Your Cheatin’ Hearts By Linn Random

www.triskelionpublishing.com

Published by Triskelion Publishing www.triskelionpublishing.com 15508 W. Bell Rd. #101, PMB #502, Surprise, AZ 85374 U.S.A.

First e-published by Triskelion Publishing First e-publishing April 2005

ISBN 1-933471-02-6 Copyright © Linn Random 2004 All rights reserved.

Cover art by Triskelion Publishing

PUBLISHER’S NOTE: This is a work of fiction. Names, characters places, and incidents are the product of the author’s imagination. Any resemblance to persons living or dead, business establishments, events or locales is entirely coincidental.

PROLOGUE

The warm cup of coffee that Sarah Donavan had been holding crashed onto the table of Clancy’s Drug Emporium. Instantly, the creamy Colombian blend flooded the counter top, spilling over its edge like a miniature Victoria Falls.

Sarah and her companion began pulling the almost invisible sheaths of white napkins out of the dispenser in an ill-fated attempt to stop the flow from reaching their purses, their laps and the floor of the luncheonette.

“Here, let me!” Rachel Cunningham, Clancy’s only waitress, offered with a frown. Glaring down at both women, she deftly began cleaning up the spill taking great care not to spoil her starched pink uniform.

With her clenched hands resting squarely on her broad hips, she glared at Sarah, “I suppose you want another cup?”

“Well,” Sarah said, staring down at her empty cup, “if you don’t mind.”

The soaked towel, in the waitress’s hand, was seeping, oozing, dripping with brown fluid as if it carried blood from a CSI murder scene. Rachel gave Sarah a look of unadulterated contempt before slowly sashaying back behind the lunch counter.

Sarah watched her go knowing full well the story of the spill would be repeated oft times in the next several days to anyone who would listen.

“I don’t know why that woman has a job here when she hates waiting on people.” Sarah said, turning back to her friend of almost fifty years.

Remembering why she had dropped the stupid cup in the first place she leaned across the table and in a hiss, whispered to her companion, “Now, Maggie Colter, tell me you are not serious.”

“Yes, I am and don’t you dare look at me that! I’m the only woman left in all of Western North Carolina without grandchildren!” Maggie wailed utter defiance glittering in her eyes. She knew full well her faint-hearted plea for sympathy would not fool her long time friend.

Rachel Cunningham returned to the table interrupting further comment.

“Your coffee,” Rachel Cunningham said unceremoniously placing a fresh cup on the table. Rachel scowled at Sarah one last time as if daring her to spill the new cup. Sarah offered Rachel a weak smile. With a look of pure contempt, Rachel turned and walked away.

“Maggie Colter,” Sarah said directing her attention back to her friend, “we’ve been best friends since we were in pigtails. I’ve been with you on every crazy adventure you’ve had, but this one takes the cake!”

“Oh hush up!” Maggie said seething with fresh fury. “Everyone I know has grandchildren. And I want one!”

“What about that nice Jenny Fields that Jack has been seeing?” Sarah asked, “What happened with that?”

“Nothing, Jenny was just a friend and she is engaged to some boy from Marshall. Jack was just coaching her son in baseball.”

Sarah looked sympathetically at her friend.

“Everyone has grandchildren,” Maggie said pointedly, “Everyone! The women at the Guild, Sunday School, all our friends, YOU!”

“Jack just hasn’t met the right girl yet,” Sarah offered trying to keep pity out of her voice.

“The right girl! The right girl! That boy of mine is 31 years old! I am tired to waiting! It’s high time I take matters into my own hands. Whether you think this is a fool plan or not I’m going to see this through!”

“Maggie, really, I wish you would rethink this. I have known your son since the day he was born. He’s good-looking man, Maggie, always was. You might lead him to water, but he ain’t going to drink!”

With a glint in her blue eyes, Maggie raised her chin. “I don’t care. I have waited for him long enough to make up his mind. Now it’s up to me.”

Sarah shook her head. “Well do you have anyone in mind?”

Maggie brightened prettily. “As a matter of fact I do. I saw my attorney, you know Emmett Smith, don’t you? Well, just the other day I saw him talking to a pretty girl at the courthouse. She’s just Jack’s type.”

“Outside the courthouse? Heavens to Betsy, Maggie! She could be a murderer, a criminal, for all you know.”

“I’m not going to listen to another word from you Sarah; I thought you of all people would be helpful.” Maggie sniffed as she took a sip of her coffee, “Besides, I know my son, and Jack will find her attractive. She’s smart and she has her own business. My future daughter-in-law is a Private Investigator!”

“Oh dear,” Sarah said shaking her head. “I remember how hurt he was when he found out his college sweetheart was cheating with another fella. Maggie, I wonder if Jack is ever going to trust a girl again no matter how pretty she is.”

“Good grief, Sarah, that was years ago. Now I am going to find out more about her, then I have to come up with a way to get her and Jack together. Once I get them together, I’ll let nature takes its course. And Miss Sarah,” Maggie assured her friend, “whether he likes it or not, this time next year, Jack Colter will be married! And, he will be happy! I’ll have my grandchildren! Sarah, you and all you Grandmothers of this town just watch me. This time next year, I will be holding my first grandchild. Wait and see!”

CHAPTER ONE

“Mrs. Colter,” Shelby MacGregor said trying not to sound impatient, “on the phone you said this was urgent, a matter of life and death.”

“Did I, did I say that?” Maggie Colter stammered almost as if taken by surprise. The older woman leaned back against her the seat at Denny’s Restaurant. She seemed a bit confused and quiet as though she were contemplating her reply.

Shelby remained silent. Meeting a private investigator for the first time made a lot of people nervous. In the three years of heading her own agency, Your Cheatin’ Hearts, she knew she could learn a lot by nervous chatter, gaining valuable insight into her client’s personalities. This was crucial for if their spouse was found cheating, it was imperative she know how her clients would react.

Maggie Colter was different, she had no spouse. She did, however, need her help. Her call came just this morning. It was a matter of life or death she had pleaded. Now Maggie Colter sat hesitant and unresponsive. Moments passed. Shelby sat patiently.

Despite her casual attire, the woman before her was probably one of the well-to-do women in this small, western North Carolina, mountain town. In her fifties, Maggie Colter’s face was just beginning to wrinkle. Her brown eyes were soft and kind.

She nervously took a sip of coffee. Shelby noticed her hands. Though manicured, they looked used. Shelby suspected, Maggie loved to garden. This was a woman who, no doubt, enjoyed living life on her own terms. Sensing a kindred spirit, Shelby smiled and shifted slightly. This was Maggie’s cue to talk but she didn’t take it.

Shelby wondered what had prompted this woman to make her frantic call. She was hiding something. What? Why?

Suddenly Maggie Colter’s eyes widened, her round face lit with delight. “Yes! That’s it! My son is in definite danger, Ms. MacGregor.”

The image of Jack Colter flashed in Shelby’s mind. She had seen him around town. Though she had never been formally introduced, she concluded the ruggedly handsome Jack Colter hardly appeared a man that needed protecting.

“You son is in danger?” Shelby repeated. She heard the doubt in her own voice and she had the nagging suspicion that Maggie Colter was making her story up as she went along.

The waitress returned with their order. She placed a diet coke in front of Shelby, and a large slice of the praline pecan pie in front of Maggie.

“Would you like some more coffee?” the waitress drawled in a soft southern accent.

With her eyes totally focused on the dark, rich slice of praline pie, Maggie didn’t bother to look up as she answered, “Maybe in a minute.”

The waitress smiled and glided away to take an order from a couple a couple of tables over.

“Are you sure you don’t want anything besides that, dear?” Maggie asked lifting up her fork.

Shelby shook her head. Maggie turned her attention back to the pie. With the dexterity and grace of a matador, Maggie removed her napkin from the table and folded it across her lap. Whatever was troubling Maggie Colter seemed momentarily forgotten as she slid the fork into the thick dark pie.

“Mrs. Colter,” Shelby said, “If your son is in danger, perhaps you should be talking to the police?”

“Oh no! I can’t!” she protested. “Jack would be furious. By the way, my friends call me Maggie, please do as well. And, may I call you Shelby? ”

Without giving her a chance to respond, Maggie immediately turned her attention back to the pie.

“Hum,” Maggie cooed, “this is so good. You know, Denny’s always has the best pie. Did I mention my son is not married?”

“Mrs.Colter,” Shelby began, then softened her voice and expression, “Maggie, you said your son is in danger?”

“Tell me more about yourself, my dear.” Maggie mumbled between bites. “Being a private investigator and all must be a very dangerous profession, does your boyfriend mind?”

Shelby shook her head. “There’s no boyfriend, fiancé or husband in my life. No child. Nothing that would distract me from your son’s welfare.”

Maggie stopped eating her pie. She took her fork and with great care laid it across her plate. Her jaw tensed and her eyebrows arched as she asked, “But you do like children, don’t you?”

“Yes, I like children very much, Mrs. Colter,” Shelby assured her noticing the visible look of relief on the older woman’s face.

“Maggie, if you believe your son’s life is in danger, you need to be having this conversation with the police. Not with me. My firm, Your Cheatin’ Hearts specializes in spousal infidelity.”

“Your brochure said you were with law enforcement for a while.”

“I was,” Shelby explained in a voice that was cool and calm, “but I didn’t go through four years of classes for a degree in criminology, and extra specialized training to write parking tickets.”

Shelby continued, “I do all sorts of investigate work, Maggie. I work with large companies, doing background checks on their employees. However, my primary business is devoted to husbands and wives who suspect their partners are cheating.”

“Is there a lot of that going on?” Maggie said with a gasp.

Shelby couldn’t help but smile. Maggie’s innocence was genuine. “Unfortunately, yes.”

“Oh my,” Maggie stammered in amazement. She looked for a moment as if she were ready to order another slice of pie.

“Maggie, perhaps you would like to see my credentials.” Shelby said changing the subject. “You can rely on my discretion. Again, I would like to suggest that you have this discussion with the police.”

“No, dear, they won’t help at all,” Maggie replied her eyes filled with certainty. Several pensive moments passed before Maggie offered Shelby a radiant smile. “Emmett Smith, my attorney, recommended you. Now that I have seen you, I think you are just perfect for what I need.”

Shelby made a mental note to send Emmett a thank you card for his referral. Shelby remained quiet.

Maggie was deep in thought, as if contemplating her next reply. Shelby suspected she was stalling as she placed her fork into the remaining bit of pie. When complete, she turned around to her purse and pulled out an envelope.

“Here.” she said passing an oversized brown envelope to Shelby. “This might help. Just look at this and tell me what you think?”

Shelby accepted the package and let its contents slide across the table. A full four-color photo of Jack Colter spilled out of the envelope. Shelby lifted it.

“The advertising agency that helps us with the catalog likes to use Jack for photos,” Maggie stated beaming with maternal pride.

Shelby studied the photo. It was common knowledge that Jack and Maggie Colter were the owners of the successful mercantile and catalog mail order business in the mountains. Jack, in addition to all his other attributes, was certainly photogenic.

In the layout, Jack managed a relaxed poise for the camera with one long leg rigid on the ground and the other resting on the log. His smile was captivating and his arresting good looks captured her full attention. The Blue Ridge Mountains served as a dramatic backdrop.

He was wearing a tan shirt with matching pants that fit him snug about his narrow waist and hips. The hiking boots were new, but anyone looking could see he was a man well suited for the wilderness.

Leaning against his muscular thigh, his arms, even in this casual pose, looked hard and powerful. From his wide shoulders to broad chest, to his firm abs, he seemed unaware of his male virility.

Shelby thought with his natural good looks and rugged physic, he could easily have a career as a male model.

She found it hard to avoid the steady warm gaze of his electric blue eyes. He was tanned, no, Shelby corrected herself, bronzed, and looked as if he hiked or worked outdoors without a shirt. His lips were not full, but appeared soft, and easily kissable. She blushed, embarrassed to find Maggie smiling at her.

Looking very pleased, Maggie’s eyes were sparkling with sheer delight. “I told you he was nice looking, didn’t I?”

Shelby drew an uneasy breath. Drawn back the photo, Jack seemed to be teasing her now. The blue fire in his eyes, warmed by his smile, made the neatly square jaw softer. His neck was strong and, like the rest of his body, muscular and athletic.

Jack’s soft dark hair was cropped and short around his ears and face. It was a style that demanded little upkeep and suited him well.

His hands looked enormous and strong. Without meaning to, Shelby wondered what it would be like to be touched by those fingers and gathered into those muscular arms. With one more appreciative glance at the photo, she laid the picture aside. She was confident Jack Colter was a man who could take care of himself.

Seeing Maggie beaming at her, she knew she had showed entirely too much interest in the handsome Jack Colter.

“Did I mention Jack is not married? Of course, I did, well no matter. And, Shelby, you know honey; I couldn’t help but notice that picture in your brochure. You are so much prettier in person. Has anyone ever told you that you look a bit like Jaclyn Smith? Much prettier, though I think. Your features are softer, nicer.”

Shelby gave her a half smile. They were not here to discuss her but her son. Quick to return the topic to Jack, Shelby asked, “Maggie, do you suspect your son is being followed?”

Maggie bolted upright a look of pure delight gleaming in her brown eyes. “Yes, that’s it! My son is being followed! Why didn’t I think…well, what I meant to tell you earlier. Yes, I am definitely going to need you to watch my son for several days. A week! Maybe a month or so, maybe longer, however long it takes!”

Shelby sat unmoved. Had this just occurred to her? She was not at all convinced Jack was in serious danger. Again, she sensed that Maggie was hiding something from her.

“All right, then, if you are serious, my fee is $ 225 a day," Shelby said hoping the amount would discourage any tomfoolery. “It covers 24 hour surveillance.”

Maggie didn’t blink. Shelby continued, “My schedule is free at the moment. I do have the time to watch your son. We should know in a matter of days whether your son is being followed or not.”

“Oh no, dear, I’m quite sure I’ll need more time than that,” Maggie protested as she reached in her pocketbook and pulled her checkbook out.

Shelby sat puzzled; perhaps the handsome Jack Colter was in danger after all.

“Okay, Maggie,” she said evenly, “if I do find out someone is following your son, we may need to go to the police. Agreed?”

“Oh yes,” Maggie stammered too quickly, “absolutely! I agree.”

Shelby took a long breath. “First, tell me why do you believe someone is following your son? Is he aware of this? If he’s not, then we need to discuss this with him right away.”

“He mustn’t know!” Maggie said sternly, “If he knows I’m meddling again he’ll be very angry at me.” Maggie leaned across the table and said in a low whisper, “We need to keep this between us.”

Shelby frowned. “Do you have any idea why someone would be following your son? Is Jack into gambling, drugs, any type of criminal or illegal dealings? Anything I should know about?”

“Heavens, no,” Maggie replied in a voice that was clear and exact, “Jack has never been involved in anything like that. I suppose you have to ask that sort of questions? No, no, my Jack is a good boy. Now if you look in the envelope, I brought you information about his schedule. I thought that would be helpful.”

Maggie glanced at her watch before she handed Shelby the check. She then placed a five and two one dollar bills on the table to cover her pie, their drinks, and the tip.

“This check should cover you for a week or so, dear. I just need you to follow my son, and tell me what you think?”

“Mrs. Colter,” Shelby protested, “Maggie, you have given me too much for a few days work. If I conclude my surveillance before the time is up, I’ll return any unused part of the retainer to you. As I said, if your son is being followed we’ll know in a few days.”

Impulsively Maggie leaned over and gave Shelby a tight hug.

“My dearest Shelby, I know all this seems confusing and a bit of a surprise for you, but I assure you, at the end of the day, it will all be well. You’ll see.”

With her last comment, she pulled away from Shelby, gave her a broad smile, turned and walked away.

Watching Maggie leave the restaurant, Shelby sat unable to shake the feeling that there was more to Maggie’s story than she had offered. With two years in law enforcement and three years in her own private detective agency, Shelby knew the woman was hiding something. What, she wondered, but more important, why? Whatever Maggie was keeping from her, she would know in a matter of days. One thing she had learned in life was the truth always comes out. Always.

Watching Maggie Colter walk away, she felt uneasy. In her line of work, too many people claimed to want to know the truth then denied it even when faced with documented facts and photos. There were a dozen reasons why any human being wanted to watch another. In the next several days, Shelby would know why Maggie wanted her son followed. And if someone was indeed following Jack Colter, she would not only find out who, but more important, why.

About to leave the table, she caught a faint glimpse of her reflection in the restaurant’s window. Her long, sable brown hair curled in layers about her face and shoulders. She swept it over her collar thinking if she had the time later she would get it cut. The soft show of violet that had once graced her eyes as a child had gone, replaced by a look, that to her, seemed harder. She didn’t care, or did she, she asked herself, and then brushed off the thought.

