Dare by T.A. Foster Read Free Book Online Page A

it?”
    “It’s in the case.”
    I reached below the cabinet and dialed the combination until the case clicked. I lifted the lid, and picked up the dagger delicately.
    “Here.” I placed it in her open palms. “It’s sharp. Be careful.”
    She closed her fingers over the blade. “He gave it all up because he was in love?” She flipped the knife over. There was an inscription on the other side I wanted her to see.
    For whatever reason, the museum displayed the dagger with the embellished side facing up. I thought they were missing the real history of the dagger by displaying it that way.
    “Read it,” I urged her.
    “Garson, let this dagger pierce my heart if you are ever taken from this earth. Yours eternally, Amelia.” Dare looked at me, placing the dagger in my hands.
    I carefully laid it on its velvet resting place, embellished side up.
    “What happened to them? Did they live a long life together? Lots of children? Something happy, right?” Her voice was urgent.
    I shook my head. “I’m afraid not. He was hunted down by a pirate he had double-crossed and killed the next year. Amelia used the dagger to take her own life as she promised. I’d like to think they’re together somewhere.”
    I latched the cabinet and spun the lock underneath.
    “That’s both incredibly romantic and haunting,” she whispered.
    I leaned into her ear. “See? I told you history could be romantic.” I grabbed her hand. “Come on, I’ll show you the town founder’s room next.”
    Twenty minutes later, we returned to the dinner. Dessert was being served. We had a choice of cheesecake or crème brulee. I noticed the museum was pulling out all the culinary stops tonight.
    I felt a pat on my back. “Zac Morgan, festival star, how are you enjoying tonight?” The museum director stopped by our table.
    I tried to turn in my seat.
    “Dinner is wonderful.” Dare smiled at him. “This has been such a special night for the museum.”
    He looked at me, and then Dare again.
    “This is my date, sir, Dare.”
    He took her hand and brought it to his lips. The gesture made me a little uncomfortable.
    “So nice to have you here tonight with us. Will you be at the festival tomorrow?”
    “I’m going to do my best.” She placed her hand in her lap. This girl was refinery at its best. “Everyone in Sullen’s Grove is so appreciative of what the museum is doing. I wanted to thank you.”
    I’d never seen my boss at a loss for words. He stood fixed on her.
    “Thank you, sir.” I coughed. It seemed to bring him back to the moment.
    He slapped me on the back again. “I’ll see you tomorrow, Morgan. Dare, so nice to meet you.”
    “Likewise.”
    He walked to the next couple, but I saw him glance back toward our table.
    “What do you say we cut out a little early?” I nodded at the door. I had had enough stuffy and story time previews. The rest of my weekend, I’d be with these people. There was a beautiful woman sitting next to me, and I wasn’t the only one who had noticed.
    “And miss the stories on the early pottery and blacksmith trades?” She smirked.
    “Can I tear you away?”
    She folded her napkin and placed it next to her plate. “Let’s go.”
    I pulled the chair out for her.
    Her hand slid against my palm, her fingers threading through mine. I liked how sure she was.
    “All right. Let’s get out of here.”
    I led her through the dining room, slapping backs and grinning at board members who paid my salary on our way out. I reminded myself I could spend time tomorrow with them. Tonight I was with a gorgeous woman.
    We walked outside. She flinched at the breeze picking up off the boardwalk.
    “You cold? Here. Take my coat.”
    Before she could protest, I draped my tuxedo jacket over her shoulders.
    “Thanks. It turned chilly all of a sudden.”
    “No problem.” I struggled to find something to talk about. First dates were awkward that way. I didn’t doubt I connected with this girl. I could feel it, but I