Author's Note: I'm pleased with how many people are reading this story and are actually interested. I've come to notice that most people tend to want fanfics centering on Serena and Darien only. I can understand this because they are the main couple in Sailor Moon and my own personal favorites, but I don't think we should forget their daughter.
Anyway, I wanted to say that I respect those who left me reviews arguing with me over how macho Elios is and how weak Rene is. I guess the only thing I can ask from you readers is to keep a few things in mind: not everything will occur in this story as it appears, and not everything is what it seems. There was a review I received from someone saying this storyline was extremely cliche and she went on to state exactly what would happen in this fanfic and how she saw it ending, Elios having a woman in his past who would come between them and Rene remaining loyal to the brother, etc.
I hate to tell her and others who may agree, but she's wrong.
I don't like making my fanfics cliche and easily predictable. This one will not be, trust me. So if you think your still intrigued enough to continue and willing to be open minded, then please read on and I hope you enjoy!
A Perfect Arrangement
By: SailorPerfect
Chapter 4: A Mysterious Past
Milan, Italy
The night was alive with magic.
The stars blinked and shone against the darkened sky, as if flaring out and casting their own glow alongside the shadow of the moon. The smooth lights illuminated the deep mysteries of the dark, the sun leaving the lingering impression of its vast brilliance on the descending of the night.
Milan was a beautiful city in the sweltering heat of summer, the days filled with brutal heat and the nights a steady flow of soothing warmth. She preferred the night here, basking in the romance of the setting sun, then the magical atmosphere of the moon's night.
But in this moment her life was clearly perfect, with the love of her life at her side.
They stood at the balcony of her uncle's country estate here in Milan, his hand covering hers as they rested them together along the stone railing of the balcony. They stood in silence, admiring the exquisite night and enjoying one another's company as well.
She felt him turn toward her then, meeting his gaze and smiling softly at the familiar love that shone from those sharp, blue eyes. They had met only weeks before, but their love had struck as fiercely and quickly as a bolt of lightening piercing through their hearts, their passion for one another as strong and violent as a storm. She had never believed love could be this potent, a madness that clouded the senses and blinded one to everything but the one person who mattered most in their world.
He took her hands in his, staring down at them, a sudden frown of intense concentration furrowing his brow. Patiently she waited for him to speak, silently admiring how handsome he was underneath the moons glow, his silvery, white hair shining brilliantly, the smooth angles of his face reminding her of fairy tale princes, and how devastatingly beautiful they had been in the days of old. He was breathtaking, this man she loved, and she never tired of teasing him about this, watching in delight as embarrassment took him and caused him to flush at her praise of his stunning looks.
But it wasn't these looks that had caught her attention, it had been the man. He had shown her to laugh, to cry, to become blindingly furious with him one moment, then melt into his arms as passion took them the next. He had taught her the endless possibilities of love, and the riot of emotions that came with it. He had captured her heart where no man ever could.
"Rene, my darling, you know how much I love you. These past weeks with you have been the most cherished of my life." He spoke quietly, his grip on her hands becoming a little firmer, his intense gaze rising to meet hers. "I couldn't imagine a future without you."
She nodded, overcome by his charm and sincerity, as she always was. "Yes, I feel the same way."
"It relieves me to hear that you feel the same." He took a deep breath then, and she was a little stunned to feel that the hands holding hers were not quite steady. Before she could ask him if he was all right he had dropped down to one knee, her hands still held securely in his, those beautiful eyes looking up at her with both love and hope, and just a little fear.
It occurred to her what he was going to ask her, and just as she realized it she could feel the blood draining from her face, her own heart accelerating and thumping like a jack rabbit against her ribs. It seemed everything inside of her came to a crashing halt, as the moment and man of her life knelt before her and prepared to ask her the question she had only ever dreamt of in her dreams.
A choked sob escaped her, tears filling her eyes as he seemed to gather himself. He faltered for a moment at the sight of her tears, but when she smiled, then released a watery laugh of joy, his own grin broke out across his handsome face, the sheer beauty of those features nearly causing her knees to tremble.
"Rene, my love, my life." His voice had become stronger now, relief and pure, unadulterated joy evident as he took from his pocket the ring he had chosen especially for her. "I want you in my future. I want to be able to wake every morning and see you there, lying beside me. Rene Carrington, will you marry me?"
"Oh God, yes!" She could hardly contain herself, and before she had taken a breath she was swept into his embrace, his arms lifting her off the floor as he swirled her among the stars and the romance of Milan.
Yes indeed, this night was alive with magic. And it was for them.
Orange County, California
Present Day
She wondered why the memory of one of the happiest moments in her life would come to her at a time like this.
But in the next moment her mind was wiped clean of any thought at the sight of Elios' smile, a slow, sensual smile curving along those tempting lips as the eyes regarded her with extreme satisfaction. She felt his hands squeeze her hips before he released her, stepping back and extending one arm to her gallantly, offering her the seat at the desk.
Pressed against the desk, she studied him in silent suspicion, wondering if this was meant as a trick. Slowly she moved from the desk, taking her seat and watching as he rounded the desk to take his seat once again.
The man could change moods faster then lightening. It was something she would have to keep in mind.
"I'm very pleased by your decision. You need not worry on any expenses, I will be taking care of all of them." He laced his hands together, placing them atop the desk as he leaned forward, his expression suddenly grim. "However, there are a few matters which you must respect from this moment forward."
Frowning sharply, she narrowed her eyes on him. "What matters exactly?"
"I do not tolerate other men near what belongs to me Miss Carrington. I expect your complete fidelity to me and I warn you now, I won't be as understanding as my little brother was of all these men who seem to worship the very air you breathe."
