Page 47 of Sinful Negotiations
“We planted someone as soon as you were shot, but with Chandler James’ arrest, and Marco’s disappearance, there haven’t been any issues. Your brother can miraculously reappear once Marco is arrested.” Lucas rubbed his forehead with one hand. “Speaking of Aidan, he’s quite the pain in the ass.”
“So, I’m going by my real name now?”
“Yes, Alex, for the next few hours anyway. You will receive your new identity when you leave here. Memorize it and destroy it. You know the drill. A team is on standby to arrest the real Father Denoro.”
“Where’s the locator?”
Lucas withdrew it from his pocket. “I have it, and it will remain with me in case they spook and move her.”
“Has someone been planted?”
“Yes. Lexxa is deep undercover.”
His gaze drifted to the window. “I assumed it was Lexxa since she knows the language. I still can’t understand why Tessa though?”
Lucas paced back and forth at the end of his bed. “I’ve been digging into Tessa’s past. Her parents were killed in an automobile wreck which we suspect Chandler James arranged.Her father obtained a master’s in Finance, so this was a smart individual. Her mother had a degree in nursing. Maybe an unclaimed life insurance policy or something worth more? Marco wouldn’t marry unless it benefitted him.”
“Keep digging, Lucas. I do know Tessa cared for her grandparents, and she did allude to her uncle’s unsavory connections but didn’t elaborate. There’s more to the story. And you’re right about Marco. He could have his pick of beautiful women, so why Tessa? Sure, she’s absolutely stunning, but he wouldn’t take her without some other motivation. Money isn’t the reason to a man with plenty. He hasn’t been known to mess with authorities. The attention puts too much heat on his back.”
Lucas withdrew his cellphone. “I want to know everything about Tessa James’ grandparents ASAP.”
Alex glanced at his sister. “Let’s do it.”
Chapter 40
Outings on the beach had become normal, and this day was no different. Tessa stretched in the bed and rolled onto her side facing the patio doors. Sunshine streamed over the lush landscape and birds chirped.
In these precious minutes alone, out from under Marco’s watchful gaze, her thoughts strayed to Aidan, and the many things left unsaid. Did he survive? There was so much blood. She toyed with the shamrock pendant lost in memories.
Monotonous and tedious, the days blended until she had no clue how much time had passed. No purpose was left in her life besides being Marco’s entertainment at dinner or whatever activity he planned.
Behind her smiles, she hated him and this prison he’d placed her in. Her life had been deconstructed until it suited his desires. She’d deliberately been kept from knowledge of the outside world because that’s what he wanted. Even her clothes were chosen by him, although he did concede and provide a few pairs of jeans and slacks.
If she said there wasn’t an underlying current of attraction, she’d be lying to herself. Marco was dangerous and sexy as hell, and those qualities were pure temptation. His kisses were seductive and the way he lightly touched her body a torturous experience.
She’d been alone, uncertain, and without affection for so long, she was drawn to him for the human connection even knowing it was wrong. Guilt weighed on her shoulders. She’d loved Aidan, gave him everything, but it turned out most everything was a lie as well. In the end it hadn’t mattered. She was still a pawn on another man’s chessboard, and she hated it, but couldn’t do anything about it.
When the bedroom door opened, she didn’t bother to turn over. Maids came and went most of the day. Her lipstwitched because she suspected they were to watch her while he supposedly worked. What kept a criminal busy all day anyway?
“Good morning.”
Tessa didn’t move, tired of existing in this pampered world.
“It’s a beautiful day.”
“That voice,” Tessa whispered, but closed her eyes at the delusion.
“Did you say something? Would you like breakfast?”
“Yes please.”
“Mr. Dentzi will be in shortly.”
Tessa turned to watch the maid scurrying about her room. There was something familiar in the way she moved, and her voice. “Lexxa,” she whispered.
The woman continued with her tasks, but finally faced her allowing a better look. Tessa tilted her head, studying her, trying to find evidence of what she thought or hoped she heard. Lexxa had long, brown hair. This woman’s hair was short and curly, black, and rested on her shoulders. She sported thick glasses, but something in her eyes was familiar…the angles of her face, the set of her shoulders, even the accent. “Do I know you?”
“No. I am new to this wonderful place.SenorDentzi hired me as your personal assistant, and I am fluent in English. My name is Maria. What may I do for you?”