Heir of paradise (Neptune's Daughter)

Anne Weale

Bianca Double No. 518.2

Heir of paradise

(Neptune's Daughter)

Anne Weale

An island in the Caribbean, love and hate in an unexpected reunion

"You invaded a private island. Get out of here! "The

voice of Oliver Thornham sounded firm and authoritative. Acknowledging this,

Laurian felt shudder. He remembered the past, time was the owner of the island

and he the visitor. Now the positions had been reversed. But the moment why so

much expected had arrived. Oliver would pay for evil that he did it in the past!

Just could not let him discover his true identity. Neither the love that brought

hidden in his heart for so long ...

Scanning: Tinna

Review: Renata D.

Copyright 1987 by Anne Weale

Originally published in 1987

& Boon by Mills Ltd., London, England

All rights reserved,

including the right to reproduce all or part, in any form.

This edition is published by agreement with Mills & Boon Ltd.

All characters in this work are fictitious. Any resemblance to persons living or

dead is entirely coincidental.

Original title: Neptune's Daughter

Translation: Silvia Lucia Sardo

Copyright into Portuguese: 1992

EDITOR NEW CULTURAL LTDA.

Avenida Brigadeiro Faria Lima, 2000 -. 3? walk

ZIP code 01452 - So Paulo - SP - Brazil

This work was composed in New Cultural Editora Ltda.

Printing and finishing: Graphic Circle

CHAPTER I

Laurian Bradford decided to take some time off to buy a birthday present for

Susie, the youngest of his adoptive family.

He had a full day, divided between interviews because of the indication of his

name to the year Stylist Award and also of the many steps to ensure that the

progress of the service would not be harmed during his absence.

That night happened dinner in which the Princess of Wales deliver the prize to

the winner of the contest and the next day, after so many years of uninterrupted

work, leave on vacation to a place still unknown. Robert insisted on keeping secret

the name of the place he had chosen. Only warned her not to take too much

luggage. According to him, bathing suits, shorts, T-shirts and an evening gown

would be sufficient.

Knowing of his passion for deep sea fishing, I imagined that fate would be one

of the many Pacific islands or so Seychelles. Regardless of location, Laurian

anticipated pleasure to rest for two weeks, lying in the sun and swimming in warm

and crystal clear waters.

Even at dinner that night the title was awarded to another bidder, the name

Laurian Bradford would be consolidated among the first high fashion of England.

He left his studio in Albermarle Street and went straight to the Hatchards

bookstore in Piccadilly, knowing that nothing would please more to Susie than

some books.

Susie Lingfield was a baby when Laurian, thirteen, arrived in England to study

in a boarding school. And even now, at thirty-four, she trembled as she

remembered this phase of his life, when the difficulties of adolescence worsened

with the desperate homesickness and the death of his father, shortly after his

departure. The anger and hatred by the intruder responsible for all his unhappiness

increased further their sense of loneliness and abandonment.

Gradually the love and security that found in the school doctor's family, who

hosted during the holidays and, later, the struggle to become a respected and well-

known stylist were mitigating negative feelings, resentment and bitterness .

Now, this young tall, slender, of dark brown hair and expressive face, via all

the efforts and dedication rewarded. Become a respected professional, not for

beauty, but its capacity, creativity, remarkable intelligence and personality.

And walking through Mayfair, I thought of Robert Adstock. He wondered as

agreed to spend the holidays next to it, when, in fact, was not sure he wanted a

more serious and intimate commitment, beyond the great friendship that united

them. At the bookstore he separated some books and after writing dedications,

returned them to the seller to provide the Package and shipment to the birthday

girl. Then it went down to the lower level in order to choose their own reading for

the holidays.

As he entered the room, she noticed a tall man, standing at the bar, while the

seller took note of a stack of books. Judging by tanned skin, this was a foreigner.

It was early October and the summer was cold and wet, so that even people with

availability for sunbathing certainly would not have achieved the tan skin tone of

the man. Perhaps it was an Englishman, fresh from a hot and sunny region.

Laurian, motionless, watched the stranger who suddenly turned, wrapping it

with intensity and eloquence of his gray eyes. They stared at each other for a long

time and she immediately remembered a song that talked about a stranger in the

crowd. It was the impression that moment exactly. A deep sense of recognition, a

sudden and inexplicable attraction, as though they had met before. The impact was

so strong that Laurian stopped on the bottom step, staring at him with wide blue

eyes, hoping he spoke to her.

The lips of the unknown curved into a soft smile and, even without saying

anything, left no doubt that the attraction was mutual.

Baffled by his reaction, Laurian looked away and walked quickly toward the

store background, trying to focus on the titles of the books arranged on the shelf,

waiting for your pulse is normalized.

Throughout his career, he met many men, however, except for the affection for

his adopted family and friendship by Robert Adstock, Laurian never been involved

emotionally with someone and always kept his emotions in check.

He knew how to recognize a sensual man, but always from a distant and

impersonal way, never getting to be affected by the charm of anybody. Often he

believed that suffer trauma in adolescence inhibited emotions.

Now considered extremely disconcerting to be dragged into a crazy co m o

this. With much effort, it contained the urge to turn to see if the man was still

there. She did not see him when he walked to the cashier to pay for books bought.

As he climbed the stairs to the ground floor, he remembered that there had

lunch and dine that evening. We decided to eat in a cozy restaurant that was

nearby.

Imagining that the unknown had already left the store, approached the front

door and only when looked up to thank the person who opened the door, he noticed

he had been the author of the act of kindness.

- Oh ... thank you - muttered, between surprised and excited to find him still

waiting. It would be waiting for you or would be much pretension of you imagine

that? Perhaps no more than coincidence.

In order to test it, he pulled into the driveway, looked both ways and then

checked the time on his wristwatch. If the stranger was not waiting for her at this

point, I would have followed his path. At a glance, he realized he was still

standing in front of the bookstore, aware of her movements.

Anxious, Laurian headed to the left, under normal steps, and when he reached

the restaurant saw through the window of the mirror, the image of the unknown

behind him. He came and realized that most of the tables were occupied by

fashionable women, a break between afternoon shopping.

- Table for two? - The maitre d 'asked casually, thinking Laurian was in the

company of the man standing beside him. None of them was concerned to clarify

the misunderstanding. They walked to the indicated table and a waiter came to

serve you. The stranger pushed back his chair to Laurian sit.

- I hope you do not mind to share the table with me. - His accent was English

and not American.

- Absolutely. By now this restaurant is usually packed - she said, smiling.

She put the bag with the books under the chair and straightened his Italian

style bag on the table corner, against the wall. It was part of the new fall

collection. Unlike many designers, itself drew accessories for their models, so that

by buying a dress or a group, women would have no trouble finding the bag and

the proper shoes.

Laurian drew thinking of women like her. Active women, who liked practical

clothes and good quality, but they had no time or willingness to roam shops and

boutiques. The Laurian the label spared this marathon and, though expensive, their

models obeyed the classical style, which represented a long-term investment.

There was only one menu on the table and she studied quickly, though he

knew beforehand what they would ask. Then he handed it to his companion.

While entertained, he chose his plate, Laurian watched the details of his

appearance. Her hair was not gray, but the man looked about forty-four, and his

features seemed very familiar.

If they had met before, surely she would remember, because his face was

remarkable and unforgettable. And few men arrived at forty with a perfect

physique, unless they were professional athletes. But it was not the appropriate

time for a sportsman to be in London. Moreover, I could not imagine a fanatical

sportsman for books.

