Wake-up call for scandal…

Ari Alexander just got the shock of his life. He’s heir apparent to a glittering hotel empire. But the legacy comes with rumors of an explosive family scandal. The last thing the grieving widower needs is Natasha LeBlanc—a stunning consultant with attitude. So why is he so determined to uncover the sensual woman beneath Natasha’s all-business facade?

Private reservation for love

Natasha was hired to protect the interests of the luxury resort chain. But Ari doesn’t seem to realize she’s on his side. Worse, the far-too-sexy brother is arousing desire she’s never felt before, making it impossible to keep her professional distance. From Aspen to celebrity-studded Beverly Hills, Natasha and Ari are caught up in a breaking scandal that could end their five-star love affair before it begins…

Just being here in this room with her sent a course of electricity through him.

Ari tried to shake off the feeling of being so alive, but failed. The part that he thought had died rose up in him and refused to be ignored.

After they finished their meal, Ari and Natasha settled down in the living room.

“Thank you for such a delicious dinner,” she told him.

Ari met her gaze and couldn’t look away, feeling that there was a deeper significance to the visual interchange. He pulled her toward him and kissed her, surprising them both. Heat sparked in the pit of his stomach and ignited into an overwhelming desire.

He kissed her a second time, his tongue tracing the soft fullness of Natasha’s lips.

She gave herself freely to the passion, matching him kiss for kiss.

JACQUELIN THOMAS

is an award-winning, bestselling author with more than thirty-five books in print. When she is not writing, she is busy working toward a degree in psychology. Jacquelin and her family live in North Carolina.

Five Star Attraction

Jacquelin Thomas

www.millsandboon.co.uk

Dear Reader,

What would you do if you suddenly found that you were the heir to a vast fortune? In the first book of my new series introducing the Alexanders of Beverly Hills, you will meet a wonderful new family who find themselves in the midst of a real-life rags-to-riches story. I have always been a fan of the Beverly Hillbillies, so I must confess that they actually inspired my new series. I’m very excited about introducing Malcolm, his wife, Barbara, and their six children to you.

In Five Star Attraction, you will get to know Malcolm’s oldest son, Ari, a widower who works nonstop to keep from dwelling on his singleness until he meets Natasha LeBlanc, a smart and sexy business consultant hired to help his family manage the luxury chain of hotel and spa resorts. I hope you will enjoy their journey to happily ever after. Thanks for your support and don’t forget to email me at jacquelinthomas@yahoo.com. I’d love to hear from you!

Sincerely,

Jacquelin

This book is dedicated to my wonderful husband

who also happens to be my best friend.

I look forward to waking up and spending each day

with you. Thank you for 20 fabulous years!

Contents

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 1

“Dad, what are you thinking about?” Ari Alexander asked.

His father sat with his brows drawn together in an agonized expression. He hadn’t said much since learning he was the only heir to the late Robert DePaul’s vast estate, which included the chain of luxury DePaul Hotel & Spa Resorts.

Three days ago, they were just a family living a normal life in the small town of Aspen, Georgia, located forty miles west of Atlanta. They had been thrust into the limelight with the news that Malcolm Alexander was the illegitimate love child between the hotel magnate and Pearle Strickland, an African American woman.

“Dad,” Ari prompted. “You okay?”

“Just wondering why my mother never thought she could tell me about him,” Malcolm replied. “She never once mentioned Robert DePaul. I have no idea how she could’ve met him. As far as I know, she never left Georgia. She did tell me that Theodore Alexander wasn’t my biological father, but that never mattered to me. He was a good father.”

He drew his lips in thoughtfully then glanced out the window of the private plane transporting them to Los Angeles. “She never volunteered any other information about my real father, and I never asked her about him, but now I wish I had. Knowing about Robert DePaul could’ve prepared me some for all this.” He shrugged. “My mind is going in a hundred different directions.”

Ari nodded in understanding. Robert DePaul had been one of the richest men in the world until his death a week ago. His attorney contacted Ari’s father, and now they were headed to meet with Ira Goodman.

“I keep wondering where Grandma met DePaul.”

Malcolm gave a slight shrug. “Son, I suppose we won’t ever find out, but evidently their paths must have crossed at some point, if what they’re saying is true.”

“The media are having a field day with this,” Ari uttered. “Robert DePaul’s African-American son is sole heir to his fortune. I can’t wait to see the expression on the faces of our newfound relatives. I can read the headlines now—‘The Georgia Hillbillies Are Moving to Beverly Hills.’”

“Our family lives just fine, Ari,” Malcolm interjected quickly. “We don’t have to take this man’s money or anything he owns. I’m only flying out there to learn more about the man who fathered me—not committing to anything else.”

A muscle quivered at Ari’s jaw. “Dad, he was your father, and legally, you are entitled to everything DePaul left in his will for you. It’s your legacy.”

“Just because I’m entitled doesn’t mean I want it,” Malcolm responded. He rested his chin on his hand.

Ari gave Malcolm a sidelong glance. “What does Mom think about all this?”

“You know your mother,” Malcolm said. His mouth curved into an unconscious smile. “She told me that she’s fine with whatever I decide to do.”

That sounded exactly like his mother, Ari thought. Barbara Alexander trusted her husband’s instincts as much as she relied on her own. His parents were partners in business as well as in life, and perfect examples of what a good marriage should look like.

Ari glanced down at the wedding band on his left ring finger, his heart saturated with grief.

At thirty-two years old, Ari was a widower, having lost his wife to cancer. He was still dealing with her death two years later.

He glanced over at his father, who appeared to be deep in thought. Ari and his siblings all agreed that their father should accept his inheritance, but they knew that their deeply spiritual parents would not make a decision until they spent time in prayer, seeking divine guidance.

Ari couldn’t understand why his father would willingly walk away from his inheritance. His parents and grandparents had worked in the hospitality industry for as long as Ari could remember, and they often talked about owning a chain of high-end hotels. This was a dream come true—not just for his mom and dad, but also for him.

They owned two hotels that were performing well, but they always dreamed of expanding. Ari loved working alongside his parents, and this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to manage a conglomerate like the DePaul Hotel Group was just too tempting to pass up.

Ultimately, it was his father’s decision, and his alone to make. Despite what Ari felt about it, he would respect Malcolm’s choice.

The May temperature in California was what Ari considered comfortable. It wasn’t extremely hot and it wasn’t as humid as it was back home.

They had arrived at the Los Angeles International Airport fifteen minutes ago and were now in a sleek, black limousine on the way to Beverly Hills. Ari and his family had traveled to California for vacation once, but it had been years ago. Nothing looked familiar except for the palm trees and all of the nonstop traffic that flowed around them.

In Aspen, there were no hour-long commutes to work in a sea of heavy traffic, no outrageously priced real estate markets, no driving all the way across town to reach his favorite stores or restaurants.

In Aspen, the residents knew one another. Los Angeles would take some getting used to, Ari decided. The only time he’d left Aspen for a length of time was when he attended college in Pennsylvania.

Ari guessed they were in Beverly Hills when the scenery transformed from concrete sidewalks to lush, green lawns and from high-rises to mansions.

Malcolm checked his watch. “It didn’t take long to get here from the airport. Just about thirty minutes.”

They were in the heart of Beverly Hills, only steps from renowned Rodeo Drive. Ari drank in the beauty of the DePaul Hotel. “Wow,” he murmured. “Dad, this now belongs to you.”

Malcolm’s faint smile held a touch of sadness. “Welcome to the DePaul Beverly Hills Hotel,” a young man said as they exited the limo. “Miss Rivera will escort you to your meeting.”

A young woman with blond hair and wearing a trendy-looking business suit greeted them within minutes of stepping inside the swanky hotel. “Mr. Goodman is waiting for you in the penthouse,” she told them.

Ari took note that the outside of the hotel had been inspired by the Spanish Revival architecture and Mediterranean styling that was so prevalent in Beverly Hills. The interior evoked timeless elegance in sun-drenched colors of gold, salmon, coral and cream.

“Absolutely beautiful,” he whispered.

His father agreed. “Looks much better in person than in the magazines.”

Ari agreed.

They were taken up to the DePaul residence via private elevator and greeted by a stoic-faced man introduced to them as Franklin.

“He was Mr. DePaul’s butler,” the young woman explained. She led them into a conference room.

