padding back into the den, Aila opened the French Doors and walked onto the balcony. No wonder Bishop picked this suite over the others. The view over the city was perfect, even if she couldn’t identify the sights. Somehow, she didn’t think the scenery was quite as good from the other side. Feeling the warm sunshine on her skin, she closed her eyes for a moment, getting lost in the unfamiliar sounds rippling through the air around her. She had a feeling she’d come to know this place quite well before they were done.

Deciding she’d dallied long enough, Aila went back inside to pour a glass of water from the refrigerator. Carrying her glass into the bedroom, she suddenly realized how tired she was. She hadn’t slept well last night, and she’d been up early to get Sofie ready for school. To compound matters, her seatmate’s constant chatter ensured she didn’t get the nap she’d planned to take on her flight. Maybe the best thing she could do was take a quick shower and a nap, so she’d be fresh for tonight. Grabbing her pajamas, she headed for the bathroom to do just that. She had no idea what Bishop had up his sleeve.

###

Smacking the alarm with her usual vigor, Aila rolled out of bed only to realize she wasn’t in her bedroom at home. Oh, that was right, she was in one of Bishop’s bedrooms in New York, and he still wasn’t home. Walking into the bathroom, she splashed water on her face and applied her makeup. While she usually kept things neutral for work, that red dress required a brighter palette, or she’d look washed out. Fortunately, she’d had an inkling her “date” might want to show her the town, so she’d come prepared. Her eyeliner was a little heavier than she usually wore, and her lips and cheeks were a deeper red, which should go nicely with her dress.

Staring at her reflection, Aila decided she would do. Now, she just had to comb her hair and get dressed. Considering she’d rolled her straight locks on those spongy pink rollers before she lay down, her hair should be taken care of. The only problem she could see was that she didn’t have any jewelry to go with what she was wearing. Again, she didn’t usually wear much because of work. Just a simple gold chain and earrings. Once upon a time, she’d supplemented that with her wedding band and engagement ring. Now, her hands were bare. Oh, well, it was too late to worry about jewelry. Gently combing loose waves in place, Aila sprayed her hair and headed for the bedroom.

Sliding into her new undergarments, she stepped into the dress and wiggled it into place. Fortunately, the zipper only went halfway up her back, so she wouldn’t have to ask Bishop for help. Sliding into her shoes, she walked into the den just in time to hear a key card slide into the lock. Watching her host walk through the door, she wasn’t all that surprised when he walked over to drop a kiss on her cheek.

“You look beautiful.” He absently patted her hand as he headed towards the closed door she assumed led to his bedroom. “Give me twenty minutes to shower and change, then we’ll go. In the meantime, make yourself at home.”

Walking around the den, Aila critically studied her appearance. The silk dress Bishop selected was expensive and sensually body-skimming. While the neckline was a modest V in the front, the mirroring V on the back was more daring, but nothing that made her uncomfortable. Her makeup was becoming, and her hair had cooperated for once, so, yes, maybe Nolan was right. She did look prettier than usual.

Maybe that had something to do with the heightened color of her cheeks or the general anticipation dancing in her eyes. Whatever happened, she intended to enjoy herself. She’d never been to New York, so that was exciting in itself. Especially considering Bishop was taking her to a show and to the museums she’d always dreamed of visiting over the rest of her stay.

“I meant what I said.” Bishop emerged behind her. “You’re stunning, or you will be in a few moments. My friend owns the custom jewelry store in the lobby. He selected these pieces to go with your dress. While we don’t own the suite, we do have use of the jewelry for the evening.”

Reaching over her head, Bishop lowered a delicate necklace of intertwined diamond and ruby flowers around her neck and fastened the clasp. Fastening the bracelet around her wrist, he held out the matching drop earrings for her to hook in place.

“We can purchase the set if you’d like,” Bishop told her quietly. “Call it an engagement present.”

As crazy as it seemed to him, his fiancée seemed uncomfortable with the idea of him spending that kind of money on her. He needed to quickly remedy that.

“Aila, there are times when you’ll need expensive jewelry, and my suggestion isn’t as over the top as it seems.” Bishop slipped the velvet box into a drawer. “I believed in Jerry so much when he first started that I gave him premium space in this hotel for a year in return for a small percentage of his business. I even paid for the build-out. He didn’t let me down. He’s highly successful, and we can have anything we want at cost. Just let me know what you decide, and we’ll go from there. If you don’t want this set, he has other pieces that are perfect for you.”

Looking in the mirror over the buffet, Aila had to agree with his assessment. The delicate pieces added the finishing touch to her look. As much as she wanted to tell him not to buy her anything, she had a feeling it was already done. Bishop hadn’t mentioned those custom pieces for the fun of it. He was telling her, once they were married, she needed to look the part, and having jewelry like this was a given.

“I love the set, but I’d like to see his other work.” Aila fingered the necklace admiring the intricate design. “There might be something that would go with everything that would suit me better.”

“Then we’ll buy that as well. The rubies look good on you.” Gazing into his eyes, Bishop had the same determination he’d had the first night they met. From what she’d learned of the man, she could keep her protests to herself. The jewelry was a done deal. “We need to leave now, or we’ll be late.”

Linking his fingers through hers, Bishop led Aila from the suite towards the private elevator. Taking the car down to the first floor, he studied her in the soft light. From her posture, he knew she wasn’t pleased with his high-handedness where the jewelry was concerned. She didn’t fully understand the game yet. He’d have to teach her, and the next few days were as good a time as any to start. From the look on her face, the pieces were already starting to fall into place.

Pieces that dictated truths like, while it was fine to be herself day-to-day, there were certain times when she needed to look like the wife of a wealthy, powerful man. That meant wearing designer clothing and expensive jewelry she’d normally balk at. She’d have to get used to this and bend a little. If she didn’t, they were going to get busted before their marriage even started. Turning his attention back to his fiancée, Bishop escorted her through the door towards the car waiting at the curb.

CHAPTER NINE

“Bennett’s driving us this evening.” Bishop volunteered as they pulled from the curb. “I want to concentrate on you instead of traffic.”

“I see.” She didn’t, not really, but she’d accept him at his word. “Where does Bennett go while we’re busy?”

She hoped not to some dark parking garage while they enjoyed a gourmet meal. Somehow, that didn’t seem right. No more acceptable to her than having a car and driver in the first place. Even if the car was a regular sedan, and not one of the more pretentious models she knew Bishop had at his disposal. Considering he owned a luxury car and limousine rental company, he could have pulled out the big guns. Thankfully, he hadn’t.

But he had enlisted Bennett’s services for the evening, contrary to what he usually did. She knew for a fact Bishop drove himself when he couldn’t walk. What set tonight apart even more than heavy traffic was probably the fact that good parking spaces were notoriously scarce in this part of town at this time of night. When she thought about it like that, a driver made perfect sense for a man of Bishop’s means.

Watching Bennett walk around to open her door, Aila exited the car and waited for Bishop to join her. Allowing his fingers to link through hers yet again, she resisted the urge to pull her hand free. That wouldn’t go over well with the not-so-casual audience observing their every move through the restaurant window. Choosing to thank Bennett and let Bishop lead her through the front door, Aila ignored the curious looks cast their way in favor of checking out her surroundings.

Taking in the comfortably elegant ambiance, Aila realized she’d never been in a place quite like this. Sure, she’d been to nice restaurants before. None of them quite measured up to where she was now. Watching the hostess grab their menus, Aila was vaguely surprised when she led them into a small, private dining room she didn’t know existed. Taking the seat Nolan pulled out for her, she watched him sink into the chair beside her.

“I thought you’d be more comfortable in here than out there being gawked at,” Bishop answered the question she hadn’t asked before flipping through the massive wine list to the page he wanted. “I hope you don’t mind me ordering for us. This is a particularly good champagne, I think you’ll enjoy. Julie already knows to send the best wine to accompany our meal.”

“Julie?” Aila glanced at the menu, already overwhelmed by the choices. “I’m assuming she’s the Sommelier?”

“You assume right.” Nolan agreed. “She’s young, but she’s already one of the best in the business. She’s also Bennett’s daughter. So, I imagine he’ll be having dinner at the bar and visiting with her while we’re in here.”

Aila nodded, pleased he’d finally answered the question she thought he’d ignored.

“This menu is a lot to take in.” She closed the cover. “Do you have any suggestions?”

“While I think you’d enjoy anything on the menu, I’m going to suggest the Chateaubriand in a brandy peppercorn sauce.” She’d appreciate the rich flavors. “You can go with the standard baked potato and baby patty pan medley or something more exotic if you’d like.”

“The standard is fine.” Aila wasn’t sure she liked the fact that Nolan appeared to know her so well already. “I’ll try something more exotic on the next visit.”

“Why? Just have what you want now.” Bishop dismissed her remark as he took a sip of champagne. “That’s one of the perks of owning the place. You can have anything you want when you want it, how you want it. It doesn’t have to be on the menu.”

Choking on her champagne, Aila gave him a look, saying he could have shared that beforehand. No wonder he was so familiar with the menu. Dabbing delicately at her lips, she savored her second sip of wine and agreed this was a mighty fine champagne.

“Why didn’t you tell me you owned Serenade?” Aila watched the server place a bowl of steamed mussels in front of each of them, along with a basket of freshly baked bread and herbed butter. “That explains why we can see into the dining room and why I suspect they can’t see back.”

“You’re exactly right.” Bishop conceded. “I should have told you. I not only own this restaurant, but the hotel we’re staying in, although I suspect you’ve already figured that out.”

“The hotel was a no-brainer.” Aila agreed as she took a bite of mussel and hummed under her breath. The seafood was perfectly seasoned and melted in her mouth. If this were a preview of the meal to come, she would be in gastronomic heaven. “I can’t see you paying the competition to live in one of their best suites, nor can I see you paying for a swanky place in the city when you own hotels. Having a suite in your hotel is the best of both worlds.”

“You see it right.” Nolan watched her nibble at a piece of bread. “Although I won’t be living there much longer, I will keep the suite for visits. My main residence will be with you and Sofie in North Carolina as we’ve already decided.”

While he owned several other properties around the world, he didn’t think now was the time to discuss them. Aila already knew about the 800-year-old manor house his grandfather had left him on Mull. That was where he’d learned about Sofie’s existence. However, she didn’t know about his other properties, and he wasn’t going to inform her anytime soon. She’d freak out to learn he owned an expensive townhouse in Sydney, thanks to his father, a Renaissance palazzo in Italy, and a Medieval manor complete with centuries worth of priceless furnishings situated on several hundred pristine acres he’d purchased at auction years ago in Cornwall.

“Speaking of main residences, I looked at the houses you sent me.” Aila pulled her phone from her purse. “These are the three that best meet your requirements. I checked them all out and they’re nice houses. The pictures aren’t hiding anything undesirable. Just let me know when you’ll be in town again, and I’ll schedule appointments to see them.”

“Which one do you like best?” Nolan thumbed through the photographs on the screen. “They’re all acceptable.”

They were. Acceptable. Although nothing like what his acquaintances would expect him to build or buy. However, all three houses were clearly on the upper end of what the small town had to offer and what the housing market would support. Taking that into account, his friends and acquaintances would realize he’d used common sense over ego. There was no reason to sink money into building a lavish estate that would alienate his neighbors or take a hit if things went south with Aila. He’d much rather lie low and be as close to an average Joe as possible than be the hot-shot international businessman he was in most circles.

“Honestly?” Aila watched their server clear away their champagne glasses and empty plates. “I like this one. It’s the oldest at ten years old, but it’s been recently updated, so everything is fresh and move-in ready. It’s on three acres instead of one, and the pool is a nice size. Oh, and it has that professional kitchen you mentioned. Of the three, I think this house best meets all of our needs.”

Watching her eyes light up, Nolan realized that, while the house wasn’t the most expensive of the three due to being the oldest, it was the one Aila wanted. Studying the photographs and description, he decided his fiancée had good taste and an eye for quality over show. No expense had been spared on the interior. The ceilings were high and beautifully trimmed with crown molding. The countertops and tiling were marble and granite, while the cabinets were solid wood. The house was the largest in terms of actual living space, which he appreciated. He had a feeling they’d be utilizing every square inch before they were done. As for the pool, it was surprisingly large with a diving board for him and a slide for Sofie. Aila had done an excellent job in selecting the best property to meet their needs.

“Have the Realtor draw up the contract and email it to me.” Nolan watched Julie pour red wine and offer it to him. “Once I look over it, I’ll arrange for the necessary inspections, and we’ll take it from there.”

“You’re going to buy a house sight unseen?” Aila discreetly breathed in the aroma of perfectly cooked steak as Nolan motioned for the Sommelier to fill their glasses. “On my recommendation?”

“It’s the house you want.” Nolan took a bite of steak. “I like everything I saw in your pictures, so, yes, I’m going to buy the house on your recommendation, provided the inspections work out.” Seeing the shock on her face, he ignored it as he continued with what he was saying. “You need to get used to that happening regularly. I’m going to rely on your opinion for a lot of things. Because of work, I’m not always going to be around to check things for myself. That’s where you’ll come in. I trust you to watch out for our family’s best interests, so I don’t think being my eyes and ears is too much to ask.”

The fact that Aila hadn’t been swayed by anything but getting the most for his money went a long way toward proving his trust wasn’t misplaced. While choosing either of the newer, more expensive homes wouldn’t have been wrong, Bishop appreciated the fact that

she’d recognized the quality of the older home. While he would have gone with her choice, this house was his pick as well. He appreciated both the Georgian design and the privacy the larger lot afforded them.

“It isn’t,” Aila agreed. “This wine is excellent. I don’t suppose you own the vineyard?”

“No, but a business acquaintance does,” Bishop informed her as they both tucked into their meal before it got cold. “His wife does. Her family’s been in the industry for over two hundred years.”

“Will I be meeting them?” Aila asked, not sure what her role in his life would be. “Or is that too real?”

“You’ll be meeting a lot of my friends and associates, so get ready for it.” Watching the help clear their plates away, Nolan dismissed their servers until he was ready for dessert. "Our marriage will be real as you allow, so you need to get your mind around being treated like the partner you are. We can start with this.”

Reaching into his pocket, Nolan placed a small box on the table before reaching for her hand.

“Aila Peterson, will you marry me?” Opening the box, he presented the engagement ring he’d purchased in Lisbon for her perusal. “If you don’t like the ring, you can pick one out from the jeweler of your choice.”

“What’s not to like?” Aila gazed at the beautiful three-carat Asscher-cut diamond set in the center of a double French-set yellow gold band. “It’s perfect and it’s more than I expected.”

“It shouldn’t be.” Nolan leaned over to slide the ring on her finger and kiss the corner of her lips, knowing anything more would make her uncomfortable. It would also provide the members of his staff sneaking a peek at a show they didn’t deserve. He had a feeling their special moment would show up on social media anyway. He was counting on it. “Sofie expects her father to give her mother pretty things. Don’t you know that’s what good daddies do?”

“Is that what she said?” Somehow, Aila suspected she had. “That good daddies give mommies pretty things?”

“Something like that.” Nolan agreed, smiling at the memory. “I’m glad she did, or I wouldn’t have picked that up in Lisbon.”

He would have waited until they found something together and missed out on a unique design. He would have also missed out on the matching necklace, bracelet, and earrings he’d bought to give her on their wedding day. Somehow, he hadn’t hesitated when the sales associate showed him the accompanying pieces. He’d had her box them up and taken them with him, knowing they’d suit Aila’s understated beauty perfectly.

“I won’t be picking out another ring.” Aila studied the ring, deciding she was staring at five carats of near-perfect diamonds at a minimum. “And I don’t believe we could do any better together. I think Sofie will agree. She’ll go crazy when she sees this.”

“Good,” Nolan said quietly. “Although I did send a picture to her phone before I came home.”

“That little stinker.” Aila decided she needed to monitor Sofie’s cell phone a little closer, even if it was the one her Daddy bought for their correspondence. “She didn’t say a word.”

“That’s because I swore her to secrecy,” Bishop smirked at her. “Even then, I wasn’t sure she could do it.”

“She did it all right.” Aila sniped. “What are you doing?”

“Sending Sofie the picture of you wearing your engagement ring, she requested.” Bishop sent the photograph and put his phone away. “She wanted proof I got the job done.”

“She wanted proof you got the job done?” Aila snorted, thinking that sounded like her child. “She doesn’t get that attitude from my side of the family, so it must come from yours.”

“If you say so.” Nolan smiled at how completely Aila claimed his daughter as her own. “I think she gets it from both of us. If I don’t miss my guess, you won’t fully accept we’re getting married until the ceremony is done.”

“You may be right.” Not necessarily for the reasons he thought. “All of this still feels like a fairy tale.”

“Cinderella?” Bishop motioned for their server to bring the dessert tray. “Two coffees and whatever the lady wants.”

“More like Sleeping Beauty.” Aila corrected. “Like I just woke up one day and you were there.”

“That sounds like how it happened.” Bishop agreed, watching the massive slice of plain cheesecake descend between them. “I was minding my own business when a rangy lawyer turned up on my doorstep. My first impulse was to shut the door in his face. I’m glad I didn’t. I would never have met you or my daughter if I had.”

“I’m glad too.” Aila acquiesced as she took a generous bite of the perfectly baked cheesecake. “Sofie would be heartbroken if she learned you knew about her and didn’t seek her out.”

The look on Bishop’s face conveyed that it would never happen.

“What about you?” Bishop knew he wasn’t playing fair. “Would you be heartbroken if we’d never met?”

“Maybe,” Aila answered honestly. “I don’t know for sure, but I think I might be. It would certainly break my heart if I learned you knew about Sofie and didn’t want to meet her.”

That wasn’t what Bishop wanted to hear, and she knew it. However, he’d like the truth even less. She was more concerned about getting her heart broken now that they had. But she wouldn’t say those words out loud. Or give him the power that came with doing so. Her heart was her own. She’d do with it as she pleased. Right now, she wanted to lock it safely away deep inside her. The one time she’d freely given it had ended disastrously. She didn’t repeat mistakes. She learned from them.

CHAPTER TEN

Stepping out of the car, Aila thanked Bennett for his services before letting Bishop escort her into the hotel and through the lobby. Ignoring the curious stares of both employees and guests, she stepped into the elevator. As uncomfortable as the extra attention made her, she knew she had to get used to it. She was in Bishop’s world now, and intrusions were the norm.

Watching the doors close behind them, it was only a matter of minutes before the elevator stopped on the last public floor. Bishop would then slide his key card into the slot, granting them access to the private floor where his suite was located. To be honest, before he’d entered her life, she didn’t know such a thing existed. Now that she did, she needed to get used to staying in private penthouse suites. Such luxuries came with the territory.

“I had a very enjoyable evening and I hope you did, too.” Bishop opened the door and waited for her to pass through. “The food was good; the company better.”

“Yes, it was.” Aila migrated towards the balcony. “Julie certainly did a great job selecting the wine.”

“As I said, she’s one of the best in the industry.” Bishop followed her out onto the balcony. “Julie graduated at the top of her class at a prestigious culinary school in France. She served her time in the kitchen before going back to school to get her Sommelier certifications. She passed the advanced Master classes, which rarely happens at her age, before she came back to me.”

“But you aren’t taking that loyalty for granted,” Aila stated what Bishop wouldn’t. “I’m sure she’s well paid.”

“Both Julie and her husband are very well paid,” Bishop confirmed. “Armand is one of my Executive Chefs, and you know what Julie does. She can write her ticket. Go anywhere. Armand can as well. I’m lucky they stay. However, I have made it hard for them to leave.”

“I’m sure you have.” Aila wasn’t surprised by his statement. “You have a way of getting and keeping what you want.”

“Largely because I’m willing to pay what my people are worth.” Aila had researched him enough to know that was true. “Bennett’s been with me from the start, so I took an interest in his family early on. Julie showed so much promise in high school, I paid for her education and hired Armand on her recommendation a few years ago. They got married last year after playing best friends for the better part of a decade. Trust me when I say no one was surprised except maybe the lucky couple when I gave them a third interest in Serenade as a wedding present.”

Laughing out loud at his statement, Aila wasn’t surprised by his generous gift. Bishop was a complicated, twisted man. Not in a bad way. In that instinctive, self-preserving way many self-made men possessed. Just because he didn’t say it didn’t mean there wasn’t an ulterior motive behind his gift. There was, and she knew it. She wasn’t stupid, and she knew the way his mind worked by now. With his gift came the awareness that hurting him would hurt them. It was a great deterrent to betrayal. She laughed softly at his brilliance. Bishop paid his employees generously and rewarded them for a job well done. If those extra perks come with a price, so be it. Most things worth having did. If she didn’t miss her bet, Julie and Armand couldn’t do anything with that third of Serenade except sell it back to Bishop if they parted ways. She’d find out if her suspicion was right later.

“That’s nice to know.” Aila shivered slightly as the wind picked up. “You have a wonderful restaurant largely thanks to them, and this isn’t half bad either.”

“I like it.” Bishop draped his jacket over her shoulders. “It’s a nice place to live. I’m sure you’ll enjoy staying here when we bring Sofie up to the museums and shows.”

“Thank you.” Aila pulled the jacket a little tighter, ignoring the kiss dropped on top of her head. She didn’t know what to think of all the little touches and kisses Bishop indulged in lately. In public, she got it. He was putting on a show. In private, there wasn’t anyone to see. “I’m sure we will.”

“As much as I’m enjoying the moment,” Bishop glanced at his watch. “There’s a call I have to take. Feel free to stay out here if you’d like. It’s a beautiful night.”

“I might do that.” Aila unconsciously leaned into the hug he gave her. “It is beautiful.”

“I’ll find you as soon as I’m done.” Bishop turned on his heel and headed for his office. “I won’t be that long.”

“Do what you have to do.” Aila heard the French Doors close behind her. “Well, I guess that’s how our life will be from here on out: business calls, business trips, and business meetings.” She groused out loud, surprised she already resented the interruption of their perfect evening before she had the right. “I guess I’ll get used to that, too.”

Somehow, her life was integrating into Bishop’s much too fast for her peace of mind. Shaking her head, Aila decided it was too cool to be outside even with Bishop’s jacket shielding her from the worst of the breeze. Walking back inside, she ambled around, absorbing the modern décor and hoping her fiancé wouldn’t expect their home to be furnished this way. Not that she didn’t like it, she did. It suited the suite. However, nothing in here would blend well with the treasured antiques she’d inherited from her grandmother. Deciding she’d worry about that later, Aila headed for the living room and the comfy chair in the corner.

Catching sight of herself in the gilded mirror over the couch, she stopped to study her reflection. Gently fingering the necklace resting against her skin, Aila couldn’t believe she was wearing something so exquisite. Whomever this James was, she could see why Bishop invested in his business. The man was a talented artisan. She’d never seen anything like this necklace, much less hoped to own it.

“I’ll let James know the suite won’t be coming back.” Bishop quietly informed her as he rested his hand lightly on her shoulder. “He’ll be pleased you appreciate his work.”

“Thank you.” Aila reached up to place her hand over his. “It’s a beautiful piece.”

Despite her earlier conviction, Aila had decided Bishop was right throughout the evening. If she needed expensive jewelry, this was a perfect set to start her collection. As much as she wanted to stick to her guns where money was concerned, she was marrying a very wealthy man who expected to provide for her.

Like it or not, that provision included keeping her in a style he, not she, was accustomed to. There was also the fact that she needed to look the part she was playing. Even if their upcoming marriage was built on a lie. She knew that. He knew that. The rest of the world didn’t. It was in her best interests to keep it that way. If maintaining the facade meant swallowing her pride, then so be it. She had to do what was best for her family now.

“Yes, it is.” Bishop agreed. “But not as beautiful as you.”

Turning her around, Bishop knew he was going to do far more than brush his lips against hers as he had in the past. He was going to kiss her like he’d wanted to in Serenade moments after he’d slipped that ring on her finger. From her reaction, Aila was going to let him.

Splaying his hand against naked skin, Bishop caressed her back as he drew her into a devouring kiss that was anything but innocent. Letting his hands wander over her body, he coaxed the kind of response from the woman in his arms he hadn’t expected. From the soft moans he was eliciting, Aila wouldn’t protest him lifting her in his arms and carrying her to his bed. Not tonight anyway. But tomorrow would be a different matter.

“Aila, stop.” Pressing his forehead against hers, Bishop tore his lips from hers and pulled her dress back in place. “That should clear up any lingering doubts about whether I want you or not. If it were up to me, we’d have that real marriage from the start. But it isn’t. It’s up to you, and I’ll respect your decision.”

“Thank you.” Aila closed her eyes, realizing she wouldn’t have stopped if he hadn’t. Unfortunately, she would have regretted losing her head, and that wasn’t any way to start a marriage. Even a pretend one. “We barely know each other.”

“I guess we don’t.” There was no sense in repeating that she already knew him better than any woman did when she wouldn’t believe him. “Not like we will after we’ve lived together for a while.”

“Oh, man, it’s happening, isn’t it?” While she knew that with her mind, nothing felt real, yet. It probably wouldn’t until she had the gold band on her finger just as he’d said. “We’re doing it?”

“If you mean getting married, then yes, we are,” Bishop stated softly.

If she meant make love, then yes, they would do that, too. Eventually. Probably before either of them was emotionally ready. He was as sure of that as he was he’d already accepted what she wouldn’t. The attraction was just too great to be otherwise. While he appreciated her values and her self-restraint, all that would change once they married. A major impediment to their intimacy would fall by the wayside when their commitment was real. More real than she was ready to accept.

“I asked, you agreed, and I’m holding you to your offer.”

“Oh?” Aila quirked a brow at him. “You’re sure that’s how it all went down?”

“Yep.” Bishop dropped a kiss on her nose, ignoring her dubious expression. “That’s my story, and I’m sticking to it.”

“You do that.” Aila smiled at his ridiculous comment. “If you’re that sure, who am I to argue?”

“You can’t.” Bishop’s face suddenly turned serious. “Speaking of getting married, our engagement will be all over the news by the time you wake up tomorrow. Don’t be surprised if some of the more brazen paparazzi are lying in wait when we finally go out.”

“It’s not going to be pleasant, is it?” Aila didn’t need to hear his answer. “It’s okay. I have to get used to their stunts eventually.”

“Ignoring the attention gets easier with time,” Bishop reassured her. “They become more like gnats buzzing in the background the longer they hang around. It helps to know the bottom feeders will lose interest once they realize we’re nothing special.

About the time they take their hundredth shot of you dropping Sofie off at school and me catching a flight out, they’ll leave us alone. Married couples going through the motions of everyday life don’t sell magazines. Scandals and excesses do.

If we stay low-key and keep our noses clean, we should stay under the radar. That doesn’t mean those happy family shots won’t appear now and then. They will, but they’re a small price to pay for privacy.”

“I guess they are.” Aila agreed, although she wasn’t happy about it. “They’re going to dig around until they find Jason, aren’t they?”

“They already have.” He wouldn’t lie to her even if he didn’t know one of the less desirable rags was ready to expose everything. “The story will break tomorrow or the next day at the latest.”

“You’re kidding me.” Aila wasn’t sure whether to laugh like crazy or scream in frustration. It had taken years to leave all that behind. The last thing she wanted was to stir that pot again. “I was afraid that would happen.”

“There’s nothing to be afraid of,” Bishop reassured her as he drew her into his arms. While he didn’t know her side of the story from her mouth, Jackson told him enough to see that Aila was still emotionally damaged by what she’d been through. “Nothing they say will make you look bad. You were the victim, not the perpetrator, although I’d say survivor is a better term. Public sympathy will be with you. If anything, the world will see what an incredible woman I’m marrying, and you’ll inspire a few women to fight instead of giving up.”

Once he’d learned Bishop was contemplating marrying Aila, Jackson had filled him in on her nasty divorce. He’d made sure he knew why she’d eventually fled to Taylorsville. She’d been an innocent casualty of a vicious divorce playing out in the media.

Unfortunately, her ex-husband had chosen to play around with the wife of a prominent man, and his transgressions cost Aila everything. While Bishop empathized with what she’d been through, it didn’t discourage him from pursuing her. Why would it? They were both damaged in their own way.

“I’m not afraid.” Aila leaned into his chest, enjoying the hardness beneath her cheek. “I’d just rather not relive the fiasco now I’ve finally put it all behind me.”

“I feel the same.” But there wasn’t anything he could do about it. “I could probably stop the initial reports, but somebody somewhere would make sure the story got out. The best way to handle the whole situation is just to barrel through and move on with our lives. Keep your head high. You had nothing to do with what happened all those years ago, even if you paid the price for it.”

“Yes, I did, and I won’t do it again,” Aila stated firmly. “I also won’t let my past hurt Sofie if I can help it, and it could.”

“It won’t if we work together,” Bishop reassured her. “Sofie’s stronger than you think. She’ll be fine if we explain what we need to and ignore the rest. Don't lie to her, just insulate her from things she’s too young to understand. Besides, the closer we get to becoming a family, the less Sofie will care what the grownups say. All she cares about is us being together.”

“You may be right.” Their daughter was walking on air since she’d learned they were getting married. “She’s so excited about everything that’s happening, I’m not sure she’ll notice anything else. She can’t wait until we’re living in the new house. She doesn’t even care about leaving the old neighborhood.”

Aila wasn’t telling him anything he didn’t already know. Sofie was nearly bursting at the seams with excitement. She’d told him over and over she couldn’t wait until they moved into their house. She couldn’t wait until he came to live with them. She couldn’t wait to have a mommy and daddy like the other kids.

That was what she wanted most, and he was determined to give it to her. A real mom and dad who loved each other. He just had to get Aila’s cooperation. While she was closer to falling than she had been, he still had a way to go, and his work was cut out for him. There wasn’t any reason he couldn’t start now.

“I’m rather excited about everything myself.” Somehow, Aila didn’t think he meant his words quite the way Sofie did. “I’m looking forward to being in the new house, too.”

From the way he was seductively caressing her back and sides, Bishop’s intent was anything but innocent. Snorting softly at his hubris, Aila let him have his fun. She wasn’t in any danger of losing her head even if he wanted her to. That wasn’t happening. His touch felt good. But not that good. She wasn’t making the same mistake twice.

“As much as I’m enjoying this, we have to call Sofie, or she’ll never go to sleep.” Ignoring his tangible disappointment, Aila leaned up to kiss Bishop’s cheek. “Besides, as much as you like playing with fire, we need to douse the flame before we get in trouble again.”

“You may be right.” Bishop reluctantly agreed. “Although it’s always fun to test the limits.”

“Up to a point.” Aila headed towards her purse and her cell phone. “We just passed that point a while ago.”

Nodding, Bishop watched her hit the first redial button and waited for the sound of Sofie’s voice. As much as he hated to capitulate, Aila was right. While he could probably push the envelope too far without much effort, they’d only regret it in the morning. He’d already been there and done that and didn’t find the experience worth repeating.

Not when he could have it all if he waited for Aila to come to him.

CHAPTER ELEVEN

Looking around her massive bedroom, Aila couldn’t believe how fast their lives came together once they put their minds to it. Before she knew it, they owned a house. Together. As wild as it seemed, both their names were on the deed when the only thing she’d contributed was her signature on the paperwork. As much as she loved her place across town, she loved this one more. She couldn’t wait to start her new life here.

The house had everything she’d ever wanted, including a large pool in the backyard and gigantic walk-in closets she couldn’t wait to commandeer. Although everything but their essentials was already here, she and Sofie had yet to move in. They hadn’t even stayed over while Bishop was out of town. They couldn’t afford to take that chance.

Given who her fiancé was, the press was looking for any seeming impropriety to exploit to their benefit. Added to that, they lived in a small town where everyone knew everyone’s business, or thought they did. The fact that she’d so recently gone from plain old Aila at Doc Corey’s to the fiancée of one of the most eligible bachelors in the country made her fresh fodder for the rumor mill. And from what she was hearing, the gossips were having a field day. She was fast learning what people didn’t know; they were happy to make up. Especially when the rich and famous were involved.

While times had changed and people already assumed they were doing what they might never do, Sofie was an innocent child. Her parents intended to keep her that way for as long as possible. More importantly, Bishop didn’t want their daughter reading anything that might make her think her parents said one thing and did another when she was old enough to understand. She had to respect them and know their word was their bond. He hadn’t had that growing up and wanted his child’s life to be different.

Aila loved that about the man. He meant what he said and said what he meant. In both his business and personal lives. She’d known where she stood almost from the start. Any problems she had in accepting that had more to do with her than him.

Walking over to the bathroom, she stared at the massive tub and dreamed of the long soaks she’d take. While the tub at her place was oversized, it was nothing like this. It would be a beast to clean, but, as far as she was concerned, the benefits outweighed the inconvenience. She hoped they did anyway. Leaving the bathroom, she ambled through the rest of the house, pleased with how far they’d come towards making their house a home in a few short days.

None of that should surprise her. Not when she considered how fast they’d bought the house in the first place. While she wasn’t surprised Bishop paid cash, she was surprised he’d gone from offer to ownership in less than a week. She’d been amazed, but not that interested in learning how it was done. All that mattered was that he moved into their sparsely furnished house soon after. Or, more accurately, Bennett moved Bishop’s belongings into the house while he was gone.

The great man himself caught a flight to London an hour after the closing was done. Three weeks later, Bishop flew back into town to buy the furniture they didn’t have. Looking around, Aila thought they’d done an amazing job of integrating the new with the old. Her antiques accented the bold, solid wood and leather pieces they’d both gravitated towards without clashing in any way. Aila was proud to say their home was an eclectic mix of the old and the new that was warm and welcoming in ways she never expected.

“What do you think?” Bishop wrapped his arms around her waist. “I’d say we did a good job. Your pieces fit right in.”

He thought their surroundings were a harmonious blend of the masculine with just the right touch of feminine to soften the edges and give their home that refined, lived-in feeling guests would find appealing. While he knew Aila was somewhat gobsmacked at how easily their possessions and their lives were integrating, he wasn’t surprised at all. He’d seen the possibilities she was still blind to from the start.

“It’s my dream house,” Aila admitted. “While I make good money, I could never buy a place like this on my own. It’s much too large and elegant for two people.”