The stranger was neither an artist. Not a politician. Who would it be? Where

had seen that so expressive face?

The waiter came over and wrote down so requests, Laurian added:

- Separate accounts, please.

When they were alone again, the stranger said,

- You may have noticed that not sat here by chance and also that follow from

the bookstore, right?

His penetrating gaze contained the same magnetism of the first time you

stared. A message left no doubt. The attraction was mutual. Smiling, she shook

her head movement.

- No? - There was a puzzled tone in his voice. - You surprise me. Would

wager that often then every time you step out into the street. What's wrong with

the British men today?

- You is not English? I thought it was.

- Well, I am English by birth but not live here.

Before Laurian had a chance to ask him where he lived, he continued:

- To hear her speak, I thought it was American.

- Really? It's because?

- Beautiful legs ... Hair styling course ... His clothes ... All of you remember an

American, but his accent.

- I say the same about you. His clothes are proper of an American tourist. I

did not notice the shoes yet, but I bet they are also typical ...

Laughing, he stretched his leg, showing the shoe leather, admittedly first-rate,

as indeed the whole dress, which indicated that it was a rich man.

- It seems that both buy our clothes in the United States - he spoke with

conviction. - Go often to the United States? The business or pleasure?

- Business. And you?

- Also. I consider the Americans as my best customers. I own a hotel.

This time it was Laurian who did not hide his surprise. Despite all the charm,

I could not imagine him dealing with guests. There was a touch of defiance in his

face that resembled a limited tolerance for people tiresome or inconvenient.

- I'm intrigued - Laurian admitted. - Have we not met before? In New York,

maybe ... I had this impression from the moment we met at the bookstore.

- I do not think. If he had seen before, never to forget. Unless you were using

a disguise. It's model, by chance?

Laurian became aware that the strong attraction between her and the familiar

face of unknown represent definitive proof that he should not engage in a closer

relationship with Robert. Even when he kissed her, Robert did not arouse the

emotions that caused this man simply sitting in front, looking at her with such

intensity as if to kiss her.

-. I'm not model. I work behind the scenes. Design clothing - he said.

- As talented as beautiful. Why not married - questioned her, noting the

absence of rings on her fingers. - Or is compromised?

- I am committed. - I tried to guess co m the Robert react if you heard his

words. Do not lie, but knew Robert hoped the holidays together from becoming a

honey-moon unofficial. - And you are married? - He asked, recognizing that it

was a nothing original conversation between two people who hardly knew each

other.

- No wife ... Not ex-wives ... Not girlfriends.

At that moment the waiter brought requests and both remained silent.

- In the Library Hatchards - he toasted, so the waiter walked away. - And the

accident that led us there this afternoon - added with a glare in his eyes.

- At Hatchards ... An excellent bookstore - Laurian confirmed.

- Believed to have been the chance ... or fate - he insisted in a serious tone.

- I do not believe in fate. Luck ... Yes! - Laurian replied, beginning to eat his

toast with cheese.

Hunger had felt before had evaporated, but needed an excuse to escape the

insistent gaze.

- I think it's time to introduce ourselves. My name is Oliver Thornham.

Oliver Thornham! A name not heard in many years, but never forgotten ... and

would never forget, even if lived a thousand years. Oliver Thornham ... The man

who departed the island, and then take it from his father.

The shock of finding the man who, seconds ago, seemed to be the embodiment

of all her adolescent dreams and which, deep down, could not turn off, and

suddenly revealed as the person most hated in your life It meant that let go the

cutlery, which fell noisily on the plate.

After a long time, it seemed like more eternity, looked up to face him,

understanding why the thought so familiar, though without recognizing it.

Laurian had twelve when seen him for the first time and their girl's eyes, he

seemed a pirate down the Euphrozyne yacht. And some time later, had acted

exactly like a real pirate.

Oliver looked at her anxious, thinking the stunning and strange silence it had

something to do with the food.

- Something wrong? - He asked.

Laurian shook his head movement. Now, watching him best, had the

impression that unconsciously refused to recognize it, not to remember the man

who deprived him of what he had loved most in life, without the slightest regard

for the pain and suffering caused to her and her Father.

As been fooled, even if only for a few moments, almost succumbing to the

charms of that cold, cruel man?

Oliver Thornham in an attempt to recover the camaraderie, joked:

- Well, if Oliver did not like the name, I have another ... James.

A memory long buried in the Laurian memory came suddenly, like a scene

from an old movie. Revised up a girl, slender body, shaking hands with a stranger,

after reporting her father.

At that time, the only education he received was that Air chie dismissed him

and what he had read in the books sent to the island Bookstore Kingscote Abbey.

And in his childlike innocence, he liked the first name unknown, associating it to

Oliver, one of Charlemagne's knights and friend of the legendary Roland,

murdered in Roncesvalle in the year seven hundred seventy-eight.

But behind the charming and captivating smile, he had proved the antithesis of

the knight who fought to preserve the cavalry honor code.

It was invaded by a wave of anger and, if not turned away quickly, could not

contain an explosion. And that would be too bad, for if someone would recognize

her, cause negative publicity. She opened her purse, took out a note, throwing it on

the table.

- I think it's enough to pay my bill. I ... I just remember an important

appointment. - He pushed the chair, rising to his feet.

- Could you explain me that commitment so important is this?

-. No Please let me pass. - In a gesture instinctively clenched his fists. I knew

that would not leave soon able to attack him physically, such a revolt.

- I'll help you to get a taxi. In fact, I would go with her. - He put his hand in

his pants pocket and took out his wallet.

Laurian wanted to shout, ordering him to keep well away from it. However, to

avoid a scandal, he preferred to show calm and polite:

- Do not worry. I'd rather go alone. Goodbye.

Oliver got up, put up in front of her and holding her wrist, insisted:

- What is your name and your phone number? I need to see her again.

- Let me through! - He repeated, through clenched teeth. He did not release

her until the moment when Laurian said in a cold, loud enough that those closest to

hear:

- Do not be inconvenient, sr. Thornham. The fact that we were forced to

share a table does not mean you should meet him. Absolutely not. I have the habit

of sitting with strangers in restaurants and you're not my type. I clear?

Dozens of faces turned toward them, aware that something strange was

happening. Laurian felt pleased expose him to ridicule. I'd love to give yourself

the pleasure to report in detail the evils of it, but once again held their impulses.

Despite his anger and revolt, he was aware that he had a name and a reputation to

protect.

With great satisfaction, he noticed a lam p ejo of annoyance shine in the gray

eyes of Oliver. The jaw twitched, and releasing her, murmured:

- Very clear. - He walked away to give him passage, slightly bowing his head

in farewell.

Laurian crossed the head-restaurant and air of indifference, as a model on the

catwalk. But at heart, began to crumble.

We were lucky. Once you hit the streets, he saw a taxi that stopped at the first

sign.

- Please, go around the park - instructed the driver. I wanted to make sure that

Oliver Thornham not followed.

- Hyde Park and Green Park, Miss? - The man asked, watching her in the

rearview mirror.

- Oh ... Green Park, then take me to Berkeley Street, please.

Scored hair appointment and knew it would be met even arrived early. It was

a special client, and more crowded the hall was found, there would always be a

place for Laurian sit, a cup of coffee and a magazine. There would not be

disturbed.