The attorney rose to greet them, but it was the woman behind him who caught Ari’s attention immediately. His gaze focused on her face and then moved over her body slowly. Her skin reminded him of a smooth café au lait. There was just a hint of makeup on her face, dark brown eyeliner that enhanced her almond-shaped eyes.

Ira Goodman shook hands with both of them. “I asked Natasha LeBlanc to join us. She is a business consultant who has worked with Robert since she was in college. I think you will find her expertise in this industry invaluable.”

Natasha smiled and then extended her hand. “It’s very nice to meet you both.”

Ari was rendered speechless for a moment by her beauty. He swallowed hard, struggling to recover his voice. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, as well,” he said finally. Something intense flared through his entrancement.

Their eyes met and held.

Ari cleared his throat softly and then stepped out of the way. He needed to put some distance between them; he was looking for an escape from the seductive scent of her perfume.

They sat around a large custom-designed conference table. Ari made sure to sit two seats away from Natasha.

“I thought you might be hungry, so I ordered lunch,” Ira announced. “It should be here shortly.”

Ari glanced over at his father, who kept his face void of emotion.

Ira cleared his throat nervously.

Malcolm took a long sip of water before saying, “Mr. Goodman, I have to admit that I’m surprised by all that’s happened. I had no idea that Robert DePaul was my father.”

Ira nodded. “I can certainly understand how overwhelming this must be.”

“Why didn’t he leave his estate to his family?”

Ari could feel Natasha’s eyes studying him. He met her gaze, forcing her to look away.

“Robert had a private meeting with his family a few days before he died. He gave them a memorandum outlining his final wishes. I have been Robert’s attorney for almost thirty years,” Ira stated. “I knew him well enough to know that he had made up his mind, and this was the purpose for the meeting. He wanted his relatives to respect his decision in appointing you to replace him at the empire’s helm. Robert didn’t want knives drawn for his ten-billion-dollar empire.”

“Surely he left something for his family,” Malcolm said.

Ira nodded. “He did. He handed each of his nephews a two-million-dollar purse, and he set aside trusts for their children. All of the distributions are outlined in a copy of the memorandum before you. In addition to the rest of his estate, he also left a letter for you, which I believe will give you the answers you’re seeking. Robert was a very thorough man when it came to matters like these. He never left anything to chance.”

Malcolm took the letter but didn’t open it.

Ari knew that his father would wait until he was alone to read the note.

“Mr. Alexander, I can only imagine how overwhelmed you must feel right now,” Natasha said. “Since Robert’s death, the hospitality industry is wondering what’s going to happen with the hotels. The employees are concerned, as well. There are a lot of unanswered questions.”

Malcolm nodded in understanding.

She took a deep breath and released it. “I’m sure you’d like to take some time to adjust to all of your newfound wealth, however…”

“Do you have someone interested in the hotels?” Ari interjected, having a sense of where Natasha was taking the conversation.

She boldly met his gaze. “Although Mr. Alexander hasn’t asked my opinion, I do feel that it would be in his best interest to sell the hotels.”

“Why?” Ari asked. “Is it because you don’t think he can manage the chain? You may not know this, but my family has worked in the hospitality industry for over forty years.”

“I am well aware of the two hotels owned by your father. The DePaul Hotel & Spa Resorts are a chain of luxury resorts, and it takes—”

“Miss LeBlanc,” Ari said, cutting her off, “we are quite capable of taking over the properties. Like you, I’m sure Robert DePaul did his research before deciding to leave his estate to my father. I’m sure we all can agree that he was a very smart businessman.” Natasha LeBlanc was extremely beautiful, but he couldn’t excuse the condescending tone in her voice.

They were interrupted by a knock.

Franklin stood in the doorway with a cart laden with food. He carried plates to the table, two at a time. Moving about the room in a nonintrusive manner, he placed a plate in front of each of them. The stuffed chicken breasts smelled delicious. Ari prayed that his stomach wouldn’t protest too loudly.

Franklin left the room without making a sound.

“Mr. Alexander, it was not my intention to offend you,” Natasha said.

“Your suggestion that my father sell the properties left to him by his father wasn’t meant to be offensive?” Ari asked, leaning forward in his seat. “Are you kidding me?”

“Son, let it go,” Malcolm said quietly.

Ari shook his head. “Dad, I’m sorry, but I can’t. Miss LeBlanc took one look at us and decided that we weren’t good enough for the DePaul image.” He gave her a hard stare. “Admit it. You think we’re just a bunch of country bumpkins who don’t have a clue when it comes to running a chain of luxury hotels.”

Natasha’s lips parted in surprise. “I know all about your family business, Mr. Alexander.”

“Mr. Alexander is my father. Just call me Ari.”

“All right,” she responded calmly. “Ari, I know that you have some experience in the hospitality industry, but managing a chain of luxury spa resorts isn’t the same as what you’re used to doing.” Nervously, she moistened her dry lips. “It’s a bit more involved.”

“Yes, there are some notable differences,” Ari said. “But I assure you, I have worked with a hotel chain since I was sixteen, and I was very good at my job. Hotel chains ensure a level of consistency—the hotel operates on a larger scale, but if not managed properly, can feel a bit sterile and corporate. Our experience with a smaller hotel allows for a more personal touch. Robert DePaul successfully merged the two, by catering to each guest as if they were the only guest in the hotel.”

Natasha nodded in agreement. “I see that you’ve done your homework.”

Ari met her gaze straight on. “I studied Robert DePaul’s business model in college. I am well acquainted with the organizational structure of the DePaul Group.”

He studied her face for a moment to see if her expression would change, but it remained the same.

Ira gestured toward the woman who had escorted them to the suite. “My assistant will get you a full accounting of Robert’s assets.”

“Thank you,” Malcolm responded.

Ari stole a peek at Natasha.

She was dressed to perfection in a cream-colored, sleeveless silk shirt and a teal-colored pencil skirt. The matching jacket hung on the back of her chair. Natasha was slender, but with an athletic build. She wore her shoulder-length hair in soft curls around her heart-shaped face.

Ari couldn’t deny that Natasha was very beautiful, but he didn’t like what she was trying to do to his father. Unconsciously, he played with the gold wedding band on his finger.

Ari Alexander resembled his father. They had the same muscular build, and both stood about five or six inches taller than Natasha’s five-foot-six-inch frame; Ari’s skin was the color of pure honey, while his father was more of a tawny color. They had both inherited those deep, penetrating gray eyes from Robert DePaul. Natasha’s gaze halted at the gleaming gold band on his left ring finger.

He’s married, Natasha thought with disappointment. She found herself wondering what type of woman he had married. Was she a stay-at-home wife, or did she work in some sort of professional capacity?

Why do I care?

Natasha shook all thoughts of Ari out of her mind and focused on her purpose. She was here to consult on the hotel properties, but also to help Harold DePaul keep what should rightfully belong to him. She just never expected to see such a handsome and virile man standing before her.

Her thoughts centered on Malcolm Alexander. He was not at all as she’d imagined. He didn’t seem impressed by all of the luxury surrounding him, and it didn’t seem to matter that he was the heir to billions. In fact, Malcolm didn’t appear to be thrilled at all about the fact that he was now a very wealthy man.

I’d be the happiest woman alive if I were in his shoes, Natasha thought to herself. She wasn’t all about money, but there were times when one desperately needed it for survival.

Her eyes traveled to Ari. Unlike his father, Natasha could tell he really wanted what would one day be his inheritance. He was champing at the bit to get his hands on the hotel properties.

Ari looked at her, his jaw clenched and his eyes slightly narrowed.

Natasha gave him a tiny smile and then quickly looked away, embarrassed that he’d caught her watching him.

She clamped her jaw tight and stared straight ahead. Why did he have to be so good-looking?

Natasha could feel him watching her, and she wondered what he was thinking. She heard Ira mention her name and turned her attention to him. “I’m sorry, could you repeat your question?”

The assistant quickly strolled across the carpet and stepped into the hallway. She returned a few minutes later to say, “Ira, you have an urgent call…”

“Why don’t we take a five-minute break?” the attorney suggested as he made his way to the door.

Ari stood up and walked out of the room. He took a seat in the living room and turned on the television.

Natasha was relieved. She needed some time to get herself together before she looked like a bumbling idiot.

When she returned, Ira walked over to her. “What’s going on with you? You okay?”

