Ecstasy Page 8

CHAPTER FIFTEEN

Todd quietly walked into the room and stood watching Karinna sleep. It was barely dawn and the room was in darkness. He shook her awake. “Karinna, come on…wake up,” he said on a low voice.

She groggily rolled over and mumbled something in her sleep.

He pulled her up and her head lolled on his chest. “Todd?” She whispered, still half asleep. “Todd, what’s wrong?” She immediately woke up and her heart began to thump. “What is it? Is it Christian?” She gazed at him; he was fully dressed and alert.

“We need to get out of here. Right now.” He pulled the covers back and drew her to her feet. “Get dressed and hurry.”

Karinna hurriedly threw a pair of jeans and a thick turtleneck on. Todd glanced out the window. He separated the curtains with the barrel of his P7. Karinna’s anxiety increased tenfold. Todd would not have his weapon drawn if there wasn’t a damn good reason.

“Is there someone out there?” She whispered fearfully. She had almost been able to relax and feel safe. Now the icy fear had formed a lump in her stomach.

“Something’s not right,” he remarked calmly. He turned and faced her. “Let’s go. I want you to keep silent and follow me closely. Do you understand, Karinna?”

She nodded. “Yes,” she whispered. “I’ll do exactly as you say.” She took hold of his hand and together they left the bedroom quietly. They padded down the quiet hallway. Todd cut his eyes back and forth. The P7 was up and ready.

They rounded the corner and were confronted. The person was waiting and the gun was pointed straight at Karinna’s head. Karinna gasped in total disbelief.

“You never fail to surprise me, Todd.” The person said.

Todd eyed the person coolly; he kept the gun up and steady. “I had a feeling, and I guess I was right.” He smiled a toothy shark’s smile. “I always trust my gut. So…when did you decide to flip, huh?”

Darcy smiled. “When Christian offered me a cut, a rather sizable one. It was just too tempting of an offer to resist.” She licked her full lips. “Tell me Todd…when did you first suspect?”

“After you left my little hide out in Carmel. You put the tracking device under my ride. And lo and behold…Christian and his dogs showed up.” He smiled bitterly. “I didn’t wanna believe it, but I not exactly a trusting person, ya know?”

Darcy inclined her head. “I was as surprised as hell when you showed up on my doorstep. I could have killed you both then…easily, but that damn record book Christian has…I knew you’d never be stupid enough to bring it with you. That’s the only reason why you’re both still alive.”

Karinna’s eyes were blazing. “You traitorous snake,” she breathed. “How could you do that to Todd? He’s been nothing but a friend to you.”

Darcy cut her eyes to Karinna. “I’d shut my mouth if I were you,” she remarked. She looked like a stone killer. Her blue eyes were flat and staring. Todd shook his head at Karinna. His eyes held a warning. Karinna fell silent and squeezed his hand.

“I came here because I like to keep my enemies close to me,” Todd said in a cold, hard voice. “And part of me still wanted to believe that you couldn’t betray me.” His voice slipped just the tiniest bit at the end.

Darcy breathed deeply. “The money was too good, Todd. Couldn’t turn it down.”

He shook his head. “So…here we are. I don’t want to kill you, Darcy but I will. Are you gonna let us walk out of here or am I gonna have to settle it?” He glared at her. He tamped down his hurt and betrayal, he’d deal with those feelings later, just like he always did.

In its place were the old familiar ones. The fury and the hatred, and the knowledge that once again women were never to be trusted. They would knife you in the back every single time.

“We’ll have to settle it, Todd,” she said softly.

Todd let go of Karinna’s hand he put the P7 back in his holster. He walked up to Darcy and knelt in front of her. He grabbed her hand and pressed the barrel of the .357 against his forehead.

“Todd!” Karinna cried, alarmed. “Stop it, what are you doing?”

“Keep out of this,” he growled. He looked up at Darcy. “Go ahead, do it. Shoot me,” he challenged. “I’m makin it real easy, Darce…do it!” He shouted.

“Todd, stop it!” Karinna shrieked.

“Come on Darcy, drill one right between my eyes,” Todd yelled over Karinna.

Darcy licked her lips nervously. “Shut up, just shut up!” She screamed. She broke her attention away from Todd for a split second. That was all Todd needed. He snatched the gun away from her and punched her hard in her kneecap.