It was much too large for three people. Who cared? Things weren’t staying that way for long. Having Sofie in his life was stirring feelings Bishop had never had. Longings he’d never felt. Somehow, some way, he could see this house filled with more than the pitter-patter of one little girl’s feet. While he could be undone, he wasn’t. He’d known one frightened, dark-haired woman heralded changes in his life he’d never contemplated that first night in Sadie’s.

He wasn’t that surprised to realize he suddenly wanted the full package he’d always sneered at. More importantly, he wanted it with the woman in his arms. He didn’t think she’d mind when the time was right. Aila was maternal to the core. She’d always wanted children. Not just a child. She’d said so in passing. She just didn’t think she’d have them. He thought she was wrong.

Resting his chin on top of her head, Bishop couldn’t believe how much his life had changed in a few short weeks thanks to one small woman. It was telling that he hadn’t dismissed the idea of marrying Aila the second it crossed his mind. He hadn’t. He’d seriously contemplated the possibility instead. He’d realized he was in deep trouble soon after. That his actions signaled a major shift in his thinking wasn’t anything he was ready to accept.

But there was something about Aila that captivated him in ways he’d never been caught. An elusive quality he couldn’t identify. At first, he’d put it down to holding her own when they first met. That she wasn’t impressed by him, his power, or his possessions. He’d soon realized that wasn’t it. Then he’d thought it might be the fact that she could take care of herself and Sofie without him. He’d dismissed that as well. He’d finally decided it was her open honesty housed in a tempting package, only to realize that was wrong, too.

Whatever the unidentifiable it was, he was well and truly caught by their third or fourth encounter. His feelings had grown to the point that he saw himself making a life with Aila. Something he’d never wanted with any other woman. Nor ever expected to. And something that, while true, wasn’t anything he was willing to share with the object of his affections. She’d head for the hills if he did.

“When are the florists arriving?” Bishop glanced at the clock and smiled, knowing they’d be married in a few short hours. “It should be any time now, shouldn’t it?”

“Silvie will be here in fifteen or twenty minutes.” Aila leaned into his chest. “She called a little while ago to say she was on her way.”

Bishop nodded. The consummate professional, the woman would get to work as soon as she walked through the door. The flowers were already in the cooler in their garage, along with everything she needed to prepare for the wedding. He’d made arrangements to rent everything Silvie would need while he was moving in, hoping no one would make the connection between the deliveries and their upcoming nuptials. So far, he hadn’t noticed any kind of unusual activities, but that didn’t mean the paparazzi weren’t on to them. He’d be surprised if unauthorized photographs didn’t show up within hours of the wedding.

“The caterers won’t be here until later, but they’re coming in through the side entrance. By that time, it won’t matter if the vultures figure out what’s going on. They won’t be able to see anything, and most of our guests will already be inside.”

“Sounds like everything is under control.” Exactly as he expected it to be. “Then I guess it’s okay to take Sofie to the pool for that swim.”

“I guess it is.” Aila agreed. “We have a few hours before we have to get ready, but you still need to get a move on if you’re going to have that swim.”

“What about you?” Bishop asked. “Why don’t you join us?”

“I don’t think so.” Aila shook her head. “I need to hang out downstairs so I can answer any questions. Besides, we have the rest of our lives to swim in that pool. Sofie just wants some alone time with you, and I think you should give it to her.”

“You may be right.” Bishop leaned in to kiss her cheek. “That doesn’t mean I won’t miss you.”

“You’ll see me soon enough.” Aila took his swimming trunks out of a drawer. “I’m going to check on Sofie and take her downstairs to the pool. I’ll try to get her into her floaties before you arrive.”

“Good luck and try to stay dry while you’re doing it.” His kid was a fish on a good day. “I’ll be there as soon as I can.”

Nodding, Aila walked into the hall and closed the door behind her before heading for Sofie’s room. The last thing she needed was to catch a glance of Bishop changing. She’d been having too many questionable dreams since New York, anyway. Something about the way he’d kissed her more than once had her mind going places it shouldn’t. Their relationship wasn’t like that, and she knew it. Shaking her head, Aila hoped her daughter was already in her favorite purple one-piece with the dancing unicorn front and center. It would take her a few minutes to get dressed if she weren’t. Long enough that Bishop should already be waiting by the time they arrived at the pool.

In the meantime, she needed to get her mind back in neutral territory. Something that was getting more difficult with every passing day. She’d had to remind herself over and over that while Bishop might be putting a ring on her finger, a wedding night wasn’t part of the plan. Even if the ball was in her court, she wasn’t going there. It was much too dangerous.

CHAPTER TWELVE

Sitting on the edge of her bed, Aila took a deep breath and willed herself to relax. She’d been so much calmer earlier today, only to gradually lose it as the day wore on. It started with seeing Bishop all but naked on the lanai deck. Things had gone downhill from there. Maybe the fact that she’d been busy with the florist, the caterers, and dressing Sofie until a couple of hours ago had kept her anxiety at bay. Maybe not seeing Bishop in several hours was adding to the strain. She didn’t know.

What she did know was she’d second-guessed herself a thousand times every day since her return from New York. That pattern hadn’t changed. She doubted moving her belongings into the new house. She doubted the wisdom of renting her old house to the nice young attorney working in his father’s firm. She doubted marrying Bishop. She doubted everything from start to finish. She couldn’t help herself. She still wasn’t sure she was doing the right thing. Or if she was letting herself in for a world of hurt.

There was no denying she felt more for Bishop than she should at this stage in their relationship. From how her heart sped up when he was near, her daughter wasn’t the only Bishop who’d gotten under her skin. Not that she was admitting that. No way. She’d been there, done that, and spent years putting her life back together. She wasn’t interested in repeating mistakes. She’d keep her feelings to herself or die trying.

Snorting at her reflection, Aila decided she was an idiot for even thinking she could tangle with a man like Bishop and walk away unscathed. He was every woman’s dream: smart, cultured, wealthy, and nice. Or he was when you ignored the reality that he was a workaholic who was rarely home. A dream that is. While she wouldn’t like to be on the business end of a deal gone bad, he treated her and Sofie with affection, so she couldn’t complain there. She also couldn’t call herself a fool for falling for him. Honestly, she’d be a fool if she didn’t. That was the problem.

She’d been swimming in dangerous waters for much too long already. Everything changed the moment she agreed to marry him. The walls she’d built between them instantly crumbled, and some part of her wanted the fantasy to be real. She wasn’t sure when she started feeling that way or why. She just knew she did.

Maybe she was lonely and didn’t know it. Or maybe it was the man himself. God help her. She’d been fiercely attracted to Bishop from the start. He was tall, well-built, with strong features more arresting than handsome. Fortunately, or unfortunately, he seemed to find her equally attractive. However, she wasn’t going to dwell on that now. Not when she had a wedding to get ready for.

Staring at the subtly beaded, floor-length champagne sheath, Aila couldn’t believe her wedding day was finally here. It hadn’t felt that way this morning. But, watching the clock on her dresser ticking down, it did now. Truthfully, she couldn’t believe she was doing this. Marrying someone she barely knew because he was her daughter’s biological father. Then again, that wasn’t true either. She’d come to know Nolan quite well since he’d put that beautiful ring on her finger.

Probably as much as anyone could in a few short weeks. He’d gone so far as to move into their new house six weeks ago to spend more time with her. Sadly, he wasn’t around that much. However, their relationship had grown largely because they’d both made tremendous efforts to get to know each other. They’d talked at least once every two or three days and sometimes more. When Bishop was in town, they spent as much time together as possible, both with and without Sofie.

Unfortunately, he’d been in France for the last three weeks, cementing his relationship with the vineyard owners and arranging delivery of that rare wine he’d let her sample a lifetime ago. He’d flown back to Taylorsville last night, which meant her life had changed more than she thought possible in so little time. In preparation for today, she’d loaded up the last four boxes and moved out of her house as her renter moved in. She and Sofie had spent last night in the new house and loved everything about it except that the man in their lives wasn’t with them. While back in town, Bishop had spent the night at a hotel in town.

From what he’d said when he finally arrived at the house this morning, staying in Taylorsville was the right move even if he didn’t want to. The paparazzi had descended the moment he stepped off the plane and followed his every move. They hadn’t been shy about it either. Every action was photographed from his arrival on the runway to his solitary dinner at Sadie’s to the rare nightcap on the balcony. It was a good thing they’d stayed apart. Sleeping in the same house would have opened a can of worms they didn’t want to deal with. As it was, the reporters were having a field day dragging their past lives through the media without getting fresh ammunition.

Snorting, Aila reminded herself that if nosey reporters weren’t bad enough, her renter had rocked her world earlier this week as well. For a stuffy young lawyer, he’d gone off the deep end without warning and proposed to his girlfriend. She’d said yes, and the happy couple quickly decided her house was the perfect starter home. So, Jamie had offered her more than fair market value to take her bungalow off her hands before he finished moving in, and she’d accepted with Bishop’s blessing. She couldn’t turn down a once-in-a-lifetime offer even if it cost her last safety net. Like it or not, their new house was truly home. Her only home. But now wasn’t the time to think about that. It would only make her stomach churn more than it already was. Right now, she had to take a deep breath and get on with getting on.

Fingering the heavy silk, Aila carefully stepped into the garment. For the sake of privacy, they were getting married downstairs in their den before an audience of a hundred or so close friends and business associates. Nolan had flown in his favorite caterer from New York to help the locals prepare a casual, upscale, intimate dinner in celebration of the happy moment. He’d also put their guests up at the best hotels in town, including the one he’d stayed in last night.

Gazing at her reflection in the mirror, Aila decided she’d never looked better. Her makeup was tastefully photo-ready, and her shoulder-length locks were arranged in a becoming updo. She ought to look good, considering her fiancé had brought in a world-famous make-up artist and hair stylist to see that she was picture-perfect.

Among the guests attending her wedding, Ari and Shula were Susan’s favorite go-to couple when she had an important meeting with a potential employer. Not sure how she felt about using the ex-girlfriend’s Dream Team on her wedding day, Aila was surprised she’d warmed up to the couple immediately. It hadn’t hurt when Shula bluntly stated that they much preferred transforming her to the testy model, and Ari seconded it. From their reaction, Susan was a piece of work.

“Aila.” Bishop stuck his head through the door without waiting for permission. “You look magnificent.”

“You can’t be in here.” Aila hissed at him. “It’s bad luck to see the bride before the wedding.”

“I don’t believe that.” Nolan verbally brushed her protests aside as he smoothly fastened each of the tiny crystal buttons parading up her back. “Not when I need to give you this.”

Aila’s eyes widened as her fiancé lowered a beautiful diamond necklace in front of her face. Staring at the Asscher-cut gemstones, she realized the necklace matched her stunning engagement ring. Watching him fasten the jewels around her neck, she wasn’t sure she could have picked a more perfect piece to complement her dress. Forget the earrings and bracelet that completed the set.

“I don’t know what to say.” She watched him carefully fasten the back of the matching chandelier earring before allowing him to fasten the bracelet around her wrist. “Except thank you, and it wasn’t necessary. The ring was enough.”

“I didn’t buy any of this for appearance’s sake, Nolan said quietly. “I knew the moment Renni showed me the set that the pieces were perfect for you. Delicate and understated, but of exceptional quality.”

Aila refused to contemplate what he was saying.

What she did know was that Nolan had chosen this latest gift with her, not his position, in mind. While her soon-to-be husband was comfortable with his wealth, he knew she wasn’t, and he was fine with that. His personal life had always been rather low-key, considering who he was. His business life was another matter.

On the rare occasion he needed to roll out the limousine and hire a jet to make the right impression, Bishop did that. What was the point of having wealth and power if you didn’t use both when you needed to? But, day-to-day, he was just an ordinary man. Or as close to ordinary as a man like him could be.

“Thank you.” Aila gently fingered the necklace. “As much as I’m enjoying this, all hell will break loose if Shula or Ari catches you in here, and our guests will be arriving any moment.”

“They’ve already started.” Nolan leaned in to drop a kiss on her temple. “I’ll see you soon.”

“Yes, you will.” Aila agreed. “Send Sofie up here so I can keep her out of trouble.”

“I’ll send her up right before the ceremony,” Nolan promised. “Right now, she’s helping to entertain the guests, so she’s fine where she is.”

“Whatever you say.” Somehow, Aila wasn’t sure he was right about their daughter. Sofie had her daddy snowed. Oh, well, Daddy would learn the error of his ways soon enough. Try later tonight when things wind down. “I’ll see you in a few.”

Accepting the faintest brush of his hand against hers, Aila appreciated the gentle reassurance that everything would be okay. Shoving his trepidations aside, Nolan constantly went out of his way to calm hers. He was so cool and collected that it was easy to forget he was as vulnerable to the vagaries of the situation as she was. They would both be hurt if their marriage imploded. Not so much because of emotional ties to each other, but the deep love they both felt for their daughter.

Sliding into her shoes, Aila straightened her jewelry. Stepping back, she evaluated her appearance and had to admit Shula and Ari had done their job well. As had Stephie at the bridal shop in New York, and the clerk at the jewelry store. As hard as it was to accept, the chic, refined woman staring back at her looked every inch Nolan Bishop’s wife: cool, calm, and magnificent.

Grabbing her bouquet from the dresser, Aila studied the rich crimson peonies and black calla lilies, thinking how different this arrangement was from the innocent white and pink roses she’d carried the first time around. Well, she wasn’t that sweet, trusting girl marrying the third floor’s Golden Boy anymore. She was a grown woman with a sweet, trusting girl of her own and a fiancé in a class of his own.

“Sweetie, we’re waiting for the go-ahead from you.” Corey poked her head into the room. “Sherry wanted me to make sure you’re ready and tell you Dennis is waiting at the top of the stairs.”

“I’m as ready as I’ll ever be.” Aila hugged her boss, grateful that Corey’s husband was giving her away. “Thanks for loaning Dennis. I can’t think of anyone I’d rather give me away.”

“He’s happy to do it.” Corey studied Aila’s appearance. “You look beautiful. Whoever Bishop hooked you up with in New York picked the perfect dress, and Kathy outdid herself with your bouquet. But the show stealer is your jewelry. Babe, that man’s a keeper. He put a lot of thought into choosing pieces he knew you would like that would suit you perfectly. Just so you know, there was nothing casual about what he did. You might think there was, but I know differently. You’re a lucky woman even if you don’t know that yet.”

Closing her eyes, Aila agreed she would be a lucky woman if the final ingredient were there. But it wasn’t. While they were both open to possibilities, they didn’t love each other. Far from it. She wasn’t under any illusions about that. However, she wasn’t dwelling on the truth of the situation. She had Sofie to think about and a wedding to get through.

Opening her eyes, she gave Corey leave to tell the Wedding Planner she was ready when they were. Watching her Boss scamper from the room like an out-of-control teenager, the thought crossed Aila’s mind that she might be more excited about her marriage than she was. Considering the silly woman was the only one of them mumbling about her “something new” really being something new, she’d say that was a given.

Laughing softly, Aila was glad Corey was so pleased by this latest turn of events. She’d seen the devastation Jason wrought in her life firsthand, and she saw how differently Nolan treated her already. There wasn’t any reason not to be excited. Her fiancé, and soon-to-be husband, genuinely cared if she was happy, and she returned the favor. So far, their efforts had worked better than either of them expected, even if they weren’t having that much-anticipated wedding night.

However, that was a secret no one had to know but them.

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

Closing the door behind Corey and Dennis, Aila leaned against the wall in disbelief as the last of their guests finally departed. As emotionally draining as the day was, she could honestly say she’d had the time of her life. They’d made it through the ceremony and spoken their vows without a hitch, save the slight quiver in her voice near the end. Bishop’s reassuring grip on her hand and his calming smile had brought her through that momentary falter with flying colors.

They’d then made it through the long dinner and reception hand in hand, never leaving each other’s side. She’d had a wonderful evening. If anyone told her that she’d enjoy marrying a man she didn’t love, she would have called them nuts to their face. But she hadn’t counted on the groom. Bishop played the room like a masterful conductor with her by his side. He’d made sure everyone felt like old friends before he was done. Aila was safe in saying no one wanted the evening to end. Not even Sofie, who’d finally curled up on the couch after loudly proclaiming grown-up weddings were too doggone much for a little girl.

“Well, it’s finally over,” Nolan commented. “You made it through with flying colors.”

“I guess I did.” Aila didn’t even try to deny how nervous she’d been. “You made it easy.”

“I guess I did.” Bishop echoed her words back at her. “One day you’ll realize it’s easy on your own. Marrying me opened the door, but you made the friends.”

At least with his inner circle. He wouldn’t say it would be as easy with everyone. There were always nasty people out there, and quite a few of them navigated through his world. It didn’t help that some of them were women who’d hoped to trap him in their web. Many of them, he’d had nothing to do with, seeing their intent from the start. A few had passed fleetingly through his life. While most would be fine with his new wife, he wasn’t under any illusions that it would apply to everyone. There were several bad apples in the bunch that Aila needed to be wary of. Unfortunately, Susan was probably one of them.

“It was easy.” Aila agreed. “Your friends are nice.”

“Yes, they are.” Nolan laughed softly at her naiveté. “But don’t forget they’re also ruthless rivals and business competitors. Even the wives.”

Sometimes, especially the wives.

“I won’t.” Aila blinked, suddenly realizing the women laughing over their children’s antics were more like her husband than her. “I don’t think you’ll let me.”

“I won’t.” Friends or not, they didn’t discuss business dealings they weren’t partners in. “That doesn’t mean you can’t be good friends. You’ll start getting calls as soon as your new buddies decide the honeymoon’s over. If I don’t miss my guess, Freddie will start the avalanche.”

Aila laughed at the thought that he was probably right. Frederikke, the tall, svelte, platinum-haired Norwegian wife of one of Nolan’s closest business associates, was the most gregarious of their guests. She’d liked her immediately. Even if the woman had an open, harmless, tongue-in-cheek flirtation with her husband, that would probably last the rest of their lives. It helped that Freddie was also undeniably head over heels in love with her husband, and he felt the same. Other than the occasional trash talk, they only had eyes for each other. As for her husband, Aila liked Roland immediately with his droll wit and ready smile as much as she liked his wife.

“You’re probably right.” She had no doubts she’d get calls, but she doubted she’d see her new friends very often. They lived all over the globe. “We’ll see what happens. Right now, I think we need to take care of Sofie. She’s going to be unhappy that she didn’t get to tell everyone goodbye.”

“I think she did that before she crashed.” She’d made a charming production of showing off her new pajamas while she’d done it. “Hopefully, she won’t wake up while we’re tucking her in.”

“I doubt she will.” Aila watched him carefully scoop their daughter from the couch. “She sleeps like a rock.”

Carrying his precious cargo up the stairs, Bishop agreed with her observation. He’d wondered if it was normal in the early days. The way that the child slept through almost anything. Aila had assured him it was. There was nothing abnormal about Sofie. She was just one of those fortunate people who didn’t have any trouble getting the rest her body craved. The fact that she roused easily, bright, and refreshed every morning reassured him over time.

Tucking her beneath the covers, Nolan dropped a kiss on his daughter’s forehead before stepping back so his wife could do the same. Tucking the covers a little higher under Sofie’s chin, Aila noted the faint smile on her lips. Nodding, she led the way out of the room. Flipping the light switch and closing the door behind him, Nolan stopped in the hallway.

“I have a couple of business calls I need to make.” He nodded towards their bedroom. “Why don’t you take a bath and get ready for bed? I’ll meet you here after I’m done. It shouldn’t take that long. Maybe an hour or an hour and a half tops.”

While not necessarily happy with this latest turn of events, Aila understood that her husband had irons in the fire he couldn’t ignore even on his wedding day.

“I can do that.” Aila nodded. “If I’m asleep when you return, I’ll see you in the morning.”

“I’ll try to be finished before that happens,” Nolan promised as he headed down the stairs. “It is our wedding night.”

Rolling her eyes, Aila let his remark pass without comment. She was gradually learning to read the man, and right now he was more interested in getting a rise out of her than he was in making a real pass. While it was true that they were sleeping in the same bed for appearance’s sake, that was as far as it went, and they both knew it. Their agreement hadn’t changed, even if Bishop was rethinking the terms. Not that it would do him any good. Their marriage was still in name only as they’d originally agreed. However, to the world, it had to seem otherwise. Aila still wasn’t sure they could pull it off, but they had to try for Sophie’s sake.

Opening a dresser drawer, she grabbed the pale lilac tank top and matching bunny-covered sleep pants Sofie had given her last year. Carrying the pajamas into the bathroom, she mulled her choice, knowing she could have chosen the pink hedgehog or green froggie jammies instead. But the bunnies were her daughter’s favorite. In all honesty, she thought it had more to do with the color than the critters anyway. Starting the tap, she rummaged through her scented bath gels, deciding on a delicate cinnamon scent that wasn’t too sweet or overpowering.

Walking back into the bedroom, she slid out of the beautiful navy silk dress she’d changed into for their reception. Hanging the garment next to the wedding gown she’d shed earlier in the evening, Aila noted Bishop’s clothing was carefully arranged in his half of the massive walk-in closet. Shaking her head, she exited the room and closed the door behind her. Something about seeing their things co-mingled drove home the reality that she was sharing this room, and that bed, with her husband from now on. This wasn’t Bishop’s room anymore. It was theirs.

Tamping down on the panic welling from her gut, Aila quickly removed her undergarments before carefully lowering herself into the comfortably hot water, wondering why she was freaking out in the first place. This wasn’t a real marriage. They weren’t sharing a real wedding night. Bishop’s body wouldn’t be covering hers. She had nothing to worry about. Closing her eyes, Aila cleared her mind and allowed the tension to seep from her muscles as she reminded herself not to think of her husband as “Nolan” anymore. That secret exercise was quickly becoming much too intimate, and it had to stop.

Replaying the day’s events in her head instead, she decided their wedding had gone much better than anticipated. She’d enjoyed the ceremony, and she’d enjoyed their guests. She’d liked Bishop’s friends and they’d seemed to like her. As for her husband, she knew her friends liked him. Corey thought the man was the best thing that had ever happened to her. Aila didn’t know if she’d go that far, but she was enjoying her new life so far.

Padding into the bedroom, she gazed at herself one last time in the mirror and laughed out loud. She looked like a rebellious teenager with her freshly scrubbed face and ponytail, wearing her madly inappropriate pajamas. Truthfully, she looked just like she always did. Like she and Sofie were about to hang out in front of the television watching a kiddie movie with a big bowl of popcorn and their favorite soda. She couldn’t stop the thought that this was so different from her first wedding night.

Shaking that realization from her mind, her eyes landed on a beribboned box on the bed. Nolan, no, Bishop must have snuck back in while she was taking her bath. Untying the bow, she noticed the name of a familiar boutique imprinted across the lid. An expensive boutique he must have visited in New York, either on his way to or from Switzerland. How he’d managed to hide the elegantly wrapped box with Sofie in the house was beyond her. It was obvious he had. Maybe he’d kept it at his office in town. Or maybe Connie had taken it to her house and slipped it in before the ceremony.

She wouldn’t have noticed a thing since she’d been waiting for Corey to cue her that the ceremony was about to start. Deciding she’d procrastinated long enough with irrelevant thoughts, Aila pulled the lid from the box and unfolded the marbled gold tissue paper to reveal a beautiful antique ivory gown and robe complete with matching beaded heel slippers. Removing the silk gown from the box, she realized it was decorated with a tasteful smattering of sequins and seed pearls across the bodice and straps.

Removing her pajamas, she slipped the gown over her head and stared at her reflection in the mirror. As expected, Bishop had perfect taste. Sliding her arms through the robe, she gently fingered the delicate pearl and sequin design at the wrists, neck, and hem that mirrored the pattern on her gown. Were the gown sexier and less tasteful, she might think Bishop had truly changed his mind about a marriage in name only. But she didn’t. She knew better. The man was just being thoughtful. He wanted her to feel like a bride. Or as much like a bride as she could under the circumstances.

Reaching up to pull the tie from her hair, Aila decided the ponytail had to go. It didn’t suit her new ensemble. Fluffing her hair, she decided she would do. She wasn’t about to run into the bathroom to slather makeup on her nice, clean skin. Somehow, that defeated the purpose of bathing in the first place.

Besides, Bishop was used to seeing her just as she was. Between her natural olive skin, thick dark lashes, and the slight pinky shimmer of the lip moisturizer she applied every night, she didn’t look too shabby. Deciding she was done, Aila stepped out of her slippers, draped her robe over a chair, and climbed into bed.

Grabbing her medical journal from the bedside table, she turned to her marked passage. Scanning the introductory paragraphs on the newest treatments for Postpartum Depression, she knew Corey was right in recommending the article. It was filled with information she would use in her day-to-day practice. Closing the magazine, she said a silent prayer of thanks that none of that was anything she had to worry about. She seriously doubted she and Nolan would ever have any children.

He wasn’t exactly a family man, and they already had Sofie. Besides, she wasn’t about to kick a gift horse in the mouth and ask for more than he was willing to give. She’d made peace with never having a biological child when she adopted Sofie. Since her marriage imploded years ago, one child was more than she’d ever thought to have. She wouldn’t tempt fate by asking for more than she needed.

CHAPTER FOURTEEN

Laying her magazine aside, Aila looked up as Bishop entered the room. He’d changed into pajama bottoms at some point between making his calls and the present. Probably soon after she’d left for her bath. Maybe when he’d left his gift. Trying to keep a straight face, Aila wasn’t sure how this whole being married was going to work. Especially considering she was undeniably attracted to her husband, and he was attracted to her. That wasn’t in doubt. However, right now, she would keep her eyes off that bare expanse of muscular chest and accept the champagne he was offering her. Taking the glass, she waited patiently for him to get into bed beside her and draw the covers up to his waist.

“Since I don’t think that bite for the camera counts, I thought you’d enjoy sharing this now that we’re alone.” Bishop set the saucer filled with a generous slice of their raspberry lemon curd masterpiece on the bed between them and handed Aila a fork. “Karen outdid herself by creating the perfect cake.”

“Yes, she did.” Aila agreed. “I don’t think I’ve seen a more beautiful wedding cake.” Taking a bite, she savored the flavors, deciding the delicate buttercream icing was the best she’d ever tasted. “This is delicious, but I know you didn’t come up here to share dessert. What’s on your mind?”

“Beyond saying you’re more beautiful than I thought you’d be,” Bishop fingered the delicate strap of her gown. “I hoped we could talk for a while.” He took a sip of champagne before setting his glass aside. “Get to know each other better.”

“Okay.” Aila set her glass on the bedside table before resting her chin on her knees. “What do you want to know?”

“Maybe how a smart woman like you ended up with a man like your first husband.” He turned to face her. “You don’t seem like you’d be taken in by a player like that.”

Really? He wanted to talk about Jason on their wedding night. Aila wasn’t sure how she felt about that. Then again, her feelings weren’t that important right now. They’d both danced around the details of their sordid pasts for months. Neither of them had divulged much more than the bare bones of their skeletons in the closet. It was only fair that Bishop expected her to flesh out her story in ways she hadn’t yet. If she were honest, she expected the same.

They couldn’t afford to keep secrets anymore. Not with the press digging up every salacious detail they could find and printing them. Both the truths and the lies. As much as she wanted to leave her ghosts buried, what they didn’t know about each other could topple everything they were trying to build.

Giving in to the voice of reason screeching in her head, Aila took a deep breath, followed by a hearty gulp of champagne. Holding her glass out to be topped off, she decided to throw caution to the wind. Sofie wasn’t around to witness her foolishness, and she had a feeling getting slightly tipsy would make this whole mess easier to handle.

“I wasn’t the person I am now back then.” Aila sat up a little straighter and looked Bishop in the eyes. “My home life was strained for as long as I can remember. My parents drifted apart after I was born, but they stayed together for me. I wish they hadn’t. It wasn’t a happy situation for anyone. I escaped the tension by getting lost in my studies early on, and the habit followed me through high school.

I was so busy hiding in my schoolwork, I missed out on the normal things kids do, like dating. By the time I started college, I was book-smart and socially illiterate. I also didn’t have a family to fall back on since my parents divorced before the ink was dry on my high school diploma. The painful reminder of their miserable marriage, it didn’t take long to realize I wasn’t welcome in their lives anymore. The unreturned phone calls got that message across fast.”

“I find it hard to believe any parent could feel that way, but I’ll take your word for it.” He couldn’t imagine such a thing since meeting Sofie. “I’m sorry you had to go through that. It sounds like you were a good kid.”

“My teachers thought so.” Aila’s smile was watery enough that Bishop reached out to grip her hand reassuringly as some of the missing pieces fell into place.

Like him, his bride had more than just a traumatic divorce to make her leery of relationships and marriage. Her parents set the mold long before Jason entered the scene. Unlike him, she hadn’t been popular and well-adjusted by the time she started university. She’d been a backward, vulnerable child.

“I turned seventeen a month before I started my freshman year in college and wasn’t quite twenty when I got my R.N. I had a lot of college credits when I entered the program, and I went year-round, so I finished early. Having a full scholarship drove me to excel. My dedication paid off when I was hired to work under Corey in Obstetrics right after graduation. She was one of the foremost specialists in high-risk pregnancies in the country, so it was the opportunity of a lifetime, and I knew it.”

“What happened next?” Bishop knew there was more to the story. “You took the job and moved to Atlanta?”

“I did.” Aila agreed. “I worked hard, got glowing recommendations, and started my M.S. specializing in Obstetrics and Family Practice a year later. Unfortunately, I also met Jason on my first day at the hospital. It wasn’t long before he swept me off my feet and put a ring on my finger. We were married six months after we met. He was my first and only lover.” She’d been too invested in her career even then. “As stupid as this sounds now, I believed our lives were as close to perfect as you could get until the day everything fell apart. I can see how deluded I was now. I should have known something was off when Jason urged me to go back to school within days of our marriage.”

“No, you shouldn’t have.” Nolan linked his fingers through hers. “I’m assuming he knew your ambitions from the start and supported them?” Aila nodded. “Then there wasn’t anything suspicious about his actions. There wasn’t any reason to believe things weren’t exactly as they seemed.”

“I don’t suppose there was.” Aila reluctantly agreed. “Jason was every woman’s fantasy. He was handsome, successful, and infinitely more experienced than I. He should have been, since he was twelve years older. I thought I was the luckiest girl in the world when he asked me to marry him.

I thought I was even luckier when he didn’t care I was working on my master’s when I should have been concentrating on our marriage. I just thought he wanted a wife as successful as he was. Unfortunately, I never realized that all the time I spent in school, my studies, and work just made it easier for him to spend time with his girlfriend. The thought never crossed my mind he’d hooked up another woman while we were planning our wedding.”

“I don’t think anyone would expect that.” Nolan gently caressed her hand with two fingers. “I know it happens, but it’s dirty even by my standards.”

“Oh, it got dirty all right.” Aila continued. “What I haven’t shared is that the girlfriend was my best friend. Jason introduced us on a double date. Carley was married to his best friend, and he thought we’d hit it off. He was right. She was my matron of honor.”

“Ouch.” The story kept getting better and better. “The whole thing sounds suspicious from the start.”

“Maybe, but from what I understand, they weren’t involved before we got married,” Aila repeated what she’d been told. “They formed an attraction during the wedding planning and started sleeping together the day after we returned from our honeymoon. They were sexting the whole time Jason and I were in Aruba. Allen found the evidence on their home computer and Carley’s phone. I would have probably found the same on Jason’s if I’d looked.”

Bishop snorted like he believed that fairy tale as much as she did. Those two were probably banging like bunnies for years. Maybe Carley’s husband was on to them, and they needed to avert suspicions fast. The couple may have targeted Aila from the start. She’d been young, vulnerable, and ripe for the picking when she’d met her husband. The perfect cover to hide their infidelities. Who knew? What he did know was that nothing Aila shared sounded on the up and up.

“To make a long story short, Carley turned up pregnant, and her husband knew it wasn’t his. They weren’t intimate during the time the child was conceived. Allen was preoccupied with a career-making, high-profile murder case in another state at the time. Somehow, he stumbled across their texts and realized Jason was the father. All hell broke loose soon after.”

Aila closed her eyes, recalling the horrific day Jason and Carley confronted her in their kitchen. Her heart had shattered into a thousand pieces as she listened to the light spin they put on the affair. She couldn’t care less that it wasn’t serious. That they weren’t in love. She’d wanted to hurl. Contrary to what they seemed to think, none of that made it better.

Knowing they’d willfully ripped four lives apart on a whim had splintered everything she believed in. Even though he’d never admit it, Allen felt the same. The fact that their partners were only blowing off stream added insult to injury. They’d loved their spouses and been betrayed in the most heinous way possible by the people they were closest to.

“Given his family, his prominence in the community, and the fact that he was up for a judgeship, Allen had too much to lose if he swept everything under the rug, so the nastiness played out in the press. By the time the mess was over, our lives were destroyed, and none of the relationships survived the public turmoil. Carley miscarried the baby neither she nor Jason wanted, and I tried my best to dodge the media.” She hadn’t been successful. “The only one of us to exit the nightmare mostly unscathed was Allen. He got his judgeship, and I got the pity party everywhere I went. It didn’t take long to realize I had to start over, so I sold my house and accepted Corey’s offer to come to work for her here.”

“How old were you when all of that went down?” He knew she was barely thirty-one now, and that had to be pushing seven years ago. “You couldn’t have been more than twenty-five.”

“I wasn’t quite twenty-four.” Aila took a moment to get her emotions under control. “Jason and I didn’t make it three years from start to finish.”

That was three years too long, in his opinion.

“If it makes you feel any better, I think you’re an incredible woman to come from there to here in a relatively short time.” Nolan released her hand. “It takes a lot of fortitude to pull up roots and start over again. I know because I’ve done it. I also think it was easier for me since I didn’t have a scandal dogging my heels.”

He did have his family’s displeasure, but that hadn’t affected him much except in the financial arena. They weren’t that close to start with.

