

_Marrying the Billionaire_

The Brides of Hilton Head Island

Book 6

© 2017 McAfee Publications & Entertainment

Acknowledgements

Book Formatting: Champagne Formats

Editing: Apex Reviews

Cover Design: Magic Graffix

Sabrina Sims McAfee can be contacted via her website:

**www.sabrinasimsmcafee.com**

To my dedicated readers: once again, thanks for your support. Because of you, I'm able to fulfill my writing passion. From the bottom of my heart, I can never thank my readers enough.

Text SABRINA to 22828 to join her mailing list!
Table of Contents

Title Page

Copyright

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Eighteen

Chapter Nineteen

Chapter Twenty

Chapter Twenty-One

Chapter Twenty-Two

Chapter Twenty-Three

Chapter Twenty-Four

Chapter Twenty-Five

Chapter Twenty-Six

Chapter Twenty-Seven

Chapter Twenty-Eight

Chapter Twenty-Nine

Chapter Thirty

Chapter Thirty-One

Chapter Thirty-Two

Chapter Thirty-Three

Chapter Thirty-Four

Chapter Thirty-Five

Other Books

From the Desk of Sabrina Sims McAfee

About the Author

DARK CLOUDS drifted in the greyish sky. Wind ruffled the leaves on the trees. Peering out the window of his home office, Andrew cursed. Anger shook him to the core. Folding his arms across his chest, Andrew turned and glared at his young mistress.

"Please leave, and forget we ever met." Andrew's words came out icy cold.

Tears filled his mistress' eyes as she stood before him naked. Sighing, she ran her hand through her ash-blonde hair. "Please don't do this, Andrew. I never meant any harm. I didn't want to tell you because I knew how you'd feel. And I didn't want things to end between us."

Andrew rolled his eyes. __ Disgusted beyond measure, he inhaled a sharp breath and fought hard not to choke the shit out of her. How could she put him in this horrible predicament? He could go to jail for this.

_Jeez. She's a fucking kid._ A few moments ago, he'd found out that his mistress was a teenager. Not only that, the liar had stolen his money. Right beneath his nose, she'd gotten hold of his checkbook, wrote a check for twenty thousand dollars out to herself, and cashed it. Now his savings were depleted. Gone. How was he going to explain this to his wife? She'd never understand and would divorce him.

Andrew huffed. _This little trick fooled me. I was a damn fool for trusting her._

He snatched his mistress' panties off the sofa and tossed them in her face. "You lied! You said you were twenty-one, and you're sixteen! I don't want anything else to do with you!" He pointed toward the door. "Get out of my house now!"

Taking a step forward, she grabbed his arms. "Age ain't nothing but a number. I make you happy, and that's all that should matter...your happiness."

Andrew flung her hands from his arms. His hands shot up in the air. "You're a freaking kid! You lied and said that you were twenty-one! Had I known you were underage, I would've never gotten involved with you. And you stole my damn money, too! Robbed me blind!"

Shaking her head, she fisted her hips. "I know you didn't think having sex with me was going to be free."

Andrew's head jerked backward. "I bought you everything you wanted. You didn't have to steal from me. You're pathetic. Nothing but a cheap prostitute."

"Andrew, I'm sorry. But I needed the money for my brother. He wants a car and wants to go to college."

"You have a brother?! You said you were an only child."

She shrugged nonchalantly.

_Well, I'll be damned._ Andrew clenched his teeth. He should've known better than to date somebody he'd met over the Internet. But when things first started, although he was married, he was still lonely. Not that it was his wife, Bianca's, fault.

For a reason he couldn't comprehend, ever since Bianca had given birth to their twins, he'd lost interest in her. Perhaps he shouldn't have looked between his wife's legs as she pushed his sons out of her body.

Andrew shook his head as he quickly dismissed the notion. Nah. Bianca was a great wife. She was a good woman. She wasn't to blame for his marriage shooting straight to hell. He was the blame, and it was past time for him to start taking ownership of his wrongdoings.

_Bianca is the best thing that's ever happened to me. As soon as I get rid of this freak, I'm going to do everything in my power to fix my marriage. I was a fool. The grass ain't always greener, that's for sure._

Andrew narrowed his eyes in disgust as his eyes raked up and down her nude body. He felt nauseous. "Look here, you tramp...my wife will be home soon, and the last thing I need is for her to find you here. It's over between us. You make me sick. Put on your damn clothes and leave! Before I pick you up and throw you out!"

She pushed her breasts to his chest, cupped his face, then pecked his lips. "I love you, Andrew. It'll never be over between us. I'm pregnant."

Andrew's heart flopped.

Smirking, she grabbed his balls. Andrew shoved her so hard, she flew backwards and fell to the floor. He snapped. He jumped on top of her, wrapped his hands around her neck and started choking her.

Her face turned beet red as she clawed at his hands. "Andrew, stop," she wheezed.

Suddenly, Andrew realized what he was doing. His hands flew off her neck. He quickened to his feet. Pinching the bridge of his nose, his eyes misted. "Oh God. What have I done? You're pregnant. You really need to leave before I do something I'll regret." Jesus Christ, he'd almost killed her.

Gasping for air, she stood. She snatched her shirt off the floor, rolled it over her head, then put on her jeans. "It's never going to be over between us, Andrew. Never. You and I are having a baby, and you need to accept that." She shrugged on her sweater, then strapped her purse over her shoulder.

Andrew gave his head a hard shake. "This is my last time asking you to leave. If you don't, you leave me no choice but to call the police on you."

Her light blue eyes darkened. "You calling the police on me is the least of my worries. You'll be arrested for having sex with an underage minor. You'll be fired from your job. And you'll be registered as a sex offender."

Fuck. He'd gotten himself into a big, fat mess. This was a complete nightmare. How was he going to tell Bianca the truth? She'd never forgive him.

Andrew suddenly came up with a brilliant idea. "Look, I'll give you $5,000 to stay quiet about our affair and get an abortion."

Balding her fists, she glared at him. Her lips quivered. "Be quiet, Lizzy," she said, as if someone else was in the room with them. She fixated her gaze on the chair behind his desk, like she saw someone sitting there. "No one asked you to come here, so stay out of it. Forget you, Lizzy."

_Lizzy!_ Who in the hell was Lizzy? Andrew wondered, thinking she'd cracked the hell up.

His mistress pointed at the empty chair. "I don't care what you say, Lizzy. He loves me." She slapped her hands over her ears. "No, Lizzy! No! Stop saying that!"

Jesus Christ, this girl had split personalities and he never knew it. "You crazy bitch! Will you just please get the hell out of here?"

"I'm not going anywhere, and neither is Lizzy!" She reached inside her purse, pulled out a gun, and fired a shot straight into his heart.

Shocked, Andrew's mouth flew open. Clenching his chest, blood squirt through his fingers. He stumbled backwards and dropped to the sofa. _Oh God! She shot me! She shot me!_

Insanity leached into her eyes. She pulled a rag from her purse, wiped the handle of the gun, and walked over to him. "See, Andrew...you don't get to tell me when it's over." She slapped his face hard. "I do. We're through!" She slid his wedding ring off, put it on her finger, and held her hand up to his face. "You and I are bonded," she giggled, "forever."

Andrew's body turned cold. He struggled to breathe. He felt life slipping away from him. _Oh God. I'm going to die._ "Help. Me."

"Andrew!" his wife, Bianca, called out. "We're home!"

His mistress' eyes stretched wide. She placed the gun in his hand to make it look like he'd shot himself. "Dummy," she said, then hurried to the adjoining room.

_I'm going straight to hell_ , Andrew thought, closing his eyes. For good.

BIANCA ENTERED her home with her darling twin boys by her sides. Completely drained, she shut the door, then lowered her purse to the sofa. "Go upstairs and change out of your uniforms," she told the five-year-old twins.

"Okay," Logan and Landon said synchronously. With their backpacks on, they ran up the staircase and disappeared.

Sighing, Bianca placed her keys on the table against the wall. "Andrew!" she called out. "We're home!" She walked over to the sofa inside the living room and sat. When it took Andrew a while to answer, she guessed he wasn't speaking to her again. _We can't go on like this._

Bianca's marriage was on the brink of destruction, and she very well knew it. Last night, she and Andrew had gotten into a big argument over his refusal to make love to her, which was nothing new. Ever since she'd given birth to the twins, her _so-called_ husband seemed uninterested in her.

_Andrew doesn't love me anymore. He looks at me with such disgust. Maybe I should ask him for a divorce,_ she thought, feeling trapped. If she divorced him, how would she take care of herself and the boys? After the twins were born, Andrew had insisted that she become a housewife and take care of his every need. Too bad sex hadn't been one of them.

Suddenly, the twins appeared at the top of the staircase, came running down the steps, and hurried up to her. Both of them were breathing hard, like they'd just run a marathon. Waiting for them to catch their little breaths, she smiled.

"Mommy! Mommy! Will you play hide and seek with us?" Landon asked.

Every fiber in Bianca's body was tired from worrying about her marriage. "Mommy's tired right now."

Landon whined, "Please. Please play hide and seek with us."

Logan said, "Pretty please, Mommy. I'll massage your feet if you play with us." His cute eyes pleaded.

Because they were such good kids, Bianca often found it difficult to tell them no. "Okay. You guys win. I'll play hide and seek with you." Lord knows, she didn't feel like doing this.

"Yay!" they screamed.

Inwardly troubled, she touched their shoulders. "But we're only playing one time, because it'll be time to have dinner shortly and you need to get your homework done."

Landon tugged Bianca's hand and led her to the corner wall. "Close your eyes, Mommy, and count to one hundred." Bianca closed her eyes.

"No peeking, Mommy," Logan ordered.

Bianca placed her hands over her sealed eyes. "I promise I'm not going to peek. One, two, three..." She heard their tiny feet stumping up the staircase. "Four, five, six..." Once she reached thirty, she stopped counting and opened her eyes. How could she be playing hide-and-seek with her twins at a time like this? When her marriage was so obviously heading for divorce?

_I know Andrew heard me call his name when I came in. He won't even speak to me. He's so rude._

Bianca's nerves were wrecked. "Ready or not, here I come." As low as she murmured, there was no way the boys could've heard her.

Bianca walked to the foot of the staircase and paused. Now where could they be hiding? _The office._ She mounted the stairs, walked down the hallway, and entered the office.

Bianca's heart dropped. "No! No! No!" she screamed, rushing towards Andrew.

Andrew was sitting upright on the couch with a bullet hole in his chest, and a gun was in his hand. The back of his head was on the curb of the sofa, and his eyes were closed. Thin blood trailed from the cracks of his lips. Dark blood saturated the white shirt he had on. No sounds were coming from him, nor was he moving.

Fear gripped Bianca. Bile rose to the pit of her stomach. She covered his heart with her hand, trying to stop the bleeding.

"Andrew! Oh God! Andrew!" He wasn't breathing. Still hadn't moved. He couldn't be gone. She had to save him. "Wake up, Andrew. Please, baby. Please wake up. Why did you do this? Oh God, why?" She sobbed. Keeping one hand pressed to his chest, she reached over, snatched the phone off the end table, and dialed 911.

"911, what's your emergency?"

"Help me! He shot himself! He's dying!"

"Who's shot, ma'am?"

Bianca's lips quivered. "My husband. Oh God, he didn't have to do this. Things would've gotten better." She wept as she kept her hand pressed to his chest. "He's not breathing. Please hurry up and get someone here to help him."

"Help is on the way, ma'am. What's your name?"

Tears blinded Bianca's vision. For a second, she couldn't remember her own name. "Bianca," she finally managed to say.

"Mommy, what's taking you so long to find us?!" Logan shouted from another room.

"You said you'd play with us!" Landon hollered.

"Bianca, can you tell me what happened?" the dispatcher asked.

Bianca's whole body trembled. "He was so upset. He shot himself. Why? Why? Oh God, help me. I don't want my babies to see him like this."

"Bianca, where are your babies?"

"I can't let my boys see him like this." Bianca lowered her ear to Andrew's lips. Not a single sound or breath came from his mouth. She put two fingers to his wrist, then to his neck. He didn't have a pulse.

_Andrew's gone._

_He's dead._

_Dead!_

The realization caused Bianca's insides to shatter. She became weak. Unglued. Slightly disoriented.

Although she wanted to remain by her husband's side until the paramedics arrived, she couldn't. She had to protect her babies. She wiped her bloody hands on her shirt.

Just as she stepped out of the office, she spotted Landon and Logan coming out of her master bedroom. Unable to stop the tears from falling, she hastened up to them, tucked the phone between her ear and shoulder, then grabbed their tiny hands.

She escorted them back into her bedroom. __ "Boys...Mommy needs for you to listen good, okay?"

Landon nodded. "Okay."

"Mommy, why are you crying?" Logan asked.

Her heartbeat rapidly. _He killed himself. He committed suicide._ "I'll tell you later. But for right now, Mommy needs both of you to stay in her room. Okay? Go sit on the bed and watch TV." The twins climbed on the bed, put their backs against the fluffy pillows, then simultaneously crossed their legs. "Don't come out of here until I tell you it's okay. Do I make myself clear?"

They nodded in assent. "Yes, ma'am."

"Bianca, the paramedics have arrived. Please go open the door for them," the dispatcher announced.

She closed her bedroom door, jogged down the staircase, and opened the front door. The lights flashed on the ambulance parked on the curb. A police car sped into the driveway. One of her neighbors walking the dog paused near the stop sign across the street.

"Where is he?" the paramedic asked.

"He's upstairs." She quickened up the staircase, then into the office.

The paramedics rushed over to Andrew and began working on him as she looked on in total disbelief.

Andrew's whole face was purple. A death stench loomed in the air. This couldn't be real. Lord, please wake her up from this horrible nightmare.

Gloom shadowed the paramedic's face as he walked over to Bianca. _Please don't say it. Don't._ She shook her head.

Shaking his head, he touched her shoulder. "I'm sorry. But your husband is dead, ma'am."

Tears streamed from Bianca's eyes. Her body shook like a leaf. She dropped to her knees and screamed. Holding her face, Bianca felt like the earth had caved in and swallowed her whole.

THE ELEVATOR doors glided open. Sliding his hands into his pockets, Bane Balfour stepped off the ride onto the seventeenth floor of the hotel and stalked down the hallway towards his office. He'd had one long and hectic day. Now all he wanted to do was grab his briefcase and head upstairs to his penthouse, located on the twenty-first floor. He grabbed the doorknob, entered his office, and let the door slam shut behind him.

Loosening his tie, Bane crossed the room to his desk. _All I want to do is shower and watch football --_

Suddenly, the closet door swung open.

Bane flinched.

"Surprise!" Courtney shouted, jumping out into the open.

Bane shook his head in annoyance. What in the world was Courtney doing there? And how had she gotten into his office?

Bane let out an aggravated groan. "Jesus Christ, Courtney. You startled me."

Courtney licked her red painted lips. "Sorry. I didn't mean to scare you, cowboy."

_Cowboy?_ Nothing against cowboys, but he hated when she called him that. Damn, he wished she would've called him first. He was tired and just didn't feel like being bothered tonight.

Courtney's hazel eyes sparkled. She tossed her blonde straight hair over her shoulder. Hands on her hips, she strutted sexily up to Bane. She threw her long leg up on his desk, yanked up her skirt, and slid her panties to the side. Bane looked downward to find the words _kiss me_ written in red lipstick on her bald sex.

"So are you going to kiss it, Cowboy?"

Picking up his suitcase, Bane became irritated. He snorted. "Please don't take this the wrong way, Courtney, but I wish you would've called me first. I have an important business meeting tomorrow that I need to prepare for."

Courtney slid her finger in her canal, then placed it beneath Bane's nose. "Smell me. Don't I smell delicious? You know you want me, so stop acting like you don't." She laughed.

Normally, Bane would throw Courtney's hot ass up on his desk and fuck her brains out. But tonight his shaft remained soft. Lately, he'd been trying his hardest to put some distance between them. Although he cared for Courtney and thought she was a nice girl, the woman had some bad habits he just couldn't get used to.

For instance, Courtney was just too materialistic for his liking. And to say she was snobbish would've been an understatement. She was raised with a silver spoon in her mouth and acted like the world owed her something. He sure wished he'd known these things about her beforehand. Especially before he'd slept with her.

Bane shook his head. It was high time he ended things with Courtney. "I'm sorry, Courtney...you're a nice girl and all, but--" His cell vibrated. "Hello," he answered.

"May I please speak with Mr. Balfour?"

"This is he."

"Hello, Mr. Balfour. This is Cindy Calhoun. I'm calling to let you know that your application to become a foster parent has been approved."

Bane became overwhelmed with joy. "That's great news! This just made my day! When can I come pick them up?"

"You can come first thing tomorrow, if you'd like. The children are so happy to be moving in with you, and they can't wait to see you."

Bane was smiling so hard. "I can't wait to see them either. I'll be there first thing in the morning." Overjoyed, he hung up.

Courtney placed her hand on Bane's shoulder. "I take it you got approved to be a foster parent."

"Yes, I did."

Courtney tilted her head. "You know, I've been thinking."

_Uh oh._

She twined her arms around his neck. "I've been thinking that maybe I can move in with you and be your nanny."

_Hell no!_ Now that definitely wasn't happening. He'd never hire someone he'd slept with. Talk about conflict. If things didn't work out, he could be setting himself up for a possible sexual harassment lawsuit. And Courtney was definitely the type of person to sue someone. His father had worked his tail off to ensure _Balfour Hotel & Resort_ kept its stellar reputation and exceeded customers' expectations.

"Thanks for the offer, but I think it's best I hire a professional nanny with some experience." He politely turned her down.

Courtney pouted. "Ahhh. I was hoping I'd get a chance to spoil the little children, especially the girl. She's a teenager, right?"

"Yes."

"Just look at me." Extending her hands up in the air, Courtney turned around. "The girl could benefit from being around someone who looks as good as me and acts all prissy like me." _Here comes the snob._ "I could teach her how to dress. How to use proper etiquette. How to wear expensive jewelry and handbags and be decked down in the latest brand clothing. I'd teach her to be just like me."

_That's the last thing I want._ "There's more to life than materialistic things, Courtney."

"Not according to my mama. She says if a man really wants you, he'll show you by buying you the finer things in life. Like when you bought me this beautiful necklace," she said, touching the diamond pendulum sparkling at the base of her throat. "By the way, the manager at Tiffany's called to let me know the matching bracelet finally came in."

Bane shrugged. "Why are you telling me?"

"Why do you think, silly? So you can buy it for me."

Bane had had enough of this gold digger for one night. Courtney didn't have a clue of what he needed in a woman. His eyes traveled to the clock mounted on the wall. "I need to get a move on. Have a good night." Bane opened the door, then stepped to the side.

Courtney walked up to Bane. "You've been acting really weird lately. I hope you get rid of whoever she is...because Courtney don't play second to nobody."

Courtney's wrongful accusations caused Bane to tense. "I'm not seeing anyone else, Courtney."

She clenched his chin. "You better not be. I'd hate for Courtina to come out. You wouldn't like her."

Now that, Bane agreed with. He barely liked Courtney, so he was positive he'd hate Courtina. "Goodnight, Courtney."

Rolling her eyes, Courtney sucked her teeth. "Whatever!" she snapped before storming off.

Bane locked his office door, caught the elevator to his penthouse located on the top floor of the resort, and entered. Inside his home smelled like fresh lemons. He threw his briefcase on the sofa, then walked out to the balcony.

The moon glowed in the dark sky. Relaxing sounds of the ocean sailed into Bane's ears. He closed his eyes. Holding onto the rail, the gentle breeze blew against his face. Finally, the built up tension inside him faded.

Opening his eyes, Bane smiled. _I get the kids tomorrow._ His brother, Zeke, had introduced him to tutoring underserved kids at the group care facility. In fact, while volunteering at the group home, his brother had found his son who'd been kidnapped. When the time came for Zeke to bring his stolen son home, he'd adopted his son's best friend, too.

His nephews, Zavier and Jaheem, were such great boys. They'd brought so much joy into the family. Hopefully, his foster kids would bring that same kind of joy into his life.

A knock on the door interrupted Bane's thoughts. Leaving the balcony, he footed through the den, then placed his eye over the peephole. _You've got to be kidding me._ Bane grunted.

Against his better judgment, he opened the door. "I thought you went home--"

Courtney frowned. She waggled her finger at him. "You think your ass is slick, Bane." With her arms folded across her breasts, she stormed past him. __ "Where is she? Where is the trifling hoe?" She entered his bedroom. "I know you're in here, bitch!"

Anger coursed through Bane's veins. He didn't need this mess. He entered his bedroom to find Courtney looking under his bed. "There's no one in here. Now will you please leave?"

Courtney got to her feet. "Not until I search the closet."

As she tried to go around Bane, he blocked her. "You're not going to look in my closet."

"Yes. I. Am." When she took a step forward, Bane grabbed her arm. "No. You're. Not."

Her hazel eyes dulled with fury. "You no good dirty dog!" she screamed.

Courtney punched Bane in the face. He gripped his stinging jaw. Bane was livid! Keeping his temper in check, he clenched his molars.

Courtney slapped a hand over her mouth. "I'm so sorry, Bane. I didn't mean to hit you."

Without saying a word, Bane turned his back to Courtney and opened his closet. He gestured for her to take a look. She entered and began separating the hangers.

She turned to face him. "There's no one in here. Oh Bane, I'm so sorry," she apologized.

"Go home, Courtney," he grumbled.

Courtney's eyes widened. "Huh?"

"I said, go home, and don't ever come back. If you do, I'll have security arrest you."

"But I said I was sorry." Bane kept quiet. "Are you seriously going to end things between us just because I hit you?"

"Yes. Now leave."

Water formed in Courtney's eyes. "I'm not going anywhere." She flopped down on the sofa in front of his bed and crossed her legs. "And you and I are not breaking up. By the way, I think it's real stupid of you to become a foster parent. Why would a single billionaire want to do something as dumb as that?"

Fury charged Bane. Disgruntled, he lifted her into his arms.

"Put me down, Bane!" She kicked wildly. "I mean it. Put me down now!"

Bane yanked open the front door and placed Courtney on her feet. "Goodbye, Courtney."

"I'm calling the police on you and let them know you hit me!" _Say what?_ "I'm going to make sure you never get those kids!"

_Bam!_ Bane slammed the door and wondered what he'd ever seen in Courtney. If she made good on her threat and called the police on him, he'd make her life a living hell. And he meant that.

DARKNESS ENGULFED Bianca's master bedroom as she lay in bed crying her eyes out. Overwhelmed with grief, she shivered. She felt as if someone had drilled a hole in her heart and it wouldn't stop bleeding. Not someone, but Andrew. Andrew did this to her.

Her heart aching, Bianca rolled onto her side and steadily wept. Ever since her selfish husband had done the unthinkable, she hadn't been able to sleep. Or eat. Lord help her.

She couldn't get the images of how Andrew had looked after he'd shot himself out of her mind. His mouth had been wide open, and his heart just kept bleeding and bleeding. His face had been so purple. And oh God, why couldn't she forget how horrible he'd looked? Please help her forget. To remember the good things about Andrew.

Bianca pulled a tissue from the box on the nightstand and blew her nose. It'd been two days since Andrew had committed suicide, and she'd yet to make any funeral arrangements. After going to the bank yesterday and finding out he'd spent all their savings, she didn't care if he even had a funeral. He could be cremated for all she cared.

Bianca rolled to her back and glared at the darkness. _Let his mother give him a funeral._ Hurt and anger intermixed inside her system. __ Andrew had hurt her to the core. She'd never felt this kind of pain or betrayal before and wouldn't wish this on her worst enemy.

_God. This hurts so bad. I can't afford to take care of my babies._ How could Andrew do this to her? Forget her. How could he do this to his own children?

Bianca's bedroom door cracked open. "Bianca," her mother, Sandra, entered, "are you up, sweetheart?"

Bianca sniffled. "Yes."

She heard her mother's feet brush against the carpet as she made her way into the room. "It's 3 pm, and you haven't had anything to eat. I fixed you a nice lunch." Sandra drew back the drapes covering the window, then opened the blinds.

Sunlight spilled into the room and shined onto Bianca's face. She squinted. "I'm not hungry."

Sandra sat on the mattress beside her. "You have to eat, Bianca. If you don't, you're going to make yourself sick." Her mother reached for a tissue and dabbed the corners of Bianca's eyes. "Oh, my precious baby. I hate seeing you like this."

Bianca felt weak. With her head throbbing, she forced herself to sit upright. "It's hurts so bad, Mama." She hiccupped.

Sandra caressed her arm. "I know it hurts, sweetheart. I can't even imagine what you're going through. And I know you can't see it right now, but there's a light at the end of the tunnel, and things will get better." Her mother was right. She couldn't see how things were going to ever get better. Especially without an income coming in. "I think it's time you took the no visitors sign off the front door and started letting people pay their respect."

"Oh, Mom, I'm so embarrassed," she said in a sob. "If Andrew had died in a car accident or from an illness, then I wouldn't be so ashamed. The entire town is going to think bad of me. He killed himself because he didn't want to be married to me."

Shaking her head, Sandra wiped the tears falling from Bianca's eyes. "Don't you dare blame yourself. Andrew killed himself because he was a very selfish man. And I will not let you take the blame for his horrible actions. Another thing, no one's going to think bad of you. But if they do, you can't take it to heart. God is in control, and He will see you through this. He won't put more on you than you can bear. I know it's hard, but you have to be strong for your boys. Logan and Landon need you now more than ever."

Bianca nodded. "I know they need me. But how can I help them when I can't help myself? It just hurts so bad." She placed her hand over her heart. "It feels like I'm drowning, and no one is around to rescue me. Do you really think I'm going to be okay, Mama?"

Sandra's eyes misted. "Oh, sweetheart. It tears me up inside to see you in so much pain. Trust me, you're going to be just fine. It may take some time, but you will get through this." Sandra pulled Bianca into her warm embrace. "Now why don't you go take a shower, and then afterwards try and eat something." Bianca nodded. "Oh, by the way, I called the funeral home director and made an appointment for five today."

Bianca folded her arms across her chest. "I'm not giving Andrew a funeral."

Sandra gave her a precarious look. "Ah, sweetheart, but you have to give your husband a nice homegoing service."

She dragged her backhand over her nose. "After what he did to the boys and me, Andrew doesn't deserve anything nice." A part of her hated Andrew, and another part of her still loved his stupid behind. Why hadn't she been able to see how depressed her husband was? If she'd known, she would've gotten him some counseling.

"Thanks. I don't know what I'd do without you."

"I'm here for you, and I'm going to help you get through this." Sandra patted Bianca's shoulder, then left the room.

Grief lingered inside Bianca, causing her to feel unstable. She dragged herself out of bed and walked to the bathroom. Standing in front of the mirror, she gripped the counter and sobbed. _Just look at me. I'm worthless. I look absolutely horrible. My eyes are puffy. My hair is a mess. My heart is broken._

Bianca's hands trembled. She felt lightheaded. "I hate you, Andrew! I hate you!" Unable to look at herself anymore, she turned away from the mirror and slid to the floor. "God. Help me. Please, help me." She encircled her arms around her bended legs and closed her eyes. "Why, Andrew? Why? We could've worked through this." Exhausted beyond measure, all she wanted to do was sleep for a very long time.

"Mommy," Logan's cute voice entered her ears. Bianca raised her head to find him along with his twin brother standing in the doorway. "Nana said come eat with us, please?"

She nodded. "Tell Nana I'm coming."

"Is Daddy coming, too?" Landon asked.

Bianca's heart ripped in two. She'd already explained to them that Andrew had gone to heaven, but apparently they were too young to understand. She extended her arms to her babies. "Come here, you two." Logan sat to her left, while Landon sat to her right. With her arms draped around their tiny shoulders, she struggled not to cry. "Remember when Mommy told you that Daddy went to heaven?"

"Yeah," they said, nodding.

"Well, he's not ever coming back."

"But I want him to," Landon whined.

"Why can't he come back, Mommy?" Logan wondered.

Damn that Andrew. He'd left a dirty mess for her to clean up all by herself. "Daddy's not coming back because God has work for him to do in heaven. You see, he's an angel now," she stated, feeling as if she was lying. For all she knew, Andrew could've gone straight to hell. Ooo, Lord, this was something else to deal with. "And angels look after people and protect people. Your daddy is going to look out for you. And although you can't see him here on Earth, if you try really really hard, you'll be able to feel him in your hearts." She kissed the top of Landon's head, then Logan's. "Your daddy loves you. Always remember that." _No, that bastard didn't!_ her mind screamed.

Thinking back over her life, Bianca sat there hugging her boys. As much as she hurt, she couldn't fall apart. She had to be strong for her children. She was all they had now. And unlike Andrew, she loved them more than life itself and would do anything for them.

Bianca stood and peered down at her two heartbeats--Logan and Landon. "I'm going to take a shower. As soon as I'm done, I'll be downstairs to join you for lunch, okay?" Glancing up at her, Logan and Landon nodded.

When the boys reached the doorway, they stopped in their tracks. "Mommy, can I use your cell phone to call Daddy?" Landon asked.

Tears shot to Bianca's eyes as she nearly strangled on her spit. "I'm so sorry, Landon, but heaven doesn't have any telephones."

Turning his palms upward, he shrugged. "Well, how am I going to talk to Daddy, then?"

"When you pray at night, tell God to talk to your daddy for you," her voice cracked.

Landon ran up to Bianca and hugged her right thigh. "Don't cry no more, Mommy. It's gonna be okay."

Logan squeezed her left thigh. "I'll ask God to let Daddy be your angel, too."

Patting her son's backs, Bianca let the tears roll. After the boys finally left, she took a shower, got dressed, and forced herself to go downstairs. For lunch, her mother had prepared turkey sandwiches and homemade chicken noodle soup and sliced some fresh fruit.

Sandra slid her arm across the table and cupped Bianca's backhand. "Don't forget about our appointment with the funeral director."

Bianca nodded. "As soon as I get the boys dressed, I'll be ready."

"Abigail's coming over to babysit," Sandra informed her.

"You called Abigail?"

"Yes."

"Thanks for helping me."

Sandra patted Bianca's hand. "You don't have to thank me. That's what mothers are for."

"Thanks for lunch." She wiped the napkin over her mouth.

"Hopefully, you'll feel better now that you've eaten."

Just as Bianca scooted her chair back, the doorbell rang. She sure didn't feel like any visitors. "Hopefully, it's Abigail," she mumbled, walking through the living room. Taking a deep breath, she opened the door.

Abigail stood on the front porch holding a teal cake box from _SugarKanes_. One look into Abigail's sad eyes, and Bianca burst into tears.

Abigail hurried inside the living room and placed the cake box on the coffee table. "Ah, Bianca. I'm so sorry." She threw her arms around Bianca. "God don't make any mistakes." Her hand caressed her back.

_She doesn't know._ Abigail had no clue that Andrew had committed suicide. How in the world was she going to tell her? Bianca sat on the couch beside Abigail. "I can't believe Andrew's gone and he's never coming back. I wish I could go back to yesterday and stop him from leaving us."

Abigail rubbed her thigh. "I know you do. Andrew is in a better place. Even if he could come back, he probably wouldn't want to. Just think, he's in heaven, having himself a good time."

"I'm not sure he made it to heaven."

A baffled expression washed over Abigail's face. "Andrew was a nice guy. I'm sure he made it in and is with God."

Bianca sniffed. Pondering whether or not to tell Abigail the truth, she glanced over her shoulder out the window, then looked back at her again. "Abigail, I'm about to tell you something, but you have to promise not to tell a single soul."

Abigail raised her hand to chest level. "Scout's honor."

"Andrew..." Her words trailed off. She inhaled a deep breath, then swallowed. "He killed himself."

Abigail gasped. "He what? Oh God, no. Are you saying that he committed suicide?"

Bianca's nose burned from crying too much. "Yes. He committed suicide."

Abigail shook her head profusely. "This doesn't make any sense. Why would he do such a thing?"

"At first I thought it was because he didn't want to be married to me. However, yesterday I went to the bank and found out that all of our savings is gone. Apparently, Andrew spent it all. Not only that, he hasn't paid the mortgage in months, and the house is about to go into foreclosure. So I think it's a combination of finances and marital problems."

Abigail cupped Bianca's hands. "Ah, Bianca. Why didn't you come to me? Mike and I could've loaned you some money."

Bianca was mortified. Her gaze fell to her lap, then back up to Abigail's face. "I'm ashamed to say this...but I've never looked at the bills. Andrew didn't want me involved with our finances. I have no clue of how much debt I'm in. When it comes to paying bills, I don't even know where to start. The kids and I may end up on the streets."

"You're not going to end up on the streets. Mike and I are here for you. If needed, you can move in with us. What about the income you make from your florist? You don't think that'll be enough to sustain you for a while?"

"I barely make any money from the florist." Ever since she was a child, Bianca had loved gardening and had always dreamed of one day opening up a florist. While she was employed for a technology company, she'd even saved up enough money to open up a brick and mortar florist.

However, Andrew had insisted that she get pregnant, and when she couldn't get pregnant the normal way, she'd taken her entire savings and spent it on in vitro fertilization. Now she was broke and stuck with a makeshift florist attached to the side of her home. Most of the orders she received came through her website. Only a few were stemmed from customers walking into her actual store.

Speaking of her florist, she hadn't even bothered putting up the 'Closed' sign. "I'll be right back." She headed for the front door.

"Where are you going?"

"I forgot to put the 'Closed' sign on the florist door." Bianca opened the front door and exited. She rounded the side of the house and crossed the grass to her tiny greenhouse. The sign tacked to the florist's door read: _Bianca's Floral Designs._ When she pulled back the raggedy screen door, the hinges creaked.

Entering her home based florist, Bianca flicked on the lights. Tall greenery and beautiful flowers centered the greenhouse. Butterflies perched on leaves, while others flew about. God, she loved this garden. Too bad she was going to have to close it...permanently.

Standing behind the wooden counter, she grabbed a black permanent marker, a sheet of paper, and began writing. _Due to an unexpected death in the family, the florist will be closed indefinitely._

The chimes on the door chinked. Continuing to write, she kept her head bowed. "I'm sorry, but we're closed."

"That's not what your sign says," the gentleman's deep voice resounded throughout the room.

Finished with her sign, Bianca lifted her gaze. Shocked, she shifted her weight. Dear Lord, it couldn't be. But it was him. In the flesh, the most eligible and wealthiest bachelor in the universe was standing inside her florist. But why? she wondered, swallowing.

THE MOUTH of the pretty woman standing behind the counter parted as her eyes spread wide. Bane smiled inwardly. Yep, she definitely knew who he was. Perhaps she'd read about his family's hotel business or had seen him on the news. Or maybe she'd read about the time his brother Zeke had killed his brother Antonio. Hell if he knew. The one thing he did know was that he'd never laid eyes on her pretty self before. Because if he had, he would've tried his hardest to fuck her. Just look at that cute face of hers.

"We're closed," she said softly.

Bane's gaze roamed over her brown, beautiful face. Looking just as delicate as the flowers inside the store, jet black hair grazed her shoulders. Although her brown eyes were flat, hard, and passionless, there was still a gentle beauty about her. _She's beautiful._

Bane thumbed at the door. "The sign on your door says you're open."

She came from behind the counter and flipped the open sign to read closed. "Sorry, but I was just about to close." Seemingly upset, she folded her arms beneath her round breasts.

Bane stared into her pretty face. Her eyes looked red and puffy, like she'd been crying. _Now who would want to make a pretty thing like this so upset?_

Pleasant scents of flowers wafted up Bane's nose. "Shucks. It's my stepmother's birthday, and I was hoping since she absolutely loves your flowers, you'd make a beautiful floral arrangement for her. But since you're closed, I guess I'll have to go somewhere else." Turning to leave, he gripped the doorknob.

"Wait! If you have a few minutes, I'll be more than happy to make something for her." Bane refaced the striking woman who made his insides flame up. "Did you have anything particular in mind?"

He shook his head. "I don't know much about flowers. Just make her something big and pretty, and unique."

"I have some rare colored roses that are unique. But before I make the arrangement, I want to make sure you like them. Come with me."

Following her to the rear of the florist, Bane strode past the green plants centering the store. He fanned at the butterfly flapping near his face. __ Admiring her curvy body, Bane's cock tingled. _Damn, she has a nice ass._ Let him stop. The lady was probably married.

She opened the door to the storage area and led him inside the cool room. All sorts of flowers and greenery covered the counters and shelves. "Nice little setup you have here,"

he said, wondering if she was married.

"Thanks." She lifted the lid off a brown box, reached inside, and then held the most beautiful blue roses he'd ever seen up to his face. "A lot of my customers love these. They're called _Lily of the Nile_."

"They're beautiful. I'll take them."

"How many would you like?"

"How many do you have?"

"Three dozen."

"I'll take all three."

"They're very expensive."

Bane could buy anything he wanted in the world except love, and he didn't have the least interest in the crap, especially after the way things had ended with Courtney. "The cost doesn't matter. Just as long as they're pretty like you, I'm good," he flirted.

A tear slipped from her eye. Her bottom lip quivered. Ah hell, she looked as if she was on the verge of a nervous breakdown.

Before Bane knew it, he cupped her shoulders. "I don't mean to pry, but are you okay?" He hated when women cried. Well, all women except Courtney, that was. Courtney's behind was a piece of work.

She swiped at her eye. "I'm sorry. My husband died yesterday."

Bane was momentarily lost for words. His heart went out to the woman. Losing a spouse had to be the worst feeling in the world. Tempted to hug her, he caressed the balls of her shoulders. "I'm so sorry for your loss."

"Thanks." Another tear fell. Turning to face the counter, she snipped the stems, placed the flowers inside a clear vase, then tied it with a red bow. The arrangement looked amazing. _Leslie is going to love the flowers_ , he thought as she handed him the flowers.

"Nice job."

"I'm glad you like it. I'll ring you up upfront." He followed her back to the front of the store. In comparison to most stores, the cash register she used was outdated. "It comes to $230.64."

Bane lowered the flower arrangement to the counter, slid his wallet from his back pants pocket, and handed her five crisp one hundred dollar bills. "Keep the change."

Shaking her head, she tried to hand him three hundred dollars back. "I'm sorry, this is way too much. I can't accept this."

"Considering you were closed and opened up just for me, it's the least I can do." Slipping his business card on the counter with one hand, he hefted the blue roses with the other. "Thanks again for the flowers. I'll be praying for you and your family. If there's anything I can do for you, please don't hesitate to call me."

She picked up his business card and read it. "Thanks, Mr. Balfour."

He smiled. "Call me Bane." She nodded. "By the way, what's your name?"

"Bianca."

_Bianca. Hmm,_ _she's the owner._ "Bianca. That's a very pretty name."

"Thanks." Her voice was a soft whisper.

When he pulled open the door to leave, it fell sideways. "Shit, I broke the door."

Bianca came to stand beside him. "It was already broken. Don't worry about it."

"You're not just telling me that, are you?"

She slid her hands in her back jean pockets. "No. It's been broken for a while now. My husband was supposed to get it fixed, but I guess he got busy and forgot."

Bianca's nearness revved up Bane's testosterone as he gazed into her sad eyes. Although he'd just met her a few moments ago, he wished he could erase her pain and put a smile on her sweet face.

"Take care, Bianca."

"You, too. And thanks for the business."

"My pleasure." Straining to tear his gaze from hers, he left.

As Bane drove along the winding road towards the ocean, he couldn't get Bianca off his mind. The poor girl had lost her husband and seemed to be hurting something terrible. Maybe he should send her a flower bouquet or edible arrangement. Nah, he didn't know her well enough to do that.

Moments later, Bane steered his car into the driveway of his father's home, grabbed the blue roses, and clambered out. He mounted the steps to the porch and rang the doorbell. Would it be insensitive of him to call Bianca next week and ask her out for a lunch date? Well, it wasn't like she was married anymore. But then again, her husband did just die yesterday. _Bianca. Bianca. Bianca._ _I wonder if she has any children?_

The door swayed open. Leslie's lips turned upward as he handed her the blue roses. "Oh, Bane. These are beautiful."

"Happy birthday, Ma." Although Leslie was his stepmother, she was more a mother to him than his birth mother, named Katherine, had ever been. Katherine was one sick woman. Not only had she convinced his brother to kidnap his sister-in-law, she'd tried to kill his father while she was locked up in prison. Katherine was one evil, sick woman. For all he cared, she could rot while in jail. Quite frankly, as far as he was concerned, his real mother was dead.

Forcing thoughts of Katherine out of his mind, he kissed Leslie's cheek. "Well, I just stopped by to drop these off. Enjoy your birthday."

"Is that Bane I hear?" His father, Colton, came to stand behind Leslie. "I was just about to take Leslie out to eat for her birthday. Would you like to join us?"

"No, thanks. I'm on my way to pick up my foster children from the group care facility." Bane smiled.

Colton smiled. "I didn't think you were serious about becoming a foster parent. Are you sure about this? Kids can be a lot of work and take time away from your personal life. Not to mention some women can be stubborn and don't want to be bothered with kids that's not their own."

"As long as I have a fat wallet, I can always get me a woman to see things my way. Even if I have to pay her or she has to pretend." Bane laughed.

Colton and Leslie joined in on the laughter.

"You're right about that, son. But I tell you what..." Colton encircled his arms around Leslie's waist. "There's nothing better than finding yourself one woman to settle down with. Somebody that likes you for you, and not your money."

In regards to marriage, Bane knew he wasn't the settling down type of man. Which was too bad, because he had so much money and could buy women anything they wanted. For that matter, he could buy himself anything he wanted. But the one thing he couldn't buy was true love. He was convinced that God hadn't made a soul mate for him. Nope. He sure didn't.

Leslie said, "By the way, I see you got these flowers from _Bianca's Floral Designs_. I heard her husband died a few days ago. How did she seem to be doing?"

"Not good. While I was there, she started crying."

Leslie shook her head. "Mmmph. Mmmph. Mmmph. I sure hate to hear that. Andrew was such a nice man."

_I'm going to be Bianca's man no_ w, Bane thought, wondering why in the hell he had thought that. "I'm going to get going. Enjoy your day." Bane turned and headed for his car.

"I will. Thanks again for the beautiful roses!" Leslie shouted out as he slid inside his vehicle.

Thirty minutes later, Bane arrived at the group care facility. Anxious to pick up his children, he entered the building. He rounded the corner into Cindy's office, where Joshua and Katie were waiting for him.

"Hey, guys."

Clenching a backpack, Katie sprang from the couch to her feet and hurried up to him. Smiling, Katie's light blue eyes sparkled. She tossed her ash-blonde hair over her shoulder. "I'm so excited, I don't know what to do." She put on her backpack.

Resembling a male version of Katie, Joshua stood. "Me, too. I can't wait to get the hell out of here. This place is shitty."

Cindy stated, "Josh. Watch your language."

Josh shrugged. "Come on, Ms. Calhoun...you and I both know that living in this place is like living in slum city."

Katie slapped Joshua's back. "Just be thankful that we're finally getting out of here."

Josh nodded. "I am thankful, stupid."

Katie stuck her tongue out at Josh. "Dummy."

"Freak!" he retorted.

Katie gasped.

Bane positioned himself between the two teenagers. "All right, you two. Enough is enough. Rule number one is no name calling. Do I make myself clear?"

"Yes, sir," Katie said, pouting.

"Yes, sir," Josh replied. "I'm sorry, Katie."

"I'm sorry, too. Love you."

"Love you back."

Whew. What a way to start off. Bane signed the paperwork, left Cindy's office, then walked outside to his Bentley.

"Holy fucking shit! Is this your ride, man?" Josh inquired.

Katie slapped Josh on the back of his head again. "Stop cursing before Bane changes his mind about us." She sucked her teeth.

Chortling, Bane shook his head. "Katie...let's get one thing straight...there's nothing you can do to make me change my mind about raising you. I'm a man of my word. However, Josh...you're going to have to work on the cursing. Okay?"

"Sorry for the language, man. But it's just that, I ain't never seen no car like this in person. Ain't never rode in one either."

"Well, if you act right, I just may buy you a car after you graduate. Before you go to college."

Laughing, Josh nudged Bane's arm. "Stop playing, man. You for real?"

"If you make good grades, be respectful to adults and your peers, and do what you're told...I just might."

Josh's smile widened. "I'm going home tonight and start studying my ass...I mean my behind off."

Katie smiled. She opened the passenger side door. "You don't have to buy me nothing, Bane. I'm just thankful to be getting a new home," she said, sliding into the front seat.

Bane buckled his seat belt, cranked the engine, and pulled out onto the road. Filled with joy, he glanced over at Katie. Bopping her head to the music, she smiled back at him.

Bane glanced in the rearview mirror at Josh, who was staring out the window with a huge grin on his face. While he'd done a lot of nice things in his life, Bane concluded that this was by far the best. In the mood for doing something else nice, he pushed a button on his dashboard and dialed his secretary. The speaker phone rang out loud so everyone inside the car could hear it.