Her hands gripped the arms of the seat so tightly her knuckles turned white, a thousand insults trembling on her lips as he continued as if what he said was completely normal. "I ask now that you do not speak of marriage to me. I am not a marrying man and do not wish to hear the whining of yet another woman who cannot accept me for who I am." He cocked a brow at the livid fury passing over her exquisite features. "I take it this rule does not suit you. I didn't realize you would fall in love with me so quickly."
She had to take a moment to crush the raging temper that was desperate to lash out at him. His earlier comment of referring to her anger as tantrums had stung more then she cared to admit. Particularly because even she could admit he had been right. "You have an extremely high opinion of yourself."
He tilted his head, studying her with some amusement. "And its quite easy to see how accurate this opinion is by the desire in your expressive eyes."
"Dream on."
He let out a rich, appreciative laugh, unaware how the shift in his superb features caused her to stare in numb fascination. "I have dreamt, since the moment I met you."
Annoyed that this comment sent a ripple of heat through her belly, she leaned forward then and raised a slim brow. "So if there's rules for me, what about you? Does that mean you get to keep screwing around, even while your with me?"
He reached out and trailed a finger along the curve of her hand, smiling when she jerked back at the contact. "Jealousy so soon; I'm flattered. But the answer is no, I will not be 'screwing around,' as you so vulgarly put it. Contrary to what I'm sure you've been told, I'm not a man to toy with women's emotions. I respect them, as much as I would have respected my mother's as well."
"So what would your mother have thought about this little proposition you made to me then?" She sneered at him, pleased when he stilled in surprise.
It took only a moment for him to relax once again, his gaze sharpening, like the fine point of a dangerous blade. "That was beneath you and I hope in the future such a comment is never made again." He seemed to dismiss it then, but the glint remained in his eyes. "Now I must return to the party. My cousin will be very upset with me if I neglect these guests of hers any longer." He rose to his towering height, coming around the desk to take her arm as they walked together to the double doors. "I would like for you to remain and accompany me for the remainder of the evening."
"Is that an order?" She didn't like that he had shifted to being so suddenly generous and calm, especially when she had made that degrading remark to him.
He shook his head, opening the door for her and leading her into the hall. "It was a request."
She still didn't want to spend her time among people who would feign horror and sorrow for her Uncle and Peraru, then drill her for information on the brother. She knew Newport, and she knew that at this moment the room of people they were approaching was completely aware that she and Elios had slipped away from the party together.
"In that case I'll have to decline your offer. I'm tired and I'm not in the mood to put up with people."
He stopped just before they entered the room, standing together, the room full of curious guests next to them. "I understand how you feel. Were I able to, I would accompany you home, but sadly I cannot." He offered his arm to her and she took it with some reluctance, allowing him to lead her through the group of people. She noticed how several women watched him as he walked by, some of these struggling to catch his eye and failing.
They made it to the entrance hall of the estate, where Hotaru stood greeting guests who were still arriving. It seemed Elios was a very, very popular man in Newport and everyone who knew of him came hoping to make his acquaintance.
"Hotaru." Elios spoke from behind her, his darkly exotic cousin turning toward them and smiling. "Miss Carrington is leaving for the night. Could you have my chauffeur bring the car around to convey her home?"
Hotaru nodded quickly. "Of course." She motioned one of her valets over, speaking quickly to him before the young man hurried away. "I had hoped you could stay a bit longer."
"I'm tired and since the business between Mr. Atheros and I is finished, I thought I would go home." She flicked a glance around the room, meeting several eyes that were watching them with curiosity.
"I see. Well your welcome in my home Rene, and I do hope we will meet again."
Rene nodded. "I hope so too."
"Rene." Yaten Gallagher approached them cautiously, keeping one eye trained on Elios, who had narrowed his eyes at the sight of him. "I take it your leaving."
Rene ignored Elios' sharp scowl, instead flashing Yaten a smile. "Yes, I am. Perhaps we could get together someday soon to catch up." She felt Elios tense next to her, secretly pleased she could repay him for some of the things he had said to her.
"That would be great." Yaten finally shifted his eyes beyond Rene and spotted Hotaru, his blue eyes widening slightly. "I'm sorry, I'm being rude. Yaten Gallagher." He offered his hand to Hotaru, his mind wiped clean of any thought at the sight of this beautiful, enchanting creature.
Hotaru flushed, extending her hand and blinking once when Yaten took it and lifted it to his lips instead. "Hotaru Montgomery Atheros. It's a pleasure."
"The pleasure is definitely all mine."
"Here's my chauffeur. Hotaru, if you'll excuse us." Covering Rene's hand with one of his own, Elios led her through the entrance hall and outside, where a sleek rolls Royce had been brought to the front of the estate, a tall, older looking man rounding the car to open the back door for her. She had time to only glance back and see Yaten offering his arm to Hotaru, who took it, as obviously fascinated by him as he was of her.
Elios stopped her at the bottom of the steps, turning to her and taking her hands in his, his grip gentle but firm. "You will no longer be remaining at your estate here in Newport, it has been vacated. I am currently staying at the Hilton and have informed them of your arrival." When she opened her mouth to speak, he cut her off. "Do not worry, your things have been taken to our room there." He leaned forward suddenly and slowly brushed his lips across her cheek, lingering long enough to have her insides curling. "I will join you later tonight, piccola." The promise was delivered in a quiet whisper, before he stepped back and took the heating warmth of his body with him, releasing her and leaving her standing alone on the steps.
Watching him mount the steps, silently cursing her own stupidity and weakness, she turned and walked toward the waiting chauffeur, nodding to the man as he helped her inside then closed the door behind her.
As the car slowly made its way through the streets she couldn't help wondering if this decision had been the best one to make. She had degraded herself in the lowest form by taking his offer and agreeing to become his mistress. She had betrayed the memory of her beloved Peraru by giving herself to the one man who had hurt the love of her life the most.