“You may be right. The upside was that my new employer was someone I worked well with. As much as I hated it, Corey retired from the hospital six months after I married Jason and opened her family practice here. At the time, I thought she was crazy to give up the status and pay.” Aila admitted. “Now, I feel differently. I’m grateful she provided me with a good job and a safe home when my life fell apart. Once I got here, I could see she was a lot happier than she was at the hospital. To be honest, we both are. I also quickly found out she hadn’t lost anything in respect or money. We’re both well paid to take care of people who really need us and want us here.”

They also volunteered their time every week at the free clinic in a neighboring city. Looking at her husband, Aila suspected he was the anonymous donor who’d recently given several pieces of expensive equipment to the clinic. The same donor who’d also made a huge donation to the general operating fund that covered the hiring of two much-needed nurses and a lab tech, not two months ago. While she’d like to know, Aila wasn’t asking. Bishop would tell her what he wanted her to know when he wanted her to know it. She could live with that.

“Which makes you happy.” Exactly why he wasn’t pressing her to quit work, even though her salary wasn’t necessary anymore. “Now that we’ve covered that, I have another question I’d like to ask you.”

CHAPTER FIFTEEN

“Go for it.” Aila decided she was enjoying the moment even if their conversation wasn’t all that comfortable. There was just something about talking things through with Bishop that felt incredibly intimate. Like they were forming a connection they didn’t have before. “I’ll do my best to answer.”

“How did you end up with Sofie in the first place?” Bishop asked the question he wanted answered. “I know you met Abby through Corey, and I know you became friends through that connection. I’m assuming that’s where you learned what Abby was contemplating. Maybe not from Abby herself, but from her doctor.”

“You assume right.” Aila agreed. “It’s a long story that I’m not sure you want to hear.”

“I think I do,” Bishop said quietly. “I can’t deny Sofie has thrived under your care, and I won’t. But that doesn’t mean I’m not interested in hearing exactly what kind of people have surrounded my child these first few years. While I like your boss and her husband, I think she’s done a few things I don’t like, and I’d like you to set the record straight.”

“Fine.” While she’d agree to his request, Aila wasn’t sure she wanted to tell her husband what he wanted to know. Especially given what he’d just said. “You already know I’ve worked with Corey for a long time.”

“I do.” Bishop studied his near-empty glass. “But that doesn’t explain why your old mentor would betray patient-doctor confidentiality.”

“Who said she did?” Aila asked. “Maybe Corey had Abby’s permission to approach me.”

“I don’t think so.” Bishop studied her closely. “Abby kept her private life private.”

“Maybe Corey thought the end justified the means.” Aila defended her mentor. “Maybe she did it for the well-being of everyone involved.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Bishop’s curiosity was piqued. “Whatever you meant to say, you can’t stop now.”

“That Abby wanted to end the pregnancy.” Aila took a sip of champagne from her mostly full glass. “She’d already decided to terminate. She came to Corey for recommendations on where she could get the procedure done, quickly and discreetly, without having to think about it.”

“Abby wouldn’t do that.” Bishop refused to accept what he was hearing. “It didn’t fit her belief system.”

“It doesn’t matter what she believed.” Aila looked him square in the eyes. “Whether you want to hear it or not, things change when it’s you. The woman Corey introduced me to was desperate and close to a total breakdown. She would have done anything to make it all go away. To her credit, Abby didn’t have a problem with being pregnant, and she wasn’t worried about anyone finding out.”

Angling slightly in the bed, Aila reached for Bishop’s hand, knowing her words were painful for him. As much as she hated sharing what he didn’t want to hear, her husband needed to know the truth. He’d come close to losing Sofie and, without Corey’s interference, he would have. Her boss wasn’t the enemy. Lightly squeezing his hand reassuringly, Aila resumed her story.

“What Abbey was most concerned about was raising a child she wasn’t emotionally equipped to handle. However, she wasn’t convinced she could live with the guilt of giving her child away either. That’s where I came in. We hit it off immediately. While Abby refused to contemplate adoption with anyone else, she was willing to give me a chance. By the time Sofie entered the world, everything was great.”

“How did your boss feel about that?” He wouldn’t like it very much if his assistant suddenly decided to follow such a life-altering path. “Being a single woman, adopting a baby would impact your work habits far more than it would a married woman.”

“I never kept my desires secret,” Aila informed him. “About six months after I came here, I told Corey I was ready to start adoption proceedings. My life was comfortable and financially stable. I was surrounded by close friends. There wasn’t any reason not to start the family I always wanted. That I was doing it alone wasn’t ideal, but I could make it work. I didn’t have a choice. I wasn’t sure I wanted to get married again. She understood that.”

Aila closed her eyes as she bit back the painful memory she wasn’t sure she wanted to share. Gazing into Bishop’s eyes, she knew she had to. He deserved the truth.

“Jason and I were trying to get pregnant when everything fell apart. I’m fortunate I didn’t conceive as much as it hurt at the time.” Aila looked away briefly before turning back to her husband. “I don’t want to think about what would have happened if we’d dragged another child into that mess. I don’t think I could have left that life behind. That I would have ever been free of Jason.”

Not considering she couldn’t keep her child from its father as much justification as she had for doing so. She would have tried to forgive him and make their marriage work. Somehow, she doubted Jason would have had the same dedication to either her or their child. His former actions proved otherwise.

“I don’t know what to say.” Except her husband was more of a cad than he’d thought. “I’m sorry you had to go through all that.”

“So am I.” Aila picked at the covers. “Anyway, Corey supported my choice, and Abby agreed to the adoption. It was like a weight suddenly lifted off her. She took good care of herself, enjoyed her pregnancy, stayed busy designing her new lines, and never looked back once the papers were signed. Abby trusted me to be a good mother, and I’ve done my best to live up to those expectations.”

“Abby wouldn’t have any complaints.” Bishop rested his hand over hers again. “Sofie’s a bright, happy little girl.”

She was also vibrant and pretty. Then again, she couldn’t be anything else with Abby for a mother. Leaning back, Bishop amended that thought. Aila deserved most of the credit for the way his daughter turned out. While she’d contributed nothing genetically, she bore more than a passing resemblance to Sofie, and she’d showered his child with time and affection.

“I think she is.” Aila agreed, looking away. “And I want her to stay that way. While I know this goes against everything we discussed, it would devastate Sofie if she learned you were seeing other women. She wouldn’t understand a marriage in name only or friends with benefits. As far as she’s concerned, we’re her fairy tale.”

“What exactly are you saying?” Bishop forced her to look at him. “That you want me to get rid of Susan for Sofie’s sake?”

He suspected there was more to it than that, but he wouldn’t force her hand yet.

“Yes, I am.” Aila couldn’t help the slight tremble in her voice. “Susan and anyone else you might be seeing.”

She didn’t care that he’d already said he dated one woman at a time. Things changed, and they both knew it.

“That’s not a problem.” Nolan released her chin. “I let Susan know we were over the day you agreed to marry me, and there isn’t anyone else. Somehow, the idea of having a wife and a girlfriend didn’t sit well with me. Forget what I initially thought.”

“Why didn’t you say anything?” Aila asked. “Surely you knew that was something I’d want to know.”

While he’d promised to get rid of Susan and he’d done that, he’d assumed Aila would know he’d kept his word without him saying anything more. He’d never given her any reason to think he would lie to her. While that was true, it wasn’t the truth. Not entirely, and he wasn’t proud of himself. Yes, he’d ended it with Susan, but the relationship wasn’t over. Not really.

They both knew all he had to do was snap his fingers and she’d be back in his life. He also knew it had nothing to do with love, or even real affection, and everything to do with the reality that none of her other lovers would, or could, do as much to advance her career as he did. For him, it would be a matter of convenience. Nothing about their relationship would have changed except the ring on his finger.

“Maybe I initially wanted to keep my options open in case things didn’t work out as we hoped. There’s a big difference between spending time with someone and living with them.” Bishop answered honestly. “Maybe I realized how stupid that was in light of what we were committing to.”

“Thank you.” Aila leaned over to kiss his cheek. “I appreciate that.”

“I don’t need to be thanked for doing what’s right.” Catching her off guard, Bishop brushed his lips lightly against hers, surprised when she kissed him back. “I knew I was courting disaster when I suggested it. However, I thought you’d turn me down if my proposal felt too real from the start.”

“You may be right,” Aila answered him honestly. “All that matters is she’s gone now.”

“She is,” Bishop reassured her. “Now that you’ve answered my questions, it’s your turn.”

“Okay.” Aila gently pushed the cake in his direction. “Tell me about you and Abby.”

He knew she meant the backstory that led to where they were now.

“I met Abby at a pub in London when we were both at university.” Bishop volunteered. “I was studying international corporate law. She was studying fashion design and dabbling in modeling. We had a brief fling that ended in friendship. One that didn’t die until she did. I don’t know what else you want to know.”

“You’ve already given me the abbreviated story of how Sofie came to be,” Aila said quietly. “Why don’t you give me the long version? I still can’t fathom Abby not telling you she was pregnant. Not knowing how overwhelmed she was by the whole situation. It doesn’t make sense. Abby even admitted she was close to the father. She just wouldn’t go into any details about him except to say he was a good man.”

“For all her insanity, Abby was a good woman, too,” Bishop said quietly. “A good, sensitive woman who hid her vulnerabilities under a free-spirited demeanor that caused her more pain than happiness.”

“I got that impression, too.” Aila reached out to touch his hand again. “I always felt some part of Abby wanted to keep Sofie, and that she would have if she didn’t believe she would be a terrible mother. I also think she would have been a great mom if she’d given herself the chance.”

“Perhaps, but Abby had a rough childhood.” Bishop volunteered. “Not that different from yours and mine.” He shrugged. “Her parents were more interested in their careers and climbing the social ladder than they were in their only child. Abby was ignored by her parents and indulged by her caretakers. She had everything money could buy without any of the guidance and affection she needed for healthy emotional development.”

Aila nodded as pieces fell into place.

“Her mother was a famous portraitist from a long line of famous artists, and her father was an investment banker and a member of the minor nobility. While I know they loved her in their way, she was raised by servants for most of her life. From what I could tell, spending time with Abby was an afterthought between social engagements for most of her life.

Her parents packed her off to a strict boarding school as soon as she was old enough to go. She saw them even less than she had before. As for the rest of her relatives, all they care about is money.” That was the impression she’d been given as well. “In Abby’s defense, I’m sure she didn’t think she could give her child what she’d never had. She was too much like her parents in too many ways. In this case, I think she was probably right. I’m not sure Abby could leave her work long enough to be a parent. She was self-absorbed and driven to create.”

“You knew her better than I did,” Aila admitted. “So maybe you’re right.”

“I am.” Something about Bishop’s tone conveyed that his words were more than hearsay. “As much as you don’t want to hear it, Sofie is better off with you.”

“I’ll take your word for it.” Aila smiled. “I do know I love her more than anything. What I can’t reconcile is the man I know now with the man who fathered Sofie. I can’t see you ever making the mistake that led to your daughter’s conception. You’re much too disciplined.”

“Normally, I’d agree with you, but we both know I’m not a liar.” Bishop reluctantly admitted. “I should have bowed out of attending that event, and I knew it. However, I was the main sponsor, so my presence was vital. Calling out would have seriously impacted donations, and that children’s hospital was a charity I couldn’t let down.”

Glancing at Aila, he wasn’t surprised she was hanging on his every word.

“You already know I was having serious problems with a business rival. Even though I was winning, combating Bradley’s underhanded moves was a round-the-clock job. Anticipating his next move and staying one or two steps ahead of him took all my time and energy.” Bishop admitted. “I’d been up three days straight with a few power naps here and there when that event rolled around. Fortunately, I function well on little sleep, so no one knew how deprived I was. Not even Abby.”

“You were already compromised before the evening started.” Aila closed her eyes and shook her head as the pieces gradually fell in place. “And I know Abby was facing challenges of her own.”

“Alfonse had been carrying on a casual affair with his married assistant for years.” Bishop quietly supplied. “He thought Abby would turn a blind eye to the whole situation as long as he remained faithful once they were married. Unfortunately, she couldn’t do that. She ended their engagement when she was suddenly confronted with proof of his infidelity. As much as I’d hoped Abbey didn’t love the weasel, I think she did. The very fact that she was willing to marry that bastard says a lot about her feelings.”

“I didn’t know any of that.” Aila leaned back into her pillow. “But it explains a lot.”

“I guess it does.” Bishop agreed. “I’m ashamed to admit I broke my own rules that night. I had several drinks over the evening, and Abby did the same. While neither of us was drunk, we’d had enough to impair our judgment. We were both vulnerable and hurting; not the best way to be when your defenses are down. As the evening progressed, one thing led to another. Your imagination can fill in the rest.”

“Yes, it can.” Aila agreed. “Although I don’t want to go there.”

The thought of her husband sleeping with another woman didn’t sit well, even if that encounter was in the past.

“The first stupid thing I did was drink too much. The second was bedding down with a woman I didn’t want because she was there. I don’t even recall who made the first move.” He thought it was Abby, but that didn’t change the fact that he hadn’t turned her down. “The third was not using protection, as I always do.”

Considering the hollowness of his relationships, he’d never been willing to take chances with his health or his resources.

“I just assumed Abby was on something, and she may have been. Her protection may have failed. What I did know was she didn’t want children any more than I did, and it hadn’t been that long since her engagement fell apart, so I operated on that assumption.” Bishop’s harsh laugh was self-deprecating. “I’d never taken that for granted before, and I haven’t since. Unfortunately, once was all it took to cost the first five years of my daughter’s life.”

Seeing the pain in his eyes, Aila lightly rubbed his arm.

“To make a long story short, we woke up the next morning and realized we’d done something we didn’t want to repeat in the light of day.” They’d both regretted their foolish actions immediately. “We were better off as friends. We always had been. We ordered room service, and I drove her back to her studio the next morning as though nothing had happened. We made plans to have dinner the next time she passed through town and left it at that. There was nothing unusual about how things ended except the fact that we’d slept together.”

“I see.” Aila was amazed at how calm Bishop was recounting his story. “I don’t know what to say.”

“There’s nothing to say except we both know that’s not how things played out. As well as Abby knew me, she made a mistake in keeping her pregnancy a secret. While I understand her reasoning, it wasn’t right.” Bishop admitted. “Yes, I was going through a complicated time with my business. That she didn’t want to add to my burdens is admirable. But she still shouldn’t have done what she did, and I wouldn’t have let her if I’d known. I didn’t, so her disappearance was standard MO when she started a new collection.”

“I’m assuming you saw Abby the next time she passed through town?”

“I did, a couple of months later,” Bishop confirmed. “We had dinner at Serenade. She wanted me to know she was dropping off the grid to work on a new collection, and she’d call me the next time she came up for air. She seemed fine, and she looked great. She’d put on about five pounds or so, but she didn’t look pregnant. Considering Abbey stayed at least ten pounds underweight, the extra weight looked good on her.”

“I’m sure you didn’t tell her that.” He wouldn’t dare. “But she was pregnant when you saw her.”

“I guess she was, and she probably knew it.” Bishop shook his head. “She should have told me, but she didn’t. She knew I’d urge her to keep the baby if she did. From what you’ve said, she’d already decided to terminate.”

“She had.”

“That’s so Abby.” Bishop shook his head again. “She dealt with her issues by not dealing with them. Added to that, she was still licking her wounds from the broken engagement. It didn’t help that Kelsey left her husband to move in with Al two weeks after she broke things off. I’m sure that wound was still raw.”

The story just kept getting better and better.

“Since she called me every few weeks when she came up for air like she’d done for years, there was nothing to be suspicious of.”

Nodding, Aila accepted his words.

“She stayed in touch, but she never told you she was pregnant.” Aila found that unbelievable. It was a side of Abby she hadn’t known. “Never shared the changes she was going through.”

“Not a word.” Looking back, Bishop realized he’d give anything if she had. “The next time I saw Abby was at Fashion Week the following year. Isabella was in a show for a major Italian designer, and Abby had several shows, so I had to be there.” From the slight moue Aila didn’t know she made, she knew Izzy was a fling. “From her appearance, nothing had changed. She was still as slim and elegant as ever. She was also more excited at the positive reception her new lines were getting than she usually was.”

Now he knew why. She’d had the extra stress of going through a pregnancy alone in addition to the usual pressures of designing several new lines at once. Burdens she wouldn’t have had if she’d shared that she carried his child. Couple or not, he would have been by her side. He would have helped her through the rough spots. Sofie was his responsibility, too. From the moment of conception. No, not responsibility. Love. That mischievous, dark-haired imp was his child, too, and he loved her. More than he’d ever thought possible. He loved her now, and he would have loved her then.

“I had no idea Abby was that devious.” While she’d been honest up to a point, she’d been incredibly dishonest too. “So, you were telling the truth. The first of you having any inkling Sofie existed….”

Bishop cut her off.

“It was when Jackson showed up unannounced at my home in Scotland in the middle of my first vacation in ten years.” Bishop started realizing that it was true. “Jax flew over to let me know Abby died suddenly in that accident.”

Aila nodded, refusing to imagine what was going through Abbey’s head in those final moments of life.

“He also told me about my daughter.” Bishop continued quietly. “And about the woman who’d adopted her. I didn’t believe him at first. Not until I read the letter Abby wrote soon after Sofie’s birth. The one saying that if I were reading this, she would be dead. It still doesn’t make sense how Abby could go on with her life as though she never had a child without giving me the option of being a part of that child’s life.”

“It wasn’t like that,” Aila said softly. “While they never met in person, I sent Abby updates on Sophie several times a year. She always knew what was happening with her daughter. She wanted to know. That was part of the adoption agreement. I made the offer and she accepted.

Abby wasn’t maternal, but she loved Sophie in her way. Don’t ever doubt that. She also knew the day might come when Sophie would want to meet her biological parents. She was open to that possibility and hoped you would be as well.”

“That’s good to know.” Bishop found the statement strangely comforting. “I would have been. While I don’t know how things would have played out with my friendship with Abby when that had happened, I do know I’d want to know my daughter.”

“She would have wanted to know Sofie, too.” Aila scooted a little closer to him. “And I’m sure you would have forgiven her with time, like you already have.”

“Maybe.” He wasn’t so sure. “We’ll never know, will we?”

“I guess not.” Aila rose from the bed and pulled a large box from beneath the mattress. “This is for you.” She climbed back on the bed and plopped the package down beside him. “I know it’s not the same as being there, but I’ve made one for every year Sofie’s been alive just in case.” She watched Nolan lift the lid to expose the baby book inside. “You can start with the sonograms and the medical records. I kept everything I could get my hands on for Sofie. I wanted her to know who and what she was and how much she was loved and wanted from the start. When you came into our lives, I changed my mind. I decided you needed this more.”

Flipping through the album, Bishop realized Aila couldn’t have kept a more meticulous record if she’d been documenting her pregnancy. In a way, she was. While Sofie wasn’t the child of her body, she was the child of her heart. So, she’d lived the experience vicariously through the birth mother. Clearly, with Abby’s permission, she wouldn’t have posed for the various photographs highlighting her ever-changing body.

From what he could see, Abby’s friendship with Aila was real. If it hadn’t been, this record of Sofie’s life wouldn’t exist. Not this intimately. While her free-spirited, bubbly, public persona was fair game, Abby was intensely secretive about the tiny part of herself that she kept to herself. She’d willingly given the press enough fodder over the years that they’d left her alone in her “creative moments.” She’d found that a small price to pay for her privacy.

“This is wonderful.” Bishop closed the cover, thinking that wonderful couldn’t begin to express how he was feeling. “Thank you for sharing with me.”

“There are five more albums in the bookcase downstairs on the top shelf.” Aila calmly informed him. “One for every birthday. Feel free to look at them whenever you want. They’re yours.”

“Thank you.” Nolan put the album back in the box and shoved it under the bed. “I’ll put that where it belongs in the morning.”

He’d also take the time to study at least one more of those albums before he started work.

“Sounds like a plan.” Aila was glad her gift had gone over so well. “Now, I’m going to brush my teeth and go to bed. I have to be at work early tomorrow to help with a procedure, and you have a call coming in from Italy.”

“A very important call.” Bishop agreed. “Go brush your teeth so I can brush mine.”

“I’ll do that.” Swinging out of bed, Aila felt his glance lingering as she headed for the bathroom. “I know I told you, but I want to tell you again, thank you for the beautiful gown.”

“You’re welcome.” Bishop’s eyes swept appreciatively over her silk-clad form. “Thank you for wearing this. You look lovely.” He rose from the bed to walk over to her. “I won’t lie. I expected to find that box unopened and you in your bunny pajamas. I’m glad I didn’t.”

Leaning in, he threaded his fingers through her hair as he captured her lips in a demanding kiss. Not feeling any resistance to his overture, Bishop ran his hand lightly over her back as he pulled her closer, knowing Aila could feel everything she was doing to him. Pulling back, he rested his forehead lightly against hers for a few moments before brushing his lips against her cheek in defeat. “I know Sofie gave them to you, and I know they’re cute, but highly inappropriate for a wedding night.”

Catching Bishop’s knowing smirk as he sat on the edge of the bed, Aila snorted as she pulled her gown back in place. That man knew exactly what he was doing to them both, and he didn’t have a penitent bone in his body. The only consolation was that he was suffering as much as she was. Closing the bathroom door behind her, she was convinced with hindsight that she should have stuck to her guns and worn the bunnies instead. She’d be a lot less frustrated if she had.

CHAPTER SIXTEEN

Opening her eyes to fading darkness, Aila knew it was early to be so wide awake. Rolling over, she studied the man sleeping by her side. As much as she longed to touch him, she wouldn’t. He needed his rest. The weeks since their wedding had been insane for both of them. In addition to integrating a husband into her daily routine, the office was slammed with the start of the annual flu season. As for Bishop, he was preoccupied with ironing out any last-minute wrinkles in his upcoming tour of Switzerland. The one he left for later today.

While she didn’t know the specifics, she knew a lot was riding on the two-prong visit. Not so much in the hospitality sector, but in tech. Everything had to go well from start to finish. Failure wasn’t an option on either front. As a result, her husband had been edgy for days. Not in a short-tempered, ugly way. More in that challenge thrumming under the surface manner that had everyone excited in a good way. She couldn’t wait to discover how the story ended, even if that meant Bishop had to leave to write it.

“Good morning.” Strong fingers stroked her cheek.

“Morning.” Aila laughed softly. “I didn’t mean to wake you.”

“You didn’t.” Bishop tucked a few dark hairs behind her ear. “I’m usually awake by now.”

“I guess you are.” Now she knew how early his day started. “You’re always downstairs when I wake up.”

“Usually.” Bishop agreed. “But not today.”

He wanted to spend the time he had before he left with her. Feeling her leg curve lightly around his hip, Bishop pulled Aila into a gentle kiss. While time and familiarity had lulled them into more sensual teasing and touching, intimacy usually started with the whisper brush of lip against lip. While they’d yet to have that wedding night, they’d progressed far beyond lighthearted, teasing touches. He’d become intimately acquainted with his wife’s taste and the breathy sounds she made in the throes of passion over the last few weeks. She could say the same about him. While they’d yet to pass the point of no return, it was coming soon. Whether they were ready or not.

“Aila,” Bishop pulled his lips from her neck, suddenly aware she’d managed to remove his pajama bottoms while he’d been committing her every dip and valley to memory.

“Bishop.” Aila pulled her sleep shirt over her head as she rolled across him to straddle his lap.

“Aila.” Bishop closed his eyes, praying for more than the heavy petting they’d indulged in for the last few nights. “You’re killing me.”

Opening his eyes to her naughty laugh, Bishop was surprised by the determination on her face.

“I don’t think so.” Capturing his eyes with hers, Aila’s body clenched in anticipation as his hands rose to grip her hips. “Damn.”

She cursed softly as the blare of the clock brought them back to their senses in the nick of time. Hanging her head, Aila briefly mourned the moment as she reached over to smack the snooze bar. Rolling to the side, she watched Bishop turn the alarm off before he shot her a rueful glance. He didn’t have to say a word. They both knew their time was up. Bishop couldn’t risk missing his flight.

“I’ll fix breakfast.” Aila slid out of bed and pulled her sleep shirt over her head. “You need to shower.”

“Sounds like a plan.” Rising, Bishop gave her a brief kiss before heading for the shower, well aware her eyes were on his naked bum.

Shaking her head, Aila headed for the stairs, torn between gratitude for the interruption and lamenting what should have been. The last thing they needed was to lose their heads before a long separation. They’d both weather the frustration better, whether Bishop believed it or not right now.

Checking on her sleeping daughter, Aila silently closed Sofie’s bedroom door before padding into the kitchen to grind fresh coffee beans and crack some eggs. Grabbing a pack of bacon, she popped several slices in the air fryer and buttered slices of bread for toast. She’d pour the eggs into the frying pan when she heard Bishop on the landing. In the meantime, she’d pour a mug of coffee, add a little cream, and watch the birds out the kitchen window. If her mind wandered back over the way she’d straddled her husband with intent, who could blame her? Bishop was a good-looking man.

Snapping out of her reverie at the sound of a heavy tread on the stairs, Aila filled his favorite mug before pressing it into Bishop’s hand. Accepting his kiss of thanks, she watched him sit at the counter, laptop in hand. While earlier was a bit disconcerting, this was a familiar routine she’d grown to cherish. It was also one that was about to change. From what she gathered, Nolan’s two-week trip to Switzerland had been extended by at least another week. Possibly more.

While the reasons for the extension were all good, none of that mattered to a little girl. Sofie was devastated that her father was leaving so soon. She couldn’t care less about mergers and takeovers or golden opportunities. All she knew was her Daddy wouldn’t be home to tuck her in for far too long. Aila felt the same. She’d become used to Nolan’s warm presence in their bed. She’d miss him terribly. He would feel the same. Even if their marriage hadn’t progressed as far as her husband would like, they’d gotten much closer over the past six weeks.

Close enough, they slept wrapped around each other at night. Close enough, they were comfortable with the heat between them. Close enough, they’d gotten carried away with their heavy petting and almost made love. Fortunately, the curse of the alarm clock brought them to their senses.

Shaking the phantom impression of Bishop’s hardness beneath her heat Aila reminded herself neither of them wanted to cross that line prematurely. Nothing good would come from it. Desperate acts rarely led to anything good. Nolan’s words. Not hers. But she agreed with the sentiment. All of that aside, she couldn’t imagine the next few weeks without him. Her nights would be lonely and cold and deeply frustrating.

Carrying the plate of eggs, bacon, and toast across the kitchen, she set her offering on the counter beside her husband before wrapping her arms around him. Pressing into his back, Ayla silently conveyed all the feelings she wasn’t ready to vocalize. Feelings she’d yet to identify and didn’t want to know.

As much as she’d deny it, a tiny part of her accepted the truth long ago. She’d fallen for Bishop almost from the start. She’d been fighting her growing emotions ever since. It didn’t matter that he seemed to feel the same. She’d thought Jason loved her. She’d been wrong. She couldn’t afford to be wrong again. Not with a child involved. If divorcing Jason was a nightmare, leaving Bishop would be a hundred times worse. Publicly and privately.

Feeling Bishop shift, she didn’t expect him to turn in his chair to fully engulf her in his arms. Burying her face in his chest, Aila inhaled his woodsy scent as she savored his comforting presence. He didn’t have to say a word for her to know he didn’t want to leave any more than she wanted him to. While she regretted the interruption this morning, she wasn’t ready to go all the way. To take him within her body. Not really. She wanted to have her cake and eat it, too. To openly flirt with emotional suicide. To go “this far” and no farther. To pleasure each other without the two fully becoming one, although they’d almost blown it this morning. For what it was worth, Nolan understood her reticence and seemed willing to keep the imaginary wall between them for the present.

“If it helps, I don’t want to go any more than you and Sofie want me to.” Strong fingers cupped her breasts through her top. “I’d reschedule if I could.”

Pushing his plate aside, Bishop glanced at the clock, noting his daughter wouldn’t be up until Aila woke her. She’d sleep through her alarm if she had one, so there wasn’t any danger of her interrupting them. There wasn’t any reason to hold back.

“I know.” He wouldn’t say it if it weren’t true. “We’ll be here when you get home.”

“I like the sound of that.” Kissing her, Bishop lifted her to straddle his lap. “I’ll be counting the days.”

“Me, too.” Closing her eyes, Aila gasped when his fingers slipped beneath her panties to stroke her intimately. “What are you doing?”

“Creating the perfect memory to pull me through the next few weeks.” Grabbing the hem of her tee, he pulled her sleep shirt over her head before burying his face in her naked breasts. “Let me pleasure you.”

Throwing her head back, Aila gave in to his sensual assault. It wasn’t long before she was humming her completion. Brushing her hair from her face, Bishop pulled her into a passionate kiss before he pulled her sleep shirt back in place.

“Nothing about this is fair to you.”

“I’ll be the judge of that.” Bishop rested his hand against her hip. “This wasn’t about me. While I meant what I said, I also wanted to leave you with something to think about.”

“I think you succeeded there.” Her mate didn’t do anything without calculating the probable outcome. “And you know it. I need to see what’s keeping Sofie. She’s probably hiding somewhere, hoping that if she doesn’t see you leave, you won’t go.”

Right. They both knew Sofie was still asleep. She wouldn’t crack an eyelid until Aila made her.

“I wish it were that simple.” Bishop looked at his congealed eggs and decided he’d grab something on the way to the airport. Maybe he’d be hungry by then. Something about this trip wasn’t sitting well with him. Probably because he didn’t want to go in the first place. He wouldn’t if he could get out of it.

“Unfortunately, this meeting was a year in the making, so I can’t renege on my commitments. It would be at least another year before all of us could get together again. Our schedules are that hectic. I could cancel the rest of my meetings, but I’d lose some opportunities that might not come around again. As much as I don’t want to go, I don’t have a choice. Not if I want to get in on that tech merger and those last three resorts to complete the chain.”

While the tech merger was the main reason he went to Switzerland, completing the resort chain he owned with Roland would be a major accomplishment. It had taken close to ten years to bring this deal to fruition, and he couldn’t let it go. Aila didn’t expect such a sacrifice, and Bishop knew it. However, he wanted her to know he regretted the timing just as much as she did. Their lives were coming together as a family much better than either of them had anticipated. He hated being the one to break their momentum, but it couldn’t be helped. Even if his absence caused them to lose ground, he was confident they would regain it quickly when he returned.

“I know.” Aila felt his hands resting against her hips. “I’ll miss you.”

“I’ll miss you, too.” Bishop was mildly surprised at how natural touching her felt. Like they’d been married for years. “Maybe you’ll think about giving me a welcome home gift I’ll never forget.”

Closing her eyes, Aila contemplated his words. While she could pretend she didn’t know what he meant, she wouldn’t insult either of them that way. What almost happened this morning had reawakened thoughts and feelings she thought she’d laid to rest. Longings that had nothing to do with the physical, even though desire was a very real part of it. She’d do more than think about his suggestion while he was gone, and she knew it. She’d give the possibility serious consideration even if she rejected it in the end.

“I’ll think about it.” She conceded. “I’m not making any promises, but I’ll consider what you’re asking.”

“You do that.” Bishop pulled her into a tender kiss. “Whatever you decide, we’re in this together, so I’ll wait until you’re ready.”

And he would until he decided Aila’s baggage was bigger than they were. Until that happened, he had to believe she’d realize his feelings went far deeper than lust. Once that happened, he’d be free to love her the way he wanted to. The way he’d never loved another woman. Until then, he’d remain a patient, if frustrated, man.

“Thank you.” Touching his cheek, Aila’s kiss was sweet, trusting, and comfortable, reflecting how Bishop made her feel. “As much as I don’t want to say it, you need to go, or you’ll be late for the airport. I still need to get Sofie up to say goodbye, and you need to get your coat before you forget it. Switzerland’s going to be cold this time of year, even if we’re unseasonably warm.”

“I think you’re right.” Disentangling from his wife, Bishop headed for the hall closet to do as he was told. “I’m going to put my luggage in the car while you’re getting Sofie.”

“Sounds like a plan.” Aila headed for the stairs, knowing Sofie would never forgive them if she didn’t get to tell her Daddy goodbye. “I’m off to tickle a little girl’s feet.”

Watching his wife head up the stairs, Bishop carried his luggage to the car on autopilot. He wasn’t pleased to realize, for the first time, he wasn’t eagerly anticipating a business trip. Not in any way. He didn’t feel the usual bloom of excitement unfolding in his chest the closer he got to take off. He felt a touch of despair instead. He didn’t want to leave his wife and daughter. Having Sofie and Aila in his life was a greater joy than he’d anticipated.

If that wasn’t enough to keep him home, he and Aila were getting more intimate with every passing day. He loved waking up with her in his arms. He loved their make-out sessions that grew more daring as their feelings intensified. Contrary to what he’d believed, Bishop loved every minute of married life. Even the not-so-pleasant bumps in the road that they hit occasionally.

He probably shouldn’t be surprised by any of this. They’d hit it off from the start. They’d been physically attracted from the start. They’d committed to working together from the start, and they’d stuck to their plans from the start. But that didn’t mean he wasn’t unsettled to realize he felt like he’d known his wife forever.

What it did mean was he wouldn’t repeat his father’s mistake. He wouldn’t neglect his family. They already meant too much to him. Closing the car door, he bounded up the steps and entered the house. If he didn’t miss his guess, Sofie should be coming down the stairs right about now.

“Daddy!” Bishop caught the pint-sized projectile still warmly ensconced in blue bunny-footed pajamas. “Mommy says you’re leaving on a jet plane.”

“Something like that, Sleepy Head.” He ran his fingers through his daughter’s serious bedhead, gently smoothing her messy mop. “Are you going to miss me?”

“Oh, yeah,” Sofie promised. “Mommy will, too.”

“Good.” Bishop glanced at Aila. “Because I’ll miss both of you.”

Leaning down to lift his daughter in his arms, Bishop captured Aila’s eyes with his, hoping she could read all the emotions he was feeling. Clearly, from the way she suddenly looked away, he was doing a better job than he thought. Turning his attention to Sofie, he gently ruffled her hair as she rattled off all the exciting things she wanted to do while he was gone. As much as he wished he could spend these last precious moments adoring his wife, he wouldn’t neglect his only child. He’d unintentionally done that for five long years, and it wasn’t happening again.

