Chapter 6

Of all of the absurd things she'd done, this one topped the list. According to the media this was the wedding. Even her friends, who like her didn't care about the actions of the rich and famous, had been talking about this wedding for months. And it was hard not to. The President's formerly unknown illegitimate daughter was marrying billionaire CEO Dylan Talbot who just happened to be the President's stepson.

Charlie couldn't help but think that she shouldn't be going. She had no ties to the family and had only known Jake for a couple of weeks. Yet even though she planned to tell Jake she'd changed her mind, each time she tried she couldn't bring herself to do it. How often did someone like her get to attend a wedding like this?

The prospect of seeing the wedding wasn't the only thing that held Charlie back from canceling. Though she hated to admit it, she was looking forward to spending a few days away with Prince Charming as the media like to call him. She knew he would be returning to Virginia soon. While the town wasn't yet back to normal, everything continued to improve and the day-to-day recovery operations didn't require Jake's attention. Besides who knew when his foundation's help would be needed elsewhere.

When he left she'd miss him. While they didn't live that far apart in Virginia they didn't exactly travel in the same circles. The likelihood of them seeing each other again was remote, which shouldn't have bothered her. Or at least she kept telling herself that as she packed.

You've got to get your head on straight. Enjoy your time with him but don't get attached. Once he leaves, that's it. Chances are he won't even remember your name.

A wave of sadness crashed over her at the thought of him forgetting her. Charlie knew she wouldn't forget him or the kisses they'd shared. Then again she didn't have gorgeous men throwing themselves at her feet left and right. Jake on the other hand had no shortage of women looking to spend time with him. Though he'd downplayed the number of relationships he'd been in, Charlie didn't doubt the number still far surpassed her not insignificant total.

Charlie balled up a t-shirt and shoved it into her bag, then zipped it closed. Damn that hurricane. It had upset more than just the town. It'd even managed to wreak havoc on her usually well-controlled emotions.

From now on she was going to keep her emotions in check. No longer would it bother her that Jake would soon be just a pleasant memory that she could share with her friends when she got home. With her mind made up she pulled the bag off the bed and headed downstairs.

SOMEBODY NEEDS TO WAKE ME. Charlie fidgeted in the front seat, her stomach churning with anxiety as Jake drove the Escalade through the security gate at Cliff House. Before she could stop herself she turned to look out the back window as the gate closed, keeping out any unwanted visitors including the numerous news vans parked on the street.

“I can't believe the reporters are here already,” Charlie said turning back around. “The wedding isn't until tomorrow afternoon.”

Jake reached over and took hold of her hand. Charlie knew he could feel how clammy it was yet he didn't comment. Thank God. Just having him know she was nervous embarrassed her. She didn't need him commenting on it too.

“They've probably been here all week. Imagine the disaster it would be if those vultures missed something.” Jake's tone told her all she needed to know about how he viewed the reporters.

After traveling down a long winding driveway, Jake pulled into a garage bigger than her house and filled with expensive cars. At the far end sat a black Aston Martin and next to it was a bright red Ferrari.

“Did you tell your family you were bringing a guest?” Butterflies took off in her stomach at the thought of meeting the owners of the cars parked around them.

“I told Callie. I'm sure she told everyone else.” Jake pulled the keys out of the ignition but didn't make any move to get out. “Don't tell me the doctor is nervous?”

Charlie licked her dry lips and looked everywhere but at him. She never suffered attacks of nervousness, yet a mammoth butterfly fluttered around in her stomach now.

Reaching out Jake cupped the side of her face. “You shouldn't be nervous. My family is a little annoying but generally harmless.”

A sarcastic laugh escaped Charlie. “Your father is the President of the United States. He's the most powerful man in the world. I wouldn't call him harmless.”

Jake shrugged and threw her a carefree grin. “Don't worry Doc, I'll protect you. Promise.” Without hesitating he leaned closer and sealed his promise with a gentle kiss. A kiss that turned from gentle to hungry and urgent in the blink of an eye.

Man that guy kisses like nobody’s business. Charlie didn't want to think about all the practice he must have had to get that incredible. If she did, the ugly jealousy monster would begin to make an appearance again. Jealousy wasn't a rational emotion and definitely not one she had any right to feel.