Darcy grunted in surprise and fell to her knees. Todd rolled to his feet and stood over her. He cocked the trigger and stared at her hard. “Shoulda killed me.” Todd stood for several seconds deliberating. Cursing roughly, he yanked her up and threw her against the wall. She was breathing harshly. He turned the P7, and hit her sharply with the butt-end of the gun. Darcy dropped like a stone and lay unconscious. Todd knelt and felt for her pulse with his two fingers.

“You might have been able to kill me, Darce…but I just couldn’t,” he whispered. He brushed a lock of her platinum hair off her forehead. He rose and took Karinna by her hand. “We don’t have much time. I didn’t hit her that hard and she’ll be waking soon.”

Karinna nodded and together they left the house.

Gabriel stepped out of the shadows and knelt over Darcy. He roughly shook her. “Darcy,” he snapped. He lightly slapped her face. “Get up.” Darcy’s groaned a little and struggled to sit up. She gingerly rubbed the side of her neck. Thank God Todd didn’t hit her that hard, he had every right to kill her. “Leave me alone,” she muttered to Gabriel.

“You stupid bitch,” he snapped. “Why’d you let them get away?”

“I didn’t let them get away. He overpowered me.”

Gabriel laughed harshly. “Bullshit. You have a third degree black belt. You could have stopped him dead in his tracks, but you let you’re loyalty get in the way.”

Darcy glared at him. “I hope he gets as far away as he can,” she snapped in an icy voice.

He grabbed a handful of her hair and yanked her to him. “I don’t think so,” he whispered softly. “Cause Christian has that sweet kid sister of yours. Kelly is such a lovely innocent girl. It’d be a shame for her virginity to be taken…by force.” He smiled nastily. “Christian has a thing for untouched young girls.” He leaned forward and kissed her lips lightly. “So do I,” he said malevolently.

She turned her head away, sickened. They had kidnapped her sister from the St. Mary’s school grounds two days ago. Darcy’s parent’s had been dead for five years and she single-handedly raised her sister. Kelly was sixteen and innocent. She attended the private Catholic school and lived in the dorms there. No one knew she had a sister. Darcy hadn’t even told Todd. Now her worst nightmare had come to life. Christian and Gabriel both were blackmailing her. She had to betray the only friend she had, or her sister would die at the hands of that monster.

Darcy’s stomach churned at the look of utter betrayal on Todd’s face. He hated her now, and she couldn’t blame him one bit. She forced back tears. She had to be strong and think, because she sure as hell wasn’t going to allow Kelly, Todd, or Karinna die. For now Todd was safer believing that she had turned on him.

“Where are they headed?” Gabriel rapped out.

“I have no idea,” she lied.

Gabriel pulled out his cell phone. “Do I need to call Christian and tell him to go ahead and have some fun with the kid? Because I will in a heartbeat unless you start giving me some answers.”

Darcy grit her teeth. “Up north. Near Tahoe, and that’s all I know,” she replied. “But if you think you’re gonna get the drop on Todd you can think again,” she said venomously. “He’s a stone killer who’ll blow you away without even blinking an eye.”

Gabriel threw back his head and laughed. “Now why would he do that? I’m a good guy…remember? A decorated DEA agent and Karinna’s childhood friend. You’re the one who he wants to blow away, not me. He might hate me but he won’t kill me.”

He rose to his feet. “You’re gonna stay put and wait for instructions. I’ve got to track them down since you failed.” He turned to walk away. “Don’t even think of trying to warn him, Darcy. Because if you do then Kelly will die a slow and painful death… I’ll see to it.” He walked down the stairs and slammed the front door shut.

Darcy stood and willed the pounding in her head away. “I will do no such thing, asshole,” she muttered. She made her way downstairs to her office and began making plans.

****************************

Todd and Karinna made it to his home in record time. He rolled the HumVee into the garage and vaulted out. “We have zero time here,” he said. Karinna climbed down from the SUV. “Why did we come here? Won’t this be the first place they look?” She was scared and jumpy.

“Yes,” he replied. “But I need to get a bag together. C’mon follow me.” He punched in a code that turned the alarm off, and entered his home. He walked swiftly through his house and motioned her to follow him. He took the stairs two at a time, with Karinna close behind him.

They entered his bedroom. Todd turned to her. “Do me a favor. Pack me some jeans, shirts and sweaters, okay?” He yanked a suitcase from under the bed and handed it to her. “Whatever you need we’ll have to get later.”

“Okay,” she whispered. She began doing as he asked.

