Beginnings (Brady Trilogy) (6 page)

T
he table suddenly became quiet. It was one thing to be on Luke’s bad side, but to receive a threat or warning from him was an entirely different matter. Isabel was flabbergasted at how all held their breaths after Luke’s words. He did not raise his voice nor get up from his seat yet they reacted as though he had flipped the table upside down. Even Linda who was always prepared for a smart comeback shut her mouth and looked down at her plate.

Isabel lightly cleared her throat
after a full minute of excruciating silence. “Well I uhh… I better go help Ginger prepare for the auction.” All the men rose as she did. She left the table without another word heading towards the back door when Luke caught up with her. “Did I upset you?”

Her question caught him off guard. “Upset me? Why would you assume that?”

“Because I was rude to your date and caused a scene at your table.” She said through lowered lashes. Her breathing was uneven. Though she hadn’t done anything intentionally she felt an extreme load of guilt.

He gently laughed
feeling relieved he was able to put aside his anger. “It’s not your fault. Magda’s heard and deserved worse from Linda. And as far as Nate goes I’m sorry he made you feel uncomfortable. I’m more disappointed your first event with us is not going how I expected it to.”

“No I’m having a great time Luke. And that’s sweet of you to care.” She smiled. What was it about this man that melted her heart so
much? He was utterly wonderful.

“And try to keep away from Nate he tends to get too comfortable when given a little room. We do business with his grandfather but since he’s too old to appear at these
functions he sends his juvenile grandson instead.”

He kept
searching her brown eyes. She wondered if there was more he wanted to say but he didn’t continue. He left back to their table. Isabel helped Ginger complete the auction and announced she would soon be heading home. She avoided returning to the table as much as possible staying more behind the scenes with Ginger. She wanted to leave to avoid seeing if Luke left with Magda for the remainder of the evening. Luke walked her to valet and waited until her car arrived. She wondered if he thought Nate might follow her out and was silently grateful he was there to ensure this didn’t happen. She said good night and couldn’t wait until Monday morning to see him again.

Every September B. Pentagon held an annual beach bonfire inviting all their local clients. It was Luke’s way of bidding farewell to summer and hyping up his staff for the upcoming holiday projects. With the joyous season around the corner it was going to be a demanding term for everyone. It had been one hell of a profitable year for B. Pentagon and Luke would see to it that the year ended with a big bang.

Isabel arrived early to t
he beach to help Ginger set up before their guests arrived. Living beach front had its bonuses since she was a walking distance away. She took in a deep breath filling her lungs with the salty sea air. She was in paradise. She recalled her second day in town meeting Luke on this same beach and smiled to herself how a brief encounter with a gorgeous stranger had transformed her life immensely. A few hours later she was surrounded by their San Diego executive staff along with multiple clients. Some enjoyed surfing, others lay around on the sand and Luke was engaged in what seemed a very intense volleyball match. The sun had started settling down as Isabel joined others around the fire enjoying a nice glass of Merlot. Not surprised that Luke would provide only the best of wines for his clients. God bless San Diego’s private beaches that legally allowed visitors to indulge in beer and wine.

Isabel
listened quietly as a few carried a casual conversation but occasionally she caught herself more interested in the volleyball game. Especially since Luke had stripped down to just swim shorts that sat dangerously low on his hips, revealing that well defined v-line no sane woman would deny was mouthwatering. His chest was left gloriously bare. He had broad shoulders, a lean torso and rock hard abs. The muscles on his forearms and back that flexed each time he send the ball striking over the net was more than pleasant to see. He high-fived his team members every time they scored. Isabel was fascinated by the Celtic design shamrock tattoo engraved on the back of his left shoulder. Sweat gleamed all the way down his naked back from the high adrenaline he must be feeling. Her mouth went dry and she licked her lips to hydrate them. She hadn’t realized her hungry eyes were taking their full of Luke’s appearance. Had she ever met a man more irresistible? Isabel, so caught in her own day dream of Luke hadn’t noticed when Linda followed her gaze and came to sit next to her.

“Fantasizing about our boss?” Linda teased as she lightly elbowed Isabel back to reality.

Isabel instantly turned cherry tomato red. “What? No I was just.. uhh.. so caught up in their game.” She tried smiling but could tell Linda wasn’t fooled.

