Jeannie James Author

Excerpt

"It was nice meeting you, Adam Laurence. Thank you for a wonderful time on that magical island."

Taking her hand, he kissed it lightly. "The pleasure was mine." Getting a firm grasp, he pulled her closer. She watched his mouth as he moved it slowly closer to hers, parting her lips in anticipation. He kissed her deeply, his lips warm and pliant. But when he lifted his mouth to smile his pleasure, she pulled away.

"Goodbye Adam," she said firmly. Moving away, she turned toward the balcony to collect her shoes and walk down to the driveway. He started abruptly. "Wait! Don't run away! I don't even know your name. Or your phone number."

She grinned over her shoulder, barely breaking her stride. "I'm part of the Network Analyst Protection Program. If I told you, I'd have to kill you."

"Ha!" He had caught up to her and reached to take her arm. "Don't run away."

"Adam." She stopped walking and looked at him, shaking her head. "I'm not looking for a relationship."

"Who said anything about a relationship?" The words were teasing but his voice was firm. "All I want is your phone number."

"I don't think I ought to," she said doubtfully. "I don't really need a boyfriend."

"Madam," he changed his charming tone to one of stern reproval. "You are a flirt. After the way you kissed me on that island, I should be dragging you to the altar to fill out a marriage certificate."

"I'm sorry." She was embarrassed. "I expect it was just the wine at work."

"You said you were perfectly sober."

"A gentleman would never have reminded me of that statement."

"Aha. You're on to me already. I'm not a gentleman."

Another grin spread over her features. "Ruthless, are you?"

"Absolutely. But then, all's fair in the game of love."

"The game of love." Micki considered the phrase. "I like that. I like games."

"So do I," he whispered. "Play it with me. We can have a great time."

This man was much too charming, much too sure of himself. "I don't have a pen," she announced suddenly. "I can't give you my name."

"Of all the lame excuses." He shook his head. "Just tell it to me. I have a great memory." He added with a wicked smile, "I dare you."

Against her better judgment she heard herself saying, "My name's Micki."

"That's better. Micki. An unusual name. Is it short for anything?"

"No," she lied naturally. "Just Micki."

"It fits you." He smiled approvingly, then paused for effect. "Your last name's not Finn, is it?"

"Micki Finn? Hmmm. Not very original." Her voice took on a mocking tone. "Hey Micki, may I call you Ms. Mouse. Where's your ears?" She lowered her voice to normal. "I've heard them all, thanks."

"Sorry. I didn't mean to be trite." He chuckled. "When can I see you again? Let's arrange our next date right now, shall we?"

"No. I'll call you."

He raised an eyebrow. "Don't call me, I'll call you? When you don't even have my phone number?"

"That's the gist of it," she nodded.

"You are a tease, aren't you? But not to worry. We'll see each other again. I can promise you that. You'll find it's not easy to run away from me."

Micki couldn't help feeling a slight shiver of apprehension as she walked away. To stay in control she had to keep moving. It simply wasn't possible for her to form lasting relationships. She knew that as well as she knew her own real name.