Todd pulled out a large nylon duffel bag and stepped into his walk-in closet. He punched in another code on a keypad mounted on the wall. A secret door opened and Karinna’s jaw hung open.

There was an arsenal in there that any militia would have been proud of. He began pulling out boxes of ammo and dropping them into the bag. He carefully placed a Remington .308 rifle with a high-powered scope inside the duffel. He grabbed a first-aid kit, flairs, and a heavy-duty flashlight, fitting them in next. Concussion grenades, a crossbow with steel arrows, a wicked looking Bowie knife, and military night goggles were placed swiftly, and with a minimum of fuss into the bag as well. He noticed Karinna gaping at him.

He looked squarely at her. He knew it looked bad, she must have thought he was some kind of violent maniac. He raised an eyebrow. “If you have a problem with this… say it now,” he replied.

She stared at him. He looked defensive and vulnerable at the same time. All of this…he was doing it for her, to keep her alive. He could have killed Darcy but he didn’t, he couldn’t. He had a heart and a soul. He was as far away from Christian as the moon.

She shook her head. “No. I don’t have a problem with this.”

Todd relaxed slightly. “Good, because Christian and his friends don’t play nice. They will do any and everything it takes to see us dead, Karinna. I’m prepared to kill if I have to,” he said seriously.Karinna believed him. She cleared her throat. “Have you killed anyone before?”

“Yes,” he said quietly and with no hesitation. “I have. Twice. But they were accidents, both times.” He looked at her for a beat. “Do you believe me? That they were accidents?”

“Yes, Todd. I believe you,” she said.

He nodded his head, satisfied. “Are you finished packing for me? Because we really need to go.”

“Yes.” She picked up the suitcase. Todd zipped the nylon bag, slinging it over his shoulder, and then took the suitcase from Karinna.

“Let’s go,” he said.

They walked into the garage and Todd placed the suitcase and bag in the trunk of champagne colored Jaguar. “I’d love to take the HumVee but we’d stick out like a sore thumb.”

They eased out of the garage and took off down the quiet streets. Karinna turned her head and stared at Todd. He was so incredibly exotic looking. And strong and confident. Just his presence alone made her feel safe.

He was staring out at the road with those unusual eyes of his. His hands were resting casually against the steering wheel. The were beautiful, his long tapered fingers were sensitive and masculine.

He glanced a her. “What?” He said with a ghost of a smile.

“Nothing,” Karinna replied. “Just thinking.”

“Hmm. Dangerous,” he quipped.

“Ha ha,” she joked lightly. She sighed a little. “Where are we headed?”

Todd rotated his neck. The sun was rising and it cast a buttery glow over him. “Up north…Tahoe.”

“Oh.” Karinna was silent for a few minutes. “I’ve never been there before.”

“It’s beautiful,” Todd remarked. “The skiing is unbelievable.” He glanced at her. “Gabriel mentioned you both grew up together. Where is home?” He asked lightly.

“Los Angeles,” she said. “South central. I grew up in a tough neighborhood. It wasn’t as bad then as it is now. We lived in the same apartment complex. Our parent’s were friends and like Gabriel said, we grew up together.” She tipped her head. “What about you? Where are you from?”

Todd said nothing. The silence stretched on for so long that Karinna thought he wasn’t going to answer her. “I’m originally from Chicago. I lived there until I went to collage in Llaneveiw, Pennsylvania. That was my home for several miserable years,” he said bitterly. “I personally don’t care to ever see either place as long as I live.”

“What happened?” Karinna asked. She wanted to know everything she could about him, what shaped him into the person he was today.

He glanced at her. “I had a silver spoon shoved down my throat back in Chicago. Lived in a fancy house, had lots of money, and had a father who used to beat the shit out of me just for the fun of it. He beat my Mother too, until she got sick of it and split. She conveniently forgot to take me along with her. So…I became the sole punching bag for my old man.”

Todd continued. “I was an asshole in collage. I drank, smoked dope and treated women like dirt. I had no respect for them or anyone else for that matter. Life was one big party ya know? I was the star QB and thought I was a god. Did a lot of things that I’m ashamed of. But I paid for my mistakes.”

“What did you do?” Karinna asked.

Todd chewed his lip. “I raped a girl one night at a frat party. Me and two other guys. In my head I thought she was asking for it, she was drunk and challenging every guy at that party. My thinking was completely fucked up back then. Anyway, I orchestrated it and I went to jail for it. It’s the worst thing in my life that I’ve done.” He glanced coolly at her. He gripped the wheel and waited for the revulsion and disgust in her eyes. He never told anyone about his past, especially women. Even though Marty forgave him, he never forgot or forgave himself for it. It was always there in the back of his mind.

