Part One
A New Dawn
Chapter One
Elle rushed down the stairs shouting a ‘seeya’ at her parents as she went to answer the door. She ignored her father’s usual questions about where she was going and when she would be home. After opening the door to her best friend, Bianca, she pulled it firmly shut behind her to avoid the continued questions. She adored her father, Lucas, but his protectiveness wore on her. Being the daughter of a police captain wasn’t always easy.
“Where’s the fire?” Bianca said. Her rounded pretty face broke out in a grin.
“You know what my dad is like. I would have been another fifteen minutes answering his questions.”
Bianca proceeded in her normal effervescent way to tell Elle about the club they were headed to. Elle half listened as Bianca talked about ‘men in uniform’ and ‘shore leave’. Apparently whoever they were had completed training and would be out and about celebrating at ‘The Pines’ a popular club by the beach. How Bianca knew all this information Elle didn’t know or particularly care. As Bianca continued to tell her about the ‘navy boys’, Elle tuned her out. She loved Bianca but sometimes her endless stream of chatter, though endearing, was too much. Instead she let her mind drift to Taylor, the one guy she would like to see out tonight but knew he’d be the last one she would.
“Elle, are you listening?”
“No.” Bianca knocked her playfully with her shoulder.
“Did you see Taylor this morning?”
“How do you know I was thinking about him?”
“You have that glazed over screwed up face look.”
Elle smiled. “No he wasn’t at work today, sick or something. Mum didn’t elaborate and I didn’t ask. His dad worked instead.” Elle sighed and imagined Taylor’s usually olive complexion sallow with sickness and wished she could be the one holding his hand and brushing his chestnut hair from his brow.
“So again you worked for free with your mum for the sole purpose of seeing him and he wasn’t there.”
“You know I don’t mind though. I like working at mum’s shop. Besides I see him at uni.”
“Yeah but he’s with her though isn’t he.”
Elle nodded.
“Was he there on Friday?”
“Yes.”
“Weird.”
Elle shrugged.
Bianca then launched into another monologue about all the hot guys that would be at the club but Elle blocked it out again. She didn’t want anyone else.
For as long as she could remember she’d had a crush on Taylor. The son of her mother’s florist shop delivery driver, Elle had known him forever. When Taylor started working the Saturday shifts for his dad, Elle had volunteered to help her mum. As it also happened they attended the same uni and shared a class together. For the past two years of uni, her secret crush had grown to ridiculous unrequited love. Elle wished she didn’t love him but she also didn’t know how to stop. Whenever he looked at her with his pale blue eyes she melted.
“Elle,” Bianca snapped her back to reality again. She halted Elle with a hand on her arm. “We’re here. You really should pay more attention.” Her voice sounded a little hurt and guilt niggled at Elle.
“Sorry, B.”
“It’s OK. Now let’s see what we can find in here.” Her blonde bob swung as she pulled opened the door and towed Elle along by the arm. Bianca may be considerably shorter than Elle but she always walked at a frenetic pace. Her boundless energy lifted Elle’s spirits and she decided to stop wallowing and have a good time. How could you not with Bianca bouncing around? She smiled and followed her friend to the bar.
Elle glanced around the room as they waited at the packed bar to order. Bianca’s source had been spot on; everywhere she glanced she saw white uniforms and buzz-cuts. As they stepped to take their turn she glanced across the bar and noticed a small group of uniform clad guys. In an instant her eyes locked with pale blue ones. The tall blond stared for a few moments before turning his attention back to his friends.
“What can I get you?” The server behind the bar startled her.
She dragged her eyes away and ordered. While she waited, she flicked her eyes back to find him staring once more. A jolt of electricity shot up her spine and fingered her neck. She couldn’t and didn’t want to look away. His mouth curled into a brief half smirk before returning his attention to his friends again.
With a reluctance she couldn’t fathom, Elle turned, paid and retrieved her drink. As though they had a mind of their own, her eyes flicked back to find him gone. Disappointment caused her to frown. Why do I care if he’s gone?
Shaking it off, Elle followed Bianca through the crowd and they located a high rounded table to place their drinks. Elle watched Bianca scanning the throng obviously, as usual, looking for someone to flirt with.
“Elle, I think I’m in man heaven. Have you seen all the hot guys here?”
“Yeah, I guess.” For some reason she couldn’t understand she only wanted to see one.
Bianca laughed and shook her head. “You are impossible. You need to get over Taylor already.”
“I wish it was that simple.”
“Oh my, Elle, that guy over there is fully checking you out.”
Elle didn’t have to look far to find him. Once again he wore a small smile as though he had a secret he couldn’t tell. He was a little closer to them this time and she realised he was tall, lean and broad shouldered. A good thing for her, as Elle was taller than the average man. What are you doing, Elle? It doesn’t matter how tall he is.
“Elle!”
Turning to Bianca, she tried to keep her face indifferent, encouraging Bianca was never a good idea. They would be over there in a flash if Bianca got a sniff of a chance for an introduction or an opportunity to not only flirt but to push Elle onto some unsuspecting guy. Again endearing but not always wanted.
“Sorry, B, what did you say?”
“Go over and talk to him.”
“Why?”
“He’s cute in that ‘his cheekbones could cut glass’ kind of way.”
“So?’ Elle didn’t want to admit she had already noticed his prominent well defined cheekbones and jaw.
“Too late, he’s gone.”
Sure enough when Elle turned to the spot where he’d been a moment before, he’d vanished again. That niggle of disappointment reared its head once more. What is wrong with me? Elle shrugged, if she encouraged Bianca now, they would be weaving through the crowd before she could blink.
“So have you picked out your victim for tonight?” Elle asked teasing, in the hope of shifting Bianca’s attention.
“Ha Ha, very funny.” She poked out her tongue before returning to her usual verve. “There are far too many to choose from.” She grinned.
“Seriously though, would you really want to hook up with one of these guys? Don’t they go out on ships for long periods of time?”
“I don’t want to marry one, Elle, just have some fun. It wouldn’t hurt you to get in some practice flirting.”
“I’m sure I’d be capable if I needed to.”
