She studied him, liking his dark wavy hair and the aristocratic lines to his jaw. His soulful eyes could be hard and demanding yet turn so charming and compelling that her heart pounded with a rapid beat.
Hed said he was an accountant. He certainly didnt come across like any number cruncher shed ever met. Superhero, Holly had said. Determination to uncover his secrets slid into place. What is it exactly you do for the European Union again?
A slow smile tipped the corners of his mouth upward. Im gathering information to bring back to Europe on the feasibility of opening a branch of the E.U. Bank in Colorado Springs.
What kind of information? Shed heard her father and Max talking about how theyd yet to see any results from Alessandros work.
Information that will further transatlantic economic integration and enhance the flow of investments as well as trade between the E.U. and the U.S.
That sounds like a party line to me, Colleen stated as her reporters instincts kicked into gear. Does such information include art?
Scusi?
Ive heard from sources that youve taken an interest in the museum. And its new curator, she commented, thinking of the brunette hed been talking to when she walked in.
She hadnt missed the way theyd stood close together, as if they were involved romantically. Perhaps that was why hed been hanging around. Why did a bubble of disappointment lodge itself in her chest?
He arched a brow. Really? You are checking up on me, bella? Im flattered.
A heated flush flamed in her cheeks. People talk. Especially about a mysterious newcomer.
Is that what I am to you, bella? Mysterious? His dark eyes probed her as if he wanted to see deep inside her where she held her own private thoughts.
She rubbed at the sudden goose bumps prickling her arms. I think youre a man with much to hide.
For you, cara mia , I would gladly tell all my secrets.
Yeah, right.
Not for one second did she believe him, but his smooth-as-silk tone and roguish smile still made little butterflies take flight in her stomach.
She lifted her chin. Ive heard that Italian men are dreadful flirts. You are very accomplished, indeed.
He chuckled, a deep sound that penetrated all the way to her heart. What a delight you are, Colleen.
Unaccountably pleased by his words, she sought to bring some reality to the situation. I doubt my brothers would agree with you, she replied as she caught sight of her two brothers standing side by side, glaring at them.
She smiled. They both shook their heads, clearly indicating they didnt approve of the person she was talking to.
Alessandro followed her gaze with his own. Ah, the protective Montgomery brothers.
What can I say? Do you have family besides your aunt Lidia? she asked, needing to turn the conversation back to him.
There was a story here. She wanted to unravel the mystery of this intriguing man so hed no longer hold any appeal for her. Besides, shed promised Holly.
What is family? Only those whose blood you share? Or those who stand by you in time of need?
She wasnt sure how to respond to that, but she saw something flicker in his eyes, something dark and painful, and she fought the urge to reach out to him. She had no experience in offering comfort to anyone, let alone to a man who was not family.
Family can be both of those things. Family comes through connection. Whether through blood or friendship. Or through the bond of faith.
His expression softened. Ah, sì . Faith. You believe deeply in God, no?
Yes. Very deeply.
Because you were raised to believe.
I was raised to believe, but thats not why I believe.
Tell me, then, why do you believe?
Because without faith in God there is no hope.
So is that what keeps you going, even when you investigate the travesties of the world? When you report about an abused wife whose life has become a nightmare at the hands of the one man she should trust? When you report on the drugs and the crimes perpetuated by evil men? Is it hoped that God will deliver justice? Where is the justice for the victims?
Surprised by his passionate words, Colleen laid a hand on his arm. God is faithful all the time, she said simply. I dont understand God, cant fathom why the bad things in life are allowed to happen. All I can do is put my faith in the only One who does know.
Alessandro covered her hand with his. The warmth of his palm against the back of her hand made her toes curl inside her pointed black sandals. I admire your steadfastness, he said.
His admiration was pleasing, not to mention the tender expression in his dark eyes. If she werent careful, she could get used to having him around.
A commotion near the entrance interrupted the moment and common sense rushed in. Colleen extracted her hand. Having him around? What was she thinking? Obviously, she wasnt.
She didnt have time for such things. She needed to stay focused on her job.
Raised voices drew her attention. She turned to see Fire Chief Neil OBrien push past the burly doorman.