Jaclyn Smith, indeed, she thought to herself.

Her soft full lips curled into a smile. At least through it all, she had been true to herself and her promise. She would never love again.

It had been years since she thought of Jarred. Jarred, with his movie star good looks, and his easy smile had won a younger Shelby. How innocent she must have seemed to him, how vulnerable.

Well no more, she thought with a smile, no more and never again!

Built on her broken heart, she now kept other women from being the fool she had been by catching cheaters around her small town of Hendersonville, North Carolina. Business was flourishing.

Unlike her glamorous TV counterparts, Shelby didn’t drive a fancy sports car, or have an enormous staff to assist her. Like most PIs in America, she ran a small one man, correction, one woman shop. She had done quite well for herself in the beautiful mountains of Western North Carolina. In fact, she thought proudly, she had moved out of her house a year and a half ago to open a small store front office close to the courthouse. While the storefront was mostly for show, it was close to several attorneys she worked for. It was these same attorneys who recommended her services to clients either prior to divorce, during or after a divorce. Whether it was for ‘cheating’, hiding assets from a spouse, or investigating a new person in their children’s life, there was always ample need for her services. Shelby liked her little store front office, it gave her respectability in a, sometimes, otherwise disreputable business.

Clients, especially new ones, preferred not to be seen walking in and out of her office. More often than not, she met potential clients at the various restaurants around town. Maggie Colter, who had called her just this morning, was one of them.

Though she had never formally met Maggie Colter she was familiar with her and her son, Jack. They were the owners of Bear Creek Outfitters. Their one time general store had grown from a small town mercantile to a successful store and national catalog offering its customers everything from state of the art camping equipment to fashionable LL Bean style clothing.

Both Maggie and her son, Jack, were known as generous benefactors to the town, especially with children’s groups and church organizations.

Shelby finished her diet coke and pocketed the check into her purse.

Less than five minutes later, she was in her Chevy Tracker headed toward town. On the drive, she began to plot how and when to start monitoring Jack Colter’s movements.

With the packet of information beside her, she drove back toward her office and called Chris Thompson at the Hendersonville Police Department.

The dispatcher patched her through to her single part-time employee and former partner. Chris Thompson moonlighted with her on cases that required twenty-four hour surveillance.

“Shelby!” Chris answered when he answered her call. “How are you doing?”

“Great, can you give me some time over the next three days? Mostly evening work.”

“You bet! Who and where?”

“I’ll call you later. And, you will be surprised as to whom?”

“I doubt that, Shelby.” Chris said with a laugh, “I’ll plan on being available for you this evening.”

Ending the call, she pulled onto Main Street, barely noticing the charming ambiance of small town Americana. It was Wednesday afternoon and, unlike her big city counterparts, most Hendersonville stores closed midday. Still, she saw a few shoppers going door to door.

Bear Creek Outfitters was open and business was brisk with tourists and a few locals.

Slowly driving past the entrance, she noted the vehicles parked in front, but nothing seemed out of place. Taking the full drive down Main Street, she turned left at Second, and circled the entire downtown area. This time, she passed Main Street, and drove down Church Street to a huge parking lot behind Bear Creek Outfitters.

Grabbing a bottle of water from her cooler, Shelby pulled out the packet of information and gave his photo an appreciate glance.

No day dreaming allowed, she told herself. With a wistful sigh, she put the photo to the back of the packet.

She read the itinerary but it gave no clue as to why Jack would be followed. It appeared he worked all the time and seemed to have little if any social life.

Around six, she noticed Jack emerge from the store. The photo was a poor copy of the man. In real life, his shoulders were broader, his hips slim, and he looked far more muscular than the picture had offered. Shelby, who had sworn off men, couldn’t help but admire the way he moved in his tight fitting jeans. At least the young Mr. Colter was a refreshing change from the portly men she was usually assigned to watch. Do your job, she reminded herself, Jack Colter is not for you.

He looked back at the store, waved an the older man goodbye, before he pulled his white Ford Bronco out of the parking lot.

Shelby started the Tracker and pulled out behind him, careful to leave two to three cars between them to avoid suspicion. No one seemed to be following him. When he reached home, he pulled into the driveway parked his SUV and went into the house. She watched as lights went on, following his movements through the house. Nothing seemed out of the ordinary.

*** It had been a long day and surprisingly one that left him pensive and reflective of his life, or as he mused, the lack of one.

There was a Father and Son Fishing Tournament the next weekend and it seemed every father and son in town had made it a point to come in to buy their son’s first fishing pole from Bear Creek Outfitters.

The activity of men sizing up the poles, showing their boys how to cast, and purchasing their son’s first tackle box had gotten to him by the end of the day.

Watching the parade of fathers in and out of the store reminded him all the more than he didn’t have a son, a family, other than his Mother, and he didn’t even have a woman in his life.

Unexpectedly, he thought back to Celeste, his long time high school and college sweetheart. He had been just about ready to pop the question when he learned his all too perfect, all too beautiful Celeste had been two timing him with another man. He had been devastated. The residual left being a deep distrust of women.

But, had he cursed himself when he vowed to never love again.

Well, his Mother had been on his case for several years now to find someone and start a family. The Father and Son day reminded him of what he was missing.

Humm, he thought with a long intake of breath as he pulled into his driveway. His house was big enough, he would liked to see it filled with children, a son or sons to take to a fishing tournament and it would be nice to have someone waiting at home instead of returning to an empty, dark house every night.

But where was he going to find this someone, he questioned himself, turning off the Bronco’s engine. Maybe he would attend the Chamber of Commerce Meeting next month or even date one of the women his Mother had suggested. After all the girl of his dreams wouldn’t just fall in front of him, would she?

***

Shelby couldn’t help admiring Jack Colter’s home. It was one of the grand old stately homes built by South Carolinians who came to Hendersonville at the turn of the century to escape the heat of the lowlands.

Beautiful green ferns graced the wraparound porch. The large white house gave the appearance of being recently painted. Only the blue shutters and gray rooftop accented the home. The yard, except for a few azaleas, was manicured, but hardly as landscaped as the almost identical home next door. Both were two stories. Many of these magnificent homes had been converted to quaint Bed and Breakfasts.

Beautiful homes, Shelby thought as she parked her Tracker at an empty lot across the street. She grabbed a John Grisham novel she had been reading and settled back for what she hoped would be a quiet night.

As the hours passed, she made note of the vehicles moving about the neighborhood.

She called Chris Thompson close to the end of his shift and gave him the address where she needed him that night.

“You’ve to be kidding,” he said when he pulled up behind her around ten P.M. “Jack Colter is a boy scout. Who wants you to keep tabs on him?”

“His Mother. She suspects someone is following him. Just keep your eyes open, okay?”

“Will do,” Chris said with a sigh.

“See you in the morning,” Shelby promised.

A little over seven hours later, she stood banging at Chris’s window.

“Wake up,” Shelby said with a laugh, “it’s time to go home and get some sleep. Anything happen last night?”

“Pretty quiet,” Chris said with a yawn. “Man, I must have dozed off. Lights went out by eleven. I did notice an old ford truck about two. Seemed out of place for this neighborhood. It made two passes before it left. I wrote down the license plate just in case. When I run the tags later today, I’ll get back to you.”

“Thanks,” Shelby said, “now you run on home and get some shut eye.”

After Chris left, Shelby glanced at her watch. Dressed in running gear she got out of her car and stretched. The store didn’t open until nine. Jack, according to his Mother, never left the house before eight.

The day was still quiet. Crickets chirped and birds sang softly as if not to break the still of the cool Carolina morning. Lawns and trees were thickly laid with the honeyed mist of a new dawn. The sweet fragrance of flowers surrounded with her like a loving friend, warm, comforting, and always there.

Realizing this was the only time she would probably have all day for exercise, she wasted no time in stretching before she began her daily run.

Not daring to roam far, she decided to take a fast run to the end of the long street, and returned. On the second pass, she saw a light go on Jack’s house. He was right on time. It was nearly seven-thirty. She decided to take one more turn through the neighborhood.

Kids were beginning to emerge from the houses, moving slowly down to the end of the street toward a bus stop. One boy pulled a skateboard from his arm and dropped it to the ground before gliding past her to a neighbor’s house on the other side of Jack’s home.

Checking her watch, she finished the last stretch to the end of the street and decided to run back.

As she neared Jack’s house she noticed his white Ford Bronco driving slowly down the drive. She cursed softly under her breath, and pulled the baseball cap lower to cover her face. She kept her pace steady, her head down. As soon as she reached her Tracker, she would be able to follow him easily.

The Bronco stopped at the end of the driveway. It pulled forward as Shelby ran along side a neighbor’s hedge lined sidewalk.

Too late she heard the scraping sounds of a skateboard. The boy on the skateboard burst onto the sidewalk directly in front of her.

As she jumped to avoid him, her foot landed off center on the curb. She was helpless but to fall forward directly into the path of the Ford Bronco. Her small frame twisted just before her body slammed against the pavement. Her shoulders and head took the brunt of the fall. She heard the screech of the brakes.

No, no, no, Shelby cried inside as she heard the Bronco’s door open. She couldn’t have fallen right in front of Jack Colter! She slowly opened her eyes to see his handsome face just inches from her. She closed her eyes. No, this couldn’t be happening!

“Is she dead?” the skateboarder asked managing to sound blameless for his part in the accident.

“She’s not dead,” Jack said impatiently to the teen, then to Shelby, “Miss, are you all right?”

“Yes, just a bump on my head,” Shelby was all she could manage as she tried to rise. A sharp pain ran up the back of her neck. She fell back against the pavement.

“Should I call an ambulance?” a woman’s voice rang out. The woman sounded strangely familiar. In fact, it sounded like Maggie Colter.

“No, we can get her to the Doctor’s office quicker,” Jack said to the woman. Speaking back to her, she felt the warmth of his breath upon her cheek. “You hit your head pretty hard. Nothing looks broken. Can you stand up?”

“I think so,” Shelby said struggling to rise. For a second time, she fell back. Not wanting to, she slowly opened her eyes and focused on the deepest pair of blue eyes she had ever seen. God, he is handsome she thought with a smile. Her vision blurred.

As she faded to black, she heard the skateboarder proclaim, “Yep. You killed her Mister. She’s dead.”

CHAPTER TWO

Shelby heard the murmur of voices but could not she could discern what was being said. As the words became clearer, the voices became more recognizable. A woman’s voice sounded very familiar. It sounded like Maggie Colter.

Before she could speculate as to how or why Maggie would be there, she heard two male voices. The first voice was older, softer and more reserved with an almost gentle quality. The second voice sounded stronger and younger. Though she didn’t recognize it there was a velvet quality about the second voice that touched her soul. A young female addressed one of the men as Doctor.

Shelby wondered how long she could lay there with her eyes shut.

Slowly she opened her eyes and looked around. She was lying on a paper sheathe atop a hard examination table. Across from her she saw jars of cotton balls, tongue depressors, glass jars filled with swabs; all shared a counter top with several stainless steel containers. The walls were ivory. A drab nondescript floral picture barely broke the sterile environment. She was in a doctor’s office. And, she thought, to her great misfortune, she was not dead.

Panning the room, she focused on four distinct figures. An older man dressed in a white lab coat, a young nurse and Maggie Colter wearing her housecoat.

Jack Colter stood behind the trio, his muscular arms crossed and his lips taunt with grave concern. His presence dominated the room. As Shelby’s eyes met his, his soft lips curled into a sensual smile. The warmth of his eyes swept over her, touching her in places she did not know existed. His blue eyes were looked sharper against the dark navy shirt he was wearing. Even leaning against the wall, his casual stance was powerful in tight fitting jeans.

Knowing her cover was blown, she groaned. I’ll give Maggie her money back, she thought as she tried to rise.

“I’m Doctor Edwards,” the man in the lab coat said. “You’ve quite a bump on the head, nothing serious. How are you feeling?”

Shelby reached her hand back to her head and wrenched as she touched the swelling.

The doctor looked down at the chart and then back to her. “I don’t think there is anything to worry about but I’d like to take some x-rays before you leave.”

“I’m Jack Colter,” Jack introduced himself, “you fell in front of my car. I brought you to the Doctor’s office. We, that is, my Mother and I live just around the corner. It was faster to drive you here than wait for paramedics.”

Shelby turned her attention to Maggie.

“This is my Mother," Jack said noticing her eyes focusing on Maggie.

“No introductions necessary, Jack,” Maggie announced to the surprise of everyone present. “I

know this young lady.” Shelby was relieved. With the truth out, she would be able to move forward with her investigation after all. “We met several days ago,” Maggie said cheerfully. The fire in her eyes was radiant with

insanity. “My new friend is the famous romance novelist, Silver Lake!”

“What?” Shelby stammered, but no one seemed to notice.

“Oh my gosh!” the nurse cried, “Silver Lake! I’ve read all your books! I just finished the last in the Founding of the Caribbean Series when Cassandra‘s true love, Jamie McPherson was killed by the Pirate Prince. And then, oh my goodness, she was kidnapped by the Arab Sheik and was taken to his palace! Oh! Oh! Can I have your autograph?”

“You …don’t…that is. . . I’m not,” Shelby said but Maggie interrupted before she could finish.

“Don’t say another word, Silver,” Maggie admonish her. Maggie looked to Jack, the Doctor and nurse. “Silver and I met several days ago. She’s researching her new book here and we’ve become fast friends. Isn’t that exciting?”

Jack’s grin broadened to a radiant smile. He took a deep breath, grateful she was going to be all right!

Without meaning to he found himself captivated by her distinctly feminine outline. Her long, brown hair was luxurious and was partially hidden beneath an Atlanta Braves baseball cap. Loose tendrils escaped the cap and caressed her delicately shaped cheekbones. Her eyes were the color of deep, cool liquid pools of Mountain Lake and he found them magnetic. It was impossible not to return her disarming smile.

Her appeal had piqued his interest at the moment of their introduction and though he tried not to look, he couldn’t help but notice the soft curves of her body. Her hips tapered into the sculptured thighs and calves of an athlete.

He shouldn’t be assessing the beautiful woman on the examining room table, especially since he’d almost run her over.

He smiled at her. “A romance novelist, I’m impressed.”

“No,” Shelby struggled to be heard, “I’m…”

“Going to stay with me for the next few days,” Maggie finished for her. “Not another word! I insist!”

“Do you have family here, Ms. Lake?” the Doctor asked.

“No, no family here,” Shelby answered. Her mind seemed to be on a delayed response time. “But I need….”

“Stay with my Mother, she’s got to be your number one fan. Or, you could stay with me.” Jack offered with a mischievous grin. “It’s one of those Native American things. If you save someone’s life, they have to stay with you until they recover. I have a big house and you’d be welcome.”

He is flirting with me, Shelby thought in a daze. I’m lying on my death bed and he’s flirting with me! Unexpectedly she felt her cheeks flush with warmth.

“Silver Lake, oh my gosh, Silver Lake. Will you autograph your book for me?” the nurse begged. She left the room and returned one moment later with a large and very well read paperback.

“Do sign it,” Margaret coached her, “Remember just write, Silver Jamison Lake.”

Without understanding why, Shelby awkwardly accepted the paperback novel. She held the book, dumbfounded, not quite sure how to proceed. Still too numb to protest, she simply took the pen the nurse offered her. Mechanically she opened the flap.

Maggie coached her. “Just write Silver Jamison Lake.”

Shelby took the pen wondering if she were breaking any laws by impersonating a romance novelist.

“Oh my god, oh my god, oh my god.” the nurse squealed as she wrote out that ridiculous name.

Who gave their child such a preposterous name, she thought, returning the book and the pen back to the nurse.

“Do you know Fabio? Oh my god, he is so handsome!”

Clearly annoyed, the doctor turned to his assistant and said, “Now that’s quite enough. Everyone out. I want to finish examining Ms. Lake. Jack, Maggie, do you mind waiting outside for a few minutes?”

“Not at all, “Jack said as he ushered his Mother out of the room.

Without another word, Jack and Maggie left the room. Didn’t anyone notice Maggie Colter’s behavior was odd, Shelby wondered. But then, at the moment, Maggie was the only one besides herself who knew she wasn’t Silver Jamison Lake.

“Now young lady, I want to see you wiggle your fingers and toes” Twenty minutes later, she emerged from the office holding a prescription in her hand. “Silver, it’s been decided,” Maggie greeted her, “I insist that you come home with me. Jack is

going to get your prescription filled and bring it to my house. Now, not another word, I insist!” “I don’t mind driving her home,” Jack offered. “No, dear, run along, Jack,” Maggie insisted. “Silver and I will be going straight home. We

need to chat. Do some girl talk. It wouldn’t interest you a bit.” This had gone too far, Shelby thought, ready to voice the truth. As if sensing Shelby was about to confess, Maggie’s eyes widened. She wrapped her arm about

Shelby’s shoulder. “Silver dear, we can send for your things at the Holiday Inn later. Jack, Silver’s head must be throbbing, do hurry back. Doctor Edwards, just put her charges on my bill.” The Doctor nodded and to Shelby said, “I’d like to check on you in a few days. Call my nurse for a time.”