She stole a peek at Ari, who was walking into the conference room behind his father. “Nothing’s going on. Just didn’t think this meeting would turn so contentious.”

“Natasha, I have a tremendous amount of respect for you, so I’m going to offer a word of advice,” Ira said. “Make sure that you are choosing the right side in this battle. Robert knew exactly what he was doing when he left most of his estate to Malcolm Alexander. I’m surprised you would believe otherwise.”

Before she could respond, Ira walked over to where Malcolm was standing.

She took a deep breath and then released it slowly. Convincing Malcolm Alexander to sell wasn’t going to be an easy feat.

Ari sat with his jaw clenched. When he met her gaze, the line of his mouth tightened a fraction more. He rose to his feet and walked over to the counter to grab an apple.

He picked up a newspaper from the stack lying atop a cabinet. “Secret Son Inherits Robert DePaul’s Dynasty,” he read aloud. “I guess news travels fast in this town.”

“Put that down,” Malcolm said. “No matter how big or how small a city, people love to talk.”

“It says here that the outraged members of DePaul’s family demand a DNA test be performed to prove that you somehow defrauded Robert. Dad, this is crazy,” Ari uttered, shaking his head in disgust. “You’ve never met the man.”

A muscle flicked angrily in Malcolm’s jaw. “Son, they don’t care about that. When people think they have been mistreated, they jump to all sorts of wild conclusions. They are looking to blame someone—anyone. They can say whatever they feel, but it doesn’t make it true. This applies to Robert DePaul, as well. For all we know, he could’ve done all this to upset his family. I have no problem with taking a DNA test. I think we all want to know the truth.”

“Robert was very clear,” the attorney said as he entered the room. “He wanted to acknowledge you as his only ch—”

Malcolm cut him off by saying, “My mother never once mentioned this man. Frankly, I don’t know how or when she could’ve met him. This could be a case of mistaken identity.”

Ira pointed to the letter Malcolm was holding. “I believe the letter you have in your hand will give you the answers you need.”

“I want to have the DNA test,” Malcolm blurted. His tone brooked no argument.

“I think you’re making a wise decision, Mr. Alexander,” Natasha interjected.

“Dad, you don’t have to do this,” Ari argued. He gazed at Natasha as he said, “You don’t have to prove anything to these people.”

Malcolm nodded. “I know, but I want it, all the same, son. I’m not doing this for them as much as for me.”

Ari waited to see if his father would say more, but nothing came. The matter was settled.

Chapter 2

After spending over an hour going over an inventory of Robert’s real estate holdings, Ira called for another five-minute break. He excused himself to take a phone call. Natasha did the same, leaving Malcolm and Ari alone in the conference room.

Ari stood up to stretch. He had no idea their meeting would take so long. He was tired and his father looked exhausted. They were both still on East Coast time.

Malcolm picked up the unopened letter and said, “I was about eight or nine years old when I asked my mama why I didn’t look like any of them.”

“What did she tell you?” Ari asked.

“She sat me down and explained that I had a different father. Mama did tell me that he was a white man, and that they had loved each other very much. That’s all she told me, and at the time, I guess it was enough for me.”

“How do you feel about all of this now?” Ari inquired.

Malcolm shrugged. “Son, I’m not sure. First, I want to have that DNA test done, and then we’ll just go from there.”

Ari pointed to the letter. “Aren’t you going to read it?”

“Eventually, but not just yet,” his father responded.

“You plan on waiting until after the DNA test results come back?” Ari walked around the room, looking at the artwork. He stopped at a window and peered outside.

Malcolm shook his head. “No, it’s addressed to me specifically, so I intend to read it, but I’m just not ready right now.” He rose to his feet and joined Ari at the window. “This is a beautiful city.”

“It sure is,” Ari agreed.

“Dad, Robert DePaul was a brilliant man,” he said after a moment. “He wouldn’t have left you his estate if he didn’t know for sure that you are his son. Take another look at that portrait on the wall behind you. You are the spitting image of him—you just have more coloring. That’s why I can’t believe a DNA test is needed.”

“Ari, there’s no shame in taking that test. It will alleviate any issues later.”

“Ira told us that the will is ironclad.”

“To be honest, I’m not worried about it, son. I’m not sure I want to be saddled with Robert DePaul’s estate. Look at all that stuff on the table. Our lives are not complicated, and to tell you the truth, I prefer to keep it that way.”

A muscle quivered in his jaw. Ari couldn’t believe what he was hearing. “You are actually considering not accepting the inheritance? Dad, you can’t be serious.”

“I have always worked for everything I ever had, Ari. I am not going to feud with the DePaul family over this man’s money. I never knew Robert DePaul personally, and I don’t need his money.”

Ari didn’t argue, but he didn’t believe that his father should refuse the inheritance. He was Robert DePaul’s son and legally entitled to his estate.

His parents believed in helping others less fortunate—with that much money, they could really make an impact in their small town. The schools needed books for students. His family had been hosting fundraisers to get the money. Well, the inheritance would enable them to buy textbooks for all of the students. Then, there was Habitat for Humanity. His father wasn’t thinking clearly.

“Son, what are you thinking about?”

Ari turned his attention to his father. “I was thinking about all the good that could come from you accepting this inheritance. The schools back in Aspen could have textbooks for every student.”

Malcolm nodded. “We could build several houses… I’ve considered all of this. Despite it all, I have to consult the good Lord, Ari. Everything we do must be done in order. God is the ultimate counselor, and it’s his advice I will seek.”

Ari couldn’t argue with that, so he remained quiet.

Natasha paused a moment outside the door of the residence to straighten her jacket. She ran her fingers through her dark brown, shoulder-length hair.

“This is definitely not going to be as easy as I thought,” she whispered. Ari Alexander had taken an instant dislike to her the moment she opened her mouth. Now she had to find a way to do damage control.

I can’t come on too strong, she thought. It will only make them suspicious.

Natasha took a deep breath and released it slowly. She allowed the tension to leave her body before she entered the residence. She was never this nervous around clients.

Ari was in the living room when she strolled into the foyer. He eyed her a moment before saying, “I see you’re back, Miss LeBlanc.”

Her back stiffened at the coolness of his words. “Did you assume I wouldn’t return?” she asked, noting that his gray eyes were like silver lightning.

“I am smart enough to never assume anything where you’re concerned,” Ari replied. He checked his watch and then said, “We should join the others.”

Irritated, Natasha glared at his back as she followed him into the conference room. When they were all seated, she pulled out a proposal. “Mr. Alexander, this is a copy of an offer from another corporation interested in acquiring the five-star properties.”

Malcolm picked up the proposal but didn’t open it. “I will review the offer and then get back to you with my answer,” he told her.

Natasha had expected this response from Malcolm. She also expected the stern expression that graced Ari’s face.

“May I have a word with you, Miss LeBlanc?” Ari inquired.

“Sure,” she responded with a tiny smile. Natasha struggled to appear calm, but deep inside her stomach was filled with nervous energy. She half expected Malcolm to intervene, but he remained silent.

Ari led her into another room.

“Tell me something. What’s in this for you?” he asked, openly studying her face, as if trying to read her thoughts.

Her eyebrows rose in surprise. “Excuse me?”

“Let’s not play games,” Ari snapped in frustration. “What will you get if you are able to convince my father to sell? What’s in it for you?”

Natasha struggled to keep her voice low. “I’m afraid I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“C’mon, I wasn’t born yesterday,” Ari uttered. “You definitely have something to gain, or you wouldn’t be working so hard otherwise. Who wants to buy hotels from my father?”

“It’s a conglomerate out of Nevada. They are looking to get into the hospitality industry. Purchasing the DePaul Hotel & Spa Resorts would provide them the opportunity with minimum risk.” Natasha settled back in her seat, saying, “I am merely here to look out for your father’s best interest. I think their proposal is a sound one. Mr. Alexander stands to make millions off this deal.”

Ari folded his arms across his chest. “Miss LeBlanc, my father doesn’t need you to look after him. He has a wife and six children who definitely have his back one hundred percent.”

Frustrated, Natasha shook her head. How could a man look so sexy and be so irritating at the same time? She carefully considered her words. “Ari, I’d really like for us to be on the same side. This is why Ira asked me to meet with you and Mr. Alexander. I am merely suggesting that your father consider all options.”