Even now her mind raced with possibilities, with other options she could take instead of this one. But no matter how hard she tried she couldn't bring herself to think of something that could save her from this arrangement she found herself in.
When she arrived at the hotel she was quickly escorted to her room, the presidential suite in the hotel. It didn't surprise her to find Elios was staying in the most luxurious of accommodations the hotel had to offer. She doubted he had ever accepted anything but the best for himself.
She dismissed the manager of the hotel, who had personally escorted her to the rooms himself and had offered his services in any way necessary to her. She had missed the nearly dreamy look he had been giving her when she had turned away, more preoccupied with what lay ahead of her this night.
How was she possibly going to go through with this? It was a simple matter of agreeing to such a ridiculous situation, but now, as she made her way to the bedroom and stood staring at the huge, king sized bed before her, it was a completely different matter to actually go through with this.
Determined not to be intimidated or frightened by him, she went through her belongings, which had indeed been taken to his rooms, and removed one of her nightgowns, a thin, silk slip that left little to the imagination. Most of her lingerie was like this, due to Peraru's favoring them.
She took a long, hot bath, relaxing in the tub and allowing her mind to mist over with memories of when she and Peraru had enjoyed one another in the Jacuzzi at their home he had purchased in Rome. Those times had been the happiest of her life, when the two of them had been alone together and had luxuriated in the love they'd held for one another.
When the memories became to painful, when tears began to gather in her eyes and burn for release, she left the tub and dried herself off, willing the tears away. She had refused to allow herself any weakness or sorrow since she had cried herself to sleep those first nights, alone in the bed they had shared in Rome. When she had buried Peraru, she had also buried the tears and wrenching grief, knowing if she allowed herself to wallow in self pity she would cease to exist.
Although several times she had hoped for this, even she had known, deep inside, that she was too strong to simply lay down and allow life to slip away. She had been raised well by both her parents, and Andrew.
She slipped into her nightgown, then pulled her robe over this and knotted the middle. She checked the clock next to the bedside, a little annoyed that it was already past one and Elios still hadn't arrived. She had been determined to remain awake until he came and hope to convince him out of this ridiculous arrangement.
She was a little tired though. She could feel the fatigue from the day beating at her temples and eyes, struggling to remain awake despite the late hour. It wouldn't hurt if she laid down for just a moment, just to rest her eyes a bit. After all, the bed was so soft and warm, the pillows so comfortable as she lay down and snuggled into its warmth.
She didn't realize she had fallen into a deep sleep, even when she found herself walking among a thick veil of fog, the cool air of the night causing her to shiver violently. She couldn't see anything, couldn't make out any shapes or forms around her. It seemed she was lost in this sea of mist, as if she had always been and she would never be found.
She heard the footsteps then, soft and muted, but coming directly for her. A thin sliver of fear raced up her spine and she whirled around, the fog swirling like ominous dancing figures about her, thickening and blinding her to her surroundings. She struggled valiantly to see through it, to see if it was the one meant to rescue her from this misery of loneliness, but failed miserably, glimpsing only white frost. She wondered briefly if fog could possibly live, could strike fear into the heart and bring death with it. If it could bring the one who could save her, could it bring the one meant to destroy her?
Terror became a living, breathing being inside of her then, fear coating her throat and choking her with it, preventing her from screaming with fright. She was unable to move, she was unable to run. She could only stand there, waiting, waiting, until the one approaching came to her and revealed who they were.
She saw him then, the tall outline of a man just beyond her sight, standing in the swirling of the dense fog and watching her in silence. One of her hands clutched her throat, and just as she watched one of his own hands reach toward her, she came awake with a start, breathing hard, her body damp with sweat.
"It was a nightmare, piccola, only a nightmare." Her eyes snapped to the corner of the room where Elios sat, his crisp white shirt unbuttoned and loosened at the collar, a drink in his hand. He leaned forward then and studied her intently, frowning at the terror slowly seeping from her features. "I wonder what could cause a woman like you to dream of such a thing."
She had to take a moment, to will the fear still bubbling inside of her away. "How...how long have you been sitting there?"
He stood slowly, striding to the bed and setting his drink on the bedside cabinet. "Long enough. At first I didn't wish to wake you, but after a moment it was clear you were having no peaceful sleep." He reached one hand out, moving her curtain of fiery hair back over one pale shoulder. "You look very beautiful, piccola, your eyes heavy with sleep and your body so warm."
The fear had ebbed considerably, replaced by a rush of liquid fire caused by the mere touch of his fingertips. She could feel him crowding closer, moving to settled himself on the bed behind her, those rough hands swiftly removing the robe she was still wearing, coming back to move in a gentle caress along her bare arms. He murmured something against her shoulder as his lips pressed into the warm flesh, her eyes drifting closed as those hands moved around and cupped the soft weight of her breasts in his hands.
These emotions swamping her could not be described. She had never felt such a swift surrender of sense and reason before, had never thought that desire and passion could transcend into a dark, obsessive lust that clouded the mind and robbed one of all sanity. She could feel the memories of Peraru sliding away from her, like cool water slipping through her fingertips and leaving her fumbling for control. As the hands at her breasts cupped and molded the soft flesh, she felt her heart constricting and suddenly shuddering, as if releasing something...or someone.
Her eyes snapped open then, her breathing irregular, as he curved himself around her, his mouth moving with slow deliberation along her back, his hands holding possessively to her breasts. Even more terrified of what was happening inside of her then she had been during the dream, she wrenched herself from his arms, climbing off the bed and striding to the other side of the room.
She cursed her weakness, she cursed her own stupidity, more then she cursed him. Ashamed by her actions, by her thoughts, she wrapped her arms around herself and struggled to ignore the memory of that tempting mouth, as well as the erotic feel of those expert hands.