Karinna looked at him. She was beginning to recognize his body language. He was tense and waiting for her to blast him. Tell him how sickened she was and how much she despised him. The truth was, she was disturbed by what he told her.

But his past and upbringing contributed greatly. And the fact that his mother abandoned him had a lot to do with it as well. She was no saint herself and was not going to stand in judgment of him. He didn’t have to tell her any of it, but he did.

“I’m not going to lie to you. What you did was terrible, Todd. But I can see with my own eyes how much it still bothers you. If you didn’t have a conscious it wouldn’t. And now that you have a daughter yourself I believe that you fully understand the magnitude of your actions,” she said softly.

Todd closed his eyes for a moment. “If anyone touched a hair on her head I’d kill them,” he breathed. Karinna was right. Now that he had Starr he fully understood how precious women were, and how they deserved to be treated. He couldn’t believe that she wasn’t dumping on him or sickened by him. He stole a quick look at her.

She was gazing at him with those jade green eyes of hers and the look in them was full of compassion and understanding. It freaked him out; she was unlike any woman he’d ever met. He couldn’t handle all the mixed emotions running through his head.

Maybe a part of him wanted to tell her because he was hoping she’d turn away from him. Then he wouldn’t have to deal with these new feelings he was developing for her. He sighed deeply. “Well it was a long time ago and I’ve tried to get past it,” he said abruptly.

Karinna could tell he didn’t want to talk about it any longer and let the subject drop. They drove for a while in silence, but it was comfortable. Karinna’s eyes began to droop; the cars motion was hypnotic and gradually lulled her to sleep.

Todd looked at her and smiled. Her head was facing towards him. Her eyelashes laid against her cheeks like silky fans. He reached over and ran his finger down the side of her face, marveling at the silky smooth skin. He brushed her fiery curls away from her face and let her sleep.

****************************

Karinna woke with a jolt. She sat up and peered at her watch. She’d been asleep for two hours.

“Hello sleepyhead,” Todd teased. “Hey…Didja know that you snore?”

“I do not snore!” She said indignantly. She yawned. “And I wasn’t sleeping…I was resting my eyes,” she muttered lamely.

“Huh…that so?” He remarked.

She looked around. They were in a beautiful neighborhood. Rustic cabins were sitting on acres of untouched land. It was a winter wonderland. Pine trees towered everywhere and she saw a deer poised in the forest.

“My God,” she breathed. “It’s beautiful.”

Todd nodded his head. “Welcome to Lake Tahoe.” They pulled up into a curved driveway that gracefully ended into a circular carport. The cabin was modern and beautiful. There was a snowman in front with a red scarf tied jauntily around its neck.

Karinna was puzzled. “Is this your cabin?” It looked like there were people living in it.

Todd smiled. “Yes. Shorty did a real good job on the snowman, it was only half finished yesterday.”

“Shorty? Who’s Shorty?” Asked Karinna. She was tired and frazzled and didn’t want to deal with any more of Todd’s friends.

“My daughter Starr. You’re going to finally meet her.”

CHAPTER SIXTEEN

Todd looked closely at her. “You were sleeping and I didn’t want to wake you,” he said calmly. She looked scared to death. “You’re not nervous are you?”

“Of course I’m nervous!” She exclaimed. “God, what if she doesn’t like me? How will you explain who I am?” She flipped the visor down and looked at her face and hair. The red-gold curls were in wild disarray as usual. She had not a stitch of makeup on, and felt rumpled and unkempt. Karinna half-heartedly ran her fingers through the thick mane trying feebly to tame it. She sighed dejectedly… it was no use. “Let’s get this over with.” This was not how she imagined meeting his girl. In her minds eye she envisioned herself dressed like Donna Reed with a present for Starr and maybe some homemade cookies, from a bakery of course, because everything she tried to bake she burned to a crisp.

Todd opened the door and climbed out, stretching like a big cat. “Don’t worry,” he said easily. “Starr’s a great kid…she’ll love you.”

Karinna hopped out and nervously smoothed her sweater and jeans down. “I hope you’re right,” she whispered.

They walked to the door and Todd slid the key in the lock. They entered the cabin and Karinna gasped at the beauty of the home. It had cedar walls and the ceiling was high and vaulted. A cobblestone fireplace had a fire cracking behind the grate.