"How may I help you, Bane?" Gretchen answered.

"Hi, Gretchen. A friend of mine needs a new door for her business. I want you to look online and price some very nice doors for me."

"No problem. Is this for Courtney?"

Bane laughed at his nosey secretary. "No, Gretchen. This is for a friend of mine named Bianca."

"I'm on it, Boss."

"Thanks, Gretchen." Bane tapped the button on his dashboard, ending the call.

"Who's Bianca?" Katie asked with a strange look on her face.

"It's his girlfriend, stupid," Josh spat from the back seat.

Katie glanced over her shoulder at Josh. "You don't know that, retard."

"I know what I'm talking about, Angelina-dumb-lee."

"Well, I rather be Angelina-dumb-lee than be shaped like the Pillsbury dough boy." Bane inwardly laughed. Katie refaced the front. "Uugh. He thinks he's so smart."

Josh replied with, "I am smart...Katie-wannabe-Perry. Trust me...he wouldn't be buying Bianca a new door unless he was boning her."

"I'm not boning her." The words accidentally rushed from Bane's mouth, and he immediately wished he would've used more appropriate language.

An image of the way Bianca's ass had looked earlier today popped into his mind. It'd been so round and plump. He could imagine dragging his tongue along the crack of her butt, then dipping in her sex. Mmmm.

Bane's heart jostled. _I'm gon' fuck Bianca, or die trying. Maybe I'll make a sizeable donation towards her husband's funeral, too. That's the least I can do, considering I'm feening for a dead man's wife._

AT THE sound of hearing the name Bianca, Katie's heart lurched. She peered out the window of the car and stared at the blue sky. Holy freak, she sure hoped Bane and Andrew's Bianca wasn't the same person. There's no way her luck could be that bad. Or could it?

Katie's mind flashed back to the day she'd killed Andrew. She regretted having shot Andrew and prayed that she wouldn't go straight to hell for it. _I wonder if God has forgiven me for killing Andrew? Considering that things went through with Bane, he must have. God, because You've been so kind to me, I promise I'll be a good girl. I'm going to make sure I treat Bane real nice. And I promise to not kill anybody else._

Out of nowhere, Katie's subconscious, named Lizzy, burst into thin air and sat beside her. Nose pierced and short black hair, Lizzy had on a leather shirt and matching pants and looked like a biker today. Because the two of them had so many secrets, Katie was glad that no one, other than her, could hear and see Lizzy.

Lizzy's face scrunched. _I can't believe you're sitting here acting like you don't have a care in the world._

Katie shrugged _. Why should I?_

Lizzy rolled her eyes. _Didn't you just hear him say he's having Bianca's door fixed?_

_Yeah, so what?_ Katie wondered.

_Are you that stupid? What if Bane's talking about Andrew's wife, Bianca?_

Katie looked at Bane, then back at Lizzy. _I highly doubt that. It's more than one Bianca in the world, you know?_

Lizzy threw her arms up in the air. _Don't mess it up for us, Katie_. _This is a dream come true. We're going to be living the life of the rich and famous._

Katie squinted her eyes at Lizzy. _Me mess it up? You're always the one messing things up for us._

Lizzy waved her off. _How so?_

Katie couldn't believe how Lizzy was playing dumb. _Are you serious? You were the one that told me to shoot Andrew. So I did._

Lizzy cracked up laughing. _I was just playing._

Katie rolled her eyes. _You were not playing. When you told me to kill Andrew, you were dead serious._

Lizzy poked out her lips. _Well, as far as I'm concerned, Andrew got exactly what he deserved. He was two-timing you and his wife._

"I know that," Katie said out loud.

Lizzy slapped Katie's thigh. _Be quiet, fool._

Gripping the steering wheel, Bane glanced over at Katie. "Did you say something, Katie?"

Katie blinked. Oh shoot, Bane had heard her. She stared at Lizzy.

Clenching her teeth, Lizzy kicked her foot. _I can't do your careless ass right now._ She vanished.

"I was just rehearsing a line for a play I'm thinking about auditioning for at school," Katie lied.

"Pay my sister no mind, she can be a nutcase sometimes," Josh stated from the back seat.

"Takes a nutcase to know a nutcase," Katie came back with.

"I got nuts, but they ain't in no case."

Katie gasped. "You're so nasty, Josh."

Josh snarled. "And you're so crazy."

Bane sighed. "I didn't know the two of you could argue so much." Putting on his blinkers, he merged into the right lane. Bane's luxurious hotel came into view. Excited, Katie's heartbeat increased.

When Bane steered the car into the lot of the fancy hotel, Katie felt like she was the movie character named Annie, and she'd never been happier. When he drove up to the valet, some man dressed in a black uniform opened the passenger side door for her.

The man extended his hand to her. "Welcome to Balfour Hotel & Resort," he said.

Katie's insides beamed. She looked in the rear of the car at Joshua, then looked back at the strange man. Wow. Is this how rich people lived?

Katie grabbed her backpack, placed her hand into his, and stepped out onto the pavement. Her eyes traveled up to the top of the tall building. The hotel had to have at least thirty floors. Maybe more. The day before her mother had been arrested for drugs, she'd taken Josh and her to a filthy motel, and it wasn't anything like this. Not even close.

The clear doors of the hotel glided open. Walking between Bane and Josh, Katie entered the fancy building. A pineapple scent greeted her. As she headed for the elevator, her sneakers squeaked against the shiny marble floor. Wow...she couldn't believe this was her new home.

"You really live here, man?" Josh asked Bane.

A light glowing in his eyes, Bane nodded. "Yep."

"With all the money you have, why don't you have a house?" Josh asked.

"I just never had the desire to own a house. Besides, the hotel comes with a lot of perks and amenities."

They stepped onto the elevator, and the doors shut.

"Like what?" Josh asked.

"I have a butler, a maid, a perfect view of the ocean. I can dine at the restaurants inside the hotel anytime I feel like it. Or if I want, I can order room service."

"I think I'm going to love it here," Katie sang in her infamous Annie voice as she exited the elevator. She was in complete awe as she headed for Bane's home. Emerald carpet covered the floor in the hallway. Huge pictures hung on the walls. And these big, gigantic statues were situated throughout.

"Welcome home." Bane slid the keycard over the pad. Stepping to the side, he gestured for Josh and Katie to enter.

Katie's mouth fell wide open. "Oh. My. God."

"You live here?" Josh inquired.

"I sure do," Bane answered.

A white sofa centered the den area across from a stone fireplace. And a big, gigantic TV was on the wall. The freaking wall! Across the room, the sliding glass door was open and Katie could hear the sounds of the ocean. To her right was the kitchen. Beyond it was a spiral staircase that led to the upstairs.

Josh's head jerked back. He looked at Bane. "Man, this place is two-story?"

Bane laughed. "Yes. Katie and your rooms are upstairs. Come...let me show you around."

"How big is this place?" Katie wondered.

"Four thousand square feet," Bane confirmed.

Josh seemed thrilled. "I see why you don't have a regular house. You don't need one. This crib is phat."

"Exactly." Bane proceeded to show them his master bedroom, the balcony, and his office.

Feeling like a princess, Katie's hand glided along the railing as she ascended the staircase to the second floor. The upstairs had a loft, a game room, and two bedrooms. One for her, and one for Josh.

Bane showed them Josh's bedroom first. Josh cursed. "Get the fuck out of here! I have my own bathroom!" Josh ran and jumped on the bed.

_Josh needs to wash his mouth out with soap,_ Katie thought, dying to see her room.

Bane placed his hand on Katie's back. "Are you ready to go see your room?"

Leaving Josh's room, Katie nodded. Walking along the hallway, she couldn't wait to see where she'd be sleeping every night. At the orphanage, she'd had to share a bedroom with three other girls, and they were junky, nasty, and disgusting.

When Katie entered her room, a huge smile came to her face. Happiness filled her heart. A pastel yellow painted the walls. The grey headboard on her bed was high and had big diamonds in it. A yellow comforter covered the mattress. The grey and yellow decorating pillows were made of fur. On the wall, silver letters spelled her name--Katie.

Amazed, tears came into Katie's eyes. She threw her arms around Bane's waist. "Thank you, Bane. I'm going to make you so proud of me. I promise to be good. I promise."

"You're already a good girl, Katie. Please don't thank me. Everything I do for you and Josh comes from my heart." Bane pried himself away from Katie. "Now if you'll excuse me, I have some important business to take care of. If you guys get hungry, there's a menu in the kitchen downstairs with a number to room service. Order whatever you like."

"Who's going to pay for it?" Katie wondered.

Josh pointed at Bane. "He is, bird brains!"

"Shut up, chicken head!"

"Your mama is a chicken head!"

"I agree!" Katie screamed.

The room fell silent.

Suddenly, all three of them burst into laughter.

Later on that evening, after Katie and Josh had ordered room service and she'd showered, she lay in bed staring at the ceiling. The sheets on the mattress felt so soft against her skin. Wait until the kids at school saw how she was living. They were going to be so jealous, especially that conniving bitch Jada. Gosh, she hated that girl.

Every time she turned around, Jada was going around school telling lies. Talking about she killed her own father. Well, she did kill him. But still, Jada had no right to keep reminding her and throwing it up in her face. She should've never confided in Jada about her past.

Katie aimed the remote at the television and clicked the power button. _Pretty Little Liars_ was on. She pulled the covers up to her chin. "I'm so sleepy," she said on a yawn. Blinking, her lids closed and she drifted to sleep.

_The front door to Katie's house flung open. Wearing a pair of faded jeans and black torn shirt, her father stood beneath the arch with a mean look on his face. Carrying a beer bottle, he stepped over the threshold, then slammed the door closed._

_Terrified, Katie jumped off the couch and ran into the kitchen where her mother was. Every time her dad came home drunk, he beat her mother up, but Katie wasn't having it today. She was sick and tired of him, and it was time somebody took up for her mother. And since Josh was too big of a punk to do it, she guessed she had to._

_"Where's my got damn dinner, Norelle?" her father shouted._

_Norelle stood at the stove frying fish. "I'm in here, Teddy. Dinner is almost ready."_

_"I saw him. He's drunk, Mama. You know what happens when Daddy gets drunk. Why don't you go next door to Theresa's house until he sobers up some?" Katie suggested._

_Norelle swallowed. "The last time he beat me, we had a long talk and he made a promise that he wouldn't do it again."_

_"Was that before or after he'd sobered up?"_

_Teddy cleared his throat. "Are the two of you in here talking about me again?"_

_"No, Daddy. We're not talking about you."_

_Teddy glared at Norelle, then at Katie. Katie rolled her eyes at her dad. "You know what, Norelle...our yungin' here seems to have a problem with me."_

_Norelle rubbed Teddy's arm. "Ah, baby, Katie loves you. Don't you, Katie?"_

_Without responding, Katie turned to walk away._

_"Don't you walk away from your mammy, girl. She asked you a question." Teddy gripped her elbow, seizing her. Katie turned to look at her daddy. "Do you or don't you love me?"_

_Katie felt like spitting in her daddy's face. "I'm not going to answer that."_

_Teddy gulped the rest of his beer. Angered, he threw the empty bottle at the wall, breaking it. Right when he raised his hand, her mother jumped between them._

_Norelle was trembling. "While you might hit me, I'm not going to let you hit my daughter."_

_"Shut up, woman. And get out of the way."_

_"Go to your room, Katie," Norelle said._

_Rolling her eyes, Katie turned to leave._

_Teddy barked, "You two make me sick!" He picked up the pot of grease on the stove and threw it in her mother's face._

_Norelle hollered. Seeing her mother withering like a fish on the floor, Katie grabbed a knife, ran up to her father, and sliced his stomach in two._

Katie's eyes sprang open. She was drenched in sweat. Her heart beat rapidly.

Suddenly, Lizzy appeared in bed beside Katie with a wary look on her face. She had on a pink nightgown and black satin cap. Paper towel in hand, Lizzy dabbed at Katie's perspired face. _Oh Katie, you were having that horrible nightmare again. You've got to get a grip. If you don't, we're going to end back up at the psych ward. And the mental institution makes the orphanage look like heaven._

Katie sat upright. _Stop being so negative, Lizzy. We're not going back to the mental institution._

Lizzy shook her head. _I'm not being negative. Nobody ever wants the teenagers at the orphanage, so act right. Stop having those nightmares. Stop talking to yourself. Okay?_

Katie nodded. _Okay._

Knuckles rasped on the door. Lizzie bolted out of bed and hid in the closet.

"Come in," Katie said, thinking it was Josh.

Her bedroom door cracked open, and Bane stood in the doorway. "I just came to say goodnight."

Katie smiled. "Goodnight." _He loves me._

Bane smiled at Katie, then closed the door.

Glee filled Katie. Still smiling, she slid beneath the covers. For the first time in her life, she had the kind of father she'd always wanted--a kind, gentle, caring man. Grabbing the remote, she clicked off the television and smiled. It'd been a while since she'd been this happy, and it was all because of her new daddy. "I love you, Bane." Shortly thereafter, she drifted off to sleep.

ANDREW'S FUNERAL had been short and to the point. After everyone left the cemetery, people drove back to the church and gathered inside the banquet hall for the repast. Members of district three had prepared fried chicken, collard greens, candied yams, a baked ham, roast beef, green beans, and all kinds of assorted desserts. Yet as good as the food looked, Bianca didn't have an appetite.

Sitting at the long table up front, Bianca's eyes roamed around the room. Grief whirled around inside her. Over the last week, she'd cried so much, she didn't have any tears left, which was a good thing because she needed to be strong for her boys. She glanced at Logan to her left, then at Landon to her right. She was all these two precious angels had. _It's just me and the boys now._

Dressed in black suits, Leslie and Colton Balfour walked up to her. "Colton and I are about to leave," Leslie said. "Please don't hesitate to call us if there's anything we can do for you."

"I won't. Thanks for coming."

"We'll be praying for you," Colton stated.

"Bye, Logan and Landon," Leslie said, waving at the kids. "You boys be good for your mother, okay?" Chewing on their food, the twins nodded. "Oh yeah, before I forget...my son-in-law brought me the blue roses you prepared for me. I really liked them. They were absolutely beautiful."

Bianca managed to smile. "I'm glad you liked them."

"As soon as the florist opens back up, I'm going to stop by and order some for my best friend's birthday."

Bianca found it hard to tell Leslie that she was closing the florist. "I'll be opening back up soon," she said, knowing it was far from the truth. Because Andrew had exhausted their savings, she had no choice but to close the florist. Permanently.

And if that wasn't a disaster, Andrew had left her in so much debt, she was going to have to sell her house and move back in with her parents. And being that he'd committed suicide, the insurance company had denied the claim for the life insurance policy she had on him.

Andrew had royally screwed up her and the boys' lives. How could he kill himself and leave them with nothing? Absolutely nothing. Earlier this week, she'd planned on pawning their wedding rings in exchange for cash, but she couldn't find Andrew's ring. Maybe he'd lost it and never told her.

If it hadn't been for some anonymous stranger donating money towards his funeral, she wouldn't have been able to give Andrew a proper burial. Not that she cared, but still.

Her girlfriend Abigail, who was sitting on the other side of Landon, leaned forward and glanced sideways at her. "Are you ready to go back to the house?"

Mentally drained, Bianca's head throbbed. "Yes. I'm so tired, Abigail."

"I know you are. Let's go."

"But there's people still here."

"Well, they can't expect you to stay here all day. It's been two hours."

"So you think it's okay if I leave?"

Abigail stood. "Yes, it's fine. Just go hug everyone, thank them for coming, and tell them goodbye. I'll go tell Todd we're leaving."

Bianca made her way around the room, hugging and thanking her guests. Grabbing her twins' hands, she walked outside and climbed in the back seat of Todd and Abigail's car. On their drive to her home, the inside of the car was quiet. Eventually, she and the boys drifted off to sleep.

"Bianca." At the feel of her shoulder shaking, Bianca opened her eyes to find Abigail looking in her face. "Wake up. You're home."

She exited the car. "I don't want to be alone. Will you come inside with me?"

There was empathy in Abigail's eyes. "Of course I will. If you need me to, I can stay the night."

Todd pulled open the back door for Logan and Landon, and they climbed out. "Unless you ladies want some girl time alone, I'll be more than happy to stay and help with the boys as much as I can."

Todd's generosity warmed Bianca's heart. "I'd love it if you'd stay, Todd. I can use the extra help while I get some rest." Maybe with Abigail and Todd in the house, she could sleep better and stop having those horrible nightmares. Every time she closed her eyes, memories of a dead Andrew came into her mind.

Bianca inserted the key in the front door and entered. Right away, her quiet house didn't feel the same. It felt haunted. Like Andrew's spirit was in there. Of all the places to kill himself, she wished he hadn't done it in their home. She wished he hadn't done it at all.

Logan touched Bianca's thigh. "Mommy, can we go play the PlayStation?"

"Sure. But change out of your suits first."

Landon asked, "Mommy, are they going to put Daddy's castick in the dirt?"

"Yes. And it's called a casket."

"But I don't want him in the dirt. I want him here with me," Landon cried.

Logan burst into tears. "Me, too. Why can't Daddy come back, Mommy?"

_Because Daddy was selfish and killed himself,_ Bianca thought but never planned on telling her boys the truth. They were too young to understand. She'd lied and told them that Andrew had had a heart attack.

Bianca stooped down in front of her twins. Leveling her gaze, she cupped their hands. "I want Daddy to come back, too. But God wants him to stay in heaven. Heaven is such a beautiful place. He's probably walking along the golden streets, or sipping on some grape juice, or doing his angel duties." She reached up and wiped tears from their eyes. "I know you're hurting, and Mommy's going to do everything she can to help you get through this. I love you."

"Can we sleep with you tonight?" Logan asked.

"Pretty please?" Landon put his hand in a prayer symbol.

"I'd love for you two to sleep with me. We can even make some popcorn and watch a Disney movie in bed together." She kissed their cheeks, then stood.

Todd smiled at the boys. "Do you mind if an old man like me plays the PlayStation with you?" They shook their heads no. "Last one upstairs plays last." The boys took off running upstairs. Allowing them to get a head start, Todd mounted the staircase behind them.

Bianca went upstairs, took a long nap, and by the time she woke up, it was four o' clock. When she entered the kitchen, Abigail was standing at the sink washing dishes. "How was your nap?"

She'd finally taken the depression medication the doctor had given her. "I slept so hard, I was drooling. I feel like I can sleep for days. I'm sooo tired, Abigail."

"I'll tend to the boys, so sleep as much as you like."

"Thanks."

The timer on the dryer buzzed.

"I started the laundry," Abigail said.

"Oh, Abigail. I could've done the laundry."

"I know. But since you were sleep, I figured I'd help out."

"Thanks." Bianca headed for the laundry room. A stack of Andrew's dirty shirts lay on top of the dryer. She lifted his shirt to her nose and sniffed. Andrew's scent smothered the fabric. Her heart aching, she placed his clothing in the washer. She had no idea what she was going to do with his clothing. Or his shoes. Or his jewelry. As broke as she was, she'd probably sell it.

As Bianca removed her pajamas from the dryer, she came across a pair of panties that didn't belong to her. She held the pink thongs up toward the light. Who on Earth did these belong to?

Bianca returned to the kitchen and walked up to Abigail. She held the thongs up to Abigail's face. "Are these yours?"

Abigail shook her head. "Oh God, no. I haven't worn thongs in years. They're not yours?"

"No."

Abigail's brows lifted. "Are you sure?"

"Of course I'm sure, Abigail. I don't wear thongs." A moment of silence passed. She sighed. "I think Andrew was having an affair, but I'm not sure."

"I can't do this anymore. There's something I need to tell you." Abigail tugged Bianca's hand and led her over to the dining room table, where they both sat. "Todd told me something, but he doesn't want me to tell you. But you're my best friend, and I think you need to know."

"Know what?" she asked, fearing the answer.

A look of despair was on Abigail's face. "According to Todd, Andrew told him he was having an affair."

Bianca's heart grappled. "With who?"

"I don't know. He said that Andrew never gave him her name."

"That explains why I can't find his wedding ring. He must've taken it off and lost it." A sudden realization hit her. "He brought his mistress to my house and probably screwed her in my bed," she cried. "He gave her all our money. Every last dime. All of it."

"I'm so sorry, Bianca. You're such a beautiful woman and shouldn't have to go through this. You'll find somebody else one day."

"I don't won't anybody else. I wanted Andrew. I wanted my boys to grow up with their father. A father that loved them more than anything in the world. Oh Abigail, what am I going to do?" she sobbed. "I'm all alone."

Abigail started crying. She wrapped her arms around Bianca's shoulders. "You're not alone, Bianca. I'm here for you, best friend," she said, caressing her back.

Bianca's shoulders shook up and down as she wept. "He cheated on me. I wasn't enough woman for him. After I gave birth, he used to act like he couldn't stand to look at my body. Maybe if I would've lost weight or had a tummy tuck, this wouldn't have happened."

Abigail gripped Bianca's shoulders and stared into her eyes. "This is not your fault, Bianca. You're a great, beautiful person. Don't let Andrew make you think any different."

Nodding, Bianca lay her head on Abigail's shoulder. "Please hold me, Abigail." _Hold me._

_Ding dong._ The doorbell rang.

All Bianca wanted to do was sleep. Not have visitors. "My head is killing me. I don't feel like company."

"Would you like for me to get rid of whoever it is?"

"No. I'll get it." Bianca stood and headed for the door. When she opened the door, a gentleman wearing a Home Depot uniform was standing on her porch. "Yes?"

"I'm from Home Depot. I'm here to put a new door on your florist."

"A new door? But I didn't order a new door."

"Well, somebody did. It's been paid for and everything. It shouldn't take me any longer than thirty minutes to get it up, and then I'll be on my way."

"Okay. Did Andrew buy the door?"

"They don't tell me nothing, ma'am. All I do is put the doors up. Have a good day."

"You, too." Andrew had intended on getting the door to the florist fixed after all, she thought, closing the door. Well, what do you know? Andrew's inconsiderate, selfish ass did have at least one considerate bone in his body.

"Who was at the door?" Abigail asked upon her return to the kitchen.

"Home Depot. Andrew ordered a door for the florist."

"Oh."

Bianca sat back down. How was she ever going to get over this? Fisting her chin, tears flowed from her eyes. "He slept with his mistress in my house. I was married to a liar. A cheater. He didn't care anything about me or the boys. Oh, Abigail...why me? Why me?"

"I'm here for you, Bianca. I love you, friend."

"Will you hold me again?"

When Abigail extended her arms to Bianca, she lay her head on her shoulder and cried.

BANE'S CHEF, Mason, stood inside the kitchen at his penthouse whipping up a nice breakfast. Bacon sizzled in the frying pan. Pancake batter filled the waffle maker. Grits bubbled in the pot. Everything smelled delicious.

Reading the news on his iPad, Bane's stomach growled.

"How would you like your eggs prepared, Mr. Balfour?" Chef Mason asked.

Bane lifted his gaze. "Scrambled."

"Would you like for me to scramble the kids' eggs, too?"

"Umm. Let me ask them how they like their eggs." Bane walked over to the wall and pressed the intercom button. "Katie."

"Sir?" Katie answered.

"How would you like your eggs prepared this morning?"

"I eat anything."

"What about Josh? How does he like his--"

Josh emerged inside the kitchen. "Now this is what I'm talking about. You don't get a choice at the orphanage. What you get is what you get. As long as I eat, that's all that matters to me."

"Never mind. Josh is here." Bane released the button. "Good morning, Josh."

"Good morning. Man, you got a chef?"

"Yes. And now that you live here with me, he's your chef, too."

Josh sat down at the table. "If you keep spoiling us like this, Katie is going to have a hard time leaving when our six months is up."

"She'll adjust. And if she doesn't, she'll have her big brother to help her through it."

"Yeah. I'll try to be there for her as much as I can. She's all I got."

"Well now, you have me. And I'll be here for the two of you even after you're gone."

Katie strolled in the kitchen wearing a pretty purple dress. "Good morning."

"Good morning," Bane said.

Mason lowered a big platter stacked with pancakes to the table. He smiled. "And you must be Katie?" Katie nodded. "I'm Mason, Mr. Balfour's personal chef."

Josh grinned. "And now he's our chef."

Katie's eyes widened. "Our chef? We have our very own chef?"

"Yes," Bane responded.

Katie sat at the table between Josh and Bane. "Wait till Jada finds out about this."

Josh responded with, "Don't go bragging to Jada. The last thing you need is for her to get mad and then start some mess in school."

Katie sucked her teeth. "I don't brag, Josh."

Josh's brows lifted. "You're right, you don't. But Lizzy does." Katie's eyes narrowed at Josh. "Speaking of Lizzy, have you talked to her this morning?"

She pressed her lips together in displeasure. "Be quiet, Josh."

Josh's gave Katie a lopsided grin. "Did you text Lizzy this morning, huh?" he chuckled.

Pulling out her chair, Katie's mouth took on an unpleasant twist.

Bane decided to interject at this point. "Guys. Rule number one, no using your cell and texting before school. And at night, I want the cells shut down by ten."

"Ten?!" their voices hitched.

"Yes, ten. I bought the cell phones for you in case an emergency shall arise, not to use them whenever and however you want to. Rule number two...as soon as you walk in the house after school, do your homework. And rule number three is...be kind to all the hotel employees, staff, and guests."

"Yes, sir," Katie said.

"Yes, sir," Josh stated.

One at a time, Mason lowered their plates in front of them. Josh ate everything on his plate, as if it were his last meal. Katie, on the other hand, only ate the waffle and bacon. After breakfast, Bane drove the teenagers to their high school, dropped them off, then headed to the equestrian to see his step-brother, Richmond.

A month later

Nervous tension spread through Bianca's system as she entered the human resources office at _Balfour Hotel & Resort._ A single mother with hardly any income from her florist coming in, she needed a job bad. God, please let them hire her.

Bianca walked up to the receptionist counter. The dark haired woman sitting behind the desk greeted her with a smile. "Good morning. How may I help you?"

"Good morning. I'm Bianca Riesling, and I'm here for an interview."

"The manager is ready for you. Follow me."

Bianca followed the young girl down the hallway, rounded the corner, and entered a small conference room. There was a lady sitting at the table. The receptionist made the introductions, then left.

"Have a seat, please," the manager stated.

Bianca sat at the head of the conference table. Her stomach twirled with nervousness. It'd been a long time since she'd had an interview. What if she couldn't answer the questions and didn't get this job? Lacing her fingers in her lap, she swallowed.

The manager lifted her job application to her eyes, then lowered it to the table. "In five minutes or less, tell me about yourself. Your time starts now."

Oh Lord, help her. "Well, um...as you already know, my name is Bianca Riesling. I'm a proud mother of two young boys. I enjoy gardening and...and..." Her mind went completely blank. _And my husband committed suicide. He slept with another woman in my house. I have no money. I'm on the verge of having a nervous breakdown._ Bianca's hands trembled.

"Is there anything else you'd like to tell me about yourself? You still have some time left."

Bianca's misery felt like a steel weight on her shoulders. "I just buried my husband a month ago, and I never should've come to this interview. I'm a complete mess. I have two sons to raise. And I'm desperate for a job."

The manager slid her glasses from her face. "I'm sorry to hear about the loss of your husband."

Bianca sniffed. "Thanks."

"You're hired."

Surprise flooded her. "Huh?"

"I said you're hired. When can you start?"

Bianca smiled. "I'm hired?" The manager nodded. Bianca covered her mouth with her hands. "Oh, thank you so much. Thank you. I promise to do a good job. I can start today."

"Good. Your floor supervisor's name is Gail. Gail will show you around the hotel, then pair you up with a co-worker who'll train you."

After some more paperwork was completed, the manager introduced Bianca to Gail. African-American and kind of stout, Gail seemed like a nice woman. While she was in the restroom changing into her uniform, Gail stood outside the door, going on and on about how much she loved working at the hotel. She raved and ranted about the CEO and hire-uppers.

"You're going to love working here," Gail told her.

"I'm looking forward to it," Bianca replied as she exited the restroom, dressed in her uniform.

"The first thing I'm going to do is show you the hotel. Then I'm going to put you with Hannah. Hannah will be in charge of training you. You look a little nervous."

"I am."

"Don't be. Once you get the hang of it, the work here is easy."

As Gail gave Bianca a tour of the hotel, she was in complete awe. Following closely behind her supervisor, she walked up the spiral staircase and entered a luxurious ballroom. Moments later, Gail showed her the spa and fitness center. To Bianca's liking, the hotel had plenty of amenities. Yet although employees got discounts, it'd be a long time before she could afford a massage.

While standing in the laundry area, a young female about Bianca's age entered the room. Gail introduced them. "Hannah, this is Bianca."

Hannah was very pretty. She had long black hair and cute dimples. "Nice meeting you," she said.

Bianca smiled. "It's nice meeting you, too."

Gail stated, "If you ladies need me, I'll be in my office." She left.

"So have you ever worked in a hotel before?" Hannah inquired.

"No." Not only had she not worked in a hotel before, she'd never stayed in one like this either. Maybe if she went back to college and finished earning her degree, she could work her way up to the top and become one of the executives.

Hannah and Bianca stepped on the elevator. "I'm going to show you to the penthouse," Hannah said. "It's the first room you'll be cleaning every morning.

"The penthouse. I bet it's very nice."

"It's exquisite. The maid that was in charge of cleaning it got a promotion to laundry supervisor. So now it'll be your responsibility." They entered the elevator. As the elevator carried them to the top of the building, Hannah filled her in on the housekeeping rules.

Moments later, the elevator doors swished open and they walked off. Walking down a long hallway, Bianca felt good about her new job. Hannah swiped a keycard over the door, and they entered.

Standing in the foyer, Bianca's mouth parted. She scanned the entire downstairs area. Sky blue curtains covered the windows. The floor was made of white shiny marble, and the sofa was white, too. Everything looked so clean. And so white.

Bianca's eyes wandered to the second floor. "It's so big in here. It already looks clean."

"Umm. For the most part, it stays clean. However, Mr. Balfour likes his home to be spic and span. He's very particular."

"Mr. Balfour lives here?"

Gail nodded. "Yes." Hmm, that was strange. She'd heard that Colton and Leslie had a big, fancy house. Well, considering that Colton owned the hotel, it made perfect sense for him to have two residences and live here as well. "Mr. Balfour got so bored, he even went out and became a foster parent of two children. A boy and a girl. Their rooms are upstairs."

"I'm surprised that he'd want to raise two children in a penthouse." _Especially since he's retired._ Leslie was such a good customer of hers. It was kind of weird that she was now going to be cleaning up her home.

"That's what everybody is saying. But these kids are teenagers. So it's not like they need a back yard to run around in."

"Yeah. Most teenagers want to be on their cell phones all the time."

"Tell me about it. All my nephew cares about is social media. That Snapchat and Twitter drive his mother crazy."

Bianca yawned. She was so tired and could really use a nap right now. Although Andrew had been dead for a month now, she still tossed and turned throughout the night and was still in grieving mode.

Hannah led Bianca into the master bedroom, which was so exquisite. Sky blue paint colored the walls. A white fluffy comforter covered the mattress. The bed was made of medium-brown wood. This gigantic television was on the wall. Tucked in the corner was a wooden bar filled with liquor.

"This bedroom is so beautiful. Looks like a queen lives here."

"Girl, you ain't seen beautiful. Wait till I show you something." Hanna opened the top drawer of the dresser and took out a sparkling diamond necklace. "Check this out," she said, holding the necklace up to her face.

Bianca felt her eyes stretch. There had to be at least twenty diamonds on the necklace.

"My goodness. It's so beautiful. It must cost a fortune."

"Isn't this the most beautiful piece of jewelry you've ever seen?"

Bianca nodded. "Yes."

Hannah tried to hand it to her. "Here. Try it on."

"Oh no, I couldn't." _Leslie would kill me._

"Well, I can." Hannah tightened the clasp behind her neck. As she stood looking in the mirror, a smile came to her face. "I love coming in here, pretending like I'm rich."

"Don't you feel guilty for snooping around in Mr. Balfour's belongings?"

"Nope. It's not like I'm going to steal anything." She replaced the necklace in the drawer. "Besides, as nice as Mr. Balfour is, I'm sure he doesn't mind me pretending like I'm rich. Other than my mind, I ain't gon' never see no jewelry like the one I just tried on, so why not play with it?"

_Because it's not yours_ , Bianca thought.

Hannah reached into the drawer for something else. "Bam!" She held a gold Rolex with a red and black dial up to Bianca's face. "I priced this watch online, and it's worth $179,000. Girl, I can buy me two houses with this watch. Two!" She held up two fingers.

"$179,000?"

"Yep. But you know, this is chump change for Mr. Balfour. That man is a billionaire. All the ladies around here is dying for him to take them to bed and make mad love to them."

_But he's married._ "Even you?"

"Hell yeah, me too! I'm tired of living in the projects! If he ever tried to get me in bed, I'm gon' say yeah and get pregnant on the first try! Wouldn't you?"

Andrew's affair lingered around the edges of Bianca's mind. She'd never want to bring another woman the kind of pain his mistress had bought to her. "No. That's not my style."

"Well, you must have a husband, then."

Bianca's happy deposition turned sad. "I'm a widow. I just buried my husband yesterday."

"I'm sorry, I didn't know." Hannah lowered the watch back into the drawer and shut it. "I feel so bad for assuming you were married."

"It's okay. You didn't know."

It only took Hannah thirty minutes to show Bianca how Mr. Balfour liked his penthouse cleaned. "It's time for my morning break, then afterwards I have five rooms to clean. If you need me, I'll be on the third floor," Hannah said, then left.

Bianca walked into the kitchen. Dishes overloaded the sink. Apparently, Colton and Leslie and the children had had breakfast this morning. She squirted dish detergent in the sink and filled it with piping hot water.

As Bianca stood at the sink washing dishes, she thought of Andrew and her wedding day. Other than giving birth to her children, that'd been one of the best days of her life. Shaking her head, she circled the dishrag on the counter, getting it squeaky clean. Next, she mopped the floor.

Now finished cleaning the kitchen and the upstairs, Bianca descended the staircase and walked inside the master suite. Exhausted, she stood at the foot of the bed, eyeing it. Gosh, she was so tired. If she could close her eyes for fifteen minutes, she'd be fine afterwards.

Yawning, she climbed into bed and pulled the cover up to her chest. "Just fifteen minutes is all I need," she whispered, closing her eyes.

OFF TO a good start this morning, Bane swiped the keycard over the door of his penthouse and entered. Ahh. The inside smelled like fresh lemons. All he needed to do was grab his briefcase, and then he'll be out of there.

As Bane stalked towards his master suite, his cell buzzed. He paused right outside his bedroom door, slid it from his clip, and read the screen. _Courtney._ Ignoring Courtney's call, he sent her behind to voicemail.

Slipping his cell back into its clip, Bane eyed his bed. It was a complete mess. _That's strange._ Normally, the maid would make his bed before leaving.

Keeping his eyes on the bed, Bane further entered the room. He stopped when he reached the foot of his bed. Oh, hell no! Someone was sleeping their ass off in his got damn bed. Please don't tell him this was his new maid? Her ass was as good as fired!

Bane marched to the side of the bed and glowered at the sleeping woman. He snatched the covers off her. "Get up!"

"Ahhh!" She bolted upright in bed. Suddenly, her face went grim. "You scared me!"

"Good! Now--" Their gazes locked. Silence loomed in the air.

"Bianca?"

"Bane?"

"What are you doing here?"

"I was hired to work here this morning." Bianca shook her head. "Please don't tell your father I was sleeping in his bed. Ever since my husband died, I've been unable to sleep. I'm so tired. I promise this won't happen again."

"Bianca, this is not my father's bed. It's mine."

Bianca's eyes grew wide. She cupped her mouth. "Oh. My. God. I'm so embarrassed. This has never happened before. Please don't fire me. I'll work overtime for free and make it up to you," she rambled about. A grim expression was on her brown, pretty face.

Peering down at her sensual breasts beneath her uniform, Bane's cock throbbed. _Damn right, you're going to make up for this. But not with overtime. Fucking me time._

"Lay down," he ordered, desiring to plant his dick inside her.

"Huh?"

"It's okay if you lay back down and go back to sleep."

When she stood, Bane took a step forward. Now their bodies were so close. Heat rose up inside him. His balls tingled. If she just hadn't lost her husband, he would've kissed those brown, soft looking lips of her. "It's okay if you sleep in my bed. I've lost someone before, and I understand the tremendous pain a person goes through. So lay back down. Get some rest. And finish cleaning up later."

"No. I wouldn't feel right."

"If you don't, I'm going to fire you."

"You wouldn't."

"Apparently, you have no idea who I am and how I operate. You can always try me, Bianca," he said sternly.

"Okay, maybe I'll take you up on your offer."

Bane smiled. "By the way, do you like the door I got for your florist? If not, I can get you another one."

Bianca's thick brows lifted. Her sweet lips parted. God, he wanted to slip his tongue inside her mouth and kiss her erotically. "You bought me the door?"

"Yes."

Bianca swallowed. "I had no idea. I thought my husband had bought it for me. Thank you so much. How can I repay you?"

_Let me make love to you_ , popped inside his mind. "You can repay me by getting back in bed and getting some rest." Nodding, Bianca eased onto the bed and lay on her side. Staring up at him, she blinked. "I'm going to my office downstairs. Please feel free to sleep in my bed as long as you like." Shit, her husband's death may work to his advantage. He pulled the covers over her shoulders and stalked off.

At the sound of the front door clicking, Bianca bolted upright in bed. She clenched her chest. Okay. Breathe. Breathe. Did Bane Balfour really just catch her sleeping in his bed? Yes, he did!

Bianca flung the covers off her legs and hopped out of bed. She'd made a complete fool of herself. Bane probably thought she was lazy and a terrible employee. And although he'd been nice and understanding, who's to say that after he had a chance to think about it, he wouldn't fire her?

Nibbling her nail, Bianca paced back and forth. Maybe she should go apologize to him again. No. He'd said it was okay. He'd said that he understood what she was going through. Bianca retrieved her cell from her pants pocket and dialed.

"Hey, Bianca," Abigail answered on the first ring. "How'd the interview go?"

"I got the job."

"Oh, good!" Abigail's voice hitched.

"You're never going to believe what just happened."

"What? Tell me."

"Well, they wanted me to start today, so I said yes. I was appointed to clean Mr. Balfour's penthouse."

"Which Mr. Balfour?"

"Bane."

"Oh, my. He's so fine!"

"I'm so stupid, Abigail. While cleaning up, I got tired and I told myself that I was going to lay down for fifteen minutes but ended up falling asleep. Some hours later, Bane came home and caught me sleeping in his bed."

Abigail's loud gasp came flying through the cell. "Did he fire you?"

"No."

"He didn't?"

"No. Just the contrary. He insisted that I go back to sleep. In his bed."

"Say what?! In his bed?!"

"Yes. And not only that. Remember the door I received for the florist?"

"Un-huh."

"Well, Bane bought it."

"Get the hell out of town! You're kidding!"

"No. I'm for real."

"Bane has the hots for you. He wants you, Bianca."

"No. I think he's just being nice."

"If so, that's taking nice to a whole different level."

"I'm sure he makes donations to different charities and people in need all the time." Something occurred to Bianca. Did Bane...what if he... "Abigail, do you think he's the one that--"

"Paid for the funeral," they said in unison.

"It wouldn't surprise me if he did," Abigail said.

"Well, it'd sure as heck surprise me. Why would he do such a thing?"

"Didn't I just tell you that he likes you, Bianca?"

"But he doesn't even know me."

"Have you looked in the mirror lately? You're beautiful. And even with two kids, your body is slamming. You have the sweetest personality, and you have a very sensual look about yourself."

There was no way Bane could be interested in her. No freaking way. "Thanks for the compliment, Abigail. I just don't see myself that way. I better go and get to work."

"All right now, Sleeping Beauty. Don't be surprised if you wake up and catch Prince Charming sleeping beside you."

Bianca giggled. "You're so funny, Abigail."

"I'm glad I made you laugh. You deserve to be happy. Maybe Bane can bring some happiness into your life."

"I just lost my husband, and Bane knows that. I'm sure I'm the last thing on his mind. Besides, I have two children. No man wants a lady with two small children."

"But Bane isn't just any man. He's a billionaire. Taking care of two children would be a small feat for him."

"Well, even if he was interested in me, which I highly doubt, getting involved with another man is the last thing on my mind. I don't trust men, and I don't ever want to be married again. Nor date." Bianca heard someone enter the penthouse. "I think he's back. Let me go." She quickly ended the call.

"Bianca! This place looks spectacular!" Hannah shouted from the other room. Thank God Bane hadn't returned. Thank. God.

"I'm in here, Hannah." Bianca straightened the sheets on the bed, tucked the ends beneath the mattress, and fluffed the pillows. She headed for the bathroom. She squirted some lemon fresh cleaning liquid in the sink.

Squeezing her hands inside a pair of rubber gloves, she stared in the mirror. Observing the bags beneath her eyes, she looked like she was plum tired, and she was. There was no way in the world that Bane found her attractive. _No freaking way_ , she thought, remembering how her heart rate had increased when he'd stood so close to her.

WHILE THE teacher stood at the front of the room writing on the chalkboard, Katie sat at her desk scribbling on a sheet of paper. She drew a heart, then wrote "Bane loves Katie" inside. Never in a million years did she think a billionaire would take care of her. Now with Andrew dead, everything in her life was great. And her new daddy, Bane, was the cause of it all.

Lizzy appeared in the empty desk beside her. Wearing a pair of black yoga pants and red tank top, Lizzy stuck out her tongue. _Bane is not our daddy, silly. Our daddy died. You killed him, remember?_

Sometimes Lizzy really got on her last nerves. Of course she remembered she'd killed her real daddy. _Bane adopted me, so that makes him my father,_ she told Lizzy.

Lizzy wagged her head. _Bane didn't adopt you._ _He's a foster parent and is temporarily taking care of you and Josh. Don't forget it's only for six months. However, if you listen to me, I think I know how you can convince Bane to keep us forever._

_How?_

A devilish look came into Lizzy's eyes. _Sleep with Bane._

_Oh no! I'm not doing that again. I did that with Andrew, and it didn't work._

A suggestion of annoyance lingered in Lizzy's eyes. _It doesn't work on married men, but it'll work on a single man._

_He's too old, Lizzy. He wouldn't want me._

_How do you know unless you try?_

"Katie, can you tell me the answer?" Mrs. Brown asked.

Katie's eyes snapped up. She looked at the board. She had no clue as to what Mrs. Brown was talking about. "I don't know."

"Dumb fart," Tyler said from across the room.

Jada burst into laughter. "She's probably thinking about murdering someone. Freaking weirdo killed her daddy."

Katie looked at Lizzy. Lizzy put up her fists and started punching the air. _Don't just sit there! Go teach Jada a lesson!_ Still looking at Lizzy, Katie stood. _Turn over the desk like you're real pissed off,_ Lizzy urged.

Katie flipped the desk over. Textbooks and paper went flying in the air. "You need to watch your mouth, Jada." She strode over to Jada's desk.

Jada stood. "Nobody can make me shut up. Not even my own mama," she said, rolling her neck.

Mrs. Brown warned, "Have a seat, you two ladies, before I write you both up on a referral."

Katie spit in Jada's face. "Take that, bitch."

Jada's jaw dropped. "Oh no, you didn't." When Jada swung, Katie ducked and she ended up punching Lizzy in the face. Lizzy dropped to the floor and blacked out.

_Nobody hits Lizzy!_ Katie rammed her fist into Jada's cheek, and they started fist fighting. The class went haywire. Students threw balled up paper in the air. Others recorded the fight on their cell phones.

Jada kneed Katie in the stomach. Doubling over in pain, Katie fell to the floor. Jada hopped on top of her and started beating her behind. Bad.

The door of the classroom flung open. Two police officers stormed in. One grabbed Katie, and the other grabbed Jada.

Out of breath, Katie's chest heaved up and down. She looked down and spotted Lizzy on the floor, holding her bloody forehead.

Finally, Lizzy got up. Still holding her forehead, Lizzy stumbled over to Katie. _Jada whipped our ass, Katie. Now she must die!_

THE LIGHTS inside the conference room at _Balfour Hotel & Resort_ were dim. Bane's brother, Zeke, stood at the podium up front. Executives along with Bane sat around the table, preparing to discuss the ever growing expansion of _Balfour Enterprises_.

Holding a light, Zeke shined the red dot on the screen. "So as you can see, _Balfour Enterprises_ is growing by leaps and bounds. Last year, the company's profit margins increased by a whopping 170%. That's nearly double from the previous year."

Bane interjected, "Our growth has been phenomenal and has exceeded our expectations. Our visit to Dubai went great. After meeting with our father, we've decided to build an underwater hotel in Dubai. Our goal is to have the hotel completed in three years."

"But we've barely gotten the one in Paris off the ground," Thomas exclaimed.