Jack took the prescription. “I’ll be back as soon as I can. You’ll be safe with my Mother.” Shelby smiled. She wasn’t so sure. However, she kept her silence until she and Maggie were alone in Maggie’s maroon Saturn. “He likes you” Maggie squealed. “I knew he would!” Exasperated, Shelby cried, “Mrs. Colter!” “Now I thought we agreed you were going to call me by my first name?” Maggie said unruffled

by Shelby’s sharp glare. “I can see you’re angry with me but I had to come up with a story for you.” “You could have just told the truth!” “Certainly not!” Maggie argued. “Besides, Jack likes you.” “Which is the point, Maggie, he trusts me to be who I am. You, we, I should tell your son the

truth the minute he comes home.” “Oh no!” Maggie said, “Jack mustn’t know I have hired you to follow him. By the way, noticed anyone following him? Anything to report? Well, besides almost getting killed outside his house.”

Shelby’s head began to pound and she suspected Maggie had changed the subject on purpose. Regardless, she gave Maggie the truth, “Yes. While I haven’t seen any direct evidence, a police officer who works for me during his off duty time, noticed a truck passing by your son’s house late last night. We’re running the tags today.”

Maggie pulled the Saturn into the driveway just beyond Jack Colter’s home. Shelby noticed her Tracker was still parked undisturbed across the street.

“You didn’t tell me you lived next door to Jack.”

“Didn’t I?” Maggie replied innocently. Shelby almost laughed and wondered what else she had neglected to mention. “You see when the house came up on the market a couple of years ago, I brought it for Jack. He was living in an apartment across town. Let me tell you, I had a terrible time convincing him to move in. I am growing older. And of course, one day Jack will want to get married. I will be close to my grandchildren.”

Shelby shook her head. How anyone could be so endearing and maddening at almost the same time was beyond her. Still, in her own fashion, her intent was to protect her only son. Shelby had to respect Maggie for that.

“Shelby, now there’s no harm in pretending to be someone you are not for a few days. You call that sort of thing undercover, right? And of course, by staying with me, you can see Jack all the time.”

“Maggie, I need to follow your son,” Shelby protested, “not be a part of his life.”

“This will give you the perfect opportunity,” she cooed. “It will only be for a few days, you said

so yourself. Oh, I just remembered, I should have told Jack to pick up my heart medicine while he was at the pharmacy.” “You need heart medicine?” Shelby asked as they got out of the Saturn and headed to the back door. “Don’t look alarmed. Doc Edwards says as long as I take my medicine, I’d be just fine.” Unlocking the door, Maggie stepped back and allowed Shelby to enter before her. As she

passed, Maggie asked, “Did you notice the way Jack looked at you? I just know you are the right girl…”

“The right girl?” Shelby repeated.

“I meant, that is the ah, right detective for this assignment dear. Follow me, I know you want to

lie down.” Shelby had little to do but to follow Maggie through her home. Her house, like Jack’s, must have been built in the late 20s. Her kitchen had been thoroughly modernized.

The gray kitchen tile was easy to walk across and Shelby guessed there was extra padding beneath it. Sparkling pots hung above the Jenair stove in an island in the center of the room. The conventional oven, microwave, refrigerator and dishwasher were all bright white enamel.

The breakfast nook, just off the kitchen, over looked a spectacular English garden.

“This way,” Maggie said, guiding Shelby through the house.

From the kitchen, she passed through the dining room with its magnificent antique oak table, matching serving board and china cabinet in the far corner of the room.

A half wall partition separated it from the living room, which was filled with heavy sofas and chairs, bookcases and knickknacks and memories of a family who had gathered in this room for celebrations and gatherings.

With her head beginning to pound, Shelby would have liked to enjoy the house but a large heavy grandfather clock chimed the hour as she passed. Bordered by heavy brass decorative weights, the pendulum swung relentlessly behind the bright crystal clear door. Shelby grabbed her head to ward off the assault of chimes which filled the house with their ring.

She hurried up the long flight of stairs after Maggie, promising herself a closer study of the array of family photos against the stair wall.

On the second floor, Maggie passed several closed doors to stop before one.

“This will be your room, while you are staying here, dear,” she said softly as she opened the door. Maggie crossed the room and pulled down the covers on the four poster bed. She moved quickly to the window and opened it allowing in the fresh morning breeze and sweet scents of her flower garden.

The bed with a soft lavender canopy was inviting. The matching curtains and two high back chairs sat before a fireplace. The wallpaper was speckled with sweet little lilac flowers on short emerald stems.

The same pattern was repeated on the downy comforter. A sheer white material graced the canopy. Both the head board and foot board were fashioned into a lovely fan design. A breathlessly sheer white linen sash draped across the canopy’s top almost falling on the bed’s two oversized pillows.

“Your home is lovely, Maggie. This room is beautiful. Thank you.”

“My darling,” Maggie said in a quiet voice, as she folded the covers back, “you lie down. I’ll bring you a cup of tea later. You banged your head pretty bad.”

“I should go.” Shelby protested but her head was throbbing.

“Nonsense, Jack should be back from Clancy’s with your prescription any minute. I’ll bring it

right up to you. Shelby, he will be suspicious if he doesn’t find you here. Now you have nothing to do but rest.” Longing for a shower and her own bed just across town, it was simply easier to lie down in this strange room than argue further with Maggie. Shelby pulled off her running shoes and heard them drop to the floor. She was asleep before her head hit the pillow.

Glancing at her watch, close to noon when she woke, still groggy, she couldn’t believe she had slept so long. She decided a couple of aspirins would soothe her aching body.

“Good, you’re up,” Maggie said as Shelby entered the kitchen fifteen minutes later. “I’ve made you some lunch, nothing fancy, just some good old fashion stew. I want you to eat something nourishing.”

The bright little breakfast nook was already set with plates, bowls and a platter filled with homemade biscuits. The heavy scent of beef and carrots was irresistible. Shelby remembered she hadn’t eaten since last night and she was ravenous. A small white bag with her prescription was on the table next to a glass of apple juice. She frowned as she read Silver Jamison Lake.

Maggie served up the stew from a large crock pot and set it in front of her.

“By the way, who is this Silver Lake anyway?” Shelby asked gratefully taking two of the tablets.

"She's a very famous romance novelist. I’m a huge fan.”

“If she is so well known, won’t people know that I am not her?”

“That’s just it; no one has seen her face, dear. She prefers to live life in anonymity. One of those writer things, I suppose,” Maggie said as the doorbell rang. “Actually, it was a family friend who insisted I read one of her books. I’ve been hooked very since. Now, eat up, I will get the door.”

“Oh this is wonderful, wonderful,” Maggie squealed, returning to the room with a beautiful flower arrangement. Lifting the elegant white wicker basket in the air to show Shelby, it was filled with a spring bouquet of pink alstroemeria, lavender larkspur, white daises and a spray of pink rose buds.

Maggie helped herself to the card. “It’s from Jack; he says he hopes you are feeling better. Oh, I knew he would like you the moment he saw you!”

“Maggie, about Jack…”

“Shelby, I know what you are going to say, but you only have to be Silver Lake for a few days.”

“Maggie, please,” Shelby pleaded. “While I have a relatively quiet social life and most of my work is out of the limelight, there are still a lot of people who know me. I would hate for Jack to find out who I am without a proper introduction.”

“Yes, I would hate for that to happen too,” Maggie said with quiet emphasis. Finishing her stew, she took the empty bowl to the kitchen sink. “Thank you very much for your hospitality. But, I have to earn my keep. Can I help you with this?”

“Why don’t you try to rest more, dear?” Maggie protested, “Jack will be at the store the rest of the day.” “No, I really need to get back to work. I have to tell you I feel a bit guilty about all this. If you want a refund, I’ll be happy to oblige you.” Maggie shook her head. “Nonsense. No harm done. My dear, you really should rest. You

aren’t leaving, are you?”

“I need to get back on track, Maggie, and I need to change these clothes.”

“But you’ll be back later, right?” Maggie asked in a near whimper, “And you will stay the night here?”

“For tonight,” Shelby reluctantly agreed. “Tomorrow is another day. We’ll see. No promises beyond this evening, Maggie.”

Before going home, Shelby drove back into downtown. She had to know that Jack was at the store. She was relieved to find his Bronco parked in front of the store.

She smiled, remembering the flowers he had sent that morning. For different reasons, she was finding the son almost as incorrigible as the Mother. Perhaps, he is just worried about her claiming damages against him.

Stopping at the red light just below Bear Creek Outfitters, she turned her head to notice Jack Colter stepping out of the bookstore. He paused no more than five feet from the bookstore before. To her horror, she watched him reach deep into the bag and pull out what appeared to be an oversized romance novel.

Silver Lake was embossed in large letters across the front of the book.

Shelby gasped. Her hands clammy, her mouth dry, she watched mesmerized by the scene. Jack began flipping through the pages only to pause midway through the book. His dark brow wrinkled as if he found something disturbing then as he eagerly turned to the next page, a look of pleasure crossed his face. Jack Colter’s broad grin widened as he continued to read. Shelby knew this wasn’t good.

On the sidewalk, Jack smiled. He was stunned and had trouble reconciling the wholesome Silver Lake with the sensuous woman who hid her passion neatly between the lines of a romance novel. Were they one in the same?

He read on, unable to take his eyes away from the words. Was this woman capable of such exploding passion? If her intent was to captivate a reader, she had certainly gotten his attention.

Closing the book, he barely noticed a truck blocking his way across the busy street. He was too distracted by the beautiful Ms. Lake to care.

Shelby had watched him tuck the book back into the plastic bag. What had he read that left him with that silly lopsided grin on his face?

Shelby slid down into the seat. Grateful that a delivery truck pulled up behind her just moments before Jack Colter had crossed the street. So absorbed in his own thoughts, he hadn’t even noticed she was there.

Her senses hit defcon five. She’d better get her hands on that Silver Lake book!

The light turned green. Spying an empty parking space three cars up, Shelby maneuvered the Tracker in-between two vehicles. With a quick glance up the street, Jack was out of sight, presumably to Bear Creek Outfitters.

She reached around in the back seat and slipped the baseball cap on her head. Tucking her brown hair under the cap, she pulled it low over her face. Satisfied, she left the Tracker and scooted along the store front half expecting Jack to jump out at her before she reached the book store.

“Hey Shelby,” the sales clerk greeted her. ”What are you in the mood for? The John Grisham book you were asking about is here.”

“Great,” Shelby said weakly, “but actually I think I am in the mood for a good romance. What do you recommend, Carol?”

“Huh?” Carol asked, then popped her gum in her mouth. “You want a romance? Well, okay, this way.”

Shelby ignored the distant look that crossed Carol’s face. A frequent shopper, this was the first time she had ever asked for a romance. Carol waved her to follow and padded her way to the back of the store to the romance section.

Scanning for author’s names, the hollow pit in Shelby’s stomach became an ache.

“If you like hot steamy romances, you might want to read something by Silver Lake. We can’t keep her books in stock,” Carol said passing her a thick, glossy romance. “This is her latest, Love’s Passionate Dawn Reborn. It’s been selling like hot cakes.”

Shelby looked at the cover. The knot in her stomach grew. Her mouth went dry. She wasn’t sure she could swallow as she read, in gold embossed print, Silver Jamison Lake. The name dominated the book’s cover. Shelby swallowed hard. It was her name, well, the writer’s name; she corrected herself again, and thought, well, the one she was impersonating. Holding Silver Lake’s book everything seemed too real. She was certain this was the book Jack Colter had been reading.

Directly below the name, a half-clad buxom blonde stood back to back with a large bare-chest Scottish highlander. Both were wheedling swords. The blonde’s sword was slightly smaller, more feminine looking. The heroine’s dress was torn at just the right angle to expose a long slender leg.

It was locked against the muscular thigh of the hero. Her long blonde hair was streaming as if wind swept. Interesting, she thought, nothing else was affected by the wind. Considering the portions shown on the man this was probably a good thing.

Shelby surmised by the sizable medallion on his kilt that he was some sort of Scottish Lord. Behind them, smoke was billowing high into a dark sky. Presumably their castle under attack and the couple was obviously ready for action. If Jack Colter was reading this, she’d best prepare for a little action of her own.

Her eyes widened as they followed Carol’s direction to a treasure trove of Silver Jamison Lake’s novels. The saucy titles alone made her knees weak.

Carol nonchalantly smacked the gum in her mouth and pointed to a second display shelf. “More over there. Pretty hot stuff.”

“I’ll take this one,” Shelby said hoping she didn’t sound as desperate to Carol as she did to herself.

With her purchase in hand she hurried back to the Tracker. She began flipping through the pages glancing for a word of phrase that would catch her eye. She stopped midway through the torrid romance and read,

“You are mine Heather, your heart, your soul! Thor screamed crossing the room.

Grabbing her small frame, he pulled her to him. Without permission, his large hands began to caress her full breasts. His rough fingers slid sensually to her silky thighs before cupping her soft bottom.

”I hate you Thor!” Heather screamed. She began pounding her small fists against his chest. In rage, she screamed, “I’m Richard’s wife!”

Shelby groaned slamming the book shut.

“This is definitely not good,” she said for no one to hear. She threw the book across the seat and sighed. This would be hilarious if it were happening to someone else.

The passenger door opened, startling her. Chris Thompson jumped into the vehicle. With a knee jerk reaction, Shelby reached for her gun, remembering too late she didn’t have it on.

“Scared you?” Chris said with a laugh.

Shelby lightly punched him in the arm. “Not funny, Thompson. I’ll tell your wife!”

“I know,“ Chris said sheepishly, “my wife doesn’t think I am funny either.”

“What’s up?” she asked. She noticed Chris had inadvertently knocked the book off the seat to the floor of the Chevy. She had no idea why she felt the need to hide the novel. Nervously , she brushed a strand of hair from her face. She licked her lips knowing perfectly well, she was acting guilty. Good grief, she thought, possession of a romance novel was hardly a crime. But, she reminded herself, she had yet to read the whole book.

“Remember the pick up truck I was telling you about?” Chris asked, watching a couple of kids playing tag down the busy street.

“Yes, the brown truck you saw last night.”

“Turns out the license plates are stolen. They belong to a Lincoln Continental which is missing too. I’ve already put an APB out for it. So far, it’s nowhere to be found.”

Shelby forgot the romance novel and the racy plot. Perhaps someone was following Jack Colter after all.

“I’ll keep an eye out for the truck. By the way are you available for tonight? And don’t ask me how, I don’t have time to explain, but I’ll be staying the night with Maggie Colter.”

Chris, who never seemed surprised by her revelations or requests, frowned. “Shelby, is there something I need to know and be aware of?”

Shelby shook her head, “Right now, Chris. I’m not sure. Maggie thinks someone is following her son. I don’t know who or why. I don’t think she does either. I also have the feeling that something is going on that she is not telling me about.”

Chris grunted. “Well, I need to get back to work.”

“Thanks Chris. Later.”

“You bet,” he said leaving the Tracker. “See you tonight.”

Shelby sat up in her seat and adjusted the rear view mirror. Crime of any sort in sleepy little Hendersonville was rare. She felt uneasy.

Leaving the downtown area, she decided to make a quick trip home to shower and pick up a few things for an overnight stay at Maggie’s. Jack would be safe enough until her return.

She drove across town to her home. Set quietly atop a mountain, her home was a sanctuary far away from all the cheating hearts. At night she had a spectator view of Hendersonville. She had come to always appreciate the quietness of her mountain.

At home, she listened to several messages on her answering machine. Emmett Smith had called asking if she had heard from Maggie Colter. A corporate client called requesting she do a couple of background checks on prospective employees. The last message was from a man who suspected his young wife was cheating on him.

Some things never change, she thought entering the shower. She washed off the street grime and shampooed her hair.

As the water cascaded down her body, her mind began to drift back to Jack. His face, his eyes were inescapable. What would it feel like to have his strong hands caress her back and move sensually down her firm body? The water danced about her face like fingertips. Moisture gathered on her lips and slid exquisitely across her mouth.

Would his lips be as sweet, she wondered, would his touch be as soft?

In the cool darkness of her shower, she remembered his dark blue eyes gazing at her. Would those tranquil pools of blue turn black with fury when he found out everything about her was a lie?

She was uncomfortable with Maggie’s outrageous story no matter how inventive it seemed at the time but there was little she could do about it. Maggie was, after all, her client. Jack Colter, she reminded herself, was not part of her life. In a week or two he would be gone.