Charlie knew the minute he decided to end the kiss. There was a subtle change in the pressure of his lips. It was always that way. For a moment she toyed with the idea of trying to get him to continue his heavenly onslaught. More than once she'd been able to do it. But today she doubted she'd be able to.

“I'd love to stay here with you all day, but they'll be wondering where we are. The Secret Service will have let them know we've arrived.”

Charlie nodded, not wanting to speak. If she did, Jake would know just how breathless his kiss left her and she didn't see any need to stroke the guy's ego.

“Just relax. Everything will be fine. You're going to have a great weekend.”

Jake didn't wait for a reply; instead he opened his car door.

“Enjoy yourself and think of all the stories you'll be able to tell people later,” she said under her breath as she waited for Jake to open her car door. A few weeks earlier she would have done it herself, but since spending time in his company she'd gotten used to him opening doors for her. While she'd never admit it to anyone, she liked having him do it. It made her feel pampered and special. When they parted ways she would miss these unfamiliar feelings. I'm not going to focus on that now. This weekend is all about having some fun. Jake reached for her hand and they walked out of the garage and into the bright sunshine together.

They hadn't even made it out of the grand marble-tiled foyer with its pillars and vaulted ceiling when a petite woman with long mahogany hair and eyes identical to Jake's greeted them. Charlie may not read popular celebrity magazines often, but even she recognized Callie Taylor, Jake's half-sister. She'd thought the woman was pretty when she'd seen her in photos but they didn't do her justice. It was no wonder Dylan Talbot had fallen in love with her.

Jake enveloped the petite woman in a warm hug making it clear to Charlie just how much he cared about her. When was the last time Sean hugged her like that? The question popped into Charlie's head out of nowhere. Her brother never showed his emotions, even when they were younger. He didn't hug but rather gave a slap on the back. Watching Jake with his sister sent her back through her memories searching for the last time Sean had given her a hug even remotely close to the one Jake shared with Callie. It'd been right after their parents' divorce when she'd realized her dad wasn't coming home. Sean had hugged her as she cried and he promised that everything would be fine. Up till that day she had secretly hoped her dad still might come home even though he'd been gone a year. That somehow things would go back to the way they were before he walked out on them without even saying goodbye. Yet when her mom and Sean returned home from the courthouse that afternoon, she'd known life would never be the same.

“This is Charlotte.”

Jake's words pulled her away from her memories and back to the marble foyer.

“You've probably guessed already, but this is my sister and the bride-to-be, Callie.”

Charlie smiled. “Nice to meet you.” Extending her hand she waited for the other woman to take it but instead Callie stepped toward her and hugged her. Taken back Charlie stood frozen for half a second before returning the warm gesture.

“I'm glad you could come. Someone needs to make sure my brother behaves himself,” Callie said nodding in Jake's direction. In a flash the smile that had been on Callie's face faded. “Warren wants to see you.”

By the way Callie looked over at Jake, Charlie guessed he already knew what his father wanted

“I'll keep Charlotte company.”

Despite his sister's reassurance Jake still didn't move. Something was up. Jake always spoke warmly about his family, giving her the impression that they were a tight-knit group, so his current reluctance didn't make a lot of sense.

Mind your own business. If he wants to share he will, Charlie told herself.

“Go ahead. I'll be fine.” Charlie took a step away from him.

JAKE WATCHED as his sister led Charlie away. “Do you like baseball?” He heard his sister ask as the women walked up the grand staircase.

At least someone will have a good afternoon. Jake turned toward the hall that led to his father's study. Callie was one of the friendliest people he knew. If anyone could make Charlie feel comfortable here, it was her. Why couldn't his father have waited for this? He knew his father wanted to discuss the Blair situation. A situation he was already handling. He didn't need his family getting involved. Although he'd expected their interference, he'd hoped they'd wait till after the wedding. They knew he had a guest with him.

Standing in front of his father's study, he paused. Right now he should be the one showing Charlie around. Maybe they could have hid out on the sail boat he kept moored here for some private time before lunch. She'd told him she was eager to give sailing a try. But instead of doing that he was about to face the firing squad.

Hell.

Raising his fist, he knocked on the heavy mahogany door and waited. From the other side his father told him to come in. Taking another deep breath, he turned the knob and entered.