Bane said, "Doesn't matter. Besides, the one in Paris is off to a great start. Zeke and I frequent the Paris site on a regular basis, and if trouble arises, our top notch executives such as yourself can handle it. That's why we pay you the big bucks."

"Speaking of big bucks," Zeke said, "going to the next slide. Each of your bonuses for this year is $100,000."

The men in the boardroom cheered.

Bane's cell phone vibrated. He looked at the screen. It was Josh and Katie's school calling. "Excuse me." He walked into the hallway. "Hello?"

"Hello, Mr. Balfour."

"Yes?"

"This is the assistant principal from _Hilton Head High School_. Your daughter Katie has been in a fight."

Bane cursed mentally. "What happened?"

"Well, according to the teacher, Mrs. Brown, she and another girl named Jada exchanged words. Katie then got out of her seat, walked over to Jada's desk, and spit in her face. Unfortunately, Mr. Balfour, we have to suspend Katie."

"And what about the other girl?"

"She's suspended, too. District policy says that Katie has to be picked up right away."

Bane shook his head. "I'm on my way." Hanging up, he reentered the boardroom and whispered in Zeke's ear that an emergency had come up with Katie. Frustrated, Bane left.

Twenty minutes later, Bane arrived at _Hilton Head High School_. He pressed the button on the wall. The door clicked open, and he anxiously walked inside. He'd only had Josh and Katie for a short while now, and already something bad had happened. In order for Katie to spit in Jada's face, Jada must've been bothering her. How dare somebody bother Katie? She was the sweetest little girl. Wouldn't harm a flea.

Bane entered the front office and walked up to the desk. "I'm Bane Balfour, Katie's guardian."

"I wish he were my guardian angel," the woman sitting behind the receptionist mumbled, but Bane overheard her.

The receptionist pointed to a room off to the side. "Katie's inside there with the assistant principal."

"Thanks." Bane entered the room to find Katie sitting at the table, crying her pretty little face off. Gazing into her red-stained eyes, his heart grappled.

"Thanks for coming, Mr. Balfour. I'm Mrs. Whitfield, the assistant principal. Please have a seat." Bane took a seat opposite Katie. The AP said, "Per our discussion over the phone, Katie has been suspended from the school. The other girl she was in a fight with admitted to teasing Katie, and that's how the fight got started."

Bane hated to hear that Katie had been teased. "What was she teasing you about?"

"She said that I," Katie's words trailed off, "she talked about my real daddy. I'm sick of the kids at this school picking on me. They're nothing but a bunch of bullies."

Mrs. Whitfield interjected, "Mr. Balfour, please note that we have a zero tolerance for bullying at this school."

"How long is she suspended for?"

"Four days," Mrs. Whitfield stated.

What on Earth was he going to do with Katie for four whole days? "What about her assignments?"

"Katie has her venue with her. Her teachers will email all of her assignments to her."

"What's a venue?"

"I'll show you." Katie pulled a computer the size of an iPad from her book bag.

Things had sure changed since he'd graduated from high school. When he was in high school, all they had were pencils and paper. "Let's go, kiddo."

Bane and Katie walked outside and got in the car. Halfway down the road, Katie started crying again. "Am I going to get a whipping?"

"No. I don't believe in hitting kids." _Or women._ But he'd beat the crap out of a man who messed with his family, or him.

"Are you going to ground me?"

"No, Katie. It's your first time getting into trouble, so I'm going to let you slide this time. However, you may have a consequence next time. People will always talk about you, but you can't let it get to you. In this world, you have to be strong. Stay focused. And regardless of what kind of life you had before, you have a better one now. Don't let anybody spoil your happiness."

"Thanks, Bane. You're right. I need to tune the negative people out and focus on the good things that's happening to me."

Bane stopped at the traffic light. "There a famous quote that I abide by, and I want you to memorize it."

"Okay."

Frank Sinatra said, " _'The best revenge is massive success.'_ "

"I'm confused, what does that mean?"

When the light turned green, Bane mashed on the gas and proceeded forward. "It means that instead of getting somebody back, just be the best you. Be successful. When you hit Jada, that didn't accomplish anything. It may hurt her pride, but she'll get over it. But people really get mad when you're successful."

"Like you." Bane nodded.

"I can never be as successful as you," Katie remarked.

"Why can't you?"

"Because I'm not smart."

"From this day forward, I don't want to hear you say you can't do something. Get rid of the word 'can't', and replace it with 'I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me'. If you're interested, I'll teach you how to be successful in life."

Smiling, Katie put her hands in a prayer symbol. "Oh, please teach me, Bane. I want to learn."

Bane steered the car up to the valet area of the hotel. "No problem. Are you up for some ice cream?"

A smile ruffled Katie's mouth as she nodded. They entered the hotel lobby, rounded the corner, and headed straight for the ice cream parlor. He ordered two scoops of butter pecan, and she got a vanilla sundae with extra cherries.

As they sat outside on the deck enjoying their ice cream, Bane couldn't get his mind off Bianca. Watching the waves crash up against the sand, he wondered what pretty Bianca was doing. When he'd been standing close to her this morning, he'd wanted to kiss her hard and make love to her.

"This is the best day ever, Daddy," Katie said, interrupting his thoughts.

_Daddy!_ Katie calling him "Daddy" made him uncomfortable. __ At first he was tempted to correct her, but then he decided not to. She'd been through enough in one day.

"I'm glad your day is getting better." He looked at his watch. "I'm headed to my office. I have a lot of work to do today." He stood.

"After I'm done with my homework, can I go to the spa and get in the Jacuzzi?"

"As long as your homework is done, I'm fine with that." Katie held out her hand for some money. "You don't need any money. I'll call up the salon and let them know you're coming. Be good," Bane said, opening the door to the ice cream parlor.

"Thanks, Daddy."

"Your welcome, kiddo."

Gazing out at the ocean, Katie smiled, then spooned a cherry into her mouth. Boy, was this sundae delicious. Being suspended from school wasn't as bad as Katie thought it'd be. Hell, with the way Bane was treating her, maybe she should get into trouble on a regular basis.

Life was great. Just look at the beach and this fancy hotel. And best of all, a freaking billionaire was taking care of her and her stupid brother Josh. Considering how her life had turned out, maybe killing her father had been worth it.

Katie tossed her empty container in the trash, reentered the building, rode the elevator to the top, and walked inside the penthouse to find it spotless and smelling like fresh lemons.

After walking upstairs to her bedroom, she tossed her book bag on the floor, fell to the bed on her back, and stared at the ceiling.

Kapoosh! Lizzy appeared. And boy, was she forever being dramatic today. Wearing a white robe, a thermometer was tucked between Lizzy's lips and she had a big Band-Aid on her forehead.

Lizzy put her backhand to her forehead. _Jada kicked our ass twenty-six different ways today. In front of every damn body, and you're lying here acting like it's no big deal._

Katie eased up on her elbows. _How am I acting like it's no big deal?_

Lizzy snatched the thermometer from her mouth. _Who eats ice cream and watches seagulls fly over the ocean after a day like ours? We got our asses kicked!_

_What should I have been doing, then?_

Lizzy put her backhand to her forehead like she had a temperature. _Umm, coming up with a plan to murder Jada would be nice. Every bone in my damn body hurts._

_No, Lizzy. I'm not killing nobody else. Enough is enough. I'm not going to kill Jada over something so trivial._

Lizzy stuck up her middle finger. _Fuck you. You get on my last damn nerve._

_Lizzy, you're being ridiculous --_

Folding her arms across her chest, Lizzy nodded, then disappeared like she was a magical genie. She'd left behind smoke and everything.

Mentally exhausted, Katie sat upright in bed. Why did Lizzy always want to kill somebody? Why couldn't she just let people slide sometimes? Katie didn't know how, but she had to reason with Lizzy.

Determined not to give in to Lizzy's crazy way of thinking, Katie put on her bathing suit and went to the spa. While indulging in a pedicure, the hot water soothed her feet.

Her mind drifted to Andrew and their short affair. The day Andrew had died, he'd acted like he'd hated her. All because she'd told a little lie about her age and had stolen some of his money. Well, yes, she'd taken a lot of money, but so what? She deserved every single cent she'd taken from him. She'd had sex with him even when she hadn't felt like it. Had done things to him that his wife Bianca would never think about doing. She'd even done it with Andrew in the park. On his job. And even in his wife's bed. Andrew had some nerve not wanting to pay her for her skills. That's why he got exactly what he deserved--shot.

Katie had her toes and nails painted black, then treated herself to a hot rock massage and facial.

Feeling refreshed and rejuvenated, and rich, she left the salon with a big smile on her face. Being the daughter of a wealthy man like Bane was awesome!

When Katie rounded the corner near the front lobby, she froze. Her heart dropped. Blinking sporadically, she eyed the woman leaving through the glass doors of the hotel.

_That looks like Bianca, Andrew's wife_ , Katie thought, disbelieving her eyes. She walked briskly across the hotel lobby to get a closer look, but by the time she got there, the lady had gotten in her car and left.

Oh well, that probably wasn't Bianca anyway. Yeah, she was just being paranoid. And the devil was trying to steal her joy. Well, she wasn't going to let that happen.

Katie tossed her hair over her shoulder, got some lunch from the café, and sat outdoors in the lawn chair at the pool.

INSIDE THE kitchen, garlic bread baked in the oven, permeating the air. Corn boiled in the pot on the stove. Cooking dinner, Bianca stirred the pot of spaghetti. She looked over her shoulder at the boys as they sat at the table doing their homework. Although they were identical twins, she thought Logan looked more like Andrew, and Landon resembled her more. She loved them so much. They were her life.

Bianca lowered the lid on the spaghetti so it could simmer. "Boys, put away your homework. Go wash your hands. Dinner's ready."

Landon and Logan put their alphabet worksheets aside, ran to the bathroom to freshen up, and quickly returned.

As they sat at the table eating, Bianca kept staring at Andrew's empty seat. Maybe moving in with her parents was a good thing, because she'd never get used to seeing his chair empty. She'd never get used to not seeing him walk around the house. She'd never go into their office again. And just to know that he'd brought some woman up in their house now had her lips trembling.

"Mommy, why is your lip shaking?" Landon asked.

"It's not shaking, Landon."

Logan pointed at her mouth. "But it is shaking. I see it."

Bianca pinched her lips together to stop the quivering. Those two precarious kids noticed everything. She couldn't get anything past those two.

She heard the front door open. Seconds later, Abigail entered the kitchen. "Hey, guys." She gave Bianca a kiss on the check, then the boys. After she fixed herself a plate, she joined them at the table. "So how was the rest of your day at work?"

"It went well."

Abigail wiggled her eyebrows. "I bet so. Tell me about it." The warmth of Abigail's smile echoed in her voice.

"Boys, go upstairs and take your baths." Logan and Landon left the room. Elbows up on the table, she laced her fingers. "Other than what I told you earlier today, nothing else happened."

"So did Bane make any more moves on you?" Abigail outright asked.

"He wasn't making any moves on me, Abigail. He was just being nice."

"Whatever, my friend. I disagree," she said heartily.

"Trust me, Bane isn't interested in me. He just feels sorry for my loss."

"I really don't think that's the case. However, right now I just want you to get yourself together and do what's best for you and the boys. Just know I'm here for you. Even if you need to talk about Bane, you can confide in me and know that it stays right here between us."

"I know. What would I do without you?"

"You're stronger than you think, Bianca."

Bianca disagreed with Abigail. She wasn't strong. She was a mess. She'd never felt weaker, and other than her boys, she had nothing. She couldn't even afford to keep this house.

At the end of the month, she was moving back into the home she grew up in, and her parents were happy about it. But she wasn't. She was a grown woman and shouldn't have to rely on her parents for anything.

Disdain grew inside her. _I hate Andrew_ , she thought, stirring her fork in the spaghetti. During dinner, she and Abigail talked about the good old days when they used to double date with their husbands. And then they went as far back as college and high school. Those days seemed much simpler than today. All she had to worry about back then was herself. No money. No raising kids. No man drama. It was just little ol' her in high school. And those had been some of the happiest days of her life.

Bianca was full. She pushed her plate to the side and sipped on some wine. "Life was so easy back then when we were kids."

"Tell me about it. Other than man drama, my life was perfect. Men...you can't live with them--"

"From here on out, I'm determined to live my life without a man."

Abigail lowered her wine glass to the table. "I understand why you feel like that. However, I don't think that's going to be the case for you. And just so you know, if you want to start dating tomorrow, I'll support you."

"Tomorrow?" There was now way she could do something like that.

"Yes, tomorrow." Abigail cupped Bianca's hand. "I don't want to offend you, however, a man like Bane isn't going to wait around for you forever."

"Seriously, Abigail? Are we back to that again?" Bianca grabbed her plate and walked over to the sink.

Abigail grabbed her dish and followed her. "What's wrong with dating so soon? It's not like your marriage was--" She stopped speaking mid-sentence.

Bianca stared into Abigail's eyes. "Finish what you were about to say."

"I'm sorry. I need to watch my mouth."

"It's okay. Say what's on your mind."

"Bianca, even you said your marriage was over a long time ago." Abigail was right. She had said that. "When was the last time you've been out on a date? Better yet, when was the last time a man kissed you? Or made love to you?"

A shudder of humiliation descended upon Bianca. "It's been so long."

"How long?"

"Maybe two or three years. I don't know."

"That's too long for a woman like you to not be loved, especially when she has a husband. Call it a gut feeling, but I'm convinced that Bane is going to make a move on you. And when he does, don't brush him off for fear of worrying about what people may think. No one has walked in your shoes. Only you can decide what's right for you."

"You're so sure Bane is interested in me. I can't fathom it, Abigail."

Abigail smiled. "That's because everyone, except for you, knows how beautiful you are."

Tears streamed from Bianca's eyes. "I feel so ugly. And fat."

Abigail hugged her. "You're not ugly. Nor are you fat. You're the most beautiful woman I know."

The doorbell rang. While Abigail went to answer the door, Bianca began washing dishes. Abigail was such a good friend, and she was so blessed to have her. From the day she'd met her friend, she'd always been there for her. Through thick and thin, she could count on Abigail.

Abigail returned with a sad look on her face. "I have some bad news."

Removing her hands from the sink, Bianca wiped them on her pants. "What's wrong?"

"It's the repo man. He's here to get the cars."

Bianca's knees buckled. Bursting into tears, she held onto the sink to keep from falling. "Andrew left me with nothing. How could he do this to me? I hate you, Andrew! I hate you!"

Abigail wrapped her arms around Bianca's torso. "It's going to be okay, Bianca. Maybe Todd and I can share his car, and you can drive mine," she said, caressing her back.

BANE SWIVELED his office chair towards the window and looked out at the glistening ocean. The bright sun was perched in the sky. Boats sailed along the water. It was the perfect day to ask Bianca out to lunch, but he didn't think she'd be ready to accept his offer just yet. Turning back towards his desk, Bane lifted the phone to his ear and dialed his secretary.

"Yes, Boss?" Gretchen answered.

"Gretchen, please cancel that order of roses for me."

"Are you sure, Boss?" Gretchen asked.

"Yes. It's too much. Now just isn't a good time."

"Will do."

"Thanks." Bane lowered the phone to the receiver. First thing this morning, he'd told Gretchen to order a big bouquet of red roses for Bianca. But the more he thought about it, the more he realized that was a horrible idea. He hadn't even taken her out on a date yet. Nor had he kissed or made love to her.

Bianca had him doing things he'd never done before. Like buying the door and insisting that she sleep in his bed or he'd fire her. He needed to slow it down and give her some time to grieve her husband first. Two more weeks was all she was getting, though. And then he was going to bust a move on her. Hopefully, in the process he'd bust a nut, too.

Bane's phone buzzed. "Yes, Gretchen."

"The police are here to see you."

"The police? What for?"

"I don't know."

"Send them in." Bane had no clue as to why the police were there to see him. He sure hoped Jada's parents hadn't pressed charges against Katie. Because if they had, he was going to hire the best attorneys and sue the hell out of them for harassment.

His office door opened. In walked two male police officers. After they introduced themselves, the one named Mark got straight to the point.

"We're here because a woman by the name of Courtney Battlefield has pressed charges against you," Office Mark exclaimed.

Utter disbelief rattled Bane's insides. "Pressed charges? For what?"

Officer Mark said, "Assault. According to Courtney, you beat her up."

"Her face is bruised pretty badly," the other officer stated.

Growing angry, Bane shook his head. "Well, if it is, I didn't do it."

"Were you with Courtney a couple of Fridays ago?"

_This is unbelievable._ "Yes. She snuck into my office and got mad because I didn't want to be with her."

"Did you pick her up and throw her out of your home?"

"Yes, I did--"

"Before or after you struck her?" Mark asked, pissing Bane off.

Bane's head jerked. "Struck her? I didn't strike her. I've never hit a woman before in my entire life," he said in a grudging voice.

Officer Mark pulled a photo of Courtney from his shirt pocket and showed it to Bane. A big red knot was on Courtney's forehead, and her right cheek was split in two. "So you didn't do this to her face?"

"Heck no!" Bane gritted his teeth.

Mark extended a sheet of paper toward Bane. "This is a restraining order ordering you to stay away from Courtney Battlefield. If you don't, you'll be arrested."

Bane snatched the restraining order from Officer Mark. "Don't worry. I have no desire to go anywhere near Courtney. Now get out of my office." Balling the paper up, he tossed it in the trash.

The officers left.

Bane was so angry, he felt like finding Courtney and beating her ass for real. The first time Courtney had asked him for money, he should've known she wasn't about shit then. Who puts bruises on their own face, then accuses someone else of it? _Courtney Battlefield, that's who. She kicked her own ass. Jeez._

Frustrated, he sat and started back working. As he worked on the Dubai project, he found it difficult to relax. Stress and anger combined. Steadily mounted inside him.

The false allegations from Courtney were getting the best of him. Unable to focus, he decided to take an early break. Since Katie was still suspended from school, maybe he'll take her to lunch and have a pep talk before her return.

Pressing a button on his cell phone, he called Katie. "Hello?"

"I want to take you to an early lunch today, so go get ready."

"Yay!"

"Has the maid come yet?" he asked, anxious to see Bianca.

"No. I haven't seen her."

"We're leaving around eleven-thirty. Be ready." Bane ended the call. Perhaps he'll take Katie to _SugarKanes_ for lunch, he thought, locking his office door.

Bane's whole body stiffened as he entered the elevator. This thing with Courtney had him in a bad mood. Hopefully, some fresh air and spending some time with Katie would make him feel better. He wished Josh could join them, but he was in school.

Suddenly, Bane remembered Courtney's threat the last time he'd seen her. She'd stated she was going to stop him from getting temporary guardianship of Josh and Katie. Well, he'd gotten them. So what was Courtney planning on doing to him next? Something told Bane he hadn't heard the last from Courtney. While he didn't know what she was up to, she sure as hell better not bother his got damn kids.

Agitated, Bane entered his penthouse. When he stalked inside the master bedroom, his chest shifted. Bianca was standing at the foot of the bed with her back to him, tucking the linen beneath the mattress. Apparently, she didn't hear him come in.

Bane gawked at Bianca's perfect figure. Very shapely, she had a medium sized waist, and her butt was plump and scrumptious looking. She wasn't anywhere near skinny, and he loved that about her. Damn. He sure couldn't wait to get ahold of her.

He cleared his throat. When Bianca turned around and their gazes connected, Bane's heart stirred. "Good morning." _Beautiful_ was on the tip of his tongue.

Bianca's lips curled up into a smile. "Good morning. You startled me. I didn't hear you come in."

"Sorry for startling you."

When she blinked, her long lashes shadowed her cheeks. "It's okay."

"So did you go back to bed, like I'd insisted on Friday?"

"Yes. But only for a little bit."

"Good. I'm glad you got some rest."

"How was your weekend?"

Her bright eyes turned sad. "It was okay."

Great at reading people, Bane took a step forward. "You're lying. It was a disaster. Wasn't it?"

"Yes. It was." Bianca walked to the side of the bed and straightened the comforter.

"Not that it's any of my business. But what happened?"

"I'm just still trying to adapt to being a widow."

"Oh. That sounds hard. Well, if I can ever be of help, please let me know."

"Thanks, Bane. You're a very kind man."

Bane stared at Bianca's pretty face. Other than lip gloss, she didn't have on any make up and exuded natural beauty. "I better go clean the bathroom." Just as she turned around, Bane clenched her elbow, halting her.

Turning around, their gazes linked. "What do you have planned Friday, two weeks from now?"

Her brows gathered. "Nothing."

"I've never been the type of man to bite my tongue, so I'm going to get straight to the point. I think you're beautiful. And I want to take you out on a date."

Bianca's eyes rounded as her face flushed. "Thanks for the offer, but I just lost my husband and don't think I'd be good company."

"Why don't you let me be the judge of that."

"It's too soon for me to date. Besides, I have two small boys, and I'm sure you're not interested in anyone with little children."

"Oh, but quite the contrary. I love children. Just recently, I've become a foster parent. Just let me take you out for one date. No strings attached. I just want some company. So what do you say...can I take you out?" He was persistent.

"Can you give me some time to think about it?"

"Yes. I know your heart's broken about your husband's death, but please remember," Bane lifted Bianca's hand to his lips and kissed it. "When one door closes...another one opens."

Seemingly baffled, Bianca's lashes blinked repeatedly.

"Daddy!" Katie shouted.

"Yes, Katie?"'

"Where are you?" Katie asked.

Bane responded, "In my bedroom."

"How does my dress look--" Katie paused in the doorway. Looking at Bianca, Katie's eyes stretched wide. Bianca had had that same kind of effect on him the first time he'd seen her, too.

"The dress looks nice, Katie." Bane looked back at Bianca. "This is our maid, Bianca."

Bianca said, "Nice meeting you, Katie."

"Same here. What's your name again?" Katie asked.

"Bianca."

"Bianca what?"

"Riesling. Why?"

"No reason. Just curious."

"Oh. The way you looked at me, I thought I looked familiar to you."

Katie shook her head. "We've never met before."

"Let's go, kiddo." As Katie and Bane exited the room, a warm feeling spread through his bones. Bianca Riesling surely did something to his soul. She set it on fire.

Katie sat across from Bane at _SugarKane's._ Her eyes scanned the crowded restaurant. Fuming, she dipped a chicken tender into some honey mustard and took a bite. She glanced over at Lizzy.

Lizzy was sitting by the window with her legs crossed. Shaking her head, she folded her arms across her chest. _I know you hear me!_ Lizzy screamed.

Katie fake smiled at Lizzy. _Now's not a good time for us to talk. Don't you see Daddy sitting here?_

_He's not our daddy, fool!_ _He's our temporary guardian._ _And as soon as he finds out that you killed Bianca's husband, Andrew, he's going to send our asses to prison! I tried telling you that Andrew's Bianca and Bane's Bianca were the same person. But noooo! You didn't want to listen._

Katie picked up a fry and swirled it in some ketchup. _So what she's Andrew's wife?_

Lizzy pinched her lips together in a firm line _. So what? You slept with Bianca's husband and killed him in cold blood. We can't have her around us. She may find out you murdered Andrew._

_She's not going to find out._

_I know one thing...you better hope she doesn't go cleaning out your drawer this morning._

Katie's heart dunked. _The ring's in the drawer!_

_Now do you see why I'm so worried? If Bianca finds Andrew's ring, we're going to_ _prison, Katie. I don't want to go to jail. Do you?_

"Are you ready to go back to school tomorrow?" Bane picked up his beef brisket cheddar cheese sandwich and took a big bite.

"Yes."

_Liar!_ Lizzy shouted. _We got to get rid of Bianca. And we have to do it now._

Boy, was it hard listening to Bane and Lizzy at the same time.

Bane stated, "If Jada says anything to you after you return to school, you need to ignore her. Let her talk all she wants. If she bothers you, let me know, and I'll handle it. Always remember...no one can help you like I can."

"Okay. I'll remember. Have you ever wanted any children of your own?" she asked, changing the subject.

"Yes."

"Then why haven't you had any?"

"Because I haven't met the right woman."

"What about Bianca?" she asked, fishing for answers.

"Bianca? What does she have to do with this?"

_I hate her._ "She's pretty."

Bane chuckled. "Yes. Bianca is very beautiful. But there's nothing going on between us. She's just the maid."

Katie felt relieved. "How well do you know Bianca?"

"I don't know her at all."

"Oh."

Lizzy shouted, _Whew! Thank God! The last thing we need is for Bane to get with Bianca. Especially considering you have a crush on him._

Katie struggled to keep her facial expression intact. _No, I don't._

_Yes, you do._

Bane lowered his glass of raspberry tea to the table. "I also want you to pull your GPA up. A C average is good, but I know you can do better. I'm going to get you a tutor for the SAT and ACT. Next year, you'll be graduating, and I'd like to see you go to college. Have you thought about what colleges you'd like to apply to?"

"Yes. I want to go to the University of California and take up acting."

Lizzy smirked. _That's dumb. You're already a good actress. You're sitting here pretending like you don't have the hots for Bane. Looking like a sweet princess, and you're far from it._

Bane continued. "You don't necessarily need a degree in acting to become an actress. Maybe you should minor in acting and major in something like international business. If you major in business, you could do an apprenticeship with one of our executives. And after you're done, perhaps you can work at one of the hotels."

"I'd love to work for Balfour Hotel & Resort."

Over lunch, Bane explained how the business side of hotels worked. He then advised Katie to do well in school. He also told her how proud of her he was and that he was glad to have Josh and her living with him. He felt that with proper guidance, he could help put them on the right path, whereby they'd be successful in life.

Katie didn't know how she was going to do it, but she was going to try real hard to ignore Lizzy and do right for once in her life. Every time she listened to Lizzy, she got into deep trouble. Lizzy was a controlling subconscious, and Katie was tired of being controlled.

Bane wiped his mouth. "Ah, that was a good lunch."

"It was."

A beautiful woman with black long hair came over to the table. "Bane. It's so good to see you."

"Hey, Sandella." Bane stood and gave the woman a hug. "How's Braylon and your daughter?"

"They're doing good."

"Sandella, this is my foster child, Katie."

_Foster child?_ "Hi," Katie mumbled.

"Hi, Katie. A friend of Bane's is a friend of mine. So anytime you're in the mood for something to eat, just stop by and it'll be on me."

"Thanks, Sandella. But Katie gets an allowance, so she's able to pay for the things she wants. It's so good seeing you."

"Good seeing you, too." Sandella walked away.

Katie grabbed the teal bag containing her leftovers and exited the eatery behind Bane. Walking along the sidewalk, she looked across the street towards the ocean.

Suddenly, a woman came out of the convenience store. Wearing raggedy clothing, a baseball cap covered her head and she was clenching a beer bottle to her chest. She sat on the ground and held up a sign.

Katie paused in her tracks to read the sign. _Homeless and hungry. Please help._

The homeless lady removed her baseball cap. Katie's heart flopped. _Mama?_ She took off running across the street.

"Katie. Where are you going?" Bane asked, remaining put.

Katie peered down at her mother. "Mama."

Norelle's head tilted backward as she glanced up at Katie. "Katie. Is that you, Sweetie Pie?"

"Yes, Mama. It's me." When Norelle grinned, Katie noticed she was missing two front teeth. "I have something for you." She handed her mother the leftovers.

"Thank you, my Sweetie Pie."

"Come on, Katie!" Bane shouted, still standing across the street.

"I got to go, Mama."

"Ahh. But you just got here. How's my Josh doing?"

"He's good. We live with a billionaire now. We're rich."

"Rich? Can I come live with you?"

"No."

"Why not?"

"'Cause we just got there. Maybe one day. But not right now. Okay?" The last thing Katie needed was for Norelle to mess things up for her. Norelle was a crack addict, a drunk, and irresponsible. "Take care, Mama."

Norelle's eyes flooded with tears. "Please don't leave me, Katie. Please."

"I'm sorry, but I have to go." Katie ran back across the street.

Bane patted Katie's back. "That was very nice of you to give something to the homeless woman. Do you know her?"

"No," Katie lied.

Two weeks later

DRESSED IN her maid's uniform, Bianca rolled the cart inside Bane's penthouse and parked it near the door. As usual, Bane was at work and the kids were at school. After cleaning the kitchen, she vacuumed, cleaned the upstairs, then made her way downstairs.

Masculine scents of Bane's cologne hit her in the nose as soon as she entered his bedroom. Constantly thinking of how Bane had asked her out, she put clean sheets on his bed. While dusting the nightstand, she came across his gold diamond Rolex. She tried the watch on. It was way too big for her tiny wrist.

Her cell vibrated. "Hey, Abigail."

"Good morning, friend!"

"Good morning."

"So have you given Bane an answer yet?"

"No. I haven't seen him today."

"What are you going to tell him?"

"I'm not going out with him, Abigail."

Abigail sucked her teeth. "Why not?"

"Because it's too soon."

"Oh Bianca, please don't let a once in a lifetime opportunity pass you by. Just say yes and go. If you're still not comfortable with dating so soon after the first date, then don't go out with him again. But at least give it a try. Okay?"

To be talking about dating was crazy. "I'll think about it. Love you."

"Love you, too."

Bianca ended the call.

Now that Bianca had finished cleaning up Bane's penthouse, she pushed the cart on the elevator and went to clean the rooms on the fifteenth floor. Swiping the keycard over the door, she noticed she was still wearing Bane's watch. Oh my God! She had to put it back. The last thing she needed was for Bane to think she was a thief. She hurried towards the elevator.

Back inside Bane's bedroom, Bianca slid the watch from her wrist and placed it back on the nightstand. Spotting Bane's shirt on the chaise lounge, she lifted it to her face and sniffed. It smelled just like Bane. _Masculine and delicious._

_This shirt belongs in the dirty hamper._ Rumpling the shirt in her hand, she walked inside the closet. "Ahhh!" she screamed.

Bane was inside the closet butt naked. His lips pulled back into a grin. "Good morning, Bianca."

Bane's muscular chest looked hard as rock. His six pack was sculpted like a male model. Bianca's gaze lowered to Bane's shaft, then shot back up to his face. _Ooo. Nice package._

Placing a hand to her chest, she was anxious to escape from his domineering presence. "Bane, I'm so sorry. I didn't know--"

Bane walked up to her and grabbed her hands. Dipping his head, he positioned his mouth close to hers. Heat wavered through her system. Tempted to kiss him, she licked her lips.

"See something you want, Bianca?" His voice was deep. His gaze was steady.

"No." She took off running. She felt Bane closing in on her. Right when her hand gripped the door handle, Bane's strong hands clutched her shoulders. Oh, God. He was standing directly behind her, butt naked.

Putting his mouth to her ear, Bane's warm breath fanned Bianca's lobe. "Invading my privacy like this, you owe me a date, Bianca," he stated huskily.

Chills skittered up Bianca's spine. Her whole body tingled. Afraid to look in his face, she flung the door open and ran. Never looking back.

"I take that as a yes!" Bane shouted after her.

_Yep, she better be scared._ Shutting the door, Bane chuckled. He headed for the bathroom.

The way Bianca had taken off running after she'd seen his dick tripped him the hell out. Her eyes had stretched wide. Her mouth had fallen open. Had she stayed in the closet with him just a little while longer, he might've tried to stick his cock in her pretty little mouth.

Bane turned on the faucet and stepped inside the shower. Hot water pelted his back. Imagining Bianca performing oral sex on him, he circled the bar of soap on his chest. His balls tingled. His shaft lengthened. God, he wanted Bianca. Wanted to taste those sweet, soft looking lips of hers.

In all his years of living, he'd never had to work this hard to get a woman to go out with him. Jeez. Maybe she was refuting his offer because her husband had just died. But then again, some women would kill their husbands just to be with him. And hers was already dead.

She had to be attracted to him, right? Damn, maybe not. Bianca was a complicated maze that he intended on figuring out.

For all he knew, Bianca had planned to _accidentally_ run into him inside the closet. Maybe she was pretending not to want him. She wouldn't be the first woman to act that way. Whether she was pretending or not was irrelevant. What was important was how bad he wanted her and how he planned to get her. Soon. Like tonight.

Turning his chest towards the shower head, Bane rinsed off, then stepped out of the shower. Toweling off, his cock ached for Bianca. Fluid surfaced to his hard tip. He was so hard right now, he was tempted to jack off. It'd been almost a month since he'd made love to a woman, and his balls were starting to turn blue. Hopefully, Bianca would give him some pussy on their first date.

Bane put on his clothing, grabbed his keys, and went to work. While sitting inside his office, he couldn't get his mind off Bianca. That woman had gotten beneath his skin like a bad parasite, sucking the roughness out of him, making him weak and desperate.

He lifted the phone to his ear. "Gretchen. Order up ten dozen roses and have them sent to Bianca Riesling."

"Would you like for me to send them to the same address as the door?"

"No. Send them to her job."

"Where does she work?"

"Here."

"You're something else, Boss."

"I know, Gretchen."

"What would you like the card to say?"

"Mmm." He paused to think. "Put...you've seen the best part of me...so tonight...let me see the best part of you."

"I'm on it, Boss."

"Thanks, Gretchen."

Hanging up the phone, Bane smiled. He had big plans for Bianca tonight, and she didn't even know it. _I'm not taking no for answer._

Horny as hell, his shaft wiggled. He looked down at the erection in his lap. "We'll get her, boy. Don't worry," he told his beef.

Later on that evening, Bianca sat on the bus peering out the window. The bus drove past an old convenience store. Pecan trees lined either side of the road. African-American teenagers joyfully roamed the streets. Catching the bus everywhere was no joke. As soon as she saved up enough money, she was going to buy herself a car.

Her mind flashed back to this morning. Oh God, she'd seen Bane naked. His manhood had looked so big. And delicious. And thick. _I wonder if he was hard?_ she wondered, feeling ashamed. She smiled.

Closing her eyes, butterflies twirled her stomach. Bane was hung like a horse. Big balls and all, the man was well endowed. Why had she looked down at his penis? Now it was going to be hard to face him, she thought, reopening her eyes.

Earlier today, Bane had sent her five dozen beautiful roses, too. Although he didn't sign the card with his name, she knew they were from him. When the bouquets arrived, the other maids were in awe and had gone ballistic over how pretty they were. If the bouquets hadn't been so big, she would've attempted to bring them home. No. It was a good thing she didn't. The last thing she needed was for her parents to start speculating about her love life.

Bianca released a breath _. Oh Bane, you only think you want me. I'm so screwed up, I'd mess up your life. Men like you are playboys._ Her marriage with Andrew had ended in complete and utter disgust. The last thing she wanted or needed was another cheating behind man.

The bus came to a stop a few feet away from her parents' home. Having had a full and unpredictable day, Bianca sighed. Strapping her purse over her shoulder, she stood. "Get your bags, boys."

Logan and Landon grabbed their backpacks and followed Bianca off the bus.

As Bianca walked down the street, she waved at the neighborhood kids. "You boys being good today?" she asked the teenagers.

"Yes, ma'am," Jill commented.

"Yeah!" Tank shouted.

Bryan said, "I stay out of trouble."

Her parents' home came into view. Surrounded by woods, the white one story structure had three bedrooms, two bedrooms, and a small back yard. When she reached the end of the driveway, KeVante jogged up to Bianca. "Bianca. Can I talk to you for a second?"

"Sure, KeVante."

KeVante looked at Logan and Landon, then back at her. "It's kind of private."

"Boys, go inside the house." Logan and Landon scampered up the driveway and shot inside the house. Those two ran everywhere they went.

Dark complexioned with brown, full lips, KeVante had dreads. His eyes raked up and down Bianca. He licked his lips. "Umm. I don't know how to say this, so I'm gon' just say it. You fine. And umm...well...I want to take you out."

Bianca giggled. She couldn't believe her ears. KeVante was a senior in high school. "KeVante, I'm too old for you."

KeVante licked his lips. "No, you're not. I'm mature for my age. Don't underestimate my skills. 'Cause your boy here got mad moves, and I'd like to get to know you. Dang, you pretty. Just beautiful."

"Thanks for the compliment. But you need to date girls your own age. Have a good day, KeVante."

"Just one date!"

Shaking her head, Bianca entered her parents' home. Scents of cornbread stuffing sailed up her nostrils. Mmm. She headed straight for the kitchen.

Her mother stood at the stove frying chicken. "Hey," Sandra said. "How was your day?"

"It was good. Busy, but good." She'd seen handsome Bane naked today, so it was better than good. Actually, as embarrassing as it was, it was still great. She smiled inwardly.

Sandra removed a chicken thigh with tongs and placed it on a paper towel. "Dinner is almost ready."

"I'm going to go take a quick shower, and I'll be right back."

Hot water sprayed Bianca's neck as she tilted her head back. Rubbing the soapy washcloth on her breasts, the remembrance of Bane's creamy looking shaft ran through her body. It'd been long and thick, and hairy. Her sex clenched.

Bianca's hand lowered between her legs. She scrubbed her sex with the washcloth. It'd been so long since she'd made love. Too long. She bet Bane could probably make her cum in two minutes or less.

Was she wrong for thinking of Bane in this manner? Would she be wrong for going out with him so soon? What if someone who knew Andrew saw her? As soon as Andrew entered her mind, the sensual feelings stirring her insides faded.

Several minutes later when Bianca returned to the kitchen, her father and the twins were sitting at the table waiting on her. Logan and Landon sat on either side of her father. "Hey, Dad." She kissed his cheek.

Lucas asked, "Hey. How was work today?"

"It was really good, actually." She took a seat.

Sandra lowered a big bowl of macaroni and cheese to the table, then took her seat. The five of them gathered hands, and her father said the grace.

"Amen," they said in unison.

Bianca sipped her ice water. "As soon as I get paid next Friday, I'll give you something towards rent."

Lucas shook his head. "I refuse to take any money from you. Take your money and do something nice for yourself. You deserve it."

"Why don't you treat yourself to a nice spa day?" Sandra suggested.

She had the best parents in the world. "Thank you so much for everything. As soon as I get on my feet, I'm going to pay you back every single dime."

"You don't owe us anything," Lucas confirmed. "We're your parents, and we're more than happy to help."

Sandra cupped the back of her hand. "That's right. We love you, sweetheart."

"What about me?" Logan asked.

"And me?" Landon inquired

Smiling, Sandra pinched Logan, then Landon's cheeks. "We love you two little rascals, too."

"Would you two like to go riding bikes in the park tomorrow?" Lucas asked.

"Yay!" they screamed.

"I saw you out there talking to KeVante. What was he talking about?" Lucas asked.

"Nothing."

Lucas' expression turned serious. "He was trying to hit on you, wasn't he?"

Bianca snickered. "Yes. I told him that he was way too young for me. Besides, I'm never dating again. Those days are long behind me."

"Good," Lucas said bluntly. "You don't need a man in your life. You got me. I'll take care of you."

"But you're not always going to be around," Sandra said.

"That's why you and I left her our life insurance policies. Unlike deadbeat Andrew, if anything were to happen to us, you'll be well taken care of. Your mama and I made sure of that."

Sandra shook her head. "Just so you know, I disagree with Lucas. When the time is right, there's nothing wrong with you dating."

"I wish someone would come here trying to get with my daughter...I'd cuss him out, then turn around a whip his a--"

"Ass," Landon said.

Bianca gasped. "Landon, we don't say words like that in this house. Where did you learn to cuss?"

"Peter at school taught me."

Logan lifted the drumstick to his mouth. "He taught me, too, Mommy. He said, 'Damn', and the teacher made him move his color to red."

Bianca looked at the twins. "Well, we don't cuss in this house. Do I make myself clear?"

Swallowing, they both nodded. "Yes, ma'am."

The doorbell rang.

Sandra placed her napkin on the table. "I wonder who that could be." She went to go answer the door, and when she returned, she had a big smile on her face. "Someone's at the door for you."

"Who?"

Happiness filled Sandra's pupils. "Bane Balfour."

Shock coursed through Bianca's veins. Bane wouldn't. Or would he?

"What in the world is your boss doing here? I sure hope he's not here to fire you, because I'm gon' put my foot up his a--"

"He wouldn't come to my home just to fire me, Dad."

"After that crap Andrew did, nothing surprises me," Lucas snorted.

"What did my daddy do?" Logan asked.

"He died, silly," Landon said.

On her way to the front door, Bianca stopped by the bathroom to look at herself in the mirror. Strands of her hair were poking straight up, so she redid her low ponytail. She nervously walked down the hallway and entered the living room.

Bane stood there, devilishly handsome. With their gazes linked, his lips drew back into a gorgeous smile. Her heart turned over in response.

Dark hair and light brown eyes, his massive shoulders filled the black shirt he wore. Tall and handsome, with a beautifully proportioned body, any woman in her right mind would go out with him. But that was the thing, she wasn't in her right mind. She'd cracked the hell up the day her husband had committed suicide and was struggling to find her way back to normalcy.

Bianca twisted her hands together. "This is a surprise."

"My being here shouldn't be a surprise, Bianca." Bane took a step forward. "But that little stunt you pulled this morning inside my closet...now that was a surprise."

She flushed. "It was an accident."

"So you say."

"Why are you here, Bane?"

"I came to collect the debt you owe me."

"Debt?"

His eyes brightened with merriment. "You saw me naked. That ain't free, baby. You can pay me back by going out with me tonight. Feel free to bring your kids. I'm not going to take no for an answer, Bianca."

Dang, he was bold. "I would go, but I don't have anything to wear."

"Wear what you have on."

Bianca's mind raced with mixed thoughts. "Let me see if my parents can watch the boys." _I'm crazy. He's crazy. I can't believe he showed up like this. Can't believe I'm about to do this._

Lucas had a big smile on his face when she reentered the kitchen. "Hot damn. You done went and got a billionaire interested in you. That's my girl."

Bianca snickered. "Dad. Were you eavesdropping?"

Lucas' level of excitement was so obvious. "No. The walls are just thin."

Sandra asked, "Didn't you just say a few minutes ago that you didn't want her ever dating again, Lucas?"

Lucas smiled harder. "I'm just talking about regular ol' men. The rules don't apply for a billionaire."

Sandra, Lucas, and Bianca laughed.

"So you'll watch the boys for me?" Bianca asked.

"Hell yeah," Lucas said. "Go out and have yourself a good time."

While Bane waited for her in the living room, Bianca searched her closet for something nice to wear. Because she'd worked from home the last five years and didn't have a night life, the pickings were slim.

Feeling as if she shouldn't be doing this, she slipped on a pair of jeans and plain red shirt. Glancing in the mirror, she applied lip gloss to her lips, removed the secured band from her hair, and brushed it straight. That was the best she could do. She strapped a black purse over her shoulder.

"You look amazing," Bane said.

He was such a liar. "Thanks. I haven't worked outside the home in a long time. My wardrobe is pitiful."

"You look beautiful to me." _Yeah right, player._ He pulled open the door. "Ladies first."

Bianca stepped outside the door to find a sparkling red Lamborghini in her driveway. The cool night air brushed her face as she walked towards Bane's fancy sport car. Stepping to the side, he opened the car door for her, and she slid inside.

"I bet this is going to be a night to remember," she mumbled to herself as Bane rounded the rear of the car before sliding inside.

BANE GLANCED over at Bianca and took a moment to enjoy her astounding beauty. Pushing the ignition button, a smile came to his face. Hardly wearing any make up, the brown tone of Bianca's facial skin glowed. Her lips were glossy. Dark brown hair grazed her shoulders. Silver loop earrings dangled from her ears. _She's mine tonight. And forever._ Knowing he didn't do _forevers,_ he should've never thought that.

Smiling back at him, Bianca's brown eyes sparkled. "Thanks for the roses. They were beautiful," she said as he backed the car out of the driveway.

"Beautiful roses for a beautiful woman. I make it a point to do business with people I know. I would've ordered them from you, had I not been sending them to you."

"Unfortunately, I had to close my florist."

An entrepreneur by nature, Bane hated to hear that. He was all for people owning their own business. "You did? Why?"

Bane saw hurt in Bianca's eyes. "My husband left me in a bad financial situation, and I couldn't afford to keep it open."

_Jerk._ A real man wouldn't dare put his wife in financial ruins. __ Bane patted Bianca's thigh. "Sorry to hear that. If you ever need any help, I want you to tell me." She nodded. "I'm serious. I want you to tell me," he repeated. "So I can help you."

"Thanks, Bane, but I'm not some kind of charity case."

"I never suggested that you were. I'd help any friend of mine...and you, Mrs. Riesling," he picked up her hand and kissed it, "you're my new friend."

"I bet you have a lot of female friends."

"I do. But none are as special as you."

Her right brow arched, as if she didn't believe him. "How did you know where to find me tonight?"

"Let's just say, my connection found you for me."

"Who's watching Josh and Katie tonight?"

"They're spending the night at a friend's house."

"Have you always wanted to be a foster parent?"

"No. My brother Zeke talked me into volunteering for the group home facility. After spending a lot of time with Josh and Katie, I started to care for them. So I became their foster parent."