Bianca rolled her eyes and went back to perusing the room. Shaking her head at Bianca, Elle glanced around the room again, as though an involuntarily reflex urged her to seek him out. After a couple of quick sweeps of the club, Elle didn’t spot him again. For some reason this bothered her far too much.
One of her favourite songs came on and Elle wanted to dance. This time she dragged Bianca across the room and to the dance floor. Elle got lost in the music, letting the rhythm guide her and everything else drifted away. After several songs they decided they needed a drink, went to the bar and were fortunate to find the table they occupied earlier empty.
Again without conscious thought, Elle swept the club but couldn’t place him amongst the other broad-shouldered uniforms. The fact they all wore the same short haircuts didn’t help either. Controlling the urge to do another sweep, she turned to Bianca, hoping her friend would launch into another long one sided conversation and she didn’t let Elle down. Yet even as she listened her eyes searched the room. What is wrong with me?
Bianca suddenly stopped mid sentence and her mouth gapped. As Elle went to follow the direction of Bianca’s stare a deep voice sounded near her ear.
“Are you looking for me?” Elle stifled a gasp and turned.
Close up he took her breath away. His broad shoulders, the square cut of his jaw and those icy blue eyes almost caused her to wear the same expression that Bianca did.
“No, why would I be?” she said feigning an indifference she didn’t feel. Her heart pounded a rapid beat that she thought could surely be heard over the music, betraying her.
“What’s your name?” he asked with another half grin.
“What’s it to you?” She knew she was being rude and totally out of character but her jumbled mind and erratic heart made it difficult to string a thought together. What made it even more confusing was he was totally not her type.
“Elle!” Bianca said with a frown, a rare occurrence for her. “I’m Bianca.” Now she smiles.
“Nice to meet you, Bianca.”
In a flash she came around the table and stood next to Elle.
“This is Elle,” Bianca said and gave Elle a little shove.
“Yes, I caught that.”
This time his smile was full and added a dimple to one cheek. All rational thought flew from Elle’s mind.
“I’m Alexander, Alex.”
Chapter Two
Exhilaration surged through him as they entered the club. Many long weeks of training were finally over and tonight was their first down night since training began. Alex, Pete, his navigator, the man he trusted with his life, Jeremy and Rob weaved their way through a sea of fellow trainees and girls. It seemed the word was out, the navy boys were about and the females had come out in droves.
This evening wasn’t about the girls, though having a bit of fun with one would be welcomed, knowing he would be leaving after six weeks deterred the idea of any attachment. He wasn’t big on one night stands and long distance relationships generally didn’t work from what he’d seen with fellow cadets. Tonight was about celebrating their achievement and graduation until he’d seen her walk in.
He watched her approach on the opposite side of the bar, her stride confident. For several moments he stared as they waited their turn at the bar. It only took a few seconds for him to realise that what he thought was self assurance appeared to be unawareness. She seemed oblivious to the attention and stares of the men around her or the ones she’d passed as she walked across the room. She carried no awkwardness that sometimes accompanied girls with a tall stature as though she’d accepted it and was completely comfortable in her skin.
When she stepped up to the bar her eyes flicked up and he knew he was busted. She neither turned away nor offered encouragement, just held his eyes with hers. From the distance he couldn’t make out the colour but at a guess they appeared green. Deep and dark like pine trees in a forest. Her attention was taken by the bartender and as she turned to him she pulled her dark curly locks away from her ear and neck, leaning forward so as to hear over the blaring music. Her long neck curved elegantly and her hair now over one shoulder was long, almost to her waist. He couldn’t drag his eyes from the curvature of her neck or the way her lips formed words he couldn’t hear.
“See something you like, McAlister?” Pete asked and Alex turned his attention to his friend with reluctance.
“There’s a lot to like here. Nothing in particular.”
He wanted to check, to ensure she hadn’t gone, got lost in the crowd. He wanted to look at her again. Pete continued his banter and Alex answered appropriately, all the while keeping her in his sight out the corner of his eye. He didn’t want to lose sight of her.
Pete became distracted by an attractive blond so Alex seized the opportunity and found her staring at him. Her expression amused him, a mixture of puzzlement and something else that he thought he could be reflecting but couldn’t determine the feeling. He offered a brief grin, amused by their exchange.
After she retrieved her drink, she turned to leave and he knew he didn’t want her to disappear into the crowd.
“I want to take a spin around.”
“I’ll come with you,” Pete said.
With a quick pace, Alex headed around the bar and pushed through as fast as politely possible in the direction he thought she might head. He glanced towards the bar and realised she’d gone. He looked for her dark head above the crowd and spotted her heading towards the high tables in the rear. Finding a spot close enough to observe without being obvious, he stopped and took her in. Her long lean legs clad in tight jeans and boots along with that endless sea of dark curls sent his pulse into overdrive. All he could see of her face was a profile, small delicate features on defined cheekbones and oval face with skin the colour of buttermilk.
The compulsion to talk to her was overwhelming but he was also enjoying their dance, he wanted her to seek him out again, to ensure the look in her eye was an invitation. She didn’t disappoint him and turned, the same shell-shocked expression adorning her pretty face. He offered a small smile again, her apparent confusion was beguiling.
“Where are you going?” Pete asked
“I’ve seen something I like,” he called over his shoulder as he darted into the crowd with the aim of approaching from behind, he didn’t want to scare her off.
When he arrived at the table, they’d disappeared again. He scanned the crowd and the sight of her moving to the music caused pure desire to alight his blood. There was no way he could stay away from her now even if he wanted to. He didn’t want to. Taking a few steps away from the table he waited for her to return.
Her first reaction to his approach amused him further, her ‘whatever’ attitude simply made her more alluring. After he introduced himself her face registered a slight surprise and her mouth almost curved, offering him a taste of what could be to come. The slight tease of her small full mouth urged him to entice another from her lips.
“That’s my brother’s name,” she said before he could continue.
“Then he has a great name.” He smiled but her face remained stoic and the challenge to break her facade became paramount. Learning to fly combat planes was a breeze compared to breaking through her icy facade.
“So you’re in the navy?” Her friend Bianca asked.
“Yes, a naval aviator to be exact.”
“Don’t they have a nickname for them around here, Bianca?” Elle said turning to her friend.
Bianca shrugged.