Ive a right to be here, just as everyone else does, Neil said, his words slightly slurred.
Not in this condition, you dont, the doorman replied and made a grab for Neils arm. Neil dodged and continued forward, his gaze scanning the crowd, obviously looking for someone.
He looked even more haggard and worn than he had the last time Colleen had seen him, at the fire station when shed confronted him about his gambling debts. His hair was mussed and his brown eyes bloodshot. A generous amount of weight had settled around his middle.
Colleen guessed his gambling was getting to him. She felt bad for his pregnant wife, Mary, and thankful that she wasnt here to witness the spectacle her husband was making of himself.
Neil drew up short when he met Colleens gaze. He pointed a shaky finger at her. You.
Not one ever to run from a challenge, she stepped forward. Chief OBrien.
Because of you, people are saying I had something to do with the hospital fire. I told you I didnt. But you couldnt leave it alone.
I dont for a second believe Lucia was negligent that day. My instincts tell me youre hiding something and Im going to prove it. And if what I wrote in my article cast suspicion elsewhere, then so be it.
Colleen was aware that every person in the museum was watching, and she was even more conscious of the fact that Alessandro had come to stand behind her as if he were guarding her, protecting her.
The thought should have annoyed her. She always hated it when her brothers took that he-man stance. But having Alessandro standing watch over her made her feel secure inside.
It didnt cast suspicion elsewhere. It cast it on me and I have enough to deal with without your vigilante journalism destroying my life. He swayed, but jerked away from Sams steadying hand.
It looks to me as if youre destroying your life quite nicely all by yourself, Colleen retorted, feeling sympathetic toward his wife and unborn child. You need some help, Chief.
I dont need anything from you people. He turned on his heel and stormed toward the entrance.
At the archway he stopped and yelled, Youll get yours, missy. One of these days, youll get yours. Ill see to it. Then he banged out the door.
At the archway he stopped and yelled, Youll get yours, missy. One of these days, youll get yours. Ill see to it. Then he banged out the door.
His threat rang hollow, just like other threats shed received before from those whom shed upset with her candid and factual stories.
Concerned that Neil would end up doing something stupid like driving while intoxicated, Colleen took a step forward to follow him, but Alessandros hand cupping her elbow stopped her.
No, bella . You must let him deal with his mistakes on his own.
But he shouldnt be allowed to wander the streets in his condition. She stared up into Alessandros handsome face.
You have such a generous heart. He released her elbow and stepped away. Your family, he said before melting into the crowd.
Colleen took a steadying breath as her family gathered around her, making sure she was all right. After assuring everyone she was okay and that they should resume their evening, she looked around for Alessandro.
She caught a glimpse of him as he disappeared down the corridor that led to the curators office. And the curator was nowhere in sight. Just what was the relationship between Alessandro and Dahlia Sainsbury?
But more importantly, what was this funny ache in the middle of Colleens chest? It couldnt be jealousy, could it? Absurd.
Colleen walked over to her editor, Al Crane, who was talking to Dr. Robert Fletcher and his wife, Pamela. Good evening, Doctor Fletcher, Mrs. Fletcher.
How are you feeling, Colleen? asked Dr. Fletcher. He was a tall man and still athletic in build, though his light-brown hair was thinning out. Humor always sparkled in his blue eyes.
Good, thank you.
When Colleen had been injured during the hospital explosion a few months ago, Dr. Fletcher had been her doctor. Do you mind if I borrow Al for a moment?
Colleen pulled Al aside. Theres a story in Alessandro Donato.
What kind of story? Al asked around the unlit cigar hanging perpetually from between his lips.
At five feet eight inches, Al was paunchy and crabby and tough. Colleen liked him because he didnt give an inch and always demanded the best.
She shook her head. Not sure yet. But theres something there.
Al narrowed his brown eyes. Seems to me you two were getting pretty chummy before ol Neil came blasting in.
I was questioning him. Trying to get some background information. He was not forthcoming, Colleen replied, thinking of his words about God and justice. Not the information shed been after, but interesting just the same. What had hardened his heart toward God?