He watched the trees through the taxi window, losing himself in memories of

the past, turning suddenly to be the garo ta happy to twelve years old.

- Archie ...? Archie ...? Where are you?

The anxious voice Laurian echoed by Archie Bradford mansion built on his

island in the West Indies. Always treated by Archie, never by Dad. In fact, I was

old enough to be her grandfather, but only in recent years hair and long beard

began to whiten. And with parts of the visible face tanned by the sun, white hair

and blue eyes, just needed a trident and a crown to embody the god of the sea

For this reason, when, years ago, an artist had come to the island and painted

the portrait of Laurian, the waterfront, with her hair falling down her back and legs

hidden by a stone, had named the picture as The Daughter Neptune.

Hanging in the living room, she was the only family portrait was left. The

valuable collection of Archie's ancestors were sold to finance the extravagant way

his father had lived forty to fifty years.

Laurian's mother, Ninette, was his last attempt. An extremely pretty girl, the

daughter of farmers of Martinique, an island of French possession. Archie had

lived with for three years, but had abandoned him, and his daughter, leaving for

New York, a man who had assured her that would make money as a model.

He was not wrong. Ninette Bonnieux become famous and requested

worldwide.

Laurian collected pictures of your beautiful and famous mother, but never met

her in person. Ninette never returned to the island, nor had shown interest in the

child. When Laurian was nine, Archie told her that her mother had died in an

accident. Be depressed for some time, but the tragedy did not come to affect it. It

was very difficult to feel the loss of her mother whom he knew only by photos.

- Archie ... someone is coming!

He found his father on the porch, watching through the telescope the yacht

approached. A yacht built for cruising the oceans in any time.

Archie smiled at her daughter, who looked more like a boy. In an irritation

access and tired of brushing long hair, decided to cut them short, so as not to have

a lot of work to care for them. He was wearing shorts, faded T-shirt and a Swiss

Army knife hanging from his belt. He walked barefoot and the soles of the feet

were hardened by years without shoes. Starting to go through puberty, wider

shoulder to the hips, legs and arms too long and breasts sprouting under his shirt.

- Take a look - the father suggested.

Laurian had to stand on a crate to reach the telescope mounted on a tripod.

When focused on the vessel, he viewed its occupant, who appeared to be tall,

tanned, with long beards like those of his father, but dark.

- It looks like a nice person. Let's go to the beach welcome you - Archie asked

her, stroking her short hair.

They were happy to receive visits. Would do very well to both. Archie

realized that not showed so happy lately, falling into long silences too often,

instead of telling her usual stories. He never tired of hearing the fantastic

adventures of his father, who started at sixteen, when forged documents to join the

Navy at the outbreak of World War II. Since then, his life had been a succession

of adventure, many of whom knew by heart, but still loved to hear him repeat

them.

Perhaps, that night, the unknown stay for dinner, Archie back laughing, eating

and drinking as usual.

A few minutes later, the newcomer landed on the beach, Archie also greeted

and shook the small hand Laurian.

- How are you, Mr. Thornham?

- Well And you, Laurian.?

Despite his isolated life, Laurian was not shy, but something unknown that

made them inhibited. To divert his attention, quickly said:

- What a beautiful boat! What is the name?

- Euphrosyne.

- Do you remember who was Euphrosyne, Laurie? - His father asked. The

Greek myths and legends had replaced the fairy tales in its infancy.

- Of course. It was one of the Three Graces. The others were Thalia and

Aglaia. Thalia was the one who brought the flowers. I do not remember who was

Aglaia, but Euphrosyne was the personification of joy.

As he spoke, Laurian noticed a strange expression, almost a physical pain,

reach Oliver's face. Perhaps I had only imagined facial contraction. By the way,

Archie always said that lately she lived imagining things too and asking frequently

if something worried him.

- What time of Berkeley Street, Miss?

The voice of the taxi driver interrupted the reverie of Laurian. A few minutes

later, he paid the race, then entering one of the most sophisticated salons of

London.

While waiting for the hairdresser finished answering a client, Laurian flipped

through a magazine.

Suddenly he remembered the books he had bought and forgotten in the

restaurant.

- Damn! - He muttered aloud.

There was enough time to get back to the restaurant, but did not intend to take

the risk to find Oliver Thornham again. I wanted to avoid it at all costs. He went

to the reception and called the restaurant, which reported that the books had been

found and were at her disposal. Then he telephoned a firm of deliveries and in less

than an hour the books were already in their hands. The messenger entered the

hall, asking to speak personally with Laurian.

- Miss. Bradford? - He handed her the bag. - There's a letter for Miss. - He

took a pocket envelope, handing him.

The boy pulled away and Laurian waited until the clerk finished wiping her

hair, to open it. Inside was a five pounds, had left on the table, and a note.

"I can not allow you to pay for a meal that did not eat because I hated for some

reason unknown to me. I leave London tomorrow morning. I'm sure you'll find

her, because I believe there are not many fashion designers with their appearance.

If you think I deserve an explanation, and you know that encouraged me, you can

contact me through this phone number until noon tomorrow. I do not believe in

fate, but I feel that we need to see again. Oliver Thornham. "

The telephone prefix was Mayfair, which meant that he was staying in one of

the hotels nearby. Perhaps Ritz or Brown's. This fact confirmed the impression

that it was a rich man.

When you come to the island, Oliver had little more than twenty years and

Euphrosyne style yacht eq u ivalia a large sum of money. Archie had induced him

to sell the island for a bargain price and no doubt had sold some time later for an

amount ten times higher than it paid. When presented as a hotel, probably had

referred to a chain of hotels.

He remembered how Oliver Thornham played with the fear that Archie, with

more than seventy years, he felt at the thought that might not live up to the time

when Laurian reach financial independence. This thought caused him nausea, just

as revolted years ago, when he realized how much Oliver was ungrateful to his

father.

With trembling fingers, she tore the paper into pieces.

Laurian across the blue waters of the lagoon with the ease of one who is

accustomed to swim from baby. Archie decided that his daughter should live like a

kid in and out of the water. When Archie invited Oliver to remain on the island for

as long as desired, Euphrosyne had been anchored in the deepest part of the pond,

about one kilometer from the island, almost the same distance to a hotel in a larger

island, where he addressed frequently .

- Do not expect him pass all the time next to a confused old man like me and a

girl - Archie commented the first time that Oliver warned that not dine with them

because it had been invited to a barbecue at Emerald Beach.

- Well that would go along - Laurian replied anxiously. - And you?

- Only we would mess up, honey. In fact, it is not the barbecue that interests

you, but the girls. A young healthy as he needs female companionship. - Archie

sighed. - Ah ... If I had twenty-five years ... -

For many weeks, Laurian had felt as happy as the father co m the presence of

Oliver. However, he swam toward the angry yacht and wishing never have known

Oliver Thornham.

I was breathless as he approached the Euphrosyne. Oliver, who had seen, held

out her hand, helping her to climb aboard.

- What brought you here, urchin Sea? - He asked, pulling her to the deck.

Treated by the nickname given him days after his arrival.

Yet he was too tired to speak. Nadara many kilometers and had to catch his

breath. He shook his head like a dog, splashing water everywhere. When he

finally managed to speak, he shouted:

- You pig! You dirty and contemptible pig!

Oliver looked at her surprised.

- Very serious charges, urchin Sea. What's the problem?

