A HIGH STAKES SEDUCTION by Jennifer Lewis Read Free Book Online Page A

your parents. I wonder if you can claim the loss on their homeowner’s insurance.”
    “I doubt they have any. Their insurance is faith in God. Even if they did, filing a claim would raise the premium.”
    “If the motel doesn’t offer compensation you could sue.”
    “I’d never do that.”
    “You’re too much like your parents. Living in the wrong century.”
    “I happen to like this century.”
    Lynn laughed. “Okay, okay. So how is it going with John Fairweather? Is he as gorgeous as he looks on the internet?”
    Constance shifted in her chair. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”
    “I know you like to pretend you’re a nun, but I’m sure you can tell whether a man is good-looking or not.”
    “He’s okay looking, I guess.” That stupid smile inched across her lips again. Thank goodness no one was here to see it.
    “So, how old is he?”
    “Early thirties, maybe?”
    “That’s not too old for you.”
    “Lynn! What on earth would make you think he and I have anything in common?” They didn’t. Nothing. She’d thought about it on the drive over here.
    “You’re both human. Both single. And you’re very pretty, Constance, though you do your best to hide it.”
    “Would you stop?” She pushed her glasses up her nose. Was she really pretty enough to attract the interest of John Fairweather? It didn’t seem possible.
    “I’m just excited that you’re away from your parents’ overly watchful and critical gaze. You need to make the most of it.”
    “I’ve been quite busy getting burned out of my motel room and trying to go through the New Dawn’s paperwork.”
    “All work and no play makes—”
    “I’m already dull, and quite happy that way.” At least she had been until last night. Suddenly her mind kept churning with odd ideas. That kiss had started something. She kept thinking about it. Feeling his lips on hers. Feeling his arms around her.
    Obviously she had to make sure that didn’t happen again, but she could kiss someone else, couldn’t she? “Maybe I should join one of those dating services when I get back.”
    “What!” Lynn’s stunned response showed that she’d revealed way too much. Now she couldn’t even remember how she’d led up to that. “You’re finally coming to your senses? It’s him, isn’t it? Those smoldering dark eyes. Those powerful broad shoulders. I know you’re far too principled to be attracted to his money, so it must be his looks.”
    “Nonsense. He’s very intelligent. Nice, too.” She froze, realizing that she’d just proved that she liked him.
    Silence greeted her on the other end. “Really?” said Lynn slowly.
    “Well, I don’t know. I only met him yesterday. He’s probably just being polite so I won’t delve too far into his books.”
    “I wouldn’t blame him. I shouldn’t be kidding around like this, though. He does have a reputation as a lothario. I want you to spread your wings, but don’t fly right into a fox’s den.”
    “One minute you’re encouraging me and the next you’re telling me to back off. It’s lucky I have no interest in anything except the books here.”
    “I can’t believe I suddenly feel like I have to warn you off having an affair with John Fairweather.”
    “I can’t believe it, either.” And I also can’t believe how much I need warning off! “Obviously you’ve forgotten that I’m the same Constance Allen who’s only ever dated one man.”
    “Well, as soon as you get home I’m going to make sure you start dating someone new. When do you get back here, anyway?”
    “It’ll probably take a week or so. The BIA said I can request more time if I need it. It all depends on what I find.”
    “I hope you find something. That’s always good for business.”
    “You’re actually hoping that a crime is in progress?” Constance’s gut clenched at the possibility. “I’m hoping that everything checks out fine. Then I can get out of here as soon as possible.” And preserve what