“Hey, Kiddo, we need to let Daddy go.” Aila reached up to take her daughter from her father’s arms. “If we don’t, that jet plane will leave without him, and that won’t be a good thing.”

“No, it won’t.” Glancing at his watch, Bishop realized his time was up. “As much as I hate to say it, I have to go. I’ll call both of you as soon as I’m in the hotel.”

Bussing his daughter’s forehead, Bishop turned his attention to her mother. Leaning in to kiss Aila’s lips, he nodded at both his girls before walking out the door. Standing on the porch, Bishop closed his eyes, committing that final image to memory. He wasn’t sure his exit could be more perfect than that.

As sleepy as she was, Sofie’s eyes were alight with mischief, and Aila’s shone with a love she wasn’t aware she felt. Abandoning his observations, Bishop turned his thoughts towards getting to the airport on time and started the car. Pulling out of the driveway, he glanced at the clock, pleased to realize he’d still arrive early, even allowing for rush hour traffic.

CHAPTER SEVENTEEN

Glancing at the clock, Aila wondered when her husband was finally coming home. While she and Sofie functioned fine without him, they’d missed him terribly. Life went on, and they muddled through their familiar routines on autopilot. But it wasn’t the same. Not when they were used to having Bishop in the middle of everything.

Thankfully, all of that was over now. She’d thought it was over hours ago. She’d been wrong. Bishop had called early this morning to say he was on his way home. Barring anything unforeseen, he should arrive in New York on time and be home two hours later. Unfortunately, that didn’t happen, so he’d missed the welcome home dinner she’d spent most of the day preparing. Instead, his flight was delayed indefinitely due to inclement weather.

Aila was overjoyed when he called a few hours later to let her know the weather had cleared and his flight was boarding soon. Whatever that meant. While coming in much later than planned, he should be home soon. She and Sofie had seconded that. Bishop also promised to update her as soon as he knew anything worth knowing before he hung up.

He’d finally done that three hours ago when he’d called to let her know he was leaving New York. Finally, by her calculations, it should take him around an hour and a half to reach the airport and another hour or so to drive home, depending on traffic. Glancing at the clock, Aila realized his key should be turning in the lock in another half hour or so.

Putting the last pot away, she headed for the den to check on Sofie. They’d completed her reading assignment right after they’d arrived home from school. Her daughter had then eaten her dinner and had her bath at the regular time. She’d spent the hours since watching movies and waiting for her dad to come home. Unfortunately, time was up. Sofie was already a couple of hours past her bedtime, but Nolan wasn’t home. Looking at her child fighting to keep her eyes open, it was time to call it a night.

“Sofie, it’s way past your bedtime.” Watching the ending credits to her daughter’s favorite fairy tale, she was glad the movie was over. “Your dad’s caught in traffic, or he’d be home by now.” She refused to consider anything else. “I’m sure he’ll check on you when he gets home, or you can see him in the morning. Now, it’s bedtime. You can hardly keep your eyes open.”

“Okay.” Sofie nodded, taking her mom at her word. “Tell Dad I tried to stay awake, but I got too sleepy.”

“I’ll do that.” Aila turned the television off before following Sofie out of the room. “Hit the sack, Kiddo. I’ve still got things to do.”

Following her daughter up the stairs, Aila watched her brush her teeth one last time before crawling into bed. Tucking the covers under Sofie’s chin, she kissed her forehead and turned the light off. Forget the bedtime story; her child was done before her head touched the pillow. She hadn’t even told her goodnight. So much for the whole staying up until daddy gets home routine. She was still too young to do it.

Ducking into their bedroom, Aila stood in front of her closet searching for an elegant black silk gown and robe she’d never worn. She didn’t know why she owned the set. She’d never worn it. Probably because she’d broken down a couple of years ago and decided to treat herself to something frivolous she wouldn’t normally buy. Something she could slip into to make herself feel pretty. Other women did, so why couldn’t she? Right. She didn’t do “feel pretty” things. Whatever her original intent, she’d never worn either piece, but tonight felt different. That gown was calling her name, and she was answering it.

Quickly undressing, she pulled the garment over her head. Smoothing the fabric in place, she glanced at her reflection and decided it was money well spent. While not as luxurious as the set Bishop left for their wedding night, the body-skimming lines of the gown emphasized her curves nicely, while spaghetti straps, lace insets, and thigh-high slits displayed provocative glimpses of lightly tanned skin. Stepping back, there was something undeniably sexy about the bright-eyed, tousle-haired woman staring back at her. Hanging the robe back in her closet, Aila refused to ponder what she thought she was doing with her silken display. Right now, she wanted to feel. Thinking would come later.

Walking back downstairs, she poured a glass of red wine and grabbed her newest medical journal. There was an article she needed to read on gestational diabetes, and now was the perfect time to do it. With any luck, she’d finish before Nolan arrived. If she didn’t, she could always finish Friday night after she came home from work.,

Turning her attention to the task at hand, she was amazed to realize it had taken her three-quarters of an hour to digest the article when she finally closed the pages and glanced at the clock. Rising to her feet, she put the magazine away and washed her glass. It was past time Nolan was home. She was starting to get concerned that he wasn’t. Then again, he could have stopped by the office en route. That wasn’t outside the realm of possibility.

Turning at the sound of a key in the lock, Aila headed for the foyer. Opening the door, she helped her husband pull his suitcases inside before taking his coat and hanging it in the hall closet. He looked tired. He should. He’d capped off a draining business trip with a long flight fraught with unexpected interruptions. The first he’d taken since their wedding. As much as she’d taken his warning with a grain of salt, her husband hadn’t lied about the frequent traveling or the long absences. He’d reassured her that his schedule would lighten sometime next year once he’d fulfilled long-standing commitments. In the interim, there was nothing he could do to change any of that. However, Connie already had orders to schedule future appointments around family time and not family time around business. They just had to make it through the next few hectic months.

From what she could gather, he had at least three more business trips planned for the next six months. Hopefully, they’d be shorter than this one. Sofie didn’t like him being gone for so long. She could only imagine how her daughter would feel if her father didn’t live with them. Sofie and her dad had become much too close, much too fast. She’d quickly become a daddy’s girl, and Bishop doted on her. If she had any lingering doubts about the wisdom of marrying her husband, this reassured her that she’d done the best possible thing for Sofie. She refused to consider whether it was best for her. That didn’t enter the equation. Not where her daughter was concerned.

“Welcome home.” Aila laughed softly when Nolan repeated his behavior from the morning he left by engulfing her in a tight hug. “We missed you.”

Sofie aside, she’d missed him more than she thought possible. She didn’t like waking up to an empty bed every morning, knowing he wasn’t around. Her life was much too lonely without him. Like her daughter, she’d slipped into a comfortable routine much faster than expected. She was already far too used to starting her day with freshly brewed coffee and casual kisses. With Nolan gone, she’d had instant coffee and Sofie snuggles instead.

“I missed you, too.” Bishop leaned in to brush his lips against hers. “A month is too long to be away.”

“Yes, it is.” Aila agreed. “Sofie wanted you back before you were gone.”

“What about you?” Bishop took a step back and stared into her eyes. “Did you want me back before I was gone, too?”

“Would you like it if I said yes?” Aila observed his nod and rewarded him for his trouble. “I didn’t want you gone either. We barely had a chance to get settled before you left.”

“No, we didn’t.” Bishop agreed. “Unfortunately, I didn’t have a choice. That was a long-standing commitment I had to honor. While I hate that the meetings ran longer than planned, I’m home now. I guess Sofie’s already in bed since I don’t see her anywhere.”

“She passed out about nine-thirty.” Aila agreed. “She fought as long as she could, but she lost the battle a while ago.”

“Then I’ll see her in the morning.” Bishop’s voice reflected his disappointment at missing his daughter, but he wasn’t about to wake her. “So, I guess that means we’re free for the rest of the night.” Stepping back to study her, he saw confusion flicker through her eyes. “When I said I missed you, I meant it. I’ve missed you in every way.”

Feeling him draw her into his arms again, Aila was surprised when Nolan kissed her with more emotion than she’d ever felt from him. Like they were a real couple reuniting after a long separation. Like he’d felt a fraction of the loss she’d felt without his presence. Ignoring the cautionary voice in her head, she opened her mouth beneath his.

Swept into his arms, she didn’t resist when Nolan carried her upstairs to their room. Or when he pulled her gown over her head. Nor did she protest when he laid her gently on the bed and covered her body with his. Feeling him settle intimately between her thighs, Aila knew she wouldn’t turn him away. Not tonight. It didn’t matter that she’d repelled his overtures in the past. This was different. It felt real in ways those other times hadn’t.

Besides, she was tired of playing it safe. Tired of denying her feelings. Her desires. She had a ring on her finger. They both did, and the rings matched. There was nothing to stop them from taking their relationship to the next level. Nothing to stop her from unbuttoning his shirt and tearing it from his body exactly as she was doing. Running her hands over his chest and back, Aila savored the feel of hard muscle and smooth skin beneath her palms as she made her way to his belt and what lay beneath.

She and Bishop had grown much closer in the weeks before his departure for Switzerland. Close enough that they held hands all the time, and kissed goodbye in public. Nothing too steamy. But friendlier than the casual buss you’d give a buddy. Somehow, she wasn’t surprised they’d combusted so quickly. They were attracted from the start. Neither of them denied it. They just hadn’t acted on that attraction. It was much too soon.

However, it seemed the situation had changed, and too soon didn’t matter anymore. She’d known the moment of reckoning was coming soon, even as she denied the possibility. They’d taken the teasing a little too far the morning Bishop left. Tender touches had quickly escalated to heavy petting, which abruptly ended with the obnoxious blare of her alarm clock. Quickly breaking apart, they’d gone about their morning as though they hadn’t been on the brink of penetration when they were so rudely interrupted. Right. Ignoring the elephant in the room had done nothing but add fuel to the fire.

Propping on her elbows, Aila watched Bishop undress before he turned towards the bed to study her with the same intensity she studied him. Sitting up, she rose from the bed to walk over to him. Silently reaching up to pull his head down to hers, she rose on her toes to lightly kiss his lips before taking his hand in a silent invitation to come back to bed. Following her lead, Bishop kissed her hand before walking around to his side of the bed. Lying down beside her, he lightly rubbed Aila’s arm, knowing instinctively that she wanted to recreate the morning he left, and he was fine with that. Imagining how that encounter should have ended was all that pulled him through the weeks without her.

“I like that gown.” Bishop trailed his finger over her chest. “You looked beautiful standing there waiting for me to walk through the door.”

He’d been pleasantly shocked by her attire. While not as expensive as his wedding night gift, the gown was infinitely more provocative. He’d appreciate how the fabric flowed so lovingly over every curve before he ripped it from her body.

“I’m glad.” Davida flashed him a startled gaze at the feel of his breath against her core. “Bishop…”

Closing her eyes, she surrendered to his ministrations, knowing she’d opened a Pandora’s box not easily closed.

###

Dragging a hand through his hair, Nolan glanced at his sleeping wife, enjoying her messily tousled hair and the elegant sweep of her naked back. Taking a deep breath, he knew, as much as he’d imagined this moment, he’d made a serious misstep. While he didn’t regret making love to her, he couldn’t say the same for Aila.

The woman was too damaged, and their relationship too new, for her to believe declarations of affection from him. Self-doubt wouldn’t let her. She would never believe he’d fallen for her somewhere along the way. Not only fallen but fallen hard. He didn’t believe it himself. Not really. Suspecting the “l-word” and accepting it were two different things.

Aila would put it down to the need to scratch an itch, or absence making the heart grow fonder. She’d throw in the fact they’d all but had sex the morning before he left. While he didn’t doubt sexual frustration played a part in her greeting him at the door in that sexy black gown that left little to the imagination, the same wasn’t true for him. He controlled his libido. His libido didn’t control him. Or it hadn’t until he’d put that ring on her finger. Now, he wasn’t so sure.

Taking a deep, cleansing breath, Bishop had a hard time getting his mind around the idea that his feelings were more than mere affection. That he was even contemplating a word not in his vocabulary where a woman was concerned was disconcerting. That he might feel that way about some introverted small-town nurse practitioner he wouldn’t look at twice if she weren’t Sofie’s mother was ridiculous.

While alluring in her way, Aila couldn’t begin to compete with the manufactured perfection of the supermodel wannabes and starlets gracing his arm. Not to the man he was. Now, he knew differently. If anyone dared claim he could fall for a nobody before they met, he would have called them crazy and meant it. More for the fact that he equated “fall” with love, and that just wouldn’t happen. It didn’t matter that Aila was pretty, sassy, and intelligent. He didn’t believe in love. Not in a romantic sense. He never had, and he never would. End of story.

Now he knew better. He’d been blindsided by an incredible woman he never saw coming. All things considered, he wasn’t surprised she’d changed his mind. However, he wasn’t the one he had to convince. Aila was, and she wasn’t an easy nut to crack. Her strength was one of the things he admired about her. Her genteel beauty was another. Speaking of that beauty, the object of his admiration was beginning to stir in a fitful manner.

“Aila, don’t.” Nolan dropped a kiss on her bare shoulder, feeling her subtle flinch. “Maybe we weren’t ready for this, but we both wanted it.”

“Yeah, we did.” Aila’s tone was rueful. “But not everything we want is good for us.”

“We both knew this day would come.” Nolan gently reminded her. “We made our marriage feel real faster than either of us expected, but we didn’t do anything wrong, so don’t even go there. Not even in your head.”

Aila fixed him with a sleepy glare, conveying maybe not, but their actions would change the rest of their lives. She knew it. In all the years she’d been with Jason, and as good as they’d been together, intimacy was never as soul-shattering as she’d experienced with this man. Nothing about what they did was sexual. It was so much more. They’d both felt it. She was sure of it, and that scared the hell out of her.

“No, we didn’t.” She reached out to take his hand. “And I don’t regret it. However, I know we just complicated things for both of us.”

From the look in his eyes, Nolan felt differently.

“Fine, you don’t agree, but I need some time to process if you don’t.” Physical intimacy opened a floodgate of emotions she wasn’t ready to handle. “To figure out where we go from here.”

Acknowledging her words, Nolan dropped a reassuring kiss on her lips. Acquiescing to her unspoken demand, he vowed to give her the reprieve she needed. Even if it killed him. Looking away, he didn’t expect Aila to gently turn his head back to hers and press her lips against his. Pulling back, she looked him in the eyes.

“I’ll process later.” Nolan quirked a brow as she casually straddled his body. “Right now, I have better things to do.”

“Oh, you do, do you?” The woman was full of surprises. “Who would have thought?”

“Me.” Staring him down, she settled comfortably on his lap, trapping his hardness between them. “And I don’t think you mind.”

“I don’t.” He confirmed thrusting against her as he groaned at the feel of being so tightly sheathed within her. “But I think I’d rather do it this way.”

Rolling her beneath him, Nolan smiled at the sound of Aila’s laughter filling the room. Feeling her legs wrap around his waist as he sank within her, he was glad she wasn’t ready to burst the imaginary bubble enclosing them in their private world of carnal delights. Neither was he. The bubble would burst soon enough anyway. Probably around the time Sofie knocked on their bedroom door.

###

Carefully disentangling from Bishop’s arms, Aila slid out of bed, careful not to disturb her sleeping husband. Not that she thought she would. Between the long flight and their vigorous welcome home activities, the man was out cold. Gazing over his naked form, she ignored the desire to covetously run her hands over bare muscle and skin.

Calming her runaway libido, she conceded Bishop was a fine specimen from his too-long auburn locks to his leanly muscled back. Leaning over to cover the delicious curve of his rump, she quietly grabbed a pair of jeans and a shirt before padding into the bathroom to take a shower. A few minutes later, she emerged fully dressed, with her hair in a clip and the fresh-faced hint of make-up she favored on her days off fully in place.

Padding downstairs, she ignored the familiar twinges she hadn’t felt in years. Fortunately, or unfortunately, Bishop approached lovemaking with the same enthusiasm he approached hotel acquisitions. Full throttle. While she’d appreciated his exuberance at the time, she wasn’t as fond of the aftereffects. Not yet anyway. Not that she’d allow her body to adjust to his possession. This was a one-off experience. They’d been swept up in the whole absence makes the heart grow fonder moment. Since her husband was home for the next few weeks, there wouldn’t be an opportunity to feel that way anytime soon.

Moving about the kitchen, she ground Bishop’s favorite coffee beans and made a fresh pot of Joe before grabbing eggs, cream, cheese, and bacon from the refrigerator. Fetching her homemade waffle mix and the maple syrup from the pantry, she contemplated making a blueberry compote as well. While they usually veered towards healthier fare, today was special. They were having Belgian waffles with cheesy eggs and bacon instead.

Sofie was getting the blood orange juice she’d freshly squeezed yesterday while her parents were getting blood orange mimosas made with champagne left over from their wedding celebration. Bishop’s return warranted popping the cork on one of those ridiculously expensive bottles of bubbly. More accurately, it was their first foray into seduction and intimacy that deserved the celebration, but she wasn’t going there. Even in her fantasies. Looking at her countertop display, Aila hoped Bishop appreciated his welcome home celebration as much as she enjoyed preparing it.

“Oh!” Aila started as arms wrapped around her from behind before turning to face her husband. “Where did you come from?”

Laughing softly, Bishop’s look said, “Do you seriously have to ask?” His damp hair and pajamas were self-explanatory.

“Don’t give me that look.” Aila returned his good morning kiss. “I left you drooling on your pillow.”

“I don’t drool.” Bishop quirked an amused brow in her direction.

“No, you don’t.” Aila agreed. “But you were sleeping hard.”

“I was.” Bishop nodded. “Then I realized you were gone, so I followed the scent of coffee.”

“It should be about ready.” Aila removed his mug from the cabinet. “Want a cup?”

“I think I’d rather pop the cork on the bottle of champagne cooling in the fridge.” Bishop reached over her head to remove two flutes from the cabinet. “We have a lot to celebrate. The coffee can wait until breakfast. In the meantime, let’s enjoy a few minutes on the patio before I have to wake a sleepyhead.”

They were keeping Sofie home for a long weekend to be with her dad. They’d made prior arrangements with her school, so her makeup work was already turned in. Since today was Thursday, she would have both her parents. However, tomorrow was strictly Daddy-Daughter Day. The weekend was whatever they chose to make it. Aila suspected they’d end up at the park and the zoo. Maybe they’d invite Sarah along for the ride. She’d run it by Bishop and Sofie. In the meantime, she had bigger issues to deal with.

“Sounds like a plan.” Nothing she had on the counter would spoil in the next few minutes. “I’ll pour the juice if you pop the cork.”

Watching him do as she’d asked, Aila filled their flutes a third of the way with juice before holding them out to be topped off from the open bottle. Taking one of the flutes, she followed Bishop out on the pool deck where they settled in side-by-side chairs around the table. Looking around their beautifully landscaped backyard, Aila decided she was a lucky girl in so many ways. She had a magnificent house, a sweet child, and an attentive, compelling husband. The only thing missing was love, and that was her fault. If she wasn’t misreading the situation, Bishop was willing to give it a go if she was willing to accept. She wasn’t. Not yet. Maybe never. She was still straddling that emotional fence.

Reaching out to take her hand, Bishop turned to look at her. “Are we okay?”

“Yeah, we are.” Considering she’d initiated intimacy, he’d done nothing wrong. “I don’t regret what we did; I’m just not ready to repeat it. Not when we need to concentrate on Sofie right now. Maybe later, when everything levels out.”

When they had more time for them.

“I’ll hold you to it.” Bishop squeezed her hand. “Just know I’m content with my life. With you and with Sofie. With what we have now. What I don’t like is being away from home so much. Things will slow down for a couple of months after Tokyo. I’d like to work on us, and this,” Bishop motioned between them in a way that let Aila know he was referring to intimacy. “Then.”

Nodding, Aila decided a lot could happen in a few months. She would entertain the idea. She owed him that much. Leaning in to drop a kiss on her lips, Bishop spoke a soft thank you against her ear.

“You’re welcome.” Aila touched his cheek.

Pulling away at the shrill, “Daddy!” Bishop stood to catch the human cannonball barreling into him. Rising to her feet, Aila watched her husband lift their daughter to his hip as he attempted to make sense of the little girl's gibberish pouring from her lips. Surrendering to the madness, he motioned in the direction of the house as he carried Sofie inside. Laughing out loud, Aila grabbed their empty flutes, confident she’d need to rescue Bishop before their daughter was done. However, she’d let him suffer in silence until breakfast was done.

CHAPTER EIGHTEEN

Hearing her husband moving around in the bedroom, Aila closed her eyes and tried to fall back asleep. She wasn’t ready to get up even if Nolan was. It was much too early, even if it was later than she usually stayed in bed. But who cared? She was off today, and she was enjoying it. From what she could see through the blinds, he’d let her sleep in. She was grateful for that rare luxury. However, that didn’t mean she was ready to be social. She wasn’t. She felt achy and queasy in ways that made her think she’d caught that nasty stomach virus making the rounds.

Gingerly sitting up, Aila was happy to see Nolan nowhere to be found. Slinging her legs over the edge of the mattress, she made her way to the bathroom before her stomach turned inside out. Leaning over the toilet, she wasn’t surprised that there wasn’t anything left to come up. She’d barely eaten last night. Rinsing her mouth, she reached for her toothbrush and squeezed a liberal amount of toothpaste across the bristles.

“Aila?” Nolan knocked on the bathroom door. “Let me in.”

Rolling her eyes, Aila looked up as she brushed her teeth. It had to happen, didn’t it? The last thing she wanted was to entertain her husband. She’d prayed he’d gone downstairs for his morning coffee before she ever rolled out of bed. She was wrong. He’d been lurking where he shouldn’t and heard what she didn’t want him to hear. Shaking her head in defeat, Aila rinsed her mouth yet again before she opened the door, deciding it was better to just deal with him than fight a losing battle.

“I don’t know what’s wrong with me.” She put her toothbrush away. “Probably the bug that’s going around the office.”

“Maybe.” Bishop rested both hands on her shoulders. “But I think it’s something else entirely.”

“Like what?” Aila held his gaze through the mirror, generally amazed at how comfortable they’d grown with each other over the past few weeks. “It has to be that stomach virus. Even Corey caught it.”

“Does it?” Bishop tossed back. “You’re a big girl. Use your head. What else could it possibly be? What besides a stomach virus causes intense vomiting before your feet ever touch the ground?”

Eyes widening slightly at the palm resting familiarly over her belly, Aila shook her head.

“No way.” The words tasted sour in her mouth. “I’m not pregnant. I can’t be.”

It was the last thing she expected and the worst possible thing to happen under the circumstances. They’d only slipped up one night. The next morning, things had fallen back in place as though nothing had happened. Truthfully, their relationship was good for the most part. Great. Caring and affectionate. Teasing and fun. Just not that intimate.

“Really?” Bishop resisted the urge to rudely roll his eyes as he guided her back into the bedroom to sit on the edge of the mattress. “Look at the facts. We didn’t use anything, and you aren’t on birth control, so I’d say there’s a big way. We certainly did what it takes that night, and we did it more than once.”

“Yeah, we did.” As much as she hoped Bishop was wrong, she knew he wasn’t. “What do we do now?”

“Exactly what you think,” Bishop responded quietly. “We have a family and raise our child. That’s what married people do.”

“Right.” Aila rolled her eyes. “We agreed to a marriage in name only.”

“That changed, or you wouldn’t be pregnant.” Bishop gently corrected her, not in the least surprised by her stubborn stupidity. “Now that you are, I think now is as good a time as any to redefine our relationship.”

“Fine.” Aila absently picked at the duvet, not sure what he was saying. “Redefine away.”

“Aila, look at me.” Bishop kneeled beside her and took her hand in his. “All I’m saying is we can continue as we are now, or we can make our relationship something more. I don’t think that would be hard to do. We already respect each other and share similar values in ways that matter. Added to that, there’s a very real physical attraction, or you wouldn’t be pregnant.”

“I guess I wouldn’t. So, you’re proposing we go from comfortable cohabitation to being a real couple out of left field?” Aila asked. “I’m not sure I’m ready for that.”

“You’d rather remain friends with occasional benefits than have a real marriage?” Bishop laughed softly. “Somehow, I don’t think that will suit you either.”

“When you put it like that, I guess not,” Aila said. “But I’m not wired for sex without love.” Ignoring the eye roll, Aila knew she wasn’t making sense to either of them. “Mutual respect and affection plus physical attraction aren’t strong enough foundations to build a real marriage.”

“Maybe not, but it’s a decent start.” Bishop reminded her. “I’m not asking for a sexual relationship right now. I am asking you to let things happen naturally and see where it takes us. While I understand where you’re coming from, I don’t have the same reservations as you do. As distasteful as this sounds, I’m a man and you’re a beautiful woman I care deeply for.”

Just how deeply he wasn’t ready to verbalize, and she wasn’t ready to hear.

“You shouldn’t be surprised I want you as well.” And she wanted him. “I don’t think either of us will deny we’re good together. All I’m asking is that you give us the honest chance you haven’t yet.”

“I think I can do that.” Giving them a real shot made the most sense, all things considered. “I’m sorry we’re in such a mess.”

“I’m not.” He wasn’t sorry at all. “It took both of us to get here, and it’s not like we didn’t discuss the possibility before we got married. Not this, but the probability our relationship would become physical with time.”

Aila nodded at the truth of his statement. They’d both acknowledged the attraction and the potential problems that could cause down the line. She’d almost refused his proposal for just that reason. However, Sofie’s welfare came first, so she’d said yes instead.

“You also know if I hadn’t found you appealing, I wouldn’t have suggested marriage in the first place.” He gently reminded her. “If you hadn’t felt the same, you wouldn’t have accepted. Not even for Sofie’s sake.”

“No, I wouldn’t.” Aila agreed before broaching the one subject she didn’t want to touch. “But this changes everything. You want a real marriage, and a real marriage means a total commitment on both sides. If Susan isn’t gone, she has to go now.”

“Why wouldn’t she be gone?” Bishop looked at her like she had two heads. “Susan’s been gone for months. I told you I ended our relationship the day you agreed to marry me, and I did. I haven’t seen her since. I haven’t wanted to.”

Yes, he’d said it, and she’d believed him. She still did. But she felt like the woman was lurking on the parameters of their life like a bad dream waiting for a chance to slither through the tiniest crack. While she was reasonably confident Nolan hadn’t seen Susan since they’d taken their vows, his words reassured her. She couldn’t see him hooking up with the model in New York. Down and dirty wasn’t his style. He wasn’t foolish enough to take her on an overseas trip either. Not with the paparazzi dogging their every step. He’d get busted the first time out.

Besides, Nolan didn’t have time for amorous liaisons. When he wasn’t at work, he was home with them. As for the other party, from what she’d read in the grocery store rags, Susan was now the very blonde, very well-paid face of a major European designer label. She was also busy globe-trotting with some princeling from some minor European principality she’d never heard of. Now she knew why. Bishop cut her loose just as he’d promised.

“But you’ve spoken to her.” Aila saw the truth on his face. “She’s been trying to get you back.”

“She’s called the office a few times, so yes, I have talked to her.” Nolan conceded. “She wanted to see how things were going.”

“She wanted to test the waters.” Aila read between the lines. “See if you’d reconsider your breakup.”

“Something like that,” Nolan admitted, not surprised that Aila suspected what he wasn’t willing to share. “I let her know I’m not interested in picking up where we left off, and I negotiated her latest contract as a final parting gift after I returned from Switzerland. Since she’s started seeing that prince, I think she’s finally accepted the truth. If she hasn’t, finding out you’re pregnant should do the trick.

“I hope it doesn’t come to that.” Aila didn’t want to use her pregnancy to get rid of an annoying ex-girlfriend. If she was pregnant at all. Somehow, the very idea felt tacky and beneath them. “I’d rather keep this between the two of us for as long as possible. The press is intrusive enough without this getting out.”

“It’s going to come out eventually.” Nolan rested his hand against her belly. “This isn’t something you can hide very long.”

“Maybe not.” Aila agreed. “But we have a few more months before my patients start asking if I’m getting fat or if there’s a kid in there. Don’t think for a moment they won’t. I assure you, they will. Especially old Mr. Cromarty from across the street.”

Not only was Corey the only OB/Gyn in town, but she also owned one of the only three family practices within a fifty-mile radius. Bill Cromarty popped in for his checkup every six months and left with a clean bill of health. The man might be older than dirt, but his mind was as sharp as a tack. He’d be the first to notice when she put on weight around her middle. Considering he’d fathered eight children with two different wives, he was bound to know what put it there. Once he figured that out, expecting him to keep it to himself was too much to ask.

“I want to be there when he does.” Nolan could see it all now. “That crusty old guy is something else.”

“Yes, he is.” Aila agreed. “That’s probably why he’s in such good shape at his age.”

“You’re probably right.” Nolan agreed. “However, we don’t need to worry about any of that yet. Before you start showing, I’ll call a couple of editors that I know and give them exclusives. We’ll announce we’re adding to our family on our terms, and we’re doing it now. As far as the world is concerned, this was planned. I think we’ll be left alone if we leak a few photographs here and there.”

“I like the way that sounds.” Aila hoped everything would work out the way they wanted. “I don’t feel like dealing with the press trying to steal photographs of my expanding belly every time I turn around, the way they stole photographs of our wedding.”

As hard as they’d worked to keep their nuptials private, reporters had taken unauthorized photographs appearing in newspapers all over the world. That was the single event that let her know how much her life had changed. That she was marrying someone prominent enough to have his privacy, and hers by association, invaded regularly. That knowledge shook her to her core.

Truthfully, she’d had second thoughts about marrying him when the first photographs appeared a day or two before the wedding. If it hadn’t been for her promise to Sofie, she would have backed out. Called everything off right before the ceremony. Especially when they’d caught that first photographer in the tree with her long-range lens. She’d been through the media circus once already, and didn’t like it. Only Bishop’s reassurances that their interest would fade had given her the courage to honor her commitment.

“They’ll try, but I’ll do my best to ensure they’re not intrusive about it,” Nolan promised. “Like it or not, people will be interested in my child. If you’ll cooperate, I think we can hold the press at bay with occasional updates.”

Aila wasn’t sure she liked this whole occasional update business. This was their child and their lives. The rest of the world needed to butt out of their universe. Especially those pesky reporters. She wasn’t a celebrity, even if other people felt differently. Nothing about her said socialite, whatever the heck that was. She was a healer, a wife, and a mother. You could have all the rest.

“Sofie was different. Since Abby and I were both famous, the press would have seized on her illegitimacy and the fact that we weren’t a couple.” Bishop absently caressed her arm. “I can see why Abby wouldn’t tell me for that reason alone.”

With hindsight, he could. Neither of them would have wanted to admit a casual one-night stand had yielded unexpected consequences. The situation would have cheapened a deep friendship of many years in the eyes of the world.

“She knew we’d never keep the truth of Sofie’s conception a secret if I knew. I couldn’t stay away from her or my child. Eventually, someone would have noticed we were together a lot more than usual and put two and two together. Staying in New York and denying the child was mine wouldn’t have worked either. The press would have hounded Abbey if she refused to divulge the father’s name, and they would have hounded both of us if she had.”

Fortunately, Abby had an ace up her sleeve. She’d inherited a modest property in Taylorsville from a distant relative no one knew about. Since she’d never visited the town, it was the perfect place to flee in her time of trouble. She’d maintained her anonymity by using an assumed name, toning down her appearance, and paying in cash. While Aila and Corey had known her real identity, the rest of Taylorsville hadn’t. For such a recognizable icon, Abbey was surprisingly girl-next-door when she wasn’t wearing her designer persona.

“You can’t be serious.” Every day, she learned something new about how her daughter came to be. “You are, aren’t you?”

“I am.” Bishop patted her hand. “Very serious.”

“No wonder Abby was so skittish.” Aila shook her head as more pieces fell into place. “While she wasn’t ashamed of her pregnancy, she didn’t want anyone prying into her life too deeply. Now I know why.”

“Yes, you do.” Bishop hesitated. “Aila, as much as I wish things were different, you need to accept the truth. While I’m not a celebrity or royalty, I’m prominent in my own right. People are interested in my life, and that makes us fodder for the media. It doesn’t help that I was one of the most eligible bachelors out there. There’s something about a wealthy, single man that captivates the imagination. I never saw the fascination.”

It didn’t help that he’d courted that attention up to a point. The media coverage of his hostile takeovers and acquisitions struck the fear of God into his competitors in the early days, and he welcomed the unsolicited help. Unfortunately, the coverage snowballed from there. Soon, he was front and center in the society pages along with whichever beautiful woman was latched to his arm at the time. Before too long, he was something of a myth. The larger-than-life mogul who refused to get caught by any of the beauties gracing his bed.

“You ended all that.” He smiled happily at the thought. “As inconvenient as you find the media, marrying me puts you in their sights. That we’re adding to our family so fast will keep you there.” He rolled his eyes in disgust. “That it’s general knowledge I never intended getting married or having a family doesn’t help matters. The fact that I’ve done just that in less than a year of our meeting has people speculating about what made you different from all the others. This second child is going to stir things up again; so, we’re going to stay under the microscope for a while.”

Closing her eyes, Aila processed his words, deciding she had to accept what she couldn’t change. She was Nolan Bishop’s wife and, potentially, the mother of his child. It didn’t matter that they already had Sofie. This was a whole different ball game, and she knew it.

“I don’t have any choice but to deal with it.” She reluctantly conceded. “I don’t think I’ve ever done that. I guess I had to live it to believe it.”

“That’s not surprising.” He’d felt the same in the early days. “Your second mistake is that you keep forgetting Abby was famous in her own right. It didn’t take long for her talent to get noticed. She was dressing everyone from A-List actresses to royalty before she turned twenty-five. She never lost that following.”

“You’re right, I never considered that.” Not even when she’d seen Abby and her latest boy toy plastered across the TV screen on one of those entertainment programs. “To me, she was just Sofie’s mother and a dear friend.”

“I know she appreciated that, and she felt the same.” Abby had said as much in his letter. “However, to the rest of the world, Abby was a talented artist with a body of work spanning back to her college years. I bet you have no idea what one of her purses is going for since her death. The sum is ridiculous, and it keeps going up every day.”