- No - she replied in an aggressive tone. - I just think you are ... A bastard -

pronounced the word, the worst he knew with obvious contempt.

From the beginning, he considered his hero Oliver. A fearless and elegant

adventurer like all his idols, with the difference that they, or had died or they were

just fiction figures, while Oliver was a flesh and blood man, awakening new and

strange emotions inside. However, now he believed he, he alone should be the

author of the plan that Archie had exposed him and that meant much more than

Laurian could bear.

- I imagine that your father ever tell you that will send her to school - Oliver

said impassively.

- Just because you put this crazy idea in his head. My education ... Now, I'm

being very polite here. When he was my age, you read in French and Spanish?

Archie spoke five languages fluently learned the best way possible, that is,

living with the people of these countries. Even before learning to read English, he

had begun to teach French and Spanish.

- No, not read - Oliver admitted. - But you need much more than that, honey.

- In your opinion. I know you attended the same school as Archie and

although you have not been expelled, has not learned even half of what I learned

with my father.

- I learned many things you know.

- I can still learn. I know the four operations and multiplication tables.

- However, do not know how to use a calculator, which today is absolutely

essential. You do not know anything about geometry, algebra, chemistry and

physics - Oliver wondered, in a soothing tone.

- I do not want to learn! - The answer came quickly. - I know what I want to

do when you grow up. I want to be a painter. And will I need not learn anything

about these matters upset.

- Why do you think matters are boring?

- Well, because Archie told me.

- They are boring for him ... it may not be for you. Some people find them

fascinating. And it's still too young to decide on their own life. - Laurian tried to

interrupt him, but Oliver did not allow. - Stay quietly and let me finish. You live

out of your time and reality, my child. Despite the harsh words like or sleazy

bastard pig and look like a scarecrow most of the time, you remember another time

of King Edward VII boy than a girl of today. It's time to live with other girls of

their age and learn to cope with modern life.

- I'm perfectly able to face it! - Laurian countered with emphasis. - I know

swimming, fishing, handle boats. I am great at sewing and cook a number of

French dishes. I'm not afraid of the dark and know manage Archie's gun. If he

needs to leave, as happened once when I was a kid, I could very well be alone on

the island. I can take care of myself. I bet the girls my age in England do not even

know half the things I know.

- Probably not - Oliver nodded. - The problem is that Archie is much older than

the parents of most girls her age. It can leave forever ... You can die, Laurian. And

then? As you will?

She shivered at the thought of the possibility of his father's death; however, he

replied in a firm voice:

- As always ... I was in the place I belong. On our island. I not intend to go

anywhere else. I am quite happy here. Or at least it was until you arrive and put

crazy ideas in his head Archie. Why should he die? He never has been sick in his

life. His father lived to almost ninety years. All Bradford have long life.

Oliver did not find an adequate response. After a brief silence, he said:

- The idea of sending her to school is not mine, Hedgehog. Existed before my

arrival. Do not blame me for something you do not deserve. You want to drink a

cold soda?

The sun's noon already dried up the faded May Laurian.

- No, thank you - replied haughtily. Oliver teased her.

- You are behaving like a child and knows very well. You will thoroughly

enjoy the college. You learn to play tennis and riding. Participate in the swim team.

There is a new and extremely exciting world waiting for you.

- And Archie? - Do not give up to contradict him. - What will you do after I

left? You will not live forever on the island. So he'll be alone.

- You can close the house and travel with me. Or maybe I freight my yacht and

still remain for some more time here ... helping the conservation of the place,

which is in bad shape, if you have not noticed.

- It is our problem. We like it here the way it is. - Basically, Laurian recognized

that Oliver was right. The house was becoming dilapidated and needed urgent

repairs and painting. However, she and Archie had more important things to do

than spend time removing cobwebs or killing cockroaches in rooms for a long time

kept closed.

Suddenly, he wished to change his mind and accept the offer of a soft drink.

The effort to swim left her thirsty. It hurt his head and also felt that pain in the

lower abdomen and that bothered her in recent days. He tried to show himself

strong, but now could not control her grief.

- Oh ... why will not go away and leave us alone? We do not want here ...

interfering in our lives ... changing everything ... - Laurian shouted tearfully.

Unable to continue that discussion, he threw himself into the sea and swam

back to the island.

Hours later, he felt a weakness of the legs, and checking, he realized he was

bleeding. He did not feel shocked. Archie had explained the changes that occur in

your body. Now it was no longer a girl but a woman. You could even have a baby.

At that point, his father did not clarify much. I told him he would find everything

you need to know in the medical encyclopedia published about forty years ago and

explained more about snake bites and poisons than the meaning of sex.

A few days earlier he had questioned Oliver about certain things that intrigued

her. He believed in love with him and wondered to what age would have to wait

until Oliver also fell in love with her.

As her feelings had changed! He felt betrayed put Oliver. He was convinced

that it was his idea to send her to the cold, damp, desolate and distant England.

All these memories came flooding in hairdresser taxi ride to the house she

shared with Robert Adstock. And, after all, to admit that, after all, Oliver had been

right in all his arguments.

A year after leaving the island, had already begun to enjoy the new life of his

age girls and dedicating hard to study. He understood that without a traditional

education without good grades, would never be accepted at the Royal College of

Art.

What could never forget was the real reason Oliver convinced Archie to send it

to England. Far from being selflessly concerned about the future of Laurian, he

was motivated by themselves and vested interests. From the beginning, I realized

that the island represented a potential gold mine and bought for a price well below

the real estate market.

She and Robert lived in Spitalfields, located in the old town and until recently

inhabited time only by poor people. But lately, as many ancient places of London,

suddenly became synonymous with living well.

With three other students, Robert and Laurian had rented the house almost in

ruins and with their own resources, they reformed her, leaving her habitable, with a

room for each, just sharing a bathroom and the kitchen.

Then one of the boys had accepted a job in New York and the other decided to

divide the house in small apartments with their own kitchens and bathrooms.

Laurian and Candida occupied the upstairs and Robert and Pete, the ground.

Finally, Candida had married a New Zealander and Pete went to work in

another city, so Laurian and Robert perm the neceram as the only residents of the

house. The lobby was common to both and so Laurian entered, approached the

console to check correspondence. Just then a door opened and a blond man of

about thirty, appeared.

- Would you like a drink before going up? Your hair looks great, but you seem

a little dejected, dear. He worked a lot? Lie down and rest before getting ready for

dinner.

- Hello, Robert - Laurian greeted him, entering the living room of his

apartment. He showed her the bag with books. - To read during the holidays. - I

felt a twinge in consciousness to remember that almost given up the trip.

- Great. What do you drink? Gin and tonic?

- Only tonic. Gin could rise straight to my head. Today I not had lunch.

- So I'll make you a sandwich. Sit down and make yourself comfortable. -

Gently, Robert led her to the sofa, settled down to taking her shoes and tucking her

feet on the pads. - You demand too much of herself. Tomorrow, however, will

already be off and this is your big night.

He walked into the kitchen and Laurian relaxed muscles. Robert also too

devoted to work and she recognized that this exaggerated dedication was due to the

fact that both did not have a private life.

Robert was a furniture designer and also super dedicated to the activity.

He returned with a glass of milk and some sandwiches.

- I think it's enough to strengthen your stomach until dinnertime. Have you

done your bags?

- Yes. I packed everything last night. And how was your day?