“No, you’re not,” Ari argued. “You are pushing for him to sell the properties. As long as you’re trying to force my father to sell what is rightfully his, we will never be on the same side.”

She folded her arms across her chest. “I haven’t known your father for very long, but from what I’ve seen, I can’t force him to do anything.” Natasha paused a moment before adding, “And neither can you. Now, if you’re done, I’d like to rejoin our meeting.”

Her cell phone rang.

She answered and said, “I need to call you back. Give me ten minutes.”

“Why don’t you take your call now?” Ari suggested. “There are some questions I have for Ira. I can discuss them while you’re returning your phone call.”

Natasha glared at him before heading to the door. She could feel the heat of his gaze on her body.

In the hallway, she slowed down her breathing as she stepped into the elevator, forcing her body to relax. Natasha went down to the lobby.

She waited until she was out of the building before pulling out her phone.

“I didn’t mean to be so abrupt, but I was having a conversation with Malcolm’s son,” she said when Harold DePaul answered his phone.

“How is it going?” he asked.

“I did as you instructed, but I think you might have a problem.”

“I’m listening.”

“Malcolm Alexander is willing to take a DNA test. Harold, he is the spitting image of your uncle,” Natasha stated. “He is Robert’s son.”

Harold muttered something unintelligible.

“As much as the thought may detest you, Malcolm is a part of your family. It may be better to embrace him rather than become his enemy.”

“I just want what should rightfully and lawfully be mine—Uncle Robert’s estate,” Harold blurted. “I gave that man nothing but years of loyalty and dedication. He owes Malcolm Alexander nothing.”

Natasha didn’t agree but decided to keep her mouth shut. Harold DePaul had always been temperamental, a man who wanted to have everything his way. Although he and Robert often butted heads, they respected one another.

“I did what you asked me to do and left the proposal with Malcolm,” Natasha responded. “Just so you know, his son doesn’t want the properties sold. I’m not sure how much influence Ari has on his father, but he could be a problem.”

“Use your charm,” Harold suggested. “I’m sure a beautiful woman such as yourself can convince the man to do what is right.”

Natasha struggled to keep her temper in check. “I don’t work this way, and you know it.”

Harold was silent for a moment then responded, “I’m sorry, Natasha. I shouldn’t have said that.”

“No, you shouldn’t have,” she said tersely. “I told you from the very beginning that I would help you, but only if everything was aboveboard. I haven’t changed my mind about that. I am not going to do anything illegal.”

“The initial payment has been made,” Harold blurted. “This should put a smile on your pretty little face.”

“It doesn’t matter if you’re planning to play dirty,” Natasha replied, standing her ground. “You can have all of the money back if you try to change the terms of our agreement.”

“Natasha, I know that you need me as much as I need you right now, so let’s just try to get along,” Harold suggested. “We used to be good friends, you and me.”

“Until you showed your true colors,” she responded.

“I never meant to hurt you.”

“I don’t want to talk about it, Harold. Leave the past in the past.”

“I have faith in you, Natasha. You can convince Malcolm Alexander to do the right thing. We can’t let that hillbilly family mess up everything my uncle and I worked for. Those people have no clue how to run a multimillion-dollar-a-year luxury resort, much less a chain of them. Two insignificant hotels does not make a chain.”

“I will do what I can to help you, Harold.”

“That’s all I ask of you, Natasha.”

She ended the call and put away her cell phone. “I hope I’m doing the right thing,” Natasha whispered. She had no idea why Robert DePaul gave everything to a son he had never met, but she assumed it was mostly out of guilt.

He had spoken of his love for Malcolm’s mother, and his regret of not having a relationship with his son. Robert had confessed that he had loved Pearle Alexander more than he had ever loved another woman, including his late wife.

Still, Natasha was shocked over the news that the majority of the estate would go to Malcolm and not Harold.

Malcolm Alexander was not a man moved by money. Harold, on the other hand, enjoyed living a lavish lifestyle. He frequented star-studded galas, movie premieres, award shows and parties—he wanted to be on the Hollywood A-list. Robert DePaul loved the finer things in life, as well, but he was a very generous man who preferred to stay out of the limelight.

Ari watched as the lab tech swabbed the inside of Malcolm’s cheek. Ira had arranged for the DNA test to be done immediately, per his father’s request.

“You didn’t have to do this,” he told his father after the tech left the room. “Robert DePaul’s instructions were clear. If anyone in his family challenged his will, they would forfeit their share in his inheritance,” Ari stated. “Their portion would automatically revert to you. The man made sure his will was ironclad.”

“This is not about them,” Malcolm stated. “They have every right to be concerned, but I’m doing this for me. I thought you understood, son.”

“I hear what you’re saying, Dad,” Ari responded. “I just don’t get it. Do you really think Robert DePaul would’ve left you anything if he were not sure that you are his son?”

“We see the similarity now, but only because we’re looking for it,” Malcolm responded. “How many times have we looked at DePaul’s picture and never noticed that we have his eyes?”

“You’re right,” Ari muttered while staring at the huge portrait of his newly discovered grandfather. His dad was right. He had never seen the resemblance before news of the inheritance surfaced.

Ira and his assistant stepped outside the room.

“Dad, what are you afraid of?” Ari inquired when it was just the two of them.

Malcolm frowned. “What are you talking about?”

“You haven’t opened the letter yet. Why?”

“Because I know that everything I’ve ever believed is going to change. I’m not so sure that I’m ready for that.”

Ari broke into a grin. “Grandma adored you. That will never change. You and Grandpa—the relationship you had with him will never change.”

“Son, why is keeping this inheritance so important to you?”

“Because this is a chance to help our Aspen community in a way that we’ve always talked about. We talked about owning a chain of hotels…this just feels right to me, Dad. I will respect your decision, whatever choice you make.”

“We will hear what the rest of the family has to say,” Malcolm said.

Ari’s eyes traveled around the room. “Robert DePaul certainly had good taste. This is probably the best-looking conference room I’ve ever been in.”

Malcolm agreed.

“Is Natasha still on that call?” Ari asked. He wondered briefly if she were talking with the people wanting to purchase the hotel properties. Probably giving them an update, he decided. His father was a very intelligent man and had a head for business. He would not be easily swayed one way or the other.

“Must be.” His father pushed away from the table and stood up.

Franklin appeared with a tray of bottles decorated with Swarovski crystals.

Malcolm glanced over at Ari, who asked, “What are those?”

“Bottled water, sir,” Franklin replied.

“That’s some fancy bottle,” Malcolm commented as he took one. “Bling H2O. I never heard of this. Have you, son?”

“No, I haven’t.” Ari picked up his cell phone and began typing. “Franklin, would you happen to know how much one of these would cost? I’m just curious.”

“They run anywhere from thirty-eight a bottle to thousands of dollars. It really depends on the type of bottle, sir.”

Malcolm shook his head in disbelief. “Designer water…”

“It’s the Cristal of bottled water,” Ari interjected, reading from the web browser on his iPhone. “It was created by a Hollywood producer. The water contained in the bottle comes from a Tennessee spring.”

“Mister Robert only allowed Bling H2O to be served at his hotels,” the butler contributed. “However, he kept King Island Cloud Juice stocked for select VIP guests.” He paused a moment before adding, “Will this be all, sir?”

“Yes. Thank you, Franklin.” Malcolm examined the bottle of water. “This is too pretty to drink. I’m going to have to take a bottle home to your mama. I can’t wait to see the expression on her face.”

Ari chuckled. His mother would never believe it without seeing the bottle of luxury water for herself.

Malcolm poured the chilled liquid into a glass and took a sip. “It tastes good,” he said. “Almost too good to be true.”

Ari followed suit. “I have to say that this is the best water I’ve ever tasted. I thought Le Bleu was expensive at twelve dollars a bottle.”

His father nodded in agreement. “We only carry Le Bleu Premium when a customer requests it, and even then, they pay for it. This is certainly a different lifestyle.”

“It would take some getting used to,” Ari said. “Don’t know about you, but I’m up to the challenge.”

Natasha strolled into the room. “I apologize for having to interrupt our meeting, but that call had been scheduled for months.”

“It’s quite all right,” Malcolm responded. “You haven’t missed much.”

Ari leaned forward in his chair. “So you and Robert were close.”

“Not in the way that you are implying,” she responded coldly. “Robert was my mentor when I was in college, and I worked for him before starting my own consulting company. I was just as close to his wife before she passed away.”