Dreaming of him were stolen moments that could never be. She was not ready to fall in love again. She would never be ready to fall in love, ever.

Drying off, she tried to leave thoughts of Jack Colter alone but they trailed after her like a soft fragrance, intoxicating and filling her raw senses with a longing she hadn’t felt in years.

Applying her makeup, she looked at the woman in the mirror and frowned.

“You’re a fool, Shelby MacGregor,” she told the reflection. With a fresh vow, she added, “I’ll make quick work of this. This time next week, I won’t even remember his face.”

She packed a few things, and drove back to Bear Creek Outfitters. Without understanding why, she was relieved to find his Ford Bronco still occupying the same parking space. A quick glance about revealed no mysterious brown truck.

Using her cell phone, she called her corporate client and told him she would be available for the background checks he needed. She left a message with Emmett Smith’s secretary thanking him for the referral to Maggie Colter. She then called the husband who thought his young wife was cheating only to find out he had changed his mind. He wouldn’t need her services after all, he apologized.

Shelby thanked him but could tell by the sound of his voice, he would be calling her again.

Denial she thought was one of the strongest of all human traits. Why, she wondered, do humans as a species cling so to love and its promise of fidelity? If we didn’t, I’d be out of a job. Still, a small voice inside her mocked, you mean like you denying that you are attracted to Jack Colter.

Shelby bit her lip and stared out the window. She hadn’t been attracted to a man in years. For a second time, she warned her heart, Jack Colter is not for you.

With little to do but wait for Jack to leave, for distraction she picked up, Love’s Passionate Dawn Reborn. In the back of the book, she found Silver Lake’s brief biography.

Silver Lake had written over 22 romance novels. She lived alone with her cats and was an accomplished pilot. Her favorite place to develop story lines was while flying her small plane.

She was also known for her Louisiana cooking. She had written two cook books. The first was titled Silver Lake’s Louisiana Kitchen. The second book was titled The Raging Cajun.

Shelby smiled, she could barely boil water.

She was glad that she didn’t have to live up to Silver Lake’s long list of talents and accomplishments.

“Good grief,” Shelby said aloud. Silver Lake lived in obscurity with her cats and her plane. There was certainly little enough for Jack or anyone else to find out about the real Silver Lake.

Shelby shook her head and smiled. On short notice, Maggie couldn’t have chosen a better identify. Now it was her turn to watch out for brown ford trucks.

Jack left Bear Creek Outfitters exactly at six. He made only one stop on his way home. He hurried into a small flower shop and emerged minutes later with a dozen yellow roses.

Watching him, she felt her heart sink. His girlfriend would certainly appreciate them, while she sat there sick with unexpected envy. Maybe that was his secret.

Maybe he was seeing a married woman and didn’t want his mother to know. Maybe the man following him was the woman’s husband or yikes, another private eye. Wouldn’t that be funny? She wished she wasn’t so dammed suspicious of everyone but it was her job.

Jack, however, had no secret rendezvous. He drove directly to his house. Shelby realized the flowers were for her. This pleased her and yet she hated that it did. Things would have been so much easier for her, if Jack had been having an affair with a married woman.

Why did the one man she was attracted to in years have to be good looking and single?

Shelby took Maggie’s drive a little faster than she should have. She left her overnight bag and clothes in hand she ran to the house.

“Jack just came home,” Maggie said, holding the screen door open. She sounded more like a coconspirator than client. “Quick, hurry in dear!”

“Maggie, I’m not comfortable with all this deceit,” Shelby said coming into the kitchen. “I see no reason why we don’t just tell Jack the truth.”

“I don’t think that is a good idea,” Maggie stammered nervously. “By the way, since you were following him this afternoon. Have you made any discoveries?”

“Two and I’m not happy with either one,” Shelby replied, “First, there may indeed be someone following Jack. There is no cause for alarm. A truck has been seen in the neighborhood. We don’t know if the truck was simply passing through or if it had another reason for being here. However, I think there is a bigger problem. Jack brought several Silver Lake romance novels this afternoon. Maggie, we can’t let this ruse go on!”

“He did? Oh my! He must be interested in you,” Maggie said sounding very pleased. “Jack hasn’t bought a book in years!”

“Well, he did this afternoon. That’s why I think he needs to know the truth. He needs to be aware of this, Maggie. He may need to protect himself.”

“Well let’s just keep this our little secret for now;” Maggie purred in a whisper, “I think he will be okay for a day or so. No sense in raising any alarm, that’s my motto.”

“How are you feeling, Silver?” Jack asked at that moment rushing into the kitchen. Sheepishly, he handed her the dozen yellow roses.

“Jack,” Shelby said awkwardly, “I don’t know what to say. Thank you. They are lovely.”

“Not half as lovely as you,” Jack said with a smile. “You look much better than this morning.”

Well, she thought, considering she was laying sprawled across the pavement, fighting consciousness, she certainly hoped so. Without a clever response to offer him, she looked down. Did I just bat my eyes at him, she thought angrily.

“Here, I’ll take them,” Maggie offered. “I have just the perfect vase for roses.”

“Thank you,” Shelby faltered in what sounded like a girlie voice. What the heck is wrong with me, she chided herself but to Jack she smiled and said, “Thank you for the flowers.”

“How’s your head?”

“Actually, except for a major headache this morning, I haven’t had any problems the rest of the day.”

Jack lifted her hand to his lips. Surprised, she felt fire race from his fingertips up her arms before warming her heart. He was standing so close she could taste his breath. His eyes never left her. He seemed unaware of his effect on her. In a sensual velvet voice he said in a near whisper, “I’m genuinely glad of that.”

“Dinner is almost ready,” Maggie said visibly delighted with the turn of events.

Maybe it was the wild glint in Maggie’s eye or the peculiar curve of her smile. Perhaps it was the way Maggie tilted her head shyly or the mischievous good girl gone bad look but Shelby sensed something horrible was about to happen. She didn’t have to wait long to find out.

“Jack, as you may or may not know our Silver is an accomplished gourmet cook.”

Oh no, no, Shelby protested trying to signal Maggie to stop. Maggie continued on as if hunted by the hounds of hell.

“In spite of her injury, Silver insisted on getting up and making us a fabulous dinner. Pun intended, she literally wrote the book. Two of them as a matter of fact on Louisiana-Cajun Cuisine. We’re being treated to New Orleans Black Muffins, served with Chicken and Seafood Jambalaya, candied sweet potatoes and fresh sautéed vegetables. Jack, you must you stay for dinner?”

Shelby turned sharply toward Maggie. She should have liked at that moment to inform her client that she could barely scramble eggs!

“To top it off,” Maggie continued brightly, “she baked the most delicious apple sweet dough pie I’ve ever seen.”

“An apple pie!” Shelby repeated but no one seemed to notice the rise in her voice. “Now I baked an apple pie!”

Jack could do little more than stare at this utterly amazing woman!

Suddenly feeling very lucky she had fallen in front of his Bronco, he smiled. She must have been hurt from the morning’s fall, yet, she had somehow managed to get up out of bed and prepare a magnificent meal. He was flattered. Taking her small hand into his, he looked into her eyes and replied evenly, “Of course, I will stay for dinner. My mother must have told you, I love apple pie.”

“Jack, this poor little thing has been in the kitchen all afternoon. Please take her to the couch. I will finish setting the table. It’s the least I can do.”

“Could I interest you in a glass of wine?” Jack said going to the small bar at the end of the sitting room.

“Actually a small glass of white wine would be nice,” Shelby said wondering exactly how much alcohol was in the Colter House.

Jack brought a glass of white wine to and raised his bourbon and water,

“I’d like to propose a toast.”

Accepting the wine, she weakly raised the glass dreading what he was about to say next.

Jack watched the shy way she brought the glass to her lips. Her perfectly formed mouth proving to be a distraction. The heavy lashes that shadowed her cheeks flew up. He was once again lost in her eyes.

“To a lovely and talented lady,” he announced cheerfully as he raised his glass to hers, “may this night be the first of many.”

Shelby smiled and drank more of the wine than she intended to. He probably thinks I am an alcoholic.

“I went out and brought some of your books this afternoon,” he boasted, “you are quite the writer.”

“Really?” Shelby stammered remembering the passage she read. She hoped he didn’t notice her hands were shaking.

“And there’s no man in your life?” he put more as a question than a statement.

“No,” she said out loud, then to herself, well except for the off-duty, married policeman I have following you, there is no man in my life. With a frown and close to disclosing the truth, she added, “But you should know I’m not the person you may think I am.”

“You are right about that! “ Jack agreed too quickly.

Shelby felt her face burn.

“Yes, well,” she stammered with as much dignity as she could muster, “you shouldn’t judge a book by the cover.”

Jack laughed again.

Trying to figure a quick way out of this conversation, she took another swallow and finished the glass of wine. At this moment, she didn’t care whether he thought she was an alcoholic or not.

“I’m sorry,” Jack apologized. He took the empty wine glass and headed toward the bar.

His mind told him to slow down but his mouth was aching for the touch of her lips. Blood was

coursing through his veins like an awakened river. He wasn’t dead after all. As he refilled her glass, he promised himself to stay well within codes of chivalry. Anymore roguish behavior, and he would be out of the house like yesterday’s trash. Returning the glass to her, he said, “I don’t mean to make you feel uncomfortable. I suppose

you get that a lot from men. And, I don’t want you to think that I am just another man who….”

He grinned. He was fooling no one least of all himself.

“Silver, look, you will have to forgive me. It’s just that it’s been a long time since I was so attracted to anyone. I’m probably violating some rule of etiquette by telling you so. So barring my further bad manners, tell me, more about you. How, for instance, did you get involved writing romances?”

Actually your Mother came up with this ridiculous story so that I could follow you, Shelby wanted to say but instead she said to him, “I always wanted to be a writer. Jack, I would rather learn more about you.”

“I’m my father’s son, Silver. Born and raised right here in this very house. Since you are working on research about our little corner of the world, perhaps I can have the pleasure of showing you around.”

“Now that is an excellent idea!” Maggie said coming into the room. “Silver made these wonderful hors’ dovers, Jack, do have one.”

Before setting down the platter of shrimp in front of them, she gave the plate a full 180 degree turn showing off the delicacies. “That’s Garlic Shrimp, Barbeque Shrimp and Coconut Beer Shrimp with Sweet and Tangy dipping sauce. Try one.”

“Oh my gosh,” Jack said with the first bite, “This is delicious!”

“Why don’t you have one too, Silver?” Maggie offered sweetly.

Incensed, Shelby could do little but glare at Maggie. Maggie popped another shrimp into her mouth and grinned shamelessly.

“Where exactly do you live in Louisiana?” Jack asked getting a second helping.

The shrimp with its light flavor seemed to melt in his mouth. He savored the delicacy. This woman could cook! Should he tell her he was in love with her cooking? Not yet. Determined to play it cool, he knew his interest in Ms. Lake went well beyond her cooking and literary prowess. “Do you live in the beautiful Bayou Country?”

“I’m not sure,” Shelby muttered still too furious with Maggie to think clearly. Jack‘s blank look brought her back to the moment, She added quickly, “I meant, that I’m not sure where I live anymore, flying around the country to book signings and publisher’s meetings.”

Jack nodded satisfied with her answer.

“Well, Hendersonville is a quiet little town, a good town to settle in,” Maggie said, then added quickly, “and raise a family.”

Shelby sank into the chair and let the conversation flow around to the family business. Jack told Maggie about some shipments that went out to the wrong retailer that he was able to correct.

Shelby was lost in thought when Maggie caught her attention.

“I think that is a wonderful idea, Jack! Silver, don’t you agree?”

Shelby looked at Maggie then to Jack. “I’m sorry, what did you say?”

Maggie was beaming. “Jack was telling me he was going to show you around Hendersonville for your research. I think that is a wonderful idea!”

Under the circumstances, she could do little but agree.

“Great,” Jack said “I’m due a few days off from the store. I can certainly take the time to drive you around. By the way, what is your book about? Another historical romance?”

“No,” Shelby replied she said glaring straight at Maggie Colter, “this is more of a contemporary book, about a private eye who winds up in a real pickle.”

“Sounds interesting. Do you know any private eyes?”

“As a matter of fact, I do,” Shelby replied throwing a menacing look to Maggie.

“Well, let’s not keep that delicious dinner waiting another minute.” Maggie said rising to her feet. Shelby couldn’t help but admire Maggie’s gift of easing out of tight situations. Shelby speculated, if Maggie hadn’t chosen the life of a housewife and mother, she would have made a great career criminal.

Everyone stopped at the dining room entrance. Every inch of space on the table was filled with Cajun cuisine. Spicy aromas filled the entire room and each dish looked more delightful and more beautiful than the one before.

“Oh my gosh!” Jack and Shelby said in unison. Jack recovered first.

“You’re a woman of many talents, Silver.” he said holding her chair out for her.

Only Maggie heard Shelby’s soft growl as she sat.

Jack seated his Mother and wasted no time reaching for the Louisiana Black Muffins, “How is it a man hasn’t snatched you up by now?”

“One almost did,” Silver replied accepting the basket of muffins, “but that was years ago. And thankfully, so is he.”

Jack’s eyes softened. “I’m sorry. Years ago I lost my heart to someone too. She betrayed me, lied to me. It took me years to get over her. In fact, while I can’t remember her face anymore, I remember how it felt to be lied to.”

“Let’s not talk about sad times, Jack,” Maggie quipped offering him a platter of sautéed vegetables. The aroma of the food was intoxicating.

“This is delicious,” Jack said his plate filled with the entrees, “You’re an amazing woman, Silver. Is there nothing you can’t do?”

Shelby smiled not knowing what to say.

They finished the meal with light chatter.

She had to remind her heart more than once that under no circumstances would she, could she, let his handsome, debonair man into her life. Years of investigative work had left her with one and only one conclusion, no man could ever be trusted.

She had to keep a cool distance and a cool head if she were going to do her job. And, she acknowledged, she had to get Jack Colter out of her life as soon as possible.

Watching the casual way he moved, sultry, masculine, she knew those dark mysterious sea blue eyes would surely be the death of her. She couldn’t help but notice the tenderness that he showed his Mother. Breathlessly aware of this man, she knew under other circumstances might have even enjoyed his light flirtation.

Still, Shelby was wistfully aware of the strong sense of family in the room. Despite everything past, everything present, everything future, she wished, somewhere some how she could be part of so much love. Taken unaware by her own heart, she realized had been alone too long.

As the meal concluded, Shelby realized was developing a strong fondness with Maggie and her silly, bizarre, elaborate schemes. To be honest, she also had to acknowledge a very strong attraction to this handsome man.

Clearly, she was on dangerous ground.

Maggie sliced the sweet dough apple pie, cutting three slices. She first passed a slice to Shelby, then one to Jack before serving herself.

The door bell rang, its sound resonating through the old house in sharp alarm. Call it feminine intuition, years on the police force or maybe it was her time spent in private investigations, Shelby knew this case was suddenly going from bad to worse.

CHAPTER 3

“Look who’s here,” Maggie said returning with a large burly white haired man in tow. “Brad McClannahan.”

Shelby looked at him and was greeted with an instant, warm, friendly smile. Though he stood six feet-four inches and weighed close to two hundred fifty pounds, Shelby instinctively knew he was one of those gentle giants who despite his size wouldn’t hurt a soul. His silvery blond hair, fair skin and strong angular jaw spoke of a Dutch or German ancestry.

She dismissed her premonition, this man was no threat to her or was he? Her instincts were very rarely wrong.

“Now where did this pretty little thing come from?” Brad said. The warmth of his voice filled the room.

“Actually from your neck of the woods,” Jack replied, “She’s from Bayou Country. You can’t have her. She’s mine.”

Brad laughed. “Jack, your Mother is the only woman for me. For five years I’ve been asking her to marry me and she still won’t say yes!”

Maggie giggled and managed a school girl blush. “Brad, you’re a big tease. Now do hush up so I can make proper introductions. Dear one, Brad is one of our oldest and dearest friends. He’s part of the family. And Brad, I’d like you to meet the famous romance novelist Silver Jamison Lake!”

Brad’s eyes narrowed and grew dark. His relaxed pose stiffened. His face changed from warm benevolence to one of shock then pure animosity.

“Silver Lake?” was all he could say. “The romance novelist, Silver Lake?”

Shelby knew instinctively something was very wrong. Brad continued to glare at her. Neither Jack nor Maggie seemed to notice the change.

“You’re just in time for pie,” Jack said motioning the older man to join them at the table. “Now I know how you pride yourself on your Cajun cooking but this little lady wrote the book, in fact two on Louisiana Cooking.”

Brad scanned the table. His light blue eyes widened with fury as he took in the Chicken and Seafood Jambalaya, candied sweet potatoes, sautéed vegetables before resting on the New Orleans Black Muffins.

