Dangerously Close, page 2
She snorted a laugh. “Careful there, big guy. With an ego like that, you might not fit through the doorway to get home tonight.”
His gaze dipped to her mouth, and butterflies danced in her stomach. Stop it! She couldn’t allow this man to affect her. Then again, it had been several months since she had been allowed to flirt. Zander hadn’t even liked her looking at another man, let alone talking to one.
Hunter pointed to her half-empty glass. “Do you want another refill?”
“No, I’m good.”
His smile stretched wider across his face. “Yes, you are very good.”
Pleasurable tingles ran over her. Why did he say it like that?
“Tell me, Ashley.” He leaned on the counter again, staring into her eyes. “What is a woman like you doing in a dump such as this? Because of the way you dress and talk, I can tell you are more educated than our usual patrons. That tells me that you’re not from around here.”
Her heart plummeted, and once again fear took control of her emotions. “I know people who hang out in bars like this, and it’s my hope that I’ll see someone who might jog my memory.”
“Ashley,” he lowered his voice, “the only type of men who come to the bar are the ones a sophisticated woman like you shouldn’t be friends with.”
She nodded. Don’t I know it. “Thanks for caring.”
A soft smile touched his face. “But of course. Isn’t that what bartenders are supposed to do – besides pouring drinks, anyway.”
“Not from what I’ve seen.”
Another patron walked up to the bar, so Hunter took a moment to get the man a beer. She quickly studied the other man to see if he looked familiar, and he didn’t, so she dropped her gaze back to her drink. She really should finish her Coke and leave. But Hunter’s fun personality made her want to stay to get to know him. Impossible! She didn’t have time for that. Not when she was looking for the missing weeks of her memory.
She lifted the drink and finished it. When she placed it back on the counter and looked at Hunter, his gaze was moving around the room. His expression had hardened as though he was suspicious of one of the patrons. Ashley was sure places like this had a bar fight at least once a night. So perhaps this was her cue to leave.
“Hey, Hunter,” she said, getting his attention. “Thanks for cheering me up, but I’d better leave now.”
For a brief moment, Ashley thought he looked panicked, but then he shook his head.
“Wait a moment,” he said before rushing around the counter and walking up next to her.
Her heartbeat hammered faster, and the closer he came, the harder the rhythm beat.
“Before you leave, there’s something I need to tell you,” he said, leaning into her as his arm circled her shoulders.
His face was much closer than before. The musky cologne he wore smelled so nice on him. His arm was like a comforting blanket, and his nearness made her feel safe. Why she felt this about a man she’d barely met, she didn’t know.
“What is it?” she asked in a softer voice.
“You’re in danger,” he whispered into her ear. “Three men just walked into the bar, and they are looking your way. You don’t want to mess with these guys. I can protect you, but you need to follow my lead.”
Fear turned her blood to ice. Why would the bartender say such a thing? But... could she trust him?
TWO
The bartender’s warm breath touching her cheek was the only thing keeping Ashley alert right now. Fear of the unknown had stiffened her body, and she couldn’t turn to look at the other men in the bar – not even if her life depended on it.
“Do you understand me?” he whispered.
She couldn’t speak. Her mind wouldn’t work enough to form words in her mouth.
“Nod if you understand,” he said.
She did as he instructed.
“Follow my lead.”
She nodded again.
He straightened, but not fully, and a loud laugh erupted from his chest. “Oh, Michelle, you are so funny when you’re drunk.”
Ashley snapped her gaze to his. Michelle? Who was that?
“But I’m sorry, beautiful, I can’t let you drive home. It’s the rules, you know. So, let me call you a taxi.”
Her heart lightened briefly from his endearment. He was trying to help her outside, past the other men without them seeing her. She nodded again.
Hunter withdrew his cell phone from his pocket and pretended to dial a number. Keeping his arm around her shoulders, he lifted the phone to his ear.
“Lean against me,” he whispered to her.
Once more, she did as he requested and pressed her head against his hard chest. His fast heartbeat nearly kept the same speed as hers.
“Hi, this is Hunter from The Drunken Dog. I need a taxi right away.”
Hunter’s deep voice put her in a trance as he gave the person on the other line directions to the bar. He pretended to end the phone call, and he slid the phone back in his pocket.
“Okay, beautiful,” using his knuckles, he lifted her chin until she looked into his face, “your ride will be here shortly.”
Hunter smiled at her, and she could tell it was genuine. Fate must have brought her here for him to help her, or at the very least, to bring her some sort of comfort. She mouthed the words, thank you. He winked.
“Are you going to be all right, sweetie?” he asked, his voice louder now. “Or do I need to take you outside for some fresh air?”
She wished she could read his thoughts, but because he had suggested the idea, she might as well go with it. “Outside, please.”
He helped her stand. She pretended to act drunk, since that was the story he was trying to make everyone think was happening. His strong arm wrapped around her waist as he pulled her against him. Keeping her head down, her long hair fell into her face, making her unaware of everyone in the bar.
Hunter walked slowly with her, encouraging her with each step. She continued to play her part, until she heard him swear softly.
“Stumble,” he whispered.