“Son, stop giving this little lady a hard time.”

Natasha smiled smoothly, betraying nothing of her annoyance.

Ari looked at his father. “Miss LeBlanc looks like she can take care of herself, Dad. She doesn’t need your protection.”

Ira strode back into the conference room with purpose. “I need to get back to my office for a meeting,” he announced. “Let’s table the rest for tomorrow.”

Malcolm gave a slight nod. “That’s fine.”

Natasha rose to her feet. “It has truly been a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Alexander.”

“What about me?” Ari asked.

“It was nice to meet you, too,” she responded. “I’ll see you both in the morning.”

“We’re not going anywhere.” Ari smiled when he caught the expression on Natasha’s face. The meaning behind his words hadn’t escaped her.

Chapter 3

Ari Alexander was infuriating, to say the least. What had she done to make him so distrustful of her? Natasha drove along the 405 freeway, trying to figure out the answer to that question.

“I’m doing the right thing,” she kept telling herself over and over again. Natasha thought about her last conversation with Robert. He had been clear about his final instructions—this much she knew. Robert DePaul died the very next day.

The last thing she wanted to do was betray the man who had been a mentor to her, but in some ways she could understand why Harold felt so slighted. He had worked alongside his uncle and been extremely loyal to Robert. Malcolm appeared to be a good man, but he had never had any type of relationship with his biological father.

Natasha didn’t want to insult Malcolm Alexander or his infuriating son, but she hoped that they would seriously consider her advice to sell, although she didn’t mention that the investment group interested consisted of members of Robert DePaul’s family.

Shortly after the will was read, Harold approached her with a way for his family to retain the hotel group. She didn’t see any reason not to help him—Harold and his relatives only wanted to protect what should have been theirs in the first place.

Despite Malcolm’s business acumen, Natasha still believed that he lacked the experience for running a hotel chain of this size. Once Malcolm decided to sell, Harold promised to pay her the balance of the money they offered. Medical bills would eat up the ten thousand Robert left her. He had also given her complete ownership of the building that housed her company. If Harold hadn’t approached her with his offer, she had planned to sell the building.

She put on her right signal as she switched lanes. Natasha was taking the next off-ramp. She was looking forward to slipping off her heels and relaxing. It had been a trying day, to say the least.

Ari and his father escorted Ira and his assistant to the door.

“I’m only a phone call away,” Ira told them. “Call if you have any questions.”

“There won’t be anything pressing that can’t wait until morning,” Malcolm responded.

Ari settled down in the living room and turned on the television. Malcolm was about to join him when Franklin appeared from another room.

“The master bedroom has been prepared for you, Mr. Alexander.” He turned to Ari and said, “You will be in the guest room across the hall.”

“Thank you,” they said in unison.

“Mr. Alexander, is there anything I can get for you before dinner?” Franklin inquired.

“We’re fine,” Malcolm said.

“Chef Ricardo will have dinner prepared promptly at 6:00 p.m.”

There was a thin smile on his lips as Malcolm gave a slight nod. “Thank you.”

Franklin disappeared as quietly as he had arrived.

“That dude bothers me,” Ari whispered. “I wonder if he even knows how to smile. Maybe it’s in the Butlers of America handbook or something that smiling is strictly forbidden.”

Laughing, Malcolm nodded in agreement. “I don’t know how Robert could have him lurking around all of the time. Ira told me that Franklin and Chef Ricardo actually live across the hall in accommodations for personal staff. However, he moved into the room near the kitchen when Robert got sick. He was very loyal to Robert.”

Ari gave his father a sidelong glance and said in a loud whisper, “Well, now he’s yours.”

Malcolm sighed softly. He got up and walked into the conference room. He returned a few minutes later carrying the letter from Robert. “I guess I should read this now.”

“You don’t have to do it until you’re ready,” Ari told him. “Maybe you should wait until you’re with Mom.”

“I thought about that, but I changed my mind,” Malcolm said. “I guess my curiosity is getting the better of me.”

They sat down at the table, side by side.

Malcolm opened the letter. He read the words aloud.

Malcolm,

I’m sure the news that you are my son has blindsided you and for that, I apologize. I have long wanted to come to you, but your mother made me promise never to disrupt your life.

I met Pearle Strickland in Wilmington, North Carolina, when she worked as a housekeeper for the DePaul DeSoto Hotel owned by my family. I want you to know that Pearle and I were very much in love, but we were both concerned with how our relationship would be viewed by the world and our families.

When Pearle found out that she was pregnant, she decided it was best to spare my family the scandal by leaving town. This was not what I wanted, but I’m sure you are aware of your mother’s stubborn streak—she would have it no other way.

Soon after, I received word that she was getting married and she urged me to forget about her. She told me that Theodore Alexander was a good man and would be a good father to you. She insisted that this was the way it had to be. I was to never have any contact with you.

Although this was what your mother wanted, I found it hard not to keep track of how you were progressing. My wife and I were never fortunate to have children. I have always believed God would not allow me another child because I had not honored the one he blessed me with. Malcolm, I want you to understand that this is not about my guilt in not publicly recognizing you as my son.

It is no accident that you are in the hospitality business. Your mother had always shown an interest in her own hotel, and I was happy to teach her everything I knew at the time. I believe she used the money I had given her when she left to purchase the small inn she owned. She and her husband transformed what was virtually nothing into a very successful bed-and-breakfast.

Then you returned home from the military and opened the first Alexander Hotel. Five years later, the second one opened, and that’s when I knew that you were the one who would carry the DePaul Hotel Group into the future. You have the vision and the business acumen I desire in a successor. Vision is the most powerful thing owned by any human being, even stronger than financial power. With you at the helm, I expect our modus operandi will continue harmoniously as we have done in the past.

Despite all you will hear about me, the one thing I want you to know for sure—I was just a man who loved a woman, but was foolish enough to allow others to keep me away from her. For that, I am deeply ashamed.

I hope one day you will find it in your heart to forgive me. Although we never had as much as a conversation, I have always loved you as a son. If only God had granted me a few more years. I did not want to come to you as an ill man.

I will leave this earth in peace, knowing that I have finally corrected a grievous wrong. You are the future of the DePaul Hotel Group.

Your father,

Robert DePaul

“So, what do you think?” Ari questioned half in anticipation, half in dread as he silently observed a range of emotions that had settled on his father’s face.

Malcolm shrugged. “If Robert DePaul wanted a relationship with me, he could have had one, regardless of how my mother felt. All he had to do was acknowledge me as his son. What could she have done?” He folded the letter carefully and stuck it back into the envelope.

“I get the feeling he didn’t want to embarrass Grandma.” Ari met his father’s gaze. “I do believe that he wanted to have a relationship with you, though.”

Malcolm didn’t seem convinced. “His wife never gave him children. If she had, do you really think he would have left his estate to me?”

Ari didn’t know the answer to that, but he replied, “He didn’t have to leave it to you, Dad. He could’ve left it to his DePaul relatives.”

“Maybe he should have,” Malcolm uttered.

“Dad, don’t say that.”

“I don’t need his money.”

“But he wanted you to have it,” Ari countered. “Dad, you are his son and he made sure that you were taken care of—I think it’s admirable.”

“Or misplaced guilt,” Malcolm contributed. “He made a choice a long time ago, and he should have left it at that.”

“You’re angry,” Ari told his father.

The tense lines on Malcolm’s face relaxed. “My life was fine, and I’m not so sure I’m willing to give it up for a three-ring circus.”

Ari nodded in understanding. His father was a private man, and his inheritance had thrust him into the limelight.

“Dad, legally you are entitled to everything Robert DePaul left you, and I think it’s an incredible blessing. You and Mom have always talked about owning a chain of hotels—you can do that now. Dad, this is in our blood.”

“Your mother and I will pray over this situation. The good Lord above will guide us in making the right decision.”

Ari agreed.

The butler arrived to announce that dinner was being served, and he led them to the dining room.

“Is someone joining us?” Malcolm asked, looking at the beautiful display of food on the table.

“It will just be the two of you,” the butler replied.

“This is a lot of food,” Ari interjected. The delectable spread included roast chicken, baked tilapia, steamed vegetables, rice pilaf and assorted rolls.

Malcolm agreed. “Tell Chef Ricardo to come on out here. You two will eat with us. The best way to get to know a person is over a meal, I always say.”