“Oh yes, I remember, Fly Boys.” She smirked.
His laugh erupted without his control, not only was it rare to hear the nickname, she’d delivered it with a barbed tongue. It seemed she was far more challenging than he thought but if there was anything Alex thrived on it was a challenge. Her frown indicated she wasn’t impressed with his amusement.
“You could say that,” he said, grinning again. Her green eyes flashed and he noticed now he was closer they had an hazel fleck running through them, lightening them, the colour like cut grass in spring. He’d never seen such unusual or beautiful eyes before. If confidence wasn’t one of his virtues he would have melted on the spot. His mind yelled at him to walk away, commitment and the navy don’t mix, yet he couldn’t make his feet move.
“So you fly those fighter plane things from a ship?” Bianca had stepped forward and her voice had taking on a flirtatious tone. Much to his further amusement this seemed to annoy Elle. He hoped this meant he was getting somewhere.
“Amongst other things, yes.”
“Wow.”
Bianca stared at him with an awestruck expression while Elle continued to frown.
“What have you found here?” Pete said arriving just in time. Bianca’s attention immediately turned to his dark haired, blue eyed wingman – he smirked at the reference that had become their obvious joke – had saved him again. Now he could talk to Elle, though at the present moment kissing her was a more appealing option.
“Can I get you a drink?” he asked.
“No, I’m good. So how come you aren’t out on a boat now?”
“I don’t leave for the carrier I’m assigned to for six weeks. We’ve just finished training.”
“How long do you go for?” Her amber-green eyes stared into his. Her manner and attitude screamed back-off but her eyes, they said something else. Alex knew if that he would not be leaving tonight with kissing her, taking her home and arranging to see her again. This he would ensure. His fascination for her perplexed and beguiled him all at once.
“The assignment is for three years.”
What he hoped was disappointment sparked in her eyes. Taking a step forward, he smiled, what he hoped was a softer, more charming smile.
“Then why are you talking to me?” She gasped after the words passed her lips, as though she surprised herself by saying them.
“That is a really good question. We do get furloughs every three months though.”
“It doesn’t matter to me.”
Snap, up it went again. Time to bring that guard down. Closing the gap, he stood close to her now almost touching. He brought a hand up to graze her face with his fingertips.
“I...what are you doing?” Her words were almost a whisper but her eyes didn’t leave his.
“I want to kiss you.”
“You don’t know me.”
“I want to.” He leant in close so their lips almost touched. Her breath caught, surprise mingled with acquiesce on her pretty face compelled him forward and he brushed her lips with his. Her eyes were closed when he pulled back slightly and that was all the invitation he needed.
“Can I take you home?” he asked.
Her heavy eyes open and shined a lighter green, her answer already in them. The nod of her head confirmed it.
Chapter Three
Her head was spinning with confusion when she went to locate Bianca to let her know Alexander wanted to drive her home. His magnetism and charm couldn’t be ignored. What surprised and puzzled her most was she didn’t want to. Elle had gone from being foolishly lovesick over Taylor to being drawn to Alex in an unexplainable way. Her heart fluttered again when she thought of the gentle touch of his fingertips and soft full lips in their briefest of kisses. She wanted more and this is why her head swam.
She found Bianca giggling with Pete at the bar. They’d managed to secure a couple of stools and seemed to be chatting amicably. A stab of caution and concern almost changed her mind; she didn’t want to leave her friend alone. Yet the idea of spending a moment alone with the sexy Alexander alleviated her fear.
As Elle moved through the club, he’d placed a hand on the small of her back, guiding her in an almost protective gesture which sent tingles up her spine. She ignored the warning signals in her head about the perils of getting involved with someone who would have to leave. She quelled this concern quickly by telling herself that she wasn’t getting involved, just enjoying herself, as B was encouraging her to do. Now she just had to tell her rapid beating heart and sweaty palms that.
Elle was unsure about what she would actually say to Bianca with both Alexander and Pete within earshot. She didn’t actually know what she was doing at all. As though reading her thoughts, he struck up a conversation with Pete, distracting him and allowing her privacy with Bianca.
“He asked if he could take me home.”
“Doesn’t he live on a base or something?”
“What? Oh no, I mean drive me home, as in to my house.”
“Oh, well I guess that makes sense, considering that you are...”
“B! Shh, it isn’t like that.”
“Then how is it?”
“I don’t know, he’s...”
“You don’t need to explain. It’s about time you showed some interest in someone else.”
“I’m not interested.”
Bianca snorted. “Yeah right!”
Elle frowned. “Look will you be OK if I go.”
“Um, yes! Stop looking at me like that, I’m not going to do anything...I’m not that bad.” Her pouty expression pricked Elle’s conscious.
“I know, B, I just wanted to make sure you’ll be OK if I go.”
“Yes, go forth and have some fun for once.”
“Thanks, I owe you one.” She kissed Bianca’s cheek before giving her a squeeze.
“Nah you don’t, I’ve done this to you lots of times.”
“True.” Bianca winked.
Alexander guided her out to the street and they walked a few blocks before he stopped in front of a group of cars.
“Didn’t you just finish training?” she asked. His half smile appeared again.
“Yes, advance strike training.”
“I’m not even going to pretend I know what that is.”
“I’ll tell you about it next time I see you.” He winked.
“Very presumptuous of you.”
Alex simply stared and her so she continued. “So how did you have a car on the base or wherever you were and how can you take it when you go on the boat?”
“Carrier.’
“Sorry?”
“Aircraft carrier that is what the ship is called. I grew up here and when training started so I kept my bike at my mum’s. I didn’t have to travel far when I joined which was good.
“Did you say bike, as in motorbike?”
“Yes.”
Behind him stood a large black motorbike which she hadn’t noticed when they first stopped. Her shyness at suddenly being alone with him and the assumption they were walking to a car had meant she’d overlooked it. Thoughts of her father’s reaction stopped her from taking the helmet he’d retrieved from his bike and held out to her.
“You can’t take me home.”
“What is it?” His concern crinkled his brow and worried his pretty eyes.
“My dad will freak if we turn up on that.”
“I’ll be careful.”
“Won’t matter to him, he’ll kill me then you, well, probably just you.” She offered a nervous smile.