She heard him move behind her, tensing when his hands came to rest on her shoulders. "What is it? Did I hurt you?" His voice was soft, concerned, but still so beautiful and captivating.
She despised herself for wanting him for that alone.
"No...no, you didn't hurt me." Slowly, she moved away, forcing him to drop his hands to his sides. "I'm not sure if I can do this."
For the sake of her own sanity, she couldn't do this. He was forcing her to feel emotions she had never felt before, and to question all of the one's she already had. She had only just met him, but she could sense he was dangerous to her, a man she would never be able to control as she had all the others in the past. But more importantly, she would be unable to control herself.
The silence following her admission was thunderous. She waited for the explosion from him, waited for him to throw her out and leave her on the street. She expected he wouldn't tolerate her swift change in mood and fully believed she would now be forced to fend for herself.
He sighed heavily, and when he finally spoke his tone was quiet. "Perhaps I have had my own desire's met too easily by other women. Don't you agree, piccola, that the most important and vital objects in life are to be achieved only through immense patience and care?"
Slowly she turned to face him, a frown crossing her brow. "What? I don't understand-"
He held up one hand. "Do not pay attention to me. I seem to be speaking in riddles this night." He studied her for a moment, then stepped forward and reached one hand out to touch her cheek, his jaw tightening when she trembled at the touch. "You have nothing to fear. I am not a man who has ever enjoyed forcing a woman." He moved closer, so close she could feel the heat of his body, his warm breath on her forehead. His hands took hers, lightly and with no pressure. "I will wait until you come willingly to me."
The quiet words shocked her and she could only stare at him, shaking her head. "But you...you said..."
"Yes, I know what I said." He cocked one brow. "It appears your opinions of me are not quite accurate." A sudden smile blessed his features, full of both arrogance and charm. "And I also know that the wait will not be long."
He was, quite simply, the most arrogant man she had ever met in her life. But although he was vain beyond words, he was also confusing her immensely. She had known of the harsh business man and had already dealt with that aspect of his character. She had been driven to uncontrollable fury by the conceited, proud man beneath the supremely gifted looks.
In this moment she wasn't entirely certain what type of man she was dealing with.
"Come now. Your tired." He urged her to the bed, moving back the covers and allowing her to slide beneath them. "Know that as long as I'm with you, no harm will come to you."
It was odd that his quiet words could actually send a deep sense of relief through her. Only yesterday she had despised this man, had thought the worst of him, and now she felt as if anything he said to her was completely true.
She listened as he moved about the room, listened in silence as he undressed. She could feel herself relaxing into the soft cushions of the bed, could feel herself slowly edging toward sleep once again.
But when the bed gave from his side, she snapped awake, stiffening with unease as he reached out and flipped the switch from the bedside lamp out, casting them in darkness. Laying utterly still, she was unprepared when he reached out and circled her waist with his hand, dragging her across the bed and into contact with his lithe, powerful frame.
"Don't be frightened." He murmured the words against her hair, exhaling softly and curving her more closely to him. "I meant what I told you earlier. Although it will cost me, I will not touch you until you come to me willingly." He slid one hand along her hip, groaning quietly, muttering something in his own language that sounded distinctly like a curse.
It was difficult to sleep with him so close, with the feel of that hard, tempting body pressed so intimately against hers. She didn't think she would be able too, but when she finally slept it was peaceful, and indeed this time no nightmares intruded upon her sleep.
"Its utterly barbaric. I still cannot believe that you, whom I had always considered to be rational, would be seriously proposing such a ludicrous situation to your own brother's fiance." Hotaru merely lifted one dark brow when Elios slid her a look of warning from beneath his lash's. "What? Do you actually think you can frighten me? I've been putting up with your overbearing temper longer then anyone who's known you."
"You referred to Rene still being engaged to my brother in the present tense." Settled behind the desk in his cousin's home, the same office he had used to speak with Rene the night before, he lifted his gaze briefly and allowed it to rest on the dark woman before him. "Peraru is dead."
"So it would seem." Hotaru didn't like how calm he seemed, how totally convinced he was that Rene was to belong to him now. She had never heard Elios sound possessive, even the slightest bit, but the proprietary manner in which he had spoken of Rene had both amazed and worried her.
"You object to my solution."
She ran one hand through her dark hair, pinning him with a deep scowl. "Elios, your solution is crazy! Haven't you heard a single word I've said to you?"
"Of course. I have the highest regard for your opinion Hotaru, I always have." He kept his gaze on the lab top before him, typing swiftly as she paced before him.
"Seiya is an idiot, I've always known that, but you were the one who made him see sense and reason most of the time." She muttered the words beneath her breath, at wit's end. "Where is your sanity now? Did you leave it in Athen's with him before you came?"
"I want her." The words were quiet, simple, but carried all the power and force as if he had raised his voice. "If desire and lust is an insanity, then I am indeed insane."
"You make it sound so romantic." She shot back sarcastically.
"And why isn't it?"
She whirled around, marching to the desk and slapping her hands on the polished wood, seething when he didn't so much as flinch. "There's absolutely nothing romantic in the proposal you made to her. Your treating her like a whore!"
He reacted in an instant, slamming one fist down on the desk with such force she jumped in shock. "Do not call her that!" He shouted the words at her, rising to his towering height, his blue eyes as frigid and sharp as a violent winter storm. "She is no whore!" Beyond control, he strode from behind the desk and began pacing the length of the room, running his hands through his hair as he reverted to Greek in his furious shouting.
"Elios." Hotaru had only seen him lose his temper once before and it had been a sight to behold even then. Elios was known for remaining calm at all times and maintaining his dignity. His father and mother had been very proud of him in this aspect of his character. But once he lost the calm control, he was as dangerous and lethal as a panther, who could strike and defeat its enemies in one mortal blow.