The familiar scent of old books and leather enveloped him. He'd always loved this room. Other than his own private suite on the second floor overlooking the ocean, this was his favorite room at Cliff House. As usual his father sat behind his massive antique desk, a mug of coffee and several documents in front of him. On the other side of the desk in one of the leather chairs sat his half-brother Dylan.

“About time my best man got here,” Dylan greeted. Coming to his feet he smiled and gave Jake a thump on the back.

Jake couldn't remember ever seeing his brother as happy as he'd been during the past year and today was no exception. “Wouldn't miss it for the world. Just don't forget you wouldn't even be getting married if it wasn't for me. You owe me one.” Jake couldn't resist giving his brother a hard time.

“I'll be sure to return the favor if the need ever arises,” Dylan replied with all seriousness.

Jake saw his father take off his reading glasses, a signal that he was ready to get down to business. Cursing under his breath he took the other seat in front of the desk. “None of it's true,” he said before anyone else could say a word.

“Are you sure? You were with Blair for several months. Accidents happen.”

No kidding? Really? Wasn't Callie proof of that? Jake wanted to say but held back. Being a wise ass toward his father wasn't going to help with anything. “She'd have to be at least four months pregnant for it to be mine. I ran into her a few weeks ago and there's no way Blair is that pregnant.” Jake shifted in his seat. Even though he was an adult he still found it uncomfortable to discuss his sex life with his father. With his brother it was one thing, but it didn't feel right with his father.

“Are you sure about that? Could you be confused about the dates?” his father asked.

Jake heard Dylan cover up a half laugh with a fake cough and threw him a dirty look. “I ended things with her over 2 months ago and before that I was in England for over a month. You know she didn't come with me.” Even if it'd been a normal trip he wouldn't have taken Blair, but this trip had been anything but typical. “Before I left we hadn't been spending a lot of time together. Besides we always used something.” Though he hadn't ended things with her until coming back, he'd known their relationship wasn't working before he left for England.

How could he have been so wrong about Blair? He'd known she wasn't the woman for him, but he never would have guessed she'd pull this stunt.

“I see. Have you spoken to her? Any idea why she's coming at you like this?”

Jake watched as his father drummed his finger tips on the desk telling him he was deep in thought trying to examine the problem from all aspects.

“Damned if I know.” He raked a hand through his hair. “We talked recently and she didn't mention a thing to me then. She just asked me to meet her in New York for the weekend. I already called my lawyer.” Jake wanted his father to know he was already on top of things.

“What did he say?” Dylan asked.

“He's pushing for an ultrasound and DNA testing.”

“I want to get Marty and our lawyers involved with this. They should be able to get this mess cleared up before it does too much damage to the family.”

More than anything he wanted to avoid having the family's team of lawyers and Marty Phillips involved in this. There was no denying that Marty Phillips knew what he was doing. Jake didn't like him, especially not after the way he'd treated Callie the year before. And while the lawyers that worked for Sherbrooke Enterprises were some of the best around, he had full confidence in his own hand-picked lawyer.

“No. Don't get them involved. I will take care of this problem.”

When his father didn't immediately respond, Jake assumed he was preparing his counter argument. Not that it would do any good. He'd already made up his mind and nothing his father said would change it.

“Are you positive? They'll be able to get things to happen quicker.” Warren leaned back in his chair.

“I've got this one, Dad.” Jake said in tone that let his father and brother know he was done discussing the situation.

“Callie told me you brought a date,” Dylan said changing the topic of their conversation. “You must have just met her. Last time we talked you planned on flying solo.”

Jake didn't miss the curiosity in his half-brother's voice or the raised eyebrow his father threw in his direction. He could imagine the questions floating around in his father's head. Though Dylan knew he wasn't the player the media made him out to be, his father didn't.

“Met her in North Salem. Her family runs the bed and breakfast where I've been staying.”

“What do you know about her?” his father asked, reaching for his coffee.

It was a valid question especially considering the current situation with his ex, but it still irked him. Who he spent his time with was no one's business but his.

“She's a Navy doctor stationed in Virginia. And I should save her from Callie before she bores her to death with wedding details.” Jake came to his feet and started to walk toward the door, pleased that he could use this opportunity to get away from the grilling and back to Charlie. “I'll see you both at the rehearsal dinner,” he called over his shoulder before heading off in search of Charlie and his sister.