“Is he protective?”
“You could say that. It’s a cop thing.”
“I can take a taxi with you if you want and come back and get my bike later.”
Elle didn’t to get a taxi even though she knew what Lucas would say and exactly how he would react. She felt torn, part of her wanted to climb on the back, wrap her arms around him and feel the wind, the exhilaration. The other part knew the consequences. Her hesitation caused him to smile and return the helmet to the bike.
“Why don’t we walk for a bit first?”
“OK.”
With a hand on the small of her back he guided her towards the beach where a path ran along the shoreline towards the pier. Elle suddenly felt shy again yet at the same time comfortable, his confidence was appealing and sexy. Her shyness held her tongue and she searched for something, anything to talk about but couldn’t string a thought together. His self assured presence, his warm hand at her back and his gorgeous face sent her senses flailing. For several moments they walked in silence, though it wasn’t uncomfortable she wondered how long it would remain that way if they didn’t speak. She was starting to think the walk would be a very quiet one if they relied on her to begin.
“So you have a brother, do you have any other siblings?” She breathed a sigh of relief that he’d started conversation.
“Yes, a sister Ashley, they are both younger than me. Being the oldest is good and bad, Dad is super protective and I seem to be on the receiving end but on the other side, I get to take it out on Ash and Alex.”
She felt the heat rise in her cheeks, something that didn’t happen often. For the first time in a long time she cared what someone thought, she cared what he thought and didn’t quite know why.
“I am the youngest of five so I think I can sympathise with your Alex.” He laughed and she felt his gaze on her which further heated her face. “Are you blushing?”
He stopped walking and with a gentle hand on her shoulder turned her to him and stroked her face again.
“Please don’t be embarrassed, I want to learn more about you.”
“OK,” she squeaked.
They started walking again and Elle felt herself begin to relax. Alex seemed nice and for the first time for as long as she could remember she wasn’t thinking about Taylor. Suddenly she didn’t feel the same longing instead she wanted to learn about the man walking beside her, just like he did her. The feeling was new and comforting.
“So the protective cop dad must be difficult.”
“Sometimes, it isn’t just about him being a cop though.”
She turned to him and his pale blue eyes held hers, waiting for her to continue. His interested gaze and apparent kindness put her at ease and before she knew it the words flowed.
“My dad’s parents were murdered when he was seventeen and it affected him a lot. He joined the police force because of it. Then there was the way he met my mum.”
Something in her expression caused him to frown before he led her to a bench and urged her to sit down. His intense and interested gaze was heartening.
“Have you ever heard of a serial killer from twenty years ago they called the ‘spoilt slayer’?”
“I think I saw a documentary about it when I was a teenager. Several girls were murdered and there was a survivor.”
“Yes that’s the one. Well my mum was the survivor, my dad the detective. So it is more than just the protective cop and daughter thing. He’s better now than he used to be. My mum can usually tame the beast so to speak.” She smiled. “Don’t look so worried, Alexander, it was a long time ago.”
“I’m just surprised, it was a big story and here you are to tell it.”
“Anyway, it’s no biggie really but dad goes a little overboard sometimes and a motorbike would get his blood pressure up that is for sure. On the other hand, I would love a ride...”
He grinned and her heart leapt into her throat. The thought of wrapping her arms around him on the back of his bike and kissing him again but not the simple tender kiss like before sent thrills of anticipation through her.
“I want you to take me and you can drop me off around the corner or something and I’ll walk the rest of the way.”
“I’ll walk you home.”
“I’d like that.”
As they strolled back he held his arm out for her and she wrapped hers within in it. The simple gentlemanly gesture touched her.
“Are you studying or working?” he asked.
“Studying, bachelor of arts.”
“Are you an artist?”
“I try to be, I sketch mostly. I would love to illustrate children’s books.”
“I’ve never met an artist before. I would like to see your work one day.”
“I’ve never met a naval aviator before either.”
They shared a smile and then fell into a silence that was comfortable once again. They chatted idly until Elle realised how much time had flown and decided she should go home.
“My dad might send out a patrol car looking for me if I don’t,” she teased.
“You’re in safe hands.”
“I know.” She laughed.
“Oh you were kidding, right?”
“Yeah, he’s not quite that bad.”
The short ride to her house, although cautious and at a slow pace, was exhilarating and when she directed him to stop around the corner her adrenalin rush made her feel giddy.
“That was great. I would love to do that again.”
“Well maybe we can.” He leant back against his bike and studied her face.
“How long before you leave for the carrier,” she said with a smirk.
“Six weeks.”
“Well I’m having a party for my 21st in a couple of weeks, maybe you can come if you want.” The blush crept into her cheeks again. What is wrong with me?
“I was hoping to see you before that, tomorrow maybe?”
She nodded, suddenly breathless at the thought.
Reaching forward, he took her hand and pulled her between his legs, caressing her hair with his other hand. When his lips touched hers his kiss was gentle at first, like before but when she parted her mouth, wanting more, his kiss became passionate and his tongue pressed hers, teasing. His hands buried in her hair before trailing down her back and pulling her tight against him. Her mind went blank when his lips devoured hers. Endless minutes passed and she didn’t want the moment to end.
With reluctance she pulled away, knowing the late hour and she didn’t want to worry her parents. She stood breathless for a moment before whispering, “I really should go.”
He took her hand as they walked to her door and he kissed her softly while they stood on the porch.
“Can I pick you up tomorrow before lunch? We can spend the day together if you want.”
Elle nodded, her words lost in her mind.
“Goodnight, Elle.”
“Goodnight, Alexander.”
Elle turned quickly before she couldn’t fight the urge to kiss him again and entered the house.
“Do you know what time it is?” Lucas’ voice came out of the dim light of the living room causing her to yelp.
“Sorry, Dad, I lost track of time.”
He frowned so she kissed him on the cheek and rushed up the stairs towards her room. This time Ashley startled her when she poked her head out of her room.
“Dad was ready to send out a search party.”
“Yeah I know. I saw him downstairs.”
“Hope it was worth it.”
“It was.”
“What’s his name?”
“What makes you think there is a him?”
“Your face.” She smiled. Her delicate features lit up with the excitement of a good story.
“His name is Alexander.”