“Don’t worry. He’s great to look at isn’t he?” Linda
sighed and sipped her wine as her eyes narrowed on Luke. “I imagine he’s a good lay. Strong muscular arms like that just make me wonder what else he can do. I know I wouldn’t mind finding out. “Linda added as she winked at Isabel and caused her to blush even more. “Too bad I have a strict rule called ‘No Sleeping with the Boss’. Plus I don’t sleep with younger men. He’s twenty-nine and I’m at the fabulous age of thirty-two” Linda laughed and playfully fluffed her hair. “Unfortunately it complicates things. And unfortunately I love my job more than I love sex. Sounds pathetic huh?” She laughed as she indulged in more wine.

“See if it was his younger brother Andrew
, I’d have no choice. That boy is sexy as sin. You’ll meet him soon I’m sure. He’s another replica of Luke. But unlike Luke, Drew doesn’t mind seducing staff or clients.” Linda continued. “Nope not Luke. He’s got his head too deep into this business.”

“People really enjoy working for him don’t they?” Isabel realized. She was completely taken by how cheerfully they all waltzed into the office each morning.

“Well I’ll tell you one thing the man knows how to give a
great Christmas bonus that’s for damn sure. He’s very generous with his pay as well. Not like he doesn’t expect us to earn it but I can’t complain when it comes to that aspect.” Linda nodded her head. “He’s a clever man.”

“How so?”

“Because he made life in the o
ffice so gratifying we prefer working behind our desks than resting at home.” Linda snorted. “He also knew prior to hiring, most of us were single and blood thirsty for a career versus starting a family. This way he gets more dedication from his staff.”

Isabel hadn’t realized
this. No wonder Luke was successful at such a young age. “His grandfather started the business but Luke made it what it is today.” Linda continued. “Business grew rapidly once he was in charge so he kept adding multiple new locations. Soon B. Pentagon was spread all across the nation.”

Guess he’s got brains and
beauty Isabel thought. But this she had figured out by the second week working for him.

“There goes Rick.
Always late to these events.” Linda shook her head like a mother would towards a misbehaved child. “I’m going to go grill him about those PR reports he was supposed to have emailed me yesterday to edit.” And just as quickly as she had appeared, Linda was gone.

Isabel smiled as Linda left. She certainly was a hand full. The woman had
excessive amount of energy unable to stay in one spot for too long. And what was with these people and their blunt conversations. Didn’t any of them think of censoring their thoughts before speaking? Talking about their love lives like it was as casual as exchanging recipes. She wondered if the San Diego air would soon make her as bold as Linda.
Highly doubtful.
She was still thinking about the sassy blonde when Luke, beer in hand, sat next to her.

“Having fun?” he smiled.

Much to her immediate relief, Luke had put his shirt back on. If he sat next to her this close and half naked she was sure to hyperventilate and humiliate herself. “I’m having a great time.” She smiled back. “It’s such a good way for your staff and clients to associate. Was there anything you needed? I can go set up for the barbeque.”

He caught her arm to stop her from rising. “No stay. Everything is where it’s suppo
sed to be. Besides Ginger is beyond compulsive she’s planned everything to the last detail.” Luke laughed.

Isabel had been working for him nearly two months now. It was challenging for Luke to keep his distance but he was constantly drawn to her. Yet he fought every defying thought and kept his relationship with her professional. He refused to make her uncomfortable. Not only did he enjoy working with her but for odd reasons he couldn’t explain he liked knowing she was
safe. Not a day passed by without her radiant smile glowing on her face. Though her eyes still kept their secrets she looked to being better. He had become not only accustomed but addicted to her shy school girl giggle. He liked walking into his office and seeing her there happily working with the rest of his staff. If he couldn’t have a personal friendship with her he’d at least appreciate her from a distance and keep an eye on her. He never wanted to see her vulnerable again.

“Thanks for helping
Ginger out by the way.”

“It’s what you pay me for.
So what’s the story behind your tattoo?” She regretted it as soon as she asked. “Sorry it’s none of my business.” She said instantly.
How more obvious could she make that she’d been sitting there staring at him?
Luke’s lips twisted in an amused smile.

“Don’t be I don’t mind. I got it after I found out Matt was an ex tattoo artist and I asked him to design one for me
a couple of years ago. You see my grandfather had one right here,” He pointed to the inside of his wrist. “So I told Matt to design a similar one for me. I don’t know why I did. I had never planned on getting one before. It was more of a spontaneous spur of the moment thing in honor of my grandfather. Hurts like hell I’ll tell you that.” He grinned.

“Well at least it looks really good.”

His green eyes lingered over hers. “You think so? I’m glad you like it.” he smirked.

Isabel let out a nervous laugh
. She quietly cursed herself.
Way to go making it obvious you were checking him out Isabel
. “So why the Celtic design?”