THE VIEW from the guest bedroom reminded her of something out of a movie. Actually everything in Cliff House looked as if it belonged either on some classic movie set or in a museum. Antique furniture filled the rooms. Priceless paintings hung in gilded frames on the walls and marble fireplaces were located in each room.

Although she'd grown up in New England and had visited Newport a few times, she'd never toured any of the mansions that lined Bellevue Avenue. Before today she'd only seen pictures of these American castles and none had really prepared her for being inside one of these magnificent homes built by the ultra wealthy of the 19th century as summer cottages.

“If I had a view like this, I'd never leave,” Charlie said. She, Callie and Callie's best friend Lauren sat on the balcony off Charlie's room drinking freshly brewed iced tea. As Jake had predicted she really liked his half-sister. She was friendly and down to earth. Charlie suspected that might be partially because she hadn't grown up in the world of the super rich.

Callie nodded, a smile spread across her heart-shaped face. “I agree. I have trouble leaving every time I come.”

“I think the only reason she does leave is because Mrs. Sherbrooke doesn't allow her and Dylan to share a bedroom when she's around,” Lauren said refilling her glass.

“Seriously?”

Callie nodded. “Elizabeth doesn't like Dylan and me to share a room when she's here. She's a little old-fashioned sometimes. That's why you have your own room this weekend. But don't worry Jake's just down the hall.”

Trying not to be obvious, Charlie glanced at her watch. More than an hour had passed since Jake left her to meet with his father, and although she was comfortable in Callie's company she wondered what kept him.

“They'll probably be done soon.” Callie picked up her glass of iced tea. “Dylan and Warren both know you're here.”

No sooner did Callie speak the words than Jake walked in. Charlie could tell something was bothering him the second she saw him. The easy-going smile that usually graced his face was gone and had been replaced with a somber look. Whatever his father wanted to see him about had obviously upset him.

“Not sure I like the looks of this. What stories have you been telling her about me Callie?” Jake walked over and dropped into the cushioned chair next to hers.

Though he tried to keep his voice light and carefree it sounded strained to her, and she couldn't help but try to cheer him up with a little teasing. “Who said we're talking about you. I know you find it hard to believe, but you're not the only man in the world. Callie was telling me about a friend she has coming to the wedding and she thinks he's perfect for me. She's going to introduce us so we can dance.” Though her teasing statement lacked much originality she hoped it would at least elicit a laugh from him. Instead it seemed to have the opposite effect as a stormy look of anger passed over his face.

“Don't think so Doc. I've already filled up your dance card for tomorrow.”

She wanted to come back with a sassy reply, but she didn't have one. A blank slate now occupied her mind. She wasn't used to men being possessive of her actions. With anyone else, she knew she would resent it. For some reason though, Charlie didn't find the comment offensive coming from him. He's just playing around too. And you did open yourself up for it.

In the end though it didn't matter that she didn't have a smart comeback because Callie changed the topic of the conversation to Jake's work in North Salem. While she could have added to the discussion, Charlie remained silent, only speaking when Jake or Callie directed a question her way. By doing so she got an up close and personal look at Jake with his family. Something she guessed few people got.

“Before I forget, the Marshalls are coming,” Callie said after Jake finished answering her question about recovery efforts.

Charlie assumed this was somehow significant because the second the words left Callie's mouth Jake groaned.

“All of them or just Richard and Janet?”

“All. Sorry. Your mom insisted we couldn't leave them out.”

Charlie glanced from Callie to Jake and finally Lauren who was attempting to stifle a laugh. “What's wrong with the Marshalls?”

“What isn't?” Jake replied.

Callie tossed her brother a dirty look and then answered. “Richard and Warren grew up together and have stayed close. He and his wife aren't the problem. Evidently their youngest daughter has always had a thing for my brother. When they were all here for New Year's Eve she wouldn't leave him alone.”

“More like she stalked me all night, even though I had a date.”

“How old is she?” The person in question must be very young. She envisioned an infatuated fifteen year old following Jake around the ballroom.

“A little younger than Sara, right?” Callie looked over at Jake for confirmation.

Jake slumped back in his chair and put his feet up on the railing. “Yeah. I think she's twenty-two.”