A New Dawn
Chapter One
Elle rushed down the stairs shouting a ‘seeya’ at her parents as she went to answer the door. She ignored her father’s usual questions about where she was going and when she would be home. After opening the door to her best friend, Bianca, she pulled it firmly shut behind her to avoid the continued questions. She adored her father, Lucas, but his protectiveness wore on her. Being the daughter of a police captain wasn’t always easy.
“Where’s the fire?” Bianca said. Her rounded pretty face broke out in a grin.
“You know what my dad is like. I would have been another fifteen minutes answering his questions.”
Bianca proceeded in her normal effervescent way to tell Elle about the club they were headed to. Elle half listened as Bianca talked about ‘men in uniform’ and ‘shore leave’. Apparently whoever they were had completed training and would be out and about celebrating at ‘The Pines’ a popular club by the beach. How Bianca knew all this information Elle didn’t know or particularly care. As Bianca continued to tell her about the ‘navy boys’, Elle tuned her out. She loved Bianca but sometimes her endless stream of chatter, though endearing, was too much. Instead she let her mind drift to Taylor, the one guy she would like to see out tonight but knew he’d be the last one she would.
“Elle, are you listening?”
“No.” Bianca knocked her playfully with her shoulder.
“Did you see Taylor this morning?”
“How do you know I was thinking about him?”
“You have that glazed over screwed up face look.”
Elle smiled. “No he wasn’t at work today, sick or something. Mum didn’t elaborate and I didn’t ask. His dad worked instead.” Elle sighed and imagined Taylor’s usually olive complexion sallow with sickness and wished she could be the one holding his hand and brushing his chestnut hair from his brow.
“So again you worked for free with your mum for the sole purpose of seeing him and he wasn’t there.”
“You know I don’t mind though. I like working at mum’s shop. Besides I see him at uni.”
“Yeah but he’s with her though isn’t he.”
Elle nodded.
“Was he there on Friday?”
“Yes.”
“Weird.”
Elle shrugged.
Bianca then launched into another monologue about all the hot guys that would be at the club but Elle blocked it out again. She didn’t want anyone else.
For as long as she could remember she’d had a crush on Taylor. The son of her mother’s florist shop delivery driver, Elle had known him forever. When Taylor started working the Saturday shifts for his dad, Elle had volunteered to help her mum. As it also happened they attended the same uni and shared a class together. For the past two years of uni, her secret crush had grown to ridiculous unrequited love. Elle wished she didn’t love him but she also didn’t know how to stop. Whenever he looked at her with his pale blue eyes she melted.
“Elle,” Bianca snapped her back to reality again. She halted Elle with a hand on her arm. “We’re here. You really should pay more attention.” Her voice sounded a little hurt and guilt niggled at Elle.
“Sorry, B.”
“It’s OK. Now let’s see what we can find in here.” Her blonde bob swung as she pulled opened the door and towed Elle along by the arm. Bianca may be considerably shorter than Elle but she always walked at a frenetic pace. Her boundless energy lifted Elle’s spirits and she decided to stop wallowing and have a good time. How could you not with Bianca bouncing around? She smiled and followed her friend to the bar.
Elle glanced around the room as they waited at the packed bar to order. Bianca’s source had been spot on; everywhere she glanced she saw white uniforms and buzz-cuts. As they stepped to take their turn she glanced across the bar and noticed a small group of uniform clad guys. In an instant her eyes locked with pale blue ones. The tall blond stared for a few moments before turning his attention back to his friends.
“What can I get you?” The server behind the bar startled her.
She dragged her eyes away and ordered. While she waited, she flicked her eyes back to find him staring once more. A jolt of electricity shot up her spine and fingered her neck. She couldn’t and didn’t want to look away. His mouth curled into a brief half smirk before returning his attention to his friends again.
With a reluctance she couldn’t fathom, Elle turned, paid and retrieved her drink. As though they had a mind of their own, her eyes flicked back to find him gone. Disappointment caused her to frown. Why do I care if he’s gone?
Shaking it off, Elle followed Bianca through the crowd and they located a high rounded table to place their drinks. Elle watched Bianca scanning the throng obviously, as usual, looking for someone to flirt with.
“Elle, I think I’m in man heaven. Have you seen all the hot guys here?”
“Yeah, I guess.” For some reason she couldn’t understand she only wanted to see one.
Bianca laughed and shook her head. “You are impossible. You need to get over Taylor already.”
“I wish it was that simple.”
“Oh my, Elle, that guy over there is fully checking you out.”
Elle didn’t have to look far to find him. Once again he wore a small smile as though he had a secret he couldn’t tell. He was a little closer to them this time and she realised he was tall, lean and broad shouldered. A good thing for her, as Elle was taller than the average man. What are you doing, Elle? It doesn’t matter how tall he is.
“Elle!”
Turning to Bianca, she tried to keep her face indifferent, encouraging Bianca was never a good idea. They would be over there in a flash if Bianca got a sniff of a chance for an introduction or an opportunity to not only flirt but to push Elle onto some unsuspecting guy. Again endearing but not always wanted.
“Sorry, B, what did you say?”
“Go over and talk to him.”
“Why?”
“He’s cute in that ‘his cheekbones could cut glass’ kind of way.”
“So?’ Elle didn’t want to admit she had already noticed his prominent well defined cheekbones and jaw.
“Too late, he’s gone.”
Sure enough when Elle turned to the spot where he’d been a moment before, he’d vanished again. That niggle of disappointment reared its head once more. What is wrong with me? Elle shrugged, if she encouraged Bianca now, they would be weaving through the crowd before she could blink.
“So have you picked out your victim for tonight?” Elle asked teasing, in the hope of shifting Bianca’s attention.
“Ha Ha, very funny.” She poked out her tongue before returning to her usual verve. “There are far too many to choose from.” She grinned.
“Seriously though, would you really want to hook up with one of these guys? Don’t they go out on ships for long periods of time?”
“I don’t want to marry one, Elle, just have some fun. It wouldn’t hurt you to get in some practice flirting.”
“I’m sure I’d be capable if I needed to.”