Shelby had never seen food have such a negative reaction on anyone before.

She began running his name and his face through her memory. Had she crossed paths with this massive man before? Certainly she would have recognized a client. Had he been a paramour of one of her client’s spouses? Perhaps he was a criminal from her days with the Police Department. For the moment, she was unable to place him. On the other hand, he seemed to know her.

Watching Brad move slowly about the table, he kept his eyes on Shelby. Settling in the chair across from her, his eyes remained fixed on her.

“So you’re the famous author, Silver Lake,” he repeated with a sneer. “Imagine that.”

Shelby half smiled. So he wasn’t one of Silver Lake’s fans. He didn’t have to be so nasty.

“Silver, Brad is one was the one who introduced me to your books.” Maggie cooed. “Brad, really this pie is simply delicious. In fact it’s Silver’s signature dessert. Do have a slice.”

“You baked this sweet dough apple pie?” Brad growled. “So, Ms. Lake, what brings a famous novelist like you to our little mountain town.”

“Silver’s doing research on a book.” Maggie interjected, and then sounding very pleased added, “Jack has offered to show her around.”

Jack nodded and looked straight at the older man. “Say, Brad, could we talk you into taking Silver up in your Piper Cub for a bird’s eye view of the mountains?”

Shelby leaned back; uncomfortable with the direction this conversation was headed. She had no intention of getting into a plane with this man. The way he was looking at her, he would probably throw her out the plane at fifteen thousand feet.

“That’s a great idea, Jack.” Brad said with an even smile. Turning to Shelby he added, “How about it, Ms. Lake? Like you, I have been flying for years.”

“How kind of you Brad!” Maggie cheered adding her voice to the fray.

“I wouldn’t want to impose on Brad,” Shelby protested. She didn’t want to admit she was afraid of flying and small planes terrified her. However, at the moment, Brad McClannahan was her biggest worry. Who was he? Why was he so angry with her?

“She’s all mine tomorrow,” Jack announced looking tenderly at Shelby. “I suppose I could bring her by Thursday or Friday.”

“Perfect,” Brad sneered.

Shelby cringed. No one seemed to notice his open hostility but her.

Something was amiss and she didn’t know what. She also knew that she had two possibly three days before the truth would come out. When it did the Colters and this Brad McClannahan fellow would be out of her life for good.

“Try some dessert, Brad,” Maggie said urging him to sample the sweet dough apple pie.

Brad looked at the pie as if it were filled with micro-bacteria. He shook his head and replied, “No thanks, I just finished a big meal up at the Lodge, Maggie. But I’ll take some of your coffee.”

“Absolutely, Brad.” Maggie said with a smile then to Jack said, “It’s a lovely evening, why don’t you take our little Silver out to enjoy the garden. She could use some fresh air.”

Ready to get away from Brad McClannahan, she would have gone with the devil, but Jack was certainly a more attractive and preferable choice.

“You kids run along,” Maggie insisted, “I’ll take care of this later.

Shelby was just outside the room, when she heard Maggie say, “She’s such a sweet girl.”

“Maggie,” Brad said in a low angry whisper. “Do you know anything about this girl? You can’t just let anyone into your home. I swear woman, if you had a brain in your head. . . .”

Maggie’s light laughter covered the rest of his warning.

Jack had already crossed the kitchen and was waiting for her to join him. Though she had seen the garden by day, she was hardly prepared for the beautiful outdoor world Maggie had fashioned in the moonlight.

Filled with flat river stones that curved their way through a thicket of rose bushes, it wound past several antique bird baths to stop at a small white gazebo in the far corner. It was a midsummer night and the garden was alive and in full bloom. A sweet smell of perfumed lilies and honeysuckle hung in the air, a thick fragrant mist that layered the garden in magical, honeyed aromas.

The Carolina moon was a massive golden sphere that had just risen above a stand of oaks. It bathed the garden in soft ivory light. Though the garden was alive with vibrant color by day, at night the garden was brilliant in silvery foliage and pale shades that delicately picked up the luminescent glow of the moon. Several four foot high trellises were draped in vines and moonflower. This was a quiet world, a world away from all others. It had been designed for romantic strolls and peaceful moments below the starry night sky.

Shelby turned but almost fell into Jack’s chest. His arms gathered naturally around her. His nearness was overwhelming.

A surge of wanting ran through him and he couldn’t deny the spark of excitement at the mere prospect of a stolen kiss.

She felt small and light in his arms. She had captivated him. He wanted her to find him desirable, as irresistible as he was finding her.

“Look at the moon,” she said trying to turn away but he held her with such gentleness she dared not move. She was both breathless and shy. Her heart was racing. She dared not look up into his eyes. “It’s absolutely beautiful. Perhaps we should go and ask your Mother to come out.”

“Not just yet, Silver.” he said in a soft whisper. Her closeness was intoxicating. He tenderly began to explore her with his eyes, going places he wanted to touch with his lips.

Jack’s fingertips were feather-light, soft and sensual as he traced them gently across her shoulders. His arms wrapped about her. His breath was warm, sweet, and succulent as it danced lightly across her face. His index finger gently lifted her chin as if not to frighten her. Only a breath separated his firm lips from hers. Shelby looked up, Jack’s blue eyes were warm with hunger, and yet strangely reflective. In his arms, she felt exhilaration, fear, but also safe. She was too close to him. She couldn’t bear the intensity of the moment.

With an awkwardness she hadn’t felt since her teens, she placed her hand on his broad chest. Pressing it lightly against him, she pushed away. Jack offered no resistance. Shelby looked across the garden. Standing not six inches away from him, she already missed his nearness. In a voice that was barely audible, she asked, “Who is Brad?”

“He was my father’s best friend,” Jack explained. He wasn’t ready for her to slip out of his arms. Though disappointed, he managed to have the good manners to let her go, at least for the moment. He cleared his throat and answered her, “My Dad met Brad in the army. Two southern boys, they became great friends. He spent most of his life in New Orleans. He moved here permanently about eight months ago. Between you and me, I think he has been in love with my Mother all his life.”

“And what about her?”

“My Mother? Ha, the only thing on her brain these days is grandchildren.” Suddenly, he added with a wicked grin, “I’m in the mood to oblige her.”

Shelby blushed. She looked across the garden trying to focus on the gazebo. Jack was watching her, and he knew she was smiling.

“So, how come you aren’t married with kids?” she asked boldly.

“Me?” Jack asked as if she had taken him by surprise. “I love kids. Would love to have a house full, just never met the right woman. What about you?”

“Never met the right man.”

Jack grinned and came up behind her. He gently placed her small hand on the crook of his arm. He felt the electricity of her touch. Did she feel it too?

“Come, let me show you the gazebo,” he said in a hushed tone.

Together they strolled down the path. The moment was too perfect. Deep within, she felt her heart racing the moon. She relished each moment so near to him yet she knew she was walking on dangerous ground.

“So what specifically are you researching?” Jack asked breaking the quiet of the garden.

“Just gathering information for a location of my new book,” Shelby lied. How easy it is becoming for me to lie, she noted. She didn’t find pleasure in this. Deciding it was best to cover her preverbal tracks. “I really don’t like to talk about my work in progress.”

The conversation was becoming even more precarious by the moment. If she were going to manage the situation and Jack, she would have to control their activities. She absolutely could not run the risk of running into someone she would know or would know her. Where could they go?

“If your offer is still open, I haven’t seen the Blue Ridge Parkway,” she suggested. "That is of course, if it’s not too much trouble. ”

“The Parkway it is,” Jack replied.

“Good,” she said with a smile. It was midweek few locals would be on the parkway. She felt relieved.

“What time can I pick you up? And by the way, if my Mother hasn’t mentioned it, I live right next door.”

“Yes, she mentioned it," Shelby replied. She was infinitely annoyed at Maggie for omitting that tidbit of information from Jack’s profile. Did it matter? What troubled her more was the feeling Maggie was hiding more.

“Eight will be fine,” Shelby answered Jack as she wondered how she was going to keep her attraction to this man at bay.

The serenity of the garden and his closeness grew in intensity as if an unbreakable bond was forming between them. She wasn’t sure she could manage this romantic setting with Jack one moment longer. Coward, she chided herself, as she said, “Jack, if you don’t mind, I think I will turn in for the night.”

“I’ll let you go Silver,” he promised softly, “but not before I do this.”

His arms were suddenly about her. There was no escape for her this time, and she wasn’t sure she wanted one. His soft mouth came down on hers and the sweetness of its warmth seared her lips.

Taken by surprise, she felt her arms rise to resist him but instead, of their own accord, her arms slid about his shoulders, pressing her body into the sweetness of his. Lost in the ecstasy of his embrace her body melted into his. The smell of him was intoxicating. Her mind, her heart, her soul drowned in a flood of pleasure and unbridled emotions.

As her passion rose to meet his, her body was alive with fire. He brought her even closer to him. As if claiming her, his soft lips pressed tempestuously into her mouth. The flutter of butterfly wings rose from within her and spread through her body. In her soul, she knew she had lived for this moment, this man, this kiss.

Perhaps it was the pull of the moonlight or perhaps the overwhelming sense of emotions too deep, too real to grasp in a single moment, but they pulled apart. Each looked into the others eyes. Her heart was pounding, and she was too breathless to even speak.

“I’m glad I didn’t run over you this morning,” he said in a whisper.

“Me too,” Shelby said so softly she wasn’t sure he had heard her voice. For one unguarded moment, she fell back into his arms then pushed away. Her head cleared. This was too right, she thought, too perfect, yet so very, very wrong. This could not, would not ever be.

As if sensing she was about to pull away from him, his hand cupped her right shoulder. He stared with deep longing for something more than just a kiss. He was begging her not to go. He was begging for a promise she could never give him.

Fearing she was about to lose a part of her she could never reclaim, she fought the moonlight, the sweet smell of magnolias and honeysuckle. She fought for a foothold in reality away from him. The terror seized her, consuming her. If she were to survive this night, she had to run away. She had to run away from her heart.

I cannot enter this place, she thought blinking away a tear that threatened to fall. I cannot enter this warm safe place. I will not, she cried to her soul. She knew too well, the dark side of love where hurt and pain hid in the shadows. With her whole body shaking, she knew she was standing on unholy ground.

“I have to go,” she insisted. “It’s late.”

“Silver,” Jack said his voice soft. “Whatever it is you are running from, I want you to know there is no need to fear me. I won’t ever hurt you. I will never hurt you.”

He read her too well.

“Jack, I…” she began but he stopped her.

“Pretty lady, you have had an eventful day. You need to rest. I won’t look so dangerous in the morning.”

Despite herself she grinned. With a laugh, she said trying not to sound coy, “I’m not so sure about that.”

He brought his face close to her and with a broad grin said, “Well, you’ll have to get to know me and my mountains. You’ll see this is a safe place. Now I forbid you to leave me alone in the moonlight, I’ll walk you in and save my kisses for another time.”

Damn, she cursed in silence, why was he always so charming, funny and so handsome?

True to his word, and without further comment, he walked her back to the house and made no further attempt to keep her near him. Shelby wasn’t sure if that pleased her or not.

“Going to bed, dear?” Maggie said when they returned to the living room. “You look tired, dear.”

“Yes,” Shelby said with a nod. “I’m tired.”

Despite the glare from Brad McClannahan, good manners dictated she at least address him. “Nice meeting you, Brad.”

With that and a final smile and nod in Jack’s direction, Shelby allowed Maggie to guide her toward the stairway.

”Good night, Silver,” Jack softly called out to her. “Sweet dreams.”

Shelby returned his smile and followed Maggie up the long flight of stairs.

Once inside the room, Maggie flipped on the bathroom light and pulled out a floral terry wash cloth and a large matching towel from the cupboard. She laid them on the bathroom counter.

Maggie wasted no time crossing the room to fold down the covers for her guest. “I’m glad you are here.”

“Thank you,” Shelby replied, “But I really think we need to tell Jack the truth.”

“Not yet, Shelby dear,” Maggie cooed, “Let’s give it a day or so. We’ll have to come up with a plan to tell Jack in just the right way.”

This was against her better judgment but Shelby had little choice.

“One more day,” Shelby warned. Maggie’s smile was a weak attempt of complacency and Shelby knew it.

Helping Maggie with the lavender quilt, Shelby said, “Jack and I are driving to the Parkway tomorrow. I doubt if I will run into anyone who knows me there, especially midweek. If there is anyone following Jack, I will be able to keep him safe.”

“Good thinking,” Maggie lauded her. “Oh, by the way, I smuggled your things in earlier. Your clothes are in the dresser. I put your gun in the night stand.”

This woman is incorrigible and without conscience, Shelby thought, hiding a wicked grin from Maggie. Maggie did not need further encouragement.

“You understand, Jack could find out the truth on his own at any time.”

“But he won’t be half as mad at you as he will be at me,”

Shelby found no comfort in Maggie’s words. She wondered if a man who appeared to be so slow to anger would prove indomitable when enraged.

Before she left the room, Maggie gave her a quick squeeze.

“Not to worry, these things happen to me all the time. Now have a good night's sleep.”

Alone at last and too tired to think, Shelby managed a quick shower. She slipped into her comfortable, well worn night shirt and turned out the light.

The light breeze carried with it the still sweet smell of magnolias and summer flowers but also something more, the soft mummer of voices directly below her in the garden.

In the darkness of the room, she walked across to the window. Just below her she could see the outline of Jack and Brad McClannahan talking to one another. She listened to their words.

“You don’t know anything about this woman!” Brad argued.

“I know she is beautiful, talented and interesting. Why are you so suspicious?”

“She’s not who she says she is, Jack,” came Brad’s quick reply.

“Come off it Brad! Why would she lie?” Jack snapped, “Come up with something besides your feminine intuition and I’ll listen. Until then, I’m planning on keeping company with the prettiest woman I have seen in this town in years.”

“I’ll find out who this Silver Lake is,” Brad warned. “I don’t know what her scam is, but I intend to find out. While you are out tomorrow, I’m going to do a little poking around myself. I want to know who this woman is and what she wants.”

Shelby fell back into the soft sheer white curtains, wondering why Brad McClannahan was so suspicious of her. He apparently knew something, but what? With growing suspicions of her own, she wondered if Brad had something to do with the reason she was here. She decided to find out a little more about Brad McClannahan herself and why he was making such a fuss over her.

In the dark, it took her several minutes to find her cell phone. She dialed Chris Thompson.

“Hi Shelby,” Chris answered, “I’m right outside the house. Nothing has happened since Brad McClannahan left the Colter house a few minutes ago.”

“You know Brad McClannahan?” Shelby asked in surprise.

“Sure, he moved here a while back. He volunteers with the Civil Air Patrol. He helped out last Spring when we were looking for those lost hikers. Heck of a nice guy.”

“Not by me,” Shelby protested. She filled Chris in on her accident that morning, the encounter with Jack and the elaborate cover Maggie created for her. When she finished she could feel her cheeks burning. Chris didn’t bother to hide his snickers. A split second later he burst into a roar of laughter.

“That’s a good one! A romance novelist! That sounds like something Maggie Colter would come

up with. Ha!” “Well, it’s not funny to me. Look, I am stuck in here, so keep me posted if anything comes up.” “You got that, Ms. Lake. Oh, oh, can I have your autograph, Ms. Lake?” Shelby hung up the phone to the sound of his laughter. Minutes later she was fighting with the covers and pillows, still feeling annoyed with Chris,

Maggie and herself. How and why had she let Maggie Colter talk her into this foolishness? She settled back into the soft pillows and tried not to think of Jack or his sweet kisses. The bed was comfortable and the night air was both cool and sweet. The four poster bed

swallowed her in rich comfort. The next morning, she could not even remember falling asleep.

“Good morning, dear,” Maggie welcomed her as she entered the kitchen. Jack was sitting beside his Mother and greeted her with a broad smile. He folded the Hendersonville Times News and laid it to his side.

“I’ve fixed breakfast, dear,” Maggie said taking a plate of scrambled eggs, hash browns and bacon from the microwave. “It’s still warm. You will have to forgive our bad manners, but Jack and I have already eaten.”

Maggie brought the plate to the table and returned with a cup of coffee for Shelby. “You should have awakened me earlier,” Shelby said accepting the cup. “Mornin’ beautiful,” Jack said with a roguish grin. Shelby remembered their kiss in the garden and could still feel his lips soft upon hers. Nodding her head, she stared down at the plate and with a vengeance tackled the scrambled eggs.

Damn, she thought, he looked more handsome this morning than he had the night before. “Oh, it’s time to take my heart pills,” Maggie said going to the kitchen sink. She brought a small container to the table and swallowed the two pills with her orange juice. Shelby noticed the soft look Jack gave his Mother and smiled at the exchange. This was a good man and a good son.