He almost couldn’t believe it himself.

“Nobody cares that her labels will continue uninterrupted. There are people out there willing to pay a small fortune to own a bag Abby designed and made in her home studio. You know the ones I’m talking about. They’re numbered and signed with her artisan’s mark and the date they were finished on the inside pocket.”

“You can’t be serious.” Aila walked to her closet and pulled a beautiful black and gold leather bag off the shelf. “Abby gave me this purse for my birthday about two months before Sofie was born. While I thought it was lovely, it wasn’t in keeping with baby blankets and diaper bags. I don’t think I’ve used it once. Maybe I should now.”

Looking inside the bag, Nolan nodded before putting the purse back where it belonged.

“Maybe you should, but you need to know it’s worth at least ten grand before you do.” Nolan quietly informed her. “That bag was called the Czarina Tote, and that color scheme was a limited-edition Abby made the year she expanded her accessories line to include larger pieces. If you had the largest bag, it would be worth double that.”

And quadruple the original cost.

“I do.” Aila didn’t feel it was necessary to prove it. “I have every piece in the collection, including both styles of weekenders. For some reason, Abby thought I needed the complete set, so she gave it to me. I haven’t used a single piece. I’ve been saving them for that special occasion that never came.”

“Then you have over a hundred thousand dollars in your closet.” Bishop smiled at the shock on her face. “I’m not surprised Abby did that. She could be generous when she wanted. She valued your friendship a lot.”

“We both did.” Aila quietly informed him. “I’m sorry she’s gone.”

“So am I.” Bishop agreed. “If it helps, I think she would be happy we’re married. That Sofie has the kind of family she never had. While she wasn’t made for any of this, I think she knew I was when I didn’t know myself. She was always encouraging me to find a nice woman and settle down. She didn’t care that it was the last thing I wanted. She thought it would be good for me, and she was right. I realized that a while ago.”

“Why didn’t you say anything?” Aila asked.

“You weren’t ready to hear it,” Bishop stated what they both knew. “You asked for time to process, and I wanted you to have it.”

“You’re probably right.” Aila agreed. “Thank you.”

“However, I think we’ve both had enough time to realize our relationship changed that night,” Bishop stated bluntly. “It became more without this newest development. Now, we don’t have any choice but to roll with it."

“That’s one way of looking at it.” Aila agreed. “That’s probably the best way of looking at it. I should get Corey to confirm our suspicions before we go any further.”

“Or maybe you should just take this.” Bishop walked over to remove something from a bag on the dresser before tossing a rectangular box in her direction. “If it’s positive, then we’ll both go to your boss for confirmation.”

“You already knew?” Aila asked. “And you bought a pregnancy test?”

He’d bought two.

“Suspected.” Bishop agreed. “As much as you’ve tried to hide it, you’ve been sick a lot over the past few days.”

Sick and abnormally tired from what he’d seen. While she’d also missed her cycle a couple of times, he wasn’t going there. She didn’t need to know how observant he was. It would only upset her more. Although it came with the territory, considering his line of business, he couldn’t deny he noticed things about his wife because he wanted to.

“I guess I have been.” But she still hadn’t connected the dots. “I feel so stupid.”

“Don’t.” Bishop gave her a serious look. “Your subconscious probably blocked the thought. Don’t you think I know the last thing you want is an Abby repeat?”

As much as Aila tried to hide her feelings, he saw the truth in her eyes.

“Let me set the record straight right now. Nothing about this is anything like Abby. For one thing, we’re as committed as two people can be. For another, once the lust was satisfied, Sofie’s mother and I were never more than friends, even back in our college days. We didn’t want to be. While I won’t insult either of us by saying we’re in love, I know there’s more than chemistry

and respect between us.”

Nodding silently, Aila held up the box before heading for the bathroom. Watching her leave, Bishop felt extremely anxious and wondered briefly if this was what most men experienced in a similar moment. He didn’t know. He’d never asked, and he’d never given the possibility a second thought. He’d never considered settling down. Never consciously wanted a family. He’d been too busy building his empire and dating gorgeous women. Women who were so self-absorbed and focused on their careers that they didn’t want children any more than he did.

Aila was different. He saw forever in her eyes. He had from the start. Glancing at his watch, Bishop realized she’d been in there much too long. That could only mean one thing. Knocking on the door in warning before gently pushing it open, he saw his wife sitting on the toilet lid, staring stupefied at a white stick.

“What’s the verdict?” He leaned over to drop a kiss on her hair and sneak a peek at the plastic tool betraying all. “From what I see, you’re about eight weeks gone.”

“You know we’re exactly eight weeks, almost to the day.” Aila dropped the stick in the trash before rising to her feet to wash her hands. “I don’t know what to say.”

“I hope you can say you’re excited.” Bishop placed his hands on her shoulders, willing her to look at him through the mirror. “I am.”

“I don’t know how I feel,” Aila admitted. “I think I’m still trying to get my mind around the idea and worrying about what Sofie will think. I don’t know how she’ll feel about sharing her mom and the dad she’s only had a few months.”

“She’ll be fine,” Bishop reassured her. “I think she’ll be excited to have a little brother or sister to care for. I know I am.”

Reaching beneath her shirt, Bishop’s hands rested familiarly against the curve of her belly.

“Don’t get too excited.” Aila rested her hands over his. “We still have to get confirmation. Some factors can lead to false positives.”

She nodded towards the trash can, hoping against hope that it was the case this time.

“Are your physicals up to date?” Mildly surprised by Bishop’s quick response, Aila nodded affirmatively to his question. “Then, while I applaud your caution, it isn’t necessary.” Turning her in his arms, Bishop dropped a kiss on her lips. “We both know better. Added to the morning sickness, you’re noticeably fatigued when you never were before. This is something new, and it’s gotten worse over the past couple of weeks. I’m sure there are other signs as well if you’ll only open your mind and look.”

Somehow, he didn’t think she’d want him looking, although he wouldn’t mind. He’d love to see the subtle changes already taking place in her body. He was somewhat startled to realize how thrilled he was to be having another child and having that child with Aila.

“Why don’t you call Corey and see if she can come into the office?” Bishop handed her the phone. “I’m free for the next few hours, so I can hold your hand if you’d like.”

“Oh, I’d like.” Dialing the phone, Aila admitted she didn’t want to deal with Corey on her own. The woman would be over the moon if the tests were positive. Speaking softly, Aila made the necessary arrangements and reassured her boss that, while it wasn’t an emergency, it was an intensely private matter she’d prefer not to get out. “She’ll meet us in twenty minutes behind the office. We need to enter the back way and use the employee entrance.”

There would be people knocking on the front door if they didn’t.

“Then let’s hit the road.” Bishop quietly commanded as he led her out the door. “The quicker we get there, the quicker we’ll have confirmation.”

Aila hoped not.

CHAPTER NINETEEN

Sitting on the edge of the exam table, Aila waited for Corey to come back with her test results. She’d managed to convey that the date of conception was definite without betraying the true state of their relationship. While she hadn’t outright lied, she was guilty of sins of omission, and she could live with that. It was far better that her boss continued to believe she had a real marriage than know she’d conceived the only night they’d fallen.

Staring down at her hands, she couldn’t bring herself to look at Bishop. While he’d been in the room the whole time, they’d been separated by a thick curtain during the most intimate prodding. Like it or not, Corey was being even more thorough than usual, which was mildly annoying considering she’d had a very in-depth physical and updated her vaccinations a couple of weeks before her wedding.

Looking up at the sound of the door opening, she wasn’t surprised to see Corey walk through carrying her file. She was surprised when Bishop walked around to sit behind her on the bed, draping his arm around her to grip her hand reassuringly. Leaning into him, she rubbed his thumb with hers, silently conveying she appreciated his support.

“It’s not a false positive,” Corey announced to the room in general. “So, if the information you’ve given me is accurate, your due date should be September 16 if the kid decides to cooperate. We both know that’s not likely.”

Aila snorted at her boss’s antics. She’d heard that speech a thousand times, but Corey was right. She’d be surprised if everything went as planned and her little one entered the world when he or she was supposed to. They tended to do their own thing.

“The good news is you’re healthy as a horse, which we already knew. The bad news is I’m predicting a rough time of it with the morning sickness, given how you’ve started. If it gets too bad, get this prescription filled and take your vitamins like you’re supposed to. Other than that, I don’t have a whole lot to say except congratulations, and it’s about time. I can’t think of a better father for my next godchild! Now, go home and rest while I do the same.”

Hugging them both, Corey watched them leave the office, thinking what a great-looking couple they made. That baby was going to be a heartbreaker if he took after his dad. Smirking to herself, she shook her head, knowing Aila wanted another girl she wasn’t getting. While she didn’t have anything but a hunch to go on, she had every idea Bishop always got what he wanted, and the man wanted a boy since he already had a girl. They’d know the truth of it soon enough.

###

Walking through the open door, Aila’s knees wobbled. While she’d known she was pregnant in her head, she hadn’t accepted the truth in her heart. She was still hoping against hope for a false positive. Corey dashed all that. She was undeniably with child. Something she never thought possible. Not with her life and not with this man. Her boss was overjoyed. Bishop was thrilled. She wasn’t sure how she felt except stunned and overwhelmed.

“This isn’t a dream?” Stepping into the foyer, Aila dropped her purse on a chair and kicked off her shoes. “We honestly got pregnant the first time. I can’t believe it.”

She couldn’t. The whole scenario was surreal. She hadn’t even thought about sex since she’d discovered Jason’s infidelity all those years ago. Well, maybe she’d thought about it. But she hadn’t done it. Hadn’t wanted to. Her relationships were much too casual. Then she’d met Bishop, and the story changed.

“Believe it.” Nolan wrapped his arms around her. “Your boss confirmed what we already knew. You’re pregnant even if you want to deny it.”

He should know. He’d been in the room with her the whole time. He’d watched Corey draw blood and been there to hear the results. He’d listened to the sounds of activities he’d rather not think about and heard Corey’s reassurances that everything was fine. He’d watched her perform the sonogram and caught his first glimpse of the rather funky little blob everyone claimed was his child. He wasn’t so sure it was even human, but he’d take their word for it. All in all, he’d been educated in a realm he knew nothing about.

“I guess I am.” Aila leaned into his chest before looking up at him. “How do you feel about it?”

“How do you think?” Nolan squeezed her a little tighter. “I’m happy and excited. But I’m not the one doing all the work. The real question is, how do you feel about it?”

“Happy,” Aila admitted honestly. “I wasn’t sure I would be.” She thought she’d be devastated when Corey confirmed an unplanned pregnancy with a man she didn’t love. Who was she fooling? With a man she loved who loved her to some degree in return. She knew it, but she still expected the other shoe to drop. “I’m happy, but I’m a little sad it happened this way, too.”

“Don’t even go there.” Bishop dropped a kiss on her lips. “This isn’t Sofie all over again. It can’t be for so many reasons. For one, our relationship is very real and very intimate.”

He lightly rubbed her wedding band, reminding her they weren’t two ships passing in the night. They were legally and spiritually covenanted to each other. He had the pictures, the marriage license, and the top of their wedding cake in the freezer to prove it if that ring wasn’t enough.

“For another, I want you in a way I never wanted Abby. I’d already accepted the changes in our relationship if you hadn’t.” He rested his hand against her belly. “Besides, I knew you weren’t on birth control, so I knew this might happen. I didn’t care.” He shrugged lightly. “I think I hoped it would.”

With hindsight, he’d more than hoped it would. He’d done everything in his power to engineer that oops moment once Aila opened the door. While he’d never admit the truth, he may have prayed for just such a happening in the wee hours of the morning when his wife was happily dreaming the night away. More than prayed.

He’d known forcing her hand would bring them closer together, not farther apart, and he wanted that. He was tired of waiting for Aila to accept the happiness he offered, and he was tired of watching her wallow in unnecessary fears. Tired enough to take drastic steps to stop the pain.

A few weeks later, he’d realized just how serendipitous his timing was when he started noticing little signs his wife wasn’t seeing. He couldn’t have planned things better if he’d tried, and he hadn’t. He’d had nothing to do with his meetings running over in Switzerland. He would have left if there had been any way possible. There wasn’t. As put out as he’d been at the time, his opinion had changed recently. Although neither of them had known, they would have been extremely lucky if Aila hadn’t conceived that night. Fortunately, their luck ran out.

“You wouldn’t be carrying my child if I felt differently.”

Aila knew that was true. Bishop’s fathering of Sofie had been a reckless act in a defenseless moment. But one instance of stupidity didn’t make him an irresponsible man. Far from it. He’d suffered a very human moment of weakness he’d never had before or since. She was sure of it. She’d been around him long enough to see just how seriously he took his responsibilities. How strong he was in the face of a challenge.

She’d even come to admire how effortlessly Bishop juggled his life, never losing sight of the things he valued most. However, mixed in with all that appreciation was the tiniest hint of resentment. From what he was saying, Bishop had made a conscious decision he’d like to expand their family over the weeks of their marriage. Unfortunately, he’d failed to share that change of perspective with her. With hindsight, that didn’t seem very fair. It seemed they’d been partners in every way but this.

However, fair or not, it didn’t change the fact that she was equally responsible for the child in her womb. She could have taken precautions to prevent this from happening. She hadn’t even known the nature of their relationship was changing. She’d even considered her options before abandoning that line of thought. She wasn’t ready to take the next step. Being prepared would only make it easier to cave to the heat of the moment. Not being prepared was a very real deterrent. Or so she’d thought. She couldn’t have been more wrong.

Like Bishop, in the heat of the moment, she didn’t care. Not at the time anyway. Afterward, maybe. She wasn’t sure. What she did know was that she didn’t know anything. Maybe she’d wanted his child. Maybe she’d wanted to force herself to confront what she felt for her husband. What he felt for her. She couldn’t answer that. What she did know with certainty was that she didn’t want the complications coming with an unplanned pregnancy. Now she had them. They both did. Only time would tell how well they handled them.

“Well, I cared,” Aila admitted. “I got caught up in the moment.”

“We both did.” Nolan hugged her a little closer. “It wasn’t the end of the world then, and it isn’t now. Our lives aren’t over, just changed, and that’s not a bad thing.”

Hopefully changed for the better. He’d certainly embraced that hope when he’d noticed her sudden fatigue among other indicators. Things he probably wouldn’t have noticed normally. Not if he hadn’t been so aware they’d had unprotected sex during what was likely her fertile period. Putting the pieces together, he finally broke down and bought those home pregnancy tests a couple of days ago. He’d intended to spring them on her tonight until that virulent bout of morning sickness brought everything to a head.

“No, it’s not.” Aila agreed. “It’s just hard to believe I’m pregnant. That there’s a tiny life in here.” She rested her hands over his. “While I couldn’t love Sofie more if I’d given birth to her, I didn’t. I’m looking forward to having the full experience this time around.”

“I’m looking forward to sharing it with you.” There was a certain hesitancy in Bishop’s tone she wasn’t used to hearing. “I hope you’ll let me.”

“Why wouldn’t I?” Aila turned to look at him. “You’re my husband, and this is our child.”

“Yes, I am, and he is.” While he knew that, he wasn’t sure she did. “I wouldn’t change either thing.”

“Neither would I,” Aila admitted. “If this had to happen, I’m glad it’s you.”

“So am I.” Bishop agreed. “This is a good thing. It might not feel that way right now, but it is.”

Maybe not the timing, but the actual event. Bishop couldn’t remember when he’d been happier. Nothing could compare to the moment he saw his child on that screen and knew he was real. He’d never felt joy like that. He never would again.

“Yes, it is.” Wrapping her arms around his waist, Aila curled into Bishop’s chest blindly seeking the reassurance of his strength. “It’s crazy. I have everything I’ve ever wanted, and I’m terrified. I thought I had it all with Jason when it went away.”

“I’m not Jason.” Bishop dropped a kiss on the top of her head before tipping her chin so he could do the same to her parted lips. “And you only thought you had it all. You didn’t, but you do now. Or you can. Believe I’m not going anywhere, and neither is this baby. Once you do, your old life is just a bad dream that’s lingered too long.”

Seeing dawning acceptance in her eyes, Bishop dropped to his knees and pulled Aila’s top over her head. Pressing his cheek against her skin, he closed his eyes and imagined the tiny heartbeat beneath his ear. While he knew it wasn’t possible, a man could dream. Kissing her tummy, he couldn’t wait until the flat planes started rounding out. Rising to his feet as he released his wife, Bishop hoped she’d ignore the emasculating sheen in his eyes. Even the strongest male could bend to news like this without being less of a man.

“Do you realize what we’ve done?” Awe welled up inside him at the enormity of the situation. “The life we’ve created?” His eyes rested on her womb. “He ties us together as nothing else could.”

“Yes, he does.” While Sofie had brought them together, it was the child within her cementing her relationship with this man through their precarious start. “I never thought this would happen in a million years.”

“I did.” Resting his hands on her shoulders, Bishop admitted the truth. “As much as I love Sofie, I won’t lie to you. I wanted a child with you. One we created between us. I wanted him, and I intended to have him eventually. Just not necessarily this way.”

Without conscious consent on either side.

As much as he protested otherwise, Aila was right. The whole thing smacked too much of Abby when it should have been different. But it wasn’t. He hadn’t gotten Aila’s consent beforehand. He hadn’t experienced that whole razor’s edge of anticipation or the sudden elation that came with success after months of trying.

Instead, they’d shared an incredible night of passion that reaped a result they hadn’t believed possible. Bishop shook his head. He didn’t have anything to complain about. This way was probably better given their personalities. Forget the planning. Forget the weeks or months of trying. His child was conceived in love, and that was all that mattered in the end. He knew it, and Aila knew it, even if they had yet to say the words. Leaning in to kiss his wife yet again, Bishop lifted her in his arms and carried her to their bed.

“I can’t touch you without wanting you.” While he’d felt that way for months, knowing she carried his child only heightened his desire. “Let me love you.”

Contemplating the raw vulnerability in his eyes, Aila nodded as she wrapped her arms around his neck and brushed her lips across his. There was nothing she wanted more.

###

“Aila.” Bishop ran his hand over her side. “Talk to me.”

“Isn’t that supposed to be my line?” Aila opened her eyes. “I thought it was women who got chatty after sex.”

Ignoring his not necessarily smirk, Aila rolled on her back and closed her eyes as she gathered her thoughts before reluctantly opening them to look at him.

“As stupid as it seems, I’m still scared.” She whispered her earlier words. “I’m so scared this is going to blow up in my face that I can smell the stink of my fear.”

Sitting up, Bishop pulled her across his lap. Cuddling Aila against his chest, he was amazed at how small and vulnerable she felt compared to him. While she wasn’t a tall woman, she wasn’t petite either. She was a solid, healthy female of average height who shouldn’t cause these protective feelings he’d never felt. But, like it or not, she did.

He wasn’t sure if that was because she was the first woman who’d shared his life so intimately or because she carried his child within her. Resting his chin against the top of her head, he decided it was a little of both. It didn’t help that she was significantly smaller than most of the women who had shared his bed. Something about her size brought out his protectiveness.

While he didn’t blame Aila for being afraid, he was, for different reasons. She had to conquer those fears. There was more than just them and Sofie at stake. There was the child in her womb. Their child. The one they’d created together. The one who’d suffer the most if they let their insecurities tear them apart. Something he wouldn’t let happen, no matter her foolishness.

“I’m scared, too.” Bishop finally admitted. “Terrified I’m going to mess up. Not that I’ll cheat on you. I won’t. I refuse to be my father. But hurting you without meaning to is a different matter. We both know that will probably happen more often than either of us likes. When it does, I hope you’ll consider my lack of experience with meaningful relationships. I also hope you’ll remember I meant every vow I said the day we got married, and I mean them now. There was something about putting that ring on your finger that made this real for me.”

Resting against his chest, Aila closed her eyes. She felt the same. She just hadn’t known he did.

“I realized I want you, I want our marriage, and I want this life we’re building together.” He gently touched her cheek. “However, what I want doesn’t matter unless you feel the same. You can’t keep straddling the fence and caving to your insecurities. I can’t do anything more to prove myself. The ball is in your court. Either you want me and our family, or you don’t. You either commit to our marriage or you don’t. You can’t have it both ways. Not with everything at stake. Not anymore.”

“Is that your way of saying I’m out of time?” Aila closed her eyes and breathed in his calming scent. “That we have a real marriage or else?”

“I think it is.” Bishop concurred. “You can’t keep retreating into your shell every time we’re intimate. It’s detrimental to both of us.” Aila nodded, knowing he was right even if she didn’t want to admit it. “The only way you’ll get over your issues is to trust what we have. It’s time to put up or shut up for all our sakes. To honor the life we committed to on our wedding day. You don’t have a choice anymore.”

Aila nodded against his chest, silently acquiescing to his demand. The sudden lowering of her back to the bed signaled Nolan’s acceptance of her response and his determination to test her resolve. If she protested his covering her body with his again, he’d think she wasn’t committed to making their marriage work. He couldn’t think of anything else. She wouldn’t blame him, although nothing was farther from the truth. To prove her point, she willingly met him touch for touch and thrust for thrust. As scared as she was, she loved him, and she believed he felt the same. That was enough for now.

###

“I’m glad you came to your senses.” Bishop covered his eyes with his arm as he struggled to regulate his breathing. “This constant vacillating isn’t good for any of us. Especially Ethan.”

Snorting softly, Aila couldn’t believe his gall. Give that man an inch and he’d take a mile. Or he’d try, but she wasn’t going down without a fight.

“Ethan?” Aila seized on his arrogance. “Number one, we don’t know this kid’s a boy, and number two, we haven’t discussed baby names.”

“Do you have a problem with Nolan Ethan Bishop, III?” Bishop kept a straight face, knowing it would drive her crazy. While he’d like to name his firstborn son after himself, he wouldn’t demand it. But Aila didn’t have to know that yet. “If you do, we can talk about it later.”

“Nothing except I wasn’t consulted,” Aila commented. “Don’t you think both parents should have a say in the naming process?”

“Yes, I do, and I never had a part in naming Sofie.” Nolan was mildly surprised he cared now that she’d pointed it out. “Don’t get me wrong, I think Sofie’s name suits her, but I didn’t choose Sophia Danielle. You did.”

“You have a point.” Aila agreed. “You didn’t have a part in naming our daughter, and I don’t have a problem with Ethan if we have a boy. I think he should be named after his daddy. If it’s another girl, that’s a different story. I don’t think Ethany will do at all.”

“Don’t be smart.” Nolan kissed her. “If she’s another girl, we’ll get with Sofie and pick the perfect name. Make it a family deal.”

“I’d like that.” Aila relaxed against him. “I think Sofie would, too.”

“So do I.” Nolan agreed. “However, we need to tell her first.”

“We can do that when we pick her up from school,” Aila mumbled. “Right now, as much as I’d rather laze in bed all day, you need to get to work, Buddy. I believe you have a call coming in from Lausanne in about twenty minutes.”

Glancing at the clock, Nolan realized his wife was right. Just because he was working from home today didn’t mean he could miss his appointments as much as he wanted to. There was something about the events of the day that had his attention on anything but business. The fact that he’d just spent an indeterminant amount of time dozing and making love with his wife wasn’t helping matters.

Learning he was going to be a father for the first time blew his mind. Sofie didn’t count in the sense that he hadn’t known when she was conceived. Abby hadn’t told him anything. Instead, he’d discovered he was already a father five years after the fact. This was a different experience. He was experiencing the anticipation he never had with his daughter, and it was discombobulating. He needed to get his mind off his wife’s womb and back on the office, or his pocketbook was in for a world of hurt.

Gisella Forteau and her team weren’t lightweights. She’d have him agreeing to more than he wanted to spend on updates if he wasn’t careful. Fortunately, he knew how to shoot down her more preposterous plans without insulting her. He was grateful to have one of the best interior designers in Europe on his payroll, and he worked hard to keep it that way.

However, that didn’t mean he’d let her take him to the cleaners. He’d been there, done that, and had the dinged expense account a few years back to prove it. Not that her work wasn’t worth every penny. It was. But the extravagance was more than he’d wanted. More importantly, while her renovations paid for themselves and then some in the end, at the time, he hadn’t been sure they would. The fact that his chef won a very prestigious international award around the time the inn opened was probably the only reason they had. Thanks to Gerard’s continued renown, the boutique establishment had a perpetual waiting list.

Snorting softly at Gisella’s audacity, Bishop rolled out of bed and dressed casually in jeans and a button-down. Walking into the bathroom, he splashed water on his face, brushed his teeth, and combed his hair. Staring in the mirror, he nodded at his reflection. He was presentable if his old friend wanted a video interview. Cool and collected, if a little more relaxed than usual. The last thing he needed was to have a colleague see him looking like he had just tumbled out of bed. Walking back into the bedroom, he wasn’t surprised Aila was still awake.

“You can barely keep your eyes open.” Reaching out to caress her face, Bishop laughed softly at her obvious exhaustion. “It’s been an overwhelming day, and it’ll be a crazy night. Sofie’s going to bounce off the walls when she learns about the baby. Get some rest, and I’ll wake you when I’m done.”

Nodding, Aila closed her eyes, not surprised to feel his lips brush her forehead before the door closed softly behind him. She couldn’t ask for a better husband or a better man. She knew that more and more with every passing day. She just needed to believe it. Things might work out if she did.

CHAPTER TWENTY

Pouring a cup of tea from her favorite stoneware teapot, Aila took a sip before leaning against the counter and closing her eyes. Things were too quiet with Sofie in school and Bishop working in town. She was too used to her crazy work schedule and frenetic home environment to be comfortable surrounded by silence. Like it or not, she was rarely alone since she’d said I do unless her husband was out of town. Amend that. She was rarely alone since she’d conceived and thrown herself into her very real marriage a while ago. Stir-craziness aside, she’d never been happier.

Staring into her cup, Aila decided she couldn’t take the quiet. Not today. Not considering this was the first day she’d felt like herself in weeks. She had real energy for a change. Maybe she’d finally turned that elusive corner Corey kept telling her about. She hoped so. While she did what she had to do, sheer willpower and mind over matter kept her functioning when she wanted to give in to the horrible morning sickness that only got worse, not better, with time.

Forget those magic pills. The prescriptions did little to alleviate her symptoms. They’d been so ineffective that she quit taking them in the end. It was easier to muddle through with rest and holistic teas. Somehow, she’d managed to do just that. Fortunately, she’d noticed her nausea seemed less pervasive and intense a couple of days ago. The pattern had held to the point she hadn’t been ill today, which was a miracle.

The second miracle was that her schedule had unexpectedly flipped. Since Corey had to go out of town for the weekend on business, the office was open on Thursday and closed today, which was a rare treat. She hadn’t had a Friday off in years. While part of her said she should rest and conserve her newfound energy, that idea didn’t appeal. She felt good enough to enjoy herself for a change. While she usually used this time to clean the house or catch up on her reading, those habits had slowly changed since her marriage.

Now that a cleaning service comes in twice a week, an occasional spot clean keeps things immaculate. As for the catch-up reading, she spent most evenings in the big wing chair in Nolan’s office, silently flipping pages and keeping him company while he worked. So far, the changes had served them well. The only problem was that she’d gone from never having enough time in a day to suddenly finding herself all caught up with nothing to fill her free time.

Feeling at a loss with what to do with herself until it was time to pick Sofie up from school, Aila finally decided to make a grocery run. She could use some fresh fruits and vegetables. Maybe she’d swing by Sadie’s for a bite. Better yet, she’d get lunch for her husband and surprise him. She hadn’t done that in a while. Bishop would appreciate the effort.

Walking up the stairs to her bedroom, Aila pulled a pair of jeans and a T-shirt from a drawer. Wriggling into her pants, she eyed the gap at the top of her waist. It had to happen today of all days, and she wasn’t pleased. This was her largest pair of jeans. Forget wearing anything else. It wouldn’t fit. Rummaging for safety pins, she fastened her jeans and surveyed her handiwork.

She didn’t know why she was so surprised she’d rounded out overnight. She’d known this day was coming. She was steadily gaining weight as she should be. But it was slower going due to her morning sickness. Maybe that was why this was such a shock. She’d known the changes were happening. They’d just been so subtle, the extent hadn’t hit until now.

She’d have to add a quick run by a department store to her errands. She needed to buy a couple of pairs of slacks, a pair of jeans, and a couple of loose blouses in a size up to hold her until her next significant weight gain. One that was surely coming since Corey would demand she make up the weight she hadn’t been able to gain thus far.

Right now, she’d have to make do with what she had. Tossing the T-shirt aside, she grabbed a seldom-worn flowy blouse from her closet that wasn’t quite so flowy anymore when she put it on. It was tighter than she liked in obvious places. Unfortunately, compared to her comfortable tees, this top was the lesser of the two evils.

Rolling her eyes, Aila grabbed her purse and decided to get a move on. She’d do in a pinch. It wasn’t like she was attending a formal event. She was running errands and dropping by her husband’s office. Big whoop. Speaking of Bishop, he’d probably get a kick out of her current predicament. From personal experience, she could safely say he was quite taken with her rapidly expanding curves.

###

Smiling at Connie chatting on the phone, Aila motioned to the handled bag in her hands and towards her husband’s closed office door. Receiving an affirming nod, she decided to go for it. Knocking lightly, she didn’t wait for a response before pushing through the door. It wasn’t necessary. She didn’t have to worry about interrupting anything when Connie gave the all clear. The woman knew more about her husband’s schedule than he did. Bishop paid her very well to monitor his professional life so he could live it.

Although Aila rarely dropped by unannounced, she’d done it a few times and knew the drill by now. If Bishop was too busy to see her, she’d quietly leave and get the expected call from her mate when he finally came up for air. If she happened to bring lunch, she’d leave her gift with Connie, knowing her husband would appreciate her thoughtfulness. Fortunately, today wasn’t one of those disappointing days. It appeared Nolan was free. Just not as free as she’d hoped.

Watching the guilty couple suddenly break apart, Aila stood in the open doorway, bag in hand, noticing the familiar long auburn hair that was no longer blonde. Watching the other woman turn to face her, she was mildly surprised by the triumphant gleam in her eyes. Looking at her husband, she was less surprised by the disgusted expression on his face than she should have been. She’d known that the woman was up to something if he hadn’t. That she wouldn’t exit their lives without trying something underhanded. Bishop was too big a fish to let slip through her greedy little paws without a fight.

Well, Susan was in for a big disappointment. Things weren’t as they seemed, so she wasn’t jumping to the obvious conclusion. Not until she was sure there was somewhere to jump in the first place. Considering what she thought she saw, Aila wasn’t convinced there was anything untoward going on, even if the other woman had that nasty grin on her face. Absently stroking her hand down her stomach, Aila subconsciously emphasized the burgeoning curve of her belly.

“Hello, Susan, it’s nice to meet you.” She spoke calmly as though she hadn’t just walked in on the redhead kissing her husband square on the mouth. “Since I didn’t know you were dropping by, I’m afraid I didn’t bring enough for three.”

She shook the bag in her hand, giving Nolan the out that he didn’t need to rid them of the woman’s cloying presence.

“I think you should go.” Bishop nodded in the direction of his office door, ignoring Susan’s shock that things weren’t going her way. “There’s nothing left to say. My wife and son are here for our lunch date.”

Watching the other woman’s internal struggle play across her face, Aila was pleased when she departed by a side door without the scene none of them wanted. Feeling a little numbed by the incident, she set her bag on her husband’s desk and gave him an inquiring look. She hoped he had a believable explanation for what she’d walked in on for all their sakes.

“I don’t know what you want me to say?” Bishop admitted. “Somehow, this isn’t what it seems sounds trite, and I won’t insult your intelligence by saying you didn’t see what you know you did.”

“Then say the truth.” Aila shrugged. “I know what I think I saw, but I only caught the tail end of a well-staged production. The question is whether you were pulling her closer or pushing her away.”

“What do you think I was doing?” Nolan’s tone was equally quiet, reflecting the gravity of the situation between them. “I’d like to know.”

Aila’s gaze was steady as she uttered the words that would make or break them in so many ways.

“That she kissed you,” Aila stated firmly. “But it doesn’t matter since we aren’t together like that.”

Resisting the urge to bash his palms against his desk in frustration, Nolan shuffled papers instead. As much as he wanted to say something cutting, he wouldn’t rise to her bait. It wouldn’t accomplish anything positive. It would do irreparable harm instead. Although letting off steam would make him feel better, he couldn’t take that chance. They’d grown much closer over the past few weeks. Aila had slowly begun to trust him as she should. Or she had been.

He wasn’t about to lose ground because she fell victim to pregnancy hormones. He didn’t blame her this time. She’d just taken quite the hit to her confidence in him and their relationship. Susan was the svelte, beautiful woman he’d known intimately for years longer than he’d known she existed. His wife wouldn’t be human if she weren’t upset by what she’d seen. Upset, hurt, and furious if he didn’t miss his guess.

“We’ve been together like that since I came home from Switzerland in my mind, if not in yours, so it matters.” Walking over to gently grip her chin, Bishop forced her to look at him. “You’re right. I didn’t kiss Susan, and I didn’t kiss back. She kissed me when she saw you at the door. I didn’t know she’d returned from Paris until she appeared in my office unannounced while Connie was away from her desk. Her visit was neither expected nor welcome. I wouldn’t have contacted the woman if I’d known her prince dropped her for a younger model. We were over a long time ago.”

Wincing visibly at his words, Bishop knew Aila felt a mild twinge of pity for the other woman. While unfortunate for Susie, it wasn’t his problem, and he’d told her so. Since he had a wife and family now, they were done. She needed to accept that it wouldn’t change. Not now. Not anytime soon. Not ever. She hadn’t taken his words well. She’d refused to accept them.

“You don’t have to explain.” Aila blinked.

“Really?” Bishop fixed her with the stare that caused his business opponents to tremble in their boots. “I think I do. I haven’t wanted to kiss any woman but you since long before this happened.” He rested his palm against the curve of her belly. “I haven’t been with any woman but you since we met. I cut all ties with Susan as soon as you accepted my proposal. Since I’ve never had the time or inclination to juggle more than one lover, there wasn’t anyone else to end. As for us, I fall asleep with you in my arms every night and wake up the same way. We make love as often as possible, and cuddle when we can’t. So, examining the evidence, we’re together like that.”