Bianca rolled her eyes and went back to perusing the room. Shaking her head at Bianca, Elle glanced around the room again, as though an involuntarily reflex urged her to seek him out. After a couple of quick sweeps of the club, Elle didn’t spot him again. For some reason this bothered her far too much.
One of her favourite songs came on and Elle wanted to dance. This time she dragged Bianca across the room and to the dance floor. Elle got lost in the music, letting the rhythm guide her and everything else drifted away. After several songs they decided they needed a drink, went to the bar and were fortunate to find the table they occupied earlier empty.
Again without conscious thought, Elle swept the club but couldn’t place him amongst the other broad-shouldered uniforms. The fact they all wore the same short haircuts didn’t help either. Controlling the urge to do another sweep, she turned to Bianca, hoping her friend would launch into another long one sided conversation and she didn’t let Elle down. Yet even as she listened her eyes searched the room. What is wrong with me?
Bianca suddenly stopped mid sentence and her mouth gapped. As Elle went to follow the direction of Bianca’s stare a deep voice sounded near her ear.
“Are you looking for me?” Elle stifled a gasp and turned.
Close up he took her breath away. His broad shoulders, the square cut of his jaw and those icy blue eyes almost caused her to wear the same expression that Bianca did.
“No, why would I be?” she said feigning an indifference she didn’t feel. Her heart pounded a rapid beat that she thought could surely be heard over the music, betraying her.
“What’s your name?” he asked with another half grin.
“What’s it to you?” She knew she was being rude and totally out of character but her jumbled mind and erratic heart made it difficult to string a thought together. What made it even more confusing was he was totally not her type.
“Elle!” Bianca said with a frown, a rare occurrence for her. “I’m Bianca.” Now she smiles.
“Nice to meet you, Bianca.”
In a flash she came around the table and stood next to Elle.
“This is Elle,” Bianca said and gave Elle a little shove.
“Yes, I caught that.”
This time his smile was full and added a dimple to one cheek. All rational thought flew from Elle’s mind.
“I’m Alexander, Alex.”
Chapter Two
Exhilaration surged through him as they entered the club. Many long weeks of training were finally over and tonight was their first down night since training began. Alex, Pete, his navigator, the man he trusted with his life, Jeremy and Rob weaved their way through a sea of fellow trainees and girls. It seemed the word was out, the navy boys were about and the females had come out in droves.
This evening wasn’t about the girls, though having a bit of fun with one would be welcomed, knowing he would be leaving after six weeks deterred the idea of any attachment. He wasn’t big on one night stands and long distance relationships generally didn’t work from what he’d seen with fellow cadets. Tonight was about celebrating their achievement and graduation until he’d seen her walk in.
He watched her approach on the opposite side of the bar, her stride confident. For several moments he stared as they waited their turn at the bar. It only took a few seconds for him to realise that what he thought was self assurance appeared to be unawareness. She seemed oblivious to the attention and stares of the men around her or the ones she’d passed as she walked across the room. She carried no awkwardness that sometimes accompanied girls with a tall stature as though she’d accepted it and was completely comfortable in her skin.
When she stepped up to the bar her eyes flicked up and he knew he was busted. She neither turned away nor offered encouragement, just held his eyes with hers. From the distance he couldn’t make out the colour but at a guess they appeared green. Deep and dark like pine trees in a forest. Her attention was taken by the bartender and as she turned to him she pulled her dark curly locks away from her ear and neck, leaning forward so as to hear over the blaring music. Her long neck curved elegantly and her hair now over one shoulder was long, almost to her waist. He couldn’t drag his eyes from the curvature of her neck or the way her lips formed words he couldn’t hear.
“See something you like, McAlister?” Pete asked and Alex turned his attention to his friend with reluctance.
“There’s a lot to like here. Nothing in particular.”
He wanted to check, to ensure she hadn’t gone, got lost in the crowd. He wanted to look at her again. Pete continued his banter and Alex answered appropriately, all the while keeping her in his sight out the corner of his eye. He didn’t want to lose sight of her.
Pete became distracted by an attractive blond so Alex seized the opportunity and found her staring at him. Her expression amused him, a mixture of puzzlement and something else that he thought he could be reflecting but couldn’t determine the feeling. He offered a brief grin, amused by their exchange.
After she retrieved her drink, she turned to leave and he knew he didn’t want her to disappear into the crowd.
“I want to take a spin around.”
“I’ll come with you,” Pete said.
With a quick pace, Alex headed around the bar and pushed through as fast as politely possible in the direction he thought she might head. He glanced towards the bar and realised she’d gone. He looked for her dark head above the crowd and spotted her heading towards the high tables in the rear. Finding a spot close enough to observe without being obvious, he stopped and took her in. Her long lean legs clad in tight jeans and boots along with that endless sea of dark curls sent his pulse into overdrive. All he could see of her face was a profile, small delicate features on defined cheekbones and oval face with skin the colour of buttermilk.
The compulsion to talk to her was overwhelming but he was also enjoying their dance, he wanted her to seek him out again, to ensure the look in her eye was an invitation. She didn’t disappoint him and turned, the same shell-shocked expression adorning her pretty face. He offered a small smile again, her apparent confusion was beguiling.
“Where are you going?” Pete asked
“I’ve seen something I like,” he called over his shoulder as he darted into the crowd with the aim of approaching from behind, he didn’t want to scare her off.
When he arrived at the table, they’d disappeared again. He scanned the crowd and the sight of her moving to the music caused pure desire to alight his blood. There was no way he could stay away from her now even if he wanted to. He didn’t want to. Taking a few steps away from the table he waited for her to return.
Her first reaction to his approach amused him further, her ‘whatever’ attitude simply made her more alluring. After he introduced himself her face registered a slight surprise and her mouth almost curved, offering him a taste of what could be to come. The slight tease of her small full mouth urged him to entice another from her lips.
“That’s my brother’s name,” she said before he could continue.
“Then he has a great name.” He smiled but her face remained stoic and the challenge to break her facade became paramount. Learning to fly combat planes was a breeze compared to breaking through her icy facade.
“So you’re in the navy?” Her friend Bianca asked.
“Yes, a naval aviator to be exact.”
“Don’t they have a nickname for them around here, Bianca?” Elle said turning to her friend.
Bianca shrugged.