She wouldnt admit to her editor the emotional roller-coaster ride shed just been on, courtesy of Alessandro Donato. Alessandro had evoked curiosity, excitement, longing and an odd sense of rightness in her when they were together. Strange how someone she barely knew could do that to her.
It seems to me Neil might be a better option. Your articles on the recent fires have him hiding. Far as I know, this is the first time hes emerged since the bombing at the hospital. I dont like the way he threatened you.
Colleen scoffed. Empty words. Im not putting Neil on the back burner, believe me. But I want to see what I can find out about Donato. Theres something hes hiding.
Cranes bushy eyebrows rose. You think he has anything to do with the recent drug activity going on?
She shrugged. Dont know.
She couldnt picture Alessandro participating in drug trafficking. The drug trade seemed too smarmy for such a sophisticated man, but then stranger things had happened. And not all criminals looked the part. Nor did all superheroes.
Crane snagged a crab puff from a passing waitress and popped it into his mouth. He chewed for a moment then said, You get the scoop on Donato and the growing drug business in town and Ill give you a raise.
Excitement jittered through her veins and she grinned.
Ill hold you to that, Crane.
He grunted and moved away to catch up with the young woman carrying the tray of appetizers. She watched him stuff two into his mouth and swipe two more. How he could eat around that disgusting cigar she didnt know.
Her mind focused on the budding story in her head. She could see the headlines in her mind. Mystery Man Revealed. Drug Trade Unraveled.
A flash of pale pink caught her gaze. Dahlia was returning from her offices, carrying a glass of punch. Alessandro wasnt with her. This would be a good opportunity to ask Dahlia about the elusive Signor Donato.
Colleen started forward and realized Dahlia was making a beeline straight to her. They met in the middle of the room.
Miss Sainsbury, this is a lovely event, Colleen said by way of easing into a conversation.
Thank you, dear. Punch? She handed the crimson liquid to Colleen.
Uh, sure. Colleen accepted the cool glass. Youve certainly worked wonders in the short time youve been here. How long has it been now?
Dahlia waved a hand. One loses track of time when putting together a new project.
Where were you before coming here?
Dahlias expression tightened slightly. Europe.
Ah, so is that where you met Alessandro Donato?
How do you like your punch? Dahlia asked, completely ignoring the question.
I havent tried it yet. It looked syrupy sweet.
Please do. I just made a new batch and would like your opinion, Dahlia purred.
You made this? I thought that was what the caterers were for.
Dahlias lips thinned. I keep tight control over everything. Thats what makes me successful. Drink. Please.
Colleen lifted the glass to her lips. The sugary scent wafting up made her nose twitch. She grimaced as she opened her mouth to take a sip.
There you are, a familiar masculine voice said from Colleens right just as a hard body slammed into her shoulder, knocking the glass from her hand and sending it to the floor with a sickening crash.
Dahlia screeched as she jerked back, avoiding the mess. Colleen jumped away, managing to only get a few sticky drops on her shins and the tops of her black shoes.
Glaring at Mr. Tall, Dark and Suave next to her, she said, What are you doing?
Alessandro gave her a charming smile. Mi scusi ! I must have tripped.
Colleen narrowed her eyes. Yeah, right.
He was too graceful and too self-controlled for her to believe that nonsense. Hed done that on purpose. But why?
The sharp edge to Dahlias tone when she instructed the wait staff to clean up the mess clearly conveyed her irritation.
Miss Sainsbury, I may have a potential buyer for one of the paintings. Could we discuss it? Alessandro asked.
One side of Dahlias red lips curled. Her eyes were cold as she gave Colleen a final glance before taking his offered arm. Indeed.
They walked away leaving Colleen to stare after them. So much for questioning Dahlia or Alessandro any further. Anger boiled in her blood.
To be made a spectacle of and then to be so easily abandoned did not sit well. Oh, yes. She was definitely going to uncover that mans secrets, even if it was the last thing she ever did.
THREE
A lessandro thought fast and spoke just as quickly, coming up with a cover story of an unnamed buyer wanting to have one of the exhibitions paintings at an astronomical price. He could see Dahlia was taking in the story at face value. There was no buyer, but hed fork out the money himself if he needed to.