A huge silver and white Alaskan husky was stretched out by the fire; he lifted his head and woofed softly.

“Rocket…come,” Todd commanded. The dog obediently came trotting over and sat at Todd’s feet. “Hey boy,” he murmured softly. He hunched down and ruffled the dog’s ears. Rocket moaned excitedly, his tail thumped on the ground in a rapid staccato.

“Rocket,” Todd said. He reached for Karinna hand. “Friend, Rocket. Guard.” He glanced up at Karinna who was staring at the large dog warily. “Its okay…he won’t harm you at all.”

Rocket sniffed at her knuckles delicately. He snuffled and whined in a friendly way. The dog’s soft, pink tongue licked her hand gently. Karinna laughed. She loved animals. “Hello Rocket.” She stroked his soft fur. “He’s a beautiful animal, Todd.”

Rocket, satisfied with the attention, padded back to his cozy spot in front of the fireplace and promptly closed his eyes.

Karinna glanced around. Indian rugs were covered the hardwood floors and Navajo art was on the walls. The furniture was solid and comfortable looking. A huge plate glass window dominated the entire side of the house. The forest in all its majesty was displayed. Karinna turned to Todd. How can you stand to ever leave here?”

Todd glanced around unaffected. He was so used to it he barely even thought about it anymore. He looked at the wonder in her face and smiled. “It’s hard but I manage,” he said dryly. “Come on…let’s find Shorty.” He took her by the hand and tugged her along.

“Starr!” He called in a loud voice. “Hey Shorty, bring you’re cute little butt in here!”

They heard a rapid tattoo of feet running. Starr rounded a corner and flew into her Father’s arms. “Daddy!” She yelled excitedly. “Oh Daddy, I was waiting and waiting for you!” She held his face between her small hands and covered it in kisses.

Todd laughed loudly and swung her up in his arms. “Hey kid…didn’t I say I was comin back? Huh? You’re old man always keeps his promises.” He tickled her side and was rewarded when Star dissolved into a fit of giggles.

Karinna stood in awe. His face was lit from the inside out. He glowed. His features were suffused with total joy and contentment. He looked like a completely different person. He was beautiful. It brought tears to her eyes. Starr peered over Todd’s shoulder. Her eyes connected with Karinna’s. “Daddy? Who’s she?” Starr scrambled out of Todd’s embrace and walked towards Karinna.

Karinna smiled a little shakily. Those were Todd’s incredible eyes gazing out from her exquisite face; the longest, blackest lashes she’d ever seen framed them. The resemblance of Father and Daughter was astonishing. Only Starr was the feminine version. Her long chestnut blonde hair was pulled back with a black velvet headband. She had on a red turtleneck and black leggings. Tiny diamond studs twinkled in her earlobes. She was utterly enchanting. “Hello Starr,” Karinna said softly. “I am so glad to finally meet you.”

Starr smiled. “Hi,” she said shyly. She looked up at her father puzzled. “Starr, this is Karinna DeMarco. She’s a good friend of mine. She is going to be here for a while.”

Karinna looked at Todd gratefully. “But only if that’s okay with you, honey.” She felt her heart melting already. Her love for Todd had transferred itself to his child. She didn’t want Starr to feel threatened in any way.

“It’s okay right, Shorty?” Todd asked seriously.

Starr stared at Karinna for a long moment. Karinna felt her heart jump in her chest. Todd had looked at her in the same exact way. She could see the keen intelligence in the child’s eyes. When she grew up she would be a force to be reckoned with…just like her Father was.

She turned to Todd. “Yes daddy, it’s okay,” she said sweetly.

Karinna smiled whitely. She felt like she passed some sort of test. Before she could respond, an older woman came bustling in.

“Senor Todd, I thought I heard you come in. I hope you are hungry because I cooked breakfast.” She raised an eyebrow. “You must be Karinna,” she said warmly. “Mr. Lord has told me a lot about you. I am Rosalie Perez; I keep Todd’s house and watch la Nina. Venga, come… you must be famished.”

Todd wrapped his arms around Rosalie’s waist from behind. “Did you make homemade tortillas, I hope? With honey? And Spanish omelets?” He kissed her lightly on her plump cheek.

She chuckled huskily. “You know I did…I spoil you outrageously and you take full advantage!”

He sighed contentedly. “Si. I do,” he grinned unrepentantly. “Come on…let’s eat. I’m starving.” He scooped Starr up and hoisted her on his shoulders.

