Hidden in a Whisper by Tracie Peterson Read Free Book Online

stains upon her clothes and, feeling confident of her appearance, raised her gaze to meet that of the new hotel manager.
    â€œBraeden.” She whispered the name almost reverently, but the shock sent a ripple through her body that nearly knocked her backward. Their eyes met, and Rachel found it impossible to draw breath.
    â€œDo you know Mr. Parker?” Jeffery questioned, turning back in surprise.
    Her heart felt as though it had come to a complete stop. For all of her pretenses that the past held no power over her, seeing Braeden Parker standing before her now quickly dispelled that hope.
    â€œI … I …” She could only stammer. There were no words.
    She lost herself in his gaze. He appeared unaffected. Calm, selfassured, not at all surprised by her appearance. His tanned face was more handsome than she’d allowed herself to remember, and when he smiled in greeting, his thick blond moustache moved ever so slightly at the corners.
    â€œMiss Taylor, it’s so nice to see you again.”

   FOUR   
    RACHEL FELT IMMEDIATELY PUT OFF by the smug expression on Braeden’s face. She tensed and looked at Jeffery, as if expecting some form of explanation.
    â€œI had no idea you two knew each other,” Jeffery said, grinning from ear to ear.
    Braeden chuckled, breaking the spell for Rachel. Emotions and longings from the past blended with fears and worries. Why was he here? What could it mean?
    â€œWell, I imagine this will make things much simpler,” Jeffery added.
    â€œDon’t count on it,” Rachel muttered, crossing her arms against her breasts. Her reaction caused everyone in the room to immediately take note. Seeing Braeden here, his countenance suggesting that he knew he’d find her here, as well, caused a spark of anger to ignite within her. She clung to it in hope of ignoring the longing stirred deep within her.
    â€œNo,” Braeden said matter-of-factly. “As I recall, nothing with Miss Taylor is ever simple.”
    â€œPerhaps that was due to the company I kept,” Rachel countered. Her anger gave her strength. She refused to back down, even as the Harvey Girls gathered a little closer. “Mr. Parker has proved difficult to work with in the past. I’m uncertain as to why you would bring him on for something as important as Casa Grande.”
    Jeffery’s confusion was evident in his expression. “Mr. Parker came with the highest of references. His reputation in Chicago precedes him.”
    â€œThat’s putting it mildly,” Rachel said sarcastically. “Though I’m certain there are plenty from that wonderful city to vouch for his, shall we say, many talents. It seems to me that people were always willing to share news of Mr. Parker.”
    Braeden, too, stood his ground. “Yes, indeed, Miss Taylor. And it seemed not to matter much whether those opinions were stated out of fact or fiction.”
    Rachel smiled a tight, fixed smile. “Ultimately we are judged by the fruit which we bear,” she stated.
    By this time even Esmeralda had gotten to her feet to edge her way closer to the trio. Rachel glanced up to see all gazes turned toward them. Jeffery apparently saw this, too, for he reached out and took hold of Rachel’s elbow.
    â€œI would like for us to adjourn to your office, Miss Taylor. There is much to be discussed regarding the resort and the grand opening.”
    Rachel nodded. “That would be perfectly acceptable, Mr. O’Donnell. Allow me to meet you both there. I need to see to my girls and make certain they know their duties.”
    Jeffery dropped his hold. “Very well. Mr. Parker and I will meet you in your office.”
    Rachel refused to look at the men as they departed. Instead, she went immediately to Gwen. “You shall be in charge, Miss Carson. I will expect each station to be spotless when I return.”
    Gwen nodded and her gaze seemed to express sympathy.