Okay, maybe not so young. Someone that age should know better. “Don't worry I'll protect you from her.” Charlie patted him on the knee.

“He just might need it,” Lauren added with a half laugh. “Her behavior on New Year's Eve was obsessive.”

THE WEDDING REHEARSAL began promptly at four-thirty. Charlie got the impression that everything around here started and ended exactly on time. She found this strangely comforting. She liked things to happen when they were supposed to. It just made life simpler. More organized.

From her seat on the lawn she watched as the wedding planner explained what each member of the wedding party needed to do. Though she'd never been in a wedding, she didn't really see any great need for a rehearsal beforehand. The chances of anyone there not having been to a wedding before or at least seeing one on TV were slim, so unless the bride and groom had something unusual planned, a rehearsal seemed like a waste of time. Even if it seemed pointless to her, it did give Charlie another chance to observe Jake with his family. Not to mention it gave her a chance to enjoy her surroundings. With its well-manicured gardens, sprawling lawns and view of the ocean the property around Cliff House was just as magnificent as the mansion itself.

Despite the breathtaking scenery, Charlie didn't find herself focusing on that. Instead her eyes zeroed in on the interaction between each of Jake's family members. The camaraderie between Jake and his half-brother Dylan and between Jake and Callie spoke volumes. At the same time Charlie could sense tension between Sara, Jake's full sister, and everyone else. Especially between Sara and Callie.

What is the deal between them? While everyone else appeared relaxed and bantered back and forth, Sara remained rigid and spoke only when someone drew her into the conversation. Perhaps she'd ask Jake; assuming they got some time alone together. So far it hadn't happened. They'd been surrounded by people since getting there, though Jake promised they would get plenty of time to themselves before the weekend ended.

Charlie hoped he was right. She'd made the trip with him for that very reason even though she knew her time would be better spent back in North Salem. Not only could she provide help to anyone who needed an extra hand, but she could be mulling over her own decisions without Jake around as a distraction. She'd hoped getting away from Norfolk for a while would help her make up her mind about her career in the Navy. Yet she'd been in North Salem for weeks now and she was still up in the air on whether to stay in the Navy or return to civilian life.

True she still had time. The final decision didn't have to be made this month, but she wanted to decide soon. Leaving things up in the air drove her crazy. The sooner she made up her mind the better. If she chose to leave the Navy, she opened herself up to a whole new world of decisions and opportunities. If she stayed, life would proceed pretty much as it had for the last several years. So the big question was did she want to enter uncharted territory or stay with the safe and familiar.

Every decision she'd made in life so far gravitated toward safe options. Even when it came to men and relationships she picked the safe options. She dated only men who wouldn't capture her heart and then walk out once they did. At least she always did until now. Somehow she knew Jake could do some serious damage to her heart if she let him. They'd only known each other a short time and already she felt more emotionally connected to him than any other man she'd dated. How had she let that happen?

He's not looking for long-term either. Jake's the kind of guy who hangs around for a while then moves on when he gets bored. There's nothing to worry about. Except my heart.

Charlie forced herself to recall some of the magazine headlines she'd read over the years about Jake. They always painted him as the handsome playboy with women across the globe. Even though her mind pulled up plenty of names and incidents connected with his, Charlie wondered if it was all true. A month ago she would've said yes, but not now. Some of it had to be true. Pictures didn't lie, yet a picture could paint a misleading story.

From the altar Jake winked at her and Charlie's heart skipped a beat, something she'd never experienced before. Without a second thought she smiled and waved back, not once considering what his family would think if they saw her. She assumed they were already wondering what kind of relationship existed between them anyway. After all one didn't normally invite a virtual stranger to a family wedding. At least in her world people didn't. Yet if they were curious no one said anything to her.

“I'VE THOUGHT about this all day.” Jake wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her against him now that they were finally alone.

Charlie melted against him enjoying the warmth of his solid chest on her back and Jake's possessive embrace. Around them the crickets sang as the waves crashed against the shore. Above them stars sparkled liked diamonds in the clear sky.

Now this is romantic. A night to remember. She suspected she could live out the rest of her life and not experience a more romantic setting.

“Sorry we didn't get much time together earlier.” As he spoke Jake nuzzled the side of her neck. “Sunday it'll be just you and me. Promise.”