"I think what you're doing is incredible. They're blessed to have you."

"Those kids bring so much joy into my life, I'm the one who's blessed."

Fifteen minutes later, Bane steered the Lamborghini into the parking lot of an upscale club. His original plan was to take her to a nice restaurant, but since she'd already eaten, he'd decided to bring her here instead.

Gazing into her eyes, a spark flew through him. He cut the engine. "Do you like dancing?"

"I used to love dancing, but after I had kids, life got in the way and I haven't been out on a date in forever."

"Didn't your husband take you out?"

"No. All Andrew ever did was work. He never had time for me and the boys."

Bane had a feeling that Bianca's husband had been a horrible person and had mistreated her. "Any man would be lucky to have a woman like you. Too bad your husband was a fool and didn't realize it."

"How can you say that? You don't even know me."

"No, I don't. But I'm a good people reader. My gut instinct tells me you're something very special." Bane longed to lean over and kiss Bianca's succulent lips but decided to save it for later.

Rounding the car, he opened the door for her. As they made their way toward the entrance, he longed to hold her hand. They entered the club to find the ambiance soft and romantic.

Dim lights glowed from the ceilings. Upbeat music pumped the air. Spotting an empty table in the corner, he tugged her hand and led the way. Big on being a gentleman, he pulled the chair from beneath the table.

"Thanks." She sat.

He placed his chair directly beside hers, sat, then draped his arm across her shoulders. Crossing his legs at the knees, he reached for the drink menu. "I know you ate before you left, but feel free to order something to eat."

"No, thanks. I'm full."

"Don't be shy, now. What would you like to drink?"

She glanced at the drink menu. "I don't know what I want. Order something for me."

Bane waved over the hostess. He ordered a Chocolate Cherry for Bianca. _Yep, I'm gon' pop her Chocolate Cherry tonight._ And for himself her ordered The Godfather.

"I'll be right back with your drinks," the hostess said.

"What's in The Godfather?"

"The Godfather has scotch whisky or bourbon mixed with Amaretto."

"Sounds like it'd burn your chest."

"It does." The Godfather was a manly drink. Definitely not a drink for soft pussies. Speaking of pussy, he wanted some. Tonight. Caressing the ball of her shoulder, he lowered his eyes to her breasts, then recaptured her pretty face.

"What?" she said, smiling.

"Thank you for joining me tonight."

"Thank you for asking me out."

It wasn't the first time he'd asked her out on a date, and he already knew it wasn't going to be the last. "It's my pleasure to be here with you. The next time, I'll take you somewhere much nicer."

"This is fine, Bane. In fact, it's perfect. I just don't get it."

"Get what?"

"Why would a man of your caliber insist on going out with a woman who has two small children?"

"You make having children sound like a bad thing."

"It's not bad, but it is a lot of responsibility. And why be bothered if you don't have to?"

The waitress lowered their drinks to the table. "Thank you," Bane said to the waitress. Bianca thanked her, too.

Bane continued. "I don't look at kids like they're a bother. To me, they're a blessing. Before Josh and Katie came into my life, I dated a lot and still felt alone."

"Maybe you weren't dating the right women."

"Maybe that's because I hadn't found her until now." An uncomfortable expression washed over Bianca's face. Bane lifted his drink in the air. "I'd like to make a toast." Bianca lifted her drink in the air. "Let's toast to putting the past behind us and embarking on new relations."

Their glasses clinked.

Seemingly enjoying herself, Bianca curled her lip around the glass and sipped. When a slow song came on, Bane escorted Bianca to the dance floor. As he draped his arms around her waist, she twined her arms around his neck.

Swaying from side to side, her breasts grazed his chest. Gazing up at him, the dim light shone down on her face. He saw a look of sorrow in her eyes and wondered if she was thinking about her late husband. Palming the back of her head, he motioned her head to his chest and held her.

_I'm going to help you get over that punk Andrew._ Rocking Bianca side to side, Bane's heart stirred. Her body pressed against his felt good. He'd never felt like this about a woman before. Could Bianca be the one to make him settle down? Considering he had no plans on getting married until he was well in his forties, he seriously doubted it.

Bane slow danced sensually with Bianca. His fingertips caressed her spine. The tender touch was causing her female senses to intensify. To heat like wildfire.

Andrew never used to hold her like this. Like she mattered, or like he cared. It'd been so long, she'd forgotten how good it felt to be in the strong arms of a perfect gentleman. She had no clue that she needed to be held like this.

Gratitude for Bane filled Bianca's heart. With her head snuggled against his chest, a single tear streamed down her cheek. Right now, she never wanted to let him go. She dreaded the song ending as it slowly faded out.

Bane clenched her chin and tilted her head back. "You're a good dancer."

Bianca smiled. "So are you."

"Are those tears I see?"

She nodded. "Yeah."

"You're thinking about your husband, aren't you?"

"No. These are tears of joy. I didn't know how much I needed this date. Thanks for making me feel like a woman again."

Bane lowered his mouth to hers. "I have something that'll make you feel even better. Can I show you?"

Swallowing, Bianca's heart beat harsh. "Yes." _Please show me._

Bane pressed his firm lips against Bianca's, slipped his tongue inside her mouth, and kissed her sensually. Groaning, he cupped her face. Sated desire filled her whole body as his kiss sang through her veins.

Uncomfortable with kissing him in public, she broke their heated kiss. She glanced around the club to find everyone staring at them. Thank God she didn't know any of these people. She prayed that the paparazzi or a reporter wasn't in the room. If their kiss made the headline news, she'd look like a big whore. Like she'd been having an affair. People would assume she was the reason Andrew had killed himself. Oh no, what had she done? She should've never agreed to this date. This only happened in fairy tales, and her life wasn't remotely close to being a fairy tale.

Suddenly, a fast song came on. Snapping his fingers, Andrew's feet shuffled. "I like this song." He grabbed her hand and spun her around. Holding her body to his, he dipped her toward the floor.

Bianca giggled. "Whoa." Determined to forget her problems for the moment, she started dancing. Snapping her fingers while moving side to side, she threw her arms up in the air.

His eyes lowered to her breasts, then to her waist, then back to her face. "You got some good moves."

_For once, I feel alive and living._ "You, too. It's been so long since I danced."

"I can't tell. You look like a teenager."

Back at their table, Bianca finished drink number two and ordered another one. Normally, she only drank alcohol casually, but tonight she was determined to have a good time and forget all about Andrew, and how broke she was.

As Bianca sat at the table drinking, her head swooned. She became dizzy. Giggling, she covered her mouth.

"Glad to see you're enjoying yourself."

Whew, she felt drunk. "I'm having a blast! What about you?" She laughed.

Bane chortled. "I'm having the time of my life. You're not a drinker, I see."

She thumbed her chest. "Order me that drink you had," she snapped her fingers, "what's it called? The Godfather! Get me one of those!"

Bane chortled. "Your parents are going to kill me for bringing you home drunk."

"I'm grown. They don't scare me." Bianca laughed. "Now it's my time to toast." She raised her glass in the air at the same time as Bane. "Let's toast to fuck Andrew!"

"Fuck Andrew." Cracking up laughing, Bane clinked his glass against Bianca's.

Bane stood. "Let's go."

"But I haven't had The Godfather drink yet."

"You've had plenty to drink."

When Bianca stood, she stumbled. Bane caught her before she hit the floor. Slouched in his arms, she glanced up at him and smiled. Bane looked like he had two heads circling around each other. "You want to fuck me, don't you?"

"Yeah, I do."

"I knew it! Take me to the hotel!" Her speech slurred.

Bianca was lit! Drunk as hell. Holding her hand, Bane walked outside and made his way to the car. Halfway there, she fell to the ground.

"Ooops." Bianca laughed.

Bane had no clue Bianca couldn't hold her liquor. He scooped her up in his arms, crossed the parking lot, and placed her inside the car. He leaned over her and buckled her seatbelt. "So are we having sex tonight or what?"

"Yeah. Are you sure?"

Bianca pointed at her face. "Don't I look sure?"

_Not really._ He shut the door.

Bane started the car engine. Blown away by Bianca's behavior, he contemplated on whether or not to take her home or back to his hotel. Josh and Katie were spending the night at a friend's house, allowing him the perfect opportunity to make love to Bianca.

Just as he put the car in reverse, Bianca grabbed his cock and squeezed. Instantly, he got hard. His shaft throbbed against her groping hand.

Smiling, she nodded. "I saw it, and it's big!" She shook his manhood.

Aroused, he sped out of the parking lot. He couldn't get to the hotel fast enough.

Fifteen minutes later, with Bianca by his side, Bane swiped the keycard over the door and entered his penthouse. Playful giggles escaped Bianca. She ran into his bedroom. Dying to get into her panties, Bane chased after her.

Bianca stood near the foot of the bed. Grabbing her shirt at the hem, she rolled it over her head and tossed it to the floor. Desire twinkled in her eyes as she removed her jeans.

The red satin bra and matching panties she had on looked sexy on her and went well with her beautiful complexion. Anxious to lick her pussy, Bane groaned. His cock was knotted tight, and he felt like he was about to bust a nut any moment now.

His eyes moved up and down her body with more than mild interest. "You're so beautiful."

"You, too!" Bianca ran and jumped into Bane's arms. Gripping his shoulders, she pecked kisses all over his face. "Fuck me, Bane. Please. Right now."

Bane lowered Bianca to the mattress. Spreading her legs on the linen, she arched her neck. Looking like a sensual sex goddess, her dark hair hung behind her shoulders. Breathing excitedly, Bianca's breasts heaved. Red polish painted her cute toes.

God, he couldn't wait to taste her nipples. He lowered the zipper on his pants, climbed on top of her, and paused. "I can't do this." He got to his feet.

Bianca pouted. "Why not?" She folded her arms across her breasts.

"Because now is not the right time. You're drunk."

She held a finger up in the air. "Yep. Sure am." She shrugged. "But I hear drunk sex is the best sex. It's definitely better than no sex at all."

Bane turned back the covers. "Lay down and go to sleep, Bianca."

"Ahh. You're no fun. For a billionaire, you sure are boring." She burped loud. "Excuuusssse me." Bianca slid beneath the covers. Blinking up at him, she yawned.

Bane pulled the covers over her chest, kissed her cheek, and walked to the doorway. He flicked off the light. "Goodnight, Bianca."

"Goodnight, big dick!"

Bane laughed, then headed to his guest bedroom, where he slept all by himself with an erection the entire night.

JAMMING MUSIC rocked the house. Weed scent filled the air. Teenagers packed the den as they danced the night away. Holding a red cup with alcohol in her hand, Katie maneuvered her way through the crowd and walked over to the dark corner.

Glad to be in the midst, Katie smiled. Connor Stewart sure knew how to throw a party. His parents had gone out of town for the weekend, and all the popular kids at school were there at the party. Connor was a superb running back on the high school football team, and all the girls liked him, including her. But Connor never paid any attention to her. He was too head over heels for stupid Jada. Thank God she wasn't there tonight.

Connor was on the dance floor dancing with Melissa. He held his drink up in the air. "Hell yeah! This my jam right here!"

Quarterback Chris McDaniel yelled, "Hey, Mr. DJ! Turn the music up!"

The volume of the music increased, and everyone went crazy.

When Connor turned around, his gaze connected with Katie's. He smiled. She flushed and just about melted. Keeping his eyes trained on hers, Connor started walking her way.

Katie's hands became clammy as her heart raced overtime. _He's so good looking. Why is he staring at me? He probably thinks I look like a slut in this mini skirt and cutoff shirt. If Daddy saw me like this, he'd have a hissy fit._

When Connor came to a stop in front of Katie, she gazed up at him. Gosh, he was so big, tall, and fine. "I've never seen you dress like this before. I'm digging your outfit, Katie," Connor said, towering over her like his name was Hercules.

Katie felt her cheeks warm. "Thanks." Hopefully, he liked her red lipstick, too.

"Wanna dance?" Connor asked.

_The hottest guy in school wants me. I can't believe this._ "Sure." She placed her drink on the table and followed Connor to the dance floor. Snapping her fingers, Katie's hips swayed as her feet moved side to side.

Having the time of her life, Katie was so glad Bane had agreed to let her stay the night at her friend's house. But if he knew they'd snuck out of the house while her mother was asleep, he'd ground her forever, and ever, and ever.

Connor put his mouth next to Katie's ear. "You should dress like that when you come to school. I'm going to hit you up on Instagram. Maybe we can hook up sometime."

"Aren't you dating Jada?"

Connor shook his head. "Nah. We broke up."

"How about we go upstairs and spend some quality time together?"

Katie nodded. "Okay." She walked up the staircase behind Connor. _Move over, Jada, because Katie is taking your spot._ Reaching the second floor, she walked down the hallway and entered his bedroom.

Connor's bedroom was junky. Soiled socks, dirty workout clothing, and balled up paper were on the floor. The sheets on his bed were rumpled. And his furniture was dusty.

Closing the door, he flicked off the lights. She sat on the bed beside him. He withdrew a joint from his pocket. "You smoke weed?"

"Yeah."

He lit the joint. Pinching the end, he puffed on it and handed it to her. Katie smoked the weed like a pro. Blowing smoke from her mouth, she smiled. She passed the joint back to Connor.

"I've been digging you for a while now." Connor's husky voice enticed Katie.

Lizzy appeared in front of the tall dresser across from the bed. She had on a leather vest and mini skirt, and a black bandana was on her head. _Don't listen to Connor's lies._

Katie groaned. _Go away, Lizzy. Can't you see I'm busy? He's not lying._

Lizzy waved her finger at Katie. _Don't say I didn't warn you._

"How long have you been liking me?" Katie asked Connor.

"To be honest, ever since we had that math class together."

"Then why didn't you say anything?"

"Well, at the time I was dating Jada."

Angry, Lizzy snatched off her bandana. _He's still with Jada!_

_No, he's not,_ Katie replied.

"Why did you and Jada break up?" Katie prompted.

"That's not important." Connor placed the joint in the ashtray on the nightstand. "What's important is us," he leaned into her, "and this." Connor slanted his mouth over Katie's and tongued her down.

Katie's sex moistened. Every cell in her body ignited, and she felt like she was floating on air. Their tongues intertwining, Connor lay her down on the mattress. He slid his big football hand up her skirt and fondled her damp sex.

Suddenly, the door flung open.

Connor jumped to his feet.

Katie sat upright.

Lizzy screamed, _That's Jada!_

Jada flicked on the lights. __ "I can't believe you're cheating on me with this ugly, homeless bitch!"

"I'm not cheating on you, Jada. I was in here all by myself resting. She came in here, and I thought she was you," Connor outright lied.

Jada rolled her neck. "She doesn't look a damn thing like me."

Connor threw his arms up in the air. "The lights were off. I couldn't see."

Lizzy walked up to Katie and kicked her in the leg. _Don't let him lie on you. Say something._

Katie took Lizzy's advice and defended herself. "You're lying, Connor. You told me that you and Jada had broken up."

Connor's head jerked back. "Bitch, you tripping."

Lizzy hollered, _Hit him, Katie! Hit him! Punch him in his balls!_

Katie swung. Connor caught her wrist, stopping her. He flung her hand downward. "Get out of my room. Don't even look at me when we get to school."

_You'll pay for this. Both of you_. Terribly upset, Katie marched downstairs. She searched everywhere for Piper and couldn't find her. She slid her cell phone from her pocket.

**Katie:** Where are you? I'm ready to go.

**Piper:** I'm upstairs with Rick. Be down in a few.

**Katie:** Hurry up.

As Katie stood in the corner sulking, a sudden headache came on. Struggling not to cry, she folded her arms across her chest. _Connor called me ugly. He lied to me. Had me thinking I was pretty tonight. He's no better than Andrew._

Katie spotted Connor and Jada descending the staircase. When they reached the first floor, Jada grabbed a Coke from the cooler, popped back the lid, and took a few swallows. Connor said something to Jada, then kissed her forehead. Jada's smile was so wicked and intended to be a nasty taunt.

A slow song came on. Jada placed her Coke on the table. Connor cupped Jada's hand and led her to the dance floor. Katie felt like she had to throw up as she watched Connor and Jada slow dance. They'd both made a fool of her.

Lizzy appeared and pointed at Jada's drink. _Put something in Jada's Coke and kill her._

Katie rolled her eyes. _I don't walk around with poison on me, Lizzy._

Lizzy pointed down the hallway. _Connor's parents' bedroom is down there. I bet their medicine cabinet is stacked with all kinds of stuff that can be poisonous if used incorrectly. Hurry up and go see before they stop dancing._

Like a treacherous killer, Katie entered Connor's parents' bathroom. She opened the medicine cabinet. Just like Lizzy had said, there were so many orange medicine bottles inside. She picked up one bottle and read the label. _Triamterene 37.5 mg._ ** _TAKE 1 CAPSULE BY MOUTH DAILY._** She hadn't a clue as to what Triamterene was.

One by one, Katie opened the capsules and poured a powdery substance on a paper towel. She then flushed the empty capsules in the toilet.

When she returned to the den, Connor and Jada were still slow dancing. Katie scanned the room to make sure no one noticed her. As usual, no one did. She pulled the napkin from her pocket, poured the powdery drug into Jada's drink, and hid behind the corner.

After the slow song faded, Jada walked over to the table and began drinking her Coke. Connor touched Jada's cheek. "I still can't believe you thought I'd cheat on you. I love you, Jada."

"I love you, too, Connor. This Coke tastes funny." Jada finished off the Coke anyway.

Just as Katie came out from hiding, _Me Too_ , by Meghan Trainor came on. Connor clenched Katie's elbow. "I thought I told you to leave."

"As soon as I find Piper, I'm leaving. Now let go of my elbow." Connor released her arm.

Jada rolled her eyes. "If she wants to stay and be miserable, let her. By the way, I dedicate this song to you, weirdo." Jada started singing Meghan Trainor's song in Katie's face. "If I were you, I'd wanna be me, too! I'd wanna be me, too!"

Connor told Jada, "Pay her no mind. Let's go dance." They hurried to the dance floor and began dancing.

Someone tapped Katie's shoulder. She turned around. Piper stood there smiling. "You ready?"

"Not anymore."

"Huh?"

"I got a feeling the party is about to get hyped."

"Considering we're not supposed to be here and my mom thinks we're at home sleeping, we need to get--"

Jada stopped moving. She clutched her throat, then plummeted to the floor. Everyone started screaming.

Katie and Piper ran over to the horrific scene. Connor was on his knees, shaking Jada's shoulders. Jada's face was beet red. Foam covered her entire mouth.

"What's wrong, Jada? Talk to me. Somebody dial 911!" Connor was panicking.

Jada's eyes stretched wide. Wheezing, her chest rocked. Looking at Connor, she died with her eyes open.

Lizzy wrapped her arms around Katie's waist from behind. _Great job, Katie. You finally killed Jada._

THE EARLY morning sun shone down on Bianca's face as she lay in bed asleep. Feeling her face warming, she stirred. She opened her eyes. Rolling onto her side, she looked beyond the sliding glass door and could see the blue shimmering sea.

_The sea!_ Bianca bolted upright in bed. She immediately realized she was at Bane's penthouse and in his bed. The space beside her was empty. Where was Bane, and why was she in his bed? Oh God, did she sleep with him? How could she let this happen? Why? Why? Why?

Memories of her date with Bane slammed into her mind. She'd been so upset about Andrew, she'd gotten drunk and made a fool of herself. Noticing she was in her bra and panties, she felt between her legs. Her sex was moist.

A hard hand flew to her mouth. Oh God, they did it, and she can't even remember. Was it good? Was it bad? Had Bane satisfied her? What about her? Had she satisfied his sexual appetite? This was terrible. Just horrible. Ashamed, she felt like running out of Bane's penthouse, just like she had when she'd seen his manhood.

Scents of bacon sailed through the vents. A seagull landed on the railing on the balcony. Suddenly, Bane appeared beneath the arch in the doorway. He smiled. He entered the bedroom and walked over to her.

"Good morning. How'd you rest?"

She pulled the crisp sheets over her body to cover herself. "Good, I guess." He must think awful of her.

"You were pretty drunk last night." He swiped a piece of hair behind her ear.

"I know. Bane, did we...did we have sex?"

"No, Bianca. I'd never take the advantage of you while you were drunk."

_Thank you, Jesus._ "Thanks for being considerate. I'm so embarrassed. I never drink. I was just so upset and overwhelmed. All I wanted to do was wash away the pain and have a good time. I'm sorry if I embarrassed you."

"You didn't embarrass me. I thoroughly enjoyed you last night. My chef cooked us a nice breakfast. After you freshen up, I'd love for you to join me."

Turning her legs sideways, Bianca stood. "Are Josh and Katie here?" she asked, praying that they weren't. She really didn't want them to know she'd spent the night.

"No, they're still at their friend's house. They won't be back until tomorrow, which is good so we can spend the entire day together. That's if you're up for it."

"I have to check with my parents and see if they'll watch my boys for me."

"Your boys are more than welcome to come over here." He traipsed over to the amour, grabbed a purple shirt, and handed it to her. "Here's a clean shirt." Bane smiled, showing off his perfect white teeth. "Feel free to leave your jeans off."

Bianca's mouth parted. Feeling shy, she blushed. Leaving her speechless, Bane walked off. _I hope he doesn't think I'm having sex with him today, because I'm not._

Spotting her purse on the chaise lounge, she reached inside and retrieved her cell. Her mother answered on the first ring. "Good afternoon." Her voice sounded happy.

"Good morning, Mama. How are the boys?"

"Logan and Landon are fine. They're in the den playing with Lucas. I guess I don't have to ask how your date went."

"Trust me, it's not what you think. I made a fool of myself."

"How so?"

"I got drunk. Like, stupid drunk. I made a complete fool of myself."

"Don't be too hard on yourself, Bianca. You've been through a lot lately. Before I forget, your father and I are going to take the boys to see a movie today. Afterwards, we're taking them to the park for a picnic and to ride their bikes."

She heard her daddy talking in the background. He asked, "What time are you going to be ready to go, Sandra?"

"Let me get my shoes, and I'll be ready," Sandra said. "Your daddy is ready to leave, so I'll talk to you later."

"You and Dad are so helpful, I'm so grateful for you."

"We enjoy spending time with you and the boys and wouldn't want it any other way."

"Thanks, Mama."

"We'll be in the car waiting," Lucas stated.

"I'm coming, Lucas." They ended the call.

Bianca slipped the cell phone into her purse. She glanced around Bane's masculine bedroom. She definitely didn't have any business being there in his penthouse. Men like Bane should date women who hadn't had children yet, or who'd never been married. The last thing he needed was a woman with a lot of baggage.

After Bianca showered, she shrugged on Bane's shirt and put on the same jeans she wore last night. Somewhat uncomfortable, she walked barefoot into the den. Dressed in a white collared shirt and a pair of jeans, Bane was sitting outside on the balcony, gazing out at the ocean.

Admiring his handsome face from the side, Bianca didn't move. She just stared at him. _Not only is he my boss, he's a billionaire. He's gorgeous, fine, and so charming. It'd be very dangerous to fall in love with a man like him._

Bane turned his head and caught her staring at him. He waved her over. "You look refreshed."

She sat across from him. "I feel refreshed." __ He made her so nervous.

"I hope you're hungry, because Mason whipped up a big brunch for us."

"I normally don't eat a big breakfast or lunch. Eating heavy makes me sleepy."

"In that case, I hope you eat a lot. I'd love for you to get sleepy and go back to bed. With me," he tacked on.

He'd left her speechless again.

Mason rolled a cart onto the balcony. Bane made the introductions. "Good morning, Mrs. Riesling. Nice meeting you."

"Good morning. Nice meeting you, too. And thanks for brunch."

Mason lowered a silver platter in front of Bianca first, then Bane. "It's my pleasure to cook brunch for you, ma'am. I hope you two enjoy your brunch, and the rest of your day."

"We will, Mason. Have a great weekend."

"Thanks, Bane." Mason departed.

Bianca lifted the lid from the silver platter. On the plate was spinach quiche, bacon, sausage, a piece of grilled chicken, and fresh fruit. "This is a lot of food."

"Maybe for you, but not for me." He forked a piece of sausage into his mouth.

She drizzled syrup on her pancake, sliced it into, and then ate it. Mmm. So sweet and buttery.

Sounds of the ocean sailed into her ears. Waves crashed against the shore. Beige sand stretched for miles along the quiet beach.

A cool breeze rolled onto the balcony. "It's so relaxing out here."

"Yes, it is. I love it."

"Do you think you'll ever buy a house?"

"If I ever got married and had children, I would."

"You don't seem like the marrying type."

"I'm not. But from what my brothers Zeke and Richmond tell me, I just haven't found the right woman yet. Or maybe I have and just don't know it."

Was he talking about her? Bianca wondered, sipping at the Hazelnut coffee.

"In case you haven't noticed...I'm very smitten with you, Bianca."

"Bane...I don't know what to say to that."

"I wasn't expecting a response." Okay...so she had, like, nothing to talk about. Sooner or later, he'd realize how boring she was. Then he wouldn't want anything to do with her. "So tell me about your children."

Bianca smiled. "Logan and Landon," she touched her chest, "they're the loves of my life. My two heartbeats. Although they're identical twins, they have different personalities. One is more adventurous than the other, but they're both caring, fun, and smart."

"I bet having two small boys the same age is a ton of work."

"It is. I bet having two teenagers around the same age is a lot of work, too."

Bane nodded. "It is."

"With your two kids, and my two boys...if we got together, it'd be like the Brady Bunch," she said, immediately wishing she hadn't.

Bane chortled. "I bet we'd never have a dull moment." His smile faded and was replaced with a more serious look. "Originally, I'd planned on getting Josh and Katie for six months." He sighed. "But recently, I've been thinking about adopting them. They're good kids, and I've grown to really care for them."

"I bet they care for you, too."

Nodding, he wiped his mouth with the napkin. "Were your parents able to watch the boys for you today?"

"Yes."

"Good, because there's somewhere I want to take you."

"Where?"

"It's a surprise. Let's go."

Just as Bane and Bianca reached the front door, it opened and in walked Hannah. When Hannah saw Bianca, her mouth dropped wide open. "Good afternoon, Mr. Balfour."

"Good morning, Hannah. What did I tell you about calling me Mr. Balfour?"

Hannah's eyes ping ponged between Bane and Bianca. "I know, sir. It's just a bad habit."

"All of my employees call me Bane, and I want you to do the same."

"Okay. I will," Hannah said.

Bane patted his pockets. "I forgot my wallet." He went to his bedroom.

Hannah gripped Bianca's shoulders. Softly, she uttered, "Ohmylivinggod. You fucked Mr. Balfour? You go, girl."

Bianca shook her head. "No, I didn't. We're just friends."

Hannah whispered, "Yeah, right. Just because I look stupid, doesn't mean I am. And if you didn't sleep with him, then you're the stupid one."

In a low voice, Bianca said, "I'm not lying, Hannah. He's just my friend. Please don't tell any of the other maids that you saw me with him."

"Giirrll, your secret is safe with me. But if you know like I know, you better hurry up and sleep with him. And while you're at it, you need to get pregnant. With twins. Hell, get pregnant with triplets. I can see the monthly child support payments now. You'd get at least thirty thousand dollars for each child." Hannah gave her a wide smile.

"Found my wallet," Bane stated, reentering the den.

With her back to Bane, Hannah winked at Bianca.

Bianca laughed inwardly at Hannah's crazy suggestions. She was a lot of things, but a gold digger was not one of them. And as broke as she was, she'd never get pregnant on purpose from Bane. He seemed like a good man and deserved a good woman.

Stepping to the side, Bane opened the door for Bianca.

"Mr. Balfour, is Bianca your new girlfriend?" Hannah came straight out and asked him.

Bane chuckled. "Bane."

Hannah shook her head. "Yeah, I meant Bane."

Bane's eyes swept across Bianca's face. "I don't know, Hannah. You'd have to ask her."

In disbelief of Hannah's nosiness, Bianca tilted her head. "We're just friends, Hannah."

"You heard the lady...we're just friends."

Hannah fisted her hips. "Well, y'all don't look like it."

"Have a good weekend, Hannah."

"You, too, Mr. Balfour--I mean Bane."

Chortling, Bane closed the door.

Twenty minutes later, Bane steered the car into the parking lot of the Marina Inn and cut the engine. Bianca took in the sight of the beautiful scenery. Several sailboats were docked at bay. At the end of the dock sat a restaurant called _Katherine's._

As Bane and Bianca walked along the waterfront dock, she marveled at the view. Light wind brushed her face. Nodding at the waterfront restaurant, Bane cupped Bianca's hand. "Katherine's is our family owned restaurant. My dad named it after my mother. However, if it were up to me, I'd rename it and call it Leslie's."

At first, Bane's admission shocked Bianca. But when she remembered what the news had reported about Katherine, she could see why he felt that way. According to the news, Katherine tried to have his father murdered while she was locked up in prison.

From the outside, Katherine's looked like a nice, upscale restaurant. "What kind of food does it sell?"

"Seafood. The freshest in Hilton Head. Do you like seafood?"

"Yes. I love seafood. It's my favorite."

"Well, I have to take you and your boys there someday." She liked the way Bane included her boys in everything. "Maybe I'll bring my kids, too."

"Uh oh."

"What?"

"You just referred to Josh and Katie as your kids."

"I did just do that, didn't I?"

"Yes. And I think it's wonderful."

Reaching the end of the dock, a big white yacht came into view. "This here is my baby."

"Wow. It's beautiful, and so big. Do you have a captain?"

"I'm the captain. I have my license to drive."

"What's the furthest you've driven it?"

"New York."

"New York? Wow, that's far."

"It takes me two weeks to drive to New York from here." Bane stepped onto the yacht. He turned around and reached for her hand. "This is my home away from home. Sometimes I come here to relax and clear my mind."

Giving her a tour of the yacht, Bane descended the steps to the lower level. After showing her the two guest bedrooms, they passed a small kitchen, walked down a short hallway, and stopped in front of a closed door.

"This boat is huge."

"This is my main bedroom." He pushed open the door. "What the fuck!"

A blonde-haired woman with hazel eyes was lying in Bane's bed. Wearing a black negligee, she narrowed her eyes at him. "Who the fuck is she, Bane?"

"She's my damn girlfriend. Why am I even talking to you?" Bane fished his cell phone from the clip and dialed. "Yes, Security, there's an intruder on my yacht, and I need her removed immediately!" his voice increased.

_Who's she?_ A tinge of jealousy crept up inside Bianca, and at that moment she realized that Bane had already stolen a piece of her heart _._

"OH, SO now I'm an intruder? You ain't 'bout shit, Bane Balfour!" Courtney yelled. "Is this your new plaything?" she asked, looking Bianca up and down as if she wanted to chop off her head.

Bane grinded his teeth in fury. "Security is on the way. I suggest you get your things and leave."

Courtney stuck her middle finger up in Bane's face. "I'm so glad I took a restraining order out on you."

"Me, too. Now stay away from me."

Courtney pointed her finger in Bane's face. "No, you stay away from me. Do you hear me, Bane Balfour? Stay away from me!" She narrowed her eyes at Bianca. "The least you could've done was get somebody that looked better than me. I feel sorry for you, miss thang." She hurried over to the closet, snatched her clothes from the hanger, and ran down the hallway.

Bane breathed harshly. _Courtney is crazy as hell. A damn stalker._ As soon as he dropped Bianca off, he was going to head straight to the police station and file a report against Courtney.

Bane noticed Bianca's face was clouded with uneasiness. "I'm sorry about that," he apologized.

"Who was she?"

"My ex. We didn't really date. Just somebody I was fooling around with."

"She's extremely angry with you."

"Yeah. But she has no right to be. From the beginning, I was honest with Courtney and told her that she and I were only friends, and that's all we'd ever be. I guess she didn't believe me." He pushed his anger aside. "So are you ready to take a boat ride with me?"

Bianca crisscrossed her arms across her chest and caressed her arms. "I think you should take me home, Bane."

Bane cussed. "I'm being serious when I say I'm done with Courtney. She means nothing to me."

"Even if you were telling the truth, I'm not ready to get involved with anyone. My husband just died not too long ago, and it's too soon for me to be dating. Especially a man that has someone already."

"I said I'm not dating her!" he snapped.

Bianca flinched.

Bane inhaled deeply. "I'm sorry for raising my voice. I'm just frustrated. I was really looking forward to sailing the waters with you."

"Maybe another time."

Damn Courtney for ruining his day with Bianca. His cell phone buzzed. "Hello?"

"Dad!" Katie shouted.

He walked over to the window. "What's wrong, Katie?"

"The police just showed up at Piper's house. I'm scared, Dad." Katie sounded shaken.

"Slow down, Katie. Tell me what happened."

"Please don't be mad, Dad. Piper begged me to go to this party with her last night. Her mother was asleep, so we sort of snuck out of the house. And somebody died while we were at the party."

Bane raked his hand through his hair. "Somebody died? Jesus Christ. Who?"

"Jada."

"Jada! The girl who you got into a fight with at school?"

Katie whined, "Yes. But I didn't do anything to her, Dad. I promise I didn't."

_I know you didn't._ "Don't say one word to the police. I'm on my way." He hung up.

Bianca touched Bane's shoulder. "You look worried. What's wrong?"

"It's Katie. I have to go."

Bane drove to Bianca's home and dropped her off. Ten minutes later, he arrived at Piper's home. He flung open the car door and hopped out.

Walking briskly towards the porch, he looked beyond the glass door and spotted two police officers inside the house. Piper's mother, Gwenneth, opened the front door. A sad look was on her face.

"Thank God you're here," Gwenneth spoke in a hushed whisper.

"What's going on?" Bane asked.

The officer standing in front of Katie had a pen and pad in his hands. "Did you and Jada exchange words during the party?"

Bane stepped in front of Katie, silencing her. "I'm Bane, Katie's daddy," he said, acknowledging himself as her father for the first time. "What's going on here?"

"I'm Officer Pickens. I'm here to investigate the sudden death of Jada Sparks. Last night, a teenage boy by the name of Connor threw a party. His parents were out of town, so there was no adult supervision. Unfortunately, during the party Jada ended up dying. It's been verified by two teenagers present at the party that Katie and Jada had an argument right before she died."

Bane's gut twisted. "What are you trying to say, Officer?"

Officer Pickens cleared his throat. "I'm not saying anything. We just want to ask Katie some questions."

Bane didn't like the sound of this. "Without the presence of my attorney, she's not answering anything. The two of you can leave now."

Officer Pickens gripped the screen door and pushed it open. His partner walked outside. "I'll be in touch." The police officers left.

"Piper," Gwenneth started. "Did you and Katie kill Jada?"

"No, Mom! How could you ask me something like that?!" Piper yelled.

A frown flitted across Gwenneth's face. "What am I supposed to think? I never thought you'd sneak out of the house, but you did."

"All teenagers sneak out of the house," Piper said grimly.

Bane stated, "The only way we can help you is if you tell us the truth. Now what happened?"

Teary eyed, Piper nodded. She sat on the couch. "To sneak out of the house was my idea. We went to the party. Danced a little. I smoked some weed."

Gwenneth's arms shot up into the air. "Weed!"

Piper sighed. "Yes, Mom, weed," sarcasm was in her voice, "everyone at school smokes weed."

"Do you smoke, Katie?" Bane sure hoped not.

Katie shook her head. "No, sir. I've never tried it."

Looking at her mother, Piper shrugged. "Well, Katie's the only one that doesn't smoke. Anyway, I went outside, and when I came back inside, Jada was on the dance floor dancing. The next thing I knew, she'd fallen to the ground and died."

Bane wanted to hear Katie's side. "Why were Jada and you arguing?"

Katie looked overwhelmed. "Jada got mad at me because her boyfriend asked me to dance with him. She was the one that started the argument."

Bane looked at Gwenneth. "I'm sorry Katie disrespected your home by sneaking out. It'll never happen again. Katie, isn't there something you have to say to Gwenneth?"

Wringing her hands, Katie nodded. "I'm sorry, Mrs. Gwenneth."

Gwenneth crossed her arms over her chest. "I just pray to God that Piper and you are telling the truth and didn't hurt Jada."

Katie held up her right hand. "We're telling the truth. I promise."

Bane had faith in Katie. "I'm sure we don't have anything to worry about, Gwenneth. While the girls may have gotten carried away last night, they're still good girls." Bane apologized to Gwenneth for Katie's behavior again, then they left.

On his drive home while they were in the car, Bane gave Katie a very intense lecture. At one point during their conversation, he wondered if he'd bitten off more than he could chew. First Katie had gotten in trouble at school for fighting Jada, and now the police were questioning her about Jada's death. Being a foster parent was a lot of hard work.

_Am I cut out for this?_ He pulled into the driveway of Josh's friend's house. Clenching his backpack, Josh climbed in the back seat. Bane glanced in the rearview mirror to look at him.

Josh frowned. "You're so stupid, Katie! Bane was nice enough to trust us. Now because of you, I have to go home. Why would you sneak out of the house?"

Katie kept facing forward. "It wasn't my idea, Josh. Piper begged me."

"You have a mind of your own and could've said no. You're such a follower."

"Leave me alone, Josh," she whined.

"I bet Lizzy told you to sneak out. Didn't she?"

Katie's gaze narrowed as she glared at Josh. She clenched her teeth. "I haven't talked to Lizzy."

"Whatever," Josh uttered. He gazed out the window. In a low voice, he said, "I can't stand Lizzy."

Bane pulled up to the hotel. He glanced at Katie. "You're grounded."

"Grounded? For how long?"

"A month."

"A whole month!"

Josh sucked his teeth. "Just be thankful he's not sending us back to the orphanage, psycho!" He slammed the car door, then marched inside the hotel.

"I'm sorry, Dad." Crying, Katie exited the car. Holding her head down, her shoulders sagged as she walked inside the hotel.

Starting with Courtney and ending with Katie, this day had been the pits. Maybe he shouldn't have listened to Zeke and become a foster parent. Being a single man with no children was a piece of cake, and he now had a new, profound respect for mothers, especially single mothers like _his_ Bianca. Bane's heart squeezed at the thought of _his_ Bianca.

Crossing the lobby, Bane waved at the concierge, then walked onto the elevator. The ride climbed to the top. _I don't see how Bianca handles two small boys. She's a super mom. A super woman._

THE FOLLOWING day, Bianca sat on the wooden swing in the back yard with the twins on either side of her. Her bare feet touching the emerald grass, she clenched the chains and pushed off. Swinging back and forth, she smiled. One day, she was going to buy a home for her boys and put a nice swing and a tree house in the back yard for them.

"Go higher, Mommy!" Logan requested.

"Go really, really high!" Landon demanded.

Logan laughed. "Weee! Swing high to the sky!"

"Swing us up to heaven to get Daddy!" Landon said.

Bianca's smile vanished. As the swing came to a slow stop, she tried not to think of Andrew, but it was useless. She envisioned the two of them on their wedding day. Then she remembered their last argument. It'd been over money. Seconds later, she thought of how he'd looked after he'd shot himself.

A finger tapped her shoulder.

Bianca flinched. Startled, she glanced over her shoulder to find Abigail standing there smiling and holding three gift bags. "Hey. This is a nice surprise."

"I came by to drop off some presents for you and my godsons." Abigail reached down and hugged her. She held the gift bags up to Logan and Landon's face. Extracting their presents, the twins smiled. She'd bought them each a race car.

Logan ripped open the package. "I got a yellow one."

"And I got a blue one." Landon held his car up to Bianca's face.

"Boys, where are your manners?" Bianca asked.

"Thank you, Godmommy."

"You're welcome," Abigail said, kissing their cheeks one at a time.

Bianca needed some alone time with Abigail, so she decided to send the boys in the house. "Why don't you boys go inside the house and play with your new toys?"

Logan and Landon ran along the grass, then hurried indoors.

Abigail sat beside Bianca. "I have a little something for you." She handed her a pink gift bag.

Inside the bag was a white box. Bianca lifted the lid. On the cotton lay a necklace with a silver heart pendant. The word "Hope" was engraved on the heart.

"It's beautiful. Thanks, Abigail."

"Let the necklace serve as a symbol of hope. Hope for you to be happy one day. Hope for you to find peace through your storm. And hope for you to understand that Bane Balfour has been sent to you by God." Abigail laughed.

Bianca's laugh mixed in with Abigail's. "You're so funny, Abigail."

"I know, right?"

"You're such a good friend. I just love you." Showing up bearing gifts, Abigail always went above and beyond to make her feel good. She couldn't ask for a better friend.

Abigail rested her elbow on the curb on the wooden bench. "I love you, too." Her lips split into a smile. "So tell me...how was your date with your boyfriend, the billionaire?"

"He's not my boyfriend."

"Not yet, he isn't. So how was it?"

"For starters, I got drunk and made a fool of myself."

"Shut the front door. Did you have drunk in love sex?"

Beyonce's song _Drunk In Love_ came to Bianca's mind. "No. But we came close. When I woke up in his bed, the only thing I had on was my underwear."

"You woke up in his bed!" Bianca nodded. "This story is juicy, juicy, juicy. Tell me more."

Starting with Friday night all the way up to Saturday afternoon at the boat dock, Bianca provided Abigail with every single detail. She didn't leave out one thing.

"And that's it?"

"Yes, thankfully. That was plenty of drama for me."

Abigail clasped Bianca's hands. "Oh, friend, Bane and you are going to make a wonderful couple someday."

"Considering Andrew died and Bane just broke up with Courtney, I seriously doubt our relationship will ever get far."

"As long as you keep cleaning up his penthouse and falling asleep in his bed like your name is Snow White, you'll get him to succumb to your ever dying need. So tell me, Snow White...although you already have two precious dwarfs, do you think you'll ever get pregnant again and have five more?"

"No, I don't, Fairy Godmother." Laughter filled the outdoor air. "However, if I ever decide to have a little girl, I'll be sure to name her Abigail Hope."

"Balfour," Abigail completed the sentence.

She must admit, _Abigail Hope Balfour_ did have a nice ring to it.

Bianca's cell phone vibrated. She slid it from her front jean pocket. It was a text from Bane.

**Bane:** Hi.

**Bianca:** Hey.

**Bane:** Up for that boat ride today?

She glanced up at Abigail. "This is Bane texting me. He wants to take me for a ride on the boat today."

"You have to go, Bianca. Being with a man like Bane is a once in a lifetime opportunity."

"I just hate having to ask my parents to babysit again."

"I'll keep them for you."

"Thanks, but I have to keep our relationship strictly professional. I can't give in to him," she said, typing her reply into the cell phone.

**Bianca:** Thanks for the offer, but I have plans today.

**Bane:** Enjoy your day, beautiful.

**Bianca:** You too.

Bane was such a charming man. If he kept up his strong tactics, she just may end up in his bed. Knowing this, she had to stay away from him and his bed.

"I told him no."

Abigail's head tilted. "He's not going to give up on you. He's going to keep pushing and pushing until he gets you into his bed and make wild, passionate love to you. As soon as Bane touches you, you're going to cum."

Bianca's mouth fell open. "You're so right."

"I know, friend."

"It's been so long since I've had sex. He was too busy having sex with her," she said, referring to Andrew's mistress. Silence grew between them.

Bianca's light mood turned heavy and cumbersome. "I wish I knew who Andrew's mistress was? For all I know, she could be a friend. Or a neighbor. Or someone I work with."

"Have you ever checked Andrew's computer? Or cell phone records?"

Bianca shook her head. "You know I'm not tech savvy."

"But I am."

"Will you help me?"

"You know I will. Where's Andrew computer?"

"In the garage."

Bianca and Abigail went to the garage. Boxes were stacked against the wall inside the garage. A lawnmower sat in the corner. Bianca pulled Andrew's laptop from a box and placed it on the desk.

Abigail sat in front of the computer as Bianca stood behind her. A login box popped up on the screen. "What do you think his login might be?"

"His first and last name."

Abigail typed in Andrew Riesling.

"Okay, what do you think his password is?"

"Try the kids' names." She typed in the kids' names, but that wasn't it. They then tried cracking the code by trying his birthday, then the place were they'd honeymooned. Neither of those worked either.

"People often associate their passwords with something they care about. What did Andrew care about?"

"All Andrew cared about was himself. He referred to himself as the MacDaddy."

"Well, let's type in MacDaddy and see what happens." Abigail typed in the word MacDaddy. Bling. The icon spun as the computer sprung to life. "We're in."

"Told you he only cared about himself," Bianca said with sarcasm, "click on his email."

Abigail clicked the email button and started scrolling through Andrew's old messages, days prior to his death. There were a ton of emails exchanged between Andrew and some kelizabeth@hotmail.com.

"This must be her," Abigail said, clicking on the email from kelizabeth@hotmail.com.

As Bianca read the email, her stomach churned with acid.

To: Andrew@andrewriesling.com

From: kelizabeth@hotmail.com

Subject: About last night

Hey baby. Last night was so much fun. You sure know how to make love. The way you touched me made me feel so good. Oh yeah, thanks for the money you left at the hotel. Xoxo.