Karinna laughed softly and followed.

Breakfast was a happy, lighthearted affair. Karinna watched enthralled as a whole other side of Todd was revealed. A soft, gentle, tenderhearted side. He was a perfect, loving parent. He listened to everything Starr had to say. When she spoke she had his undivided attention.

He talked to her freely and teased and joked until Starr was breathless with laughter. He cut her food for her and generally doted on her. He did it unconsciously. He didn’t have to think about it, it just came naturally. If it were possible for her to fall more deeply in love with him; then today… right now, it had happened. She closed her eyes briefly and wondered what it would be like to have Todd’s child. To be a family with this lovely child and one of their own. Tears of happiness spilled over. It would be heaven on earth.

“Daddy, Katie’s gonna go sledding. Is it okay if I go too?”

Todd gazed at his child. “Did Katie’s mom say it was okay if you went along?” He was concerned, he didn’t want Starr out of his sight with Christian, and now Darcy around.

Starr nodded her head. “Yes, they invited me. They also said I could get a hot chocolate.”

Rosalie smiled. “I will go along with her, Todd. Don’t worry, she’ll be fine.”

Todd smiled. “Well in that case yes, you can go. Rosie, please take Rocket too.”

“Yay!” Starr yelled with a delighted whoop. She hopped off her chair and raced to her room.

Rosalie stood up and laughed. “Let me clear this up and then I’ll get Starr in her snowsuit.”

Karinna rose. “Oh please Mrs. Perez, let me clear up the dishes. It was a wonderful breakfast, and it’s the least I can do. That way Starr can go immediately.”

Rosalie looked at the beautiful woman. She liked her, and by the look on Todd’s face she could see that he too, was completely enchanted.

“Please…call me Rosa. And are you sure? You are a guest here and I don’t want you to think you have to.”

Karinna smiled, liking the older woman. “Its no bother at all.”

Rosa shrugged her shoulders and chuckled. “Well in that case, I will get the Chiquita ready. If you’ll excuse me.”

Todd lifted an eyebrow and drained his coffee. “Well now, you and Rosa sure seem to like one another,” he said drolly. “A regular admiration society.”

“I like her,” Karinna said primly. “Is it so shocking that she likes me back?” She asked a trace defensively.

Todd raised his hands in mock surrender. “Don’t get snippy. I was merely making an observation.” He stood and began to stack the dishes and cups. Together they cleaned the kitchen. Starr came in looking like a dream in a red snowsuit, cap and mittens. Todd put a hand to his heart and staggered back. “Who is that lovely little girl? My God, you look like a snow bunny.” Starr peeled with laughter. “Oh Daddy, you are soo silly!” She spun around and showed off her new snowsuit.

Karinna laughed. “Your Daddy’s right, Starr. You look beautiful and warm…ready for some fun in the snow.”

“Do you like to go sledding?” Starr asked curiously.

“Why yes I do,” Karinna said. “I like ice-skating too.”

“You know how to ice-skate?” Starr said excitedly. “Can you show me how sometime?”

“Shorty,” Todd interrupted. “Karinna won’t be here that long. We don’t want to impose.”

Karinna felt her heart sink like a stone.

He didn’t want her getting close to his daughter.

“Maybe next time, sweetheart,” Karinna said softly. “I’ll look forward to it.”

Rosa came in. “Are to ready to go, chica?” She asked.

“Yes Rosa,” Starr said happily.

Todd leaned down and kissed the tip of her nose. “Have fun and listen to Rosa and Katie’s mom, okay honey?”

Starr nodded her head. “I promise, Daddy,” she said promptly.

Todd walked Starr and Rosa outside. Karinna sat down in the kitchen and tried to tamp down the rising hurt and disappointment inside her. She ran her fingers through her hair and tried to get her emotions under control. Todd walked in and poured himself another cup of coffee. He leaned against the sink and watched her through the steam.

Karinna, aware of his scrutiny, rose from her chair and walked out of the room. She had only taken a few steps before Todd spun her around. “All right…spit it out, DeMarco…what’s up?”

Karinna stepped back, and out of his grasp. “Nothings up,” she murmured coolly.

Todd smiled slightly. “Don’t give me that. You’re ticked and I want to know why.”

“I said it was nothing. I’m not ticked, okay?”

Todd pulled her to him. “Whoa, what was nothing? And don’t tell me you’re not ticked Karinna. Jesus! Can’t I ever get a straight answer out of you?”