"I would treat her with more respect and more compassion then even Peraru ever could!" He was still shouting in Greek, his hands tightly formed fists at his sides. "Do you think he ever meant any of what he told her? Do you think she ever truly knew the man he was beneath the lies?"
The doors to the study opened slowly, Hotaru watching as Rene entered the room, eyeing his shouting form warily. Before he could continue and reveal more then was necessary, Hotaru stopped him by coming forward to grip his arm. It was as hard as iron. "Elios!" She spoke sharply, ignoring the murderous rage in his eyes. "We have company cousin."
For a moment she thought he would shake her off, like an annoying insect that meant nothing to a raging beast. She felt him struggling for control, felt the muscles beneath her hand vibrating with fury, and was nearly certain he would ignore the other woman who had entered the room and vent the remaining of the seething rage within.
But then he turned those eyes, eyes as icy and savage as the panther she thought of when looking at him, and she watched in utter fascination as the rage slowly withdrew, his entire body relaxing, the harsh lines of his face smoothing into the beautifully handsome features once again.
Hotaru would havenever, ever in her life believed it if she hadn't seen it for herself.
"Piccola." He spoke the single endearment smoothly, holding one hand out when Rene stood where she was at the door, poised and still, watching him with quiet suspicion in her eyes. "I apologize for alarming you. Hotaru and I were just having a discussion."
"It sounded more like an argument to me." She had heard them from the gardens outside, where Elios had left her to admire the beautiful array of flowers and fountains Hotaru had proudly displayed. She'd only heard Hotaru's voice at first, then as she'd neared the room, Elios' booming replies had dominated the silence of the home.
She was curious to know what could cause Elios to shout in such a manner at his cousin.
"Arguments in this family are entirely relative." Hotaru cut in lightly, sending Rene a warm, brilliant smile. "Did you enjoy the gardens?"
She could see that the argument they'd been having was off limits to her. She wondered briefly if Peraru had ever been made to feel like an intruder on matters like these. "Yes, very much. They're very well tended."
"I take care of them when I'm here. When I'm away on business, my personal gardener sees to them. He's the only other person I would trust to see to them." She sensed she had become an intruder herself, and touched her hand briefly to Elios' arm. "I'll leave you two alone then. Elios, make sure you don't leave without telling me goodbye properly first."
"I'll make sure too." When they were alone he came forward and took her hands in his, bending to press a kiss against her cheek. He smiled when he felt her pulse jump beneath his fingertips, pleased by the reaction he caused in her. "Nervous, little one?"
"You wish." She attempted to tug her hands from his, annoyed when he merely tightened his grip. "May I please have my hands back?"
The smile spread slowly, and with such a ruthless charm she was powerless against its appeal. The man had an unbelievable power over her, one that irritated and frightened her. "I enjoy how temper heightens your beauty. I imagine most men have fallen at their knees before you when anger has taken over your features." He released one of her hands and cupped her face instead, allowing his thumb to glide along her hot cheek. "But you know this weakness you produce in men, don't you piccola?"
"Your being ridiculous." She shoved his hand away from her, yanking the other back. She could feel the heat of a blush rising over her cheeks, infuriating her that he could actually cause such a reaction in her when no other man ever had. "You make it sound as if I go around ensnaring men for the hell of it."
He lifted one dark brow. "Your reputation led me to believe as much."
She fumbled with words for a moment, so overtaken with shock and anger she could formulate no response. "My reputation? Who are you to speak of reputations? Your reputed to be Europe's most notorious heartbreaker! I've heard of how careless you are with women's hearts, how you enjoy stepping on them and don't give a damn about the misery you leave behind."
"You seem to be most informed on my actions." He spoke very, very quietly.
The quiet tone should have warned her, but she recklessly ignored it, instead pointing one righteous finger at him. "What kind of man could actually take enjoyment in hurting women? What type of man would force one into an arrangement that completely degrades and insults her?"
He moved with the speed of light, regarding her dispassionately one moment, pinning her against the wall the next, his hands gripping her shoulders brutally. It would occur to her later that she'd had no warning, that she didn't even see him move, until the only sight blurring her vision were his eyes, as cold and savage as a panthers, his features clenched in a furious rage.
"Do you enjoy baiting me? Is it the only form of entertainment you find?" He shook her sharply and with such force she could feel terror rising in her throat, nearly choking her with it. "I warn you that although I have treated you with care and understanding so far, I too have my limits. Push me further and you won't like the methods of punishment I use."
She shook her head, wincing when his hands tightened. "I didn't mean-"
"I know exactly what you meant, and you do as well! I have no need to explain my previous actions to you, nor to be made to feel guilty over them. You know nothing of my past, you know nothing of me!" He caught the pain that flashed through her eyes then, instantly releasing her from his grasp and stepping back, his hands balling into fists at his sides. He cursed harshly in his native tongue beneath his breath, turning away from her and striding to the windows at the far end of the room, keeping his back to her as he took in the sight of the courtyard below outside.
She remained where she was against the wall, watching him carefully. The terror he had caused drained slowly, and with it came shame instead. It was a struggle for her to overcome this resentment she had felt for him for so long, to see beyond the past and to the present man who now stood before her.
But she would have too. He had offered her so much more then she would have ever expected from him, and still to her astonishment had not taken her carelessly last night. It had been the an enormous shock to discover that he would wait for her to come to him, even knowing how much she detested him.
The brief thought gave her pause. Did she detest him? Did she still feel this resentment for him, or was she merely attempting to force herself in feeling anger toward him to keep her resolve from softening?