“Oh yes, I remember, Fly Boys.” She smirked.
His laugh erupted without his control, not only was it rare to hear the nickname, she’d delivered it with a barbed tongue. It seemed she was far more challenging than he thought but if there was anything Alex thrived on it was a challenge. Her frown indicated she wasn’t impressed with his amusement.
“You could say that,” he said, grinning again. Her green eyes flashed and he noticed now he was closer they had an hazel fleck running through them, lightening them, the colour like cut grass in spring. He’d never seen such unusual or beautiful eyes before. If confidence wasn’t one of his virtues he would have melted on the spot. His mind yelled at him to walk away, commitment and the navy don’t mix, yet he couldn’t make his feet move.
“So you fly those fighter plane things from a ship?” Bianca had stepped forward and her voice had taking on a flirtatious tone. Much to his further amusement this seemed to annoy Elle. He hoped this meant he was getting somewhere.
“Amongst other things, yes.”
“Wow.”
Bianca stared at him with an awestruck expression while Elle continued to frown.
“What have you found here?” Pete said arriving just in time. Bianca’s attention immediately turned to his dark haired, blue eyed wingman – he smirked at the reference that had become their obvious joke – had saved him again. Now he could talk to Elle, though at the present moment kissing her was a more appealing option.
“Can I get you a drink?” he asked.
“No, I’m good. So how come you aren’t out on a boat now?”
“I don’t leave for the carrier I’m assigned to for six weeks. We’ve just finished training.”
“How long do you go for?” Her amber-green eyes stared into his. Her manner and attitude screamed back-off but her eyes, they said something else. Alex knew if that he would not be leaving tonight with kissing her, taking her home and arranging to see her again. This he would ensure. His fascination for her perplexed and beguiled him all at once.
“The assignment is for three years.”
What he hoped was disappointment sparked in her eyes. Taking a step forward, he smiled, what he hoped was a softer, more charming smile.
“Then why are you talking to me?” She gasped after the words passed her lips, as though she surprised herself by saying them.
“That is a really good question. We do get furloughs every three months though.”
“It doesn’t matter to me.”
Snap, up it went again. Time to bring that guard down. Closing the gap, he stood close to her now almost touching. He brought a hand up to graze her face with his fingertips.
“I...what are you doing?” Her words were almost a whisper but her eyes didn’t leave his.
“I want to kiss you.”
“You don’t know me.”
“I want to.” He leant in close so their lips almost touched. Her breath caught, surprise mingled with acquiesce on her pretty face compelled him forward and he brushed her lips with his. Her eyes were closed when he pulled back slightly and that was all the invitation he needed.
“Can I take you home?” he asked.
Her heavy eyes open and shined a lighter green, her answer already in them. The nod of her head confirmed it.
Chapter Three
Her head was spinning with confusion when she went to locate Bianca to let her know Alexander wanted to drive her home. His magnetism and charm couldn’t be ignored. What surprised and puzzled her most was she didn’t want to. Elle had gone from being foolishly lovesick over Taylor to being drawn to Alex in an unexplainable way. Her heart fluttered again when she thought of the gentle touch of his fingertips and soft full lips in their briefest of kisses. She wanted more and this is why her head swam.
She found Bianca giggling with Pete at the bar. They’d managed to secure a couple of stools and seemed to be chatting amicably. A stab of caution and concern almost changed her mind; she didn’t want to leave her friend alone. Yet the idea of spending a moment alone with the sexy Alexander alleviated her fear.
As Elle moved through the club, he’d placed a hand on the small of her back, guiding her in an almost protective gesture which sent tingles up her spine. She ignored the warning signals in her head about the perils of getting involved with someone who would have to leave. She quelled this concern quickly by telling herself that she wasn’t getting involved, just enjoying herself, as B was encouraging her to do. Now she just had to tell her rapid beating heart and sweaty palms that.
Elle was unsure about what she would actually say to Bianca with both Alexander and Pete within earshot. She didn’t actually know what she was doing at all. As though reading her thoughts, he struck up a conversation with Pete, distracting him and allowing her privacy with Bianca.
“He asked if he could take me home.”
“Doesn’t he live on a base or something?”
“What? Oh no, I mean drive me home, as in to my house.”
“Oh, well I guess that makes sense, considering that you are...”
“B! Shh, it isn’t like that.”
“Then how is it?”
“I don’t know, he’s...”
“You don’t need to explain. It’s about time you showed some interest in someone else.”
“I’m not interested.”
Bianca snorted. “Yeah right!”
Elle frowned. “Look will you be OK if I go.”
“Um, yes! Stop looking at me like that, I’m not going to do anything...I’m not that bad.” Her pouty expression pricked Elle’s conscious.
“I know, B, I just wanted to make sure you’ll be OK if I go.”
“Yes, go forth and have some fun for once.”
“Thanks, I owe you one.” She kissed Bianca’s cheek before giving her a squeeze.
“Nah you don’t, I’ve done this to you lots of times.”
“True.” Bianca winked.
Alexander guided her out to the street and they walked a few blocks before he stopped in front of a group of cars.
“Didn’t you just finish training?” she asked. His half smile appeared again.
“Yes, advance strike training.”
“I’m not even going to pretend I know what that is.”
“I’ll tell you about it next time I see you.” He winked.
“Very presumptuous of you.”
Alex simply stared and her so she continued. “So how did you have a car on the base or wherever you were and how can you take it when you go on the boat?”
“Carrier.’
“Sorry?”
“Aircraft carrier that is what the ship is called. I grew up here and when training started so I kept my bike at my mum’s. I didn’t have to travel far when I joined which was good.
“Did you say bike, as in motorbike?”
“Yes.”
Behind him stood a large black motorbike which she hadn’t noticed when they first stopped. Her shyness at suddenly being alone with him and the assumption they were walking to a car had meant she’d overlooked it. Thoughts of her father’s reaction stopped her from taking the helmet he’d retrieved from his bike and held out to her.
“You can’t take me home.”
“What is it?” His concern crinkled his brow and worried his pretty eyes.
“My dad will freak if we turn up on that.”
“I’ll be careful.”
“Won’t matter to him, he’ll kill me then you, well, probably just you.” She offered a nervous smile.