She didn’t hesitate, and she stumbled. Using both of his hands, he lifted her and pressed her against the wall with his body shielding her.
“Oh, my dear, Michelle.” He chuckled. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen you this drunk before.”
Slowly, she lifted her gaze to him. His attention wasn’t directly on her, and he appeared as if he were listening closely to whoever was behind him. Panic grew within her and she clutched the front of his t-shirt.
Suddenly, his eyes widened and he swung his gaze to hers. Before she had a moment to panic, he lowered his head and covered his mouth over hers.
She squeaked from the surprise of his kiss, but seconds later, she realized he was doing this so that the others in the bar couldn’t see her face. He’d asked her to follow his lead, so she must continue to do as he’d asked.
Slowly, she slid her hands up his muscular chest and leaned into him. At first the kiss seemed stiff, but as she pressed herself against him fully, he gathered her in his tender embrace and his lips relaxed.
Heat spread throughout her body, starting where their mouths were connected and going in all different directions. A small moan escaped her throat as pleasure burst in her chest. Heavens, this man definitely was experienced at this. She’d kissed several men in her twenty-six years, but never had it caused her body and mind to weaken, and at the same time come alive as if she’d never felt anything so incredible as his mouth melding with hers.
As he deepened the kiss, all she could think about was cuddling against him and letting him take care of her. Another moan rattled through her throat as she lifted her hands to his face. His trimmed goatee felt just as soft as it looked.
His arms tightened around her as the kiss turned wilder. He caressed her arms and her back, but he couldn’t keep them still. She didn’t want them still... Excitement built inside of her faster, and hotter, than she’d ever felt before. The out-of-control kiss kept her mind spinning in heavenly bliss.
But soon, he slowed their kiss down considerably. Nipping gently on her bottom lip, he gradually pulled away. He cupped her face with his large hands and smiled as he stared into her eyes.
“You’re doing great,” he said, “but now I want you to pass out.”
Disappointment washed over her. No more kissing? But... but...
Grudgingly, she did as he asked, and pretended to collapse. Thankfully, he caught her and lifted her fully in his arms. She pressed her face against his chest again.
He turned, chuckling. “My kiss gets Michelle every time,” he said to the crowd.
Laughter bounced around in the room. Hunter took two steps and stopped. His body stiffened, once again.
“Who is that?” a man asked in a voice she didn’t recognize. It sounded as though he stood very close.
“My girlfriend, Michelle.”
“I’ve never seen you with a girlfriend.”
Ashley held her breath.
“I met her last night.” Hunter’s arm jerked into a shrug. “We can’t get enough of each other.”
There was silence for the next few seconds. She hoped Hunter would be able to get them out of this predicament fast.
“I’m taking her outside, if you don’t mind,” Hunter said in a commanding voice.
“She looks like Z’s princess.”
Ashley’s heartbeat stilled. Z? Who was that?
“She’s not,” Hunter said quickly. “Her name is Michelle. She doesn’t look anything like Z’s princess.”
Princess? Why did they keep referring to that name? But Ashley stayed in her role and pretended she was passed out.
“Have you ever met her?” the other man said.
“Of course, I’ve met her the few times Zander came in the bar. But this isn’t her. Besides, she colored her hair black, don’t you know.” He huffed. “Now, will you let me outside?”
“Fine. But if you’re lying, Zander will have your head on a platter.”
Everything she’d heard came crashing together, and her stomach churned. Hunter knew Zander. Did Hunter work for him? It was hard not to come to that conclusion after the conversation she’d heard. And yet, if Hunter worked for Zander, maybe that’s why she thought he’d looked familiar. However, that didn’t explain why she’d felt safe around him.
Why wouldn’t her memory open up? Then again, maybe she was better off not knowing anything.
“Yeah, I know,” Hunter snapped at the other man and moved away. “Don’t you think I know by now that nobody touches Zander’s women?”
The other men grumbled an incoherent answer as Hunter continued to carry her. Within seconds, the cool night air touched her skin. She kept still, not knowing if Zander’s men were still watching. And yet, Hunter must be one of his men. What was going on, really? She needed answers now. Why was Hunter being so nice to her if he was one of the bad guys?
“Okay, we’re out of the bar,” he said in a low voice.
“Are the cops and TV crew still out here?” she asked, nervously.
“Yes.”
“Take me to my car, please.”
“Which one is it?”
She wiggled in his arms, suddenly feeling as though she was still in danger. “Let me down.”
“I can’t. Not yet.”
“Why?”
He peered into her eyes and grinned. “Because I like holding you.”
Mixed emotions ran through her, but she pushed them all away except for anger. “No, I want you to let me down.”
He stopped and released her legs. As soon as she was able to stand, he removed his arm from around her.
“Hunter, I want to thank you for getting me out of there, but...” Her voice choked, so she cleared it. “I heard what you and the other guy were talking about.”
“Yeah, so.”
“So...” She took a deep breath. Should she tell him that Zander was the man she looked for, but was afraid to find? Fifteen minutes ago, she would have given Hunter that bit of information. But now that she knew who he was, she didn’t trust him.