Her anger, her bitterness at the situation, were the only present defenses she had against him. If she were to let them go, she would be utterly powerless and her own resistance would swiftly crumble. She could remember clearly how intensely her emotions had overtaken her the night before, and how he had frightened her in realizing she had indeed met her match among men.
But even she knew these excuses were her own and did not justify the lashing remarks she had made only moments before.
Taking a deep breath, amazed she would be taking this first step of her own will, she walked to him and placed her hand along his arm. She felt him tense, subtly shifting away from her, but she stubbornly refused to back away now.
"I'm sorry Elios." She spoke the words quietly, her eyes on the rigid outline of his profile. "Your right, everything you said. I have no right to judge you on past events, or even present. Your personal life is your own and none of my business." She blew out a breath, hating herself. Groveling had never come easy for her. "You just get me so mad sometimes."
He turned to face her slowly, those dark eyes searching her face carefully, as if for some hidden trap. "I apologize as well. I should not have made that comment on your reputation either. It was beneath me."
"Yeah well, you weren't too far off the mark." At his questioning look she flushed slightly, twisting her fingers together. "Before Peraru came into my life I wasn't exactly the kindest woman with men's feelings." When he still remained silent, she grew annoyed and threw her head back, meeting his gaze defiantly. "I was careless. They didn't matter to me, no one did."
He stared at her for several long moments, seeming to weigh her words carefully. She wished she could see what he was thinking, but the man knew precisely how to hide his own thoughts with a skill she found she admired. "I will not be one of those men."
The statement caught her off guard, a quick frown crossing her brow. "I never said-"
He took her shoulders in his hands once again, surprising her enough to silence her. This time his grip wasn't brutal, but the barely restrained strength beneath was enough to remind her how much power he truly had. "I know what you said, and now I'm telling you: I will not be one of those men. I will matter to you, more even then my brother did."
She scowled at him. "Now your just being an arrogant idiot."
"But you enjoy my arrogance." He laughed when she shot him a fierce glare, bringing her forward and covering her lips with his in a quick, shocking kiss. "I believe I'm beginning to grow fond of those looks of murderous hatred you give me."
She couldn't prevent her own lips from curving in amusement. "Then I'll have to remember not to give them to you."
"This has much more danger though." He traced her smile with his fingertip, enjoying the sudden tremor that passed through her at his touch. "It seems there is nothing safe about you."
Before she could form a reply there was a brief knock at the door, a chauffeur entering the study. "My apologizes for the interruption Mr. Atheros, but your flight leaves in less then two hours."
"Its fine Henry. Miss Carrington and I will be along in a moment." He turned back to her and encountered her look of disbelief. "Did I forget to mention we would be leaving for Athens today?"
"I...I don't even...Elios! I don't have anything packed!"
"Your things were packed for you last night from your home and sent ahead of us. Everything you need will be there when we arrive." He stroked a hand over her fiery hair, turning away to stride back to the desk and shut down the lab top. "I hope your not too angry with me for making our departure so sudden."
It wasn't anger she felt, but dismay. She would be going back to Europe, to the home he and Peraru had grown from children to men together. Just the knowledge that she would in the same place where Peraru had once been brought on a fresh wave of grief, accompanied to her growing confusion by guilt. The grief she could understand, but the guilt worried her. Why should she felt guilty over living where he had once lived?
"I take it by your silence that I've shocked you." Her eyes flew to his amused expression as he finished packing his lab top into his briefcase and snapped the lid shut. "You've visited Athen's before, haven't you?"
She shook her head. "No, I never made it there." Peraru had refused to go near it.
He had known this of course, but he could see by the expression in her eyes why she never had. "Peraru never returned home after leaving at the age of eighteen."
"What? But why?" She blurted the questions out, immediately regretting them when a shutter descended over his features, effectively shutting her out.
"I have no wish to discuss the past." He rounded the desk and took her elbow, leading her from the room. "Let it remain where it is Rene."
She wanted to ask him so many questions, of why Peraru had never wanted to return, of why he had kept his cousin Hotaru a secret, of why he and Elios had obviously held a strong resentment for one another. But she bit her lip and remained silent, allowing him to lead her down the hall and through the entrance of the home, where Hotaru waited for them outside.
"You act as if your company can't live without you." Hotaru shook her head and laughed when they stood before her. "Your as bad as my brother Elios, all business and no fun."
"Its not my company I can't live without, but my home." He said it so simply, Rene could only stare at him with some surprise. "As for having no fun, Rene will see to it that I am never bored."
Hotaru sniffed at this, shooting him a quick, hostile glare. "I won't comment on that." She came forward and hugged Rene, stepping back to hold her hands in her own. "It was truly a pleasure to meet you. Don't allow this one to mistreat you in anyway."
"He can try." Rene replied haughtily, causing Hotaru to laugh once again.
"Its good to see how strong you are. I won't have to worry about you one bit." She turned to Elios and hugged him as well, despite the anger he knew she was feeling over the situation. "Your stay was much too short." She complained quietly.
He held her to him for a moment, stroking one hand over her dark hair. "The next time you come to Athens. Seiya misses you very much."
She snorted rudely, but Rene could see the tears gathering in her eyes. "He probably doesn't even remember I exist between the business and the women."
"You know better than that." Elios chided softly, his eyes drifting past her at the sight of a sleek, black sports car pulling up to the drive. He frowned sharply at the sight of Yaten Gallagher emerging from the drivers side.
Rene followed his gaze and spotted him, lifting her hand in a wave that Yaten returned even as he approached them.
"What is this? Did he come to see you off?" Elios snarled the words at Rene, moving past Hotaru to block Rene from the other mans path even as he spoke the words.
Rene glared at his back, planting her hands on her hips. "Listen, you jerk-",
"Oh stop it, the both of you." Hotaru flipped her long dark hair over her shoulder, smoothing down the cream colored blouse she wore. She had dressed meticulously that morning, aware the light blouse and dark slacks complimented her figure. "He came to see me."