Your girl,

Kelizabeth

Bianca put a hand to her stomach. "I think I'm going to be sick."

Abigail glanced up at Bianca. "Maybe you shouldn't read anymore."

"I need to face the truth. Go to his sent box so I can read his reply." She tried to mentally brace herself for Andrew's response to this Kelizabeth woman.

To: kelizabeth@hotmail.com

From: Andrew@andrewriesling.com

Subject: About last night

Good morning my beautiful sunshine. I'm glad you enjoyed the way I licked your pussy last night. Making love to you is always a joy. Take the money and go buy yourself something sexy to wear for the next time I see you.

Andrew

Bianca suddenly felt weak and vulnerable. She seethed with anger and humiliation. Her husband had been living a double life, and she never suspected it. Until it was too late.

Abigail glanced into her eyes. "Would you like to read more?"

Bianca shrugged. "Might as well."

To: Andrew@andrewriesling.com

From: kelizabeth@hotmail.com

Subject: What's taking you so long

Hey. Did you get a chance to talk to the attorney today about divorcing Bianca? I hope so. This way we can get married and try to have our own family. Let me know how it went.

Your girl,

Kelizabeth

To: kelizabeth@hotmail.com

From: Andrew@andrewriesling.com

Subject: What's taking you so long

Hey K. I spoke with my attorney today and he said that it's going to cost me a lot to get out of the divorce. So I'm trying to think of a way to end it without going broke. Let me know if you come up with an idea. I'm dying for us to be together as husband and wife.

Andrew

Bianca's eyes watered. Sadness quickly yielded to fury. "That's enough. I can't read anymore. He was going to divorce me for her. How could I have been so blind?" Putting her fingers to her mouth, she turned to face the wall. "Andrew made a fool out of me. He hated being married to me so much, he killed himself."

Abigail put her hands on Bianca's shoulders and gestured her to turn around. "Andrew didn't even like himself. And when you don't like yourself, you can't love anyone else."

"I always felt like he loved his sons."

"Maybe he did."

"I hate Andrew. I hate Kelizabeth." Her nostrils flared with anger.

"Bianca, I know it's hard, but don't hate them. Hating only consumes you on the inside. It eats you up and tears you apart. You have to forgive Andrew and his mistress."

"Forgive them?" Bianca faced Abigail.

"Yes. Forgive them. Forgiveness is not for them, it's for you." Abigail pressed a finger to Bianca's heart. "So you can be happy and live a fulfilling life. Take back your happiness, Bianca. You deserve it. Your boys deserve it."

Abigail's presence comforted Bianca. "You're right...I have to be happy for my boys. And I will. But first I'm going to let Kelizabeth know exactly how I feel." Bianca sat down in front of the computer. She clicked the cursor in the message box. Using Andrew's email, she began typing.

To: kelizabeth@hotmail.com

From: Andrew@andrewriesling.com

Subject: It's me. Andrew's Widower

Dear Kelizabeth,

Initially, your disgusting affair with my husband left me broken and scarred. However, after reading the emails exchanged between the two of you, I've decided to take back my power and live a fulfilling life. I will NOT shed another tear over what the two of you did to me.

Kelizabeth... You're nothing but a cheesy whore. You destroyed my beautiful family.

Trust and believe, you're the reason Andrew is dead!

May you rot in hell,

Bianca

Abigail clapped. "That's telling her ass off, friend."

Pleased with her email, Bianca clicked the send button. "Andrew didn't care about me, so I'm not going to waste another minute caring about him. I'm taking back my life, and I'm going on that date with Bane." Cell phone in hand, Bianca texted Bane.

**Bianca:** If you're still available, I'd like to take the boat ride.

**Bane:** I'm free. Can you be ready by 3?

**Bianca:** Sure.

**Bane:** I'll pick you up at 3.

**Bianca:** Looking forward to seeing you.

**Bane:** Same here beautiful

Bane's last text made Bianca blush. "Bane is such a charmer. He called me beautiful."

"That's because you are. Now let's go look in your closet for something sexy to wear."

"Me? Sexy? I don't think so."

"You might not think so, but Bane does."

Laughing, the two of them headed inside the house.

KATIE SAT on her bed reading a thriller novel entitled _Private Games,_ by James Patterson. Intrigued by the raw story line, she flipped the page. Oh boy, she knew who the killer was. For once, someone other than Lizzy was killing people.

Bam! The door to her room slammed shut. Katie lowered the book to her lap. Her brother was standing there looking mad.

"Where is she?" Josh barked.

"Who?" Bending the page, she closed the book and placed it beside her on the bed.

Josh sat on the bed next to Katie. All up in her personal space, his eyes narrowed. He pressed his lips together. "Your stupid, deranged ego Lizzy. Tell her to come out right now. I need to speak with her."

Katie put a finger to her lips. "Shhh. Be quiet. If Daddy hears you, he's going to think I'm crazy."

Josh got in Katie's face. "That's because you are crazy. I know you killed Jada. Admit it."

"That's absurd, Josh."

Josh fisted Katie's shirt and yanked. "Either you killed her, or Lizzy did." He raised his fist to her face. "Now tell me which one before I smash your head in."

"Okay. Okay. Lizzy did it."

Jumping off the bed, he threw his hands up. "Jesus Christ, Katie. For once we get an opportunity to start all over, and you go and mess it up. Why can't you be normal? Why can't you be good?"

"I am good, Josh. It's Lizzy. She's the one who's bad. She's the one that keeps telling me to do all this crazy stuff."

"When's the last time you've taken your meds?"

"I stop taking them a long time ago. They made me nauseous and sleepy."

"Katie, we have to tell Bane about your medication. You can't function without it."

She clutched his shoulders. "You can't tell Dad that I'm on medication, because then he'll know I was diagnosed with a brain disorder."

"Let's get one thing straight, Bane is not our father. He's our temporary guardian. Point number two--I hate to break it to you, sis...but you're bipolar." He circled his finger near his ear, indicating she was crazy. "And your recent act proves you've gone coo-coo for Coco Puffs."

Katie hugged Josh. "Please don't tell Daddy. If you don't, I promise to clean your room for a whole year."

"We have a maid for that."

"I'll cook for you."

"We have a chef for that."

"I'll do your homework and your school projects."

Josh prided Katie away from him. "Now we have a deal." He stuck out his hand, and Katie shook. He pointed his finger in Katie's face. "But if you hurt anyone else, as much as I love you, I'm not going to protect you. Stop hurting people."

"Thank you so much, Josh. You're always here for me."

"I know. But at some point, you're going to have to do right. Our livelihood depends on it. Bane has given us the world. Please don't let Lizzy mess up the best thing that's ever happened to us. Please."

"I won't. Love you."

"Whatever. Just get yourself together." Exiting the room, he shut the door.

As Katie stood at her bedroom window gazing out at the ocean, she thought about everything Josh had just said. She knew her brother was right. She had to get a grip on Lizzy's bad behavior. First, Lizzy had killed Andrew. Then, she'd killed Jada. Oh yeah, she'd stabbed her own father, too.

"Lizzy," Katie mumbled. "Come here."

_What?_ Lizzy snapped.

Katie whirled. Lizzy's reflection appeared in the dresser's mirror. Putting her hips on her waist, Lizzy shifted her weight.

Katie glared at Lizzy. _You're a bad influence on me, so I'm breaking up with you._

_You can't break up with me. I'm inside your head, stupid._ Lizzy's mannerism came across as cold.

_If you don't stop coming inside my head, I'm going to go back on medication and make you disappear._

Lizzy pouted. _Even if you take the medicine, I'll still be in your head._ She stuck out her tongue.

_Yeah, but you won't be as strong with the meds._

_You'll be a fool to let Josh's words get to you. You need me,_ Lizzy said with unwelcome frankness.

_For what?_

_For protection._

Although this was serious and getting out of control, Katie laughed to cover her annoyance. _I don't need you for protection. I can protect myself._

Bleep. Katie's cell phone chirped. She walked over to the bed and picked up her cell phone. Noticing she had a new email message, she tapped the Hotmail icon. She gasped. Stunned, she read the email.

To: kelizabeth@hotmail.com

From: Andrew@andrewriesling.com

Subject: It's me. Andrew's Widower

Dear Kelizabeth,

Initially, your disgusting affair with my husband left me broken. However, after reading the emails exchanged between the two of you, I've decided to take back my power and live a fulfilling life. I will NOT shed another tear over what the two of you did to me, and my beautiful children.

Kelizabeth... You're nothing but a cheesy whore.

Trust and believe, you're the reason Andrew is dead!

May you rot in hell,

Bianca

Lizzy stumped her foot. _Bianca called us a cheesy whore and told us to rot in hell._

_So what?_

Lizzy's evil stare burned through Katie. _So what? The bitch cleans up this room, that's what. It's probably only a matter of time before she puts two and two together. She hates us. She's out to get us. We have to get her first._

_I'm done with the killing, Lizzy. Goodbye._ Katie closed her eyes and forced Lizzy out of her mind. When she reopened them, Lizzy was gone. Hopefully forever.

Hating she was on punishment, she climbed onto the bed, picked up her _James Patterson_ novel, and picked up where she'd left off.

The door softly cracked open, and Bane emerged inside the bedroom. He wore a nice pair of light blue jeans and a white shirt. "I'm going out for a while. I'll be back around nine. You are not allowed to do anything while I'm gone. Do I make myself clear?"

"Yes. Are you going out on a date?"

"As a matter of fact, I am."

"That's good. With who?"

"With a good friend of mine." He left.

SAILBOATS CRUISED the sea. Clouds floated past the bright sun. The afternoon temperature was a perfect seventy-eight degrees. Steering the yacht along the treading water, Bane glimpsed at Bianca. His heart jostled.

Seemingly in deep thought, as she held onto the rail, her gaze was focused on the water. Wind brushed hair across her soft lips. "The breeze feels good," she said, transferring her gaze to him.

"So does being here with you. Thanks for taking me up on my invitation to join me today."

She offered him a beautiful smile, revealing sparkling white teeth. "I should be thanking you. I didn't realize how much I needed to get out and have some fun."

"If you keep hanging around me, I'll try my hardest to show you a good time."

"Is that an invitation to another date?"

Taken by her astounding beauty, he leaned into her. "It is. It's an invitation to do this, too." Keeping his hands on the wheel, Bane went in for the kiss. Their lips touched. He moved his mouth side to side, then plundered his tongue inside her mouth. She latched on and curled her tongue with his. Swirling. Flicking. Sucking. Their kiss now had a certain intimacy to it. Hot fire coursed through Bane's veins and shot to his loins. His shaft stiffened.

Bianca ended their kiss. She placed a hand on his chest, her breathing uneven. Uncertainty besieged her eyes. "I wasn't expecting that."

He smiled. "Hope I didn't overstep my boundaries."

"You're fine."

"Thank you. I work hard to get this body," he joked. Bianca laughed, and Bane did, too.

Her eyes roamed over his chest. Then she observed his arms. "From the looks of your body, it looks like you endure a healthy regimen of exercise and proper diet."

"I do. I try to exercise at least five times a week."

"I used to have time to exercise, but now that I'm back to work, I hardly have time to do anything."

_I'm going to have to change that._ "There's a gym at the hotel. Employees are allowed to use it."

"I know. It's hard to squeeze it in during breaks."

"Not if the boss tells you to take as long a break as you'd like."

Her hands slipped from the rail to her hips. "Okay. No man is this nice. What do you want from me?"

Bane steered the yacht up to the dock and parallel parked it. Pushing a button, he lowered the anchor in the water. Clenching her chin, he tilted her head back to stare into her eyes. "That's not true. Some men are nice, and I'd like to think I'm one of them. But to answer your question, what I want from you is your time, and an opportunity to get to know you better."

"Is that it?"

Need surged Bane. "Not quite. A few more of these would be nice." He pressed his lips to her mouth, slipped his tongue inside, and swirled. Bianca's lips were soft as satin, and her tongue was smooth as silk. Her tantalizing kisses made his body catch fire. Made him want to scoop her up in his arms and carry her to the bedroom below the deck.

Deepening their kiss, intense pleasure spread through Bane's bones. His shaft knotted. In due time, he was going to make love to Bianca and make her scream his name at the top of her lungs.

Feasting heartily on Bane's mouth, Bianca's consciousness seemed to ebb, then flame more distinct than ever. Pleasure radiated outward as her sex clenched. She felt moisture slip from her opening into her panties. Goodness gracious, Bane's searing kiss was threatening to make her have an orgasm. She was melting. Aroused. She couldn't stop the kiss. Even if she tried, she wouldn't be able to.

Bane severed their kiss. Intense breaths escaped Bianca. Putting a hand to her chest, Bianca willed her heartbeat to slow down. She'd never found any man's kiss as wonderful as Bane's.

"You're a fantastic kisser, Bianca."

"So are you, Bane."

It was then that she realized they'd docked at the rear of a shopping plaza. Made up of about eight stores, the grey building looked quaint and fancy. Like something you'd see in a ritzy town such as Martha Vineyard.

He stepped over the boat's edge onto the wooden dock. "I have a surprise for you." He outstretched his hands towards her.

"For me? What is it?" Putting her hands to his shoulders, he clenched her hips, then lowered her to the ground beside him.

"You'll see in a few seconds."

Curiosity got the best of Bianca as they walked to the front of the plaza. Fifteen seconds later, they entered _Bella Charles_ , an upscale women's clothing store. The clothing tables were made up of glass, and diamond chandeliers hung from the ceilings. Elegant ball gowns aligned the walls. Fancy dresses, pants, blouses, and casual clothing were positioned throughout the rest of the store.

_Wow. Just look at this store._ Why had Bane brought her in here? She didn't have to look at the price tags to know she couldn't afford anything.

The dark haired woman behind the register smiled, then came to greet them. "Hi, Bane."

"Hi, Lorie. This is Bianca. The woman I was telling you about." Bianca was momentarily confused. "Bianca, I hired Lorie to be your personal stylist."

"Nice meeting you, Bianca. I've heard so many wonderful things about you. I'll be right back." Lorie disappeared to the back.

Her personal stylist? Gee whiz. She knew she dressed bad, but dang. "My personal stylist? For what?" Did he have plans for them to go somewhere?

"Nothing in particular. You'd mentioned that you hadn't worked in a long time and needed to spruce up your wardrobe. So I thought I'd help you out."

Once more, she scanned all the beautiful clothing. "Bane, while I appreciate your thoughtfulness, I can't accept a gift of this nature. It's too much." _Way too soon._

"Bianca, you've been through a lot lately. You lost your husband. Your home. You're raising two children by yourself, twins at that. Most women would have lost their minds by now, but you're still holding on. Let me do something nice for you."

"But I don't need any fancy clothing."

"Unless you plan on turning down my date to Paris, you're going to need something to wear."

"Paris? Wait, you're taking me to Paris?"

"Yes, Paris. Balfour Enterprises has a hotel in Paris. I have a meeting there in a few weeks and would love for you to join me."

Bianca was baffled. "I don't know what to say."

"Yes would be nice."

Bianca smiled. "So Boss, can I have the day off to be with the nicest man I know?"

Bane's lips lifted. "I demand you do so."

Lorie reappeared, wheeling a clothing rack from the back. She waved Bianca over. A mixture of casual, sport, and dressy attire aligned the glass rack.

"I picked out some things I thought would look nice on you. What would you like to try on first?" Lorie asked.

As Bianca's hand glided over the clothing, they swayed back and forth. "Everything is so pretty. I don't know where to start."

"Try on the red dress." Bane sat on the sofa in front of the dressing room.

Lorie handed Bianca the red dress. "The red dress looks really pretty on."

Inside the dressing room, Bianca removed her clothing and tried on the red dress. Looking at her reflection in the mirror, a smile came to her face. The off the shoulder red dress had dramatic angled sleeves and made her body look sensuous. Right now, she'd never felt prettier.

"Come out and let me see you." Bane's request sounded more like a demand, but she didn't mind.

She pushed open the door and walked onto the platform. Bane's eyes danced. "Whoa. You look sexy. Sensual. Turn around." Feeling like a princess, she spun around. "She'll take it."

Lorie smiled. "I knew it'd look good on you. We have it in white, too."

"She'll keep the red." Bane's brusque demand let Bianca know he was a take charge kind of man and was used to getting his way with women.

Bane's eyes remained glued on her. With his arms gliding on the curb of the sofa, he spread his legs wide. The bulge beneath his pants resembled a heavily weighted prize trophy.

Bianca's body reacted. Thrown into sensitive overdrive, her labia quivered. She swallowed. He had to stop making her body behave in such a manner.

Piece by piece, Bianca tried on the clothing for Bane. Twirling around for him and acting like she was a model, she'd forgotten all about her problems. Because he'd liked everything she'd tried on for him, Bane insisted on purchasing every single piece. At the end of her shopping spree, as she stood to the counter beside him, the register calculated his bill to be a whopping _$9,546.87._

As Bane draped the bag containing the dresses over his shoulder, Bianca grabbed the other three bags from the glass counter. After thanking Lorie for her assistance, they headed for the door. Pushing open the door, he stepped to the side, allowing her to exit first.

"I still feel like this is way too much, Bane. These clothes and jewelry are too expensive."

"Trust me, it's not. When is the last time a man has spoiled you?" It'd been so long, she couldn't remember. When she didn't respond, he said, "That's what I thought."

After they locked the bags inside the boat's closet, they had an early dinner at _Mambo Italiano_. Sitting on the patio, they started with an appetizer of delicious calamari. For his main entree, he'd ordered the veal parmigiana over linguine pasta. She'd had a mozzarella and tomato pizza and house salad.

The conversation between them flowed easy. Bane filled her in on his family's history, starting with how his father had gotten into the hotel business. Avoiding speaking about his mother, she could tell he loved his father and brother and stepmother. He loved family, period. He'd make a good husband to some lucky girl, but she was sure that girl would never be her. Men like him just didn't marry girls like her. Well, considering she never wanted to marry again, it didn't matter.

Bianca sipped on the red wine. _He's such a wonderful man._

Bane swirled the red wine, then topped off his glass. __ "So that's enough about me. Let's talk about you. Did they ever find out who shot your husband?"

Shock flew through Bianca. She'd told Bane that Andrew had been shot, but she didn't go into detail. She lowered the half-empty glass to the table. Struggling with the right words to say, she diverted her gaze to the flowing water fountain. How did she tell him that Andrew had killed himself? This was so embarrassing.

Fixating her gaze on Bane's face, Bianca swallowed. "Andrew...he...ummm... he committed suicide."

Bane's eyes mellowed subtly. "I'm sorry. Had I known, I wouldn't have asked."

She nodded. "He didn't leave a note or anything, but I think he did it because he couldn't handle the stress of the bills and a wife and children. We were too much for Andrew."

Bane dragged his napkin across his mouth and placed it on the table. "I hope you don't blame yourself for what your husband did to himself." Knowing she did, she gave him a blank stare. "Only a coward would leave his wife and children in such devastating manner. If you ask me, Andrew's behavior is downright deplorable."

"My sentiments exactly."

Gazing into her eyes, he cupped the back of her hand. "No man in his right mind would ever hurt a woman like you. And the last time I went to the doctor, he assured me I had a right frame of mind." Bane stood.

Bianca dabbled the napkin at the corners of her mouth. She scooted her chair back. "Is that so?" she asked, standing.

"Yep. He told me my head was functioning quite well." He closed in on her. Towering over her, he smooched her lips. "He said both of my heads were good." His breath fanning her lips, he pressed his erection into her stomach.

_My. Oh. My._

A vaguely sensuous light passed between them.

Short minutes later, they returned to the yacht. She descended the deck behind him. Following him into the bedroom, he led her to the foot of the bed. He cupped her face. "I'm not ready to take you home. Spend the night with me on the boat."

Contemplating her decision, she turned to walk over to the window. While she'd love to spend the night with Bane, she didn't know if she was ready to have sex with him. Who was she kidding, she wanted to. But she felt it was way too soon.

The moment Bane came to stand behind Bianca, she felt his tall, domineering presence. Her breathing increasing, her heart fluttered. His near presence struck a vibrant chord in her, making her sex wet.

Bane sleeked his arms about Bianca's waist. "Don't feel pressured. If you can't, I understand."

She turned within his embrace to face him. "More than anything, I'd love to spend the night with you. I just don't know if--"

"You're ready for me to make love to you." As if reading her mind, he finished her sentence. She nodded. "I'd be lying if I said I didn't want to make love to you and pleasure your body till I bring you the most profound orgasm you've ever had. However, I can wait."

"You can?"

He cupped her cheeks. "Yeah. Please spend the night with me. Let me hold you till the sun comes up."

Bianca agreed to Bane's request. She called Abigail to see if the boys could spend the night, and of course Abigail was thrilled to pitch in. She was even more thrilled to know she was spending the night with Bane.

Bane then put in a phone call to his secretary, Gretchen, and asked if she'd go keep an eye out on Josh and Katie for the rest of the evening. Gretchen had been happy to pitch in.

Slow dancing on the top deck, they watched the sun lower to the horizon. A backsplash of purple and red hues colored the sky. Nightfall fell upon them, making the mood sultry and romantic. Making her wonder if she'd be able to keep her legs closed.

Done with dancing, they headed back downstairs and took separate showers. She put on a pink nightgown she'd gotten from _Bella Charles._ Shirtless _,_ he'd put on a pair of navy boxers. Seeing all those hard chest muscles drove her crazy. Made her body hot. Tempted to make her change her mind about having sex with him.

Bane turned back the covers, and they climbed in bed. Lord knows, she didn't see how this was going to work. As they sat in bed sharing a slice of strawberry cheesecake, a slow song streamed from the Bose speaker on the nightstand. Joy filled Bianca.

Bane held the dessert plate. Using a fork, he cut a small piece of cheesecake and fed it to Bianca. Wrapping her lips around the utensil, she savored the sweet strawberry glaze. Mmm. It was so good. She bet sucking the cheesecake off Bane's shaft would taste even better. Dear Lord, she shouldn't be thinking like that, but she couldn't help it.

He lowered the empty dish to the nightstand and clicked off the lamp.

Bianca and Bane slid beneath the covers. When she rolled onto her side, he snuggled his chest against her back and drew her closer. Glows of the full moon shined through the window and cast a circle on them.

Staring at the black night, a tear formed in her eye. Being in Bane's strong arms felt wonderful. Safe. Right. Tonight, he offered her a sense of protection. Something she hadn't had in a long time.

"Mrs. Riesling, you feel like heaven in my arms." Bane pecked her nape, causing her insides to spark with electricity.

She rolled onto her side. Cupping his face, she smiled. "And you, Mr. Balfour, feel like my type of guy."

"That's because I am your guy." He snuggled his face into the nook of her nape.

Bianca closed her eyes. For the first time since she'd met Bane, it felt okay to be with him in an intimate manner. Feeling like she was the luckiest girl alive, she finally drifted off to sleep.

TWO MONTHS later, Bane pulled his car into the driveway of his father's home and cut the motor. Mounting the steps, a crisp autumn breeze stirred the air. He rang the doorbell. Bane waved at the neighbor next door when he came out of the house.

The front door opened, and Leslie appeared. "Hey, Bane. It's so good to see you."

"It's good to see you, too, Leslie." Stepping over the threshold, he entered the living room. "Something smells delicious."

Leslie smiled. "I'm baking a homemade peach cobbler for Colton."

Colton came from the kitchen and walked into the living room. "She's cooking a mean meatloaf, with baby red mashed potatoes, too. You're just in time for lunch. Care to join me?"

"I think I will." Bane hadn't planned on eating lunch, only talking with his dad; however, the flavorful aroma floating in the air beckoned him to do otherwise.

Bane followed Colton to the screened-in patio. Colton sat at the circular table. "So what brings you by?"

"I have something serious I want to speak to you about." He pulled the chair from beneath the table and sat. He gazed at the neatly cut grass in the back yard, covered with orange leaves.

Colton cleared his throat. "Uh oh. This sounds serious."

"It is." Wondering where to start, Bane transferred his gaze from the back yard to his father. "I met someone..." His words trailed off. "Her name is Bianca. And--"

Releasing a hearty chuckle, Colton slapped his thigh. "Hot smoking damn. You're in love. Aren't you, son?"

Bane chortled. "I'm not sure what it is I'm feeling for her, Dad. I was hoping you could shed some light on my situation. How does a man know when he's in love?"

"The way you feel about this girl is written all over your face, and I can hear it in your voice. But to answer your question, there's all kinds of signs that let a man know when he's in love. For instance, if you can't stop thinking about her, that's a good tell-tale sign. If you want to be with her every second of the day, that's another good indicator. But the most important one, in my opinion is...if you can't stomach the thought of her being with another man...then she just may be the one that's stolen your heart."

Leslie entered the room, carrying two plates. She set their meals in front of them. "You two enjoy now, you hear?"

"Thanks, Leslie," Bane stated, eyeing the meatloaf and mashed potatoes on his dish.

"You're welcome," she replied.

Love for Leslie filled Colton's eyes as he looked at her. "Thanks, darling. This sure looks good."

"I hope it tastes as good as it looks. Save room for the peach cobbler." Leslie went back inside the house.

After Colton blessed the food, he carved the corner of the meatloaf with his fork. "So can you stomach the thought of your girl being with another man?"

_Hell no!_ "No, I can't."

"And do you want to spend all your free time with her?"

Bane held the fork with meatloaf to his lips. "Yeah." He forked the food into his mouth. The brown gravy on the meat was rich and creamy and simply delicious. "Her husband died a few months ago and left her in a bad financial situation. It was so bad, she had to move back in with her parents. If she didn't have two young boys to think about, I'd let her stay on the yacht until she got on her feet." Maybe he should buy Bianca a house.

Colton's brows raised inquiringly. "You'd let her stay on your yacht?"

Bane nodded. "Yeah."

"Yeah, you're crazy about this woman. You said she was a widow. Does she have any kids?"

"Yeah. Two twin boys. I haven't met them yet."

"You still want to date her although she has two kids?"

Bane gave his head a nod. "I could care less about her having kids. I love children. That's why I got temporary guardianship over Josh and Katie. I like Bianca for her personality. And her good heart. Unlike some of the gold diggers I've dated before, she seems appreciative of the little things in life."

"Sounds like you're in love to me. So when do I get to meet this special young lady?"

"Depending on how things go after I meet her children, hopefully soon."

"With her two kids and your two children, if things work out between the two of you, y'all going to be like them dang ol' Kardashians. Just have a house full of people."

Chuckling, Bane picked up the glass of iced tea and gulped it down. As he sat at the table eating the rest of his food, he considered adopting Josh and Katie and giving them a stable home. However, the last incident involving Katie and Jada had him second guessing himself. Katie was a sweet girl, and he cared for her dearly, but lately she'd been getting into a lot of trouble. Josh, on the other hand, didn't give him any problems. He was pretty much a straight and narrow kind of kid.

Colton and Bane's conversation took a turn. After making small talk about fancy cars and golf, they mostly talked about Balfour Enterprises and the uphill direction it should take. Spending time with his father always brought joy into his life.

Suddenly, Zeke emerged on the patio, holding a plate full of Leslie's good cooking. "Playing hooky from work, bro?" Lowering his dish to the table, he sat.

Bane laughed. "No. You are."

Colton smiled. "No. Both of you are."

Zeke eyed his meal smothering the dish. "I'm going to need a nap after I eat all of this."

Speaking of a nap, Bane wouldn't mind taking an afternoon cat nap with Bianca. Right now, she was at the hotel working. Maybe he'd get lucky today and finally get in her panties. While he was patient, his shaft was aching way too much lately.

Suddenly, Richmond, Bane's half-brother, appeared in the doorway. He, too, was holding a plate. Smiling, Richmond shook his head. "So this is what y'all do for a living? Eat big lunches, then go play golf."

The men's laughter intermixed.

"I don't know about them, but that's what I'm going to do," Suade, Bane's other half-brother, said, walking onto the patio carrying a plate, too.

More laughter.

Colton's face lit up. "Why, look at this. All my sons are here. Well, break out the got damn beers!"

While enjoying their meals and each other, the men sat around the table debating over who had the best football team. Afterwards, they went to the golf course, where Colton ended up winning. As the oldest in the group, and the father, Colton was ecstatic when he'd won. He'd even called Leslie on his cell phone to brag about it.

Around four-thirty in the afternoon, Bane steered his silver Jaguar SUV down Ocean Boulevard and headed towards the hotel. Bopping his head to a pop song, he neared the bus stop. The woman sitting on the bench waiting for the bus looked a lot like Bianca. Reaching the stop sign, he slowed the car. It was Bianca. What on Earth was she doing at the bus stop?

Bane called Bianca over, and she came. "Are you waiting on the bus?"

"Yes."

"Where are you headed?"

"To pick the boys up from afterschool care."

"Get in. I can take you."

Bianca opened the car door and slid onto the seat. "Thanks for taking me."

Looking into his rearview mirror, Bane drove the SUV along the street. "Is your car broke?"

"I don't have a car. After Andrew died, it got repossessed."

"So you've been catching the bus this entire time and didn't mention it to me?"

"Why would I?"

"Um...so I can help you out and buy you a car."

"That's exactly why I didn't tell you. The last thing I need is for you to buy me a car. I'm not your responsibility, Bane. I can take care of myself."

"I know you can. But it doesn't hurt to let someone who's financially able to help you out until you get on your feet. I'm getting you a car, Bianca."

"No, you're not."

_Yes, I am._ Bane didn't care what she said. No woman of his was going to walk or catch the bus. He'd be less of a man not to help her out and make sure her every need was taken care of.

Ten minutes later, Bane arrived at _Hilton Head Elementary School_. He parked the SUV in a vacant lot and let Bianca out. "I'll be right back." She shut the door, then entered the school.

One by one, yellow school buses carrying a ton of children pulled out of the bus loop. With each passing second, the car rider line shortened. Students walking home crossed the street toward the patrol.

Is this what it'd feel like picking up Bianca's children if he married her? This was a lot of responsibility, but something told him he could handle the challenge. He definitely wanted to try.

Bianca stood between her twins across the street, waiting for the patrol to signal it was okay for them to cross the sidewalk. The sight of Bianca and her two adorable sons made Bane's heart stir. Although he'd seen them in pictures, he'd never met them in person.

Holding the boy's hands, Bianca crossed the street and headed towards the SUV. When she opened the rear door, they hopped in the back seat. Bane exited the vehicle, buckled one of the twin's seatbelts, and shut the rear door.

Pushing a button on the dashboard, he cranked the engine.

Bianca buckled her seatbelt, then turned toward her children. "Boys, this is Mr. Bane." They gave Bane a precarious stare. She pointed to the child on the left. "Bane, this is Logan." She then pointed to the other boy. "And this is Landon."

"Hi, guys. How was school today?" Bane asked, backing up the SUV.

"Good," they both stated.

"Are you our uncle?" the kid named Landon asked.

Bane mentally laughed. "No. I'm your mother's friend." When traffic cleared, he pulled out onto the road. Driving along the road, he glanced into his rearview mirror and looked at the twins. They were so adorable, they brought a smile to his face.

No woman of his, with two cute little boys, was going to catch the damn bus. Whether Bianca liked it or not, he was buying her a car.

He glanced in his rearview mirror at the boys. "Do you fellas like ice cream?"

"Yes!" they shouted.

Bane glanced sideways at Bianca. "Is it okay if I take them to get some ice cream?"

"Please, Mommy, can we go?" Landon asked.

Logan put his hand in a prayer symbol. "Pretty please."

Bianca's lips curled into a pretty smile. "Normally, I don't let them eat dessert before dinner, but I'll make an exception today."

"Well, how about we get an early dinner first, then dessert?"

"That's fine."

Bane made a U-turn at the light. In just a few weeks, his life had changed for the better. If things kept progressing, there was no telling what may become of his relationship with the phenomenal woman sitting next to him. Bianca had him spun, and he hadn't even made love to her yet.

SOUNDS OF tires crunching gravel entered Bianca's ears as Bane drove up to the waterfront restaurant Katherine's and parked the SUV. According to Bane, the eatery had the freshest seafood in Hilton Head Island, and she couldn't wait to try it. Surrounded by water, _Katherine's_ sat at the end of the dock.

Bane opened the door to the restaurant, and when Bianca stepped inside, she smelled buttery bread rolls. Her stomach growled. A few moments after the waitress welcomed them, she placed a basket of cheesy bread in the center of the table. Logan and Landon dove in.

"Wait a second, boys," she placed their rolls on the saucers in front of them, "let's bless the food first."

"Can I do it, Mommy?" Logan asked.

Bianca caressed his back. "Go ahead."

Logan put his hands together and blessed the food.

"Amen," everyone said together.

"That was a nice blessing, Logan," Bane complimented.

"Thank you, Mr. Bane." He bit into the bread.

Landon tapped Bianca's arm. "The next time Mr. Bane takes us out, can I say the grace, Mommy?"

"If Bane takes us out again, then sure, you can say the grace."

"Trust me, boys, I'll be taking you out again. In fact, if your mother lets me, I'll bring you boys back here and take you fishing one day. It'd be just the boys. Would you like that?"

Nodding their heads, they smiled.

Bianca hadn't planned on introducing her children to Bane this soon and still wasn't sure it was a good idea. The last thing she needed was for her sons to take a liking to him, then he disappear like Andrew did. Making decisions as a single mother was harder than she'd ever imagined.

_Stop worrying, Bianca. Just enjoy the moment_ , she told herself.

Their food arrived. Stuffed shrimp, blackened salmon, lobster macaroni and cheese and sautéed green beans, her plate looked delicious. She forked the lobster macaroni and cheese into her mouth - and wow. Oh wow. It was so creamy and delicious. Worth every single calorie.

"This is sooo good," she said, lifting a shrimp to her mouth.

"I'm glad you like it. We stay packed with the locals. During the summer, the average wait time is two hours."

"Two hours? There's no way I can wait that long just to get a bite to eat."

"You won't have to. Anytime you want to come here, just let me know, and I'll make arrangements."

"Can we come, too, Mommy?" Logan asked.

Bane ruffled Logan's hair, then Landon's. "You guys are welcome to come, too."

"Are you our new daddy?!" Logan said it so loud, he diverted all eyes to them. Their surrounding area fell quiet.

Bianca's mind whirled. She hated what Logan had asked Bane. For him to be just five, he was very inquisitive and observant. So was Landon.

"I think he is our new daddy," Landon whispered.

Bane briefly stared at Bianca. She shrugged. Bane cleared his throat before answering. "No. I'm not your new daddy. Nor am I trying to take your father's place. However, if it's okay with you, I'd like to be your new best friend."

Logan said, "It's okay with me."

Landon grabbed a popcorn shrimp. "It's okay with me, too."

Bane was overly generous to Bianca's boys, causing her eyes to water. The way he was interacting with her children made her grateful, and he now had a very __ special place in her heart.

After they were done with their entrees, the waitress lowered four bowls of vanilla ice cream drizzled with hot fudge and gooey caramel to the table. Bianca scooped the dessert onto her spoon and ate it. Logan and Landon sat silently, tearing the ice cream up. When they were done, Bane picked up a napkin. He wiped Logan's mouth and hands, then he wiped Landon's.

Gosh, he was so attentive. "Thanks, Bane."

"For what?"

"For being you."

"I'm glad you like me, Bianca." He winked.

Bianca's stomach twirled. Like him? She did more than just like him. She was falling for him--hard--and fast.

Once dinner was over, Bane gave the boys each a quarter to purchase food to feed the fish. While standing on the dock, the twins tossed the feed into the water. Two fish shot from the water and caught it.

Later on that evening, when Bianca finally got home, it was dark outside. After instructing the boys to go inside the house to shower, Bane and she remained inside the SUV.

"The boys really enjoyed themselves this evening."

"I did, too." Bane clenched her chin. A sensual glow pooled in his eyes. "I've been dying to do this all night." Inching his head closer, he pressed his mouth to hers, then expertly delved his tongue inside.

Bianca latched on. A sense of need drove her to kiss him hard. Thrusting and twining her tongue with his, she became aroused. Her nipples pebbled. Her sex dampened. If they hadn't been in the car and at a hotel instead, she'd probably have sex with him. What woman wouldn't?

Bane put his forehead to Bianca's and panted on her lips. "You drive me wild, Bianca. I want to make love to you so bad. When do you think you'll be ready?"

A part of her felt she was ready now. "Soon."

"It's hard waiting. But take as much time as you need."

"Thanks for being patient."

"You're worth the wait." Using his sharp razor teeth, he clenched her bottom lip. Her sex quivered. "Now that I've met your kids, I want you to meet mine."

"I've already met Katie."

"Yeah. You met her as the maid. I think it's high time you meet her as my woman." Before she could respond, Bane slanted his mouth over hers and tongued her down. As Bane devoured every part of her mouth, a dull ache formed in her moist center. She wanted Bane bad--right freaking now.

Breathing erratically, she broke their kiss. Hotter than a firecracker, she longed to feel his manhood buried deep inside her. "Thanks for the date. Drive safe." She pecked his lips, then climbed out of the car.

Bianca stood on the porch and watched Bane as he drove off. She entered the house and walked down the hallway towards her bedroom. Bane hadn't been gone even five seconds yet, and she already missed him.

Halfway to her room, Sandra accidentally bumped into her. Sandra smiled. "I saw you outside kissing Bane in the car. Ooo-wee. I'm so happy for you."

She felt ashamed. "Mom! Were you spying on me?"

"No, I wasn't. When the boys came inside alone, I went looking for you. And that's when I saw it--Bane and you kissing. He's the one, Bianca."

Bianca shook her head. "It's nothing serious. We're just friends, Mom."

"Some kind of friend he is. What kind of man takes a woman and her two children on a date? A man that likes you a lot, that's who."

"You really think so?"

"I know so, sweetheart. I'm so happy for you." Sandra pinched Bianca's cheek like she was three.

The television blasted inside Katie's bedroom. Entrapped in her own warped mind, she sat on the bed, growing angry because Bane wasn't home. Again tonight. Yeah, he spent time with her during the day, but that wasn't enough.

Twiddling her thumbs, Katie clenched her jaws. Ever since she'd snuck out of the house with Piper, Bane seemed disappointed in her. Like he didn't care for her anymore.

"Where are you, Bane? And who are you with?"

Lizzy slapped her face.

"Ouch!" Katie cupped her face.

Lizzy had on a black hoodie, had four cornrows in her hair, and was puffing on a joint. _Forget about Bane for right now._ _Go get the box you bought, and hide Andrew's wedding ring. I'm really tired of telling you to do that._ Smoke spiraled from her lips.

Tired of Lizzy's demands, Katie frowned. She walked over to her closet, grabbed the JCPenney's bag off the shelf, pulled out a small box, and placed it on the dresser. She opened the top right drawer. Andrew's silver wedding band was tucked in the corner.

Slipping Andrew's ring on her finger, Katie held her hand up to the ceiling light. The diamonds on the ring sparkled. Because Andrew had treated her like dirt, she treasured the ring. A wicked smile came to her face.

"How was your day?"

Katie's eyes snapped towards the door to find Bane standing there. She snatched her arm downward. Caught off guard, she took a quick breath of utter astonishment.

Lizzy stood in the corner, shaking her head. _You really need to put the ring up and stop playing with it._

"My day was good. How was yours?"

"It was great!" He sounded chipper. He further entered her room. "There's **** something I want to talk with you and Josh about."

Josh came jogging inside her room. "You needed to see me?" he asked Bane.

"Yeah. How about we go outside on the balcony and sit down?" Bane pulled open the sliding glass door.

Outdoors was dark. Pallet sounds of the ocean assailed Katie's ears. She sat at the table between Bane and Josh. The look on Bane's face worried her. Oh God, he was going to send them back to the orphanage. Because of the incident with Jada.

Leaning up against the rail, Lizzy stuck up her middle finger. _Yeah, he's sending us back to the nasty orphanage because of you!_

Katie blurted, "Please don't send us back, Daddy. I'm so sorry. I promise to be good."

Josh sucked his teeth. "Oh my God. You're such a weirdo. That might not be what he was going to say. You're always thinking the worst."

Bane laced his fingers. "I'm not sending you back to the group home, Katie. That's not what I want to talk to you about."

Katie released a deep breath. "Whew. I was so scared. You look so serious."

"That's because what I have to speak with you about is serious. I've met someone...a woman. She's grown to be very special to me. I want Josh and you to meet her."

Josh smiled. "I can't wait. Is she fine?"

Katie nudged Josh in his side. "Who cares about her body? Is she nice?"

Bane's eyes were glowing. "Very."

"Do you plan on marrying her?" Katie asked, praying not. If Bane married this woman, then he'd never adopt her. He'd send her back to that orphanage faster than she could blink her eyes.

"I don't know what the future holds," Bane remarked.

"So when do you want us to meet her?"

"Tomorrow night. When you meet her, I want you two to be on your best behavior, like you always are. Oh, by the way, I checked your grades on PowerSchool, and they look great. I'm super proud of both of you."

"Even me?" Katie inquired.

Bane smiled. "Yes, Katie. I'm proud of you, too. You don't doubt that, do you?"

"Well, ever since I got into trouble with Piper, you seem like you're still mad at me. Like you don't like me anymore." A tear fell from her eye.

"Oh, Katie. No. Please don't cry. Just because I put you on punishment, doesn't mean I don't care for you. Or love you. Because I do." Bane wrapped his arms around Katie's shoulders and gave her a tight hug. "I'm so sorry for making you feel that way. I'll work harder at reminding you how special you are to me. Okay?"

Katie sniffed. "Okay, Daddy." Her eyes traveled to the corner of the balcony.

Lizzy stood there clapping. _Bravo. Bravo. Bravo. Both of y'all asses are phony._

After Bane and Josh left her room, Katie slipped the ring from her finger, placed it inside the jewelry box, and locked it. She hid the box under her bed and prayed no one would ever find it.

DRESSED IN her maid's uniform, Bianca vacuumed the thick carpet inside Bane's penthouse. The sliding glass door inside the living room was open. Pushing the vacuum back and forth, she periodically glanced out at the ocean. A man was jogging along the ocean. Maybe she should go for a jog to release the tension she was feeling.

As Bianca tried not to stress, her chest tightened. Bane wanted to _officially_ introduce her as his girlfriend to his foster children tonight. What if Katie and Josh didn't like her? What if she was all wrong for Bane? Could this be a mistake? They hadn't even had sex yet, so how could Bane know she was the right woman for him? Not to mention Andrew hadn't even been dead for a year yet.

She was confused. A tap to her shoulder caused her to jump. Startled, she whirled.

"How was he?" Hannah yelled over the noise of the vacuum.

Bianca turned it off. "How was who?"

Slapping Bianca's arm, Hannah smiled. "Our boss? I saw him picking you up at the bus stop yesterday." She flopped down on the couch. "Give me the 411 now. How is he in bed?"

Bianca laughed. "You're so funny, Hannah. I have no clue how Bane is in bed."

Her eyes spread wide. "You haven't slept with him yet?" Bianca shook her head. "Girl, you sure are better than me. If Bane wanted me, I would've been given it up. Men like him don't wait long. So what's the status of y'all's relationship?"

Bianca sat beside Hannah. "He wants to introduce me to his children."

Hannah's bottom lip dropped. "Oh my God...he loves you, Bianca. When?"

"Tonight. I'm so nervous, Hannah. What if his children don't like me? He may change his mind about me."

"They're going to like you, Bianca. You're a very likable person. The first day we met, I could see you had a good heart, and I wanted to be your friend."

"Thanks, Hannah."

"Too bad his brother Zeke is taken." Hannah folded her arms across her breasts. "Shoot, I'm never going to find a man. Does Bane have stepbrothers that are single?"

"Yes, he does. I forgot all about them--Suade and Dirk. He has a lot of cousins, too."

Hannah twirled the end of her hair. "Girl, those men wouldn't want me."

"Why not?"

Hannah stood, then turned around. "Have you seen this big horse ass I got? No man is going to want this. I wear double digit clothing. Men think I'm too fat."

"You look good, Hannah. Stop putting yourself down. Any man would be lucky to have you."

"Yeah. Maybe so. But men never bother to get to know me for who I am. They can't get past the outside to even get to know the inside." She looked at her watch. "Oh shoot, let me get back downstairs and finish cleaning Mr. Crawford's room. He leaves big tips." She hastened towards the door and left.

Admiring Hannah's personality, Bianca dragged the vacuum cleaner up the staircase and entered Josh's room. After making his bed, she wiped down the blinds. Dusted the ceiling fan. Cleaned up under his bed. Scrubbed his tub and dusted the furniture.

Afterwards, Bianca made her way into Katie's room. If either of the children had a problem with her, it'd probably be Katie. Girls could be protective of the men in their lives sometimes. Though when she'd met Katie, she'd seemed to be a nice girl.

Bianca cleaned up Katie's bathroom first. Then she vacuumed the floor. While using the hose of the vacuum to clean under Katie's bed, she came across a cute jewelry box with a lock. Katie's most important possessions must be inside the box. To keep the kids at the group care facility from stealing her belongings, the poor girl had probably needed a locked box.