He whispered the last part of his sentence in her ear, filling her with desire that unfolded in her belly then spread like fire through her body. Words never affected her this way. They never made her want to throw her arms around a guy and beg him to make love to her. Beg him to make promises that he wouldn't be able to keep. Yet Jake's words were doing just that. More than anything she wanted to turn around and tell him to take her to his room where they could both enjoy the magnetism between them.

So what if she did? They were both adults. Who would care? Nobody.

“Family comes first.” Charlie struggled to form a complete thought despite the sensations coursing through her body as he began to kiss the other side of her neck. “And this is your sister's wedding. I shouldn't even be here.”

Jake's arms left her waist and he spun her around so she faced him. “Did Sara say something to you?”

His initial reaction took her aback. Had his sister complained about his choice of dates? The youngest Sherbrooke hadn't joined the rest of the family until the wedding rehearsal, so Charlie had barely spoken to her. Still, she had noticed that Sara kept herself somewhat separated from everyone during both the rehearsal and the dinner party that followed.

“We only talked for a few minutes. She just asked how we met. Why, do you think she said something?” Charlie found it odd that he'd suspected Sara and not anyone else.

Jake took a deep breath and slowly exhaled. “Sara doesn't trust people much anymore thanks to her last boyfriend. Not even family. When she met Callie last year she was less than accepting. Even now things are a little rocky between them.”

“Oh,” Charlie said, now starting to understand why Sara had kept to herself during the rehearsal. “Really no one said anything. But most people don't take virtual strangers to family weddings.” She might as well tell him exactly what she thought.

Jake's stance relaxed and he once again wrapped his arms around her. “What better way to learn more about each other than to spend the weekend together.”

Talk about not getting the point. Did he really think bringing her along was no big deal? Perhaps he did things like this all the time. “Do you always invite strangers to your parents' house?” The question slipped out before she could stop it. “Forget I even asked. It doesn't matter,” Charlie said disgusted by her lack of control. She didn't have a monopoly on him.

Jake chuckled and she felt his chest rumble beneath her breasts.

“You're the first I've invited to spend the weekend.”

A warm tingly feeling spread through her body at his words, and Charlie fought it down. She didn't for one second want to think she was special to this man. She didn't want to think that he viewed her any differently than he did any other woman he spent time with.

“And it's not like I just pulled you off the street.”

Charlie couldn't argue with him there. They'd seen each other every day since his arrival in North Salem. Still, she knew he didn't get what she meant, but she didn't feel like pressing the issue either. Why ruin the mood?

“I'm probably going to leave Massachusetts either Tuesday or Wednesday. There isn't much else that I can do there and I've got issues waiting for me in Virginia.”

Jake's words brought an unexpected and unwanted physical pang to her heart. She knew his departure was inevitable. She had in fact been expecting it. Despite this, sadness rolled over her.

“How much longer will you be up here? If it's going to be awhile I can come back up but otherwise I thought we could see each other when you get back home.” Jake looked her in the eye as he spoke.

His question sent her mind into overdrive. He wanted to continue their relationship or whatever this was past his time in North Salem. But did she? Could she continue to spend time with him and keep her heart firmly locked away? She'd never doubted it with other men but with Jake the uncertainty plagued her. Perhaps if she could figure out what it was about him that reached her on such a deep level, she could adequately protect herself. As of yet she hadn't been able to narrow it down.

“Not sure. I have a few more weeks of leave. I plan on spending at least some of it up here.” She hadn't decided when she would go back to Virginia. Charlie found being with her family a nice change despite the hurricane and the destruction it caused. Not to mention that on this trip she felt no urgency to return home. On her last visit up she'd counted the days till she could get back in her car and drive home.

In the bright moonlight she saw Jake nod his head.

“I'll plan on coming back up then. Maybe next weekend.”

Before Charlie could say anything, Jake grazed her lips with his. The kiss started out gentle, but quickly it changed as he applied more pressure. Soon he set about coaxing her lips apart, and Charlie happily gave him access. At the same time he slipped his hands under the hem of her shirt. Slowly he ran his hand up her back leaving a trail of fire across her skin. Unwilling to do much of anything else Charlie circled her arms around his neck and enjoyed the fire coursing through her body. Right then under the moonlight outside a nineteenth century mansion with the sound of the waves in the background and the fragrant smell of flowers around her, Charlie felt like the heroine from a classic black and white movie.