His tone conveyed that it was the end of the story.

“Right.” Lacking her husband’s restraint, Aila rolled her eyes. “Everyone knows a sane man would rather bed a baby Beluga than a beautiful model minus fifteen extra pounds of blubber.”

“Either I’m insane or everyone is wrong,” Bishop stated firmly. “Because I’d much rather be with my wife than any woman I know. I’ve been telling you that for months. More importantly, I’ve been showing you every chance I get.”

Fortunately, he’d had plenty of chances before her morning sickness escalated, and he wasn’t about to stop now that it was calming down. Leaning in, he captured her lips with his.

“And you aren’t toting around fifteen extra pounds of anything. Maybe ten tops.” Bishop corrected her, knowing his estimate was closer to the truth. “But that’s my kid in there, so it doesn’t matter.” He caressed her rounded lower belly. “In case you haven’t figured out yet, I happen to find this incredibly sexy.”

“There’s nothing sexy about baby pooch.” Aila rested her hand on top of his. “It’s a necessary evil we go through to get the prize.”

“There is when it’s my prize that created the pooch,” Nolan informed her. “Maybe it’s a man thing.”

“Right.” Aila wasn’t having it. “You’re nuts.”

“I’m honest.” Nolan challenged her. “I didn’t know I’d feel this way.”

“That makes two of us,” Aila stated. “What would the world say if they saw Nolan Bishop, ruthless entrepreneur, acting like you are right now?”

“That I have a daughter I love, a wife I cherish, and an unborn child I’m anxious to meet.” He didn’t hesitate in choosing his words. “And that I find my wife incredibly desirable. They’d be right.”

It wasn’t what she wanted to hear, but cherished and desirable worked in a pinch. As Nolan said, the rest would come with time. Or they hoped it would.

“Who are you?” Aila studied the man standing before her. “Where’s my husband?”

“Right here,” Nolan reassured her. “Enjoying time with his wife.”

Leaning into his chest, Aila closed her eyes and savored the subtle, clean smell she’d grown accustomed to. As hard as she’d fought it, she was perilously close to loving her husband in a way she hadn’t loved Jason. It was as though some part of her knew, ruthlessness aside, Nolan was the better man. Sighing softly, Aila finally surrendered the fight. The child in her belly signaled the battle was done. They were man and wife in every way that counted, and nothing could change that. Bishop wouldn’t let it. She knew it deep in her soul.

CHAPTER TWENTY-ONE

“Aila, I’m not your ex, and this won’t blow up in your face. You should know that by now. You don’t, but you should.” Carefully lifting the hem of her top, he resisted the urge to pull it over her head, knowing they were in much too public a place. “You should also know you’re beautiful in my eyes and nothing can change that. Certainly not this.” He leaned over to kiss the gentle curve of her belly. “That’s my kid in there, and I love him. Not only that, but I also love the changes he’s making in your body.”

Changes he hadn’t shared with Abby.

“You can’t mean that.” Aila studied his face as he rose to his feet. “I don’t love the changes. None of my clothes fit. Look at this.” She fingered the large safety pins holding her jeans together. “Not even my shoes. I should know. It took me half an hour to find something to wear today. Oh, and you don’t know she is a boy. Our baby could be a girl.”

“Trust me, he’s a boy.” Bishop stated as though it were a fact. “As for the other, it’s time to go shopping then.” He lightly rubbed her shoulders, ignoring her comment on the sex of their child. They’d know the truth soon enough, and he’d be vindicated. Abby gave him the daughter he adored. His wife would give him his son. He was convinced if she wasn’t. “Just you and me. We can leave from here.”

He didn’t have anything pressing on his schedule for the rest of the day. He’d had his nose to the grindstone all morning. He could leave early if he wanted. That was one of the perks of owning the company.

“What’s with you and shopping?” Aila quirked a brow at him. “I thought a new house and all the furnishings would hold you for a year or two. Now you want to buy clothes?”

“Not just any clothes.” Bishop teased. “The dreaded maternity clothes. I can’t have my wife hating her beautiful body.”

“They aren’t so bad now.” Aila conceded, ignoring his comment. “Not from what I saw Abby wear or what I’ve seen recently.”

“If I remember correctly, Abby suddenly launched a maternity line out of left field about a year after Sofie was born. She’d never been interested in maternity before.” Bishop commented quietly. “If I’d been thinking, I would have connected the dots. Abby wasn’t family-oriented. Maternity would be the last stream of income she’d tap under normal circumstances.”

“You’re right.” Aila agreed. “The only reason she launched that line was personal frustration. She couldn’t find anything that fit her sense of style while she was pregnant, so she designed her clothes. On a lark, she decided to add a few of her favorite go-to pieces to her fall line. They sold well, so she added a handful of seasonal day-to-night pieces to the collection every year after Sophie was born. While Mommy Wear wasn’t a major player in the Abby Kinkaid universe, that handful of mix-and-match outfits was a mini gold mine. I hope you plan to keep them.”

“I haven’t thought much about the company.” Bishop admitted. “Not beyond ensuring Abby’s top designers stay with the firm and making sure sound business practices remain in place. Maybe I should call a meeting with Trista and Adam to see exactly where we stand with the collections. Take a more hands-on approach to monitoring Sofie’s inheritance.”

“Maybe you should.” Aila agreed. “We could start by checking out Abby’s latest collection today.”

“Are you sure you’re up to hitting the mall?” Pleased by her affirmative response, considering they had a good hour’s drive ahead of them, Bishop headed her next question off at the pass. “Connie can pick Sofie up from school and take her to dance. She can also keep herself occupied the rest of the day.”

She could keep her overnight if it came to that.

“Right.” Aila snorted at his ingrained arrogance. “I’m sure your assistant will be thrilled to add babysitter and chauffeur to her resume.”

“She will be if I ask her to.” Bishop couldn’t believe Aila thought it mattered if she did. He compensated the woman very well for her time, abilities, and inconveniences. As far as he was concerned, that gave him rights he wouldn’t normally have. It didn’t hurt that he rarely used those rights. He certainly didn’t abuse them. “Sofie loves Connie, and the feeling is mutual. Since I’m taking the rest of today and the weekend off, my assistant can cut out early. The office will take care of itself for a few hours. She’ll appreciate the free time until she needs to pick Sofie up from school. After that, her time belongs to our daughter until she brings her home. Once that’s done, she doesn’t have to worry about Bishop Enterprises until Monday morning. It sounds like a fair trade to me.”

“Then make it happen while I prepare lunch.” Aila motioned to the insulated bag containing their takeout. “Oh, and promise Connie a bonus while you’re at it. Our kid can be a handful when she’s wound up. I promise she’ll be wound up spending the afternoon with someone new.”

Hitting the intercom, Nolan briefly outlined the change in plans with Connie, pleased that she sounded excited to be spending the afternoon with his daughter. Since his assistant was already on the approved list, he didn’t need to notify the school that she would pick Sofie up, although he suspected his wife would call anyway. Just as he knew that they’d call a couple of times throughout the evening to make sure the duo was having fun. Ending his session, Nolan turned to Aila.

“As for that last promise, getting free rein with the company credit card is a bonus enough.” He snorted rudely. “Those two won’t be hanging off monkey bars in the park and grabbing kiddie meals at the fast-food chain. Connie misses her kids, so she’ll spoil Sofie on my dollar doing extravagant things they both enjoy.”

Oh, they’d hit the park all right. It was Sofie’s favorite place, but the hijinks wouldn’t stop there. They’d have a shopping spree of their own and swing by Sofie’s favorite seafood restaurant for grown-up seafood platters complete with cute little animal-shaped doggie bags if he knew Connie, and he did. None of that was cheap. Add in the movie and the treats; the petty cash piggy bank was squealing.

It didn’t hurt that he’d already suggested Connie buy several new suits for their meeting in Tokyo on his dollar. Ones that she wouldn’t buy for herself. She’d probably buy the matching accessories, and that was all right, too. He expected her to look the part, and that didn’t come cheap. Besides, she’d given him twelve years of unfailing loyalty in the face of punishing demands. She deserved to have what she wanted within reason, and Connie always respected reason. He’d given her a generous amount to work with. She’d come in well under that figure, including shoes and handbags, and she’d do him proud. She always did.

“If I know Connie, it probably is.” Aila laughed, knowing he was right. “Just grin and bear it. The woman deserves a little extra for putting up with you all these years.”

“She’s getting that in the form of expensive designer suits for Tokyo.” Nolan rolled his eyes as he finished. “I’m sure Sofie will come home with a few new outfits as well.”

“She’ll enjoy that.” Aila wiped Nolan’s desk and tossed the paper towel in the trash. “That kid loves shopping, whether we buy anything or not. She even likes the grocery store.” Reaching down to rub her tummy, Aila shook her head. “I’m not believing this. I feel like I’ve gotten bigger over the last few minutes. This top fit better before I left the house.”

Bishop wasn’t about to tell her she might be right, but he would concede she had rounded out nicely in all the right places over the past few days. He found the transformation appealing. However, it wasn’t in his best interest to say so. Aila wasn’t handling the changes in her body as well as he expected.

That had more to do with how taxing she found work at this stage in her pregnancy and less to do with her altered shape. Corey assured him Aila would feel better as her pregnancy progressed and her body adjusted to having extra cargo on board. He was taking her at her word. What he did know was that the ambiguous state of their relationship didn’t help matters. Not that anything was ambiguous to him. Aila just chose to keep her blinders on.

After today, it wouldn’t matter. That stressor would be gone. He’d make sure of it. Aila would know exactly where he stood. He was positive their earlier conversation had gone a long way toward reassuring her that he was here to stay. That he’d be right by her side to raise their children and ensure his family was happy and safe in ways her ex never contemplated. It was the least he could do for the woman already giving him so much.

Who knew? Maybe he’d truly fall in love with her before they were done. Maybe he already had. He didn’t know. He did know he cared deeply for her. So deeply he toyed with claiming the emotion, but he wasn’t sure, and he wouldn’t lie to her. He didn’t know if he was even capable of the L-word. But he was willing to try. His wife was worth the effort. She’d just have to be patient and realize he’d never loved anyone before. Not in a romantic way. That he was clueless about how one went about such a thing.

His past relationships were driven more by looks and lust than real emotion. He’d specialized in using and being used from way back. To the credit of both parties, they’d known where they stood from the start, and things were pleasant for as long as the liaison lasted. He could honestly say he’d never had a bad breakup and mean it. Or he hadn’t until Susan and her never-ending greed. Probably because he’d always picked women as emotionally unavailable as he was. Ones who’d viewed him as more of a stepping-stone to their next big accomplishment than a perpetual Sugar Daddy.

Unfortunately, as he found himself floundering in unfamiliar waters, none of that helped him now. He wished it did. There was nothing comfortable about being faced with a situation he wasn’t prepared to handle. He was fast realizing just how different his new life was from his old. How many firsts he had experienced in a few short months? He’d had plenty of sex in his life. He’d never made love. The finesse was there; the emotion was lacking. He’d fathered a child, but he’d never been a father. He’d never lived with a woman. Or loved one. He’d certainly never married one. Not until Aila. He never wanted to. Not with his parents.

They’d been anything but the picture of blissful domesticity. They’d fought like cats and dogs as long as he could remember. In fact, by the time he’d been old enough to care, Bishop was glad his father was gone more than he was home. Even if that meant his mother cried a lot. At least they weren’t arguing, slamming doors, and throwing things. He was happy when they finally ended their marriage. There was a sudden peace he’d never known before.

He'd stayed with his mother after the separation as his father wished. Over the years, he’d had little use for the man who’d let him go so easily. Not until they’d reconciled a few short years before his death, when he learned the truth of the matter. His mother was hardly the innocent victim of the older, wealthy philanderer she’d claimed to be. She’d been one of his many flings. To be more precise, she’d been the torrid affair that ended his first marriage. She’d also been the only other woman his father loved enough to marry.

From what Nolan Sr. said, they’d been happy for a few years. Until his mother started taking their relationship for granted. In time, he’d felt more like her personal bank account than her lover. He’d quickly fallen back into old habits to deal with his emotions. Instead of working to repair her marriage, his mother had taken the easy way out. She’d engineered a convenient pregnancy that hadn’t worked out the way she planned. Instead of bringing them closer together, they’d drifted farther apart. In the end, his mother doted on him, and his father doted on his other women. Eventually, their relationship imploded for the same reason his first marriage had. The only difference, this time around, his mother played the wronged wife instead of the victorious other woman.

Personally, Nolan thought his parents deserved each other. At least at that stage of their selfish lives. They’d both reformed later, and he respected them for it. However, his early life was hell due to the constant tit-for-tat infidelities his parents indulged in. If he closed his eyes, he could still recall walking in on his father with his head thrown back and his secretary’s face buried in his lap in vivid technicolor. While the child didn’t know what he was witnessing at the time, the man now did.

He’d had similar experiences with his mother. He still recalled walking into their family room to see his bare-breasted mother straddling his godfather on the couch with her dress ruched about her hips. Although they hadn’t seen him, he’d never forgotten the sight of his mother grunting and grinding her way to orgasm with Uncle Barry. Shaking his head, Bishop knew he would have been a much happier child if his parents had acted like adults from the start and divorced before things got so bad. To her credit, his mother married a good man a few years after returning to Scotland and settled into faithful domesticity.

His father wisely never married again. He did, however, keep constant female companionship, although he kept his romantic entanglements limited to one woman at a time. He’d had the same girlfriend for years by the time he quietly passed away in his sleep. One who’d been well rewarded for her devotion while she was still young enough to enjoy her ill-gotten gains. Nolan snorted at the thought that the woman deserved every cent she inherited. She’d paid for her riches in emotional blood.

Unlike most of his father’s “friends,” Tessa was more than a pretty face. She was a well-educated junior executive in his Sydney office when his father charmed her into his bed. Although he didn’t like it, he’d given his blessing when she revealed their relationship. Her private life wasn’t a conflict of interest since he and his father weren’t business competitors. He owned a substantial interest in his father’s company, and he’d inherited the rest when he passed away.

What Bishop didn’t like was the very real possibility that his father would hurt a woman he respected greatly. While he was surprised that it never happened, he wasn’t surprised when Tessa gave up her lucrative job to tend to his father when his health declined. He understood why she’d sacrificed everything for a man more than thirty years her senior. She’d loved his father as much as it was possible to love Nolan, Sr. She’d paid for that love, too. Enough so that he didn’t begrudge her a dime of her inheritance. Nor did he mind that his father left her stock in the company he now owned. She was entitled to that, too.

Not that he had much room to talk. He’d followed in his father’s footsteps in more ways than one. Fortunately, learning he had a daughter forced him to take a long, hard look at his life. Not liking what he saw, he chose to do what was best for his child and took the road he never thought he’d travel. He was glad he had. He would have lost the best days of his life if he hadn’t. Turning his attention back to his wife, he realized Aila was staring at him.

“You ready to go?” She blinked, a little confused he’d so clearly phased out. That wasn’t the man she’d come to know. Nolan Bishop was always on point and ready for anything. “I’d say a penny for your thoughts, but I don’t think you’d share.”

“Probably not.” Nolan agreed. “They aren’t worth a penny.”

They were worth a whole lot more. But he wasn’t ready to reveal them yet. He still had things to work through. Once he did, they’d have a long overdue conversation. Until then, he wasn’t bearing his soul. He had a feeling that anything he said right now was far more likely to set them back than help the situation in any way.

“Right.” She didn’t believe him. “We’ll talk when you’re ready.”

“Yes, we will,” Bishop promised, linking her hand through his. “Right now, we need to get on the road, or we’ll run out of time.”

CHAPTER TWENTY-TWO

“I can’t believe we bought this much.” Aila looked at the bags being loaded into the car. “I only needed a couple of outfits to tide me over for the next few weeks.”

“You needed everything.” Bishop corrected her. “Things you won’t buy unless I make you.”

As glad as he was that his wife wasn’t a mindless shopaholic, Aila still lived like she had before they married. Like she was the sole provider for her family, when nothing could be further from the truth. He was a very wealthy man. She could have anything she wanted. He’d made that clear before they married. However, she’d never taken advantage of his generosity, and he doubted she ever would.

While he appreciated that in other women, he didn’t with his wife. He understood how her mind worked. Aila refused to be dependent on him. To live beyond her means. She still feared the fantasy would poof away one day. That their marriage would fall apart. As much as he hated her being that way, he couldn’t do anything but reassure her that everything was going to be okay.

“I didn’t need this much.” Aila closed the door behind her. “You know I’m only going to get bigger and bigger until the baby’s born, so we’ll have to do this all over again soon.”

“I don’t know that.” Bishop turned the key in the ignition and backed out of the parking space. “You won’t gain another ten pounds before you’re done. You’ll still fit into almost everything when you do. That’s why we bought a couple of different sizes, so you won’t have to do this again.”

Shaking his head, he knew what he was saying was true. Aila wouldn’t gain a pound more than Corey deemed appropriate. She hadn’t gained quite as much as she should have by now, thanks to lingering morning sickness. Even when she was back on track, she wouldn’t outgrow a single thing they’d bought by the end of her pregnancy. She was just too disciplined when it came to taking care of herself. She’d been a single parent and the sole caretaker of their daughter for too long to suddenly give up her healthy lifestyle.

“However, if we’ve miscalculated, we’ll do what we have to do. You know that.” He couldn’t help laughing at her just a little. “If we need to make a second trip, we’ll bring Sofie along and make a day of it. Hit the zoo and a few other places.”

“She’d like that.” Aila agreed. “You’re probably right. I’m worrying about nothing.”

“When you don’t need to worry at all.” He reached over to pat her hand. “We’ve got everything under control.”

“I suppose we do.” Aila agreed. “Thanks to you.”

“That’s what I’m here for.” Bishop put both hands back on the wheel. “To make things easier for you. We did a good job picking everything out, and I think we covered all the bases from casual to dressier occasions.”

“I think you’re right.” Aila agreed. “Although I’m not looking forward to anything formal until after this kid is born.”

“You never know what might pop up.” Bishop reminded her. “The good part is that everything is classic. You’ll have your basic wardrobe hanging in the closet if we decide to do this again.” He ignored the shocked eyes turned in his direction. “All you’ll need to do is add a few new pieces here and there to update your look.”

“If we decide to do this again?” Resting her hand against her belly, Aila almost hyperventilated. “Are you serious?”

“I’m not going anywhere.” Bishop gently reminded her. “We’re happy together. Your pregnancy is going well, and Sofie wants more siblings. Why wouldn’t we have another child or two before we’re done? You’re young enough, and we can certainly afford it.”

“I don’t know.” Aila rudely snarked. “Maybe because we’ve never discussed the possibility. This one wasn’t even planned.”

“We’re discussing it now,” Bishop told her quietly. “I’m telling you that I’m willing if you are when the time is right.”

“Okay.” Aila processed his words. “When the time is right, I think I’d like that.”

“I thought you might.” The woman was a natural mother, and he’d discovered he wasn’t half-bad as a dad. “I know I’m enjoying every moment with Sofie. She’s a great kid. I also know you get all the credit for that.”

“I wouldn’t go that far.” Aila closed her eyes. “I’ve had a lot of help from a lot of good people over the years.”

“Yes, you have.” Bishop agreed. “I won’t deny that. But we both know it’s the one-on-one time you spend with Sofie that makes her who she is. That comes at a cost.”

“If you mean a social life, that’s a small price to pay.” Aila smiled. “Sofie gives me so much more than I had before. Besides, I’d always intended to start dating again when my daughter was older. When she didn’t need me so much. Now I don’t have to.”

Reaching out to briefly hold Bishop’s hand, Aila closed her eyes, never seeing the look that said he knew better. Maybe at some point, she would have confronted her ghosts and laid her pain to rest, but he doubted it. Not without a catalyst. Aila was more like Abby than she cared to admit. As tough as his wife was, there were issues she wouldn’t handle head-on. That whole Jason incident was one of them. Her feelings for him were another.

“No, you don’t.” Bishop squeezed her hand before releasing it to put his hand back on the wheel. “Neither of us does, now take your nap. I’ll wake you when we’re home. If you feel up to it, we’ll take Sofie to Sadie’s and a movie.”

“Sounds like a plan.” Closing her eyes, Aila wasn’t surprised Bishop knew her and what she needed so well. “I don’t think I’ll be out that long.”

She just needed a short power nap to get her through the rest of the day, and she’d be fine.

###

Blinking awake to the sight of a familiar garage around her, Aila realized she’d slept the whole drive home. She must have been more depleted than she knew, especially considering her husband was nowhere in sight. Taking a glance at the back seat, she saw it was empty. Somehow, Bishop had managed to get her purchases inside without waking her. That she’d slept through the noise only confirmed how badly she needed rest.

“You’re finally awake.” Aila watched Bishop open her door. “I’ve put everything away, so all you need to do is relax until Sofie comes home.”

“You didn’t have to do that.” Aila took his hand and let him pull her gently from the seat. “But thank you anyway.”

“You’re welcome.” Bishop closed the door. “I like doing things for you.” When she let him. “Just like you enjoy doing things for me.” Like bringing lunch for them to share. “Why don’t you change into one of your new outfits while I check my messages? You’ll be more comfortable.”

“I think I will.” Aila agreed as she headed for the stairs. “Do you have any preferences?”

“Surprise me.” She wouldn’t appreciate what he wanted to see most. “I’ll meet you in the den in a few.”

“Sounds good.” Walking up the stairs, Aila ticked through her new outfits in her mind, deciding on a casual pair of stretchy leggings and a soft lavender beaded print tunic over something dressier. “Sofie won’t care what I’m wearing anyway.” She spoke out loud as she pulled the outfit from her drawer.

Quickly shucking her too-tight clothes for the comfy pants and top, she wiggled her red-tipped toes, deciding to forgo shoes in favor of the freedom she hadn’t had all day. Touching up her makeup and dragging a brush through her hair, Aila studied her reflection before deciding she would do. She’d more than do. She looked chic and self-confident in her new outfit.

Even with Abby gone, it was clear her designers were keeping her aesthetic in place. The newest pieces in her maternity line shouted, “Abby Kincaid” without seeing the label. Smiling a little at that thought, Aila flipped the light switch and walked downstairs. She’d taken longer than she meant to, so Bishop had more than enough time to do what needed to be done. Ambling into the kitchen, she poured a glass of sparkling water and headed in the direction of his office.

“Who was that on the phone?” Aila watched him hang up his cell. “I know it wasn’t work.”

She hoped it wasn’t.

“It wasn’t.” Bishop rose to his feet. “It was Connie wanting to keep Sofie overnight. It seems they’re in the middle of a massive movie marathon complete with pizza, popcorn, and jellybeans. She wants to bring her home when they get done tomorrow. I didn’t think you’d mind, so I said yes. They bought everything Sofie would need for a sleepover while they were out, so it isn’t a spur-of-the-moment deal.”

“Oh.” Aila wasn’t sure whether to be upset that Nolan hadn’t consulted her about the sleepover or be relieved their day wasn’t ending. “That means we have the evening to ourselves. Wow, that’s never happened before. I’m not sure how to act.”

“Don’t act any differently than you normally do.” Bishop laughed at her reaction. “Just be grateful Connie’s having a blast with the kid, and change into your new animal print dress. We have reservations at The Lodge in a little over an hour, and it’ll take us a good thirty minutes to get there.”

“How did you manage that?” Aila didn’t see how she could get ready so fast. “There’s a months-long waiting list to get in.”

“Not when you know the owners,” Nolan informed her. “I’ve known Richard since I was young, and Delilah for a good ten years. I put them on alert weeks ago that I’d like to bring you in when we get a free night. I called them as soon as Connie called me. It seems they had a last-minute cancellation, so we’re in.”

It wouldn’t have mattered if they hadn’t. Richard assured him they would find a place for them when the time was right. He’d taken him at his word, and the Chef had done as promised. They were getting two of the best seats in the house.

“Or we will be if you’ll get ready.” Nolan followed Aila up the stairs, urging his wife to get a move on when she’d rather talk. “We can discuss whatever’s on your mind on the drive over.”

Nodding, Aila did as he asked. There was more than enough time to satisfy her curiosity after she was done. Quickly brightening her makeup, she washed her hands and slid into her new dress and sensible heels before surveying her reflection one final time. She wasn’t going to change her jewelry. She didn’t need to.

The gold Byzantine chain with the leopard heads complemented the gold in the silk leopard print wrap dress that flowed gently over her curves. The matching earrings completed her look. Nodding at her image, she turned and headed for the stairs, confident that she looked nice for such a quick throw-together. From the appreciative look in Nolan’s eyes, she must look better than she thought.

###

Studying the large, rustic building as they pulled into the parking lot, Aila was excited that they were finally there. However, she wasn’t as excited that the parking lot was overflowing. The thought of a long walk from the backside of hell wasn’t appealing after a long, active day. Watching Bishop scope out the lot, she couldn’t believe it when he finally located the one recently vacated space close to the entrance. Pleased that she didn’t have a long walk, Aila turned her attention to more important things. Hopefully, the restaurant being at full capacity was an indication that the food was as good as the hype. She was counting on it. She hadn’t eaten that much earlier, and Nolan’s kid was ravenous.

“From the look on your face, I’d say you’re hungry.” Bishop laughed as he helped her out of the car. “Don’t look so put out that I know your secrets. Lunch was a long time ago, and you barely ate anything.” He wasn’t surprised that Susan’s antics had spoiled her appetite since he wasn’t that hungry either. “I’m looking forward to seeing that menu myself.”

“Right.” Aila smiled at the casually protective way he draped his arm around her waist as though she were truly precious to him. “I never used to get hungry like this. Your kid makes me want to eat like a horse.”

“Right.” Bishop echoed her words as he dropped a kiss on the top of her head before opening the door. “I’ll let you know when that’s a problem. Right now, your body is trying to catch up to the weight you should have gained by now and haven’t.”

Stepping up to the hostess stand, Bishop confirmed their reservation, pleased they’d arrived at the restaurant with five minutes to spare. Following the attractive teen, he wasn’t surprised to see a familiar blonde fly out of the kitchen.

“Bishop!” The vivacious woman ran into Bishop’s waiting arms and hugged him tightly. “Richard told me you were dropping in tonight. I didn’t believe him.”

“Well, you should have.” Bishop gently coaxed Aila forward. “Lilah, this is Aila, my wife. Aila, meet Delilah.” Finishing the introductions, he walked across the room to hug a dark-haired man only a couple of inches shorter than him, who suddenly appeared around the corner. “This is Richard, Lilah’s less attractive other half. They’ll both be joining us for dinner.”

Stepping forward, Aila exchanged greetings with the rather dapper man, still giving her husband a run for his money in the trash-talk department.

“I won’t say you’re a lucky girl,” Richard stated honestly as he gave her a rather amused once-over. “I will say Bishop’s a lucky man. From what I’ve heard, you’re much too nice and pretty to be stuck with a bounder like him.”

“Speak for yourself.” Bishop pulled out Aila’s chair and helped her settle comfortably in place before he scooted her a little closer to the table. “However, I happen to agree with you. She is much too nice and pretty for me, but we make it work.”

Turning to glance at his wife, Bishop wasn’t all that surprised to realize Aila was having a hard time not laughing at the foolishness between him and one of his oldest friends. As true as Richard’s words were and as attractive as Delilah was, he couldn’t help thinking he’d made the better choice. Lilah was a truly exceptional woman. She just wasn’t exceptional enough. That honor belonged to his wife. Reaching under the table to find Aila’s hand, he lightly gripped her fingers reassuringly.

“Bishop didn’t tell us you were expecting,” Delilah spoke suddenly from the other side of the table. “Congratulations, that’s a wonderful surprise. I’ll bet Sofie’s excited to have a new brother or sister on the way.”

While she didn’t know everything, it was obvious Nolan had kept the other couple in the loop about the changes in his life. Why he hadn’t told them about the newest addition was a mystery. Maybe he wanted to surprise them as he had. Or maybe he just wanted to deal with Delilah’s questions face-to-face in front of his wife. Aila didn’t know. It didn’t matter. They knew the truth now.

“Richard and I have two rambunctious boys.” Lilah volunteered. “Liam is five and Tristan is three. Do you know what you’re having?”

“Not yet.” Their little one refused to cooperate with the technician. “We’re hoping to find out at our next appointment.”

“Good luck with that.” Richard turned to his wife. “We thought we were having a girl until Trist finally decided to prove otherwise a month before he was born. Our doctor caught glimpses suggesting a girl. Although it wasn’t conclusive, we chose to go with her educated guess and wished we hadn’t. That pink nursery turned green faster than we thought possible. I don’t think you’ll be that lucky. Since Bishop’s the dad, I doubt you’ll know until it’s born.”

“Thanks, Buddy.” Nolan shook his head as he watched a server fill his water glass. “My son isn’t an 'it,” and that’s just what my wife needs to hear.”

“I doubt anything I say will shock Aila if she isn’t surprised your closest friends still call you Bishop.” Richard shook his head in mock disgust. “I suspect she already knows how stubborn you are. I’d say she already has you figured out, although I don’t think you can say the same.”

“Richard, honestly, I don’t think Aila’s ready to see you guys going at it.” Lilah lightly smacked his arm. “Ignore them. They scrap like two dogs over a bone, but God help anyone who tries the same. They’ve got each other’s backs like nothing I’ve ever seen.”

Nodding, Aila didn’t say anything. It wasn’t necessary. She could see how close they were, even if Bishop hadn’t already told her Richard was the brother he’d never had. Once she’d heard the man’s thick Scottish accent, she knew her husband wasn’t exaggerating when he said he and Richard had known each other from the cradle. He wasn’t a lying man. Watching their server bring their appetizer to the table, Aila realized their menu was already pre-selected. No doubt Richard wanted to show them the best of what his farm-to-table restaurant had to offer.

That wasn’t a problem. There wasn’t much she couldn’t eat since she’d saved her restricted foods for the weekend. She just had to make sure meat was thoroughly cooked and indulged in moderation, which wasn’t an issue. She wasn’t pigging out just because she felt better. She’d made that mistake once and paid dearly for it. Besides, she was more interested in the easy, entertaining conversation flowing so naturally around her than she was in food anyway.

CHAPTER TWENTY-THREE

Walking through the door, Aila kicked off her shoes and headed for the kitchen, leaving Nolan to lock up. She’d had a wonderful evening until she was blindsided by a truth she hadn’t seen coming. It wasn’t anything tangible that anyone said or did. Not really. That certain something niggling at her subconscious all night suddenly struck her across the face on the ride home. She felt foolish that she hadn’t seen it from the start. Nolan and Delilah were just too in synch for the truth to be otherwise. They’d almost completed each other’s sentences, which was weird considering they weren’t that close anymore.

“What’s wrong now?” Bishop stood in the doorway watching her absently swipe at a spotless countertop. “I thought we had an enjoyable evening.”

“We did.” Aila agreed. “The food was wonderful and the company better.”

“Then what’s wrong?” Bishop repeated, knowing he was going to regret pursuing this point. “You went from talking nonstop on the ride home to total silence.”

“Why didn’t you tell me you and Delilah were an item?” Aila draped the cloth over the sink. “The truth hit me in the car.”

“Because I didn’t think it mattered,” Bishop answered honestly. “We were over a long time ago.”

“But you’re still close friends.” Aila had a hard time getting her mind around that. “Still intimately in each other’s lives.”

There was no denying that. If it had been possible, Richard would have stood by Nolan as his best man. It hadn’t been. Richard and Delilah were in England handling a serious family emergency instead. If they’d been at the wedding, Aila would have met them. She’d have probably learned the truth that night when they were talking in bed. Somehow, he believed she would have handled it better back then. He was sure of it. She wasn’t yet as emotionally invested in their marriage as she was now.

“Yes, we are.” Bishop agreed. “Richard is my closest friend and has been since childhood. Lilah is his wife. One doesn’t come without the other, so, yes, we’re all close.”

Somehow, his words only made things worse, and they both knew it.

“You should have told me.” Aila refused to look at Bishop. “Not hoped I’d miss the truth.”

“In the first place, I don’t care if you know the truth.” Nolan gently cupped her cheek, pleased when she instinctively leaned into his touch. “I never tried to keep anything from you. Not Susan, not Delilah, not any of it. In the second, I didn’t want to prejudice you against a good woman I thought you’d like. Aila, you need friends in my world, and Lilah is one you can trust. She already sees you as a friend, and I think you should take her up on her offer.”

Bishop wrapped his arms lightly around her waist, resting his palms against her belly.

“One day, you’re going to realize you can’t feel threatened every time we run into some woman from my past. If you do, we’ll both go nuts. As much as it shames me to say it, while I wasn’t a full-blown womanizer, I wasn’t a saint. Since you’re moving in my circles now, we’re bound to run into a past liaison now and then. I won’t call them lovers because we weren’t in love. For the most part, I was a stepping stone to bigger and better things, and they were pleasant interludes before I moved on. While I wish I’d lived my life differently for your sake, neither of us can undo the past.”

“Then maybe you should give me a heads up before it happens again.” While she’d handled meeting Delilah with grace, that was largely because she hadn’t figured out exactly what they’d been to each other until the evening was over. “It’s a little disconcerting coming face to face with a woman who’s seen your husband naked more times than you have.”

Nolan bit back the very real desire to ask her whose fault that was.

“While I wish I could tell you Delilah and I were never more than friends, I can’t. I will share our story. We met years ago when she worked for the firm renovating a boutique hotel I’d recently bought in the south of France. The hotel was a small 12th-century castle that needed minor updating, which turned out to be far more complicated than it seemed.” Catching her eye, he continued talking. “Looks aside, Delilah is a talented Architectural Engineer and an interesting, well-educated woman. I was impressed with her, so, yes, when our paths crossed a few months after the job was finished, I asked her out.”

Bishop gently stroked her back.

“We shared a lot of outside interests, so we hit it off and dated for a year or so. However, when I introduced her to Richard, we were done. I saw that very real, very deep connection we didn’t have the moment they met, so I bowed out immediately.” Nolan admitted. “While Lilah’s a wonderful woman and probably the closest I’ve ever come to a serious relationship other than you, I didn’t love her, nor did I want to spend the rest of my life with her.”