Her cell phone rang as she took a bite of bacon. It was Chris. Both Maggie and Jack watched her read the number.

“Ah, it’s my…ah…agent,” Shelby quipped answering the call. How easy it was becoming to lie.

“Shelby,” Chris spoke without preamble, “I saw the truck again this morning around four-thirty. It made a full pass down the street.”

“Was it the same one?” she asked Chris. She offered Jack and Maggie a weak smile and tried to focus on her conversation.

“Yes, it was moving slowly. Definitely checking out the Colter house. I think they saw me. I tried to follow the truck but lost it out on highway 64 close to Etowah. I’m beginning to think the threat to the Colters might just be real.”

“I agree,” Shelby concurred feeling very uneasy. “Look today, I am going with Mrs. Colter’s son. He’s taking me on a drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway. I’d appreciate it if you kept an eye on the …. ah…book the other book.”

“What book?” Chris asked sounding puzzled. “Oh, you mean Maggie Colter.”

“Yes, that one,” Shelby quickly replied.

“Will do,” Chris agreed, then added with a chuckle, “You know Shelby, Jack is considered quite a catch around here.”

“Oh hush up,” she hissed into the phone. “I’m not going to argue with you about this any more. Now, have a good day. I’ll talk to you later.”

She managed to come up with a weak smile and slipped the phone back into its carrying case. With a sigh, she professed, “Agents!”

“Well, it’s going to be a beautiful day for a drive on the Parkway,” Maggie said rising from the table with her coffee cup.

Jack seemed amused. To Shelby’s great annoyance he hadn’t stopped smiling at her since she had walked into the room. Why did he have to be so damn good-looking?

Maggie rose and walked to the coffee pot, poured herself a cup, then offered a cup to Shelby and Jack. They shook their heads. Maggie walked back to the table and said, “Well, nothing to worry about today. I’m sure you two are going to have a wonderful time.”

“Why don’t you come with us?” Shelby urged her. Maggie’s presence would certainly hinder any more intimate moments.

Maggie shook her head, “Oh no, you two kids run along. I’m sure Jack will be an excellent guide. Behave yourself, young man.”

Jack gave Shelby a grin. She looked deep into his soft blue gaze and found a look of unmitigated trust. If he had any doubts of her, there was no trace of it in his behavior or disposition. What kind of man would trust a stranger so completely?

She shifted in her chair and took a sip of juice. Maggie’s lie was beginning to haunt her, she thought looking out into the garden. And, she wondered how many more lies would she have to tell Jack this day?

“I already have a cooler packed with ice, soft drinks and water,” Jack said finishing his coffee. “I thought we would have lunch on the Parkway. There is a beautiful little hotel and restaurant with a nice overlook atop Pisgah Mountain.”

“That is a wonderful idea, Jack. Silver will enjoy the Pisgah Inn.” Maggie concurred, “You two run along now.”

With Jack’s eyes wide excited and impatient upon her, she had little to do but go upstairs and gather her things. Her things included a small 9 millimeter Glock handgun which she placed into her holster purse.

The purse was specially designed with a compartment to conceal a gun. It was separate from the car keys and makeup. She slipped the Velcro strap over the handgun. The purse’s extra padding reinforced the hold and discreetly concealed her handgun. Though she had a special permit which allowed her to carry a concealed weapon, today, she was more concerned about concealing her ‘secret identity’.

For good measure, she picked up the camera and small notebook; she had remembered to pack in her suitcase the day before. Jack would expect her to have these things. She knew she would have to play her part well, to get through the day.

Shelby heard a light tap on her door. Turning, Shelby saw Maggie and motioned for her to come in the room.

“I was wondering,” Maggie began, “was that phone call anything to do with Jack?”

“I’m not sure,” Shelby replied measuring each word, “at least nothing we can be sure about at the moment. We are continuing to chase a few leads down today. We may have something later.”

“We?” Maggie asked.

Shelby closed her purse. “When I need more man hours than I can handle, I hire my former partner who still works at the Hendersonville Police Department. I trust him with my life and I most certainly trust him with your son’s life.”

Maggie nodded. “I ‘m not worried about that. If he works for you, I’m sure he is trustworthy. You just go off and enjoy the day with Jack and don’t worry about a thing.”

“It’s my job to worry, Maggie, and to keep your son safe,” Maggie replied wondering who was going to keep her safe from Jack.

“From everything I have seen so far,” Maggie said her eyes shining bright, “I think everything is turning out better than even I planned.”

Shelby stopped and looked straight at Maggie, “What do you mean ‘turning out better than you had planned’?”

Maggie’s eyes flashed then widened, but she was not caught off guard, “Why that you are here and my son is safe. What else could I possibly mean?”

Indeed, Shelby thought.

“Maggie,” Shelby said in a whisper, “Are you hiding something from me?”

“Me? Oh no,” came Maggie’s too quick response. Shelby knew she was lying.

Maggie smiled sweetly. “Run along dear, have a nice day.”

Shelby stared at Maggie. Her innocent demeanor was fooling no one, especially her. Shelby shook her head and followed her heart down to the first floor.

“Ready?” Jack called from the front door. He escorted her out to the Ford Bronco and opened the passenger side door.

Slipping into the seat, Jack brought down the safety belt around her waist and snapped it into place. He took a moment to make sure it was both comfortable and secure.

“Just part of the service,” he said with a grin.

Shelby gave him a soft smile. Didn’t he know the mere touch of his fingertips on her skin caused an unexpected flutter in the pit of her stomach? She decided she wouldn’t tell him.

Maggie had walked out on the porch and waved goodbye.

“Ready,” Jack asked.

Shelby laughed, “I was born ready.”

Jack laughed. His eyes were disarming as he engaged hers.

Decidedly, she would have to look elsewhere for distraction this day.

As the SUV began to weave through the streets, Jack began to point out area landmarks.

“You might find it interesting to note that Hendersonville was once the favorite hunting grounds of the Cherokee. Since the 1920s, however, it’s been a summer resort town, though you will find some argument there with our local folks who enjoy mild winters here. Hendersonville is host to the North Carolina Apple Festival and several annual events. As far as cities go, we have an Art Center, and a symphony orchestra. We also play host to the North Carolina State Theater at East Flat Rock.”

Jack’s voice was pleasant, rich in sultry tones that resonated though her body. She had only to listen and occasionally nod at his narration. While the words may not hold her interest, the man certainly did, and today there was no escaping him.

Not quite midmorning, the traffic was light. The morning air was cool and her whole body was unnerved with his nearness.

Carolina pines and hundred year old oaks that lined the building and offices of Hendersonville, gave way to impressive main gates of some of the area’s most exclusive neighborhoods at the outskirts of town. Gradually the vistas changed once again from rolling hillside golf communities to stately farm houses that sat against the dramatic backdrop of low lying mountains.

Outside Etowah, the road curved just a bit. Nearing the Holmes State Forest turn off, Shelby happened to glance at the Circle K Convenience Store located at the turn off. She bolted upright. A brown pick up truck was at the gas pump.

Grasping for an excuse to stop, she stammered, “Would you mind stopping? I need more film for my camera.”

“Sure,” Jack replied.

He drove the Bronco into the Circle K parking lot. Jack appeared to be very much enjoying the day.

Whether she surprised him or not, Shelby jumped out of the vehicle and hurried toward the store. Nearing the Ford truck, she slowed her pace keeping her full attention on the two men who had emerged from the truck.

Shelby took note of the license plate. She was sure it was the same number Chris had given to her. She glanced back at Jack. He was occupied with his radio.

She turned her attention to the poorly dressed men at the pump. The men were arguing as to who was going to pay for the gas. Apparently the younger of the two lost the argument. With unkempt hair down over his forehead, he passed right in front of her. Shelby quickly noted his height, his weight, hair color, clothing, and the type of shoes he wore. She scanned for jewelry, tattoos, and details.

Inside the store, she grabbed 35 mm film at the counter display and stood directly behind the man who was busy counting out a few dollar bills. He mumbled something to the clerk and was out the door as quickly as he had entered.

Shelby again watched both men and kept a guarded eye on Jack.

The argument resumed when the young man returned to the truck. Shelby stuck the film in her pocket and made ready to take their picture. If noticed by either, she would appear just another tourist photographing the mountain ridge behind them.

Noticing her, Jack stepped out of the bronco and came toward her. “Step over here,” Shelby urged him. “I’ll take your picture.” “Sure,” Jack said sounding pleased and flattered at her request. Not only was Jack facing away from the men, but she had a clear view of both of them and the

truck.

Jack, a veteran of numerous catalog photo shoots, put his hands on his hips and gave her a sharp profile. Snap, she took a picture of Jack with the camera’s focus on the men and the truck behind him. Snap, snap. Jack began to playfully pose for her.

He flexed his biceps, chuckling to himself, and then brought his massive arms in front of him to give her full dimension of his physique. Shelby smiled weakly, wishing he would step out of the shot. “This is my best superman pose,” Jack called out to her with laughter and placed his hands squarely on his hips,. He turned his head giving her a side profile of his handsome face. Shelby snapped the camera; certain she got the corner of Jack’s nose and a clean shot of the younger man. She side stepped Jack to get a better picture of the older man, but Jack matched her movements

blocking the shot. Paying no attention to either Shelby or Jack, the men jumped into the truck. It roared to life. Snap, snap, she now had the side views of the truck and a clear shot of the license plate as the

old truck pulled out of the station. Turning back to Jack, she was surprised to find him still preening in a ridiculous pose. “Where does that road go?” she called out to him, eager to follow the men. Rushing back to the vehicle, she ignored Jack’s look of disappointment. Egomaniac, she thought

with a chuckle jumping into the vehicle. If he had been disappointed, it was forgotten by the time he slipped behind the steering wheel.

“That road leads to Holmes Educational Forest. As a matter of fact, you may be interested in…” “Great!” Shelby cried before he finished, “Let’s go!” Jack looked perplexed but not disgruntled. He turned the key and the engine roared to life. “Hurry,” Shelby urged him There was no logical explanation for her abrupt behavior except the

truth. Instead, she lied, “I’ve read about Holmes Educational Forest. It would be great for my book.”

“Well, then,” his good nature restored. “If you want to go there, I will take you post haste.”

Oh please, Shelby cried inside, hurry.

He smiled to himself. First the grand dinner last night and then taking his picture. He couldn’t remember when a woman showed so much interest in him. This pleased him more than he wanted to admit. He coughed nervously and with a smile said, “I’m very flattered that you wanted to take my picture.”

“Yes!” Shelby said trying not to sound annoyed, “you’re welcome. Listen could we please hurry!”

Jack took precious seconds in pulling out of the parking space.

Hurry, hurry, hurry, she was screaming inside but gave Jack a weak smile.

The Ford truck had been moving slowly and they easily overtook them.

Ahead of them, the truck slowed pulling up behind a county maintenance tractor. Mowing the grassy shoulder of the road, it had slowed the traffic following it. Luck, she thought resting back in the seat, was on her side.

It was at that exact moment that the truck pulled past the slow moving county mowing tractor and vanished from her view.

Stay calm. Shelby told her, trying to quail her anxiety. The truck had been traveling at a slow pace, she reminded herself, they would be upon them soon enough.

However as Jack and Shelby neared the maintenance vehicle, it jolted to a complete halt. Shelby almost screamed out loud as they slowed to a full stop. She waited impatiently for the county road tractor to complete the left turn.

Shelby was barely aware of her own fingernails sinking deep into the palm of her hand. Struggling to maintain a calm demeanor, she waited impatiently for oncoming traffic to pass.

“Just five more miles,” Jack said reading her anxiety for the wrong reasons. She had lost the ability to speak.

At last the tractor turned down the dirt farm road. Ahead of them the two lane highway was free of traffic. The truck had vanished.

“Damn,” Shelby said under her breath. They had lost the men and the truck.

Disappointed she leaned back against the seat and patted her camera. She drew some small measure of consolation from the photos she had taken. The truck was gone. Still, she thought raising slight in her seat, perhaps, she could find it parked in front of one of the old frame houses that lined the road.

Turning to Jack, she offered him an appreciative smile. She protectively traced the outline of the 9 millimeter Glock in her handbag.

On either side of them sleek horses grazed in thick green pastures. Passing a farmhouse she saw two children were riding tricycles and a third was swinging in an old tire swing. From the back porch, their mother called out to the children as she shook out a kitchen rug.

The day seemed so ordinary. Nothing was out of place. Nothing was unusual. And yet, Shelby thought looking down the road, somewhere in the serene tranquility of a common day lay a very real and present danger.

Chapter Four

In the distance Shelby could see the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains. Though miles away, they loomed large and imposing, dominating the landscape with their exquisite beauty. Low lying clouds hung over the Mountain chain obscuring the long craggy ridge that stretch on for more miles than the eye could see.

Gradually the mountains became lost in tall trees that lined either side of the two lane highway. Closer still, multicolored patches of wildflowers covered the roadside, occasionally spilling over pavement along the shoulder.

The truck had disappeared.

With a sigh of resignation, Shelby realized the truck was either safely hidden behind a house or perhaps had turned onto a country road. Either way, it had there was no trace of it or the men. They had vanished into thin air. They had seemingly vanished into thin air. Shelby leaned against the seat and patted the camera. She had at least managed to take a picture of the truck.

So absorbed in her own thoughts, she was startled when Jack turned from the main road onto the gravel entrance of Holmes Regional Forest.

With an irresistibly devastating grin, Jack turned to her, “You will enjoy this.”

Shelby couldn’t help but return his infectious smile and tried to concentrate on her surroundings. After all, she reminded herself, she was a tourist or at least pretending to be one. This was an assignment not a date. She tried to focus her attention wholly on the short tree lined drive and not the man beside her. Less than a quarter mile away into the State Park, the road opened into a grassy parking lot.

One of six educational forests in North Carolina, Holmes was designed as a living environmental education center. It was without doubt one of North Carolina’s most beautiful state parks. Though local hikers and residents took full advantage of the trails, grassy knolls, and rustic picnic areas nestled among the trees, for the most part it was by-passed by tourists for more glamorous locales.

As Jack brought the Bronco to a full stop, Shelby opened her car door without waiting for him to come to her side.

Jack looked at bit disappointed he could not play the gentleman, but offered her a smile as he opened the hatch and retrieved two designer water bottles from a blue igloo cooler.

“It’s not that far but I don’t want you to be uncomfortable,” passing her one of the bottles.

She managed a small, tentative smile and accepted a water bottle. His fingers were cool and smooth as they touched her. His touch electrified her with a sensual warmth. Giving him a curt nod, she struggled to remain calm. She was a licensed private investigator she told the butterflies gathering in her abdomen, and this is not a date.

“Do I make you nervous?” Jack said noticing her jump. “Not at all,” Shelby lied hoping he didn’t notice the way her voice broke as she spoke. Their eyes met. “Let’s go do some sightseeing,” he said with a ready smile. Holding her hand, he urged her across a small wooden bridge. Without further comment, they

walked to the display which showcased a rendered map with trail heads of the park and a visitor information board.

Though Shelby had lived in Hendersonville for years she had only been to Holmes Forest on two occasions. One of her clients renewed their vows under the rustic wood pavilion here and the second time was the Henderson County Law Enforcement outing. On both occasions, she had stayed in the picnic area.

Jack busied himself reading the display information about the cost and damages of forest fires, the importance of a managed forest and good forest management. Shelby took advantage of the moment, looking about quickly get her bearings. The path to their left led to the rest room and facilities, the trail to the right to the picnic areas. The main path between the two led to the Talking Trees, the hiking trails and educational areas. Satisfied, she scanned the information.

She turned to Jack. “I’m intrigued. They have talking trees here?” “Well, let’s go see for ourselves.” he answered once again tenderly taking her hand. She was too aware of her hand in his but couldn’t think of a reason she could politely pull it

away. Besides, she mused, to be honest, she didn’t want to. Why did the touch of his hand electrify her entire body? Shelby knew how to handle a man who was a liar and a cheat. Jack Colter was neither. He was tender and sweet. Jack stopped and turned to her. His laugh was rich, pleasant and becoming familiar. She liked the sound of it. “I can’t remember the last time I did something fun like this. I think it’s because I work so much of the time. And, frankly, I just haven’t met anyone I wanted to spend what little time I had with.”

Without giving her time to respond, he turned down at her and with a truly wicked grin added, “At least until a few days ago.”

“Interesting,” Shelby said keeping her voice soft. She held her gaze steady on his blue eyes. “Most men want a woman like their mother.”

Jack laughed. “Not me! While I love my Mother and would be happy to expound on her virtues, she’s the most conniving woman you could ever meet. In a nice way, of course, but trust me; you have no idea what she is capable of.”