They both turned to her at the same time, Elios' dark expression shifting to shock, Rene's own anger sliding away to be replaced by amusement. "Wow, you guys didn't waste any time."
Hotaru's smile hinted at just a bit of arrogance, a trait Rene recognized in Elios as well. "He's an interesting man."
"Hhhmmm, interesting is one way to put it." Rene merely smiled at the dark look Elios gave her. "You couldn't have chosen a better one, in my opinion."
Yaten was dressed casually, in jeans and a T-shirt, the simple clothes showing to advantage the lean, tough build he carried. "Good morning." He greeted them cheerfully, but his eyes were on Hotaru alone. "Nice day."
Elios grunted in reply, cupping the back of Rene's neck in a proprietary manner. "Yes, it is. You'll have to excuse us, Rene and I have a flight to catch."
Yaten's brows rose in surprise. "You didn't mention you were leaving last night Rene."
Rene ignored the low warning growl rumbling from Elios' throat. "I'm afraid I am. I'll be in Athen's for some time." It disturbed her just then to realize she had no idea for how long she would be, and more importantly, what would happen to her after. "It was good to see you again Yaten."
"Have a safe trip." He called out to them, watching with some amusement as Elios bundled Rene into the waiting rolls Royce, casting another dark glare at Yaten before folding his long frame into the car and slamming the door behind him. Sliding his tongue along his teeth, he spoke lightly. "He doesn't like me much, does he?"
Hotaru lifted her hand in a wave as the car pulled sedately from the drive. "Elios has discovered he is a possessive man after all." She slipped her hand through his arm, grinning with delight. "I wonder if he realizes just how smitten he already is."
"Smitten? Sweetheart, the guy is sunk."
"You know, I believe a cave man would act with more maturity then you just did." Rene glanced out the back window at the couple, hoping they didn't indeed waste any time. She knew Yaten, and by the look in those bright blue eyes she could see he had already set his mind to the beautifully exotic woman.
"Yes, but you enjoy my more basic 'cave man' tendencies, don't you?" Before she could retort his mobile phone began to ring, distracting him as he answered it. He immediately switched from English to Greek, removing a portfolio from his briefcase as he spoke and beginning to flip through it.
The rest of the drive remained in silence, with Elios speaking first to one person on his mobile, then immediately to another once the connection was cut. Once they arrived at the airport they were rushed through the terminal, to Elios' private concord. The interior of the plane was spacious, with a living area beyond the seating and a kitchen toward the rear of the plane. She was grateful there was a huge plasma television to one side, where she was able to entertain herself while Elios sat at his lab top, answering messages and speaking into his phone as well.
Two hours into the flight she didn't realize she fell asleep, curled on the couch before the television, her head resting back against the cushions. She slept peacefully, with no dreams to interrupt her slumber, until she felt the gentle wings of a butterfly against her cheek, fluttering delicately and bringing a slow smile to her lips.
Were they in the country? Yes, yes that was it. Peraru had surprised her with a picnic, she remembered now, and they had made love in the open fields of the countryside that spread from their home in Rome, the warm breeze like the gentle caress of fingers through her hair. She had fallen asleep in his arms, of course, sated and drowsy from their loving.
The butterfly seemed to murmur against her cheek, tracing a teasing path from her cheekbones to her temple, then back toward the lobe of her ear. A small nip accompanied its fluttering, and a sharp slice raced through her belly, the haze of sleep shifting as a sudden familiar desire curled her insides and a moan escaped from her lips.
She felt the butterfly whisper her name, then speak in quiet Greek. She turned toward the sound, shifting into the gentle caresses that were now arousing her body as she felt a warmth suddenly pressed against her throat.
Her eyes opened slowly, her hazy mind still caught between the world that existed of misty dreams and harsh reality. Her body was already throbbing with a desire that had consumed her as she had slept, leaving her languid and with an insatiable craving that burned just beneath the flesh. It occurred to her she had never felt such volcanic emotions for Peraru, that although he had aroused her, he had never brought her to such heights of desperate longing.
When her eyes finally focused it wasn't the shimmering of the sun that met her gaze overhead, nor the green pastures surrounding her home around her, but the plain white ceiling of an airplane, and the soft cushions of the couch she had fallen asleep on.
And it wasn't Peraru who had awakened her; it wasn't a butterfly who had teased her; it was Elios above her, his lips nuzzling at her throat, his hands moving in a manner meant to arouse and seduce her.
And indeed he had seduced her, while she slept with dreams she had thought were meant for Peraru drifting through her unconscious mind.
"Your an enchanting creature while you sleep." Elios lifted his head to gaze down at her, cupping her cheek in his palm. "I didn't wish to wake you, but we'll be landing very soon."
Disoriented, but unbearably aroused, she struggled to clear her mind of the desire rippling through her traitorous body. She told herself it had been caused by thoughts of Peraru and memories of their loving, but even she knew deep down that it was a weak lie.
"Let me breathe, will you?" She muttered the words, falling back on feigned annoyance to save her from the confusion she was feeling and struggling to hide from him. It was bad enough he knew he had an unbelievable control over her body, she didn't need him to know he was also tangling her emotions into knots.
He moved slightly back, but kept his hands running smoothly up and down her arms. "My mother was the same."
She frowned at him, biting back the angry retort at the easy grin on his face. "Same at what?"
"She was also cranky when she woke from naps." He patted her on the head. "I have plenty of practice with sulky females."
"I'm sure you do." She mumbled, swinging her legs over the side of the couch as he stood back, allowing her room.
"What was that?"
"Nothing. Shouldn't we strap in?"