It was no secret she’d felt the same.

“Richard was a different story. One that you’ve already seen. He proposed a month after they met, and she had a ring on her finger six months later. It would have been quicker if his parents hadn’t demanded a proper wedding. They’ve been happily married for seven years. They’ll be together to the end.”

From what she’d seen, Aila thought the same. She’d never seen two people so independent yet so madly in love. Being in their presence made her heart ache, knowing she wanted the same.

“Aila, whatever crazy thoughts are flickering through your head, get over them. They’re all screwed up.” Bishop rubbed her arm. “There’s no comparison between what we have and what I had with Lilah or any other woman. When you finally stop making me pay for another man’s sins, you’ll see how special we are.”

“Maybe.” Aila closed her eyes briefly, thinking special wasn’t love, but it was better than lust. “She’s just so beautiful and I’m so…”

Her sweeping hand gesture mocked her expanding girth.

“Voluptuous?” Bishop dropped a kiss on the exposed curve of her shoulder. “Desirable, shapely, sensual, sexy?” He noted the color high on her cheeks. “You have to know I’m intensely attracted to your…” Bishop mimicked her earlier gesture. “I haven’t done anything to hide it.”

“What I do know is you’re full of it.” Aila couldn’t help laughing at his lecherous expression. “Who knew the great Nolan Bishop was a goof?”

“Only with his wife,” Bishop stated bluntly. “You’re taking all this way too seriously. Do I like you better when you’re your usual slender self?” He caught her huff that he dared go there with a pregnant woman. “Yes, but not for the reason you think. Not because you’re thinner, but because you’re more comfortable in your skin. With the body that you know. Right now, all of this is new and unsettling for both of us. But don’t think for one second that I’m turned off by your expanding curves. The opposite is true. I love every change. That’s my kid in there, and it’s exciting.”

“You’re seriously turned on by this?” Aila quirked a brow at him. “You are so weird.”

“I’m a man, and I don’t think there’s anything weird about my feelings.” Bishop hugged her a little tighter. “You work with pregnant women every day. I’m sure you’ve noticed that I did that swagger in their men. Don’t tell me you haven’t because I know you have.”

“Maybe I never really thought about it.” Maybe she kept her work relationships friendly but professional because it hurt too much to do otherwise. “I do see the way they act with each other. I’d have to be blind not to.”

“You want what they have,” Bishop said what she won’t. “Well, I feel the same. I want everything Abby denied me. I want to experience all the moments I missed with Sofie. Moments I know I wouldn’t have had even if I’d known she was pregnant. Moments we couldn’t have because we weren’t a couple. Moments I can have with you because we are.”

“I guess you weren’t.” Aila agreed. “You don’t have to worry about missing anything. I gave you my word we’d share this, and I meant it.”

Like it or not, they were. The good and the bad. Even the bouts of nasty morning sickness that weren’t confined to the morning and, thankfully, seemed to be getting better. Nolan had proven surprisingly resilient and eager to help her through the most unpleasant moments. He had been from the start. She supposed, if she had to get accidentally pregnant, she’d picked the right man. That they happened to be married didn’t hurt either.

“Aila, don’t.” Bishop’s tone was weary as he dropped another kiss on her hair. “Not tonight. Why don’t you change into something more comfortable while I make one last overseas call? After that, I’m all yours. As much as I love our daughter, I want to enjoy the child-free hours we have left.”

“I can do that.” Aila agreed, already longing for her comfortable pajamas. “While this dress is nice, I’m ready for a change.”

Bishop laughed as he left the room, knowing his idea of something comfortable and Aila’s were two different things. The last thing she’d wear was anything slinky or sexy. Forget the cute little strappy gown sets they’d bought earlier today. Her mind wouldn’t go there yet. His wife was far more likely to return in the familiar tank top and sleep pants she wore when Sofie was around.

Aila just couldn’t get her mind around the fact that their lives had changed. That she had a husband now. One who adored and desired her. That it was okay to be a woman and not just a mother. That he might appreciate the effort even if it didn’t get him anywhere. He found great comfort in just holding her, even when they didn’t do anything more.

Eventually, she’d get the message. He’d see to that. For now, he’d leave her in peace. He needed to get that phone call done so they could move on with their evening. Closing the door to his office, Bishop checked his calendar and dialed a number. The faster he confirmed this appointment, the quicker he could get on with getting on.

###

Looking at herself in the mirror, Aila felt a moment of panic. What would Nolan think? She hoped he wouldn’t read more into the situation than she meant. That he’d realize she just wanted a change. But, not that much of a change. Not yet. They’d had a wonderful evening, omitting the Delilah incident, and Nolan deserved a reward for his trouble.

He probably expected her to appear in the familiar bunny pajamas and matching floppy-eared slippers with googley eyes. He’d seen them often enough. She wore them all the time for Sofie. What could she say? Her daughter liked seeing her mom in her latest birthday gift, and the drawstring pants still fit. For now. If she fastened them low under her belly and pulled her shirt down. Laughing at the image popping into her head, Aila decided that was close enough for family life.

However, the family wasn’t here right now, so Nolan was in for a big surprise. She was wearing one of the new sets they’d bought earlier today. She thought she’d choose the short poppy red silk gown with the pretty floral print over the black and gold animal print or the cobalt jacquard. She might even wear the matching robe and red Marabou slippers. Her husband would certainly appreciate seeing the complete ensemble. They’d spent long enough picking it out.

Shaking her head at the thought, Aila realized this was the first adult night she’d enjoyed since she kicked Jason out of her life. The casual dates she’d shared with her attorney friend didn’t count. While she’d enjoyed his company, neither of them pursued anything more romantic than the briefest peck on the lips. She had more with Nolan in their first month of marriage than she had in the six months she’d dated Greg. Hearing a sound behind her, Aila turned to face her husband.

“Conversation went well?” She blinked at the sudden wave of attraction she felt seeing that disgustingly fit man wearing his new black paisley silk pajama bottoms slung low on his hips. “You’re back quicker than I expected.”

“The conversation was fine.” Nolan handed her a glass of sparkling grape juice. “There were several appointments we left hanging. I needed to verify they were set with Mr. Kobayashi’s executive assistant, or there isn’t any point in flying to Tokyo. Mei assured me they were, so I’ve done what I needed to do. I also have a few meetings with business interests that have nothing to do with hotels. If everything goes well, I should be home in eight weeks instead of the ten to twelve weeks projected.”

“I didn’t realize you would be gone so long.” Unlike with most of his trips, Nolan hadn’t given her a time frame for his Pacific Rim jaunt. “This must be an important deal.”

While he kept her loosely in the loop, Aila wasn’t involved in his day-to-day business dealings by any means. She knew what was going on, but she didn’t know the intimate details. Not that her husband wouldn’t tell her. It was more than she’d ever asked. He probably thought she wasn’t interested when the opposite was true. She just didn’t want to pry. They didn’t have that kind of marriage. Or maybe they did, and she wouldn’t let them.

She was so confused, she didn’t know what to think except he was cutting it close to her due date. She had fourteen weeks to go, which meant she was due exactly twelve weeks from his departure date to the day. If his meetings ran over, Ethan could be born without him. Somehow, Aila didn’t see that happening. The man was much too excited to meet his son. While he couldn’t change the dates for his meetings, she had a feeling he would leave early before he missed the momentous event.

“It is.” Nolan set his glass on the dresser. “Very important. If things work out, this will be our first foray into Asia proper. I inherited several hotels in Russia from my father, but they’re around Moscow and St. Petersburg, so they don’t count. I’ll tell you more about what I’m investigating over breakfast if you want.”

“I’d like that.” Aila followed suit and set her glass on the dresser. “I’d like to know more about your business.”

“Then I’ll answer any questions you have tomorrow,” Nolan promised. “Now, I just want to spend my downtime with you, not thinking about work.” Aila wasn’t pleased with the way her heart sped up at his words. “I wasn’t expecting this.” He gently fingered one silky strap. “We did well. You look beautiful.”

She’d look prettier out of it, but he wasn’t going there yet.

“Thanks.” Aila knew she was blushing like a kid. “You have good taste.”

“I might have good taste, but you wear it well.” Nolan took a step closer to her. “You looked beautiful earlier this evening, and you look beautiful now.”

“You don’t look so bad yourself.” Aila hesitantly placed her palm against his chest. “Although it seems you lost your shirt somewhere along the way. If I didn’t know better, I’d think you were trying to tempt me. But I do, so I just think you’re hot.”

“You just think I’m hot?” Nolan laughed softly at her double entendre, wondering what kind of game Aila was playing. “I think you’re pretty hot, too.”

“You do?” Aila blinked at him in that silly, startled deer way he found endearing. “No way.”

“I do.” He found the blush suddenly dusting her cheeks charming. “I wouldn’t say it otherwise.”

Deciding to press his luck, Bishop pulled her in for a kiss, enjoying the feel of her body against his.

“I think this is what got us in trouble in the first place.” Leaning slightly into his chest, Aila closed her eyes against the feel of fingers gently dragging her gown over her head. “This whole touchy-feely thing.”

“Maybe.” Bishop agreed. “But I’m willing to take my chances.”

“You’re willing to take your chances?” Aila took a step back, unconsciously crossing her arms over her breasts. “What’s that supposed to mean?”

“That you can’t get pregnant again.” Bishop dropped another kiss on her lips. “And that you aren’t the only vulnerable one here. I’ve got a couple of strikes against me as well.”

“Oh, yeah?” Aila combed her fingers gently through the hairs on his chest. “Like what?”

“Try, you aren’t one of my usual flings.” Bishop smiled indulgently, knowing she knew she was tickling him. “You’re my wife and the mother of my unborn child. That alters the emotional playing field for me. It has from the beginning.”

Seeing the unguarded look in his eyes, it finally sank in that Bishop was as defenseless as she was. Thinking back, he hadn’t been completely comfortable with the idea of marrying anyone. He thought it best for Sofie, so he’d been willing to take that step, but he’d sacrificed as much as she had. Maybe more. She changed addresses. Bishop changed his whole way of life. Maybe it was time she did the same. Stopped being afraid of what might happen and appreciated what already had. It made sense. She couldn’t undo what was done. More importantly, she didn’t want to.

“Everything changed the moment I put that ring on your finger,” Bishop admitted quietly, remembering the sudden surge of emotions he’d refused to identify. “You ceased to be the convenience I married for Sofie’s sake. You became more.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?” She didn’t like being a convenience, even if she’d felt the same.

“It means you need to follow your heart.” Bishop was frustrated. “We’ll both be a lot happier if you do.”

He might be right.

“It means I don’t feel the way I thought I would.” He finally declared. “It means we’re anything but casual. That we’re it for each other. I know it, and I think you do, too.”

Aila looked away at the truth of his words.

“Look at me.” Bishop forced her head up. “I don’t want Susan or Lilah or any of those other women. I want you, and I want what we have. I’m going to pursue us with a relentlessness you’ve never seen. While you can turn me away, I hope you won’t. For both our sakes.”

Wrapping his arms around her, Nolan rested his chin lightly on the top of her head. He was at his wits’ end. Nothing he did seemed to work permanently. He’d told her how he felt too many times to recount. He’d shown her. He’d married her. He’d made love to her. He’d given her his child. He didn’t know what more he could do except repeat the cycle week after week until she finally believed.

“I’m happy to have you and Sofie in my life. I’m even happier we’re adding to our family.” He dropped a kiss on her nose. “It’s not what I thought I wanted. I was wrong. Over the last few weeks, I’ve realized I like having all of this. I can’t see my life without it. Without you.”

Feeling her tremble at his words, Nolan gently rubbed her back.

“Aila, let the past go.” His tone was more commanding than he’d ever used with her. “We passed the point of no return a lifetime ago. We’ve got nowhere to go but forward if you’ll let us.”

“I want to.” Aila was surprised to realize something deep inside had finally broken, and her words rang true. “I do.”

“Then do it and let’s be happy together.” Closing his eyes, Bishop felt like they might be turning that elusive corner he’d fought so hard to reach. The one where they slowly made forward progress instead of constantly losing ground. He’d believed they’d turned it several times before. Sadly, he’d been wrong. “Stop letting fear hold you back. Give us that chance you keep promising me. We have too much to lose to let past betrayals hold us back. There are no guarantees in life, but we have to take the chance.”

Ignoring the image of Susan kissing her husband, flicking through her mind, Aila refused to let her insecurities override reason. Nolan hadn’t kissed the woman back. She’d seen that with her own eyes. He hadn’t betrayed her even though he’d had the perfect chance. For one thing, he hadn’t known she was there until after he’d rejected Susan’s advances. For another, it would have been easy to resume a relationship so recently ended. To just pick up where they’d left off, like nothing happened. Susan was willing. But her husband was not. That alone earned him the chance she hadn’t fully given.

“I want to,” Aila repeated against his chest. “I do.”

“Then stop wanting and do it,” Nolan responded. “It’s not that hard if you try.”

Aila nodded, knowing he was right. His words were more than she expected and less than she wanted, but she’d take them. “I’m not sure what I’m feeling either, but I know I want a real marriage, and I can’t imagine my life without you either.”

“That’s good to know.” Nolan leaned his forehead against hers. “Then we both feel the same.”

Wrapping her arms around his neck, Aila pulled him into a kiss that conveyed everything she was too scared to say. Bishop returned her kiss. However, this time was different. She could feel it in his touch. If she reneged on her promise, her husband would take what she wouldn’t give. Capturing his gaze, she saw the truth in his eyes and felt the truth in her body. She knew with every claiming thrust that Bishop meant every ruthless word he’d spoken. He would pursue her relentlessly until she capitulated in ways she hadn’t before.

That man would treat their bedroom like his boardroom until she was his. Until he owned her heart, body, and soul. Aila wasn’t under any illusions that he couldn’t do it. He could, he would, and she’d let him. Bishop was her husband, and she loved him. However, she’d much rather surrender peacefully than undertake a full-blown erotic assault she wasn’t emotionally equipped to handle. He’d turn her inside out without really trying if she didn’t. She already knew that.

###

Feeling a masculine arm resting lightly against bare skin, Aila gradually became aware that, unlike last time, she hadn’t slipped back into her gown at some point during the night. Not only had she not redressed, but neither had Nolan. She wasn’t sure how she felt about that. Right now, she was enjoying the intimacy.

It felt like old times. Like those rare, lazy Saturday mornings when neither she nor Jason had to work. They’d awaken in each other’s arms and spend the day talking and making love. Or she’d thought that was what they were doing. She was wrong. However, this didn’t feel like that. Not in any way. She’d willingly concede what Nolan had done to her, and with her, didn’t feel like sex. It felt like love. The real deal. That scary something she’d never had.

Holding the sheets to her chest, Aila sat up and looked around for her gown, settling instead for the matching robe she’d left draped across a chair. Rising to her feet, she slid into the garment before casting a glance at the bed. Surprisingly, all of her moving around hadn’t disturbed her husband. Making her way to the door, she carefully slipped out of the room and down the stairs.

Padding into the kitchen, she quickly made a pot of coffee before opening the refrigerator to gather the ingredients she’d need to make scrambled eggs and toast. While it was nothing special, Nolan preferred to keep breakfast simple. All she had to do was throw some cheese in the eggs at the appropriate time, and they were good to go. Reaching for a slice of bread, Aila almost jumped out of her skin when she felt masculine arms wrap around her from behind.

“Why don’t you leave that for later and come back to bed?” Nolan reached out to turn the oven off. “We can go out for brunch if you’d like. That dive around the corner does a mean pancake platter.”

“We can do that.” Aila watched him put the ingredients back in the refrigerator before gently steering her towards the stairs. “I wasn’t hungry anyway. I just wanted to pay you back for taking care of me yesterday.”

“You don’t have to pay me back for doing what I want to do.” Nolan reached out to untie her robe. “You’re my wife. I enjoy spending time with you, and I don’t mean only this.” He halted in undressing her. “I hope you know I’m going to miss you while I’m gone. I’m going to miss Sofie, too. But we aren’t talking about her. We’re talking about you.”

There was a faintly desperate undercurrent in his voice that was disconcerting.

“If it were safe, I’d take you with me.” Regret ran through his tone. “It isn’t. My schedule is manic. I’m hitting the Islands at a grueling pace that will be hard on me, and I’m used to it. You aren’t. I can’t imagine what my schedule would do to a pregnant woman. However, I’d like to take you with me next year when I pop in to make sure everything is running smoothly.”

“I’d like that.” Aila agreed. “I’ve never been to Japan.”

“Then we’ll have the honeymoon we didn’t have.” Nolan slid her robe off her shoulders. “Leave the kids with Connie and Corey.” His son would be old enough to be without Aila for a few weeks by then. “You’ll love every minute. It’s a beautiful country. We’ll hit the mainland while we’re there.”

“I’ll hold you to it.” Aila smiled into his shoulder as she wondered if Nolan would try to cram as much intimacy into their lives as he could before he left, and if she was going to let him. “You feel so good.”

“So do you.” Nolan ran his hand through her hair finger finger-combing the strands away from her face. “I think you’re starting to see certain benefits to our marriage you’ve ignored before.”

Like the intimacies they were currently sharing.

“Maybe.” She wasn’t going to let him think he’d won without a fight. “Maybe I’m just enjoying the moment.”

Nolan knew better. He’d scored a major victory today, and they both knew it. Aila wouldn’t turn him away now that she’d so readily taken him to her bed. He was going to press that advantage until the day he left. Probably the very minute. He was one step closer to having the kind of marriage his parents never had. To the kind of marriage he wasn’t sure he could have. The kind of marriage he wanted.

He was a hair’s breadth from finally winning the battle after hellish months of vacillation. One step closer to Aila loving him. To his wife settling in for the long haul as he’d already done. Whether he gave voice to his love or not, he was more content in his personal life than he’d ever hoped to be and couldn’t see that changing. He wouldn’t let it if she tried.

CHAPTER TWENTY-FOUR

Staring at her reflection, Aila rubbed her belly with both hands. She couldn’t wait to see Bishop’s face. He wouldn’t believe how round she’d become since he left. While Corey was pleased that she’d gained a whopping twenty-five pounds to date, she wasn’t sure she felt the same. She had no intention of gaining those last five pounds her doctor thought she needed.

Who cared if she was a few pounds underweight at the time of conception? The stress of being newly married to a famous businessman had done a number on her. She couldn’t say the same now. Bishop’s kid had quite the appetite, and her body showed it. She felt like an overstuffed moose in a good way since it meant her son was strong and healthy.

Dragging a brush through her hair, Aila applied a touch of red gloss across her lips and called it done. Taking one last look at herself, she decided the crimson and gold silk tunic she’d recently ordered online from Mommy Wear did little to hide her burgeoning belly. Bishop wasn’t going to believe how much Ethan had grown during his long absence.

He’d been gone closer to three months than two, considering he’d unexpectedly left two weeks early to deal with an issue in India. But they’d stayed in touch daily. She’d even sent regular updates to his phone so he wouldn’t miss the last precious weeks. He’d even been present at her last few appointments with Corey via computer link. However, nothing he’d seen through a computer lens would prepare him for this. Or for the fact that her innie was now an outie, which both amused and disgusted her.

While she still had close to two weeks to go, she looked ready to pop. She felt it too. Her body was heavy and uncomfortable at times. But other than her appearance and the fact that she waddled, she was fine. Better than fine. Doing very well in fact.

The major difference she’d noticed over the past few weeks was that their son had gone from auditioning for a gymnastics team to barely moving as his quarters became more cramped. Fortunately, she knew that was normal, so his decreased spins and kicks weren’t frightening. Unsettling but not alarming when she remembered the cause.

Who was she kidding? The only time she wasn’t concerned was when Corey reassured her that all was well. Her pregnancy was progressing normally. She’d be going out of her mind about now if it weren’t for her boss and the close friends surrounding her. Bishop’s extended absence had taken a much greater toll than she’d expected. She missed him terribly. Electronic contact just wasn’t the same. There was nothing she wanted more than to feel his arms around her. She’d wanted that since he left.

Grabbing her purse, Aila made her way carefully down the stairs. Glancing at the kitchen clock as she headed for the front door, she realized she was running behind quite a bit. If she ran into any traffic at all, she might not get there ahead of Bishop’s flight. He’d get stuck waiting for her. She hoped that didn’t happen. Mooning over her belly didn’t qualify as a legitimate excuse for being late. Neither did the fact that she was moving a lot slower than she normally did. Not when she knew that and should have compensated.

Pulling out of the driveway, she was glad she hadn’t pulled into the garage when she returned home from taking Sofie to school. Not having to back out and wait for the garage doors to close made it that much easier to get on the road. Speaking of Sofie, her daughter was nearly jumping out of her skin, knowing her dad was coming home today. It had taken all her persuasive powers to get Sofie to class today. Only her promise that they’d pick her up on the way home earned her cooperation.

Her daughter wasn’t usually a pain. She loved school. But today was different, and she understood why. Eleven weeks was a lifetime to a little girl, and that was how long Sofie had missed her Daddy. The whole experience was a nightmare. Even worse than it was for her. She didn’t blame Sofie for wanting to see Bishop as soon as possible. Not when she felt the same.

Glancing at the dashboard clock, Aila was amazed at how much time had breezed by while she was lost in thought. She was almost at the airport, and she hadn’t even realized it. She’d been too busy mulling everything from Sofie’s excitement over Nolan’s return to her reaction when she’d discovered they were having a baby. Her reaction was so cute. She’d immediately declared she wanted a brother and a stuffed whale like the one Janie got from the aquarium. How those two things fit together was beyond her, but Aila had laughed and reassured her she’d probably get both.

Smiling at the memory, she recalled that Sofie had that whale before the week was out. Her Daddy got him for her. More likely, Connie did the actual getting, but Nolan gave the stuffed leviathan to his daughter with a kiss. Resting her palm on her belly, Aila recalled how indignant Sofie was that she didn’t have her baby brother as fast. She’d had a heck of a time explaining that one. Hard enough, she hadn’t even bothered trying to dissuade her daughter from assuming the baby was a boy. He could just as easily be a girl, but her daughter wouldn’t consider that.

Fortunately, Bishop and Sofie were right. She’d learned Ethan was, in fact, a boy a few weeks back. Discovered it and decided to keep her secret until her husband’s return. Fortunately, the images she’d sent to his phone were more of the same, so, while Nolan could see how their baby was changing, he couldn’t see the little boy’s parts any more than she could.

The revealing sonogram was safely ensconced in the welcome home card tucked in her purse, waiting to be placed in his hands over dinner at The Lodge later tonight. Nolan would be happy she’d sought them out while he was gone. As hard as she’d fought it, Lilah had quickly become a close friend exactly as he’d promised.

Watching the light change, Aila realized she was just minutes from the airport and reuniting with her husband. Following the car in front of her under the green light, she never saw the sleek, black sports car barreling through the red light. She couldn’t have done anything if she had. The impact occurred too fast. The last thought through her mind before her world erupted in a wave of agony was that Ethan had to survive for his Daddy’s sake.

###

Exiting the airport terminal, Bishop scanned the crowd for the one face he wanted to see most. While his wife included him in her check-ups, she and Corey had conspired to prevent him from answering the million-dollar question. He still didn’t know if he was having a son or a daughter, although he’d still bet money on a boy. He’d get his answer one way or the other soon. However, he suspected he’d know something before the day was over. Why else would Aila insist on going to The Lodge for dinner?

“Where’s Aila?” Bishop stopped abruptly to avoid colliding with the familiar woman so obviously watching for him. “She was supposed to pick me up.”

From here, they were collecting Sofie from school. Later tonight, they were visiting Richard and Delilah at The Lodge for a grown-up welcome-home dinner. At least that’s what Aila said when they’d talked earlier. She’d wanted to make sure he wouldn’t be too tired. He’d reassured her it was fine, and he’d meant it. As crazy as it sounded, given how distressed Aila was over his past relationship with the other woman, she and Lilah had become close in the months since.

He was glad to see that happen. He was just selfish enough not to want something as petty as unfounded jealousy to come between him and his old friends. It didn’t hurt that Freddie had done just as he’d anticipated. She’d courted Aila, ignoring the distance between them. That Freddie and Lilah were close made her growing friendship with her imaginary rival more palatable to his wife and paved the way for things to work out as he’d hoped from the start.

“Aila can’t make it,” Corey spoke quietly. “We’ll talk in the car.”

“We’ll talk here.” Bishop’s hand on her arm restrained the other woman. “Where is my wife?”

“In OR 5, fighting for her life when I left,” Corey answered honestly, ignoring the palpable shock on his face. “I’ll tell you everything on the way to the hospital.”

“Tell me now,” Bishop demanded, not sure his legs would support a sprint across the massive parking lot if he tried. “What happened? I just spoke to her a few hours ago, and she was fine.”

“Yes, she was, but she isn’t now.” Corey didn’t have time for this foolishness when she should be in the OR with Aila. “Some kids lost control of a stolen Jaguar and t-boned Aila at that nasty intersection three miles from here.” Corey gripped his arm firmly as she led him toward the parking lot. If Bishop lost it as his face indicated he might, he’d have to do it in her SUV. The man was much too large for her to manage if he fell apart. “A state trooper saw the incident and had her airlifted to the Trauma Unit within minutes of the accident. I happened to be there on another emergency when they brought her in. To make a long story short, I took over when I realized who was on that stretcher.”

Opening the door to her SUV, Corey tossed Bishop’s luggage into the back seat while she urged him into the front. Walking around the vehicle, she slid into her seat and started the ignition.

“I won’t lie to you. It was touch-and-go for a while. But we won the battle, and Ethan entered the world about an hour ago, a very vocal little boy. We’ll keep him in the NICU for a couple of days, but he seems fine. Aila’s in a trickier situation.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Bishop wasn’t sure he wanted to know. “What happened to her?”

“Other than some fractures and internal and external bruising? I honestly don’t know yet. Labor started almost as soon as we got her on the table and progressed too fast to do anything other than watch it happen. We didn’t even have time to fully assess Aila’s injuries before I was holding your son in my hands.” Exiting the airport, Corey pulled onto the highway, grateful that traffic was lighter than usual. “We’d barely bundled Ethan off to the nursery when we realized Aila was hemorrhaging internally. She was in surgery when I left, so I can’t tell you anything more.”

While she should be in the OR assisting the lead surgeon, someone had to meet Bishop at the airport, and that someone had to be her. As guilty as she felt for leaving her surrogate daughter, that emotion wasn’t justified. There was nothing she could add to the talented team that the surgeons weren’t already doing.

Not that she wasn’t going to suit up and join the fun the moment they arrived at the hospital. She was. It was that reassuring Bishop was more important. If the unthinkable happened, the man had to be strong for his daughter and newborn son. He needed to know she and Dennis would be there to bolster him through it. The only way she could get that across was to be with him from the start.

“What do you think caused the bleeding?” Bishop demanded. “And what’s her prognosis?”

“It’s probably a placental abruption caused by the accident and Ethan’s sudden birth.” Corey pulled into the Emergency Room parking lot. “There’s no guarantee I’m right, but that makes the most sense. If I’m wrong, then it’s a tear or other injury somewhere in her abdomen.”

“What does a placental abruption mean for us?” Bishop asked quietly, not even wanting to think about the other. “Can they stop the bleeding?”

“Dr. Hendrick is the best Gynecological Surgeon in the state and possibly the country. We’re lucky to have him.” Corey struggled to answer him as honestly as she could. “If anyone can stop the bleeding, he will. If he can repair the damage, he’ll do that, too. If he does, Aila should make a full recovery, which means more children if you want them. If the damage is too severe, David will do a hysterectomy. We’ll know more when he’s done.”

“I don’t care about any of that.” Bishop couldn’t process anything beyond that his wife was in surgery, bleeding out. “What if he can’t stop the bleeding?”

“Exactly what you think.” Corey stated bluntly as she led him through the staff entrance. “But we won’t let that happen.” Brave words, but they both knew that might not be possible. “Besides, we don’t know if my diagnosis is correct. Honestly, it could be anything, so we should wait until we have more to go on.”

“I’ll do that, but I appreciate your input.” Bishop couldn’t believe any of this was happening. Not now, when their marriage was finally on track. “What about my… son?”

That must be the big surprise Aila had for him. They’d finally discovered the sex of their child while he was gone. As confident as he’d sounded, he hadn’t known for sure they were having a boy. He’d hoped they were since they already had Sofie. But he wouldn’t be disappointed with a second daughter. He wouldn’t love her any less.

“You didn’t know, did you?” Corey placed her hand reassuringly on his arm, surprised the other woman had managed to keep her secret to the end. “I guess Aila’s desire to give you that big welcome home surprise outweighed her excitement to spill the beans.”

“I didn’t know.” Bishop confirmed. “That must be what we were going to celebrate tonight. She’d arranged for a babysitter and made reservations at The Lodge.”

“I’m sorry that didn’t work out.” Corey’s tone was soft and calm as she led him around the corner. “I think you’ll be surprised how much Ethan looks like you. He’s a handsome little man.” Still a little squish-faced from his hasty birth, but perfect anyway. “That’s him there.” Nolan studied the baby she pointed to. “While you’re getting acquainted, I’ll check on Aila. One of the nurses can take you to the surgical waiting room when you’re done. I’ll check in with you as soon as I have anything to share.”

“Sounds like a plan.” Bishop turned from studying his son. “What about Sofie?”

“Connie’s taking care of her and working from your place until further notice.” Corey motioned for him to follow her into a small anteroom. “Go ahead and suit up. You can wash up over there and sit here.” Corey pointed to a comfy chair while she gently freed Ethan from his bed. “Keep talking to a minimum when you’re in the main room with the other babies.”

Following her instructions, Bishop sat in the rocking chair and watched Corey settle his son in his arms. Seeing her tip her head in the direction of the door, he nodded, knowing she was going to check on his wife. Ignoring her departure, he studied the child he was holding.

Forget what his godmother said. Ethan looked more like his mother right now, even if he did have his dark auburn hair. Maybe he’d see what Corey saw when his son was a little older. Maybe Ethan would start looking more like him. Right now, he was Aila’s boy, from the pretty blue eyes to the longer second toe.

“Hello, Little Man, welcome to the big, bad world a little ahead of schedule.” Bishop gently caressed his son’s cheek, feeling an unexpected ache in his heart as he realized how much he’d already missed. “I’m your dad, and I want you to know your mom and I already love you.”

Rocking his son, Bishop wondered if Sofie was ever this small and somehow doubted it. He could already see that his daughter was going to take more after him and Abby in height and build. She was going to be taller than Aila and probably larger-framed as well. His wife was on the smaller side in relation to him, while Abby had been well over five feet ten with a strong dancer’s body. His son would likely be tall but of a slighter build than his own. A near-perfect blend of both his parents. Or he hoped he was. Watching his son’s eyes drift closed, Bishop wasn’t surprised when a young nurse suddenly appeared at his side to take his beloved bundle from his arms. Glancing at his watch, he was mildly surprised at how easily he’d lost himself in his son and his thoughts for over two hours.

“Dr. C should be out of the OR in a few.” The nurse gently cradled Ethan in her arms. “Your wife is in recovery, so Amy’s here to take you to the waiting room. It shouldn’t be that long before she’s in a room. You can see her then.”

“Thanks.” Watching her lay his son in his bassinet, Bishop made his way out of the room, tossing his mask in the appropriate container as he left the NICU. “So, you’re Amy, and you’re taking me to the waiting room?”

“I am.” The nurse led him down the hall. “But I’m taking you to your wife’s room. They should be bringing her in shortly from recovery. Dr. Hendrick and Dr. C will be coming with her.”

Following the nurse as she led him through a maze of halls he’d never remember, Bishop wasn’t sure that was a good thing. Even if Lacey had indicated otherwise. He’d noted the NICU nurse’s name from her tag as he watched her deftly handle his son. From what he’d seen so far, he was pleased with the treatment his family was receiving. Not that he expected anything different. Corey was a competent, compassionate doctor who took her profession seriously. She wouldn’t work anywhere that didn’t operate to her high personal standards.

“We’re here.” Amy opened the door to a small, windowed room. “You can sit over there in that chair.” Bishop wearily did as he was told. “I’ll be at the desk out there waiting for your wife to come down. If you need anything, let me know. I’ll be her nurse for the next few hours.”

Nodding, Bishop sat down and closed his eyes. Amy had casually informed him that Aila would be in a private room from the start during their walk. While he appreciated the effort, he’d mostly tuned out her small talk after that.

Opening his eyes at the sound of voices in the hall, Bishop remained seated while he watched them wheel his wife into the room. Catching Corey’s eye, he silently acknowledged he’d stay out of the way and let them do what had to be done. As much as he wanted to rush to the side of that gurney, he knew he was privileged to even be in the room to see all of this. He’d get his chance to check on his wife as soon as Aila was settled and the doctors were done.

CHAPTER TWENTY-FIVE

Putting his empty tray on the overbed table, Bishop admitted his grits, eggs, and toast weren’t bad. Not considering the horror stories he’d heard about hospital food in the past and he should know by now. He hadn’t left Aila’s side since they’d brought her from recovery for longer than it took to hit the hospital cafeteria for takeout and return to her room. He’d only done that when he couldn’t stand staring at the walls around him one second longer.

For the most part, he’d taken his meals in here and eaten what the patients had. To be honest, he was afraid to leave for long. Aila had yet to rouse for more than a few inarticulate moments since her surgery. From what he could see, she hadn’t recognized him even once. While Corey reassured him that this was normal, considering the state she was in, he wasn’t reassured. Not one bit. Settling back in his chair, he studied the machines surrounding her bed, feeling more than overwhelmed. He was lost and afraid. All feelings he wasn’t used to having and none he’d felt since his parents’ divorce.

“Bishop?” Nolan roused at the sound of a surprisingly strong voice. “What happened?”

He couldn’t believe he’d drifted off without realizing it. Then again, he could. He’d kept a constant vigil for over two weeks. He probably hadn’t slept more than a couple of hours a day the whole time he’d been here. He’d been too terrified that Aila would slip away when he wasn’t watching. She almost had a time or two in those first couple of days. She’d grown steadily stronger over the past few days.

