Tender Loving Passion: Temptation and Lies

She could barely concentrate on the conversation going on around her and then as they left Michael was right behind her and whispered, “I want to make love to you, and I will.”

The words were as much a promise as a threat. Michael Burke never said he would do anything without fully intending to do it.

When she and Ashley returned to their office, Mia was unusually subdued, but that didn’t stop Ashley from voicing her opinion.

“I can see why you and a hundred other women would be attracted to Michael Burke,” she said, taking a seat opposite Mia’s desk without being asked. “And I also see that he still cares about you. But the only thing that really concerns me is that I see the same thing in you for him.”

Mia’s eyes flashed in Ashley’s direction. She started to debate the point, but it was useless. She did have feelings for Michael. What they were she wasn’t sure, but they were there just beneath the surface. She covered her face then finally found the courage to look at Ashley.

“I don’t know what to do,” she finally said.

“Look, I can take over this account so you won’t have to deal with him.”

“If I could have you do that, I would in a heartbeat.”

“This is the part you can’t talk about.” It was more of a statement than a question.

Mia nodded.

“Then I’m fresh out of suggestions.” She pushed up from the seat. “But whatever I can do to help, let me know.”

“Thanks.”

* * *

“Is something bothering you?”

Mia’s head snapped up. She turned toward the doorway. Steven was standing there.

“Just a little tired, I guess. Kinda busy day at work. Nothing that a hot bath and a good night’s sleep won’t cure.”

“You sure that’s it?”

“Yes. Why?”

He rocked his jaw a minute. He started to tell her that he’d seen her in the car and had been standing in the doorway while she sat motionless and totally unaware of him. But he didn’t want to hear her lie to him anymore.

“Nothing. Just asking. Look, I’m going to run out for a while.”

“Oh.” Mia focused on him as if seeing him for the first time. “Out?”

“Yes. Out. I’ll see you later.” Without further explanation he turned and walked away.

Mia sat there for a moment, too drained to react. It was probably best that Steven did go out for a while, she reasoned. She needed some time to push away Michael’s words, wash away the heat of his breath on the back of her neck, the touch of his hand at the small of her back and the look in his eyes that said, I’m coming for you.

Her cell phone chirped. She dug it out of her tote and immediately recognized the number.

“Hello, Jean.”

“I’m calling to remind you that I’m going to need an update from you by the end of the week.”

“Of course.”

“How much progress have you made?”

“I’ve made contact and I’ve established an opportunity to get inside the company.”

“Excellent. I knew you would be the perfect one for this assignment. I’ll expect a complete update.” She clicked off without so much as a goodbye.

However, as much as Mia didn’t want to admit it, Jean’s call was just the kick start that she needed. With Steven out of the house, it was the perfect time to check and sync all the devices. If she got really lucky, she might hear something worthwhile.

Chapter 10

Steven got in his BMW and headed off with no particular destination in mind. Driving usually cleared his head, especially when he was working on a difficult design problem. He usually didn’t take evening drives to get his head right regarding relationships. If he drove somewhere, it was either home or away for good.

This was different. But everything about his and Mia’s relationship was different. He was treading in brand-new territory and he had no idea where the land mines were.

He took the exit to the West Side Highway and headed south toward the Chelsea Piers.

The area had been totally revitalized over the past few years with bike and roller-skating lanes, benches and trees. The set for Law & Order was inside the pier as well, just off 23rd Street.

He slowed, pulled into one of the parking areas and got out. If there was one thing that could always be counted on in New York, it was that there was guaranteed to be people out doing something no matter the time, day or the weather. Truly, the city that never sleeps.

Steven set the alarm on his car and began to stroll along the docks. Anchored crafts bobbed in the water and the masts of the massive, once-military vessels, jutted toward the darkened skies.

A young couple Rollerblading streaked past him, followed by several joggers. A stiff fall breeze blew in from the water. He drew up the collar of his jacket around his neck. Lights ahead drew his attention and he walked toward them.

On one of the commercial strips was a small restaurant and bar located next to a bowling alley that was also still open for business. He decided to go into the restaurant.

“Good evening,” said a young woman dressed in black. “Will you be having dinner or would you prefer to sit at the bar?”

“The bar is fine. Thanks.”

“Up the stairs to the left. Enjoy your evening.”

Steven walked toward the bar and found an empty seat in the middle of the horseshoe-shape counter.

“What can I get for you this evening?”

Steven glanced up.

“Steven? Steven Long?”

He focused on the attractive face and tried to place her. “I’m sorry...” he said helplessly.

“Michelle Dennis. You used to date my friend, Renee McDonald.”

Recognition popped in his eyes. “Wow.” He shook his head in embarrassment. “I’m sorry. Spaced out for a minute. How are you?”