Franklin looked shocked but managed to recover. “Sir…”

“Call me Malcolm. The first thing I want you to know about me is that I’m a simple man. Now, there’s no way that my son and I can eat up all of this food, so y’all come join us. We don’t believe in wasting food.”

Franklin swallowed hard and then gave a slight nod. “We’d be honored, sir.”

He left the room, walking quickly.

Ari looked at his father and grinned. “I thought the man was about to pass out when you asked him to eat with us.”

Malcolm chuckled as he sat down at the table.

Franklin returned with Chef Ricardo. Both men wore expressions of disbelief and waited for Ari to sit down before seating themselves.

Malcolm said the blessing.

Franklin didn’t pick up his fork until Malcolm and Ari sampled the food on their plates.

“Everything is delicious,” Malcolm said. He wiped his mouth on the end of his napkin.

Ari agreed.

Chef Ricardo smiled. “It was very nice of you to allow us to join you.” He glanced down at his plate. “Franklin and I usually take our meals in the kitchen.”

“You went through a lot of effort to cook this fancy meal,” Malcolm acknowledged, “so I figure you might as well enjoy some of it with us.”

“Forgive me for staring,” Franklin murmured. “You look so much like Mr. Robert. He was a very kind man, although sad at times. He spoke of your mother often.”

Malcolm gave a polite smile. “I regret that I will never have the chance to meet or get to know Robert DePaul. I have always admired his business acumen.”

“Franklin, how did you come to work for Robert?” Ari asked while cutting into the tender fish.

“I was living on the streets,” Franklin said. “One day when I was looking for food, I saw these thugs trying to rob Mr. Robert. I went to help him.” He stuck a forkful of vegetables into his mouth.

“Franklin is a black belt in karate,” Chef Ricardo interjected.

“I made sure Mr. Robert made it safely to his car. When he was inside, I was about to walk off, and he called me back. I thought he was going to offer me some money, but he offered me a job instead,” Franklin said. “That was almost eight years ago.”

Ari glanced over at Ricardo, who said, “I met Mr. Robert at the World Culinary Showcase in Dallas, Texas. He came up to me after my presentation and invited me to lunch. A faculty member from the school I attended told him about me. He flew me out here to cook a meal for him and his wife. They loved it and offered me a permanent position as their personal chef. I have been with them for five years now.”

“Mr. Robert was a good man,” Franklin said. “I am sorry you didn’t get the chance to meet him personally.”

“Me, too,” Malcolm responded.

For dessert, there was lemon pound cake with strawberries and whipped cream and a chocolate drizzle.

Later, Ari settled down to watch some television while his father was in the master bedroom on the telephone.

He’s talking to Mom, Ari thought silently. He hoped that his mother could convince his father to keep the inheritance. This was a once-in-a-lifetime chance for his parents to live out their dreams.

Ari’s thoughts centered on Natasha; he couldn’t understand how she evoked feelings he thought long dead. The way she looked at him, even when he felt the heat of her frustration…she affected him deeply, and it bothered him.

I don’t trust her.

She was loyal to Robert. Did that mean she was just as loyal to the rest of his family?

Natasha was glad to be home. She kicked off her shoes as soon as she entered the trendy three-bedroom condo. Natasha removed her jacket next.

A full-figured woman wearing a T-shirt and jeans came down the stairs carrying an empty glass.

Natasha smiled. “How did today go, Monica?”

“It was a good day,” she responded with a smile.

They talked for a few minutes before Natasha headed upstairs to a bedroom. She entered the room. “Hey, you,” she greeted.

A little boy sitting at a desk in front of a computer looked up and grinned. “Mommy, you’re home.”

“I sure am. Nurse Monica told me that you had a good day.” Joshua was her pride and joy. Natasha tickled his ears.

He giggled. “I did.”

“How was class today?” she asked. Her six-year-old son had leukemia, and for the moment he was in remission. He wasn’t able to go to school because his blood counts were low, putting him at risk for infection. Joshua was able to keep up with his friends and class work via satellite.

“Kinda boring,” Joshua responded. “I have homework to do.”

“Is that what you’re working on?”

Joshua nodded. “I have to write a story about a fish.”

She gave him a sidelong glance. “You love fish, don’t you?”

“But I don’t want to write about a fish,” Joshua stated. “I want to write a story about football.”

“Well, why don’t you email Mrs. Terry and ask if you can do that?” Natasha suggested.

He smiled. “Okay, I will.”

He had been looking forward to playing football this summer with a Pop Warner league. He was finally old enough for the flag football team that practiced at the park a block away from their building. But in a cruel twist of fate, Joshua was diagnosed with leukemia.

She hugged him. “I love you, Joshua.”

“I love you more.”

“You work on that email to your teacher while I change into something comfortable.”

“Can we have spaghetti for dinner?” Joshua asked.

“We sure can,” she responded with a grin. Joshua loved spaghetti and would eat it every night if she let him.

Natasha stood in the doorway of his room, gazing at him. When Joshua was diagnosed a few months ago, his doctor had informed her that he needed to be out of school for one to three years because the chemotherapy treatments would compromise his immune system. It didn’t take much for Joshua to get sick. Just last week, they had to run back and forth to the hospital because Joshua kept running a temperature.

She’d exhausted her savings just to hire Monica so that Joshua had a full-time nurse. Her insurance hadn’t made a dent in the mountain of medical bills sitting on her desk. Robert fell ill a month before she received Joshua’s diagnosis, so she hadn’t confided in him. She was grateful for the ten thousand he left for her, but that wouldn’t cover future treatments. When Harold approached her with the offer to pay the medical bills in full, she’d jumped at the opportunity. Nothing was more important to her than Joshua.

Chapter 4

“So, this is where Robert spent his final days,” Ari said when they ventured into the master bedroom. “This place looks fit for a king.”

Malcolm glanced around the large bedroom. “I guess to some, Robert DePaul was a king.”

Ari navigated around the bedroom. “Dad, this is spectacular. This closet is big enough to make me dizzy, and there’s another room in here with a washer and dryer.”

Malcolm frowned. “A washer and dryer in the bedroom? I’ve never heard of such.”

“I guess they make bedrooms more functional out here in California. If I had a bedroom like this, I could get a whole day’s work done without ever leaving the room.”

Ari strolled into another room. “There is a subzero freezer and fridge in here, too. This definitely works for me.”

“And to think, all your mother and I ever dreamed of having in our bedroom is a fireplace,” Malcolm said.

“Well, now you have two fireplaces, a wide-screen television and a waterfall in the shower built for two.” Ari walked over to his father and said, “Dad, I hope you and Mom know what to do with all this stuff.”

Malcolm grinned. “Don’t worry about us, son. I’m sure we could figure it out.”

“Dad, you and Mom deserve to live like this. You two have worked so hard for the family. I’m glad Robert left his estate to you. It was the right thing to do, but also he made the right decision. You will bring nothing but honor to his legacy.”

The two men embraced.

Malcolm stifled a yawn. “I don’t know about you, but I’m still on East Coast time. I’m beat.”

“I am, too,” Ari said. “I’ll see you in the morning.”

He left the master suite and walked across the hall where he would be sleeping. His suite was not as opulent as the bedroom his father was in, but it was the largest guest room Ari had ever been in. His master retreat at home was a nice size but definitely not this big.

Ari made his way to the bathroom and turned on the shower. “You can fit two people in this one, too,” he whispered. “Man, this is nice.”

He showered, slipped into a pair of pajamas and settled down in the sitting room to watch television. A picture of April formed in Ari’s mind.

She’s smiling. This must mean that she’s happy and at peace.

Ari missed her dearly. He touched the wedding band on his finger as his heart grieved the loss of the only woman he had ever loved. He often wondered if he would ever feel such emotion for another person again.

Another image formed.

His breath caught as Natasha’s faced loomed in his mind. Ari shook his head as if trying to shake the likeness of her out of his mind. How could she control his thoughts like this? Everything about Natasha disturbed him.

After a dinner of spaghetti and turkey meatballs, Natasha helped Joshua with his homework and then read him a story. Joshua had complained of feeling tired afterward, so he had gone straight to bed.

Natasha settled down in her den and opened a novel. She found it hard to concentrate on reading. Ari Alexander and his father dominated her thoughts. They didn’t have the experience needed to manage luxury properties like the DePaul Hotel Group. Why can’t Ari see that?