“I guess because it’s a symbol to
my heritage.” His arm brushed against hers. Her whole body heated from the slightest touch.

“Irish?”
she managed to continue.

“Half.
From my father’s side.” He grinned and watched her eyes light up in amusement. God her eyes were so hypnotically beautiful with long thick lashes. A man could just get lost staring into them. Not a spec of any other color than a solid warm brown. He’d never been one to pay much attention to any woman’s eyes before but Isabel’s were mesmerizing. Reminding himself his thoughts were getting ahead of him, he got up and casually excused himself to go help with the barbeque.

After the
barbeque was served and s’mores devoured, Isabel helped Ginger clean up. The event was over and most had already said their goodbyes and headed home. She finished placing the last of remaining items in Ginger’s trunk, bid her farewell and headed back towards the beach to walk home. Luke noticed and followed her trail.

“Need a lift?” He asked as he caught up with her.
Damnit Brady you can’t even keep your distance for a full hour
.

“No
it’s alright, I actually live really close remember? I walked here.” The ocean winds sent a chill down her back making her shiver.

Luke
frowned and threw his jacket over her shoulders. “Well then the least I can do is walk you home. It’s late and the street lamps don’t give much light.” There was no way in hell he’d watch her walk home alone no matter how close she lived.

Isabel bit back her hesitation once she
realized the beach was darker than expected. The incident in L.A had left her petrified of the dark. She mentally cursed herself for being a coward and began to walk with Luke. A few moments later they were standing outside her mother’s beach house. Both feeling a bit awkward as if it were the end of a first date, they silently hovered around the door. “Thanks for the jacket.” Isabel finally broke the silence as she handed it back to Luke.

“
You’re welcome.” He smiled. “Have a good night Isabel.”

“Good night Luke.” She smiled back and headed up the front steps as Luke left.

The nighttime breeze had enhanced the blissful ocean scents. Luke strolled back with his hands in his pockets enjoying the feel of the cool breeze as it touched his skin. The loud splashes of the deep waves brought a sense of familiar serenity for him. He was half way back when he heard a loud crashing sound and a woman screaming.  He stopped dead in his tracks with impulse blaring at him that the voice belong to only one person.

“Isabel.” He choked.

In an instant he was
flying up the steps towards her door. He flew open her front entrance and ran inside as Isabel came crashing into him. He grabbed her by the shoulders to balance her and an instant chill went down his back when he saw her paled face. “What’s wrong? Are you hurt? What is it?” He feared she might be injured and shuddered from the thought.

“It’s the… it’s the… I just couldn’t…” She struggled to talk. Alarm took over her as she tried to catch her breath and speak to him. Finally after gaining enough
self-control she managed to speak in a loud trembling voice, “RAT… the the rat… it’s a huge rat.” Embarrassment colored her face when all Luke did was stare at her. How could she explain it wasn’t the rat she feared? How did she tell him when she walked inside and heard the slightest of noises she dreaded the thought of someone being inside her house? She’d seen the mouse but it was too late to stop her uncontrollable panic that tends to blur any rational thoughts.

Luke was still holding on to her shoulders tightly. He didn’
t know if he should curse her for scaring him half to death or erupt in laughter. But when he saw the startled look on her face he decided either reaction might frighten her more. Not sure what to say or do next he absent mindedly began stroking his hands up and down her arms. “Ok… umm… well uhh where is it? Do you want to show me?”

“
Over there,” Isabel managed to choke out. Luke looked around but didn’t know exactly where
over there
meant. “I’ll show you.” She quickly added. “The kitchen.”

Luke turned around as Isabel nudged him out of the living room.
It amused him how she followed closely clenching both fists into the back of his t- shirt.

“THERE IT IS” she scream
ed and started pulling Luke’s shirt while strengthening her grip. She wrapped her arms around his waist pressing her front body tightly to his back leaving zero distance between them. He turned hard when he felt her breasts press firmly against his back and took a deep breath for control.

“Sweetheart I can’t catch the bastard if you’re pulling me back.” Luke
gently explained.

“Oh right. Sorry. Wait
, DON’T kill it.” She panicked at the thought of a dead rat in her kitchen and quickly handed Luke an empty jar and towel sitting on the counter. She squealed when Luke managed to grab the rodent from the tail and placed it in the jar. He left and a few moments later appeared with the jar empty.

“I’m guessing you only do well with humans.” He teased when he found her still frightened in the kitchen. “You might want to look around to find the
hole that little guy crawled in from.”