Take Me As I Am by Erin O'Reilly, JM Dragon Read Free Book Online Page A

someone wanting his approval for a loan. It was a regular occurrence, but to consider actually making a proposal of marriage in that environment had him aroused.
    “Thea, I think it’s time you considered your options in light of the fact that you will receive no further financial backing from any other party,” George said brusquely.
    “I don’t understand.” Thea gave him a startled glance.
    George shifted in his chair and gave her a shrewd glance. “Thea, I know that the insurance company has refused to pay out on your father’s death policy. That was, I’m sure, your final source of finance that could have saved the motel from the bank foreclosing.”
    “How would you possibly know that, Mr. Andrews? I was only informed yesterday,” Thea said angrily.
    George cleared his throat and wiped the perspiration from his face. “That, my dear young lady, is my secret. You should know that word travels fast in this town. So, Thea, how will you pay back the bank now?”
    “How long do I have before you begin foreclosing on the motel?”
    “No time. You are months overdue and had it not been for my good graces, you should have been thrown out months ago.” He mopped his forehead with a stained white handkerchief. “There is a solution to all this, of course.” George focused on her full breasts and his eyes remained there.
    Thea snorted softly in disgust. “What solution would that be, exactly?”
    “Why, my dear, you know of course that I have always thought you a very beautiful woman. I have often asked you out on a date, to which you have always refused. Considering the circumstances, I propose, yes, that’s the correct word,” he looked at her directly, “I propose that if you marry me, the debt will be paid and you may keep the motel in the family, so to speak.”
    “If I refuse?”

    †

    George came unexpectedly quickly around the desk and invaded Thea’s personal space.
    Thea could smell the faint cologne, he used, which in itself wasn’t unpleasant, but with his perspiring body odor, it was repugnant. It made her stomach churn and the meal she’d enjoyed with Joanna threatened to erupt. Joanna. Just the thought of her new friend and protector was the lifeline she needed. A sense of strength filled her as she recalled the earlier words of support.
    “Thea, I can throw you out of here with the click of my fingers. After all, other than that drifter you have staying here, would it matter if the place closed for good? I think not. What would you do then? You have no money, nowhere to stay and no means to earn a living. Except…well, my dear, I would imagine my proposal is a far better a fate than selling your body.” Andrews sneered as his eyes leered at her breasts again.
    “I would never do that! I need time to think about it.” Thea fought the urge to cry. She needed time to think and come up with a plan.
    “As you wish. Join me for a drink and dinner at the bar this evening. I will expect you at eight. It would be in your best interest not to disappoint me.” George reached out a sweaty palm to caress her cheek.
    She flinched at the gesture and noticed the predatory look on his face. “I will meet you at eight this evening and will give you an answer.” Thea swallowed hard to control her anger, fear, and revulsion.
    George walked out of the room without another word.
    Thea, feeling emotionally drained, got up and went to the door that led onto the yard outside. Her mind was in turmoil.
    So, it has finally come to this.
    The only asset left of the Danvers heritage hinged on her decision to marry George Andrews. Her mind and heart rejected the proposal as archaic and outdated, but her sense of family heritage was pleading with her to consider the possibility. Keep it in the family line rebounded in her head. One day she might have children to pass it on to—yeah, right.
    Hot tears began cascading down her cheeks at the abhorrent thought. It wasn’t the children, but who the father might be