The Price of Honor by Emilie Rose Read Free Book Online Page A

“Now that I’ve begun watching Grand Prix events on TV with my fiancée, I appreciate Parfums Alexandre’s visible presence.”
    â€œAs you can see from the numbers, we have had a good return on our investments. Our ads reach a target market that can afford our product. You could do the same.”
    â€œI see your point. Grand Prix attendees are the right demographic. I also want to surprise Hannah by helping her horse rescue operation. The best way to do that is through public awareness—an area in which you have expertise. I won’t mention this to her until it’s a done deal, so please keep that information to yourself.”
    â€œCertainly.” Xavier was glad he had educated himself on Hannah Sutherland’s horse rescue operation and therapeutic riding program. “Find Your Center is a worthy cause. The equestrian audience should be both sympathetic and generous.”
    Jacobs sat back in his chair, his eyes shrewd and assessing. “What do you want in return for sharing your knowledge?”
    Xavier appreciated a man who was smart enough toknow nothing came freely and one who got to the point. “I have relocated three of my horses to the Haithcock farm. I need expert riders to exercise and show them, but I have few connections in the States.”
    â€œThat would be Hannah’s area of expertise, but since I doubt she’s going to volunteer information, I’ll introduce you to the stable’s office staff and instruct them to assist you.”
    â€œI would prefer to have Megan back.”
    â€œAh. The real reason for your visit. Megan doesn’t work for me. I can’t order her to ride for you. You’ll have to convince her.”
    He bit back his frustration. “I understand.”
    While he listened to his host, Xavier kept an ear open for signs of Megan’s presence—her voice, her step, her laughter—since one of the barn staff had told him she was with her cousin. But he had yet to see or hear her in the house. He heard steps in the hall and straightened.
    â€œIf you’re listening for Megan she’s not here. That’s why I agreed to meet you today. She and Hannah have gone into town to run some errands—probably a good thing since you’re not on either lady’s list of favorite people at the moment. I’ll probably catch hell for helping you. But their feelings are personal and our discussion is business.”
    The weight settling on Xavier’s chest was not disappointment. He was not mooning after Megan like a schoolboy. “I agree. Megan and I—”
    Wyatt held up a hand. “What’s between you and Megan is none of my concern as long as it’s not illegal.”
    â€œNo. It is not.”
    Jacobs rose and crossed to a bar. “Would you care to sample Triple Crown’s new product? My stepfather started the process for this single malt before his Alzheimer’sbecame an issue. Launching it successfully while he’s still aware of the process is the least I can do for him.”
    If sharing a drink would ensure Jacobs’s cooperation, Xavier would willingly swill pond scum. “Certainly.”
    His host splashed mahogany liquid into two tumblers.
    Xavier accepted one. “Salut.”
    He sipped, letting the aged whiskey roll around on his tongue. Nice. Definitely not pond scum. “Very smooth with hints of smoke, caramel and chocolate.”
    â€œYou have an experienced palate and a good head for business. But let me warn you, Mr. Alexandre. Hurting Megan hurts Hannah. And I won’t tolerate anyone hurting my fiancée.”
    Xavier accepted the warning with a nod. “Understood.”
    He had an ally—albeit a cautious one.
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    Megan’s heart balked when she spotted the tall silhouette against the white rails. She’d recognize those broad shoulders anywhere. “Stop the car.”
    Hannah braked without hesitation.