Bianca got to her feet. She circled the dust rag on the dresser. If she and Bane ever got married, she'd treat Josh and Katie like her own children. Bane's not going to marry me, so I need to quit with the thoughts.

Once done with the upstairs, she went to Bane's bedroom. She made up his bed. Straightening the pillows on his bed, she felt his tall presence enter the room. She turned. One look at Bane, and her heart fluttered.

Bane was dressed in a lavender shirt and tan slacks. His handsome smile and the way he looked at her turned her on. He walked up to her. "Good morning, beautiful."

"Good morning, handsome."

"Why do I always crave you?" Clenching Bianca's hips, Bane slipped his tongue inside her mouth. Melting, Bianca closed her eyes and wrapped her tongue around Bane's. Guiding his clothed erection side to side on her stomach, he explored her mouth.

Bianca moaned huskily. She curled her tongue around his. Tension lifted from her shoulders, and she felt light as a feather. Particularly her heart.

Their intense kiss ended. "I can get used to coming home to this during my breaks every morning."

"Me, too," she admitted.

"Josh and Katie are looking forward to meeting you tonight."

Nervousness replaced the gleeful feeling she was experiencing. "I hope they like me."

"I'm sure they'll like you. There's nothing not to like about you, Bianca." He traced her lips with his finger. "You're perfect. In every single way. I'm glad to call you my lady."

"I'm your lady, huh?"

"You better believe it." He pecked her lips. "The first time I saw you, I felt something for you. Just didn't know what it was, because I had never felt it before."

"Things are moving so fast between us. That bothers me. Doesn't it bother you?"

Bane sat on the edge of the bed, pulled her into his lap, and wrapped his arms around her waist. His thick erection felt like a hard cucumber on her butt. When his weight shifted, his shaft knocked against her sex. It quivered.

His eyes gleamed like glassy volcanic rock. "The fast way things are moving between us doesn't bother me one bit. And I'll tell you why. A man knows a good woman when he sees one. He knows when he's found someone special that was made specifically for him. You're that woman for me." Huskiness lingered in his tone.

Bianca turned sideways to stare into his face. Pure affection shone in his eyes. She could see how much he cared for her. "Are you sure?"

Bane gently grabbed her wrist and placed her hand over his heart. "Feel this." His heart beat strong against her palm. "Every time I'm near you, my heart races. Feels like it's about to pop out of my chest. I'm just as sure about you as I am about needing my next breath. Every second of the day, I think about you. At night when I lay in bed, I wish you were lying next to me. When I wake up in the mornings, your face is the first thing I want to see. And whenever you're near me, you cause this to happen." He rocked his big erection against her butt cheek. He was hard as iron.

Bianca's sex clenched and unclenched. Her nipples turned hard. Lusting for Bane, she swallowed the water inside her mouth.

Bane continued. "Now that you know how I feel about you, tell me, Bianca, how do you truly feel about me?" His voice was husky.

Bianca couldn't believe what she was about to say. "I like you, Bane. A whole lot. Every day, I look forward to coming to work, just so I can see your handsome face. You came into my life like a thief in the night and stole my heart. And although I've only known you for a few months, I feel like our being together was meant to be."

Bane's hold on Bianca tightened. He palmed the back of her head and placed his forehead to hers. "That's because we are meant to be."

Blinking, she gazed into his eyes. Her eyes misted. "I think I'm falling in love with you, Bane. And I'm scared. So scared."

He swiped fallen bangs from her face. "Don't be scared, Bianca. I'll never hurt you. And just so you know, I'm madly in love with you." He kissed the crook of her neck. "If you'll let me, I'd love to make love to your succulent body."

Tears formed in Bianca's eyes. Her heartbeat palpitated harsh. What was about to happen to her frightened her. It'd been so long since she'd had sex, she didn't know if she could please Bane. Well, there was only one way to find out.

Nodding, Bianca cupped Bane's rugged face. "Please make love to me, Bane."

Bane walked over to the door and pressed a button on the wall. Slow music streamed from the ceiling's speaker. Bane removed his shoes, then his socks. He took off his shirt, exposing his muscular chest.

Peering intently into her eyes, he rolled his underwear down his legs. His big penis stuck straight out _._ The tip of Bane's erection bulged. Thick veins pushed at the sides. His balls were round and big. _His manhood is gorgeous. It's so big._

Bane looked very fine and powerful. He was beautifully proportioned. As he walked over to her, water streamed into her mouth. Lust crawled through her system.

Bianca's chest shook. He was going to split her in two. Desiring to taste Bane, she licked her lips.

Bane grabbed the hem of her shirt, rolled it over her head, and tossed it on the floor. He unsnapped the back of her bra, freeing her breasts. Pushing the straps to the sides, it fell to the bed.

As he looked at her breasts, his eyes glittered like diamonds. "Your breasts are beautiful." He lifted them in his hands. "I can't wait to suck them." He brought her right breast up to his lips and sucked her nipple into his mouth. Fire coursed through her veins. Bianca winced in pleasure. He next did the same thing with the other one.

Gazing into her eyes, he removed her panties. Cupping her knees, he spread her legs wide. Heat flickered in his eyes. Licking his lips like a lion, Bane inhaled deeply. "Your body is beautiful, Bianca." He groaned hoarsely.

The compliment made Bianca feel good all over. Her insides were sizzling with need. She reached up and cupped his jaw. Turning his head sideways, using the tip of his tongue, he licked the inside of her palm. Bianca had the distinct feeling that Bane was about to eat her inside out and bring her the kind of pleasure that she longed for.

Bane gawked. He'd seen a lot of pussies in his life, but he'd never seen one as pretty as the one before him right now. Juices glistened on Bianca's dark, puckered sex. Using his fingers, he spread her damp labia apart. Her engorged clitoris poked out.

Bane's cock throbbed painfully as he desired to fuck Bianca into submission. He slipped a finger into her core to find it soaking wet. Mmm. The feel of her wet pussy caused his balls to draw tight. Groaning, he inserted a second finger inside her channel.

Bianca's mouth parted as an intense moan escaped her. Pumping her core, Bane lowered his face between Bianca's legs and nibbled on her swollen clitoris. _Mmm, this pussy tastes like pure heaven._

Bianca's loud hiss filled Bane's ears, turning him on. The tip of his erection leaked with fluid. His balls tingled. Enjoying the feel of her sweet sex on his mouth, he could wait to stroke her.

Bane's probing fingers and flicking tongue on Bianca's clitoris was torturing her. Watching his head motion up and down between her legs, she groaned husky like a lioness. She clamped her thighs to Bane's head. She grabbed the back of his head. Pressed his face hard to her womanhood.

Bane moaned harshly. "You taste good. How does this feel?"

"G-g-good _._ Wonderful," she cooed.

Closing her eyes, she bucked hard on his face. Her clitoris throbbed. Her orgasm pooled at her entrance, and she longed to cum. _I can't take it. This feels so good. Oh. It's been too long._

Suck. Pump. Suck.

On the verge of exploding, Bianca's body tensed. Her fingers threaded the wiry hair on Bane's scalp. Opening and closing her legs, her thighs slapped the sides of his face.

Bianca's loud whimpers filled the bedroom as her opening exploded around Bane's fingers and her clitoris erupted on his tongue.

"Oh, Bane," she purred.

Bane came up for some fresh air. Their eyes linked. Gesturing her to lie down, he climbed on top of her.

"Scoot back," he said, crawling forward. As Bianca scooted on her behind toward the headboard, the head of Bane's shaft grazed her sex, teasing her. "That's enough."

Lowering his head to hers, he kissed her lips. His tongue roamed wildly inside her mouth. Salty and musky, she tasted the aftermath of her own sex.

With his hands on either side of her hips, using his knee, he pried her legs wide open. He broke their kiss. Their eyes locked. He gripped his rod, put it to her entrance, then slipped only the head in.

Bianca about exploded. His head felt thick on her circular opening. Nibbling her bottom lip, she waited for further penetration.

Keeping his eyes trained on hers, Bane slowly inched his shaft in further. She felt her walls stretch. He brought some of it out, then slowly sank back in. Burning sensations stung her channel.

Bane grunted. "You're so tight."

"It's been years since I've had sex."

"I'll be gentle." He pushed forward. "Your insides are burning hot and soaking wet. You feel so good, Bianca. So good on me."

Circling her hips, Bianca cupped his jaws. Struggling not to cry, her nose burned. She sniffed. "You feel good, too. Make love to me, Bane."

Bane's tool slowly stroked back and forth. Recapturing her mouth, he lowered his chest to her breasts. She wrapped her legs around his waist and bucked wildly on his stem. Intense pleasure flooded through her system.

He kissed her with a sense of urgency, as if he was about to explode.

As Bane moved inside her, his length rubbed her clitoris. A loud whimper flew from her lungs. She dug her nails into his shoulders and thrust harder on him. Oh God, he was about to make her cum, again.

Bane's tender strokes quickened. He slid his strong arms beneath her torso, flipped her over, and now she was on top, riding him. And still kissing him.

"I'm all up in this good pussy," he said into her mouth.

Bianca brought her snatch up to his tip and slammed back down. Her sex shattered with an orgasm, and she went to hollering. "Bane!" Bouncing up and down on his firm length, her body shuddered.

The way Bianca was riding Bane pushed him over the edge. With her hands pressed into his chest, her drenched sex was bouncing up and down on his cock. And as she came, she was screaming his name.

"Bane!" she screamed it again. "Bane!" Again.

Her hot sex wrapped around him like a warm electric blanket. Electrical sparks flew through his system and shot to his penis, charging it. Making it want to shoot! And explode. And cum hard.

Bianca looked beautiful riding his cock. With her eyes hooded, black hair hung over her shoulders. His saliva coated her swollen lips. Gyrating up and down, her brown, puckered breasts juggled.

Bane clenched Bianca's hips and thrust upward towards her endless bottom. Balls tingling, his cock pulsated. His body went rigid. Heartbeat turned irregular.

"Ride me hard, baby." Bianca swirled her heat around his throbbing member. Bane's husky groan burned his throat as he started detonating. A load of sperm shot from his slit into her core, filling her to the hilt.

Bianca collapsed onto his chest. "That wore me out."

"That's too bad, because I was just getting started," he said, caressing her spine.

LIZZY SAT on the dresser inside Katie's bedroom, swinging her legs back and forth and watching Katie get dressed. _I wonder if Bane's girlfriend is pretty?_

Katie was sulking on the inside. Dressed in a black cut-off shirt and a pair of tight jeans, she stared at herself in the mirror. She placed on her black stub earrings. Although she hadn't met Bane's girlfriend yet, she already despised her.

Katie picked up the brush and began detangling her hair. _I'm not interested in meeting Bane's stupid girlfriend. If it were up to me, I wouldn't even go to dinner tonight._

Lizzy pouted. _Me either. I'd rather stay home and watch Pretty Little Liars. Something I'm good at...being a pretty little liar. You're good at it, too._

_That's because you are me, crazy._ Katie traced her lips with a tube of black lipstick, then put on black eye shadow.

Lizzy smiled. _Glad you know that you and I are one._

Katie strapped her purse over her shoulder. _I'll talk to you later,_ she told Lizzy. Feeling sexy in her attire, she hurried down the staircase and met Bane and Josh in the den.

Bane looked so handsome in his black slacks, ivory dress shirt, and black and brown hard shoes. He looked like a million bucks and smelled good, like the billionaire he was.

Putting a fist to his mouth, Josh burst out laughing. "What the fuck are you wearing?"

Bane frowned. "Watch your mouth, Josh."

Josh outstretched his palm up hands towards Katie. "Sorry, Bane. But look at her. She looks like she's going to a strip club."

Katie didn't like Josh's outfit either. Looking like a character in a Disney movie, Josh had on a light green shirt and dark green pants. "You can't talk about me. You look like Peter Pan."

A hearty chuckle escaped Bane. "That was a good one, Katie. But please stop badmouthing each other. Josh, I think a white or yellow shirt would look better."

"Then he'll look like a Sprite," Katie said with a giggle.

Josh laughed. "I'd rather look like a Sprite than a dark Gothic chick. You belong in a horror movie."

Bane shook his head. "You two just can't stop with the insults, can you?"

"No," they said.

"Anyway, as I was saying, Katie, go put on a dress. Something appropriate."

Katie sucked her teeth. "A dress? Why?"

"Because we're going to an extravagant restaurant and I want you to look nice tonight. Besides, you can't get in with what you're wearing. Wear the dress that I had Gretchen buy for you, and take off the black lipstick. Wear a neutral color, or forget the makeup entirely. You're pretty without it."

"Okay." Dropping her head, Katie marched up the steps, changed into a satin navy dress, and returned back downstairs.

"You both look nice," Bane stated. "Now remember...please be on your best behavior, and no cussing in front of my lady."

Hearing Bane refer to his girlfriend as his lady made Katie cringe.

Satisfied with Josh and her outfits, Bane opened the front door and they left.

The valet attendant pulled the car around to the front of the hotel. Katie got in the front seat, and Josh climbed in the back. The car ride to the restaurant was quiet.

In deep thought, Katie peered out the window at the darkness. What if Bane's girlfriend was a complete and utter bitch? What if she was stuck up? Dreading to meet his mystery woman, Katie folded her arms across her chest. She should be Bane's girlfriend, not this mystery woman.

Lizzy was strapped in the seatbelt with Katie and was wearing the same clothes that Bane had made her take off--the black cutoff shirt and jeans. Her lips were painted black, too. Lizzy said, _That's what I've been trying to tell you. We should be dating Bane. Unless you stop calling him Daddy, he's always going to look at you like you're a little girl._

Katie felt her subconscious made a good point. _So what should I do, Lizzy?_

_Start dressing sexier around him. Like you did when you were with Andrew._

_Good idea, Lizzy._

Lizzy smiled. _You're welcome_.

Bane steered the car up to an Italian restaurant called _Michael Angelo's_ and pulled up to the valet. So many big trees surrounded the restaurant, it was hidden from the main road. The valet attendant opened the driver side door.

Bane looked at Katie, then at Josh, then back at Katie. "Remember, guys, be on your best behavior."

"Yes, Daddy," Katie said.

Lizzy nudged Katie's side. _Stop calling him Daddy._

"I got you, Bane," Josh stated.

The ambiance inside the restaurant stole Katie's breath. As the hostess escorted them to their table, Katie's mouth dropped open. She'd never been in a place like this before.

Dim yellow bulbs glowed from the ceiling. Expensive looking art paintings were on the walls. Soft jazz music was playing. White tablecloths and burning candles covered the tables. The red wooden chairs looked like they belonged in a castle.

Josh whispered, "Close your mouth, sis. Your breath stank."

Katie snapped her mouth shut. "Does it for real?"

He laughed. "Nah. Just kidding."

They took their seats at the table. Bane glanced at his watch. "She should be here any minute."

As Katie sat waiting on Bane's date, she reached in her purse and took out her cell phone. She scrolled through her pictures on Instagram. Josh sat beside her tweeting.

Bane outstretched his hand. "There will be no texting at the table. Hand me your cell phones."

"Are you serious?" Josh asked.

Bane's fingers wiggled. "Hand them over. Now."

They relented and handed Bane their cell phones. He waved over their waitress and requested she hold on to them until dinner was over. Katie felt lost without her cell phone.

Bane's focus left Katie's face and transferred to the front of the dining room. His eyes lit up. "She's here." Standing, he started walking towards the front.

Putting her arm on the curb on the chair, Katie turned sideways in her seat and glanced over her shoulder. She fixated her gaze on the woman standing at the front of the room. Dressed in an elegant red dress, two young boys were on either side of her.

Katie's brain spun. Her breath caught in her throat. Disgusting bile scratched the back of her throat.

Bane met the woman in the center of the room. He lifted the woman's hand to his mouth and kissed it. He patted the kid to the right's head, then did the same to the other kid.

Heartbroken, Katie turned back around. _Bianca! No. No. No. Not Bianca._ Tears threatened to wet her eyes.

Sitting next to her, Lizzy started crying. _Our lives are ruined._

Josh leaned into Katie and whispered in her ear, "Wow. Bane's lady is beautiful. I see why he's so in love."

Katie clenched her teeth. "He's not in love," she muttered with an attitude.

When Bianca and her twins, along with Bane, arrived at the table, Katie's stomach churned and she thought she was about to throw up. Finally, she glanced up at Bianca. Anger flew through her.

Wearing a red dress with sleeves that flared, Bianca's hair was pulled back in a low bun. Diamond earrings glittered in her ears. A diamond necklace shimmered around her neck. Her poor ass looked rich.

_I hate her._ Katie stood.

Then Josh.

Bane made the introductions.

Bianca smiled, then outstretched her arm towards Katie. "Nice meeting you again, Katie."

Against her will, Katie shook Bianca's hand. "I had no idea it was you who was dating my daddy."

Bane kissed Bianca's cheek, and Katie just about lost it. Bane looked so happy as he said, "We wanted to keep our relationship a secret until we knew for sure."

"Knew what for sure?" Josh asked.

Bane said, "That we really liked each other."

The perfect gentleman, Bane was all teeth. He pulled a chair from beneath the table for Bianca. She smoothed the back of her red dress over her butt and sat. Bane sat beside her, leaving Katie to sit by one of the twins.

_Ohmygod._ _This is Andrew's family._ Remembering the email Bianca had sent her, Katie flinched. She became a nervous wreck. She hated Bianca. She didn't want to be there. She was tempted to storm out of the restaurant and run all the way home. If Bane thought they were going to be one big, happy family, he could count her out!

The waitress placed six glasses of water on the table, then took their orders. While waiting on their food, Bane kept that crazy smile on his face. Katie felt like slapping it off. Even Josh hadn't stopped smiling since he'd laid eyes on Bianca.

Gosh, Bianca made her sick.

Bianca's lips pulled back into a smile. She looked at Bane, then at Josh, then at Katie. "Bane has told me so much about the two of you."

"Like what?" Josh asked.

"He mentioned how proud of you he was and that you both made good grades. He also said how responsible you two were."

"They're great kids. I'm lucky to have them." Bane draped his arm across Bianca's shoulder. "I'm lucky to have you, too." As he stared at Bianca, his eyes brightened.

Bianca blushed. Katie felt like punching her. "No. I'm the lucky one, Bane," Bianca responded.

"The red dress looks even more stunning on you tonight than it did when you tried it on in the store for me."

"You did a good job picking it out for me. Thanks."

"You took her shopping?!" Katie blurted.

"Lower your voice, Katie."

"So did you?" Katie wondered.

"Yes, I did."

Bianca and Bane's eyes locked. Bianca cupped the back of Bane's hand. "The day he took me shopping, he took me on a romantic boat ride, too." She looked back at Katie. "Bane is very thoughtful. But I'm sure you already know that."

Josh nodded. "Yeah. Neither Katie nor I would be here if it weren't for Bane's kindness. He took us out of that disgusting orphanage and gave us a place to stay. He buys all our clothing. Food. Gives us allowance. Thanks for everything you do for us, Bane. When I go to college and become a doctor, I'm going to pay you back."

Sincerity developed in Bane's pupils. "You don't owe me a thing, Josh. Everything I do for Katie and you comes from my heart. You guys mean the world to me. Even after you leave and go away, I'll always look after the two of you."

A thought struck Katie. Bane was going to send them back to the orphanage, marry Bianca, then move her and her two brats into the penthouse. Frowning, Katie's fists balled beneath the table.

The waitress returned with their meals. She lowered their Italian dishes in front of them. Though her spaghetti with jumbo meatballs looked delicious, Katie's appetite had spoiled. She was angry. She felt like throwing her food in Bianca's face.

Bane blessed the food. Using the fork, he sliced a corner of his eggplant parmesan. He forked the food into his mouth. "Mmmph. This is so delicious."

Bianca twirled her fork in the creamy linguine. "This chicken and shrimp carbonara is good, too."

"Mr. Bane," Logan sounded like he was whining, "are you still going to take us fishing?"

Landon looked at Bane. "We had fun feeding the fish the other night, Mr. Bane."

Bane caressed Logan's back. "Yes. I'm going to take you boys fishing. Josh, I'd like for you to join us."

Josh nodded. "That'd be cool."

"Mr. Bane, are they going to be our brother and sister?" Logan asked.

Landon cracked up laughing. "Mommy and Mr. Bane would have to get married, silly. Then they'll be kissing."

Logan and Landon and Josh sat at the table cracking up laughing.

Bianca's eyes ping-ponged between Landon and Logan. "Boys...stop talking so much and eat your food."

"Well, are we?" Josh asked.

Bane's brows furrowed. "Are we what?"

"Are we going to be their brother and sister?" Josh inquired.

Bane gazed into Bianca's eyes like she was the prettiest woman he'd ever seen. He looked as if he loved her. Sliding his fingers between Bianca's, he smiled. "Anything's possible, Josh," was all Bane said.

Smiling, Bianca's head tilted. She caressed his arm. "You're such a fantastic man, Bane."

Katie struggled with disguising her annoyance. _Will somebody please take out a gun and just shoot me?_

"I'm glad you approve of me, Mrs. Riesling." Bane released Bianca's hand. "You haven't touched your food, Katie."

"I'm not hungry," Katie lied.

Josh stabbed the fork in his lasagna. "Yeah, right."

Lizzy picked up Katie's napkin. Crying, she dabbed the corner of her eyes. _He loves her, he loves us not. He loves her. He loves us not._

The waitress dropped off the dessert menus, then returned five minutes later to take their orders. "Have you decided on your desserts?" the waitress questioned.

Bianca told __ the waitress, "Yes. We're going to share the vanilla sundae without the peanuts."

"Oh, but the peanuts are the best part," Bane said.

"I can't have them. I'm allergic to peanuts," Bianca responded.

"I can make two separate sundaes if you like," the waitress offered.

Bane shook his head. "That's okay. Whatever my lady wants is fine with me."

Bianca smiled. "Ah thanks, Bane."

After dinner was over, Bane escorted everyone into the art gallery inside the restaurant. Expensive paintings were on the colorful walls. Bianca had fallen in love with a painting by world renowned artist _Johnathan Green_ that cost $6,000.

Bianca marveled at the painting. "It's so beautiful, Bane."

"You like it?"

"I love it."

Bane left the room. Moments later, he returned with the hostess. "I want to purchase this painting for my lady."

Bianca's fingers touched her chest. "Bane, it's too expensive."

"Nothing is too expensive for you." Gazing up at the painting, Bane draped his arm around Bianca's waist. "Please take down the painting. She's taking it home tonight." As Bane and Bianca were gazing up at the painting, the children were standing behind them.

_He's buying her a painting for $6,000._ Katie's insides roiled. Putting a hand to her stomach, she fled to the bathroom. Bending over the toilet, she puked. Raising her leg, she flushed the toilet with her shoe.

As she stood in front of the mirror crying, black mascara ran from her eyes down her face. Lizzy stood beside her crying, too.

Lizzy gripped Katie's shoulders and turned till they were facing each other. _You know what you have to do to Bianca, right?_

Katie nodded. _Yeah._

_Let me hear you say it,_ Lizzy demanded.

"I have to kill Bianca."

"What did you just say?"

Katie whirled.

It was Bianca.

Ignoring her, Katie wiped her eyes. As she curled around Bianca, she purposely bumped hard into her. Hating life, Katie stormed out of the restroom.

THE FOLLOWING day, Abigail and Bianca stood inside the living room at her parents' home. Abigail touched the gold frame of the painting. "Oh Bianca, this painting is absolutely beautiful. Johnathan Green's paintings are very expensive, but worth every penny. I wish Todd and I could afford something so exquisite."

"I was surprised when Bane bought it for me," Bianca acknowledged.

"Bane loves you and would do anything for you. Can't you see that by now?"

As a matter of fact, she could see that Bane cared for her. "I can. I'd do anything for him, too. He's amazing."

"I bet he is."

"Are you ready to go? I'm starving."

Abigail rubbed circles on her stomach. "Me, too. We're going to _SugarKanes,_ right?"

"Yeah."

The drive to _SugarKanes_ took about fifteen minutes. As usual, it was packed. Upon arriving, Abigail ordered a turkey and Swiss cheese sandwich and Bianca got broccoli cheddar soup with a cobb salad.

Sweet scents of caramel pecan pie streamed up Bianca's nose. Maybe she'll deter from her diet and have a slice for dessert. She scooped hot soup onto her spoon and blew. "We finally did it."

"Umm, come again?" Abigail said, her mouth full of sandwich. "Please clarify what you mean."

Swallowing the delicious soup, Bianca scooped some more onto the spoon. She shivered at the vivid recollection of Bane and her making tender love. "Bane and I made love."

Abigail's eyes expanded. "Shut the freaking front door!" her voice pitched. Rubbing her hands together, she smiled. "This is so juicy. How was it?"

Love filled Bianca's heart as she thought about her first time with Bane. "It was so good, Abigail. He was so gentle, and caring. He took his time. I came five times in one night. He's hung like a horse."

"Five times? What the hell he on, Viagra?" Waving her hand back and forth, Abigail giggled. "Shoot, I got to get Todd some of them pills."

Bianca snickered. "Bane told me he loves me."

Abigail's mouth popped open. "I'm so happy for you, Bianca. After all you've been through, no one deserves a man like Bane more than you do."

Bianca started cutting the salad. "I wish everyone was happy for me."

"Who's not happy for you?"

"Bane's foster daughter, Katie," she said, drizzling ranch dressing on the salad.

"What makes you say that?"

"I just get bad vibes from her. While we were at the restaurant, I walked inside the restroom, but she didn't hear me enter. Her eyes were red, and I could tell she'd been crying. If my ears serve me correctly, I could've sworn I heard Katie say she wanted to kill me." Maybe she'd heard wrong.

Abigail's brows dipped. "I wish that little shit would try something with you."

"When I asked Katie what she'd said, she bumped into me. You should've seen the way she stormed out of the bathroom."

Abigail gasped. "Did you tell Bane?"

"No. The last thing I want to do is come between Katie and him."

"What about the boy? How does he act?"

"Oh Josh, he's nice. Bane is going to take him and the boys fishing."

Abigail leaned into the table. "If you need help putting your future step-daughter in check, just let me know. I'll straighten her behind out for you."

"I'm sure it's no big deal. She's probably just insecure, that's all. Then on the other hand, Bane has had some difficulties with her." She stabbed the fork into the cucumber.

Abigail fisted her chin. "How so?"

"It's just been a bunch of mess. One thing after another. A while back, Katie got into a fight at school with a girl named Jada. Fast forward, one night while Katie was spending the night with one of her friends, she and the friend snuck out of the house and went to a house party. While there, Jada ended up dying."

Abigail sucked in a sharp breath. "You mean the girl she got into a fight with at school ended up dying?" Bianca nodded. "Oh no. How?"

"According to the autopsy, it was a drug overdose."

"I wouldn't be surprised if that witch Katie put something in that girl's drink and poisoned her."

"Nah. She might be a little jealous and protective of Bane, but I don't think she'd do anything like that."

"Hmmp. Start watching Lifetime movies like me, and you'll change your mind. Those movies be based on real life, and there's a bunch of crazies out here. Katie might be one of them."

The drunk looking lady sitting at the table behind them lurched from her seat and stumbled over to their table. Clenching the lapels of her dirty jacket, reeking with alcohol, a black skull cap covered her head.

The drunk pointed a finger in Abigail's face. "Katie is my daughter." She thumbed her chest. "My girl." Her top front teeth were missing.

Abigail looked at Bianca, then back up at the homeless looking woman. "There's a lot of Katies in this world, and I highly doubt we're talking about the same one. Anyhow, I'm sorry. Let me make it up to you by paying for your lunch." Abigail reached inside her purse and tried to hand the woman a crisp twenty dollar bill.

As the toothless woman looked at the green bill, her eyes shined. She snatched the bill from Abigail. "I'm still telling on you!" She licked her tongue.

Just then, Sandella walked up and greeted them. She caressed the toothless woman's back. "Norelle, are you bothering my customers?" Sandella asked, smiling.

Tilting her head, Norelle grinned, exposing her pink gums. "Nah, Sandy. You know I don't mess with nobody and cause no trouble. I was just leaving." She left.

"How was your lunch, ladies?" Sandella inquired.

"It was good, Sandella," Bianca stated.

"Let me know if I can get you anything else."

Abigail thanked Sandella before she headed back to the kitchen.

Abigail said, "But back to Katie. I'm going to research her behind and get back to you."

"I don't think that's necessary, but thanks."

"Just to be on the safe side, I'm going to do it. Okay?"

"Okay. I appreciate it."

"No problem." The waitress placed a slice of caramel pecan pie in front of Abigail. "Too bad you're allergic to nuts, because I'm about to tear this caramel pecan pie up."

Katie roamed around the bathroom inside her bedroom as she talked on her cell phone. "Is it okay if I take the Honda and go get some tampons?" she asked Bane. Noticing she needed some more facial wipes, too, she shut the drawer.

Bane was at work. "Sure, but come right back."

"Thanks, Daddy."

Lizzy was standing next to Katie, circling blush on her cheeks. She frowned. She threw the container of blush at Katie, and it hit her shoulder. _How many times do I have to tell you not to call him 'Daddy'?_

"I mean, Bane," Katie corrected herself.

"Calling me Daddy is fine, Katie."

"Okay."

"Be safe while driving. Make sure you buckle up." Bane stated someone had entered his office, and therefore he ended the call.

Lizzy eased onto the bathroom counter. Swinging her legs, she smiled. _Let's go shopping for something sexy for you to wear._

Tilting her head, Katie fisted her hips. _Why do I need something sexy to wear?_

Lizzy grabbed Katie's shoulders and shook her. _You need something sexy to wear for Bane. If you want to seduce him, those raggedy pajamas you be wearing ain't gon' cut it. You look a hot mess in them. Like you still poor._

_That's because I am still poor. I'm never going to be rich, Lizzy._

_If you can convince Bane to marry you or adopt you, you'd have money, and lots of it._

Ever since Katie had had dinner with Bane and Bianca, she felt defeated. Like it was nothing she could do to end their relationship. Well, other than kill her. _He's not going to adopt me, Lizzy. He's definitely not going to marry me. My six months are almost up, and I know he's going to send me back to the orphanage._

_Do you want to know what I think you should do?_

_Not really._ Katie exited the bathroom.

Mimicking her every move, Lizzy was following her. _Well, I'm going to tell you anyway. I think you should fuck Bane, then use it against him. Blackmail him._

_That'll never work, Lizzy._ Katie descended the staircase.

_Why won't it?_

Katie entered the kitchen, retrieved the spare key to the Honda, and paused. She started talking out loud. "Because Bane is in love with Bianca. He doesn't want me for his girlfriend."

Suddenly, Josh burst inside the kitchen. "Yeah, Lizzy, Bane doesn't want Katie." He frowned. He walked up to Katie and grabbed her arms. "Thinking about doing it with Bane? You're just straight up nasty, Katie," he muttered through clenched teeth.

"Let go of me, Josh. I'm not thinking about Bane in that way." Katie snatched her arms from his tight grip.

"Liar! I heard you." He pointed his finger in her face. "Don't you dare think about doing anything stupid. If you do, I'm going to kill you and Lizzy." He gently slapped the side of her head. "You're a for real nut job."

"Whatever, Josh. Move out of my way." When Josh refused to move, she stepped around him, then left.

Inside the hotel's parking garage, Katie inserted the key in the ignition and cranked the motor. Her first stop was to the drug store, where she purchased a box of tampons. Afterwards, she stopped by Piper's house to say hello. Katie rang the doorbell.

Piper's mother, Gwenneth, answered the door. "Yes?"

"Is Piper home?"

"Yes, she is. But she's not accepting company."

"Oh. Tell her that I stopped by."

Seemingly displeased, Gwenneth sighed. "Look, Katie, you're a bad influence on my daughter, and I don't want Piper hanging around you. Please don't visit her anymore."

"But it's was Piper's idea to--"

Rolling her eyes, Gwenneth shut the door in Katie's face.

Katie's heart sunk. Other than Lizzy, Piper was her only friend. They were close and did everything together. Now she had no one to hang out with.

As she slid behind the wheel, Lizzy eased onto the passenger's seat. Lizzy patted Katie's shoulder. _Don't look so sad...you still have me, Katie._

_Yeah, but other than me, no can see you._

_Well, I think that's a good thing._

Feeling sullen, Katie backed the car out of Piper's driveway. Driving down the long road, she felt heartbroken. Things just weren't going her way. Because of Bianca, Bane was starting to neglect her. Josh spoke to her like she was crazy, leaving her to question his loyalty. Piper was no longer allowed to be her friend. Her mother was the only person that truly loved her unconditionally.

Loneliness settled inside Katie as she drove along Ocean Boulevard. Bypassing a few stores to her right, she pulled into the parking lot across the street from _SugarKanes_ and got out. Car key in her fist, she rounded the back of the building and spotted her mother.

Tucked in the rear corner of a tattoo store, Norelle was sleeping. Katie walked up to her mother. She kicked Norelle's torn shoe. "Mama, get up."

Norelle snored. Remaining asleep, she clenched the beer bottle tighter to her chest.

Katie stooped. Grabbing Norelle's shoulder, she shook her. Norelle's eyes shot open. "This is my beer!" Liquor saturated her breath, and it stank.

"Mama, it's me, Katie."

Batting her eyelashes, Norelle smiled, showing her pink gums. She touched the side of Katie's face. "This is my Katie. I knew you'd come back for me."

"I have something for you." Katie reached inside her front pocket and handed her mother a twenty dollar bill.

"Thank you so much, my Katie. As soon as I get on my feet, I'm gon' pay you back." She rolled up her pants leg and stuck the money inside her sock.

"You don't have to pay me back, Mama. It's a gift."

Norelle stroked Katie's hair. "The lady that was talking about you gave me a gift today, too. She gave me some money to pay for my lunch. I still let her know I was telling on her."

Like her, Norelle had a big imagination, too. "Who was talking about me, Mama?" she asked, for entertainment purposes only.

"I think her name was Beyonce. Or something that starts with a B."

Katie laughed. "Beyonce, huh?"

Norelle staggered to her feet. "Yep. She told the woman she was with that you were crying in the bathroom at the restaurant. Why did you bump into that lady, Katie? I taught you better than to fight."

Oh gosh, there was some truth to what her mother was saying. "Where were you when you heard them talking about me?"

"Here. Let me show you." Norelle grabbed Katie's wrist and hauled her to the side of the building. She pointed across the street to _SugarKanes._ "They were right over there, acting stuck up." The door to _SugarKane's_ opened. Suddenly, Bianca, along with another woman, exited. "That's them right there. That's Beyonce! She was talking about you. Both of them. The one in the blue said she's going to do some research on you." Norelle gasped. "What if she finds out you were in the mental institution?"

Katie kissed her mother's cheek. "I got to go, Mama."

"But you just got here," Norelle said sadly. "Come back and see me, okay?"

In a rush to catch up with Bianca's friend, Katie hopped in the Honda. When the woman pulled out onto the road, Katie followed her. To make sure the woman didn't suspect she was being followed, Katie kept distance between their cars.

Katie glanced at the clock on the dashboard. Crap. She'd been gone for a while now. Hopefully, Bane was still at work. She definitely couldn't afford to get in any more trouble. Maybe she should just go home. Bump that mess. Bianca's friend planned on spying on her, and she needed to know where she lived. If that bitch gave her any trouble, she'd teach her a valuable lesson.

About twenty minutes later, the woman pulled into the driveway of a yellow house. Keeping out of her line of vision, Katie slowed the car two houses down from where the woman was. "I wonder what her name is?" Katie said aloud.

The garaged door lifted. She climbed out of the car with two Victoria's Secret bags in her hands. The garage door lowered, and the woman disappeared.

Katie drove up to the woman's home. Keeping her foot on the brake, she took a picture of the woman's home, then the address that was on the mailbox. "You better not bother me, bitch." She drove off.

Later on that evening, while inside her bedroom, Katie Googled the woman's address. Come to find out, the nosey chick's name was Abigail, and she was married to some man named Todd. If Abigail came anywhere near her or tried to ruin her life, she was going to regret the day she ever stuck her nose in her damn business.

Filled with hatred, Katie sat on the bed, crossed her legs at the ankles, and flipped on the television. Perfect timing, a horror movie was on. Maybe she'd get some ideas of how to kill this Abigail woman...whoever she was.

GOLDEN HEAT from the sun blazed down on the boat dock where the restaurant _Katherine's_ was situated. Pearls of sweat dripped down Bane's forehead. Pulling a worm from the bucket, he baited the fishing rod's hook, then tossed the line into the water.

Waiting for a fish to bite, Bane glanced over at the boys. Josh, Logan, and Landon seemed to be really enjoying themselves. Standing side by side, the children fished, too. Thinking about the present he'd sent to Bianca, Bane smiled.

Logan looked over at Bane. "How long is it going to take before the fish come?"

"Hopefully, not too long," Bane said.

"Maybe they're scared," Landon said.

"Or maybe there aren't any here," Josh stated.

Perhaps Josh was right. Maybe they needed to go further out into the sea. Bane placed a call to Bianca and asked for permission to take the boys for a ride on his yacht. She was fine with it. After purchasing life vests from a nearby shop, he rounded up the boys and took them for a ride on his yacht.

Dark water wavered beneath the yacht as it docked in the middle of the sea. For a second time today, with their life vests on, the boys stood on the deck fishing. Suddenly, a big fish leapt from the water, then splashed back down.

"Whoa! What the fu--" Josh caught himself. "Was that a freaking whale?"

Landon's eyes stretched wide as he looked at the water. "That was Shamu! I saw him when my daddy took me to Sea World."

The fish jumped from the water again and dove back down with a big splash.

Logan screeched. "Shark!"

Bane chortled. "That wasn't a shark or a whale, it was a big fish."

By the end of the day, Bane had caught five fish. Josh had managed to capture three. And the twins had caught one apiece.

When Bane and the boys returned to the Marina, he ordered take-out from Katherine's and had an employee bring it to the yacht. As they sat on the top deck, eating shrimp po boys and fries, the twins fell asleep at the table. One by one, Bane carried the boys down the stairs and placed them in his king-sized bed. While they were napping, Bane got on his laptop and worked on the Dubai project. And Josh, well, he explored the tourist shops along the dock.

Bianca stood outside the hotel in the valet area, bubbling over with joy. She was amazed at the cranberry BMW that Bane had just had delivered to her. It even had a big white bow on it, too.

The car salesman held the key up to Bianca's face. "It's paid for in full and all yours, Mrs. Riesling."

The burgundy looking paint on the car was shiny and so pretty. "Are you serious? This is for me?!" The car salesman nodded. Bianca snatched the keys from his hand. "Let's take a spin, Katie!"

"Do we have to?" Katie didn't seem too happy about the car Bane had bought for her. Maybe she was reading her wrong. Since Bane had insisted that the two of them spend the day together, she wasn't going to think negative. Only positive. She was going to try her hardest to enjoy Katie's company and give the girl the benefit of doubt.

"Come on, it'll be fun!" Bianca hopped in the car. The tan leather seats felt wonderful and smelled brand new. Katie slid in the car on the passenger side. "Hold on!" Bianca mashed on the gas, and off they went.

After Bianca's joy ride with Katie ended, they returned to the hotel and went to the luxurious spa. Walking toward the back, a tropical scent enticed Bianca, enlivened her spirit. The décor in the spa was so elegant. Beautiful turquoise lights hung from the ceiling. Water cascaded down the waterfall centering the room.

Bianca and Katie eased onto the massage chairs. When Bane had suggested for Bianca to get to know Katie better, she thought a girl's day at the spa would be nice, and she'd been right. So far, Katie and she seemed to be hitting it off.

_Did Bane really buy her a car? Yes, he did,_ Bianca thought, very appreciative of his kind act. She wished she could do something nice for Bane, but what could she do for him? He had everything.

Bubbles floated around Bianca and Katie's feet as they waited to get their pedicures. Bianca glimpsed at Katie. Wiggling her toes in the water, she smiled. "The water is hot."

Katie returned the smile. "Mine is hot, too. It feels so good."

"Would you like to go to lunch afterward?"

"Yeah."

"We can eat lunch here at the restaurant. It'll be on Bane." Bianca laughed.

"Do you think Bane spoils you?" Bianca thought she heard a hint of jealousy in Katie's voice.

"Yes, he does."

"Do you think y'all will get married?"

Bianca shrugged. "I don't know."

"Do you want to?"

Bianca hesitated to answer. Saved by the bell, an Asian lady sat on the stool in front of Bianca and started scrubbing her feet. Then an Asian man began on Katie's feet. Once done, they indulged in manicures and facials, then ended their beauty treatments with massages.

For lunch, they remained at the hotel, as Bianca had previously suggested. Since outdoors was so pretty this Saturday afternoon, they sat outdoors on the patio. Aqua blue water rolled from the sea and washed up against the land. Sun rays bathed the beach's beige sand.

The waitress lowered their turkey salads to the table. Katie picked up her fork and started gobbling her food up. Bianca touched her hand. "If you don't mind, I'd like to say the grace first."

Katie swallowed the food in her mouth. She dragged her backhand over her mouth, wiping it. "Excuse my manners. Go ahead."

Bianca glanced at the other end of the patio and spotted Bane's ex-girlfriend, Courtney, sitting at a table. As Courtney lifted the fork to her mouth, their gazes connected. Courtney's eyes narrowed with disgust. Grave disdain shown on her face as she chewed her food. Wondering why Courtney was there, Bianca transferred her gaze back to Katie and decided to ignore her unwelcomed presence.

"Do you know her?" Katie asked, referring to Courtney.

"Yes. Her name is Courtney. She's Bane's ex."

Katie's eyes shifted back and forth between Courtney and Bianca. "She's very pretty. Daddy sure knows how to pick them. All the women around here want my daddy."

_Thanks for the reminder_ , Bianca felt like saying.

Bianca blessed the food. Peering out at the ocean, she sought how to broach the bathroom occurrence. She lifted her glass to her lips and sipped at the water.

"Katie, there's something I want to talk to you about."

"What?"

"Why were you crying in the bathroom the other night at dinner?"

Katie shrugged. "It's personal."

"Oh. I see. Did it have anything to do with me?"

Katie's brows lifted. "You? What'd make you think it had something to do with you?"

"Because you bumped into me and didn't apologize."

"You thought that was on purpose?" Bianca nodded. "I'm so, sorry. This guy that I like broke up with me. So see, it had nothing to do with you."

"I'm so relieved to hear that." Bianca cupped Katie's fist. "Just so you'll know, if you ever need someone to talk to, I'm here."

Katie smiled. "Thanks, Bianca. I'm so happy my daddy is dating you."

"Me, too." Bianca's cell phone buzzed. She hefted it from the table. "It's a text from Bane. He sent me a picture of the boys fishing." She held the phone up to Katie's face so she could see the pictures of her babies.

Katie smiled. "They're so cute."

"Thanks. I think so, too." She lowered the cell phone to the table. "Excuse me, I have to use the ladies room." Leaving her cell phone behind, Bianca went inside the building to use the restroom.

Courtney grabbed her purse from the back of the chair and walked over to where Katie was sitting. She smiled down at her. "You must be Katie."

"Yeah, I'm Katie. Who are you?" Katie asked, already knowing the answer.

"I'm a very good friend of Bane's. He told me all about you and your brother, Josh. Does he plan on marrying Bianca?" she cut right to the chase.

"I don't know. Why?"

Courtney shrugged. "Just curious. However, for the record, I wouldn't trust Bianca if I were you. Nice meeting you." She sashayed down the steps and stared out at the beach.

Don't worry. She didn't trust Bianca. In fact, having lunch with Bianca was the freaking pits. She made Katie want to throw up. Hatred for Bianca coursed through Katie's veins. She shivered.

While at _Katherine's_ the other night, Bianca had mentioned she was allergic to peanuts.

Reaching into her pocket, Katie glanced around the patio to make sure no one was looking. Courtney was around, but she wasn't paying her any attention. Courtney held her cell phone up to her face and began taking selfies.

Katie took out a tiny bottle of peanut oil, drizzled it on Bianca's salad, then tucked it back into her pocket.

Bianca's cell phone vibrated on the table. Katie picked it up. She swiped the screen. There was a message from Abigail.

**Abigail:** My thoughts about Katie were true. Please call me.

Katie's heart thumped wildly in her chest. Abigail was out to destroy her, and she had to stop her. Pretending like she was Bianca, Katie texted Abigail back.

**Bianca:** What did you find out about Katie?

**Abigail:** She's crazy! She was in the mental institution for killing her daddy. I bet she killed Jada, too.

**Bianca:** Don't mention this to anyone. We need to talk about this in person. Can I come over?

**Abigail:** Sure. Todd's out of town so we'll have some privacy.

**Bianca:** See you around nine.

**Abigail:** Okay. Be careful friend. Katie is deranged.

Disgruntled, Katie deleted all the messages between Abigail and her. If Abigail thought she was going to ruin her life, she better think again. Abigail was in for a rude awakening. Very shortly, she wasn't going to know what hit her ass. Katie was careful to put Bianca's cell phone back just like she'd left it.