Laurian heard the account of Robert's busy day carefully. Despite acting in

different fields, always they exchanged ideas about their activities.

- Celie visited this morning - he added. - It seemed to me very well.

Laurian knew all about Celie, the ex-wife with whom he had married at

nineteen. Natural of a small town in the north, where traditional marriage, with

engagement and white dress, it was still essential, both were pressured by their

families, after discovering that Celie become pregnant. After they married, they

went to London, but soon realized that marriage was a mistake. Two years later,

she met a divorced man with a teenage son, and after divorcing Robert, married

again. Now I had another baby with her second husband and her daughter with

Robert liked the stepfather as a true father, Robert considering a sort of uncle, who

did not look too often. Basically, both Celie as Robert were happy for a youth error

not they have destroyed the lives and hopes of being happy. Perhaps because of

this bad experience successful as a father, he did not intend to have more children

in the future.

That decision bothered to Laurian. For five years, spent their school holidays in

the home of Dr. Lingfield, integrated into the united and large family, and dreamed

of having his own family.

Prepared to talk to Robert about the man who found the bookstore, but this

gave him no chance.

- I told Celie about dinner tonight and she asked me what you will use, but I

could not do anything because I do not even know.

- Well, since you do so much secrecy about the location you chose for our

vacation, you will have to wait to see my costume gala ...

- I'm sure you will win the contest - he said with conviction. - By the way, I am

curious to see the princess dress. I imagine that anything signed by the finalists.

- I agree. Unless you already know the name of the winner. I think even if you

know the result in advance. Now better go up and take my shower. - He stood up,

with renewed energy for snack. - I go down by seven.

- Right. If you need help just call me - Robert offered, accompanying her to the

door.

- Thank you. - Laurian said goodbye, heading to his apartment.

While showering, no will could avoid thinking about Oli see Thornham and the

note he had written. Although he had torn the paper, remembered the phone

number. Regret for having not explained why the left alone in the restaurant, but

not intended to call you. Not only because there was no time, as pleased him also

imagine him curious to know why a woman who seemed to succumb to their

irresistible charm, suddenly rejected without explanation.

"I feel that we need to see again," he wrote.

- No, it depends on me - Laurian spoke loudly, straining to focus on what I

should say if he won the contest ... or the lost ...

CHAPTER II

R obert dabbed at Laurian arm.

- Have you been simply wonderful ... Wonderful and very elegant.

Dinner was over and returned home by taxi. He entwined and Laurian trimmed

her head on his shoulder.

- The whole secret is this silk velvet! - Laurian justified. - This fabric was

fashionable at the time of the Second World War and then was replaced by other

fibers, but nothing could overcome its classic effect. This dress was made from a

piece of the thirty years that I bought in an antique shop as soon as I arrived in

London and kept for a really special occasion.

- And there has never been a more special opportunity than tonight. The

princess showed surprise and you too. Indeed, it was very bold of you to use

something as simple in contrast to the costume created for her.

- I was thrilled with the fact that she use it - Laurian confessed. - The silk

blouse was more an old tissue treasure.

- All they commented about his sense of color - Robert commented admiringly.

- The credit belongs to those who designed the patterns on silk. - His voice was

full of modesty.

Laurian acquired the tissue in a small town a few years ago. At the time, no one

was interested in the few meters of French silk protected by cellophane not to

spoil.

- Sulferino, blue and purple ... That lack of taste in color combination. -

Laurian heard someone comment, however, made after the model, recognized that

the three bold colors combined in a perfect vibration.

And after announcing the result of the contest, the Princess of Wales admitted

to be using a winning model. Then called by Laurian to hand him the award.

Robert narrowed even more in his arms and said:

- I was very proud of you tonight. So calm and sure of herself ... and very

beautiful!

- Thank you. I'm glad I managed to appear a calm he did not feel.

- I realized that barely touched dinner. Are not you hungry? Can I make

another sandwich when we arrived.

Laurian shook his head movement, touched by his concern.

- I ate enough to feed my body and my soul. Do not worry, thank you.

They were sitting in a corner seat, free of the driver's gaze in the rearview

mirror. Robert began to kiss her, while entwined harder.

These caresses were gentle, even provocative, as if he waited for a sign to

indicate what Laurian wanted to happen next. But despite allowing Robert

continued the kisses and caresses and even feel grateful for displays of affection,

she could not correspond with ardor or passion.

- You are always so fragrant ... - whispered, kissing her neck and ear.

- Dear Robert ... Would you consider me a monster if we leave a glass of

champagne for another day? - He left a bottle in the fridge with a promise to open

it if Laurian win the contest. - I'm exhausted and I would come home and go

straight to bed.

Interrupting the kisses and without hiding his disappointment, he stammered:

- No ... Of course not ... I see.

Laurian felt guilty, knowing full well that Robert hoped finished the night

together in the same bed. But always made it clear that they were just friends and

neighbors. Perhaps, during the holidays, where would fifteen days together,

changed his mind and wanted to maybe make love to him.

But not tonight. Not after a public appearance with dozens of reporters and

television cameras around. Out a major boost to his career, but really did not like to

have been the target of attention and general looks. Rather continue an anonymous

person and not a celebrity. The taxi stopped in front of their house. Robert came

down, helping her out. While he paid the driver, Laurian opened the door with his

key. Robert followed her inside, closing the door. Stopping on the first rung of the

ladder, she turned to her friend.

- Could not wish companion more charming and attentive. Thanks for walking

me, Robert. Y ou is incredibly supportive.

- Never miss a party like this. - Moved closer. - I'll give you a goodnight kiss -

Robert said, taking her tightly in his arms.

With a never before shown momentum, Robert covered his mouth with intense

anxiety and desire, forcing her to half-open lips.

When finally the caresses were discontinued, Laurian moved away gently.

He tried in every way to meet Robert caresses, but they awakened him nothing.

- Do not forget to set the clock to wake up. Sleep well. Good evening.

He waited for her to climb the stairs and enter her apartment. Only then he

walked away.

When the alarm went off the next morning, Laurian caught the clock,

snuggling more between the sheets. His room was located in the house high and

every night before bed, she opened the curtains in order to be agreed by the sun

when the clouds so common in most Londoners days not covered up.

Still I missed the sun, the heat and the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean.

Three times a week in a club used to swim to keep your muscles in shape, but

regarded this habit as a necessary and not a leisure exercise.

Despite his fatigue, had not slept well. It is not yet risen when the phone rang.

- Hello? - I was hoping to hear the voice of Robert, making sure that she had

not lost time.

- Laurian, dear ... Congratulations! The news is already all over the news. I'm

so happy ... and very, very proud of you.

It was his adoptive mother, calling from Yorkshire.

-. Hello, Ma was planning to call later.

As the four sons of Barbara, Laurian treated her as "Ma" and loved her as his

real mother. In fact, he exercised the first female influence in the life of Laurian,

supporting her in that terrible first year that lived separated from her father and

after his death.

. Once you want to know all the details of the party, Ms Lingfield explained:

- Bill is not at home at the time but will turn so go back. You will still travel

with Robert Adstock?

Although an educated woman, Laurian knew that Ma did not approve of certain

rules of behavior and moral.

- Our flight leaves at ten o'clock, but still do not know where we are going.

Rober t insist on doing mystery about this trip. I know you do not like the idea that

my own journey with Robert, but please do not worry about it.