“You were in an accident on the way to pick me up at the airport.” Bishop leaned in to grip her hand. “Some kids on a joy ride lost control of a stolen vehicle and hit you at a high rate of speed. You’ve been in and out for the past two weeks.”

More out than in, although she had regained consciousness off and on. She just hadn’t been lucid when she did. To be honest, he hadn’t been sure she was one hundred percent there until now. He’d known she wasn’t. Having Corey tell him it was probably the medicine didn’t reassure him all that much. Probably wasn’t definitive, and he didn’t like variables he couldn’t control. It wasn’t in his nature to surrender to anyone or anything. He never had. He wouldn’t start now with everything he wanted on the line.

“Ethan?” Aila desperately tried to pull her hand from his. “Where’s Ethan?”

“In the nursery where he should be.” Bishop reassured her, surprised that her thoughts were this coherent. “You’re the one we almost lost.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?” From the way she felt, it could be anything. “How bad am I hurt?”

She didn’t have to be in the medical field to realize she was in SICU. The big window facing the hall and the Nurses Station right outside gave that away without all the beeps and noises from the machines around her. The fact that she had hazy memories of incredible pain and a baby’s cries reinforced the impression she wasn’t home anymore.

“Let’s just say you won’t be going to work for a few months.” Bishop casually informed her. “If I have my way, you won’t go back at all. You, Sofie, and Ethan will travel with me when you’re well enough to do so. We can work out the details later. All you need to know is that you will make a full recovery. It’ll take time, but your injuries will heal.”

“Sounds good.” Aila started to smile before deciding it hurt too much to move her face. “What about this?” She rested her hand over her bandaged abdomen. “I heard the nurses discussing my chart. I know I had a placental abruption, among other things.”

“They stopped the bleeding and repaired the damage.” Bishop repeated what Corey told him a lifetime ago. “Your injuries weren’t as severe as they feared, which was a good thing.”

He wasn’t about to inform her that she wouldn’t have survived the surgery if they were. She probably already knew, and the experience had been bad enough as it was. She’d flat-lined twice on the table and had a couple of scares here in the room, neither of which he was telling her anytime soon. Maybe later, when she was safely home and feeling better. It was enough that she’d revived both times and bounced back from the worst of it. What he refused to accept was the guarded prognosis that she wasn’t out of the woods yet.

“From what I’ve been told, we can even have more children if you want.” Bishop gently stroked her hand. “I’m not sure how I feel about the idea right now. We’ll discuss the possibility later.”

He and Aila had both been looking forward to sharing the full experience. To him being in the delivery room holding her hand while they watched their child enter the world. As much as he regretted not seeing Ethan’s grand entrance, he wasn’t sure he was willing to put his wife at risk again. There was no guarantee that there wouldn’t be serious complications from this accident. However, that also didn’t mean there would be either. A second pregnancy could just as easily be trouble-free. Corey had been transparent with him about that, too.

Possibilities aside, it was a decision they’d make when Aila was fully recovered. Right now, they needed to make it through the next few months of rest and rehab. Everything else would take care of itself.

“Good.” She didn’t know how she felt about any of this except cheated. Some part of her remembered Ethan’s birth, but not with the fondness she’d hoped. Truthfully, she’d wanted to die before it was done. Banishing the shadowy thought, Aila decided she was much too tired to deal with anything serious. It was enough knowing she was alive, and Ethan was fine. “I still want that full experience. Still want to share it with you….”

Closing her eyes, she gave in to the weariness bearing down on her, confident that Bishop would protect her through the night.

Watching Aila fall into the first truly peaceful sleep he’d seen in days, Bishop contemplated running home for a few hours. He needed to take a shower and check in with Connie. Maybe he’d swing by the school to get Sofie early so they could spend time together and save his assistant the trouble of picking her up.

Connie and Corey were taking turns staying with their daughter in their home. It made things easier for everyone, especially Sofie, who was having trouble handling the situation in the first place. Maybe he’d bring her to the hospital to meet Ethan and see her mother. Given that Aila was one of their own, the hospital administration was willing to bend the rules where Sofie was concerned.

Satisfied that all the machines were normal, or as normal as they could be, and Aila was in a deep restorative sleep, Bishop decided he needed to take the time to reassure his daughter and handle any pressing business that couldn’t wait. Even if he didn’t want to leave. He also needed a few hours to refortify himself before he faced his wife again. This whole situation had taken more out of him than he’d realized from the start. Days later, he still couldn’t accept how close he’d come to losing Aila.

He’d meant it when he told her all those months ago that he couldn’t imagine his life without her. His words were as true now as they had been then. Perhaps more so. Nothing had changed except that he was willing to admit out loud that he loved her. Or he would be when the time was right. Not now. Not when she was so drugged on pain meds that she wouldn’t remember a word he said. Walking over to drop a kiss on her forehead, Bishop left the room, closing the door behind him.

###

Turning his key in the lock, Bishop watched Sofie skip through the open door. Despite what she’d been through the past few days, his daughter was resilient. Happy and well-adjusted. She’d been excited to see him for the first time since he’d flown back into town, and she was excited to see her mom in a few hours.

Right now, she was headed for her room to do her homework. Later, he’d promised to take her to Sadie’s before they swung by the hospital to visit Aila. Corey would bring Sofie home after she completed her rounds so that he could remain at the hospital. As much as he wanted to keep his daughter with him, he couldn’t. He appreciated Corey stepping in to make his life easier.

Walking into the kitchen, Bishop removed a glass from the cabinet and poured a small measure from the nearly full bottle of expensive Cognac that Aila kept for cooking. Taking a sip, he couldn’t remember the last time he’d had anything stronger than the occasional glass of wine. On second thought, he could. The night Sofie was conceived.

Unlike then, he seriously doubted he’d finish this drink, much less have a couple more. He had a child to consider. One that he’d be driving around town in a few hours. Carrying his glass into his office, he sat behind his desk and reached for the phone. While Connie had kept him updated, his mind wasn’t really on business. Now that his head was clearer, he needed to make sure there weren’t any fires he needed to put out.

Taking a sip from his glass, he greeted his assistant and listened intently while she brought him up to speed. Fortunately, she was doing a good job of manning the fort, so everything was fine for the moment. Not that he expected anything different. He had very competent managers in place who had a direct line if they needed him. Scrolling through his emails, he responded to what he needed to and delegated what he didn’t.

Rising from his seat, he turned his computer off and ambled into the kitchen. Pouring what was left of his drink down the sink, he washed the glass, put it away, and headed upstairs to Sofie’s room. Glancing over her homework, he was amazed at how well his daughter was doing. She’d handled all the changes in her life over the past few months well. Largely because of her mom and her love of school. The child absorbed knowledge like a sponge. Nothing seemed to interfere with her desire to learn. From what her teachers were telling them, Sofie would be in accelerated classes next year.

“I’m going to take a shower and change.” Bishop pulled Sofie’s favorite jeans and purple top from a drawer and laid them on top of her dresser. “Why don’t you change into your mom’s favorite outfit while I’m getting ready? After that, you can play until I’m done. Just stay inside.”

Bishop didn’t have to say that. He felt irresponsible if he didn’t. Sofie knew she wasn’t allowed around the pool unless one of her parents was with her. She also knew they didn’t like her running around outside alone. Even though their neighborhood was safe, some of the characters passing through might not be.

“I can do that.” Sofie agreed. “But I need to finish my letters first.”

Bishop nodded, knowing he didn’t need to look over that. Sofie was surprisingly good at forming letters. He didn’t know where she got that talent. He knew for a fact, he and Aila were both appallingly bad at writing until they were much older. While legible, neither of them would win an award for their penmanship today.

“Do you need help with your hair?” He’d become a master at little girl ponytails over the weeks Aila struggled with morning sickness. “I thought so. Change your shirt and bring me your brush.”

Laughing, Sofie snatched her shirt off the dresser, ran into her bathroom, and shut the door, only to emerge in record time, changed with her brush in hand. Taking the brush from her, Bishop unwrapped the scrunchies from the handle before skillfully parting her curly locks. In no time, he’d fashioned two even ponytails that even his wife wouldn’t find fault with. Leaning in to drop a kiss on Sofie’s head, Bishop steered her back towards her schoolwork before leaving to take his shower.

Heading into the bedroom he hadn’t seen in weeks, Bishop was surprised at how little things had changed. Except for the heavily damaged purse on the dresser. The police must have released some of Aila’s belongings to Connie. That was the only way that could have gotten there. Lifting the purse, he unzipped the zipper and reached inside to draw out the envelope with his name on it.

Opening the card, he glanced over the loving message before taking the sonogram in hand. Corey was right. Aila had intended to spring his son on him that night in the restaurant. She’d secreted that very revealing image inside his welcome home card. Placing the picture against the mirror, he walked over to the closet and opened the door.

Ambling inside, he grabbed a comfortable pair of slacks and a comfortable shirt before heading for the bathroom. Since he didn’t know when he’d get a chance to come home again, he should probably toss a few things in a bag before he left. Right now, he needed to get cleaned up, starting with the scruff on his face. Aila would appreciate the effort.

Making short work of his shave, Bishop turned the shower on, stripped down, and put his dirty clothes in the hamper. Stepping under the steaming spray, he couldn’t help thinking his wife had trained him well in the relatively short amount of time they’d been together. He now automatically picked up after himself even when she wasn’t around. Not that he’d been a slob before she’d entered his life. He just hadn’t been as meticulous as he was now.

Reaching blindly for the familiar dark bottle of body wash, he flipped the lid, surprised when cinnamon flooded his senses instead of the sandalwood he’d expected. They must have changed the bottle of Aila’s favorite scent over the past few weeks. Breathing in the familiar aroma, Bishop closed his eyes and gave in to the despair threatening to overwhelm him.

If he were a crying man, he’d cry. He wasn’t, so he didn’t. But that didn’t mean his chest didn’t ache or that he didn’t want to pound the walls in. He did, and he would if he thought that would help. It wouldn’t. Added to that, his wife wouldn’t be pleased to return home to find gaping holes in their walls. Even though he’d lived through it, the nightmare of the past couple of weeks still felt surreal.

Putting her body wash away and grabbing his own, Bishop decided to concentrate on the good things that had happened today. Aila finally had a prolonged moment of lucidity. Her first since they’d brought her from recovery. He couldn’t be happier about that. He wouldn’t have left if he’d believed she wouldn’t be okay for a few hours. He did believe so, he had. He was less pleased she’d drifted so easily back into an insentient state.

However, Corey was cautiously optimistic to the point that they were moving her to a real private room while he was gone. Still in Intensive Care, but a step down from the depressing place she’d been. Her situation looked more promising, even if Aila was still hooked up to oxygen and more machines than he wanted to see. From where he sat, things could be much worse. She could still be in that other private room with even more of the machines he appreciated but didn’t like.

On that thought, Bishop shook the pity party and exited the shower. Roughly drying his face and hair, he slipped into his clothes and went in search of his daughter. He owed that kid an adult seafood platter followed by the biggest slice of cake Sadie’s had to offer. What did he care if she ate the whole thing? He wouldn’t be the one dealing with the sugar rush. Then again, maybe he’d make sure she got a kid-sized slice. Corey didn’t deserve a wound-up Sofie to cap off her long day.

“Hey, Kiddo, what do you say we get a move on?” Bishop peeped around the corner, not at all surprised to see Sofie pouring imaginary tea for Mr. Wiggles. “I’m assuming you finished your letters?”

“Yep, I sure did.” Sofie skipped over to place her hand in his. “Now we’re going to see Ethan and Mommy?”

“Maybe.” Resisting the urge to ruffle her too-neat hair, Bishop smiled down at her. “I thought we’d swing by Sadie’s first if you want.”

“Oh, yeah.” Remembering how Sofie had run to him and clung to his leg when he’d appeared so unexpectedly in her classroom, Bishop couldn’t begrudge his daughter the time he was spending away from her mother. “Can I have a seafood platter with clam strips and fries?”

“If you don’t tell your mom.” Bishop fastened Sofie in, grateful his daughter was both mature enough and large enough for a booster seat over the more cumbersome child safety seat. “You know how she feels about fries.”

They were occasional treats, not diet staples.

“What about carrot cake?” Sofie watched the neighborhood whizzing by. “Can I have a monster piece?”

Bishop smirked, knowing his kid would push the envelope while Aila was out of commission.

“If you don’t tell your mother.” Bishop laughed softly at her conspiratorial screech. “You know how she feels about sweets.”

“She’d rather feed me yucky fresh fruit with the skin on.” Sofie cackled to herself in disbelief that her dad was letting her get away with dietary suicide, especially considering he knew she liked fruit. “But I’d rather have the good stuff like we have on Taco Tuesdays.”

“You know we don’t talk about Taco Tuesdays.” Bishop pulled into a parking space, glad Sadie’s was still light on patrons, which meant they’d get in and out a lot faster than usual. “It’s a secret.”

Releasing his daughter from her seat belt, Bishop decided he wouldn’t ruin Sofie’s fun by telling her Aila had busted Taco Tuesdays a couple of days before he’d left for Tokyo. Fortunately, she hadn’t outlawed their trips to the local fast-food joint outright. Just asked that he keep it to once or twice a month instead of every chance they got. He’d gladly complied with her wishes in return for not letting their daughter know she knew what they did on Tuesdays when she worked late. Slipping her hand in his, Sofie wasn’t surprised when her dad swept her up on his hip and carried her inside. What did surprise her was Grandma Sadie manning the hostess’s desk instead of being back in the kitchen overseeing the cooking as she usually was.

CHAPTER TWENTY-SIX

“I don’t like this place.” Sofie gripped her doggie bag tightly as she followed her dad through the automatic doors. “It’s too big and it smells funny.”

“Yes, it does, but it’s where Ethan and your mom are, so we have to come inside.” Leaning down, Bishop repeated his earlier action of sweeping her up on his hip. “What do you say to swinging by to see your baby brother first?”

“Sounds like a plan.” Sofie buried her face in his neck as they stepped into the crowded elevator. “Can I give him a kiss?”

“We’ll have to see, but I doubt it,” Bishop answered his daughter honestly. “He’s probably already asleep since it’s past your bedtime and he’s a whole lot smaller.”

“Oh, I hadn’t thought about that.” Sofie digested her father’s words as they drew to a stop in front of the nursery window. “Then I guess he’ll get a rain check.”

“I guess he will.” Bishop agreed. “See the baby over there in the blue cap?” The only blue in a sea of pink. “That’s your brother, Ethan.”

“The one with the scrunched-up face?” Sofie turned to her father. “That’s the same face Sarah’s little brother makes when he needs a diaper change.”

“Is that so?” Bishop couldn’t help smiling at her comment. He’d heard all about “Stinky Pete” on several occasions. “I think your brother’s face is just that way right now. I’ve been told it’ll straighten out in a few days.”

“Okay.” Sofie shrugged off his comment. “He’s kind of cute anyway.”

“We think so.” Bishop agreed. “Maybe you’ll get to hold him in a few days.”

“I’d like that.” Sofie kissed his cheek. “What about Mom?”

“What about her?” Bishop asked. “You ready to see her?”

“Yeah, I think I am,” Sofie pronounced. “It’s been a while.”

“Then let’s go see where they moved her.” Carrying Sofie over to the nurse’s station, Bishop spoke quietly to a nurse he recognized. “It looks like things have changed even more than we expected, little girl. Your Mom’s in a regular room now, so we’ll have to take the elevator again.”

They would have had to take the elevator anyway. Just not to the floor that they were going to now. Bishop wondered briefly what had changed so drastically over the few hours he was gone. He’d taken a call from Corey earlier in the evening, letting him know Aila was being moved again. She wasn’t sure exactly where since they were still discussing it, but he could find out at the nurse’s station. He’d taken her at her word.

Taking the elevator to the appropriate floor, Bishop stopped outside the room he’d been directed to and confirmed Aila’s name was in the slot by the door. Satisfied he was in the right place, he knocked gently on the door and waited for a response.

“Hello, Kiddo.” Sticking her head out the door, Corey spoke to Sofie before turning her attention to Bishop. “Give us a couple of minutes, and I’ll let you in.”

Nodding, Bishop lowered Sofie to the ground and lightly clutched her hand. With Corey meeting them at the door, he had no idea what to expect. Aila was doing much better than she had been, or she wouldn’t be in a regular room on the Surgical Floor. However, he wasn’t expecting miracles. She’d still be covered in bandages, cuts, and bruises. Her ribs would still be cracked, and her wrist broken. He didn’t even want to talk about internal injuries. One thing he did know was that he needed to prepare his daughter for her mother’s appearance.

“Before we go in, we need to talk.” Bishop squatted until he was at eye level with his daughter. “Your mom’s not going to look as pretty as she usually does, so I don’t want you to be upset. For one thing, she’s a whole lot skinnier without Ethan in her belly. For another, she’s got a lot of cuts and bruises. She has some cracked ribs and one of her arms is in a cast.” There were other broken bones Sofie couldn’t see beneath the covers, but he wasn’t telling her about those. She was frightened enough already. “The most important thing you need to remember is she’s going to be all right. She’ll be home before you know it.”

He seriously doubted that, but Sofie didn’t need to know her mom still had a long way to go. From what Corey told him, Ethan would be released to his care before Aila would. He already had Connie rearranging his schedule. Given the world at large knew how close he’d come to losing his wife and newborn son, no one balked at postponing long-awaited meetings until his family was stronger. They’d rearranged their schedules without him having to ask.

“Sounds good.” Hugging his daughter, Bishop was glad Sofie took after Aila when it came to serious matters.

The fact that she was mature beyond her years made this whole nightmare easier for her to handle. That and the loving people around her. Closing his eyes, Bishop realized how readily he’d come to rely on the wonderful “family” his wife had surrounded herself with over the years. Somewhere along the way, he’d started calling them family, too.

“I think Corey’s fixing to let us in.” Sofie nodded in the direction of the door.

Bishop thought she was right.

“You guys can come in now.” Corey opened the door to let them in. “I’ll swing by for Sofie when I finish updating Aila’s chart.”

Bishop nodded as he followed his daughter into the room and watched Cory and her nurse depart. Turning his attention to Sofie and his wife, he was pleased that Aila looked much better than she had when he’d left earlier. Reaching out to halt his daughter’s mad scramble, he lifted her to sit on the edge of her mother’s bed. Watching them get reacquainted, Bishop pushed the recliner closer to the bed and contemplated leaving his wife and child for a few minutes. He could afford to let his daughter have her time with her mother. Corey would be by to take her home long before Sofie was ready to leave.

“You look so much better than you did this morning.” He leaned in to drop a gentle kiss on Aila’s head. “What changed while I was gone?”

“They started weaning me off most of my pain meds a couple of days ago,” Aila admitted, not volunteering that they’d taken her completely off the strongest ones that were keeping her out of it. “I’m not as comfortable as I was now that the drugs are mostly out of my system, but I’m more alert than I was this morning.”

“I’m sorry you’re in pain, but you do look much better than you did.” Bishop gently touched her cheek, carefully avoiding the ugly bruises still standing out so darkly against her skin. “I’m going to get a cup of decaf and let you have some quality time with Sofie.”

“I’d like that.” Aila gripped his hand with more strength than he’d thought possible. “But you’re staying tonight?”

Bishop caught the desperate tone in her voice and nodded reassuringly.

“You know I am.” He stroked her hand. “Today is the first day I’ve left for longer than it took me to run to the cafeteria. Now that you’re better, I don’t plan on leaving until you throw me out.”

“That isn’t going to happen.” Aila released his hand. “Get your coffee. Sofie and I will still be here when you get back. We might even save you one or two cookies from the box Corey brought me from the bakery down the street.”

“Do you need me to bring you something to drink?” Bishop asked even as his eyes landed on the two cartons on Aila’s bedside table. “I don’t guess you do since it looks like Corey left you milk to go with your cookies.”

“She did.” Aila agreed. “We don’t need anything except you coming back when you’re done.”

“I will,” Bishop promised. “However, I’m taking my cookies with me since I don’t trust you two to leave anything but the crumbs.”

Watching her husband wrap two cookies in a napkin and tuck the packet in his pocket, Aila decided he might be right. Corey had brought her the treats as a reward for bouncing back so unexpectedly, even though she rarely ate sweets. There was quite an assortment as well. Chocolate chip, white chocolate macadamia, and sugar cookies, along with a fourth kind she suspected was some fancy peanut butter shortbread bar. Her favorite.

Leave it to Bishop to take one of those. He’d grabbed a sugar cookie as well, but she didn’t care about that. She had a thing for peanut butter and shortbread, and, considering she’d been more out of it than in for a long time, she was ravenous. She sincerely doubted there would be anything left but the crumbs by the time Bishop returned.

“You do that.” Aila gave him his verbal walking papers. “But don’t be gone too long. I’m sure Sofie would like to spend time with both of us.”

“I won’t be.” Slipping out the door, Bishop smiled at the tinkling laughter following his exit.

His wife and daughter had probably gone after the same cookie as they always did. That was the only reason Sofie laughed that way. He was glad some things never changed, even if Aila had fibbed about her real reason for wanting him back quickly. She was fast running out of steam. He could see it in her eyes and hear it in the slurring of her voice. Yes, she’d metabolized the drugs out of her system faster than expected, but that didn’t mean she was superhuman. She’d been through a lot, and her body was still depleted. Anyone could see that. She needed him there as much as she wanted him.

While he wouldn’t be gone long, he probably wouldn’t return quite as fast as she wanted him either. If she dozed on Sofie, it wouldn’t be the end of the world, nor would their daughter go anywhere. She’d stay right where she was, keeping watch over her mom like she’d done throughout her pregnancy. As selfish as it felt to leave them, he needed a few minutes to himself, and he was taking them. Now that Aila was alert and rational, there were things he needed to think through, and he needed to do it alone.

CHAPTER TWENTY-SEVEN

Stepping off the elevator, Bishop walked down the hall only to stop in front of the window to stare at his son. They’d added another little pink-capped baby since he’d brought Sofie by a little while ago. A beautiful baby girl with a cupid’s bow mouth and wisps of downy hair. Somebody somewhere in the hospital was hopefully feeling that same open wonderment he’d felt staring at his son for the first time. That same surreal feeling he felt when he looked at Ethan, knowing he still couldn’t accept his son was finally here.

It didn’t matter that he held him every day. Neither he nor Aila watched Ethan enter the world as they’d planned, which tinged their joy with a hint of sorrow. Placing his palm against the window, Bishop uttered a prayer of thanks for the gift he’d been given. Feelings aside, he was grateful to have the son he shouldn’t have. He didn’t need Corey to remind him that he was lucky Ethan survived at all. That he entered the world perfect and unharmed. That reality was nothing short of a miracle and one he’d never take for granted.

Reluctantly pulling away from the window, Bishop made his way to the cafeteria and the coffee machine. While the kitchen was long closed, the vending machines weren’t. Grabbing his coffee, he glanced around the room and spoke briefly to several people he’d met in passing over the course of the last few days.

Taking a sip of coffee, he walked through the sliding glass doors out into the garden. Taking a seat on a bench under the streetlights, Bishop absorbed the tranquility around him. Fortunately, he was the only person out here right now, so he could appreciate the solitude of his surroundings. While nights were growing cooler, it wasn’t cold. Far from it. The slight breeze felt good, ruffling through his hair.

Hanging his head, he let the tensions of the past few months wash over him, realizing he’d been locked in a slow-motion nightmare he’d rather forget. Not all of it. Just the ending. He’d found Japan and the mainland beautiful. He’d known his wife would too, so he’d made notes of all the places he wanted to take her on their belated honeymoon. He’d done more than that. He’d imagined Aila in every place he’d visited.

That hadn’t been hard, considering all the pictures she’d sent him joyfully documenting her expanding belly and recovering health. As trying as the beginning of her pregnancy had been, the latter was proving much easier for her to handle. Although he’d done his best to hide it, those updates only made their separation more difficult for him. They’d made him more aware of every precious moment he was missing.

However, the alternative was untenable, so he’d made the best of a bad situation. He’d saved every photograph she’d ever sent him. He had the hard copy and the digital albums to prove it. At the time, he’d thought he was being frivolous and unmanly. Now he was glad he’d done it. If the unthinkable had happened, those albums would be all he’d have left to remind him of what he’d once had.

Shaking his morbid thoughts, Bishop turned to contemplate the present instead. Sofie and Ethan were a dream come true. If they never had another child, he had more than he ever wanted in the two he already had. They were perfect in his eyes, and their mother, well, he didn’t have words for Aila. Or for what she’d brought to his life.

As cynical as he was about emotions, he’d found the love of his life without even trying. He could say she’d found him. He certainly hadn’t found her. Considering his intentions were less than honorable from the start, he hadn’t been interested in getting to know the Peterson woman beyond finding any weakness he could exploit in a custody battle. Proving as resilient as her name, Sofie’s adoptive mother quickly earned his respect instead. That admiration grew with time.

Abby had prophesied just such an end for him at a pub one night back in their college days. He’d laughed cruelly at her foolishness and told her she was drunk. However, his stating the obvious didn’t make her wrong. A quarter century later, he would admit she was right. Although he hadn’t believed her then, he did now. He was living his life-is-stranger-than-fiction moment, and he had an old lover to thank for it. Abby had indirectly brought her prediction into being without ever knowing what she’d done.

Taking another sip of coffee, Bishop studied the stars in the sky. He and Aila had a lot to talk about. Corey had reassured him on his way out that his wife was finally out of the woods. She’d turned a major corner this morning, and if everything continued as it was going, she’d be home in three or four days. When that happened, their lives would change considerably.

For one thing, Aila wouldn’t be able to take care of Ethan any time soon. He’d have to be there for her in so many ways, including rehab. So, he’d be working almost entirely from home for the next few months. Which meant he should probably tell his wife precisely how he felt about her. Sooner rather than later. She’d feel guilty for interfering with his life if he didn’t.

As much as he’d tried to prevent it, they’d lost a lot of ground during his absence. It was only natural. He’d been seven thousand miles from home far longer than he should have been. When he shouldn’t have been. Not with a very pregnant wife on the cusp of delivery back home. If things had gone as planned, he’d have recovered that ground soon after his return. Probably in the first couple of days, if not before. One thing he was sure of, Aila would have known how deeply she was loved long before Ethan was born.

It didn’t work out that way. But that didn’t mean his feelings had changed. If anything, they’d grown stronger. Even though he’d gained his son, almost losing Aila had driven home how lost he’d be without her. He just wasn’t sure how to tell her. Or when. From the little he knew of the way things should be, husbands usually told their wives they loved them long before the ceremony. Not over a year after. However, nothing about their relationship was how things should be. Whatever things were anyway?

Crushing his empty cup in his hand, Bishop tossed the refuse in the garbage on his way back through the sliding glass doors. Catching the elevator, he made one last pass by the nursery to gaze at his son and gather his thoughts before he took the stairs to the fourth floor. Passing the nurse’s station, he realized Corey was still deeply immersed in her work. That wasn’t a problem. If he didn’t miss his guess, Sofie was already fast asleep.

Knocking softly, he entered his wife’s room to see both his girls happily drooling on their pillows. Someone had rolled a small cot into the room while he was gone and placed Sofie on it. Probably Corey. He’d have to remember to thank her before she left. Silently settling into his chair, Bishop watched his wife sleep for a few minutes before he noticed her eyelids fluttering open.

“Hey,” Aila spoke softly as she reached out to him with her good hand. “How long were you gone?”

“Forty-five minutes or so.” Bishop glanced at his watch, realizing he’d been gone longer than he meant to be. “I didn’t mean to wake you.”

His knock was much too soft to disturb her.

“You didn’t.” Aila smiled as she patted the place her daughter had vacated. “I just needed a short power nap, and that one sleeps like a rock.”

“Yes, she does.” Bishop was still as amazed by Sofie’s sleeping habits as he’d always been. “I think that’s a good thing since we need to talk.”

“About what?” Aila watched him carefully slide into the place she’d indicated. “Ethan’s all right? I saw him earlier today.”

“Ethan’s perfect.” Bishop soothed her fears. “I saw him on my way up. He was sleeping soundly, so no, it isn’t our son. It’s us. We need to talk about us.”

“Okay.” Aila’s tone was hesitant as she settled more comfortably on her back. “What about us?”

“I thought you should know I won’t be leaving the country for any long trips until you’re able to come with me.” Bishop ignored the surprise on her face. “If anyone needs to see me that badly, they can come to Taylorsville. If that isn’t possible, Connie can stand in my place. She’s well-versed in my business practices and well respected as my right hand.”

“You don’t need to do that.” Aila looked uncomfortable. “As soon as I’m home, we can arrange for someone to take care of me and the kids. I don’t think Jeri or Stephanie will mind coming in three times a week to clean until I’m back on my feet if we need it.”

“I’m sure they won’t since I’ve already arranged it,” Bishop told her quietly. “But that doesn’t change anything.”

“What do you mean?” Aila wasn’t sure she was up for whatever stunt Bishop was pulling. “What doesn’t it change?”

“The fact I’m not going anywhere until you and the kids can go with me,” Bishop said quietly. “I’m not saying this right, but I’ll be blunt. I love you, and I love the kids. I don’t like being away from you.”

“You’re just saying that because of the accident.” Aila stared at her hands. “You’ll be ready to hit the road again in a few weeks. You love your businesses, and you love traveling.”

“I used to love traveling,” Bishop informed her. “All of that changed on this last trip. I’d already realized something had to give before I left Japan. I was going to talk to you about making some changes when I came back. I’d already decided I wanted you and the kids to go with me on the longer trips. Now, I just want you with me, period. I’m sure Corey will understand.”

“Probably.” Aila closed her eyes. “I’m sure she will, since she’s suggested that a couple of times herself. But are you sure? What you’re asking is a big change for all of us.”

“Yes, it is.” Bishop agreed. “But it won’t be by the time you’re well enough to travel. Sofie’s school is on board with her doing her assignments online when we’re out of the country. Since Connie will be with us, she can watch the kids when one of us can’t. She’ll love that.”

She was crazy about Sofie and Ethan already.

“It sounds like you have everything all worked out.” Aila picked at her covers.

“Pretty much.” Bishop agreed. “So, what do you think?”

“That sounds like a dream come true.” Aila glanced at him pensively. “Did you mean it?”

“What?” Bishop pretended not to know what she was talking about. “That I love you? I meant every word. Not only do I love you, but I’m deeply in love with you. I think I realized the difference about a month into that trip to Tokyo.

I was sitting in an expensive Japanese restaurant across from Mr. Kobayashi and his stunning young wife, eating a wonderful meal, signing paperwork giving me everything I wanted, and I couldn’t care less. I’d scored a major victory, and all I could think was I’d rather be home with my gorgeous younger wife sipping herbal tea and watching her belly grow while our daughter drew pictures at the breakfast table.”

“That’s so wrong.” Aila laughed, ignoring the pain. “You’re the great Nolan Bishop, not some ordinary man with an ordinary family living an ordinary life doing ordinary things.”

“Oh, I assure you, I’m a very ordinary man living an ordinary life when it comes to my wife and family.” Bishop corrected her. “While the journey was humbling, the realization wasn’t. My life is more fulfilling than it’s ever been.”

“Are you sure about that?” Aila reached for his hand. “There’s nothing that could make it better?”

“Maybe.” Bishop took her good hand. “What do you have in mind?”

“Nothing all that earth-shattering.” Aila blinked at him. “Maybe just telling you I love you, too. I think I have from the start.”

Possibly from the first moment they’d met when she’d been too scared to think straight, much less rein in her runaway feelings.

“That’s pretty earth-shattering.” Bishop realized her recent experiences had finally given her the courage to lay everything on the line. “But I’m glad to hear it. I wasn’t sure you’d ever come around.”

His tone was open and honest.

“I wasn’t sure I would either,” Aila admitted. “But almost dying changes things. From what Corey tells me,” She stared him straight in the eyes. “I crashed a couple of times, and that got me thinking. If I hadn’t come back, I’d have left without telling you how I feel. That’s not right. You’re a good man. You deserve to know you’re loved like that.”

Fighting back tears, Aila was overwhelmed by how stupid she’d been and how much time she’d wasted that they could never get back.

“Besides, you’ve never given me any reason to distrust you, and I don’t think you ever will. Not intentionally. You say what you mean and mean what you say. That’s hard not to love. Especially when you combine that with the fact that you’re drop-dead gorgeous and the best father I’ve ever seen.”

Forget the best husband and lover part. He didn’t need to hear what he already knew without her telling him. Bishop’s ego was healthy enough as it was. She’d hate to deal with him if she told him that. He’d be insufferable in a humorous way.

“You’re still as much of an emotional mess as you’ve ever been.” Bishop shook his head. “Forget my looks and the kids, what about the fact I happen to love you, too?”

“That plays into it somewhere, I’m sure.” Aila sniffed loudly as she reached for a tissue to wipe her eyes. “I, ah, I never thought that would happen.”

Despite what he said.

“Well, it did.” Bishop leaned over to take the tissue from her hand and gently brush a tear from her cheek. “So, what do you want to do about it?”

Aila contemplated for a few moments.

“Live happily ever after.” She all but whispered. “Like the fairy tale.”

Which one, she wasn’t sure. Maybe any of them, or all of them, or a combination thereof. She didn’t care if the story ended with a smile.

“I think we can do that, barring the occasional bump in the road.” Bishop dropped a kiss on her lips. “But this is no fairy tale.”

“I don’t guess it is.” Aila kissed him back. “It’s real life, but better.”

“It is.” Bishop returned her smile as he sat back in his chair. “Now that we’re done, you can go back to sleep. I’ll still be here in the morning.”

“I’d rather spend time with you.” Aila worried her bottom lip. “I don’t think I could sleep if I wanted to.”

Shaking his head in silent resignation, Bishop had a feeling Aila was about to pull a Sofie and talk his ear off. She didn’t do it often, so he didn’t mind. Not considering she hadn’t said much lately. She hadn’t been able to. Besides, if they were planning their future, she could talk all she wanted, and he’d listen, although he might override her here and there. He’d have to wait and see. For the most part, they shared the same hopes and dreams.

A Necessary Convenience