Bianca returned to the table and took her seat. "Hope I wasn't too long." She jabbed her fork into a tomato and ate it.

"You weren't." _I hate her and Abigail._

"There's some nice shops near the Marina. Would you like to go shopping today?" Swallowing the green leafy salad drenched in peanut oil, Bianca cleared her throat.

_No. What I want is for you to eat the salad and die._ She hoped she'd put enough peanut oil on there.

There was no way in hell Katie was going to spend any more of her free time with this stuck up bitch. "No, thanks. I don't have any money," she lied. Bane gave her plenty of allowance.

Bianca paused. She lowered her fork to the table. Her face crinkled. Appearing uncomfortable, she drank some water. "I feel weird." She inhaled deeply. "Like I'm having trouble breathing." She coughed.

Good. "Are you okay?" Katie asked, caring less.

Bianca shook her head. Her face turned brownish-red. Wheezing, she grabbed her throat. "I can't breathe," she managed to say.

Taking her precious time, Katie slowly stood. "Help! She can't breathe!" she yelled, noticing they were on the patio alone. _Good._

Their waitress came outside. Her eyes widening, she placed the pitcher of water on the table. "Oh God. Is she choking?"

"Yes! Help her. Please help her." Katie pretended to be moved by what was happening.

Clutching her throat, Bianca's eyes rolled. Slumping in her chair, she passed out.

The waitress ran back inside the restaurant and got help. Several workers rushed outside to help Bianca. A male waiter placed Bianca on the ground and started CPR on her. But from what Katie could tell, it was too late. Ten minutes later, the paramedics stormed onto the patio.

Taking her sweet, precious time, Katie called Bane.

"Katie...how's your girls' day with Bianca going?"

"She passed out, Daddy!" she fake cried.

"Who?"

"Bianca. She was eating, and the next thing I know, she just dropped dead."

"God, no! Dropped dead? What do you mean she dropped dead? Where is she now?" Bane sounded panicky.

"She's right here with the paramedics."

"Let me speak to them."

Katie handed the paramedic the phone. "Hello?" Silence. "She's in bad shape, sir." Quiet. "You need to hurry up and get to the hospital as fast as you can. It's not looking good."

It may not be looking good for Bianca, but it sure as hell was looking good for Lizzy and her. Katie looked across the room to find Lizzy jumping up and down with joy. Now all she had to do was scratch Abigail off her list.

The paramedic handed Katie back her cell phone. She told Bane she'd meet him at the hospital, but what she didn't tell him was that it'd be after she killed nosey-behind Abigail.

Katie ran inside the penthouse, grabbed the key to the Honda out of the kitchen drawer, and retrieved a sharp blade. Closing the door behind her, she walked down the hallway and took the elevator. Seconds later, the ride let her off at the ground level. She hopped in the Honda, sped out of the garage, and drove fast down the street.

With the driver's side window down, wind whipped at Katie's face. Over and over, she went over how she was going to murder Abigail. Damn. Hopefully, Bane hadn't called Abigail. Because if he did and she left to go to the hospital, her plans would be ruined.

It was now nighttime. Katie parked the Honda on the curb of the road, one house down from where Abigail lived. She covered her head with a hoodie and exited the car.

Watching out closely for Abigail's neighbors, Katie hastened up to Abigail's house and hurried to her back yard. She peeked in the kitchen window and spotted Abigail pacing back and forth. She turned the doorknob to the kitchen, but it was locked.

Katie pulled out Bianca's cell and texted Abigail. "I'm here. Open up the back door."

A strange expression appeared on Abigail's face as she read the text on her cell phone. She placed her cell phone back on the counter by the sink. Without hesitation, she made her way to the back door.

Ready for war, Katie pulled the knife from her waistband. Her heartbeat escalated. Her head down, she nervously patted her foot.

The door opened wide. "Why didn't you just go to the front--"

Katie lifted her head and met Abigail's gaze. Furious, she put the tip of the blade to Abigail's chin. "You nosey bitch! I ought to slice your face in half."

Abigail walked backwards into the kitchen counter. "Who are you?"

"Don't pretend like you don't know who I am. I'm Katie!" Katie traced the blade down Abigail's throat. "I read the text you sent to Bianca about me."

Abigail shook like a leaf as she slowly backed into the kitchen aisle. "Please put the knife down. You need help, Katie. I'll help you."

"I don't want your help. What I want is this..."

Katie stabbed Abigail in the throat. Blood squirt from Abigail's neck, splattering the marble island and floor. Eyes stretched wide, Abigail plummeted to the floor and died.

Lizzy stood beside Katie. _We did it! You're the best, Katie. I love you. Don't forget to wash your bloody hands._

Katie rinsed her hands in the kitchen sink. One by one, she deleted the text messages from Abigail's cell phone, then placed it back on the counter. Walking towards the back door, she stepped over Abigail's body.

Katie gripped the doorknob, paused, and glanced over her shoulders back at Abigail. "You should've minded your business, Abigail." Pulling her hoodie over her head, Katie walked outside into the dark night.

BRIGHT LIGHTS flashed on the ambulance as it sped up to the hospital's emergency entrance. Two paramedics hopped out of the vehicle and flung open the back door. The person on the gurney inside was screaming loud. The emergency aid gripped the hooks on the gurney, lowered it to the ground, and rushed the hollering man inside.

Bane hated hospitals. Tugging the twin's hand with Josh following him, he rushed inside the emergency room and hastened up to the nurses' station. A shiver of panic ran through him. "My girlfriend, Bianca Riesling, was brought in here. Where is she?" he asked on a winded breath.

The nurse's fingers typed on the computer. She turned sideways to look at the woman sitting beside her. "Becky, can you take Mr. Balfour to room B3?"

Becky came from around the counter. "Follow me this way, sir." She opened the door to her right, and they entered the emergency area. Doctors and nurses walked about. As Bane stalked down the hallway, he looked in the room to his right. The man inside was lying in the bed with his mouth popped wide open, and tubes were coming out of his arms. _Oh God, please don't let Bianca be sick like he is._

When they reached room B3, the nurse drew back the blue curtains. Bianca was lying in bed sleeping with an oxygen tube in her nose. The twins rushed to either side of the hospital bed. Gloom filled the boys' eyes as they looked at their sick mother.

Bane's shoes dragged against the tile as he walked up to Bianca's bedside. Slowly, her

eyes peeled open. The white part of her eyes were red. The brown skin on her face looked dull and dry.

Seeing Bianca sick broke Bane's heart. "How are you feeling?"

"Weak." Her low voice was barely audible.

Bane cupped her hand. "Has the doctor been in to see you?"

Bianca nodded. "Yeah. They're running some tests now. I'm so tired. I feel like a truck ran over me."

Logan touched Bianca's arm. "Mommy, are you going to die like Daddy?"

Water formed in Bianca's eyes. She cupped Logan's hand. "No, Logan. Mommy's not going to die." Turning to look at Landon, she cupped his hand, too.

"Then why are you in the hospital?" Landon asked.

"I don't know yet. I--"

A young physician entered the room. He shook Bane's hand, then introduced himself as Dr. Ryan Piercy. Requesting she sit upright, Dr. Piercy unhooked the stethoscope from around his neck and listened to her heart.

"How am I?" Worry shone in Bianca's brown eyes.

Dr. Piercy placed the stethoscope in the pockets of his medical coat. "Your vitals are good. There were high levels of peanuts in your lab results."

Bianca gasped. "I'm allergic to peanuts. But I didn't eat any."

"Are you sure?" Dr. Piercy asked. "They had to get into your system some kind of way. What did you have to eat today?"

"For breakfast I had a green smoothie, and for lunch I had a salad. Maybe the restaurant put peanuts in my food by accident."

Bane frowned. "Didn't you eat at the hotel?"

"Yeah. But I didn't tell them not to put peanuts in my food. There was no need to. I don't know what happened. I'm just thankful to be alive."

Suddenly, Bianca's parents hurried inside the room.

"Bianca, are you okay?" Sandra asked.

"Yes. I'm good. Just tired."

Lucas placed a hand to his chest. "You almost gave me a heart attack."

"Don't worry, Dad. I had an allergic reaction to peanuts, but I'm fine now." Bianca looked at Dr. Piercy. "When can I go home?"

"As soon as your paperwork is completed. I'll have the nurse prepare your dismissal papers. Nice meeting you all." Dr. Piercy left.

A few moments later, Katie entered the room looking sad. Walking over to Bianca's bed, a tear slid from her eye. As soon as Katie's mouth parted, she burst into tears. "I thought you were going to die." She bent over and hugged Bianca.

"Oh, Katie," Bianca caressed her spine. "I'm fine. Please don't cry."

Josh stood at the foot of the bed sniffling. "I'm glad you're going to be okay, Ms. Bianca."

"Thanks, Josh. If you don't mind, drop the 'Ms.', and just call me Bianca."

"Sure."

One by one, Bane's eyes slowly roamed over everyone's face. The people inside this room meant the world to him. Smiling, love swelled his heart. He'd never felt this way before. And to make sure this feeling inside him lasted forever, he now knew what he had to do.

_This is my family._ Sliding his hands inside his pockets, Bane leaned over and kissed Bianca's forehead. "I love you, Bianca."

"I love you, too, Bane."

"Ewww!" Logan and Landon said, giggling.

Katie became enraged when Bane told Bianca he loved her. She tried hard to conceal her jealousy. And maybe if Lizzy wasn't pacing back and forth inside the hospital room with an attitude, she'd be able to hide her feelings.

Fisting her hips, Lizzy paused at the foot of Bianca's bed and glared at Bianca. The white part of her eyes turned red, and Katie could've sworn she saw horns grow from Lizzy's skull.

Clenching her teeth, Lizzy's gaze transferred to Katie. _You were supposed to kill her._

Katie shifted. _I tried._

Lizzy's eyes flickered with hatred. _Well, you fucking failed!_

_You killed Abigail. Isn't that enough killing for one night?_

Lizzy's index finger shot up in the air. She rolled her neck. _Umm. Correction. I didn't kill Abigail. We killed Abigail. And we're going to kill this bitch right here, too. Comprehend?_

Katie dropped her head. "I'm tired," she said out loud.

Bianca caressed Katie's arm. "You should be. You've been through a lot today. Go home and get some rest."

Bane stated, "Josh...ride home with Katie. I'm going to stay here with Bianca until she's released."

"Lucas and I will take the boys home with us," Sandra stated.

"Thanks, Mom--" Bianca's cell phone vibrated in her lap. Picking it up, she read the screen. "It's Abigail's husband, Todd. He never calls me. I hope everything's okay." She swiped her finger across the screen. "Hello?"

Katie's throat pulse beat hard. Lacing her fingers, she watched Bianca's face turned red. Then her mouth parted.

"Slow down, Todd." Silence. Bianca's bottom lip started trembling. "No, Todd. No." Bianca shook her head profusely. "Not Abigail. Oh God, no. Todd, please...please tell me you're lying. Please, Todd! Please! Noooo!" Bianca's tortuous screams lit up the hospital.

Katie was too elated.

And so was Lizzy.

FOUR WEEKS later, Bianca stood at the window inside her bedroom. Taking a deep breath, she flattened her hands on the window sill and stared at the back yard. Fall was in full effect. Bright orange leaves popped from the branches and spiraled to the ground.

Heartbroken, Bianca sighed. Nature was so beautiful, and God had made it to His liking. He'd made the trees. And the sky. He'd masterfully created man and woman, so why did people have to die? Why did Abigail have to die? God could do anything He wanted. So why hadn't God saved her best friend?

Dismayed, Bianca's heart grappled. Though she knew she shouldn't question God, she did. Abigail was the sweetest woman she'd ever known, and her death hurt like hell. Who'd want to kill Abigail? As far as she knew, Abigail didn't have any enemies. So who killed her?

Bianca stared at the sky. "I miss you so much, Abigail," she mumbled. Life without Abigail would never be the same. She was like a sister to her.

Turning from the window, Bianca sighed. She sat on the edge of the bed. She'd never be able to get over the way Abigail was so viciously murdered. Not ever.

Feeling like she was about to lose it, Bianca laid on her back. Tears slid from the cracks of her eyes. "I miss you so much, Abigail."

Tear after tear streamed down her face. She snatched the pillow resting against the headboard, placed it over her face, and started screaming. "I miss you, Abigail! It hurts so bad! So bad!"

In the midst of her breakdown, someone snatched the pillow from her face. Mouth wide open, Bianca's screams halted. Bane was standing over her. She'd been pitching such a fit, apparently she didn't hear the doorbell ring.

Bane sat on the edge of the bed. He scooped her up in his arms. Using his fingertips, he wiped her eyes. "It's going to be okay, Bianca. I'm here for you." She lay her head on his chest and bawled. "I hate seeing you like this. I wish there was something I could do to take the pain away."

"I loved Abigail. We'd been best friends since elementary school. What am I going to do without her?"

Rocking her, Bane put his chin to the top of her head. "Abigail loved you, Bianca. She'd want you to go on with your life. She'd want you to be happy."

Thin snot trailed from her nose. Bane wiped it off with the end of his shirt. "Yes. She would. It's just so hard and painful."

"I have to take a business trip to Paris, and I want you to come with me."

She gazed into his eyes and could see the sympathy he felt for her. Maybe a trip to Paris was just what she needed. "When?"

"I'm leaving Thursday."

"I'd love to come, but I have to first check to see if my mom can babysit the boys for me."

"If not, I'll hire a nanny. Or get Gretchen to keep them. They can always come with us."

"Really? You don't mind me bringing the boys?"

"Yes, really. You should know by now that I love your boys and would do anything for them."

"You're a great man, Bane."

"That's because I have a great woman to keep me in check." Bane gently pecked Bianca's mouth.

"Just hold me." Snuggling her head against his chest, Bianca closed her eyes. Bane always had a way of making her feel better. When she was with him, she felt protected. Loved. And safe. Like everything would be all right.

A scary thought made her eyes shoot open. _OhmyGod. What if Abigail knew her killer?_ She flinched. _What if I know Abigail's killer? Dear God._

Bianca's mind burned with a memory. She lifted her head from Bane's chest. "I just thought of something. I can't believe I forgot."

"Forgot what?"

"On the day I had the allergic reaction to the peanuts, Courtney was at the restaurant."

Bane scowled. "She was ordered to stay away from me and the hotel. Did she say something to you?"

"No. But I'm wondering if she put something in my food when I went to use the restroom." She paused. "But if she had, Katie would've told me. Don't you think?"

"You'd think." Bane slid his cell from its clip and punched in some numbers.

"Who are you calling?"

"Katie." Silence. "Katie. I have an important question for you. On the day that Bianca and you were at the restaurant...while Bianca was in the restroom...did anyone come over to your table and speak with you?" Bane nodded. "Did you see Courtney put anything in Bianca's food? Or did you at any time leave the table?" His face scrunched. "Okay. No. You're not in trouble. I'm just trying to figure something out." He ended the call.

"Did Katie see Courtney do anything to my food?" Bianca asked.

"No, she didn't. However, she did say that at one point she left the table to go get the waitress so she could order some dessert."

"I bet that's when Courtney put the peanut in my food. Courtney tried to kill me. What if she's the one that killed Abigail?"

He breathed with exasperation. "But why would she do that?"

"Maybe because she's trying to hurt me and take everything I love away."

Bane's brows slanted with a frown as he quickly got to his feet. "If your theory is true, you can be in danger. Get dressed."

Bianca stood. "Where are we going?"

"To report this to the police." Bane cursed. "If Courtney comes anywhere near you or the boys, I'll kill her. So help me God, Bianca. I mean it. I'll kill her," he snorted.

After Bianca got dressed, off to the police station they went.

On Sunday, around three in the evening, Bane took Bianca to Leslie's house for his family's weekly Sunday gathering. The house was super crowded. As usual, all of Colton and Leslie's children and grandchildren and friends were there. And like always, there was plenty of food, too. While the adults were inside, the kids were outside running around.

Bane struggled to get his mind off Courtney as he sat beside Bianca at the dining room table. Surrounded by his family, his eyes scrolled over the delicious meal that Leslie had prepared. A baked ham, roast beef, macaroni and cheese, collard greens, cabbage, mashed potatoes, and cheesy cornbread centered the rectangular table.

Tons of laughter floated in the air. Conversations amongst the guests flowed easily. Bane sensed Bianca's nervousness. Forking mac and cheese into his mouth, he cupped her hand beneath the table. She offered him a smile.

Colton sat at the head of the table. He cleared his throat. "So, son," his father started, "seems to me that this thing between Bianca and you is pretty serious. When are you two getting married?"

Sitting at the other end of the table, Leslie gasped. "Colton! You're putting them on the spot. Don't do that," she said, shaking her head.

Colton responded with, "Why, shucks. Everybody here can see how the two of them like each other. It's written all over their faces."

Caressing Bianca's hand beneath the table, Bane chortled. When he gazed into Bianca's eyes, his heart stirred. "I'm that obvious, huh?"

Zeke laughed. "Yeah, bro, you are."

"I could see it as soon as the two of you walked in the door," Richmond replied.

Taylor shook her head. "I'm like Leslie. You guys need to mind your own business and stop putting poor Bianca on the spot like this."

"You can say that again," Sasha said.

"I second that," Kayla acknowledged.

Suade lifted his glass of tea to his lips. "I can see why you're taken by Bianca...she's beautiful."

Smiling, Bane squeezed Bianca's hand. "Yes, she is."

Bianca blushed. "Everyone here has been so nice today. Thanks for the warm welcome."

Leslie sliced the roast beef on her plate. "You're always welcome here."

"With or without Bane," Colton commented.

Bane draped his arm over Bianca's shoulder. "If I have anything to say about it, Bianca will never be without me."

Smiling, Leslie giggled. "Love is definitely in the air. I hear wedding bells coming soon."

Everyone's laughter intermixed.

During the course of the meal, pleasant and light conversation took place, giving everyone an opportunity to enjoy each other's company. Josh and Katie, along with the other children, finally made their way onto the patio to eat. Seeing Josh and Katie, and Logan and Landon interact with the other children, confirmed to Bane that he was making the right decision. He was going to ask Bianca to marry him. If she said yes, he was going to adopt Josh and Katie, and Logan and Landon, and make them one big, happy family.

Bane's heart clenched. _Oh God, how I love this woman. She's the best thing that's ever happened to me. And just think, Courtney is trying to ruin it. Courtney has to be stopped, and I know just the person to get the job done._

Bane excused himself from the table. He walked outside to find the sun fading and it getting dark. Rounding the side of the house, he made an important phone call. Three rings later, the private investigator answered.

"Don McQuade speaking. How may I help you?"

"Hey, Don. This is Bane Balfour."

"Bane! My man! How's it going?"

"I got money in my pocket, so I can't complain." The two men laughed. "All jokes aside, I need your help with something."

"What's up?" Don asked.

"You probably heard on the news about the lady that was killed in her house--Abigail--"

Don interjected, "Yeah, yeah. Her husband came home and found her dead. That was horrible."

"Tell me about it. Anyhow, I think I may know who did it."

"Who?"

"While I don't have any real proof, I think it may be this chick named Courtney who I used to date. She's been stalking me and my girlfriend and causing me a whole lot of unnecessary trouble. Courtney's bad news, and she needs to be stopped."

Bane could hear Don shuffling papers. "Well, you're definitely calling the right guy to put an end to it. I tell you what, come by my office tomorrow so I can gather more information from you. In the meantime, as soon as I get off the phone with you, I'll start digging to see what I can find out about Courtney's whereabouts the night Abigail was murdered."

"Thanks, Don. I knew I could count on you."

"Glad I can help. Tell your family hello for me."

"I will. See you tomorrow." Bane hung up. Needing a moment to think, he rested his back against the brick house. If Courtney thought she was going to get away with murder, she was dead ass wrong. Damn her for trying to ruin the best thing that's ever happened to him--Bianca.

Suddenly, Bianca rounded the corner of the house and walked up to him. "Are you okay?"

"Yeah." Bane encircled his arms around her waist and drew her to him. His shaft turned to stone as it pressed into her stomach. "If it were dark, I'd fuck you right out here."

Bianca's face creased into a sudden smile. "You'd do it outside?"

"I damn sure would."

"While everyone was in the house?" she asked, like she was surprised he'd do such a thing.

"Yep."

She playfully hit his shoulder. "Oh, Bane. You're so nasty."

"And you love every bit of it."

"I really do."

"I know you do." Bianca's breasts pressed into Bane's chest. His balls tingled. His shaft throbbed. Dying to make love to his woman, he gently bit her bottom lip, then sucked it into his mouth. Groaning, he curled his tongue with hers. Heat cursed through his veins. There was no way he could wait until tomorrow to get this pussy. Hell, he couldn't wait another hour. Make that another minute.

Bane's mouth left Bianca's. "I want to make love to you so bad, baby."

Hot lust glazed Bianca's eyes. "I want to, too."

"Say no more. Let's go." Bane tugged Bianca's hand and headed for the front yard. Like two teenagers, they jogged across the grass. He opened the car door, and she hopped into the passenger's seat. Aroused, Bane backed the car out of the driveway.

Her light giggle floated in the air. "Where are we going?'

"You'll see."

"What about the children?"

"I'll call Leslie and tell her to keep an eye out on them." He pressed the button on the dashboard. Seconds later, Leslie answered. "Hey, Leslie. Something came up, so Bianca and I had to leave. We'll be back shortly. Can you watch the kids for us?"

"Sure. No problem."

Nighttime quickly approach. Driving along the narrow road with oaks on either side, Bane disconnected the call. His nuts were hurting bad. He glanced over at Bianca, slid his hand over her crotch area, and fondled her clothed sex.

Bianca moaned. Her eyes became hooded. Damn, he wished she was wearing a dress so he could push her panties to the side and stick his fingers in her pussy. What she did next pushed him over the edge and almost made him cum right then.

Bianca unzipped his jeans, stuck her hands into his damn drawers, and wrapped her warm fingers around his cock. _What the fuck!_ Jerking him up and down, she leaned over, curled her soft lips around the tip of his flared crest, and then slid her wet mouth to his base.

Well, damn. He had no idea she could be so spontaneous. And freaky. But he loved it.

Bane swerved the car up to the boat dock in front of his yacht. Thrusting his shaft inside Bianca's mouth, he palmed the back of her head. Bianca brought her lips up to his pulsating tip, then slowly slid her mouth back down. "That feels so good, baby. Yeah. Suck it. Suck it good."

"Mmm," Bianca groaned huskily.

As her head motioned up and down on his shaft, beautiful black hair spilled into his lap. Threading his fingers through her hair, he closed his eyes. His cock thrust in and out of her mouth, fucking it in slow, agonizing movements as he felt the cum boiling in his balls. Just as he was about to cum, he snatched his cock from Bianca's talented mouth. "Whew, that's was close. I almost came in your mouth," he confirmed.

"I'm okay with that." Before he knew it, she'd sucked him back into her hot mouth.

"No! Stop!" He clutched the sides of her head, once again removing her mouth from him. "I'm not ready to cum yet. I want you to cum first."

Bane pushed open the door, climbed out, and met Bianca at the front of the SUV. Clasping hands, they jogged along the boat dock, then stepped onto his yacht.

They hastened down the stairs beneath the main desk and rushed inside the master bedroom. As they stood in front of the bed, the smile on Bianca's pretty face matched her liveliness.

Bane urgently removed his clothing as she removed hers. He sat on the bed and positioned his back to the headboard. He fisted his cock and shook it at her. "Come ride this dick."

Bianca climbed on the bed. Holding on to Bane's shoulders, she positioned her sex to his hard knob, then slowly slid down his rod.

Bane crisscrossed his arms over Bianca's spine and drove hard into her opening. The feel of her wet nether lips grazing his balls spun him. Clenching her hips with one hand, he reached inside her shirt, pulled out her breast, and began flicking her dark nipple with his tongue.

Bianca's loud whimpers filled Bane's ears. Lolling her head back, she dug her nails into his shoulders and rode his cock hard and fast. "Oh, Bane. Mmm. I'm about to cum."

His balls were drawn tight, and his cock was throbbing, aching to release. "Me too, baby. Let's come together."

As she slowly rocked her core on his member, her heat swirled around his shaft. Bane cupped her face and tongue kissed her with great urgency. Bianca's sex exploded on his shaft. The intense vibration of her sweet womanhood caused Bane to orgasm, too.

"Bane! Oh, Bane!"

"Ride it, baby! Give me that pussy! Yeah!"

Their louds moans echoed inside the room.

Bane said. "Ahh. That was so good--"

Knuckles rasped on the door. Startled, Bianca flew off Bane's lap. She covered herself with the crisp sheets.

Bane opened the door to find a police officer standing there. "Good evening, Mr. Balfour. I saw someone peeping through the window, and then I heard some loud noises. Sounded like someone was screaming. Is everything okay?"

"Yes, Officer. I'm just spending some time with my fiancée. Did you get a good look at the person peeping through the window?"

"Not really. By the time I got here, whoever it was took off running. But if I had to guess, I'd say it was a woman."

"Oh. Thanks for checking up on me."

"No problem. Enjoy the rest of your night."

"Likewise." He left.

Fear settled on Bianca's face. "Ohmygod. Somebody was looking through the window?"

"Yeah. Something in my mind tells me it was Courtney."

DARK BLACKNESS had descended upon _Hilton Head Island_. While no one was looking, Katie had lured Bianca's twin boys into the forest behind Leslie's home. With Logan and Landon walking on either side of her, Katie led them deeper into the woods. How dare Bane leave her at Leslie's house with a bunch of dumb kids just so Bianca and he could go have fun?

_I hate Bianca. She makes me sick._ Branches crunched beneath Katie's shoes as they trekked past huge trees.

"My mommy gon' be mad 'cause we left," Logan said.

"Can we go back? I'm scared," Landon whined.

"Stop being a scaredy-cat," Katie snapped. The wide lake came into view. "Would y'all like to go fishing?" she asked the twins, coming to a stop at the lake.

"We want to go home," Logan stated adamantly.

"I want my Mommy," Landon said.

Lizzy popped up beside Katie wearing Army camouflage. _I know what you have in mind, and it's the same thing I'm thinking._ Lizzy smiled. _Great idea, Katie! I like the way you're starting to think like me._

Katie shrugged. _What do you think I'm going to do?_

Lizzy smiled. _You're going to drown them._

Lizzy was right. That's exactly what she was going to do. Bianca loved her children. If she killed them, Bianca would end up in the mental institution, then she could take her place. Then Bane would love her forever.

She had to plan this carefully. Killing both of Bianca's children would be too suspicious and would not look like an accident. So, she could only kill one of the twins. _Hmmm._ Which one would it be? Would it be Logan? Or Landon?

Lizzy pointed at Landon. _Kill the one that keeps whining. I'm tired of listening to him._

_Me, too._ "Landon, you're too close to the edge." She placed her hand to Landon's back. "Step back some before you fall in the water." Just as Landon took one step backwards, Katie shoved him and he flew into the water.

Logan screamed. "Ahhh!"

Landon's arms splashed the water as Katie looked on in delight. Not saying a word, she smiled.

Logan yanked on the bottom of Katie's shirt. "My brother can't swim! He's going to die! Help him!" Logan cried.

Landon's body drifted beneath the water and disappeared.

Having had the time of their lives, Bane and Bianca entered Leslie's house. When Bianca entered the den, she walked straight up to Leslie. "Thanks for watching the boys for me."

"Oh, it was my pleasure," Leslie said.

Bianca noticed Logan and Landon weren't on the patio with the rest of the children. "Where are they?"

Putting her hands on her hips, Leslie looked out at the patio. "They were out there a few moments ago. Hmmm. I wonder where they went."

Bianca became worried. Noticing Katie wasn't there either, she went to speak with Josh. Josh was sitting at the table playing UNO with the other teenagers.

"Josh," Bianca said. Josh threw down a card, then looked up at her. "Where's Katie and the boys?"

Josh shrugged. "Don't know." He threw down another card. "Take that! I won!"

Jaheem stated, "I saw Katie outside with the boys a little while ago."

Abigail's concerns about Katie came rushing back into Bianca's mind, and she started to panic. She ran inside the house to get Bane. Bane and his father and brothers were standing in a circle talking.

"The boys and Katie are missing. Jaheem said he saw them in the back yard a little while ago, but they're gone. Oh God, what if something happened to them?"

Colton stated, "I hope Katie didn't venture out into them woods, because those animals out there are dangerous."

Leslie came running from downstairs up to them. "I've searched the entire house and can't find them. This is all my fault. I should've been watching them closer."

Bane said, "It's not your fault, Leslie. Katie's a teenager, and she should know better than to leave without telling anyone or getting permission. I'm going to search the woods for them. Let me grab a flashlight." Bane hastened to the kitchen.

"Grab all of the flashlights! We're going with you!" Colton shouted after him.

Bane quickly returned with the flashlights. He handed one to Colton, Zeke, Suade, Richmond and Bianca. Panic stricken, Bianca and the men walked outback.

Standing at the beginning of the forest, Bane pointed to his right. "Dad and Zeke...you two go that way." He pointed to the center. "Suade and Richmond, you search the center. Bianca and I will search the left and head down to the lake."

The group departed.

Circling their flashlights over the wooded area, Bane and Bianca walked along the trail of the forest. Bianca felt momentary panic as she feared the worst.

She pushed a branch aside. "Logan! Landon! Where are you?!"

"Katie!" Bane shouted. "Logan! Landon!"

_Why would Katie do something so stupid?_ Bianca wondered, walking deeper into the woods. Abigail had said she shouldn't trust Katie. Oh God, why hadn't she listened?

"Katie!" Bane shouted again. "Logan! Landon!"

The sounds of crickets chirped in Bianca's ears. Her eyes were bordered with tears. "Something's wrong, Bane."

"They're fine, Bianca. My family knows these woods like the back of our hands. We'll find them."

Suddenly, a loud scream pierced the night. "Daddy!" Katie came running from the woods. Her hair and clothing were soaking wet. "I tried, Daddy! I tried."

"Where's Logan and Landon?" Bianca asked, praying that her fears were premature.

Katie cried. "They're...oh God, I tried, Daddy. Please don't be mad."

Bane clutched Katie's shoulders and shook her. "Katie! Where are they?!"

"In the lake."

Bianca's heart dropped. "In the lake?! They can't swim!"

Bane took off running. Crying her heart out, Bianca scurried behind him. When they reached the lake, Logan was standing there crying.

"Oh my God! Where's your brother, Logan?!"

Logan pointed to the lake. "He fell in the water. He's dead, Mommy."

"Noooo!" Crying, Bianca whipped out her cell phone. Her fingers shook as she dialed 911.

Bane jumped in the lake and dove beneath the water. His head popped back up, then he dove back down again. Seconds later, Bane stood in the center of the lake holding Landon's lifeless looking body. "I got him!"

Bane ran out of the lake, placed Landon on the ground, and began CPR.

Bianca got on her knees beside Landon. Cupping the sides of his face, she kissed his forehead. "Breathe, Landon. Please breathe for Mommy." She glanced up at Katie. "How could you let this happen to him?! You did this on purpose!"

"No, I didn't!" Katie cried. "He jumped in!"

"You're lying! You're evil!" Bianca turned her focus back to her son.

Bane administered chest compressions to Landon. "Breathe, dammit. Come on, breathe." Pinching his nose, he blew into Landon's mouth, then continued with the chest compressions.

Water spurted from Landon's mouth. His eyes opened. He briefly stared at Bianca. "Mommy," he cried.

"He's breathing! Oh God, he's breathing!" Bianca gathered Landon in her arms. She peppered Landon's wet face with lots of sweet kisses.

Tilting his head back, Bane gazed up at the dark sky. He put his hands in a prayer symbol. "Thank you, God! For saving my son! Thank you."

Still on his knees, Bane outstretched his arms to Logan and pulled him into his lap. He wrapped his free arm around Bianca. Crying tears of joy, the four of them held onto one another as if their lives depended on it.

TWO DAYS later, Bane and Bianca stood inside his penthouse, having a heated discussion. "I know you don't want to hear this, Bane, but what happened at the lake was not an accident. What happened to Jada wasn't an accident either. I think she killed Abigail, too."

Bane swallowed hard and boldly met Bianca's gaze. "You're right. I don't want to hear it. Katie's not a murderer, Bianca. Does she have problems? Yes." Putting his hands to his hips, he shook his head. "But to say she tried to drown Logan on purpose and killed Jada and Abigail is farfetched. You're wrong about Katie." He shrugged. "Besides, why would she kill Abigail?"

Bianca touched Bane's arm. "I don't know why. Maybe somehow she found out that Abigail was doing some research on her."

His eyes widened with frustration. "You had Abigail researching Katie's background?" he snorted.

Bianca nodded. "Yes, I did. Something's not right about Katie. You have to believe me."

Bane threw his hands up. "Oh, that's just great. You don't trust my judgment? The last thing I need is to be involved with another insecure woman. I had enough of that insecure shit with Courtney."

Water shot into Bianca's eyes. "That's so unfair, Bane."

Bane grumbled. "No, what's unfair is for you to be thinking negative about my kids!"

"Well, my child almost died because of your child!"

Bianca's words unleashed something inside him. "How many times do I have to tell you Katie is not like that! She's a sweet girl and wouldn't hurt a fly. You're just insecure, that's all!"

Bianca shook her head. Discontent shone in her eyes. "You're right. I am insecure. And the way I feel now...I have no desire to ever be around you or your crazy ass, wannabe daughter!" She spun around and headed for the door.

Bane sighed heavily. This argument was draining him. "Where are you going?"

"Home!"

When Bianca opened the door, Bane slammed it shut. She jumped. "You can't go home."

"Why can't I?"

"Because you're not off work yet," he spat.

"I quit!"

_Oh, hell no, you're not!_ The thought of her leaving disturbed him. Made his mood tamper down. "Why are we fighting over our children?" he asked, softening his tone.

Shifting her weight, Bianca sniffed. "Because your child tried to kill mine...that's why. And you're acting like it's no big deal."

Leaning closer into her, Bane flattened his palms on the door on either side of her head. "I don't mean any harm, Bianca. I just disagree with you. This is our first argument." He kissed her lips. "How about we go in the bedroom and make up?" His cock twitched.

Bianca sucked her teeth. "How could you even think about having sex at a time like this?"

"Because..." he kissed her lips, "I love you."

"If you love me, prove it."

"Prove it how?" he asked, kissing her cheek. Her throat. Then her lips again.

"Have Katie investigated, like you're doing Courtney."

Bane lowered his arms to his sides. "I'm not doing that, Bianca. That's asking too much."

Bianca's lips pinched together like a perfect bow. "I guess there's nothing else for us to talk about, then. Goodbye, Bane." She walked out of the door.

Bane's heart grappled as he held onto the doorframe and watched Bianca walk away. The elevator doors glided open. Without looking back at him, Bianca stepped on. A look of despair was on her face as the doors closed. Shutting the door, Bane felt like that would be the very last time that he'd ever see her.

Disgruntled, he plopped down on the sofa. He rested his head on the sofa's curb and glanced up at the ceiling. Torn, his heart ached. He'd been a damn fool for thinking he could marry Bianca and adopt four children. Blended families never worked, so why was he agonizing over it?

Bianca was a good woman. For her to say such horrible things about Katie...maybe she truly believed what she was saying. Well, she was wrong. Dead wrong. And just because he loved Bianca, he wasn't going to send Josh and Katie back to the orphanage. They needed him. They deserved to be happy. Whether Bianca liked it or not, he was going to legally adopt them, and he didn't give a damn about how she felt.

Bane grunted. His shoulders were knotted. "Women," he groaned. Needing to release some built up tension, he went inside his bedroom, changed into his gym clothing, and went for a jog on the beach.

While jogging along the beach with earplugs tucked into his ears, sand kicked up from the heels of his sneakers. The sun blazed down on him. The rolling sea crashed against the edges of the sand. It was so peaceful out there.

Two miles later, Bane turned around and jogged back towards his home. Four complete miles accomplished, he stopped jogging when the hotel came into view. Catching his breath, he bent over and grabbed his knees.

Straightening his stance, he stared at the ocean. Damn, how had he let himself fall in love with Bianca? A part of him felt like he couldn't live without her. Like he needed her in order to be happy. God had sent Bianca to him, and there was no way he was going to lose her over something so stupid.

"I have to make her understand." Turning on his heels, Bane jogged along the sandy path at the rear of the hotel, then entered inside. After he showered, he put in an important phone call to his personal jeweler.

Three rings later, Benjamin Goldsmith answered. "Goldsmith Heritage Jewelry...Ben speaking."

"Ben. This is Bane Balfour. How's it going?"

"Bane! I'm great, man! It's a pleasure to hear your voice. How have you been?"

Bane headed for the balcony. "I'm doing pretty good. Can't complain. It doesn't do any good anyways."

"That's for sure. How can I help you?"

Switching the cell to his left ear, he took a seat at the table. "I'm getting married," he said confidently, "and I want to buy my wife to be the most beautiful ring you have."

"No problem. I can help you with that. What's your price range?"

"I don't want to go over ten million."

Ben chuckled. "Ten million will get you a whole lot of ring. She must be some woman."

"Yes, she is. She's a very special lady. When's your next available appointment? I'd like to get this done ASAP."

"I'm available today. How does an hour from now work for you?"

"An hour from now would be great. See you soon." With a big smile on his face, Bane ended the call and waited patiently for Ben to arrive.

A cool breeze blew onto the balcony. In deep thought, Bane crossed his legs at the knees. Marrying Bianca would make his life complete and make him a very happy man. However, there was no denying that bringing both families together was going to be the biggest challenge he'd ever faced. Because he loved Bianca so much, he was up for the challenge.

His proposal to Bianca had to be perfect. Bane hefted his cell phone and dialed.

"Good afternoon, Mr. Balfour. How may I assist you today?" his private pilot, Mark, asked.

"Good afternoon, Mark. I'm flying to Paris this evening. Please get the jet ready."

"Will do, sir. What time are we leaving?" Mark questioned.

"Six."

"Everything will be prepared to your liking when you arrive."

"Thanks, Mark." Bane tapped the red button, disconnecting the call.

A knock resounded on the door. _That must be Ben._ Bane crossed the den and opened the front door.

Ben, a stocky white man with brown beard, stood before him with a smile as wide as the Mississippi River on his face. "I got here as fast as I could," he said, crossing over the threshold.

"What did you do, speed?"

Ben laughed. "Yeah. Like I tell my wife, I didn't buy a Porsche to drive it slow."

Anxious, Bane escorted Ben to the dining room. They took a seat at the long rectangular table with lion claw legs.

Ben propped his leather briefcase up on the table. "Wait till I show you what I have for that special lady in your life." He popped the lid on his briefcase. Rows of sparkling rings were tucked into the velvet slits.

"Wow. I don't know where to start. They're all so beautiful."

Ben plucked a platinum ring with a shimmering yellow diamond from the slit and held it to Bane's face. "This is my favorite. She'll be sure to say yes to this beauty."

Bane held the ring in his hand and marveled. The daffodil-color rock was mounted with diamonds glistening along the sides. It had such extraordinary fire and brilliance.

"It's breathtaking." _Like my Bianca._

"What you're holding is a twenty-two carat, yellow diamond halo ring called the _Dream Diamond_. I purchased it from Kimberley, South Africa, and it's valued right at ten million."

"I'll take it."

"But you haven't seen the others yet."

"When you've found what you want, there's no need to look any further," he stated, having applied that same take on his bride-to-be, Bianca.

After Ben wrapped up Bane's transaction, the two men sat chatting for a while, then he left. Very pleased with his purchase, Bane sat the ring on the dresser inside his bedroom. Boy, did he have big plans for Bianca, he thought, texting her.

**Bane:** I need to see you. Can we meet later today around six?

**Bianca:** I don't think that's a good idea.

**Bane:** Why not?

**Bianca:** I need time to think.

**Bane:** You can think while I'm holding you? How does that sound?

**Bianca:** Maybe we should take a break from each other for a while.

**Bane:** I disagree and think it's a bad idea. I'm not taking no for an answer. I love you.

Five minutes had passed, and Bianca still hadn't responded to Bane's last text. _Stubborn behind woman_ , Bane thought, slipping his cell phone in the clip while grabbing his wallet from the fireplace mantel. He began making his way toward the front door. Come hell or high water, he was going to change that attitude of hers. Even if he had to drag her out of the damn house, he was going to see her and fly her to Paris tonight.

"Tonight is the night," he mumbled, exiting his penthouse.

BIANCA REREAD Bane's last text message, then slipped the cell phone in her front shirt pocket. Still at work, she stared out the bedroom window of the nineteenth floor of the hotel. Out of anger, she'd told Bane that she'd quit, but as broke as she was, she couldn't afford to quit. _I'm trapped,_ she thought, heading for the messy bed.

After she made the bed, she cleaned the bathroom, vacuumed the floor, and tidied up the kitchen. Contemplating if she should text Bane back, she entered the living room. Suddenly, the front door flung open.

"What's up, girl!" Hannah asked, walking in with a big smile plastered on her face.

"Nothing," Bianca said in a soft voice.

Hannah flopped down on the sofa and kicked her feet up on the table. "Give me the scoop on you and the billionaire!"

"We broke up."

Hannah gasped. "Broke up? Oh no...what happened?"

Bianca struggled not to cry. She had the worst luck in the world. If it weren't for her boys and parents, she'd lose her mind.

She sat beside Hannah. "We had a disagreement about our kids."

"People argue about their kids all the time. Y'all will be back together."

"I don't know about that, Hannah."

Hannah turned sideways. "No offense, but you'd be a damn fool to let Bane go. Men like him are rare. If I were you, I wouldn't stay mad for too long. Somebody will snatch him up just like that." She snapped her fingers to emphasize her point.

"Things are just so complicated, Hannah."

Hannah touched her shoulder. "Go talk with Bane and work it out. You'll feel so much better once you do."

"I don't know. Maybe we just need some space."

Hannah shook her head. "Space, my ass. Keep playing. Somebody gon' take your place. Hell, I want you to hook me up with one of Bane's cousins or his stepbrother. So I need for you to fix your relationship with him. Okay?"

Bianca laughed. "You're too funny, Hannah."

"I'm dead ass serious. I want the hook up. Hell, I'm tired of being by myself. It's been so long since I've been with a man, I can't remember the last time I got fucked."

Bianca cracked up laughing. "You'll find somebody."

"No! You'll find me somebody." Hannah looked at her watch, then stood. "My break is over."

Bianca stood. "Mines, too. Thanks for cheering me up."

"That's what friends are for. Now go find your man and make up with him."

"I will."

They left the room and went their separate ways.

Full of energy, Katie entered the penthouse and headed straight for the kitchen. Removing her backpack from her shoulders, she lowered it to the table. She was starving. She looked inside the refrigerator for something to eat. Unable to find anything to her liking, she shut the door, hefted the phone from the receiver, and dialed room service.

"Room service. How may I help you?"

"I'd like to order a pepperoni pizza, some fries, and a vanilla shake."

"You should receive your order in thirty minutes."

"Thirty minutes! I'm starving. Y'all need to do better than that and hurry up," Katie said adamantly.

"We'll try our hardest."

"Do better than try. Just do it," Katie snapped, then hung up.

Sitting at the kitchen table, she unzipped her backpack and reached inside for the Victoria's Secret bag. She pulled the pink sexy negligee from the bag and headed for Bane's bedroom to try it on.

As she stood in front of the mirror holding the negligee up to her body, she noticed a purple velvet box on the dresser. She picked up the tiny box and popped back the lid. Inside was a gigantic yellow diamond.

"Is this an engagement ring?"

Lizzy popped up beside Katie and slapped her hands to her cheeks. _Bane's going to ask Bianca to marry him. We have to stop this, Katie! I told you a long time ago to kill that bitch. Now look. He done bought her a ring. He's going to marry Bianca, and we're going to be left out in the cold._

Katie plucked the ring from the slit and slipped it on her wedding finger. Tears welled in her eyes as she looked at Lizzy. _This should be mine, Lizzy._

_It can be yours. Seduce Bane. Tonight._

A cold knot balled in Katie's stomach. _He'll never sleep with me._

_Yes, he will. Andrew did._

_Andrew only slept with me because he thought I was older. Besides, Bane and Andrew are two different types of men._

Lizzy touched Katie's shoulder. _No, they're not. They both have dicks. And everyone knows that men think with their dicks, and not their brains, Katie. You only have two choices: kill Bianca or seduce Bane. What's it going to be, Katie? Which one are you going to do?_

With a moan of distress, Katie nodded. _I guess I'll seduce him._ She texted Bane.

**Katie:** Where are you? I really need to talk to you.

**Bane:** In my office. What's wrong?

**Katie:** Can you come home now? It's an EMERGENCY.

**Bane:** On my way.

Katie lowered her cell to the dresser. As she headed for the bathroom, Lizzy followed her. She removed her clothing, slipped on the negligee, and stared at herself in the mirror.