“So now it’s time for me to leave. I didn’t find what I came here to find, and I need to keep moving.”
Frowning, his gaze narrowed on her. “Really? That’s it?”
“Yes, that’s it.” She shook her head, not knowing exactly what he wanted from her.
“You’re going to share a passionate kiss with me and then leave?” He scratched his goatee. “Dang, lady. I really thought we had something special a few minutes ago. I can’t believe you didn’t feel the sparks.”
Anger grew inside of her. This man must be joking, but she didn’t trust him any longer. “Sparks? Are you kidding? You told me to follow your lead. That’s what I was doing.” She didn’t dare let him think she actually enjoyed their little make-out session. After all, he was one of Zander’s men.
“Oh, I’m crushed.”
She rolled her eyes. Men like Hunter never took things seriously. Although they had just met, she already knew his type. “Why don’t I believe that?”
He glanced back at the bar, before looking at her again. “Which one is your car? I want to make sure you get away safely.”
“It’s the tan Buick Regal.”
Turning toward the parking lot, he slipped his arm around her waist. She gasped and stiffened.
“What are you doing?”
“I’m keeping in character,” he whispered. “Remember, you’re my girlfriend.”
She nodded and allowed him to take her to the car. “Who is Michelle? Is she your real girlfriend?”
Chuckling, he arched an eyebrow. “Why, are you jealous?”
“No. Why would I be jealous?” She gritted her teeth. What was wrong with this guy?
“Michelle is just a woman I used to know.” He stopped by her car and faced her, still holding onto her waist. “Are you going to be okay?”
Hearing the concern in his voice and seeing it in his expression made her heart tug. “Yes. I’ll be fine.”
“I don’t believe you.” He caressed her cheek softly.
“Why not?”
“Because you’re still going to look for corrupt men just to find answers. I’m sorry, beautiful, but that’s a dangerous way to live.”
She wished he’d stop calling her beautiful. “Yes, I’m sure it is, but I want my memory back. I want to know what happened to me to cause my mind to shut down.”
“I understand that, but I’m sure there are other ways—”
“Oh, like going to a hypnotist?” She shook her head. “I tried that. I tried going to psychiatrists, but that didn’t work, either.”
“Ashley, I really want to help you. Please, let me try.”
He rubbed his hand up and down her arm. She couldn’t let him keep doing this to her.
“Please, Hunter,” she muttered and shrugged away from his touch.
“Let me help you, Ashley.”
He wound his arms around her shoulders as his body pressed against hers. Her heart and mind played tug-of-war. She couldn’t stop thinking about the kiss they’d shared, but neither could she dismiss the truth. He was one of Zander’s men which meant she couldn’t trust him.
She pushed him away. “If you really want to help me, then you need to tell me the truth. Now, Hunter.”
His gaze narrowed. “What do you mean?”
“You told those other men in the bar that you knew who Zander’s girlfriend was.”
Hunter’s eyebrow arched. “I was telling them what they wanted to know just so I could get you out of the bar.” He shrugged. “I lied to them.”
“So... you really don’t know me?”
“Why? Are you Zander’s girlfriend?”
“If you want to help me, I need to know... Do you know me at all? Please? Telling me the truth is the only way.”
“Of course, I know you.” His voice softened. “You are Ashley Reynolds, a very frightened, beautiful woman who has been educated, and brought up in a fine home. Your parents are probably wealthy, too. I know that you have a very kind heart, and a cute personality. And, last but definitely not least, you can kiss like a sweet angel, and at the same time, ignite me as if you were a blazing hot siren set on seduction.” He pushed his fingers lightly in her hair.
His words were trying to seduce her again, but she wasn’t going to let him. If he was one of Zander’s men, he would certainly know about Ashley Reynolds. Wouldn’t he?
“You don’t know me at all.” Grumbling with confusion, she dug through her purse to find her keys as irritation weighed heavily on her chest. It was hard to believe that Hunter could tell she’d been raised in a wealthy home. She had been well-educated, too. Her college degree in finance had assisted in getting her a job in her father’s bank in Manhattan. A few years later, that’s where she’d met the very charming and good-looking Zander Caruthers, who was also from a prominent family.
“I wish you luck, then.” Hunter leaned against the driver’s side door so she couldn’t open it. “But you’ll be safer if I help you out.”
She gave him an irritated look. “You really do have an ego problem, don’t you?”
He chuckled. “Not really, no.”
“Good-bye, Hunter. It was very... entertaining meeting you.”
She clicked on the car remote to unlock the doors and opened the door. Over the noise from the crowd gathered at the crime scene, the roar of a truck’s engine became louder. Before she could look to see who was pulling in the parking lot at full-speed, Hunter grumbled a cuss.
“Get in the car. Now!” he demanded.
Shocked at his sudden mood swing, she didn’t move as she stared curiously at him. Panic lines etched his face as he snatched the car keys away from her and pushed her inside the car.
“What are you doing?” she asked in a high-pitched voice as she ducked before she could whack her head.
He didn’t answer. Instead, he pushed her over to the passenger’s seat and climbed inside the Buick with her. Seconds later, he had the car started and was putting it in gear.