“Is he protective?”
“You could say that. It’s a cop thing.”
“I can take a taxi with you if you want and come back and get my bike later.”
Elle didn’t to get a taxi even though she knew what Lucas would say and exactly how he would react. She felt torn, part of her wanted to climb on the back, wrap her arms around him and feel the wind, the exhilaration. The other part knew the consequences. Her hesitation caused him to smile and return the helmet to the bike.
“Why don’t we walk for a bit first?”
“OK.”
With a hand on the small of her back he guided her towards the beach where a path ran along the shoreline towards the pier. Elle suddenly felt shy again yet at the same time comfortable, his confidence was appealing and sexy. Her shyness held her tongue and she searched for something, anything to talk about but couldn’t string a thought together. His self assured presence, his warm hand at her back and his gorgeous face sent her senses flailing. For several moments they walked in silence, though it wasn’t uncomfortable she wondered how long it would remain that way if they didn’t speak. She was starting to think the walk would be a very quiet one if they relied on her to begin.
“So you have a brother, do you have any other siblings?” She breathed a sigh of relief that he’d started conversation.
“Yes, a sister Ashley, they are both younger than me. Being the oldest is good and bad, Dad is super protective and I seem to be on the receiving end but on the other side, I get to take it out on Ash and Alex.”
She felt the heat rise in her cheeks, something that didn’t happen often. For the first time in a long time she cared what someone thought, she cared what he thought and didn’t quite know why.
“I am the youngest of five so I think I can sympathise with your Alex.” He laughed and she felt his gaze on her which further heated her face. “Are you blushing?”
He stopped walking and with a gentle hand on her shoulder turned her to him and stroked her face again.
“Please don’t be embarrassed, I want to learn more about you.”
“OK,” she squeaked.
They started walking again and Elle felt herself begin to relax. Alex seemed nice and for the first time for as long as she could remember she wasn’t thinking about Taylor. Suddenly she didn’t feel the same longing instead she wanted to learn about the man walking beside her, just like he did her. The feeling was new and comforting.
“So the protective cop dad must be difficult.”
“Sometimes, it isn’t just about him being a cop though.”
She turned to him and his pale blue eyes held hers, waiting for her to continue. His interested gaze and apparent kindness put her at ease and before she knew it the words flowed.
“My dad’s parents were murdered when he was seventeen and it affected him a lot. He joined the police force because of it. Then there was the way he met my mum.”
Something in her expression caused him to frown before he led her to a bench and urged her to sit down. His intense and interested gaze was heartening.
“Have you ever heard of a serial killer from twenty years ago they called the ‘spoilt slayer’?”
“I think I saw a documentary about it when I was a teenager. Several girls were murdered and there was a survivor.”
“Yes that’s the one. Well my mum was the survivor, my dad the detective. So it is more than just the protective cop and daughter thing. He’s better now than he used to be. My mum can usually tame the beast so to speak.” She smiled. “Don’t look so worried, Alexander, it was a long time ago.”
“I’m just surprised, it was a big story and here you are to tell it.”
“Anyway, it’s no biggie really but dad goes a little overboard sometimes and a motorbike would get his blood pressure up that is for sure. On the other hand, I would love a ride...”
He grinned and her heart leapt into her throat. The thought of wrapping her arms around him on the back of his bike and kissing him again but not the simple tender kiss like before sent thrills of anticipation through her.
“I want you to take me and you can drop me off around the corner or something and I’ll walk the rest of the way.”
“I’ll walk you home.”
“I’d like that.”
As they strolled back he held his arm out for her and she wrapped hers within in it. The simple gentlemanly gesture touched her.
“Are you studying or working?” he asked.
“Studying, bachelor of arts.”
“Are you an artist?”
“I try to be, I sketch mostly. I would love to illustrate children’s books.”
“I’ve never met an artist before. I would like to see your work one day.”
“I’ve never met a naval aviator before either.”
They shared a smile and then fell into a silence that was comfortable once again. They chatted idly until Elle realised how much time had flown and decided she should go home.
“My dad might send out a patrol car looking for me if I don’t,” she teased.
“You’re in safe hands.”
“I know.” She laughed.
“Oh you were kidding, right?”
“Yeah, he’s not quite that bad.”
The short ride to her house, although cautious and at a slow pace, was exhilarating and when she directed him to stop around the corner her adrenalin rush made her feel giddy.
“That was great. I would love to do that again.”
“Well maybe we can.” He leant back against his bike and studied her face.
“How long before you leave for the carrier,” she said with a smirk.
“Six weeks.”
“Well I’m having a party for my 21st in a couple of weeks, maybe you can come if you want.” The blush crept into her cheeks again. What is wrong with me?
“I was hoping to see you before that, tomorrow maybe?”
She nodded, suddenly breathless at the thought.
Reaching forward, he took her hand and pulled her between his legs, caressing her hair with his other hand. When his lips touched hers his kiss was gentle at first, like before but when she parted her mouth, wanting more, his kiss became passionate and his tongue pressed hers, teasing. His hands buried in her hair before trailing down her back and pulling her tight against him. Her mind went blank when his lips devoured hers. Endless minutes passed and she didn’t want the moment to end.
With reluctance she pulled away, knowing the late hour and she didn’t want to worry her parents. She stood breathless for a moment before whispering, “I really should go.”
He took her hand as they walked to her door and he kissed her softly while they stood on the porch.
“Can I pick you up tomorrow before lunch? We can spend the day together if you want.”
Elle nodded, her words lost in her mind.
“Goodnight, Elle.”
“Goodnight, Alexander.”
Elle turned quickly before she couldn’t fight the urge to kiss him again and entered the house.
“Do you know what time it is?” Lucas’ voice came out of the dim light of the living room causing her to yelp.
“Sorry, Dad, I lost track of time.”
He frowned so she kissed him on the cheek and rushed up the stairs towards her room. This time Ashley startled her when she poked her head out of her room.
“Dad was ready to send out a search party.”
“Yeah I know. I saw him downstairs.”
“Hope it was worth it.”
“It was.”
“What’s his name?”
“What makes you think there is a him?”
“Your face.” She smiled. Her delicate features lit up with the excitement of a good story.
“His name is Alexander.”