“All right, if you really want to know then I’ll tell you. I’m not a pariah, Todd. You don’t have to worry about me being a bad influence on Starr.” Todd shook his head. “Is that what this is about? Starr, and you not taking her ice-skating?”

Karinna bit her lip. “Yes, this is what’s its about. What did you think? That I would contaminate her?”

“Ya know? This is just incredible.” He stepped back from her in disgust. “It figures,” he said sourly. “I don’t know why I’m surprised…you always jump to the wrong conclusions.”

“What are you talking about? There’s nothing wrong with my hearing, Todd.”

“Well there’s something wrong with your understanding. Did you think I’d even let you meet Starr if I thought you were some sort of bad influence?” He put his face close to hers. “Think about it, Karinna. Do you wanna be out in the open like that? With my kid? Gaines would take you out in a heartbeat and I want Starr no where near that man.”

Karinna bowed her head. What was the matter with her? Todd was right of course; it was dangerous for them. She didn’t want a thing to happen to Starr. “I’m sorry, Todd. I wasn’t thinking. Of course, I wouldn’t want any harm whatsoever to come to Starr.”

Todd stared at her. “You know, it would be nice if you gave me the benefit of doubt once in a while.”

“I’m sorry, Todd. I guess I just got my feelings hurt and was blinded to the whole picture. I…I don’t know what else to say,” she whispered. She turned away from him and stared out the window. Tears crystallized and made the scenery blurry.

She didn’t know how much longer she could go on like this. Todd had managed to get inside both her heart and her head. She loved him deeply and he had the power to hurt her beyond anything she could have ever imagined. She had never felt as out of control emotionally as she did now. The last thing she wanted was for him to know just how much power he had exercised over her heart. She swallowed hard and turned. “Would you mind showing me to my room? I’d like to clean up and just lie down for a while. I…I’m really wiped out,” her voice wobbled dangerously.

“Sure,” Todd said quietly. He silently led her to a spacious bedroom and opened the door. “Here’s where you’ll be staying. I’m right across the hall.” Karinna nodded her head slightly. She knew there would be no way they’d share a bedroom. Not with his daughter in the same house. She’d gotten too used to sleeping next to him.

“Uh thanks,” she muttered. She stood in the middle of the room. “Well…I guess I’ll just see you in a while.” She twisted her hands together and stared at her feet.

“Yeah, get some rest.” Todd turned and walked out, closing the door softly behind him.

Karinna sighed and let the tension drain out of her. She felt depressed and spiritless. She made her way into the luxurious bathroom. She stripped off her clothes and turned on the shower taps.

She stood limply under the spray and let the hot water beat down on her. She leaned against the tile wall and let the tears fall. She wished she’d never met him, then she wouldn’t be feeling this soul-destroying sorrow right now. Karinna felt a rush of cold air. She opened her eyes. Todd was staring unsmilingly at her. He had on a pair of cotton boxers and nothing else. The silver crucifix around his neck shone metallicaly.

His arms hung loose at his sides and through the steam his expression was unreadable. They stared at each other silently.

Karinna’s heart was pounding violently at the base of her throat. She didn’t utter a word; she wasn’t capable of it.

She crossed her arms in front of her. It was instinctive, vulnerable, and self-protective.

Todd slowly stepped into the large shower. He kept the boxers on. It didn’t matter, the strong spray immediately soaked the underwear and he might as well have been naked. The wet fabric molded itself over his strong hips and thighs like a second skin. It gloved him snugly in the front.

He gaze was steady as he carefully advanced toward her. She looked small and fragile. He didn’t want to frighten her. He stepped behind her and reached for the shampoo. He squeezed a large amount in his hands and rubbed them gently through her scalp.

Karinna clasped her hands together and bowed her head. She concentrated on her breathing rather than the hypnotic feel of his hands upon her.

Todd washed her hair thoroughly, taking his time. He squeezed the soap out of the thick mane and smiled softly. She was so beautiful and pure. He circled the tips of his fingers lightly on her shoulder blades. He closed his eyes and fought a battle of conscious.

He knew how vulnerable she was right now. He wanted more than anything to make love to her. She would offer no resistance. He knew it wouldn’t be right. She needed to be comforted.

He picked up a bar of soap and began to gently rub her back. The bubbles ran in silky ribbons over her brown body. He drew in a shaky breath and replaced the soap. He turned off the taps and silently reached for a warm bath sheet.