The landing was very smooth, as well as the pilots and stewardess' farewells to them. They were strolling through the airport swimming with people, their cases being pulled behind them by two security personnel, when Elios' mobile again caught his attention, halting them just a few feet away from the exit of the airport where several cars and taxis stood waiting for occupants to come.
She wandered away from Elios, stepping outside and taking in the commotion around her. It had been a very long time since she had been in an airport in Europe. Well, it had been a very long time since she had been in Europe at all. She had never through to return, knowing the memories that came with it would be too painful.
And yet, here she stood, her purse in one hand as the elder brother of her fiance stood pacing some feet behind her shouting in Greek. She would never have believed this would happen to her, especially to find herself in such a situation.
Two women had stopped to stand next to her, both also Americans and obviously excited to be in Greece for the first time. They were conversing excitedly to one another, until suddenly they halted, each gasping in such shock that Rene turned toward what had caught their attention.
For the first time in her entire life she felt her jaw drop open until she was sure it hit the ground.
A man was walking toward them, a tall man who ranged well over six feet, dressed in jeans and a black T-shirt. He was built solidly, with wide shoulders made only more prominent by the T-shirt he wore, his arms corded with well defined muscles. He was deeply tanned, a bronze that contrasted beautifully with hair as black as midnight that fell straight and just behind his ears. It was short enough to be conservative, but also long enough to be considered slightly reckless, a bit mussed as if he had been running his hands through it.
He looked up then and they were given a full view of his face; the first fleeting thought that drifted through her hazy mind was that he had surely descended from Celtic warriors, with dark brows over eyes that burned blue, almost as if from fever, his cheekbones slashed high over the sharp planes and hollows of his face. The lips were tightened into a straight line, his brows drawing down over his eyes as the sun fell full force over him.
His face was not tame, not in the least, but savagely handsome, almost as if she was truly seeing a Celtic warrior approaching her in the bright, warm day of Greece, dressed in disguise to hide himself among the mortals surrounding him.
She couldn't seem to remember to close her mouth, and hardly realized it when he noticed her as well, halting for a split second in mid stride, before he resumed his approach.
He walked straight to her, stopping to stare down at her for a moment, his hands shoved into the pockets of his jeans. The scowl didn't lift from his eyes, only seemed to deepen as he moved still closer to her, those burning blue eyes taking in every detail as they moved slowly down, then back up to her face once again. It would occur to her later, when she once again had the use of her mind, that his stare could only be considered insolent and rude. "Hello." He spoke the single word in Greek, the rumbling growl of his voice sending shivers down her spine.
She snapped her mouth shut, hardly aware the women next to her were staring in utter envy. "I...ah...I...," she cleared her throat, watching in numb fascination as one of those dark brows rose in question. "Hello." She answered him in the same tongue, relieved she had at least managed to root through her memory and draw up the linguistics she had learned in her years in Europe.
He reached out and took her left hand in his, lifting it to stare down at her ring less fingers. "No rings, no husband." He mused quietly, raising those incredible eyes back to hers. "Are you waiting for your lover?"
"Yes, she is." The dangerous reply came from behind them, spoken with quiet menace as they both turned toward it. Elios stood only two feet away, his own eyes as cold as frost and as savagely sharp as a well honed blade. He moved forward until he and the man stood eye to eye. "Take your hands off her."
For a moment Rene was terrified they would fight, that Elios and this gorgeous man would resort to fists before her eyes. But even as she feared it she watched in confusion as the man suddenly allowed a slow grin to spread over those sensual lips, transforming his wildly handsome features to utterly devastating.
"You always did have the best taste." The man spoke with some amusement, still keeping her hand in his.
"And you never learned when to listen." Elios' gaze narrowed on him. "Hands off."
"As you wish." He released her hand, and in the next second they were grinning at one another, hugging each other hard as Rene watched in growing confusion. "It's good to see you, you bastard."
"Its good to see you too. Its amazing how I become distracted for two minutes and when I turn around your already attempting to take what belongs to me." Elios clapped the man on the back, taking her hand in his and pulling her to his side. "I want you to meet my cousin, Seiya Montgomery Atheros. Seiya, this is Rene Carrington."
Rene stared at the other man, amazed to find this was Hotaru's older brother. Now that she was looking at him more clearly she could see the family resemblance, the exotic, dark looks the two shared, although Hotaru's eyes were dark where her brothers were a stunning, vivid blue.
She watched those eyes darken with an emotion she was unable to understand at the mention of her name. He allowed his gaze to rest on her once again, in silent speculation, but try as she might she could not for the life of her make out any of the thoughts running behind his eyes. He was just as well practiced in shielding his thoughts as Elios, and as easily able to pretend as if nothing was wrong.
He inclined his dark head to her, slipping his hands back into the pockets of his jeans. "Its a pleasure to meet you Rene. I've heard of you of course, through your career as well as..." he trailed off, searching for the right words, "our family connections."
Elios sent him a sharp glare. "Rene will be staying with me now Seiya." He spoke the words mildly, but Rene detected a hint of warning underneath.
Seiya studied his cousin for a moment, a silent communication seeming to pass between them. In that one look she sensed a great secret between the men, something they would hide from her no matter how important her connection had once been with Peraru. And although she had no hope in knowing what could possibly be running through each man's thoughts, deep down she knew it did indeed have to do with Peraru.
But in the next moment the shadow seemed to lift, and they were two ordinary men once again, standing in the bustling heat of the airport. "This is an interesting development." Ignoring Elios' glare, Seiya inclined his head once again. "If you'll follow me, I have the car parked not too far from here."
Confused and becoming annoyed by it, she decided she would question Elios later on his odd cousin, for now allowing Elios to lead her through the throng of people, the both of them following Seiya's silent, tense form.
Stay Tuned for Chapter 5
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