It was Shelby’s turn to laugh. With a toss of her head she wanted to shout out loud ‘Oh yes I do!’

“Black Bear,” Jack warned her, “don’t be afraid.”

“I’m not,” she said patting the gun in her carry purse.

“Bears once ruled these mountains.” Jack explained. “Now there’s just over two thousand of them in all of the Western Carolina Mountains.”

“They don’t want to see us, any more than we want to walk unexpectedly up to them,” Jack continued.” Remember we are encroaching on their habitat all the time, taking their food, destroying their food sources, their water and their homes.”

“Have you ever come upon one?”

Jack laughed. “Sure I have. If you ever do come upon bear, remember not to challenge him, don’t run away, that’s what a prey animal would do.”

“And if they attack?”

“Black Bear attacks are rare. If you’re attacked by any other bear, you should cover your head and play dead, and they’ll lose interest and walk away. Despite being the smallest of the American bears, Black Bears are the most dangerous. Silver, if a Black Bear attacks, you wouldn’t be able to fight back. But, you needn’t worried, just stay close to me.”

Shelby frowned. She knew full well that any black bear who had wandered though over night was long gone. If he thought she was going to act frightened, he was wrong. “Ah, the Talking Trees.” Jack said as the larger trail narrowed to a smaller walk way. “This will be the first of, I think, seven.” Winding their way up the path, they stopped in front of a giant poplar. Jack reached down and hit a small red button atop a kiosk. As the cheerful strands of mountain music began to play a recorded message began to play. “Hi I’m a Poplar Tree. I grow over one hundred fifty feet tall.”

“I see, the ‘Talking Trees’,” Shelby gave a quote sign with her fingers and the message continued to explain about the Poplar. “This is cute. I can see why children would love to come here.”

Jack seemed happy to have pleased her.

Being midmorning, there were no hikers or heavy travel, in fact they had the beautiful half mile stroll through the talking trees to themselves.

Listening to Jack speak about the forest or point out a flower or the squirrel who had come to watch them, Shelby felt uncomfortably at ease with the moment and with this man. So lost in the deep green of the woods, and the pleasant sound of sound of his voice, she felt her entire body relax, all stress and momentarily confusion of her life was simply forgotten in the deep greens of the forest trail.

With a sense of peace she hadn’t felt in a long time, they traveled along the easy trail going from one ‘Talking Tree' to the next. Twice they crossed over two small trickling streams that sang in bubbly melody over flat river rocks. Despite the awkwardness when the path narrowed, Jack never once let go of her hand.

Almost back to the parking area, they passed a retired couple out to enjoy the day with a large picnic basket.

Jack still kept her smaller hand safe within his and seemed reluctant to let go when they reached the SUV.

For a moment, his lips came close to hers, but he pulled away leaving her breathless. Without ceremony, he closed the door and hurried to his side of the car.

“If you are not too hungry,” inserting the key into the ignition, “I’d like to drive you to the Blue Ridge Parkway. We can grab a bite at the Pisgah Inn. It’s a restaurant that sits atop the parkway with some really spectacular views.”

“For the first time in a long time," Shelby said admitting to herself and Jack, “I’m in no hurry what-so-ever. That sounds nice.”

Leaving Holmes Educational Forest, Shelby made a promise to revisit the State Park then felt sad for though she would make good her promise, she would never return with the handsome Jack Colter as her guide.

Struggling to hold onto the magic she had felt just moments ago proved hopeless. Giving Jack a weak smile and seeing her smile returned she knew that Jack would forever haunt this place with the memory of this day.

Jack began to tell her of another Indian tale of the region. She knew he was trying hard to be a good host. Uncensored and unchecked, she could freely take in his handsome features, his lips, and his deep blue eyes.

Sitting next to him, she was conscious of his every move, his every breath. She was already beginning to miss him and he hadn’t even left. Finishing a Cherokee legend, he began pointing out some landmarks. Shelby remembered to keep an eye out for the Ford truck but it was nowhere to be found. She had nothing to do but enjoy the day and forcefully remind herself she was on assignment, not on a date.

Almost at the entrance to Pisgah Forest, they stopped at a red light. Without thinking she turned to look out the window and to her horror saw a friend from the Brevard Police Department. Off duty, he smiled and waved at Shelby, before motioning her to roll down the window.

Shelby smiled weakly. She tried to manage a look of confusion as if she didn’t recognize the universal signal for rolling down one’s window.

Jack had noticed. The frown on his face was dark and menacing.

Shelby turned back to her off-duty friend, who was once again, gesturing her to speak to him. Her stomach lurched. She felt she had little choice but to roll down the window. God, if you’re not too busy laughing at me, she prayed fervently, please, please make this damn light turn green.

The light suddenly turned green!

Hallelujah, her heart sang hallelujah, hallelujah, hal-le-lu-jah! She waved a goodbye to her friend and promised to give him a call later.

“Everyone is so friendly here,” she said leaning back into the passenger seat trying to avoid looking at Jack who was clearly annoyed.

“Huh,” Jack said his voice in a near growl, “That guy must have a death wish.”

Shelby would have liked to have told him the man was an old friend and nothing more but she couldn’t. She sat feeling curiously amused; her delight was in perfect and equal proportion to Jack’s irritability. Unfounded or not, she was secretly pleased at his unexpected show of rivalry. Why did this leave her secretly pleased?

Looking out the window trying to concentrate on the beautiful mountain scenery, she tried to understand the irony of her situation. She had always prided herself with her ability to remain cool and aloof by circumstances. Yet, sitting next to him, she found herself hanging on his words. Her errant heart was taking her places she could never go with Jack Colter. The moment he realized she was fostering a lie, this little make believe world would vanish in the smokey hues of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Guard your heart, Shelby MacGregor, she warned herself fearing her entanglement with Jack Colter was growing by the moment.

Why couldn’t she just tell him, she cried, then looked and saw his dazzling smile. Then she remembered her promise to Maggie Colter.

Just a few more hours she thought, then this ruse will be over. She could again be Shelby MacGregor and leave the lie of Silver Lake behind her. For now, she must keep her false identity and any fanciful sentiment and notions to herself. Good grief, she concluded, maybe I am cut out to be a romance writer, she certainly was developing the imagination for it!

Driving through the main entrance of Pisgah, her senses, her fears and her temporary new career were forgotten in the deep, dark, rich, green of the forest.

The leafy trees were in full foliage displaying the best of the area’s midsummer foliage. Treetops reached high toward the Carolina blue sky. Though not quite noon, long cool shadows stretched across the roadway. The forest dappled the area in a blend of brilliant light and lush tender shade. In places, branches and limb crossed over the road creating a natural canopy over the timberline. Lush green grasses added to the scenery filling the human senses with tranquility and soothing calm.

The Davidson River ran along side the road. The melodious sound of rushing water filled the day with a pleasant euphoric mood of ease and tranquility. Bright yellow and white sparkles of sunlight danced across the shallow river. Nothing could make this day more complete, Shelby thought in peaceful silence.

“Let’s stop here,” Jack said pulling into the Ranger Station.

Shelby bolted upright. Well, at least nothing but stopping in this busy parking lot. Alert, she scanned the immediate area. Most vehicles were out of state. This did not to pacify her.

Exposure at this moment would not be a pretty sight.

As usual the Ranger Station was busy with out-of-towners looking at several displays of mountain trout and wildlife of the area. The small gift shop was crowded with tourists examining books, knickknacks, and souvenirs of the Pisgah Forest.

Relieved to find no one she knew, she decided she’d best act the part of a quintessential tourist this day.

Jack duly followed her around, but drifted away from her toward the book section.

Despite her best intention, she saw him reading one of her favorite books on hiking. She came up to him and said, “I bet I’ve read that book a dozen times! The trails are unbelievably wonderful.”

Jack closed the book and glanced at the cover. He read aloud,” Little Known Hiking Trails along the Blue Ridge.”

Too late she realized her error. Nervously she bit her lip and felt her body shutter. She felt impaled by his questioning look in his eyes.

“You have hiked these trails?” his voice was dripping with misgiving.

“Ah, I’m ah," Shelby stammered feeling the scream of frustration at the back of her throat. How could she have been so stupid? She decided to deftly cover her tracks.

“Did I say I hiked those trails?” she said with a nervous laugh, “I meant I wanted…wanted to hike them. They seem so wonderful; the writer really did a good job. Makes you feel like you are really there!”

Before he had a chance to respond, she ducked away quickly grabbing an oversized stuffed Smokey the Bear, coffee cup, and some post cards. She quickly added two books on the area for good measure and headed for the cashier.

“Your total is $ 43.50,” the ranger cashier said carefully placing the bear into a gift bag.

Before Shelby had a time to pull out her wallet to pay for the purchase, Jack laid a gold Master Card on the counter. “This is on me.”

Shelby started to protest but decided to accept the gift. She would repay him later.

On the way out of the door, for good measure Shelby took a moment to grab every single brochure available and slipped them into her bag.

“There is a short half mile walk around the Ranger Station if you care to go there?” Jack offered. The look on his face told her he was still contemplating her ill-timed comment and nervous rebuttal.

“I’m eager to see the Parkway,” Shelby and hurried toward the vehicle.

When they got in, Jack pulled the bear out and sat him upright in the back seat. Cute. Shelby looked over her shoulder once to find the bear grinning at her, his little black lifeless eyes mocking her. She decided to ignore him too.

Leaving the Ranger Station minutes later, Shelby sent another prayer of thanks skyward. She realized she had a definite skill at lying.

Taking the soft turns around the base of the mountain, she gradually began to relax once more and enjoy the day.

“We have to stop here,” Jack said rounding a turn. He pulled behind several stopped cars along the roadway. Shelby heard the sound of Looking Glass Falls before she left the Bronco.

Cascading down the beautiful rock face, clear blue water rushed down the waterfall into a tranquil pool. A thick vapor mist rose from the base the fall. A safe distance from the waterfall, children and adults were climbing about the large boulders stopping occasionally to stare at the waterfall, as if completely memorized by the beauty.

Halfway down the rock hued steps, Jack stopped at a rustic overlook and swept her into his arms. His gaze was as soft as a caress.

The pounding sound of the waterfall filled her senses as he brought his mouth down, covering hers. She felt a delicious quiver of pleasure swell from deep within her to rise to the base of her throat. Her senses were reeling. This time, she felt her body arch into his, welcoming him with a giddy sense of sweet surrender.

With an undeniable hunger for him, she felt drugged by his clean scent, the powerful grasp of his arms around her and the succulent warmth of his kiss. Deep in an abyss of warming emotions, she heard a strange small voice calling out urging her to resist the honeyed taste of his mouth but her body and her soul refused.

Behind them thousand of gallons of water savagely poured over the cliff. It fell to the dark lagoon with such a force that shook the ground beneath them. A fine mist rose from the fall moistening their skins, lightly dampening their hair and filling their senses with an intoxicating blanket of sweet mountain air.

Though she had no right, she wanted to remember this moment and keep it safe in her heart. The sweetheart kisses stopped all too soon.

Holding her firmly, Jack said in a low whisper, “There is an old Cherokee Legend that if you kiss a girl at the Looking Glass Falls, you’ll have good luck all your days.”

Shelby frowned then laughed. Making no effort to move away from him, she nestled closer still. “Is that true?”

“No,” Jack said with a soft chuckle, “I just made it up. Forgive me?”

Shelby laughed again. She felt her full lips curl into a soft smile. She would forgive this man anything, would he forgive her?

“Okay,” she answered him playfully, “but only if you let me buy you lunch.”

“Well, where I come from a gentleman always pays for a lady’s lunch. This is my treat and my day. I’m enjoying it and you very much.”

Despite everything she knew was inherently wrong with this moment, she couldn’t help but feel lighthearted as they made their way back to the Bronco.

There were the usual tourists winding up the scenic drive to the top of the Pisgah, and they slowed as a car full of teens pulled into Sliding Rock Park. The smooth drive was slowed at The Cradle of the Forestry, the Park’s large visitor center.

The cars ahead of them turned in to see the exhibits, with a glance at his watch, Jack continued on.

Driving the winding curves toward the mountains crest, they sat enjoying the ride and each other. No words were spoken, none were necessary.

Shelby allowed the rich beauty of the roadway and the dark strength of the forest to fill her. She wanted nothing more, only to be at his side. It felt natural, safe, warm, and mostly it just felt right. What had begun as an ordinary day had turned into magic. She was afraid if she spoke, no matter how trivial the thought, the moment and the spell would be broken.

At the pentacle of the crest, the main road passed under a gray stone bridge. Jack took a right easing onto the Blue Ridge Parkway.

High along the crest, they could see for deep blue mountain ranges stretching for miles upon miles in endless waves of plateaus and distant ridges.

Built in the 1930s as a depression era public works project the Parkway stretched from Georgia to Virginia. Each overlook offered more dramatic and stunning vistas than the one before. The western North Carolina Mountains stretched long across the horizon in a never ending panorama of natural wonder. Rich, lush foliage stretched across the distant mountains like thick green carpet. Closer, high on the rim of the Blue Ridge there was unity between peace and sky.

A mile on the Parkway, they passed a small black and white skunk ambling peacefully along the roadway, oblivious to passers-by who had stopped to take his picture. Shelby smiled at the tourists who were intent on taking his photo for posterity and friends back home. As if were just too much an effort to lift his tail and leave an indelible impression on the annoying visitors, the little animal turned, looked at them once before disappearing into a thicket of rhododendron. Shelby knew small herds of deer and other forest animals were nearby but it was midday, and they were resting in cool, secluded hollows.

“Hope you are hungry,” Jack said at the first sign of the Pisgah Inn.

Shelby never learned its history or how this quaint little hotel, restaurant and gift store came to be on the Parkway. It simply sat, a haven for tourists who needed gas, a chance to rest on top of the world, or a unbelievably delicious meal of fresh smoked fresh mountain trout. Like the Parkway itself, The Pisgah Inn was open only in the Spring, Summer, and Fall. It was closed and inaccessible during thick winter snows that blanketed the region in Winter.

The overlook was breathtaking, and Shelby was pleased to find only a few cars in the parking lot of the small hotel and restaurant.

She did not wait for Jack to open the door, content to walk around in front to take his outstretched hand as he joined her.. She was beyond caring what was right, wrong, or proper, surely God would not begrudge her a few hours of stolen happiness. Feeling a bit like Cinderella, she made a pact to enjoy these stolen hours. Surely no harm would be permanent for her or for Jack.

Inside the Pisgah Inn, she wandered into the gift shop leaving Jack alone to study the menu just outside the restaurant’s entrance.

Glistening metallic and copper wind chimes dangled from the ceiling. A CD of mountain music filled the room. It was loud, too loud, Shelby thought, played so by a deviant clerk intent on either selling every item in the store or singularly driving away tourists from making any purchase. Shelby decided not to succumb to either choice; she wandered back into the lobby.

Looking over the posted menu, she could see into the restaurant. The glass windows provided a beautiful view of the mountain range.

In the far corner, something caught her eye. No, she thought instantly angered, someone!

Red Chandler, she thought cursing the almost 50 year old man sitting at a table across the room. Shelby glared at him and turned her attention to his companion, a pretty blonde in her late 20s. The woman was not his wife! She knew this because she had busted Red Chandler a little over a year ago for having an affair with his secretary.

She glared at Red. White fury was coursing through her veins and set every nerve in her body on fire. She could feel her fingers shake as she watched Red reach his hand across the table toward the buxom woman. The woman seemed not to notice the wedding ring still on his left finger. At that moment she wasn’t sure which she wanted to straggle first, Red or the floozy who was knowingly having a romantic lunch with a married man.

Shelby remembered Red’s long suffering wife, who despite indisputable proof of her husband’s infidelity had forgiven him.

Shelby almost jumped at the sound of Jack’s warm voice.

“The mountain trout sounds good.”

She was no longer hungry. She would have loved nothing better than to march over to Red’s table and demand to be introduced to his “friend”. Red Chandler’s look of surprise, however delicious that moment would be, would hardly be worth her own exposure to Jack.

Fortunately, Red was so engrossed with the blond, he scarcely noticed the waitress when she brought their salads.

Shelby glanced about it the dining room. It was nearly empty. Surely Red would notice her if she and Jack were seated. Having first hand knowledge of Red’s nasty confrontational scene a year earlier, she could only guess his reaction at seeing her now. With Jack close, she had no choice but to retreat, at least for the moment.

“Shall we?” Jack said with open invitation. His warm offer melted into a buttery smile and there were touches of humor around his mouth and shinning from his dark blue eyes. She looked up the powerful shoulders and back at a man who would always remain true to his personal code of honor.

“You know," Shelby said stammered, “it’s just all so beautiful outside, I‘d really love to have a picnic lunch. Could we just grab some sandwiches?”

