Page 30 of Secret Crush

"Except for the threat on your life." She moved nearer to him and even though the garage still had the car engine smell, his nostrils picked up her strawberry scent. "The House of Morgan tempting you back."

He gestured toward the house but she stayed still. John straightened his back. "I left Miami because of Victoria."

Her voice softened. "She's alive."

He nodded. "And I don't know what I'm supposed to do any more."

She came closer. His world went from gray and lifeless to full color. Her brown hair had a shine to it, and her pert lips tempted him. She clearly wasn't affected because she acted angry. "Live. It's what we're all supposed to do. We find a way in the world to give back to our community and shine as the individuals we truly are on the inside."

She was like a big human puzzle. He tilted his head to try to figure her out. "What if I turn out like my father?"

"Impossible."

If John planned on making the money to prove his father wrong, he'd need someone next to him to remind him. A smile spread across his face. No one ever said that with so much conviction. He almost believed her. "Why?"

"'Cause you care too deeply."

His heart did a double beat in that second. "Most people think I'm cold."

She shook her head. "That's because you went into the law where there is black or white, no room for color."

Alice was the most fascinating woman he'd ever met. She must spend her evenings thinking up witty answers, and if so, he hoped she carried the pen in her purse. "Will you come inside now?"

He opened the door and said a silent prayer that she approved of the mansion he had keys for but never saw. From the living areas they could see Key Biscayne and the clear blue bay of Miami. He flipped on the lights and she followed him into his house. "Okay, but John, I can't stay long. I have no idea how I'm going to explain this to my mother."

They weren't in high school anymore. He spun on his heel. "We're adults, Alice."

She sighed and ignored the house. Her stare was on his face, and his entire body lit up from her interest. "I moved home to take care of my father after his heart attack. Now Mom and Dad are moving to the beach. Besides, until I'm married and with children of my own, then there's no excuse with her."

He'd marry her tomorrow if it meant she'd never disappear, but now wasn't the time to say that. Instead he tugged on his ear and went into the kitchen. He'd get wine and help her unwind. "I wish I had your mom."

She rubbed her arms and walked into the living room. The ocean was dark now as evening fell, but tomorrow with the sunshine, life would be good. Alice's smile kept his every attention. She was beautiful in her black dress with the sweetheart neckline that modestly hid her curves.

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