- Baby, you're an adult enough to know how to lead his own life. I have no

right to interfere or even advice. What I want you and my daughter is all that I had

... The privilege of loving and being loved.

- Amar usually means tears - Laurian replied, thinking of the suffering of the

girls after a completed novel.

- I mean the true love and not a crazy passion - Barbara said, not for the first

time. - The important thing is to ask yourself: "Is he nice? He makes me laugh? We

subject to talk when we are not in the arms of another? "

- Robert is gentle, not lacking is subject to discuss. We never sat in silence.

Not that he did not make her laugh, despite the fun passages that sometimes

commented. However, his adoptive mother did not refer to this kind of joke. The

Lingfield family had an intense sense of humor and Laurian in the years she had

lived with them, laughed more than in all his life.

- Yes, you have much in common, but I do not think that is in love with him,

Laurian. It does the sun shine for you, despite the reigning time, but Bill still does

it for me. Of course not all the time. After all, we also have our ups and downs.

However, on the rare occasions that we remain separate, we count the minutes to

the meeting again ... And, look, all this after thirty-three years! Some people still

live happily ever after, dear, although skeptics claim that the rates of divorces

increase daily.

- I agree and acknowledge that you and Dad are living proof that true love

exists. However, you had to choose between marriage and career. And, as we have

heard repeated over and over again, you can not have everything in life. Well, I not

yet lifted me and at this time should already be ready to travel. Thanks for the call.

I send a postcard as soon arrive to my mysterious destination.

Once they departed, Laurian stood up and, as she took her bath, she thought

that perhaps it was not very convenient to travel the next morning his award. I

knew he should be present at Wogan night if remained in London. Not

participating in the most watched English television talk show, its employees

believed that it would lose an important opportunity to promote Laurian label. He

did not care about that, because I was sure that would invite him as soon as he

returned from vacation.

- Mr. Adstock, his secretary calls him on the phone. It seems urgent.

Robert stopped reading the newspaper when the receptionist came. He dropped

it on the couch in the airport waiting room.

- What has happened to so severe that Jim can not solve? It will not be long.

At that time, Lauria n knew that would not have traveled to the East, as

imagined, but to the West across the Atlantic. The destination was Antigua, the

island where twenty years earlier had taken the plane that had taken her to

England. It was a shock to discover that Robert wanted to take her to the Caribbean

and had tried his best to disguise the annoyance not to spoil the surprise he had

planned carefully for her.

Not spoken about his childhood with Robert, it was a subject that had never

discussed with anyone, ne m even with Jenny, David and Neal Lingfield, already

teenagers when met them. Suzie, the youngest, was born when Barbara could not

imagine getting pregnant again.

When Robert returned to the waiting room, he looked annoyed and worried.

- What happened? - He asked as he sat on the couch.

- Nothing related to the office. My sister called my desk asking to locate me.

My father had a heart attack and is in the intensive care unit. It seems that no

danger of life, but mother would like me to stay beside her. Sorry, Laurian, but I

need to go home.

- Of course, if a car rent it will get there in a few hours. - Laurian began

gathering their bags, unsure felt relief or disappointment with the cancellation of

his return to the West Indies.

- No, no ... I do not go with me. I do not want to change our plans. I'm going to

meet him as soon as possible.

- Not crosses my mind traveling without you! I insist on accompanying him.

We revesar in behind the wheel and, when we get there, can always be useful ...

shopping ... Cooking ...

- I appreciate your offer, Laurian ... But no. His presence would only

complicate things.

- What do you mean?

He took her hands.

- I do not think you understand the environment where I came from. Today my

parents live in a comfortable house, but for years lived in a tiny house with

bathroom on the outside.

- So that's it? What is the problem? Many people lived well and I believe that

millions still live. And from what he told me about his mother, I bet she never

lived with cockroaches in the kitchen. I grew up with them running all over the

house.

- Really? - Robert proved to be surprised for a moment, however, he hastened

to add: - I think you're exaggerating. From what I know of him, I imagine his

family belongs to the upper middle class. And the fact of receiving a person of a

higher level, especially famous designer like you, only increase the mother's

concerns. In fact, she does not know about us, and I do not think this is the right

time to tell you. Please Laurian, do what I'm asking. Go without me.

- But, Robert ...

- Do not argue with me. I want you to go and matter closed. I hate to go home.

I hate. I do not belong more to that place. And I know that, although worried about

my father's health, my mother will still blame me for my divorce. I'll feel better

knowing that you're taking advantage of the holidays I planned. Will you do that

for me ... There will?

It was hard to deny the appeal expressed in his eyes. Laurian beginning to

realize that Robert lived conflicting emotions about the humble origins and parents

and needed to respect his feelings.

- Okay ... I alone - decided.

- Great. Take your ticket. When explain the situation, I'm sure my exchange.

You will need also the letters confirming our reservations at the hotel. It's all here.

- She handed him an envelope. - Telephone at night.

Ten minutes later, still feeling the warmth Robert Kiss her lips, Laurian was in

an armchair accommodated first class, with a sherry cup in hand, toward the

Caribbean.

The flight lasted eight hours, but due to the time zone, it was still daylight

when the plane landed. Leaving the air-conditioned comfort to face the heat of the

Caribbean later Laurian remembered the moment that the aircraft door, waved

goodbye to Archie.

If he had suspected that was the last time he would see his father, he would

have escaped the plane and refused to part with it.

When the weekly letters stopped coming, the worrying, the Lingfield told him

that Archie had died of a cardiac arrest. Cardiac arrest ... or grief over losing his

island and his daughter? Laurian never doubted that this was the real cause of his

father's death.

Privately, he swore that one day Oliver would pay for all the evil that caused,

reaching his heart, if he had one.

The initial desire for revenge was gradually fading; until cool completely. But

as he entered the taxi that would take her to the hotel where pernoitaria, Oliver

returned to occupy his thoughts. During the flight, discovered that would not pass

the holidays in Antigua, and after another quick flight if hospedariam in a hotel in

Emerald Beach, near the island that Oliver had stolen her and Archie. Regarded as

theft that someone buy something for a bargain price even aware of their real

value.

- Been before in Antigua, Miss? - The driver asked.

- Yes, once ... long time ago ... - He leaned over, resting his arms on the back

of the front seat, questioning him about the changes that had occurred since his

departure.

Wearing a T-shirt to protect the shoulders and the back of strong sun, his legs

already tanned, Laurian watched the sea in front of the Emerald Beach Hotel.

That place, could see the piece of beach with blue-green waters, where

Euphrosyne remained anchored. Beyond the headland, beyond the reach of her

sight, was located the island where he was born. That afternoon, on board the boat

at the disposal of hotel guests, would to a point where we could see he had become

their island after Oliver had taken possession of it.

Through discreet soundings among the hotel servants, discovered that the

island was once known as Bradford's Place, now called Palm Reef Club and

belonged to Mr. Thornham.

And a guest with a small fortune on rings, had told him that at first, the place

he had chosen to vacation outside the Palm Reef.

- I received a letter explaining that they no longer had jobs, but did not believe.

I guess I just did not want staying.

- Why would they do that, Mrs. Lansing.?

- Well, honey, I am, as they say, upstart. By have, my late husband was the

son of Russian immigrants. I not met them, but I know they were very poor when

they arrived in the United States. And Palm Reef is a very exclusive club. You

need to have blood-blue, being a head of state or a star like Meryl Streep to stay

there. I read in the Town & Country which is the most exclusive place in the

Caribbean ... A place where the personalities know that only meet other

personalities and where they will be in complete safety. I never expected me to

accept, but it was worth trying.