Harold had worked under Robert’s tutelage since college. He was more qualified, and he was Robert’s nephew. But Malcolm Alexander was Robert’s son.

“This is such a mess,” she whispered. It was too bad they couldn’t find some way to work together. Harold had been the one balking at the very thought of joining forces with Malcolm. He wanted all of Robert’s assets retained in their family.

Natasha wasn’t sure how this situation was going to turn out, but she prayed for a positive outcome. She liked and respected Malcolm Alexander. His son Ari was another story, however.

Those deep, penetrating eyes of his seemed to look right through Natasha. His gaze was uncomfortable and kept her on the defensive.

He thinks I’m trying to cheat his father out of his fortune, but I’m protecting him, Natasha kept telling herself. Besides, this really has nothing to do with Ari. It’s Malcolm’s decision. Enough about Ari, she silently chided. He’s a married man and after tomorrow, I probably won’t ever see him again.

Natasha stifled a yawn. She was exhausted, but it was much too early for her to go to bed.

She rose to her feet and made her way to her son’s room.

Joshua was asleep.

Natasha stood there, watching him. She was so proud of her little angel. Since finding out about the leukemia, Joshua had exhibited nothing but courage, even at his weakest.

Whenever he went in to have chemo, Joshua was always the one trying to cheer up the others who were scared or sobbing. He liked to make cards for the other children in the hospital, or take them candy.

Natasha felt something wet on her cheeks. She hadn’t realized she was crying. She wiped her face on the back of her hands and then eased the door shut. She quietly made her way to her bedroom and turned on the monitor. It gave her comfort, knowing that she could hear her son cry out if he needed her.

The telephone rang.

She saw her sister’s name on the caller ID and picked up the receiver.

“Natalie,” she said into the phone. “It’s about time you called me back. Mama’s been driving me crazy about your engagement dinner. Remember how she was when Nathan got married? Well, she is even worse now.” She glanced over at a photo of the three of them. They were triplets and very close.

Her sister laughed. “I’m sorry. My caseload is really heavy right now. I’ve been trying to clear my desk before the wedding.”

“I understand, but our mother doesn’t. You know she wants everything to be perfect.”

“It will be,” Natalie responded. “She just needs to relax. How’s my little sweetie?”

“He had a good day today, sis. He was tired after dinner, so I sent him to bed.”

“I know deep down that Joshua is going to be fine,” Natalie stated. “Just let me know if I can help you with money, doctors…anything.”

“We are going to be fine, I think,” Natasha said. “I feel so much better having a full-time nurse caring for him when I’m not here.”

“That has to be expensive.”

“It is,” Natasha confirmed. “But I’ll do whatever I have to do for Joshua.”

“Have you heard from his father?” her sister asked.

“No, and I don’t expect to hear from him. Natalie, the man that was supposed to love me forever…he left me for a stripper. Calvin never wanted to be a father, so when I got pregnant—that was the last straw for him.”

“I never thought he was good enough for you, Natasha. You know I never liked him.”

“I know. Back then I couldn’t understand why, but I do now.” She ran her fingers through her hair, fingering the curls. “Let’s talk about you. My sister’s getting married.”

“I am,” she squealed on the other end of the line.

“I’m really happy for you, Natalie, but I have to confess that I’m a tiny bit jealous. I want a happily ever after.”

“You’re going to get yours,” Natalie assured her. “The right man is on his way to you.”

An image of Ari formed in her mind, but Natasha shooed it away. He’s a married man, she silently screamed.

“Natasha, you still here?”

She forced her thoughts back to her conversation with her sister. “Yeah, I’m here.”

They talked for almost two hours before Natasha said, “Natalie, I can’t wait to see you this weekend.” She glanced over at the clock and said, “Sweetie, I have a meeting tomorrow morning, so I need to get ready for bed.”

“Give the munchkin a big hug for me.”

“I will,” she promised.

Natasha hung up the phone and then went to check on Joshua one more time. She sat down in the chair beside his bed, watching him as a smile tugged at her lips.

Malcolm was in the kitchen pouring a cup of coffee when Ari walked out of the guest bedroom. “Want some?” he asked.

“Sure,” Ari responded. “Where’s Chef Ricardo? I’m sure he’d have a fit to find you helping yourself to coffee. I think it’s impolite or something.”

Smiling, Malcolm handed him a cup of steaming-hot coffee. “He offered, but I insisted on doing it myself. Ricardo left for a grocery run this morning. Apparently, he takes care of all of the shopping when it comes to the kitchen. He told me that he gets here at 7:00 a.m. and doesn’t leave until after seven in the evening. He has weekends off, however.”

“How did you sleep?” Ari inquired.

“I slept pretty good. Missed your mother, though.”

“I still haven’t gotten used to sleeping without April.” A wild flash of grief ripped through him. “Dad, I miss her so much.”

“She was a wonderful woman.” Malcolm took a sip of his coffee. “Oh, the food is already set up in the conference room. We’re going to have a working breakfast with Ira and Natasha.”

“I don’t trust that woman,” Ari stated at the mention of Natasha’s name.

“Get to know her, son, before you make any assumptions.”

Ari eyed his father. “I know you, Dad. You don’t trust her any more than I do.”

There was a knock on the door.

Ari followed Franklin into the foyer and greeted Ira with a handshake.

Natasha entered the elegantly appointed quarters a few minutes after Ira arrived. Ari felt his pulse involuntarily leap with excitement.

She greeted everyone before saying to Ari, “Good morning. I really hope that we can find some common ground today.”

He cleared his throat, pretending not to be affected by her. “My position hasn’t changed, Miss LeBlanc.”

“I see.” She switched her purse from one side to the other. “Well, if you will excuse me, I need to speak to Ira before we get started.”

Her perfume attacked his nostrils, casting a spell of seduction. His heartbeat throbbed in his ears. Ari couldn’t seem to tear his gaze away as Natasha made confident strides across the marble floor, her hips swaying gently as she walked.

What is wrong with me?

His pulse skittered alarmingly. Ari was knocked off guard by his response to Natasha. Never had he experienced anything so powerful. None of this made much sense to him. He took a few minutes to gather himself before joining the others in the conference room.

Malcolm surveyed his face a moment before asking, “You all right, son?”

Ari ignored the amused look on his father’s face and nodded. He sat down beside his father and across from Natasha.

She looked up from the document she had been reading just as he took his seat, but she didn’t say a word.

Ira closed the door to the conference room so that they wouldn’t be overheard. “I trust you and Ari slept well, Malcolm.”

“We did,” they responded in unison.

Natasha was the first to speak. “Mr. Alexander, I would like to offer my apologies if I said anything to offend you yesterday. It was not my intent. I had only hoped to offer advice on what should be done in regards to the hotel properties. I never meant to imply that you should rescind your rights to the rest of the estate.”

“Miss LeBlanc, you will find that I am not easily offended,” Malcolm responded. “My son and I are anxious to return home, so we will make this quick. I am not prepared to make a decision today regarding the estate. When I get home, I intend to discuss it with the rest of my family. As soon as we decide what is best for our family and the DNA results are back, I will meet with you and Ira. You will know what we have decided at that time.”

Ari silently noted that Natasha and Ira both looked surprised by his father’s response.

After a moment, Natasha said, “I completely understand.” She pushed away from the table and said, “I look forward to our next meeting. Safe travels to you, Mr. Alexander, and to you, as well, Ari.” She checked her watch. “I have another appointment in an hour, so I really need to get going.”

“I’ll walk you out,” Ari stated as he rose to his feet.

He waited until they were out of the conference room before saying, “It was a pleasure meeting you, Miss LeBlanc.” His heartbeat throbbed in his ears.

She looked up at him. “Really?”

They halted their steps. “You sound surprised.”

“I am, because that’s not the impression I got from you.”

He was struck speechless for a moment.

Natasha flashed him a quick smile. “Ari, I really hope you enjoyed your brief stay, but I’m sure you’re very anxious to get back to your family.” Her eyes traveled down to his left hand. “I look forward to hearing from your father.”

Ari inhaled her intoxicating fragrance, savoring the light floral scent. “You have a good day, Miss LeBlanc.” He thought he detected a flicker of interest in her intense, warm brown eyes, but it was gone in a flash.