Jake took his time getting to know the contours of her back and Charlie relished every second of it. Once his hands made it to her shoulders, he let them begin to wander down her back. When they reached the hooks at the back of her bra they slowly circled around to the bottom of her rib cage. Charlie inhaled deeply as his fingers skimmed over her ribs before cupping her breasts. At the same time he kicked up the intensity of his kiss sending white hot desire spiraling through her body. Then inch by agonizing inch he pushed her bra down till his hands were on skin. She'd been with men before, but she'd never felt passion like this. Charlie feared her legs might give out so, unable to do much of anything else, she tightened her hold on him as he moved his lips away from hers and began to suckle the frantic pulse in her neck.

She moaned as his hand brushed across her nipple and she heard him chuckle. Part of her wanted to whack him for laughing but another just wanted to stand there forever while he lavished her body with attention.

In the end Charlie decided on a third option, to return the sweet torture. So she pulled his shirt out of his waist band, slipped her hands under his shirt and mimicked the same trip he'd taken. She made it up to his shoulders when hushed voices brought her game to an abrupt end. Without warning, Charlie jerked away from Jake's embrace.

At first Jake looked about to protest. He actually took a step toward her, but then he stopped.

“Damn. Who the hell is that?” He kept his voice low as he stuffed the back of his shirt into his pants.

Charlie struggled as she attempted to fix her own clothing. Talk about rotten luck. Whoever was out walking could have gone anywhere on the property and they had to head in this direction.

By the time she finished adjusting her top, she could clearly make out Dylan and Callie’s faces. They walked holding hands and leaning into each other. Both looked happy and very much in love.

What would it be like to be in love with someone like that? The thought leaped into Charlie's head. The concept of love, marriage and happily ever after had never entered her mind, not even when she saw her friends getting married. But tonight the ideas were swirling around in her head.

“I didn't know you two were out here.” Dylan stopped alongside Jake. “Hope we're not interrupting anything.”

Charlie didn't miss the knowing look that Dylan gave his half-brother. Immediately her face flooded with heat. It could be worse. This could be his father, she thought.

“It's a nice night. They probably wanted some fresh air. Just like us. All the guests are making the house stuffy,” Callie offered.

Charlie threw Callie a grateful smile for her efforts. “I didn't think a rehearsal dinner party was such a big deal.” She guessed more than twenty couples filled the mansion and most were not part of the wedding party itself.

“In the real world they’re not; in Warren's world it's another story. Most of them will be leaving soon I think. At least till tomorrow.”

Charlie could hear the strain in Callie's voice. Evidently Dylan heard it as well because he wrapped an arm around her shoulder and pulled her close.

“Forget about them. Tomorrow at this time we'll be on our way to France.”

During their earlier conversation Callie had told her all about their honeymoon plans. They planned to spend three weeks in Europe, starting in France. The entire trip sounded romantic. She'd seen some of Europe but never on vacation, it'd always been while on duty. Someday she wanted to return. Charlie especially wanted to see Ireland and Scotland where many of her ancestors came from.

“Rub it in, why don't you.” Jake tossed back at his brother. “While you two are off sightseeing some of us have real work to do.”

Dylan laughed a deep rich sound that Charlie found contagious and she couldn't stop herself from smiling as well.

“If you're trying to make me feel guilty little brother, it's not going to work.” Dylan stopped laughing and gave his brother a knowing look. “Besides, you'll get your chance.”

Jake shrugged at his brother's comment but remained silent.

Charlie expected Dylan and Callie to say goodnight and continue on, but instead Dylan turned his attention toward her.

“Jake said your family runs a bed and breakfast. How long have they done that?” Dylan asked.

Charlie met his intense gaze and nodded. “For a few years now. Before that my mom rented out rooms mostly to college students from Salem State. My brother convinced her to try the bed and breakfast route. So far it's working well for them.”

“Renting to regular boarders seems easier,” Dylan said, his attention still centered on her.

“Maybe. I never asked. And they don't complain.” Charlie shifted her weight but kept constant eye contact.

“Steadier income potential if you're renting to college students as well. There are always down times for a bed and breakfast regardless of its location.”

