The Bodyguard Contract by Young Donna

Author:Young, Donna [Young, Donna]
Language: eng
Format: mobi
Tags: Suspense
Publisher: Harlequin
Published: 2011-12-14T01:52:41+00:00

Chapter Nine

Lara ran a hand over one of the twin Louis XV chairs, admiring the silver-white brocade, the heavily carved walnut frame.

Davidenko spared no expense on the decor.

The grand salon boasted of coffered ceilings with custom-made rock crystal chandeliers and an 180 degree view of Las Vegas. Each window stretched from floor to ceiling, their large frames swathed in plum silk drapes. Dark walnut furnishings, with cornflower-blue and eggshell brocade, appeared evenly balanced throughout the living area—all complementing the floor’s checkered granite, sporadic tapestry hangings and a carved walnut fireplace.

The French certainly had a way of making one feel like royalty, she mused. “This is marvelous, darling.”

Every room was monitored by camera and mike. Only the patio and the steam shower were clear.

Lara’s heart sank. She’d have to keep up the charade indefinitely.

Ian stepped behind her and drew her against his chest. “You’re welcome.”

She leaned back, settled her head against his shoulder, heard his heart pounding beneath her ear. Without thinking, she let the comforting rhythm soothe her nerves.

Ian slipped his hand over her belly.

Her breath caught, hallowing the curve beneath his fingers. “Don’t,” she rasped. Forcing a smile, she stepped away.

“Look at the view.” She opened the patio door.

When he followed her out, she turned on him. “Don’t do that again, Ian,” she snapped.

Ian grabbed her arm, pulled her against him. “It was either that or reach for your breast. Which would you prefer?”

“Neither.”

“Lara, are you sure you’re up for this?”

“Yes,” Lara answered, her voice low. She decided not to yank away from his hold. “Just because I don’t want to be groped—”

“It’s all part of the illusion,” Ian warned. “If Davidenko even suspects we’re here for anything but a little gambling and some privacy, we’re dead.”

“The money helped.” Lara rubbed her temple, trying to ease the tension. Lord, she was tired.

“Putting a million dollars into the safe might get his attention, but it won’t get us where we need to be.”

“Which is a private invite,” Lara agreed. “And that still won’t guarantee Novak.”

“You realize if your priest is here, he’s aware you and I are together.”

“Either way, we’re going to have to risk it,” Lara said. “We’re down to twenty-four hours, Ian. We can’t—”

A knock at the door stopped Lara’s reply. Ian loosened his hold and they both reentered the suite. With a simple nod in her direction, Ian opened the door.

A hotel employee stood in the doorway with a cart in front of him. “I have champagne and caviar. Compliments of Mr. Davidenko. May I come in, sir?”

“By all means.” Ian’s smile didn’t quite reach his eyes.

The servant placed the tray and bucket on the nearby coffee table. “Mr. Davidenko is hosting a small cocktail party tonight in his suite. If possible, he would like you and Miss Mercer to come.” The man opened the champagne. A pop exploded in the room. “Eight o’clock.”

“Tell him we would be delighted,” Lara said with a smile. “Won’t we, darling?”

“Absolutely,” Ian agreed.

“Very good, madam, monsieur.” The man nodded. “My name is François.

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