Although he adapted quickly to sun and heat, Laurian body still resented the

difference hours. That morning, reading in bed until there is enough light to go out

and walk along the deserted beach to watch the sunrise, she admitted that it could

not personally verify the privilege of kingdom, luxury and power that Oliver

Thornham created.

And that was what made her decide definitely stay two weeks. As promised,

Robert would call him every night, with his father's news.

It ordered a small boat, decided to go to Palm Reef.

- Are you sure you know how to handle this boat, Miss. Ford? - Had asked

another American guest.

In Antigua, told Robert that he intended to register at Emerald Beach as Ann

Ford not to be recognized as an English guest. In fact, some feared that employee

could associate its name to Archibald Bradford, the former owner of the small

island of the surroundings.

- Do not worry - responded, smiling at the man. - There is no secret at all ... It's

like riding a bike. Once you learn never forget.

- Well I think more complicated. Accepted a soft drink, Miss. Ford?

- Oh ... Yes, thank you, a cold soda ... And my name is ... Ann.

- I am Melvin Dorado. Call me Mel. Nice to meet you, Ann. I'm from Cedar

Rapids, Iowa. - As they walked to the terrace, he began to tell the story of your life.

"Private Property. No Entry. "

The warning written in white letters on a green plate was clearly visible by

anyone who tried to dock on the island.

But the warning was not enough to stop her from approaching more.

Immediately he recognized that the island was much changed. Now, where

there was an impenetrable vegetation, there were paths leading across the island.

And where had landed, was a stone cavity with salt water, where guests could

wash his feet, to remove particles of white coral.

In the bathrooms of the Emerald Beach had notices asking guests to do the

same, because the pulverized coral could clog the hotel plumbing.

Dali, Laurian watched the island. A deep resentment invaded it, and barefoot as

a child, began to walk through the courtyard, wondering what Mrs.. Lansing meant

by "total security".

Not have long to wait to find out. A few minutes later, an instinctive gesture,

turned, faced with a native, tall and strong, who followed her in silence.

- Good afternoon - Laurian greeted him politely.

The man took a few steps toward him.

- Do not read the sign, miss? - He asked in polite way. - This is a private island.

His voice was strong, with a slight American accent. Perhaps, like herself, born

in the Caribbean, but spent long time off.

- Sorry, I did not notice the warning. If so, I'll embo ra - She turned, expecting

him to give him passage.

- I'm sorry, Miss will have to follow me. - With a gesture, she showed him the

way he should go.

- Why? - Only then he noticed he was carrying a walkie-talkie, as the London

police.

- All offenders should be questioned.

- Look, I'm staying at the Emerald Beach. If you saw me get here, you may

have noticed that the boat belongs to the hotel.

- It is a general rule. No exceptions. Please go walking.

- But it is absurd! - Laurian protested, but, realizing that it would be useless to

argue, walked toward the house, which seemed unrecognizable, with stone walls

and white painted windows.

- To the left, please! - The man ordered.

Followed by a one-story building, which did not exist in his time. Looking

around, Laurian noticed other changes. Lounge chairs with blue cushions were

scattered through the garden, as well as pr green umbrellas tegiam the white tables

and chairs. A waiter wearing robe carrying a tray of drinks for guests Laurian not

see, but whose voices and laughter could hear.

The security guard approached a door that read "Management". Tapped and

someone said,

- Come in.

He opened the door and with a nod sent her in.

- Sit down, Miss ...

The man sitting behind the desk stood up so Laurian entered.

- Sit down, Miss ...

- Ford. - He sat facing him.

- My name is Lynn. - It was a native of about forty, wearing a suit and tie. -

Why it landed on the beach of a particular property, Miss. Ford?

Before he could answer, the door opened and someone came in. And the voice

that Laurian immediately recognized, said:

- John, I wonder if ... Oh, is busy. Sorry to interrupt. I will come back later.

The manager stood up again.

- This is Miss. Ford - he explained. - She landed on the island without

permission, sir.

Laurian not returned, however, from the corner of his eye he saw a tall man

approaching to look at it from the front. Impassively stared Oliver Thornham,

disguising the conflicting feelings that seethed within him.

If you did not intend to find it more, should not have come to the island, he

thought. Assumed, erroneously, that was still in Europe, and the fact that the owner

of Palm Reef Club did not mean he should spend much time there.

He looked at her intensely for a long time, from her hair to the impregnated

fingers of white coral. He noted that the Caribbean sun, and has tanned his skin,

had given a new shine to hair. For a moment, Laurian even thought he recognized

the girl who one day sent him away, separating her forever from his father.

To her relief, Oliver did not recognize as Archie Bradford's daughter. A cynical

smile bent the corners of the lips.

- Miss. Ford and I've met, John. No need to waste your time. Let myself take

care of her.

He walked to the door, opening it.

- This way, Miss. Ford.

Followed by a corridor to another room. Oliver Thornham closed the door and

pointed to a chair in front of a desk, leaning on it with his arms and legs crossed.

Unlike the manager, he wore shirt and white shorts and Laurian imagined she'd

been playing tennis.

- Once you know me, Mr. Thornham, do not you think all this unnecessary? Do

you really believe that you have come here for another reason it was not curiosity?

- Laurian said, dryly.

- But I do not know, Miss. Ford. I only know the little that spoke about him and

... that behaved in a very strange way when we first time. Therefore, I see no

reason to take your word for that is not one of those undesirables that sometimes

appear to bother us.

She crossed her legs, fidgeting impatiently in his chair, which creaked with the

movement.

- What suspicion? I intended to assassinate a guest? Or steal the jewels of your

guests?

- I agree it may seem impolite on my part, though we are living in a time when

anything can happen. Terrorists often be used attractive young to smuggle weapons

and explosives. And jewelry is often stolen if guests are not smart enough to keep

them in the hotel safe. It costs nothing to verify your identity. What's your first

name and where she is staying?

- Ann Ford ... Emerald Beach.

He uncrossed his legs and leaned use some phones on the desk.

- Please call me with the Emerald Beach manager. - He replaced the receiver

and looked at Laurian. - When you arrived and how long you want to stay?

Very reluctantly, Oliver answered questions.

- Are you alone?

- Yes.

The phone rang and he answered.

- Hello, Edgar. All right? Great. Yeah ... I'm fine, thank you. I returned last

night. I'll be busy for a few days, but so can have lunch together. Edgar, there's

Ann Ford hosted there? There is great. The reason for my question is that I met in

London and would like to review it while staying here. Yes ... You're right, she's a

beautiful woman. Perhaps waiting for a gold mine. No? Well, you're a good judge.

No, do not tell him anything if you can not find it. Thank you and goodbye, Edgar.

He hung up, turning their attention to Laurian.

- How can see, my friend Edgar considers an ornament to the hotel.

- How much kindness! - She joked. - Now, I can go?

- Not yet. This was only a preliminary investigation proving that really is

hosted at Emerald Beach and in Edgar's opinion, you are not looking for a rich

husband or a protector. The next step is to talk to someone who can ensure not only

that it is a simple tourist it is also an honest citizen without any second thoughts

about people staying here. I do not think it will be very difficult. If you told me the

truth, in London, I can contact the firm where he works.

- I ... I ... work on your own.