“Silver, if it pleases you, of course! A picnic sounds like a great idea. If you go outside, there’s a beautiful view from the observation deck. Why don’t you wait for me there?”

Giving Red Chandler a last glance, she turned and headed out the door.

At the moment there was simply nothing she could do. Silently she set a date with Red. It’s you and me, ol’ buddy, ol’ pal, she thought, savoring that future moment. She walked outside, leaving Jack to give their order to the hostess.

As always the view was breathtaking and with good cell phone reception, Shelby took advantage of the moments alone to call Chris.

“I think I saw the stolen truck this morning,” she said reaching him then quickly repeated the South Carolina License Tag number.

“That’s it,” Chris said, “where?”

“At the Circle K on Highway 64 by Holmes Forest. Don’t ask me to explain but I also got photos of the driver and a passenger. As soon as I get them developed, I’ll get you copies.”

“Great,” Chris said, “say where you are now? You are coming in loud and clear.”

“I’m on top of Mount Pisgah,” she answered.

“That explains it. Say how are you enjoying the life of a romance novelist?”

“Its tough,” Shelby answered without hesitation, “and I have yet to write my first word. Good grief, on top of everything else, we pulled up next to Paul Jefferson, you know the Brevard Assistant Police Chief and I just dodged, Red Chandler and his latest at the Pisgah Inn.”

“Thought he learned his lesson the last time,” Chris commented. “Jack still doesn’t have a clue

as to who you are?” “Not yet,” Shelby said seeing Jack approach, “Look, Chris, I have got to go, talk to you later.” She ended the call and stuck the phone back into her pants pocket. “My agent,” Shelby explained again wondering how long she could carry that tale. Jack nodded, “A picnic basket will be ready in about ten minutes. Say, how about I take a

picture of you?” At that moment two young men in hiking gear walked out onto the wooden overlook. Borrowing Shelby’s camera, Jack tossed it to the taller of the two. “We’re here on our

honeymoon; could I get you to take our photo?” Shelby, the hiker and his friend laughed, "Absolutely.” “Pretty girl,” the young man said focusing the camera on Shelby. Jack snuggled closer to her

and gave her a wink as they waited for the hiker to take their picture. With an appreciative glance at Shelby, the hiker took the shot and with an all too knowing grin

to Jack, returned the camera. Shelby felt her cheeks flush to crimson as the two hikers went inside. “Our honeymoon?” Shelby blurted out, turning to Jack the moment the men were out of earshot. “Someday,” Jack said with an easy grin, “if you are lucky.” The heavy lashes that shadowed her cheeks flew up. She stared at in astonishment. Her voice

held a silky challenge as his words sunk in. “If I am lucky? Is that what you said if I am lucky?” Jack chuckled and managed to look sheepish. “All right, I meant if I’m lucky.” He grinned wickedly and Shelby felt her face color fiercely. As if right on cue, a young waitress brought out a huge plastic bag to the observation deck. Jack

gave her a generous tip as he took the bag from her. “Are we having company?” Shelby stammered looking at the two heavy white plastic bags. “No,” Jack assured her. He arched his brow and lifted the bags, “But, my dear Ms. Lake, we

need to eat while the food is still hot. I know just the place.” True to his word, they drove to a beautiful overlook. Leaving Shelby admire the view, he brought out a blanket, the cooler and the picnic from the Pisgah Inn.

With a gallantry that would have put Sir Walter Raleigh to shame, he laid out the blanket and began opening one container after another. Offering Shelby a plastic wine glass, a paper plate and some napkins, he grinned, and poured a glass of dark red wine.

“Good grief,” Shelby exclaimed looking at all the food, “did you order everything on the menu?”

Raising his glass in a silent toast, “Pretty much.”

Shelby couldn’t help but laugh, and raised her glass to join him. With a shy smile she asked, “What exactly are we toasting?”

“To this perfect day,” Jack announced dramatically swinging his glass toward the amazing view of endless mountains.

“I will drink to that,” Shelby said in a voice that was both soft and clear.

With a touch of the glasses, and soft expressions one for the other, they drank the sweet red wine. For a long moment, they looked solemnly at the other. His expression was soft but a light smoldered brightly in his deep blue eyes. She was captivated and for an instant his steady gaze sharpened. Her heart thundered erratically as his nearness kindled a dark smothering passion deep within her. She swallowed hard.

Watching him fill his plate, she stared with forbidden longing at him before she reached out to fill her own plate. Trying to concentrate on the lavish sandwich buffet before her, she daintily selected a half of the grilled chicken sandwich and some potato salad. “Jack, this is all so lovely, thank you.” She said her hands still trembling on her plate. She wasn’t sure she could swallow. “This is a perfect day.” Jack stopped eating. His blue eyes clouded with tenderness. “I think you would make any day

perfect.”

Stuffing her mouth full with chicken salad, Shelby felt her face burn and could think of no reply.

During the meal, Jack offered her more wine but she shook her head each time. Gradually, without rush, they began to clear the containers, leaving only the half full wine bottle between them.

“What are you thinking?” Jack asked his appetite, at least for food, sated.

For once she was pleased to answer him honestly. “That it’s nice to be with you. Jack, I’m thinking I like the way we talk and I like the way we don’t talk. It’s comfortable.”

Jack smiled. “Yeah, I like it to but it’s not so easy to simply trust again is it?”

Shelby looked at him and nodded slowly.

“I think its time we try, Silver, I think its time we get over old hurts and see if there is any happiness in the world for us.”

She could feel her eyes burn and sat her heart, her life, her soul exposed on this mountain side to him. His eyes met hers. She watched as the look in his eyes turned to wonder and then to something more.

“You should know, Silver,” he said softly, “that for the first time, in a long time, I’m finally able to open up to someone, someone very special.”

Shelby’s heart jumped within her. She felt her body stiffen and the blood began to pound in her temples. She couldn’t keep this lie between them.

“Oh Jack,” she cried, “there is something I have to tell you! I need to tell you.”

“Not now,” he said raising his hand to her. “Not now Silver. I know there is something you’ve been keeping from me. I know you want to tell me, feel you need to tell me, I have seen it more than once in your eyes. But right now, I don’t want to hear anything that would spoil this day.”

She bowed her head unsure of what to say or do.

“Good things take time, Honey,” he said reaching out for her hand. “It takes time to get over old hurts and memories of the past. Whatever it is that is suddenly troubling you, whatever it is, don’t worry. And Honey, if it takes a life time, I’ll make you trust again.”

With that, he rose and began to gather their discards and deposited them in a green trash barrel sitting near the edge of the overlook.

Shelby sat there looking at the blanket. Her emotions and conscience continued to war leaving her feeling sad and exhausted. He obviously thought she was harboring some old hurt. What would he say when he found out, everything about her was a lie.

Chapter 5

“Silver,” Jack said rejoining her. He reached out for her hand, and helped her to her feet. “Honey, you’re trembling. Are you getting a chill?”

“Am I?” asked Shelby. Why did he have to be so tender with me?

“I don’t think so,” Shelby lied, and added trying to keep her voice gay. “What’s that old saying? Someone walked across my grave. Something like that.”

“Are you being visited by old ghosts, honey?”

Shelby buried her face into his chest unable to tell this man the simple truth. The line between fact and fiction was blurred. She no longer trusted herself with Maggie’s ruse even if it was meant for Jack’s safety.

What was the truth? Where would she find it in this surreal day with this handsome man? Whatever she was feeling, she had to resist it. Her senses were reeling with years of hiding emotions and denying feelings so private and aching she had kept them at bay even from her heart. The pain of the past, the fleeting happiness of the present, and the fear of the future whirled inside her threatening to fracture her heart into pieces. The turmoil was overwhelming. She had to be fair to Jack. She had to be fair to her client. She had to be fair to herself.

Her world needed to stop spinning. Buried still within the hidden shelter of his arms was not a place she could stay. Not knowing what to say or how to say it, Shelby pulled away from him and she looked out across the mountain range for answers. She had vowed not to hurt Jack. It was a promise she meant to keep.

Any need for confession would just have to wait until she spoke to Maggie. This was not the right time to offer confessions.

“Silver, you can talk to me about anything, anytime,” Jack said softly pulling her to him. “I don’t know what is on your mind but whatever it is; I think we can work it out, if we give ourselves time.”

Shelby gave Jack a soft smile and hoped he would understand. She hoped he would understand about everything.

“I’m sorting out a lot of things,” she stammered trying to avoid yet another exquisite new lie. “Right now, I just need you to trust me.”

His eyes were soft, filled with understanding. “I trust you, Silver.”

She flinched at his comment and looked away before he saw more in her lying eyes.

“It won’t be long, Jack,” Shelby said trying to soften her escape from yet another tale to tell. Straightening her spine, “I promise Jack, it won’t be long at all.”

Jack reached down and squeezed her hand. His eyes were once again filled with blanket trust and understanding.

For a brief moment, Shelby felt cheered. Maybe things would work out, could work out. She returned his soft smile and his soft, ‘Okay’ eased her troubled heart.

Back in the Bronco, they continued the drive. The scenery every bit as beautiful, the sweet scent of mountain air as fragrant as the morning but somehow the magic had gone. Shelby knew it. Jack knew it. She could see Jack wanting to reconnect with her, but the lie stood between them. It was no longer Maggie’s lie, it was hers.

Shelby snuggled up to Jack and he seemed appeased with her closeness and confident that time would solve all things. Shelby could only hope this would prove true.

Driving north on the Parkway, they left the high mountains turning onto Highway 64 following the French Broad River toward Hendersonville. Jack once again assumed the role of guide and told her a bit more history of the area.

Nearing Hendersonville and the Colter house, Shelby raised up in her seat and smiled prettily at Jack.

“I’d really like these photos developed today. Would you mind stopping at Chamberlin’s at the corner?” Shelby asked her mind returning to the men in the photos. “I seem to recall they have a one hour special.”

“Of course,” Jack said all too happy to oblige her once again. “I’ll wait for you.”

Thanking God for small favors, she practically fell out of the Bronco and hurried into the drug store.

Karen Mosley had been standing by the open window and seemed to note that Shelby was with Jack Colter. Her stoic expression never wavered.

“Hey, Shelby, how’s it going” Karen greeted her as she entered the store.

“Hi Karen,” passing the film to the photo tech. “When can I expect them?”

Karen looked at the roll, her watch, and the other packages of film ahead of her. Shelby smiled. Karen’s eye sparkled as she accepted the film. Shelby could almost see Karen salivate wondering what secrets were hidden in the film. After all, Karen had developed some interesting photos of Hendersonville’s most prominent citizens in comprising romantic photo play with people other than their legally married spouse for her in the past.

With a grin, Shelby knew she could rely on Karen’s discretion. And, she could always count on having her film developed ahead of the others. After all, one never knew who might be captured on film by Hendersonville’s prettiest detective.

Karen looked back to Shelby. “About 40 minutes Shelby, do you need them sooner?”

“No, 40 minutes is fine. I’ll see you shortly.”

She was pleased. The photos would be back in less than an hour. She was also pleased to have her thoughts returning back to the job at hand and away from the handsome Mr. Colter.

Smiling at Jack as she returned, she said, “I’ll get my photos back today.”

“Good,” Jack replied and drove Shelby back to his Mother home.

Safe at Maggie Colter’s house, Jack sat back in the seat and looked at Shelby.

“I have to visit the store for a few hours but I’d like to take you to dinner.”

“All right.” At this moment, she wasn’t sure she could handle a romantic goodbye. Agreeing to dinner seemed an easy way out.

His dark eyes sparkled with pleasure and he leaned over for a short kiss.

With a laugh she scooted out of the Ford. She wasn’t sure she could bear the soft sensuality of yet another kiss.

Opening the back door, she scooped up the bear and her purchases. All too aware of his electrifying smile, she backed away as he reached out again for her. She was too quick and stepped away ready to scoot into the house, her lips aching for the touch of his.

“You owe me,” he said in a low friendly growl. She knew quite well what he meant.

Watching him drive away, she sighed emotionally drained.

“How was the Parkway?” Maggie came out onto the porch. Shelby shook her head. Maggie must have watched them drive up and had stayed discreetly behind one of her flowing white curtains.

Putting her fists squarely on her small hips, Shelby looked at Maggie.

“Maggie, I think this has gone far enough, we really need to tell Jack who I really am.”

“Oh not just yet dear, he’ll be awfully mad.” Maggie said in a sugary voice begging Shelby to understand.

Shelby pounced on Maggie’s words. “Maggie! Jack might be in serious danger. We have to tell him and to be honest; I’m not good at lying. He already suspects something.”

Maggie smiled and slowly folded her hands together at if Shelby was talking about the boogie man.

“Nonsense dear, I have every bit of faith in you. We will tell him at the right time,” Maggie said with a gleam in her eye. She completely side stepped the issue as she opened the front door. Motioning Shelby to come in, her face was a blanket of serenity. One would never guess her only child’s life was in mortal danger. Shelby frowned as Maggie urged her into the house, “Now tell me dearest, do you have another date? This is all so exciting.”

“We call it surveillance, Maggie,” plodding her way up the stairs and across the wood floor.

Maggie was brimming with delight. “The two of you had a good day. This is so wonderful. I really just feel part of it all.”

“Maggie, I really….”

“Let’s chat about this later, Shelby,” Maggie said in a rushed whisper. “I’ve got to run. I made you a key to the house so that you can come and go as you please. It’s on the dining room table.”

“Maggie, you shouldn’t be making a key for house guests?”

“It’s okay, Shelby, I trust you," Maggie replied lightly. “Besides you are bonded and licensed. I checked.”

“Jack wants to take me,” quickly Shelby corrected herself, “us to dinner. You are going to have to come with us Maggie. I insist!”

Maggie managed one more smile, a quick nod and with a good deal of gathering her things together, she took her purse, keys and some envelopes to mail. Before Shelby could say, I can’t do this any more, Maggie had left the house. Shelby had nothing to do but go upstairs to the guest room and deposit her belongings.

Before leaving the house she called Chris who was on duty. He agreed to meet her at Chamberlin’s. When she arrived, he was there waiting.

She waved hello and hurried into the drug store. Karen was noncommittal as she gave Shelby her change and her envelope. Shelby guessed Karen was disappointed in the developed prints. She was sure she wouldn’t be.

“That’s them.” Shelby said showing them to Chris in his squad car.

“Hum,” Chris drawled suspiciously looking at one half of Jack Colter’s blurred head covering half the shot. “I think I recognize this guy. It’s hard to tell with half his forehead head and nose in the frame. Is Jack’s nose really that big?”

To Shelby’s instant displeasure, Chris shuffled through the photos not bothering to hide his snicker at Jack’s various poses.

“Oh hush up,” Shelby said trying to keep her temper in check with her former partner. “Jack thought I was taking pictures of him. Now look beyond Jack, you can clearly see the two men by the truck, do you recognize them?”

Chris stopped teasing her and studied the two men in the background of the photos. “No, I don’t think I have seen them before. I’ll run these photos through the computer and see what we come up with.”

“You will call me, right?”

“I’ll call you,” Chris promised “but if we identify them, Shelby you know this will be police business here on out.”

“As always,” she assured him.

“Right!” Chris said with a grin. “So how is the life of a famous romance novelist?”

Thinking of Jack’s warm smile, his soft brown eyes and arms that made her feel safe, she answered, “More dangerous than you could ever imagine. I’ll be happy to go back to chasing cheating husbands.”

“Thanks for the pictures; I’ll let you know if anything comes up. Want me on tonight?”

“Go home and get some rest,” Shelby said, “I’ll be staying with Maggie Colter again tonight. The three of us will going to dinner. Maggie doesn’t know it yet but she will be coming with us!”

“Did I mention that my wife thinks you and Jack would make a really cute couple?”

“No, you didn’t,” Shelby retorted in a mocking tone. “Besides, Jack thinks I’m a romance novelist. I‘m sure he’ll hit the roof when he finds out that I’m a private eye hired to protect him.”

Chris’s shook his head and smiled. “See your point. Look, I’ll call you if I find out anything.”

“Thanks,” Shelby said as she left the police cruiser.

Returning to her Chevy Tracker, she sat looking at the other photos she had held in her hand. The pictures were taken of the skyline, the waterfall, and the men in the brown Ford but she saw only …Jack.

With her small fingers trembling, she traced the outline of his lips still remembering the taste of his lips. The soft warm fire reflected in his velvet brown eyes drawing and holding her attention. His fresh mountain scent lingered with her like a favorite perfume. She could still sense the protective feel of his hand and the hardness of his muscular chest. She carefully looked at each photo, one by one and yet her favorite was one she had taken when he wasn’t looking. His steady gaze to a distant mountain

range captured his intensity, his powerful athletic frame and his oneness with the untamed wilderness.

“You’re one handsome man, Jack Colter, " she said with a long wistful sigh.