After she was gone, he went into the guest bedroom to grab his overnight tote. Just as he entered the master bedroom to retrieve his father’s garment bag, a woman wearing a maid’s uniform walked in.

“Oh, I’m so sorry,” she said, looking panicked.

Ari smiled. “You’re fine. I just came in to get this.”

When he returned to the conference room, Ira and Malcolm had finished their discussion. Ira was putting documents into his attaché case.

Franklin appeared in the doorway to announce, “The limo is waiting downstairs to take you to the plane. I wish you a safe journey.”

Ari and his father said their goodbyes to Ricardo and to Franklin.

They took the elevator down with Ira.

“Dad, I really don’t think you should sell the hotel properties,” Ari said when they were on their way to the airport. “We are more than capable of successfully managing the chain, despite what Natasha LeBlanc believes.”

“When we get home, we will sit down with the rest of the family to examine all of our options, son. We will make this decision together—the same we have always done.”

Pleased, Ari closed his eyes and settled back against the lush leather seats in the back of the limo. He wished he had seen more of Los Angeles, but there was time. He would be back.

Natasha LeBlanc would just have to accept that he was now a part of her world.

“Mr. Chase, these are the primary areas found to be in need of attention,” Natasha began. “Inefficient service provided by undertrained and insufficient numbers of staff, poor levels of communication between management and ground staff, standard rooms and suites needing work, and the sports facilities were often unavailable due to an outdated booking system. However, on the positive side, this hotel had excellent food and a loyal sector of repeat customers aged sixty-plus.”

“We have a new employee training program in place, and, of course, retraining will be done by all of the employees,” said Mr. Chase.

“This is a good investment for you, but in order to maximize your dollars, you are going to need to upgrade your rooms—this will increase occupancy.” Natasha paused a moment before continuing. “Mr. Chase, without substantial investment, it is often possible to improve the quality of service just through better staff training and communication skills. Little touches that make a world of difference can be missing.”

She was so glad the meeting had finished on time. Natasha’s day was a busy one, but she was grateful because she needed the money. She had two more appointments before having lunch with a potential client.

Natasha checked her watch. Ari and his father were on the plane by now. The flight was scheduled to depart in the next twenty minutes or so.

Her next two meetings were productive. Natasha was grateful her day seemed to be going well. She left her office and got into her car. She was meeting with the CEO of the Savoy Hotel Group. While driving, Natasha rehearsed her presentation in her head.

Paul Pritzkin was just arriving when she got out of her car. They walked into the restaurant together.

They were seated immediately.

“I’m so glad you could meet with me at this late notice,” Paul told her. “I have to leave this evening for London, and I won’t be back for a couple of weeks.”

“Thank you for calling me,” she said. “I welcome the opportunity to work with your company.”

They made small talk until their food arrived.

Natasha sliced into her entrée. “LeBlanc Consulting experts will help you outperform your local competition, Mr. Pritzkin. We specialize in hotel consulting. Within this small market niche, we offer a complete portfolio of services for the hospitality industry. You can combine the following services or products in order to obtain a package tailored to your specific needs.”

Paul glanced down at the information she had given him. “You also specialize in operator selection?”

“Yes,” Natasha responded. “If you are looking for a hotel group to run a planned or existing hotel, we can assist you with the selection of a suitable operator. We can also advise you with regard to the financial and legal aspects of a management or lease contract.”

Two hours later, Natasha walked out of the restaurant with a check and signed contract. She hummed softly as she made her way to her car.

Natasha drove back to her office, grateful for the new clients she’d picked up today. She was responsible for twelve employees, and the new clients would help with overhead and payroll costs.

Her assistant had left a copy of Hospitality News in her office. On the cover was an article about Robert DePaul’s death and his secret son. The media was predicting an all-out war between the DePaul family and Malcolm Alexander.

For Malcolm’s sake, she prayed it wouldn’t come to that. He seemed like a really nice man. As for Ari…the truth was that she liked Ari, although Natasha was pretty sure he didn’t care much for her.

I probably would’ve tried harder to win him over if he weren’t married. The thought made her laugh. Despite his marital status, she found him compelling, his magnetism potent.

How could I be attracted to this man? Natasha kept repeating he’s married over and over in her head, but it was as if her heart refused to listen. She turned on the television to take her mind off Ari Alexander.

Natasha watched TV for about an hour before calling it a night. Her sister’s engagement dinner was tomorrow night, so she and Joshua would be leaving first thing Saturday morning. Natasha was looking forward to seeing her family. She really didn’t have anyone she was close to in Los Angeles, so she relished the time spent with her brother or sister.

After a relaxing shower, she slipped into her favorite sleepwear, a Lakers basketball jersey with Kobe Bryant’s number. Natasha was a devoted basketball fan.

Ari drifted into her mind once more, causing her to toss a pillow at the wall in frustration. “Why can’t I stop thinking about you?” she whispered. Natasha didn’t want to think about Ari. He was married, and she respected the boundaries. Her ex-husband had never been faithful. She would never cross that line with a married man.

She wasn’t that type of woman.

Chapter 5

Natasha and Joshua left early Saturday morning, heading to Phoenix for her sister’s engagement dinner.

“I was about to get worried,” her mother told her when they arrived shortly after twelve noon. “I thought you would be here an hour ago.”

“There was a bad accident on the I-10.” Natasha hugged her mother. “It’s so good to see you.”

Joshua hugged his grandmother next. “Where’s Pop?” he asked, referring to his grandfather.

“He’s in the backyard grilling some hot dogs.”

Joshua’s face lit up. “He is?”

Natasha met her mother’s amused gaze and broke into a grin. Her son loved hot dogs, especially grilled hot dogs. “Put your cap on, Joshua.”

The little boy did as he was told then ran off to the back of the house.

“He looks good,” her mother said.

Natasha agreed. “Joshua still tires pretty easily, but he’s much better than before.” She noted a look of sadness on her mother’s face. “The doctor says that he’s a little miracle. Joshua is going to be fine, Mama.”

Corrine Henry had aged some with worry for her grandson—Natasha could see it on her mother’s face. “He’s fine,” she repeated.

They were interrupted by the arrival of her brother, Nathan, and his family.

Natasha was enveloped into a tight bear hug. She laughed and then said, “Boy, you play too much.”

She greeted her sister-in-law with a kiss on the cheek. “Kate, how do you put up with him?”

“My baby loves me,” Nathan responded, wrapping an arm around his wife.

Natasha smiled at the look of happiness on her brother’s face. “Yeah, she does love you. That makes me very happy.”

He embraced her. “You know that I want the same for you.”

She kissed his cheek. “I’m going to check on the children.”

Joshua was in the backyard with his cousins, eating. Her father was sitting at the picnic table with them, talking. He was probably telling them stories of his days as a marine.

Natasha’s eyes traveled the property that ran two acres long. A huge tent had been secured for Natalie’s engagement dinner later that evening. A florist had arrived a few minutes ago with a van loaded with gorgeous arrangements.

Smiling, Natasha walked up to her father. “Hey, Daddy.”

Nathan Sr. stood up and gave her a hug. “Hey, baby girl. How was the drive?”

“It was good,” she responded. “Joshua slept most of the drive down. When he woke up, we sang songs the rest of the way here.”

She stepped out of the way of the workers carrying centerpieces. “The flowers are lovely.”

“I know they cost a lot of money,” her father complained. “This is just the engagement party. I don’t know if my wallet can survive the wedding.”

Natasha laughed. “It won’t be too bad, Daddy. You know Natalie—she’s the sensible one.”

“I also know your mother.” He winked at her.

“I know you’re over there talking about me,” Corrine said, walking toward them. “Your father complaining about that wallet of his again?”

Natasha and her father both cracked up with laughter.

“I need to unpack our clothes for the dinner tonight,” she told her parents. “I’ll be back in a few. Dad, please don’t let Joshua have another hot dog.”

“I’m not going to let the boy starve, Natasha. If he’s hungry, let him eat.”

“Just give him some fruit…please. I’m trying to get him to eat more fruit.”

After eliciting a promise from her father, Natasha headed back inside the house.

Nathan had carried her luggage into the house and to her old bedroom, so all Natasha had to do now was unpack. They were going to be in Phoenix for only one night, so they didn’t bring much.

She hung up her dress and laid out the suit Joshua would be wearing for the dinner this evening.

Natasha freshened up before joining her mother in the kitchen. “What can I do to help?” she asked.

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