Does he always think in terms of dollars and cents, Charlie wondered? “I don't ask them about their finances. But The Victorian Rose seems to be doing well.”

“That's a perfect name for a bed and breakfast,” Callie chimed in. “We'll have to check it out sometime.”

Charlie saw Callie nudge Dylan in the side and she suspected it was some kind of hint to change the subject. Whether it had been or not, Dylan's next question wasn't related to her family or their business.

“I understand you're in the Navy. How do you like it?”

“Originally I just saw it as a way to pay for college. Now, I consider it my way of giving back.”

Although Dylan might just be making polite conversation, she still felt as if he was interrogating her.

“Enough with the questions. Weren't you two going for a walk?” Jake asked.

“Do you think he's trying to tell us something, Dylan?” Callie asked grinning.

Dylan glanced in her direction one last time then turned his attention to his fiancée. “You might be right. See you tomorrow, Charlie. Jake I'll meet you downstairs in about forty minutes.”

Charlie remained silent as they walked back up toward the house glad that Dylan and Callie decided to continue their walk.

“You're lucky to have such a good relationship with your family.” She hoped he didn't hear the twinge of jealousy in her voice. She'd never seen such closeness between family members before. Even prior to her parents' divorce, her family hadn't been this close.

Jake held open one of the side doors leading into an empty hallway. “When they're not driving me nuts, I agree. What about you? You seem to get along well with your mother and brother.” Jake held her hand as he led her down a deserted hall.

Opened myself up for that one. “Not like you. This is the first time I've visited them in almost a year. My mom and brother are tight, but I've been a third wheel since …” Charlie paused. How much did she want to reveal? Her relationship with her family began to change the day her father walked out on them. She didn't share that with many people. “… my parent's divorce.”

“How old were you?”

“The divorce was official a few days after my thirteenth birthday. It came as a complete surprise when they separated the year before. A lot of my friends' parents were divorced but I never thought mine would be.”

He squeezed her hand as an unexpected emotion squeezed her heart.

“Most kids probably think like that. Do you see your father often?”

Did she see him often? She hadn't seen or heard from him since the day he walked out and as far as she knew neither had Sean. She didn't even know if the man was still alive. “He didn't bother to keep in contact,” Charlie said as they stopped in front of her bedroom door. She could hear the bitterness in her voice, but could do nothing about it. Her father's rejection shouldn't bother her, especially after all this time, but it still did.

Releasing her hand, Jake wrapped his arms around her. “His loss,” he whispered inches from her mouth before moving in to kiss her.

The kiss was tender but still sent shivers of excitement to every nerve ending in her body. Soon the excitement from his kiss and touch washed away the bad memories of her childhood.

“Maybe we should go inside,” Charlie suggested as he moved his lips away from hers and settled on her neck. If he continued to tease her like this, she wouldn't be held responsible for her actions.

Jake lifted his head just enough to answer. “I'd like nothing more, but …”

Charlie groaned at the sound of the word but.

“I promised to take Dylan out for drinks tonight. I missed his bachelor party because of the hurricane so this is my chance to make it up to him. We leave in less than an hour so that doesn't leave me much time, and I don't want to be rushed.”

Rather than cool her passion, his words further ignited it. How much effort would it take to change his mind? Sneaking her hands under the hem of his shirt, she decided to see for herself. “Is that so?” She trailed her hands up his back toward his shoulders. “Are you sure I can't change your mind?” she asked her voice low.

She felt his lips curve into a smile against her neck.

“You wouldn't even need to try, but this time I need to go.” He pulled back and dropped a final kiss on her lips. “But I promise to make it up to you tomorrow, Charlie.”

The desire in his eyes matched the desire running rampant through her body, and she knew, if not for the wedding in the morning, he'd come in. Charlie let her hands fall back to her sides. “Go have your drinks then.” She opened the bedroom door and took a step inside. “See you tomorrow.”

After she closed the door she looked around the well-appointed room. What should she do for the next few hours? Although it was late she knew sleep wouldn't be coming anytime soon, thanks to Jake. The guy had some nerve to awaken her passion like that and then retreat.

A well-stocked bookcase stood in the corner of the room. Selecting a book about the history of nineteenth century Newport, Charlie settled outside on the balcony. Hopefully a little reading would get her in the mood for bed.