Standing behind her, Lizzy cupped Katie's shoulders. _You look so pretty, Katie. Bane is going to love you in this._

Katie turned to face Lizzy. _I hope our plan doesn't backfire._

Lizzy gripped Katie's upper arms. _It won't. Bane loves you. Who knows? Maybe the ring is for you, and not for Bianca._

Katie left the bathroom. She closed the bedroom door. Wanting to set a romantic mood, she closed the blinds, turned off the lights, and pressed the button on the wall.

Slow music streamed from the speaker in the ceiling. Turning back the covers, she climbed into bed and waited for Bane. "God, I hope this works," she mumbled, covering herself with the linen.

_Me, too,_ Lizzy said, lying in bed beside her. _And remember...don't call him Daddy._

"Katie!" Bane called out.

At the sound of Bane's voice, Katie became nervous. "I'm in here."

The bedroom door cracked open. Bane's tall shadow stood beneath the arch. "Why are you in my bed? Are you sick?" he asked, flipping on the lights.

Lying on her back, the covers were all the way up to her chin. "No."

Bane sat on the mattress beside Katie. "What's the emergency?"

"I have something to tell you."

"What?"

"I love you."

Bane smiled. "I love you, too, Katie."

Her insides perked up. "You do?"

"Yeah, I do."

Katie eased the cover from her body, sat up in bed, and cupped Bane's jaws. "I love you so much." She pecked his lips.

Bane's face contorted. He jumped from the bed. "That was so inappropriate! What do you have on?" he asked, wiping his mouth.

Katie climbed out of bed. "I know you've seen negligees before."

Bane backed away from her and stopped when his back touched the dresser. His eyes raked up and down her body. His brows grew in an angry frown. "Why do you have on the ring I bought for Bianca?"

Katie stared into Bane's eyes. She pushed the negligee straps down her shoulders, rolled the material over her hips, then kicked it aside. "Do you like what you see?" she asked, standing naked before him.

Bane's mouth thinned with displeasure. Shutting his eyes, he turned his back to Katie. "Jesus Christ. Bianca was right about you. I couldn't see it, but she was right."

Katie wrapped her arms around Bane's waist and nuzzled her face into his spine. "Make love to me, Bane."

Bane spun. He gently clutched Katie's shoulders. "Katie...you're sick and need help. I'm going to make an appointment for you to see the doctor. By the time I get back, please have on your clothes and be ready to leave."

"Leave? Where am I going?"

"Back to the orphanage." Bane turned on his heels and left the penthouse.

KATIE'S MENTALLY _disturbed._ Blown the hell away, Bane steered the car down the road. How could he have been so blind about Katie? Was Josh crazy like her, too? Just who in the heck was living with him? Did Katie kill Abigail? What about Jada?

Bane's cell phone rang. He pressed the button on his dashboard. "Hello?"

"Bane. It's Don," the private investigator said. "You have a second?"

Flicking on his blinker, he merged into the right lane. "Yeah."

"I did some digging on Courtney, and everything about her is squeaky clean. I don't think she poisoned, Bianca. However, I had one of my workers go undercover and befriend Courtney. According to my employee, Courtney told him that she saw Katie pour something in Bianca's food while she was in the restroom."

"Jesus Christ, Don!"

"That's not the half of it. After I got that little tad bit of information, I did an extensive background check on both Josh and Katie. Come to find out, Katie used to be in the mental institution for killing her father. She's bipolar, Bane. As sweet as she may look, she's a very dangerous girl."

Bane cursed. He sped the car up into Bianca's parents' driveway and hopped out. "Thanks for the information, Don."

"No problem. Be safe, man."

They hung up.

Bane rang the doorbell. A few seconds later, Sandra opened the door. "Hey, Bane. I'm surprised to see you."

"Is Bianca here?"

"No. I just got off the phone with her. She's still at work."

At work? He thought she'd quit. He snatched his cell from the clip and called Bianca. However, she didn't pick up. His mind racing with negative thoughts, he texted her.

**Bane:** You were right. Give me a call ASAP. It's urgent.

Bane told Sandra, "If you talk to Bianca, please tell her to call me immediately." He jogged back to his car, hopped in, and sped off.

Bianca swiped the key card over the lock and entered Bane's penthouse. She walked inside his bedroom to find it empty. Noticing the covers on the bed were messy, she wondered if he was upstairs.

Bianca's hand glided along the rail as she mounted the steps. Reaching the second floor, she turned left. "Bane, are you up here?" She looked inside Josh's room for him, but he wasn't there. She then walked into Katie's room, and he wasn't there either.

Glancing around Katie's room, she wondered where everyone was. Normally, Josh and Katie would be home from school by now. Oh well, she guessed she'd just wait downstairs for Bane.

Right when she reached the door to leave Katie's bedroom, she paused. _Katie tried to kill Landon on purpose. I just know it. It wouldn't surprise me if she killed Abigail, too. I need proof._

Bianca turned and walked over to the dresser. She pulled out the top drawer and began searching through Katie's belongings. Her eyes quickly brushed over the Social Security card at the top right corner. Her hands floundered through sheets of loose paper. She picked up a notebook and flipped through the pages. Nothing but algebra notes were inside.

Everything inside her told her that she was right about Katie. Looking for evidence to prove her suspicions were correct, she thoroughly searched Katie's closet. As she rummaged through the dirty hamper, she remembered the box that Katie kept beneath the bed.

She hastened to the bed, got down on her knees, and looked beneath. The grey box was still there. She grabbed it.

Sitting on the bed, she tried to pry the box open, but it was locked. Darn. She hurried inside Katie's bathroom and found a steel nail file. She inserted the nail file into the lock, wiggled it, and it clicked open.

"Got it," Bianca said softly. She opened the lid to find a silver wedding band inside. Thinking it looked familiar, she picked it up and read the engraving on the inside of the band. _To Andrew with love._

Bianca's mouth flew open. Her heart dunked. She started panicking.

_Ohmygod! This is Andrew's ring!_ her mind screamed. Squeezing the ring in her hand, she rushed over to the dresser, flung out the top drawer and retrieved the Social Security card she'd seen moments ago. It read: _Katie Elizabeth._ Andrew had been emailing someone by the name of Kelizabeth.

Katie was Andrew's mistress!

Bianca's knees buckled. She clenched her chest. As Bianca faced the dresser, suddenly Katie's reflection appeared.

"Why are you in my room?" Katie asked.

Her heart beating harshly, Bianca whirled and faced Katie.

Katie's eyes narrowed. Tilting her head, she balled her fists. Her eyes traveled to the grey box on the dresser, then back at Bianca's face. "I see you found Andrew's ring."

"You're KElizabeth? You had an affair with my husband?"

"Yeah." She stepped forward. "Andrew was sooo good in bed." Stopping in her tracks, she covered her ears. "Be quiet, Lizzy. Don't tell her." Katie shook her head. "You told me to kill Andrew, so it's both our faults!"

Bianca's heart split down the freaking center. "You killed Andrew?"

Katie's hands flew from her ears. She nodded. "Yeah. Lizzy told me to shoot him." Her eyes misted. "She wants me to kill you, too."

"You're not good enough for Bane. I hate you!" Katie lurched forward. Bianca jumped out of the way. Katie's body slammed into the dresser.

Bianca made an attempt to run out of the room. Right when she reached the doorway, Katie wound her hand in the back of her hair and yanked hard. Bianca's head snapped back. She plummeted to the floor.

Katie hopped on top of her, grabbed the sides of her face, and repeatedly slammed her head into the floor. Struggling to remain conscious, Bianca's eyes rolled. She wrapped her hands around Katie's throat and squeezed.

_Get off me! Get off me!_

Katie clenched her teeth. She steadily slammed Bianca's head into the floor. "I'm going to teach you a lesson, like I taught Abigail!"

_Fake dead, Bianca,_ the voice whispered inside Bianca's head. Shutting her eyes, Bianca stilled her body and pretended to be dead.

Finally, Katie released Bianca's throbbing head. Bianca felt when Katie climbed off her.

"We did it, Lizzy," Katie said, kicking Bianca's side.

_Unk._ Bianca remained frozen.

"Oh no, Lizzy. What are we going to do with her dead body?" Silence. Nothing. "Yeah. I'll throw her off the balcony and make it look like she committed suicide. Just like I put the gun in Andrew's hand and made it look like he committed suicide." Katie hooked her arms beneath Bianca's shoulders and dragged her body across the carpet.

When Bianca heard the balcony door squeak, her eyes shot open. Catching Katie off guard, she sprung to her feet and punched her in the stomach. Katie clenched her stomach and stumbled onto the balcony.

Bianca charged Katie, and they started tussling.

A glass flew off the table and shattered the floor.

Furniture was knocked over.

Grinding her teeth, Katie slammed Bianca against the balcony's railing and shoved her hard. Bianca's body flew over the rail. With her feet dangling in the air, she held on tight to the iron bars.

Glancing upward, Bianca felt her grip slipping. She begged for her life. "Help me, Katie! Help meeee!!!"

Katie smirked. "Bane's mine! He's mine--"

Suddenly, Bane stormed up behind Katie. "No, I'm not!" He grabbed Katie's neck from behind, strangled her, and slammed her head into the wall.

Katie plummeted to the floor.

Bane leaned over the railing and outstretched his hand to Bianca. "Give me your hand, Bianca!"

Bianca's feet kicked wildly. She felt her grip on the bars loosening. Oh God, she was going to fall. "I'm scared, Bane!" she yelled, feeling her hands slipping from the railing.

"You have to trust me! Give me your hand!"

When Bianca outstretched her right hand to Bane, he gripped it tight, then pulled her over the railing. As Bianca cried in his strong embrace, her shoulders shook up and down.

She peered down at Katie. Katie's lifeless looking body was sprawled out on the ground. Blood seeped from her skull, and she wasn't moving.

"It's okay, Bianca," he said, caressing her spine. "I'm so sorry for doubting you. Please forgive me. I love you."

With her arms encircling Bane's waist, Bianca wept like a baby. "I love you, too, Bane."

A week later

DRESSED IN an ivory winter coat and matching leather gloves, Bianca climbed the steps of the private aircraft behind Bane. Cold December air blew hair across her face as she swiped at a fallen bang. She entered the jet to find the inside nice and warm.

"I can't believe I'm going to Paris," she said, shrugging off her coat.

Bane took Bianca's coat and placed it in the closet. Draping his arms around her waist, he kissed her lips. "Paris is such a lovely place, and I can't wait to show you it."

"I'm so excited, I can hardly stand it."

"Me, too."

"Mr. Balfour. We will depart in five minutes," the pilot announced. "Please have a seat, and buckle your seatbelts."

Bane and Bianca sat down beside one another and buckled their seatbelts. Short minutes later, the jet sped down the runway and shot into the air. As Bianca stared out the window, the city finally disappeared from her viewing, and now all she saw were white, fluffy clouds.

The intercom buzzed. "We are now flying 35,000 feet in the air. You may now take off your seatbelts."

Bane stood. He walked over to the bar, opened a bottle of chilled wine, and filled two glasses. Returning to his seat, he handed a glass to Bianca.

"Thanks." As Bianca sipped on the wine, she noticed something sparkling inside her drink. "I think there's something in my drink," she said, holding the glass up to her eyes. Sticking her fingers in the wine, she pulled out a big, gigantic, yellow diamond ring. Stunned, her mouth parted. She covered her lips to stop them from trembling. "Oh, Bane. What is this?"

Bane's firm lips drew into a pleasant grin. He gently wrapped his fingers around her wrist and pulled her hand from her mouth. "Bianca, I love you more than words can describe. The first time I saw you in the florist shop, I fell in love with you. And if you'll let me, I'd like to love you for the rest of my life. I'd like to adopt Logan and Landon and love them for the rest of my life, too. Will you marry me?"

Water pooled Bianca's eyes. Nodding, a tear streamed down her face. "Yes, Bane. I'll marry you." She cupped his jaw. "Thank you so much."

Using his thumb, he wiped a tear from her face. He kissed the tip of her nose. "Don't thank me. I'm the lucky one."

Bane took the ring from Bianca's hand, slid it on her wedding finger, and kissed her hand. The yellow diamond sparkled brightly on her finger. "It's so beautiful, Bane. I love it."

"By agreeing to marry me, you've made me the happiest man alive. There's only one thing that could make me happier."

"What's that?"

"Give me a house full of babies."

Oh my, she hadn't planned on having any more children. But for Bane, she'd do anything. "I'd love to have your babies, Bane Balfour."

"I'm glad to hear you say that." Bane slanted his mouth over Bianca's, slipped his tongue inside, and kissed her sweetly.

Long hours later, Bianca arrived at the Parisian _Balfour Hotel & Resort,_ right near the Eiffel Tower. Greeting them with a pleasant smile, the bellman pulled open the door. Scanning the inside of the luxurious hotel, Bianca marveled at the lights, color, and at how whimsical it was. Full of shimmering chandeliers, the Versailles-inspired lobby stole her breath.

Bianca pointed at the golden lock key bridge in front of the water fountain. "Oh Bane, that's so beautiful."

"To put a bridge there was my idea. I thought it'd be good for taking pictures."

Bane tugged Bianca's hand. "I have an engagement present for you."

"You do? What?"

Bypassing the lobby, they rounded the corner. Bane pointed. "That."

Bianca was shocked. Reading the sign on the store, her hand slipped from his. _Bianca's Floral Designs._ She covered her mouth. "It has my name on it."

Staring at the sign, Bane clenched Bianca's hips. "That's because this is your flower shop."

"Oh Bane, my own florist shop! This is the best present ever!"

"When we get back home, throw away your maid's uniform, because we're putting a florist with your name on it in the hotel in Hilton Head, too."

"This is what I've always wanted. Thank you so much."

Love gleamed in Bane's eyes. "No, thank you for agreeing to be my wife. I'm going to spoil you and the boys rotten."

"And I promise to be the best wife ever. I love you so much."

Bane drew Bianca's body to his and held her. "I love you, too, Bianca."

Lighthouse Mental Institution

Katie sat on the floor inside the solitaire room with her arms folded across her chest. Rocking back and forth, her tangled hair was knotted on the ends. She hated the white cotton clothing she was wearing. Everything inside the windowless stupid room was white. The walls. The bench. Even the freaking light bulb in the dumb ass ceiling was white.

With her hands handcuffed to the front, Katie reached inside her bra and pulled out a picture of Bane. Caressing his face with her thumb, she smiled. "I love you. I love you not. You love me. You love me not," she spoke to the handsome photo of Bane.

The door opened, and in walked her brother.

"Josh!" Katie shouted, quickly slipping the photo of Bane back into her bra. She smiled.

Josh hugged her, then sat on the bench. His eyes scanned the room. "How are you?"

Katie sucked her teeth. "You have to get me out of here, Josh. I'm going plum crazy. I'm losing my damn mind."

"This place is good for you, Katie. The doctors here are going to help you get better."

"So I'm not going home today?"

Raw hurt developed in Josh's eyes as he shook his head. "No, Katie. You're not going home."

Weeping noises crept into Katie's ears. She looked sideways. Lizzy was standing in the corner with her arms folded and crying. _Josh doesn't love us anymore. He's a traitor, too._

"Get out, Josh!" Katie screamed.

Josh shrugged. "But I just got here."

"Nurse! Nurse! Nurse!"

The door flung open. The nurse stormed into the room. Right when the nurse reached Katie, she kicked her in the stomach and ran out of the room.

_I'm getting out of here!_ Scurrying down the narrow hallway, Katie hit the button on the wall and the doors opened. She ran outside. She glanced to her right, then to her left. She ran straight into traffic.

Dodging in and out of cars, a loud horn blasted her ears. Katie froze. Wheels screeching, the car slammed on brakes, barely missing her.

"I got something for you!" The nurse jabbed a needle into the side of Katie's neck.

The hot medicine traveled quickly through Katie's veins, and she became demobilized. Her limbs stiffened. Her vision blurred.

Feeling paralyzed, Katie's eyes rolled. As she fell towards the ground, Josh caught her. After he placed her on the stretcher, the nurses rolled her unhappy behind right back inside the mental institution where she guessed Lizzy and she would spend the rest of their miserable lives.

SIX MONTHS later, on a perfect June day, Bianca's wedding finally arrived. Inside the upstairs room at the church, Bianca glanced at herself in the mirror. The white, pearl beaded Vera Wang gown she had on looked pretty and fit her perfect.

Becoming teary eyed, Bianca slipped the pearl veil on her head. She couldn't believe she was marrying Bane, the man of her dreams. A man who loved her and her children and whose family had welcomed her into their lives with open arms. She was the luckiest girl alive.

Sandra walked up to Bianca. Looking her up and down, she smiled. "Ahh, look at my daughter. You look beautiful, Bianca."

"Thanks, Mom. You look pretty, too," Bianca said, admiring the gold colored dress her mother wore.

Sandra touched Bianca's cheek. "My baby's getting married to a wonderful man. I'm so happy for you."

"Me, too," Leslie said, walking up behind Bianca. Smiling, Leslie grabbed Bianca's hands. "Although Bane is my stepson...I feel like I gave birth to him. He's a special man, and I'm glad he's marrying you, because you're such a special woman."

"Ahh. That's so sweet of you to say, Leslie."

Bianca's bridesmaids...Sandella, Kayla, Taylor, Sasha, and Hannah looked ravishing in their gold colored bridal dresses as they stood near the door talking. As she walked over to the ladies, the long train on the dresses dragged against the floor.

Sandella handed Bianca her ivory and gold bouquet, overflowing with baby breaths. "I know I've said it a million times, but thank you ladies for being my bridesmaids," she said, grateful for their friendship. Gosh, she sure wished Abigail could be here today. Abigail was probably up in heaven cheering her on.

"We're happy to be a part of your wedding," Sandella stated.

Nodding, Kayla smiled. "Yeah. Thanks for having us."

"Ditto." Taylor held up a diamond garter to Bianca's face. "Here's something blue."

Sandra said, "You can use this old picture of your father and me on our wedding day for something old." Using a safety pin, Sandra attached the picture to the handle of the bouquet.

Bianca tapped the bottom of her right ear. "I'm wearing Leslie's earrings for something borrowed."

"Those diamonds are huge!" Hannah practically shouted.

Something old. Something new. Something borrowed, and something blue. She was now good to go. The ladies left the room and made their way downstairs.

Bianca's nerves were on edge as she stood outside the church doors beside her father. "I know I've already said it, but you look beautiful, Bianca."

"Thanks, Dad."

"Bane better treat you right. Because if he doesn't, he's going to have to answer to me, and it ain't gon' be pretty."

The wedding march began playing. The church doors softly glided open. Bianca's gaze traveled to the front of the church and linked with Bane's. Love swirled around in her heart. Bane looked so handsome in his black tuxedo as he stood in front of the wedding arch.

Look at my beautiful wife. _She looks like a princess_ , Bane thought as he watched Bianca walk down the aisle in an elegant white gown. Warmth infused his heart.

To have a woman like Bianca...he was the luckiest man on Earth. For the rest of his life, he was going to make sure that she never wanted for anything. He was going to make sure that her boys and parents were well taken care of, too.

When Bianca reached him, she stopped. She smiled at him, then at Logan and Landon, who were standing by his sides.

The pastor started, "Friends and family of Bane and Bianca, welcome and thank you for being here on this important day. We are gathered together to celebrate the very special love between Bane and Bianca, by joining them in marriage. All of us need and desire to love and be loved. And the highest form of love between two people is within a monogamous, committed relationship. Bane and Bianca, your marriage today is the public and legal joining of your souls that have already been united as one in your hearts."

The pastor dabbled at the sweat on his forehead with a white cloth, then continued. "Marriage will allow you a new environment to share your lives together, standing together to face life and the world, hand in hand. Marriage is going to expand you as individuals, define you as a couple, and deepen your love for one another. To be successful, you will need strength, courage, patience, and a really good sense of humor. So, let your marriage be a time of waking up each morning and falling in love with each other all over again. Now. Who gives this man and this woman to be married?"

"I do," Lucas said, then took his seat beside Sandra.

Bane outstretched his hand to Bianca. When their fingers touched, hot fire coursed through his veins and jumped straight into his heart. This was where he wanted to be. He wanted to spend the rest of his life with this beautiful woman--Bianca.

After the minister was done officiating the wedding, Bane and Bianca faced their guests. Rounds of applause filled the air. The song _Why I Love You_ by _Major_ streamed from the speakers of the church.

Holding hands, Bane and Bianca made their way down the aisle. For the first time in Bane's life, he felt whole. He'd never been happier. He knew, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that Bianca and he would live happily ever after.

_The End_

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Book 7 in The Brides of Hilton Head Island Series is out now!!!

Please find below the first two chapters for your enjoyment.

Ricky & Amber's Love Story

August 2009

Savannah Georgia; 11:49 pm

THICK MIST lingered along Talmadge Memorial Bridge in Chatham County. Cool water treaded beneath. Not far from downtown, on the poor side of town, the full moon shined down on the ancient two-story house where all hell was about to break loose.

Sleeping in his twin-sized bed, fourteen-year-old Norman stirred when he heard his mother giggling. His eyes fluttered opened. _Mama's home!_ He rejoiced inwardly, a warm smile coming to his face.

Glad that his mother had finally come home from her night job, Norman couldn't wait to tell her his good news. She was going to be so proud of him, she might even give him a few dollars.

Excited, Norman flung the sheets off his body, snatched the certificate off the dresser and scurried down the hallway. When he reached his mother's bedroom, his feet stilled. Shock flew through him.

His mother wasn't alone. Some man was with her.

Disbelieving his eyes, Norman blinked. Who's that man? And why were they dressed so fancy? he wondered, standing to the side of the door, trying to figure out what in the heck was going on.

Dressed in a sharp navy suit, the unfamiliar man aligned his back to the dresser and draped his arms around his mother's waist. Wearing a white knee-length dress, Norman's mother twined her arms behind the man's neck.

His white pale face split into a grin. "Mindy, you've made me the happiest man alive." He spoke with a country accent.

Blushing, his mother's white cheeks turned red like a candy apple. "Oh yeah? In case you haven't noticed, you've made me the happiest woman alive." She held her hand up to his face. "Oh Tom, we's married now," she said in a squeaky, soft voice.

_Married!_ Norman's mind screamed. He had no idea that his dumb mother was getting married. Again! Tears flooded Norman's eyes as a sense of betrayal shook him to the core.

Tom chortled. "Hot diggity damn, woman! We did it!"

Mindy giggled. "We eloped. Can you believe it, Tom? People gon' think we're two fools for getting married so soon."

Tom laughed. "We are two fools. Two fools in love." He kissed Mindy's ruby red lips. "Now let's stop all this here talking and let me get in this here pussy of yours, gal."

Mindy's eyes lightened with desire. She circled the tip of her nose with Tom's. "Thomason Chadwick Jonesboro the third...I love when you talk dirty to me," she said, blowing on his lips.

"Considering I'm one dirty ass bastard, that's a good thing." He laughed. His hands floundered wildly over his belt buckle as he loosened it, setting his manhood free.

Mindy gazed down at Tom's penis. "Is all of that mines?"

Tom chortled. "You damn right it is," he answered huskily, shaking it at her.

Mindy hiked her dress up to her hips and propped her foot up on the dresser. Meshing her cheek to Tom's jaw, she turned her head sideways and spotted her son standing in the doorway. A look of surprise on her face, Mindy's eyes widened.

His hand crumbling the gold certificate, a tear slid down Norman's face. "Why did you marry him, Mama?"

Tom's hands paused on Mindy's back as his head jerked. "Mama? Who's he?" he questioned, stuffing his manhood back in his drawers.

Guilt was written all over Mindy's face as she pulled her dress down. "Ummm. Well. You see--"

"Spit it out, Mindy!" Tom spat, anger forming in his dark eyes.

"Well, that boy... well, he's my son."

Tom glared into Mindy's eyes. "Your son?! You mean to tell me you got a kid?!"

"I was going to tell you about him." Mindy gently touched Tom's arms.

"When?"

"Tomorrow."

"Tomorrow? You should've told me that you had a young'un before I married you. This was a trick! You just married me for my money! And I was too stupid to see it!" Tom's voice carried such a strong force.

Mindy shook her head, caressing Tom's arms up and down with her fingers. "Don't say that, Tom, because it's not true."

He flung her hands off him. "It is true! Everyone tried to warn me about you, but I couldn't see it. They said you were nothing but a gold digging whore. And my dumb ass used to get mad at folks for saying it. But now I see it's true. You have a freaking kid and never told me."

"I didn't tell you because he's going to go stay with my mama." Her voice was shaky.

Norman's heart dunked. "You're sending me to live with Grandma for good?"

Tom's bottom lip folded. "Let me make this clear, woman. I'm not raising nobody's kid. It's either me or him. One of us has to go. Tonight."

Mindy gasped. "Tonight?"

Tom nodded. "Yeah, you heard me. Tonight."

Mindy's eyes oogled back and forth between Tom and her son. "I'll be back in a little while. Please don't go nowhere. Be here when I get back."

Mindy snatched her clutch off the dresser, hustled over to the door and grabbed Norman's wrist. Leading him down the hallway, she walked as fast as she could, and he struggled to keep up with her.

"Mama, I have something to show you," Norman said, clenching the certificate in his hand.

"Shut up! Why do you always ruin everything good for me? You should've stayed in your room."

"Ouch! You're hurting my wrist, Mama."

Mindy gave Norman a hostile glare. "If you don't shut up, I'm gon' be hurting that little ass of yours. Spank it real good." When they reached the doorway, Mindy paused. She slapped her forehead. "Lordy Jesus. What am I thinking? I forgot to pack your things. Go get your overnight bag, and hurry up."

"I hate you!" he screamed, wishing he didn't have her for a mother.

Mindy slapped Norman's face so hard, he stumbled backwards. Pain stung his cheek, and he could feel it swelling. Cupping his cheek, tears streamed down his face.

"Don't you ever talk to me like that again! I mean it!" Mindy's curt voice lashed at him.

Out of nowhere, Tom came rushing up to him. A scowl on his face, Tom fisted Norman's shirt with one hand while pointing a finger in his face with his other hand. "You watch your mouth, boy. Do hear me? Nobody talks to my wife like that. It's a good thing she's getting rid of you 'cause I have a real low tolerance for disrespectful kids." Letting loose his shirt, Tom shoved him into the wall.

"I said go pack!" Mindy hollered, shaking her head. "This here shit done made me need a cigarette."

"Well, none of this would've happened had you been upfront and honest from the get-go. Some kind of way to spend your wedding night."

"I'll make up to you, Tom. I promise."

Dropping his shoulders, Norman slowly walked down the hallway. Betrayal stabbed at his heart. How could his own mother pick a man over him? She probably didn't even know Tom that well. This was not fair. He hated his mama. And Tom, too. He wished they both were dead.

_I'll teach them a lesson,_ Norman thought, walking straight past his bedroom. He entered his mother's bedroom, went straight to her nightstand, and opened the top drawer. Mindy's silver, dull pistol lay on top of a handkerchief.

His heart broken, Norman picked up the gun. As he walked down the hallway, his temper rose. His mama had fucked up his whole world, and now he was about to fuck up hers. Halfway down the hallway, he heard Mindy and Tom talking. Wiping the snot from his nose, he paused and hid behind the wall.

Tom sighed harshly. "Damn it, Mindy. You should've told me about the kid. This news really changes things between us. Gon' take me a long time to trust you again."

"I'll say it again. I'm so sorry, Tom. I didn't tell you about my son because I didn't want your feelings for me to change. Besides, I saw no need to tell you."

"Why not?"

"Because I'd already made up in mind that I was going to send him to live with my mama. It's not like I'd planned on raising him or nothing." Mindy sounded adamant about not wanting to raise him.

"Though I don't know your kid, I do think it's in his best interest to leave. I was never any good at raising my own kids. So, I definitely wouldn't be any good raising one that's not mine," Tom said in a matter of fact voice.

"I'm not good at raising kids either. That's why I only had one."

"Don't you love your boy?" Tom asked.

Remaining out of their sight, Norman braced himself for his mother's answer. Gun by his side, his chest tightened.

Mindy sucked her teeth. "Well, I sort of love him, but I just can't handle him. According to Norman's psychiatrist, he's a little cray-cray in the head."

"Cray-cray?! What do you mean he's cray-cray?" Tom asked.

"They keep telling me he's bipolar."

"Like fucking retarded?!" Tom's voice pitched.

"Yeah. Something like that--"

A war of raging emotions, Norman came from behind the wall, aiming the gun at Tom's chest.

Fear stretched Tom's eyes wide. "Whoa, boy!" He held his hands up to his chest level. "Put the gun down."

Terror flitted across Mindy's face. "Put the gun down, Norman. Don't do nothing crazy."

The gun was shaking in Norman's tight grip. "Why should I put down the gun when my own mother doesn't love me?!"

Mindy touched her heart. "I do love you, Norman. I just can't afford you."

"Liar! You've never loved me! Not ever! All you care about are your husbands!"

Tom looked at Mindy. "Husbands?! How many times have you been--"

Norman squeezed the trigger. _Pow!_ A bullet flew straight into Tom's chest.

Gripping his heart, Tom stumbled backwards into the wall and dropped to the floor. "Married," he finished his sentence, closing his eyes.

Placing her hands over her ears, Mindy screamed. "Noooo! You killed him! You killed my husband!"

The hot weapon shook frantically in Norman's hands as he walked up to Mindy. Putting the barrel of the pistol to her chest, he glowered into his mother's terrified eyes.

Tears falling from her eyes, Mindy swallowed. "Don't kill me, Norman. I'm your mother. Please don't--"

Shaking like a leaf, Norman clenched his jaws and fired.

Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston Southern University

A PECAN popped from the large tree that was positioned directly in front of the College of Arts & Social Sciences building. A cool autumn breeze swirled the morning air. Some students walked about the small Charleston campus while others rode their bikes or jogged.

Amber Forrester walked briskly along the sidewalk dressed in a pair of jean shorts and hoodie. Making her way towards her advisor's office, Amber was curious as to how she could change her major. More than anything, she wanted to be a doctor, but her controlling father was insisting that she major in Political Science so she could someday become a lawyer.

Why did her daddy have to be so controlling? It was always his way or the highway. For the life of her, Amber couldn't see how her mother put up with her father. Thank God she was out of his house.

Cradling two gigantic textbooks to her chest, Amber jogged up the steps, flung open the door, and crashed hard into someone. It felt like she'd hit a brick wall. Her textbooks went tumbling to the ground.

"Excuse me," Amber said, not bothering to look up, hastily picking up her textbook. "I'm such a clumsy--"

"Mess," he said, finishing her sentence. When he knelt down in front of her, their gazes locked and Amber just about passed out from looking at him.

Amber couldn't believe that Ricky Casselli--the finest football player at Charleston Southern University--had bumped into her. Well, actually she'd bumped into him. Or maybe they'd bumped into each other. Either way, she was a nervous wreck from his dominating presence.

Ricky picked up Amber's textbook, and they both stood. Her heart fluttered wildly as she gazed up at him. Athletically built, Ricky's chest muscles bulged beneath the football jersey he was wearing. A creamy, white complexion and jet black hair, Ricky's royal blue eyes seemed to be piercing right through her soul. Amber bet those blue eyes of his could melt the panties off any girl. Well, at least they could melt them off hers.

"I'm so sorry for bumping into you," Amber apologized, looking up at him.

"You should be," Ricky stated.

Amber felt her brows lift as her mouth fell open. "Huh?"

Ricky's gorgeous white tanned face smiled. "I'm just teasing you." He laughed. "I'm Ricardo, but you can call me Ricky."

_I know who you are_ , entered her mind. "I'm Amber."

"Did you say Amber?" he asked in a deep voice that nearly made her faint.

She nodded. "Yes, Amber."

"Your name is the same color of your eyes--Amber. Pretty name for a very pretty girl."

She blushed. "Thanks."

"So, um, Amber." Ricky reached into his back jean pocket for his cell phone. "Can I get your number?" he asked, apparently assuming she'd say yes.

"Sure." As she quickly rambled off her digits, Ricky thumbed it into his cell phone.

"Got it." He looked her body up and down. "I'm going to call you later."

_By all means, please do_ , she thought, smiling. "Okay," she said, not brave enough to say what was really on her mind.

Amber turned to walk away. Suddenly, a strong hand gripped her elbow, seizing her. She glanced back over her shoulder to find Ricky staring in her face. Her heart squeezed. "I forgot to give you your book." He put the textbook in her hand.

"Thanks."

Amber was shocked that _Ricky Casselli_ had asked for her phone number. With her fat ass self. The only reason a guy like Ricky would want a big girl like her was for sex. Or maybe he wanted it so she could do his homework for him. People did say she was pretty smart. Whatever the reason was, Amber didn't care. She was just glad that his fine behind had some interest.

Finally, Amber entered her advisor's office so she could find out how to change her major from political science to medicine. After she was finished, she hastened across campus to the cafeteria and ordered a big breakfast from Chick-Fil-A.

While sitting at the table enjoying her chicken, egg, and cheese biscuit, she glanced out the window. Suddenly, Amber's best friend slid in the booth and sat across from her.

Darla smiled. "Hey, Betsie," she said, peeling foil from her blueberry yogurt. Because Darla was a prissy white girl and their personalities were totally opposite, many people found it strange that the two of them had become best friends. But none of that mattered to Amber. The only thing that mattered to her was a person's loyalty--and Darla made straight As in that category.

Amber smiled. "Hey, good morning."

Darla scooped yogurt onto her spoon, then held it up to her mouth. "What are you doing here? I thought you had a ten o' clock class?"

As if the chicken sandwich hadn't been enough, Amber drew a sausage and egg burrito from the Chick-Fil-A bag. "I do have one. But I skipped it to go see my advisor."

"Are you serious about changing your major?"

"Yeah."

"Knowing how your father is, are you sure that's a good idea?"

"He's going to be angry, but I have to do what's best for me." At the thought of Ricky, Amber smiled. Her insides warmed.

"Why are you smiling so hard?"

Amber drizzled hot sauce on her burrito. "You're never going to believe who asked me for my number."

"Who?" Darla asked.

"Guess."

Darla put the tip of her finger to her chin. "I know who...the ugly guy that was in your Chinese Civilization class."

"Frank! No. Heck no! I wouldn't be smiling if it were him. He's ugly."

"Yeah, but he has a nice body, and he's real smart."

Amber shook her head. "Frank is nowhere near my type." She laced her fingers. "Guess again."

"Travis Hunter?"

Amber shook her head. "No."

Darla shrugged. "Well, that's all I can think of. Who?"

Amber felt giddy inside. "Ricky Casselli."

Darla's mouth popped wide open. "You're lying," she said, leaning into the table.

"No, I'm not. I'm so telling the truth."

"Are you serious?!" Darla's voice pitched. "How in the heck did that happen?" Amber quickly filled Darla in, not leaving out a single detail. Darla continued. "Every girl on campus likes Ricky. From what I hear, he's going to the pros. He's going to be making so much money."

Amber waved her hand in a nonchalant gesture. "I couldn't care less about Ricky going to the NFL."

"If I had all the money that you have, I wouldn't care either."

"I don't have any money."

"But your parents do. They're filthy rich. So that makes you rich. Most boys can't handle a wealthy girl like you."

"But I bet Ricky Casselli can. He seems like a manly guy." Snapping her fingers and smiling, Amber sang, "He asked me for my number. He asked me for my number."

Darla twisted the cap off the water bottle. "Damn, you're so lucky."

Amber's mind clouded with insecurity. "I doubt he's going to call me though."

"Why do you say that?"

"Because look at me. I'm fat. Boys like Ricky don't like big girls like me."

Darla cupped Amber's hand. "You're not fat, Amber."

"You're so nice, Darla." She tilted her head. "I'm fat, and I know it. Okay? Ever since middle school, I've always been a big girl."

"You're not fat, Amber. You're voluptuous."

Amber laughed. "Voluptuous, my behind." She picked up the burrito and held it to her mouth. "If I ate yogurt for breakfast and salads for lunch and dinner like you, maybe my big butt would lose some weight." She bit the hot saucy burrito.

"Well, apparently Ricky doesn't have a problem with your weight."

Amber shrugged. "I don't know about that," she said, chewing her food. "It just seems strange to me that as physically fit as he is, he'd be attracted to me. Maybe I can use Ricky as a motivator to exercise because Lord knows I don't have any motivation."

"Maybe he likes big girls because his mama is fat," Darla said in her squeaky voice.

Amber giggled. "What?" Right when Darla got ready to respond, she interjected, "Never mind. I just hope he calls."

"Oh, he will."

Professor Laura Bachtell stood at the front of the packed auditorium, teaching her Theories of Crime class. Always dressed professional, today Professor Bachtell wore a red suit with high black heels. Holding a remote in her hand, she shined the red light on the wide overhead screen.

In a proper tone, the professor recited, "Just to reiterate...criminology is the scientific study of the nature, extent, management, causes, control, consequences, and prevention of criminal behavior, both on the individual and social levels. When doing your research paper on the Minds of Criminals, I expect to see it correlate with this definition. Are they any questions about your project or today's lesson?" she asked, her eyes roaming around the classroom.

Sitting on the first row, Ricky raised his hand.

"Yes, Ricky," Professor Bachtell said, knowing him by his first name. With over two hundred students in the class, Ricky found that quite impressive.

"Do you think serial killers have feelings?" Ricky questioned, thinking that most killers lack emotion.

"That's an interesting question. Research shows most criminals don't think about crime in the traditional sense, and they are driven by compulsions that they can barely control or can't control at all. Killers are often anti-social and emotionally immature people who live in a world, _their world_ , where their actions have no consequences, and that doing what they want to do is their primary goal." She glanced around the room. "Are they any more questions?" Briefly, she paused. "Well, if there aren't any more questions, class is dismissed." She swallowed. "Ricky, if you have time, please meet me in my office."

"Right now?"

"Yes."

"Okay."

Professor Bachtell exited the auditorium through the side door.

Ricky slid out of his seat, picking up his heavy textbook. As he headed for the door, thoughts of Amber entered his mind, bringing a smile to his face. Ever since he'd seen her this morning, he hadn't been able to get her pretty self off his mind. From a looks point of view, she was everything he wanted in a girl.

Amber was a medium-brown complexion with brown-cinnamon, striking eyes and highlighted shoulder length hair. Extremely curvy, she had a big, juicy booty with voluptuous hips and thighs. Just the way he liked his women.

Ricky's shaft semi-hardened from thinking about all the raunchy things he was going to do to Amber. Slap it. Flip it. And rub it down--he was going to fuck her like crazy. Mmmph. Mmmph. He couldn't wait to get into Amber's panties.

Twelve minutes after class, Ricky arrived at Professor's Bachtell's office. Wondering why she wanted to see him, he knocked on her office door.

"Come in," Professor Bachtell said. Grasping the door knob, Ricky entered. Professor Bachtell was sitting behind her desk. "Closed the door behind you," she ordered.

Ricky glanced around the tidy office. Beautiful paintings as well as Professor Bachtell's degrees clung to the walls. And thick books stacked the bookshelves.

Wondering why she wanted to see him, Ricky shut the door and then walked up to her desk. He sure hoped this wasn't about the test he'd just taken. Hopefully, he'd passed because his football coach didn't play when it came to grades.

Ricky swallowed. "I flunked my mid-exam, didn't I?"

Professor Bachtell lifted a test from the stack of papers on her desk and glared at it. "What happened, Ricky?" she asked, extending his test towards him. She'd circled a big, fat red F on his exam.

Ricky huffed in frustration. "I don't know what happened. I studied for two whole weeks."

"Receiving a F has brought your grade down, and you're probably going to have to retake the class."

Frustration assailed him. "I can't afford to take the class over. That's going to push me behind, and I won't graduate in time. NFL recruits are checking me out, and I got to be out of here by springtime."

Shaking her head, she sighed. "I don't know what to tell you, Ricky. Perhaps you should've studied a little harder."

"Is there anything I can do to bring my grade up?"

Professor Bachtell's eyes brightened. Putting her fingertip to her bottom lip, she nodded. "Yeah. There's something you can do, and I think you'll be interested."

Suddenly, Ricky felt hopeful. "What? I'll do anything."

Professor Bachtell's right eyebrow arched. "Anything?"

"Yeah, anything. Just tell me what to do, and I'll do it. I can't afford to flunk this class." How did he fail his mid-exam? He'd studied for hours. For weeks. He'd thought for certain that he'd passed.

Professor Bachtell sashayed over to the door. A clicking sound ticked in Ricky's ears when she locked it. As she strutted back over to him, a glow came into her eyes.

Ricky shrugged. "So what can I do to pass this class?"

Standing directly in front of him, Professor Bachtell's lips curled into a sensual smile. "It's something I think both of us wants," she said in a low, seductive voice.

"Both of us?"

"Don't play dumb."

"Huh?" Ricky was too confused.

Professor Bachtell twined her arms around his neck. "I've seen the way you look at me. You want to fuck me. Don't you, pretty Ricky?" She reached down and gripped his manhood.

Ricky flinched upon the contact. _Damn, this woman is crazy!_ "I've never said that," he said, removing her hand from his balls.

"Not with your mouth, you didn't. But with your eyes, you did. Yep, your eyes said it all." Breathing heavily on his mouth, she kissed his lips. "You want me, admit it."

Ricky knew for a fact that he'd never misled her. She was crazy and horny as all get out. "Professor Bachtell, I--"

"Fuck me, and you'll pass the class." Her soft tone was sexy.

Disapproving of her ultimatum, he frowned. "And if I don't?"

"We both know the answer to that," she replied, slipping her tongue in his mouth.

As Ricky tongued kissed his teacher, he fought hard to get an erection, to no avail; it just wasn't going to happen. Mrs. Bachtell didn't turn him on. Not in anyway whatsoever.

"What about some extra credit?" he asked, resenting kissing her.

"Everybody doesn't get to fuck their teacher, so this is extra credit," she said, caressing his rod.

_Get hard. Get hard,_ he told himself _._ "I can't get an erection."

"That's because you need to relax. Concentrate." Squeezing him with one hand, she lifted up her skirt with the other and threw her long leg on the desk.

He'd had girls throw themselves at him before, but this was absolutely ridiculous. Ricky shut his eyes and tried his hardest to relax. Fuck, he'd much rather be kissing Amber.

With his eyes closed, he imagined himself kissing Amber. A vivid picture of her appeared inside his mind. She was so pretty, and curvy, and luscious. Finally, his tool hardened.

"That's better," Professor Bachtell cooed. She zipped down his jeans, setting him free. Breaking their kiss, she peered at his erection.

She giggled. "Wow! You're bigger than I imagined." She gripped him, motioning him up and down. Licking her lips, she groaned.

When Ricky groaned in frustration, she mistook it for arousal. He shouldn't have to fuck her just for a good grade. For all he knew, she'd given him that F on purpose. Just so she could sleep with him.

_Forget this shit!_ He'd rather fail the class than sleep with her. It was Amber he wanted, not her--his whorish professor.

"Stop," he ordered.

"It's too late for that now." Smiling wickedly, she slid her panties down her legs and then rubbed them in his face.

A strong fish odor attacked his nose, and he just about threw up. His penis quickly turned soft. "I said no!" he quipped. "I don't want you!"

He stuffed his member back into his drawers, zipped up his jeans, and flung open the door.

His best friend Chase was standing at the door, startling him. Ricky jumped. "I didn't do anything."

Grinning, Chase patted Ricky's shoulder. "I never said you did."

"Don't go in there. She's dangerous," Ricky stated and then took off running, leaving Chase behind.
Other Books

**The Brides of Hilton Head Series**

MARRYING THE MARINE

MARRYING THE MILLIONAIRE

MARRYING MR. RIGHT

MARRYING MR. WRONG

MARRYING THE SECOND TIME AROUND

**Stand Alones:**

SINFUL SEDUCTION

THE PROPOSAL

WANTED

BEDDING THE BOSS

LOVING HER FOREVER

THE BALLER'S UNEXPECTED BABY
From the Desk of Sabrina Sims McAfee

A Writer at Heart

Visit me at my website:

www.sabrinasimsmcafee.com

Dear Readers,

Thank you so much for your loyal support! I greatly appreciate you taking the time to read **Marrying the Billionaire** and hope you enjoyed reading the book just as much as I enjoyed writing it. Reviews, comments, and likes are greatly appreciated. Favorable reviews greatly help authors, so thank you.

Fondly,

Sabrina

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**Sabrina Sims McAfee** is your writer of women's fiction, romantic suspense, and contemporary romance. She loves writing about strong men, sexy, strong women, and the adventurous journeys they travel. In her leisure time, she likes spending time with her family, reading, and traveling.

She loves hearing from her readers, so please feel free to email her at Sabrina@sabrinasimsmcafee.com or visit her online at www.sabrinasimsmcafee.com

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