He wrapped it around her. She held the towel close to her body. Todd swiftly pulled off his underwear and wrapped a towel around his waist. Karinna was trembling from head to toe. She wanted to make love with him so badly it was an ache. At the same time she was afraid to let him near her. She knew she had no place in his life. They met under terrible circumstances and there was no changing all the events that took place over the past few days. He was totally happy with his life and his beautiful child. She didn’t fit into that equation.

Soon this would be over, and then she’d have no reason to be in his life. If she made love with him now, she’d never survive it. She knew that. But it didn’t stop the feelings that flooded her heart and soul. She’d have to say goodbye to him soon. Karinna bit her lip and willed the tears away.

Todd cursed himself. She looked so lost and alone. He had been a bastard to her from the start. He shamelessly seduced her when he knew instinctively that she was tenderhearted. He tied her up, insulted her, manhandled her, and kicked down the door to her room.

Was it any wonder she was trembling in front of him now? He felt sick to his stomach. This was not what he wanted. He didn’t want to see her cowed and intimidated. What was it about him? He felt like an animal.

He slowly walked in front of her. He took her small, cold hands in his and placed them around his neck. He lifted her up and carried her into the bedroom. He set her down. “Don’t move,” he whispered. “I’ll be right back.”

He returned, and was wearing a pair of black cotton pajama bottoms. He had the top in his hands. He carefully unwound the towel from around her and let it drop to the floor. He swiftly placed the top over her head and worked her arms through the sleeves.

He clenched his jaw and tried to concentrate on the job at hand rather than her lovely body. He failed miserably. He was rock hard and helpless to do a thing about it.

“Sit down and I’ll brush you’re hair,” Todd said quietly.

Karinna sank down on the bed. She was whipped, emotionally and physically. She couldn’t remember when she had slept a full night.

Todd pulled the comb through her hair in long, steady strokes. Marveling as always, at the color and texture of her beautiful hair. He set the comb aside and drew her to her feet.

He turned down her bed and fluffed her pillows for her. “Come here,’ he commanded softly.

Karinna walked to the bed and slid under the covers. Todd walked around to the other side of the bed and climbed in. He half-sat, leaning against the headboard. He pulled her into the circle of his arms and adjusted her comfortably on his chest. “Close you’re eyes and sleep, baby. I’ll be here when you wake up,” he whispered.

Karinna’s eyes fluttered closed just as a hot, salty tear escaped from behind her lid.

Todd rubbed the side of his face against her temple. He traced the length of her spine with his fingertips. He kept up the soothing motion until her breathing was steady and regular.

He knew he was falling in love with her. He wanted her for more than a physical relationship. He liked and respected her, for the person she was. He saw how taken she was with Starr. She would be a good mother; he also knew that with a certainty.

He leaned his head back and closed his eyes. When he handled this whole thing with Gaines, he had every intention of taking their relationship to the next level.

********************************

The house resembled an Italian villa. Inside it was spacious and expensively appointed. Three of Gaines’ men stood guard outside the property and another two were inside the house.

Christian Gaines sat with his legs elegantly crossed. He was seated in a chair, in the bedroom of his newest acquirement.

The young, blonde girl was breathtakingly lovely. Untouched and virginal, she was almost too good to be real.

He smiled slowly. She was whimpering in fear and it turned him on. Kelly Monroe was tied up and drugged. But not so much that she wasn’t aware of her surroundings, just enough to make her docile. To add to her humiliation, she had on only a pair of white cotton briefs.

Her firm, young body was just filling out giving him the first glimpse of womanhood. He stood and walked slowly to her bed. He leaned down and stared into her dilated blue eyes. “Hello Kelly,” he murmured, pleased when the frightened teenager cringed in terror.

He laughed softly and licked the side of her neck. “Darcy had better come through…if she does I might let you live.” Too bad I can’t say the same about you’re sister.

“She will,” the scared girl choked out. “Then please, let me go,” she begged. Christian traced her nipple with his fingertip. “I have no intention of ever letting you go, Kelly. You are very beautiful and I know with time that you’ll come to enjoy me. I know I’m looking forward to enjoying you…all of you.” He knew where Todd and that bitch were staying. Darcy was powerless to do anything because of her sister. Escobar was already in place. All and all, he felt confidant and in control. Tomorrow everything would come together. Tomorrow he’d have the damming evidence in his possession, and the pleasure of killing Manning slowly in front of Karinna. He bit his lip. Tomorrow…he just couldn’t wait.

To be continued…