- You mean it's free - lancerl

-. Do not I have a small business. - In fact, compared with the big couture

houses, "Laurian" was a small company.

- Then I speak to your secretary or manager. Trying to appear calm and

security, he said:

- I am afraid that is not possible. My secretary is also on vacation. In fact, all

the staff ... In collective vacation, you know? It is very common clothing close for

two weeks.

- In August, yes. At least that's what I heard. But not this time of year.

He looked suspicious.

- It turns out that this time of year is very convenient for me and my

employees.

- Okay ... Give me the name and address of one of its customers. There must be

someone who can confirm the truth of your information.

To Laurian Bradford yes ... but not for Ann Ford.

- Look, Mr. Thornham, a link to London is very expensive ... and totally

unnecessary. Why not ask your security to accompany me to the boat and then

back to Emerald Beach and never will set foot again on his island. You have my

word.

- A word on what can and can not trust. No, Miss. Ford, will not go away so

after violate an order. It turns out that tomorrow will reach a very important person

and must assure the security personnel that anything unusual happened here.

Moreover, I do not care about the fact cause you hassles. His offensive behavior in

London, apparently free, deserves some repair. He checked the time on his

wristwatch.

- I have an urgent matter to resolve, so I'll leave it alone for fifteen minutes,

which will give you enough time to think of someone who can answer for you.

And I wait for a convincing explanation for their presence on the island, and his

strange attitude in the restaurant. - With cold and implacable expression left the

room, he closed the door, locking it from the outside.

"He's bluffing," Laurian thought. "Taking revenge by having done so stupid in

London. Trying to scare me. "

She bit her lip. Really, I was in his hands. Even mention the names of his

friends, who could say he knew Ann Ford?

The answer was one: no one.

Also could not explain his behavior at the restaurant, unless you reveal your

true identity. And that was the last thing he wanted. I could not explain why, but

his instincts intuited not to tell the truth, at least for now.

Partly to keep busy and to get rid of particles of coral that bothered her, she

took a piece of paper and began removing the sand feet.

It had been more than twenty minutes when she heard noise in the lock. He

turned toward the door and was faced with a native youth in the uniform of the

hotel.

- You can follow me, miss?

Laurian rose.

- Where?

- For the living room of Mr Thornham.

She led her into the house that Archie had built. He felt a lump in his throat

when he crossed the hall toward the stairs so many times climbed to get to your

room to sleep in old bed protected by a mosquito net.

The hall was also very different, not seedy and dirty. Also no longer had the

chandeliers her father to buy in Venice in the thirties.

Now, the decor included Persian rugs and velvet armchairs. He went upstairs,

following the employee, and crossed with an elegant lady, who smiled amiably

Laurian recognized as a famous actress who now walked away from the stage.

At the top of the stairs there was a narrow hallway that ran the length of the

house with a window-shutter at each end and numerous doors on both sides. She

led her to the last door down the hall. Tapped, opening it then.

The woman smiled and waited for Laurian came in, shutting the door again.

- Come to the terrace, Miss. Ford - Oliver Thornham invited.

Laurian had a good impression of the room comfortable and well decorated. He

walked to the terrace where there was a table already prepared with glasses and

iced tea.

Oliver indicated one of the chairs facing the beach and Laurian noted that the

large terrace that surrounded the house was divided into small exclusive balconies

for each room.

- Can I offer you a cup of tea?

- Even though I may be a terrorist or a dangerous thief?

As she filled the glasses, he replied:

- I think I can take the risks. Have you decided who you want me to call?

Laurian decided to play and face the bluff him.

- No, I have not decided.

He gave her a thoughtful look.

- Try this tea. It is the house specialty. Try to guess what is done.

Laurian sipped and immediately recognized the flavor. I have not forgotten the

taste of Archie extravaganzas.

- Cucumber and something more. Whatever it is, it's a great combination.

- I agree. That something else is Patum Peperium, a sort of pate widely used on

toast.

Curious to know what he used to tell people about his connection to the house,

he asked:

- You were born in this part of the world? And this house belonged to his

family?

- No, I came here about twenty years. The house was built by an eccentric

Englishman, who gradually lost its fortune. When I got here, the house was already

in bad shape, but still retained the marks of its beauty. I tried to capture the

atmosphere and restore it as closely as possible and I believe I was successful.

- And amassed his fortune in the project, I suppose - Laurian completed with

cold and impersonal voice.

- All have benefited. I have the best staff in this part of the Caribbean, because

we paid the best salaries and offer the best working conditions. And, as far as

possible, use products made or grown on the island itself. I do not mean to tourists,

but the natives. For example, we offer scholarships for young people to specialize

in the United States or England.

- Do you speak more as a philanthropist than as a businessman - she

commented wryly.

- I believe it is possible to combine both conditions. Especially for someone

like me who does not have shareholders who share the lu c ros and whose personal

needs are modest.

Were you telling the truth? Or just wanted to impress her? If it were really true,

his views had changed a lot and had nothing to do with the price paid for the

island.

Laurian rose. If u lean over the railing, holding his glass in one hand. Oliver

approached stopping beside her, but not too close.

- What did you think of the Caribbean? Up to your expectations?

- I Antigua a bit arid, but the two islands are gorgeous - admitted.

- Do you think you were born here, I would have wanted to leave it?

Laurian felt a chill run through her body. Asking weirdest!

- I believe that someone born here, having to leave the island means great

suffering.

- I agree. No one in their right mind would leave the island at will. Perhaps for

lack of jobs or to escape poverty. People emigrate for lack of opportunity to

improve their living conditions here and not because they want to live in larger

cities and use cardigans half of the year. If at the beginning of this century, the

businessmen had thought less on profits and more on the local economy, the

natives would not leave on such a large quantity and the island's conditions today

would be different.

Laurian reflected that if he did not know in advance who was Oliver

Thornham, to have liked it. But she knew him very well and his ambition was the

cause of his forced departure. And the beautiful speech was not the least guilty in

her eyes. The end never justifies the means, if these were wrong and cruel.

He drank the rest of tea, found the time in his watch and said:

- I took the borrowed boat for two hours; if not back soon, they will think that

something happened and come looking for me.

- Change your mind? For those who want me to call?

She lifted her chin and blue eyes sparkled in a silent challenge.

- This ridiculous situation has lasted too. I will not name anyone. I do not

pretend to be "investigated". It has kept me locked in a room for twenty minutes.

That's enough, Mr. Thornham.

He sighed and looked at her resignation.

- His attitude did not help much. On the contrary, it suggests that hides

something. I'm afraid I have to keep her here until he decides to cooperate with us.

- He approached her and more in a rude tone said: - I'll send the boat back with a

message that dine here. Our boat will take you back later. That is, when you decide

to use common sense. Otherwise, spend the night here.

- Spend the night? You can not ... You have no right to keep me your prisoner!

His expression became hard and impenetrable.

- I did not understand the situation well, Miss. Ford. Here, I have certain rights,

and choose to exercise them or not. I am a patient man, and throughout my

patience, his presence will be welcome. However, I must warn you that everything

has a limit. If you insist on making things difficult, I can take more drastic

measures.

Leaving a gaping, and thinking on the meaning of his words, Oliver crossed the

living room, disappearing into the corridor.

CHAPTER III

Fter the Oliver output, Laurian stood still restraining their desire to rant and

scream and throw objects ahead. Usually, it was not given to any kind of violence.

Calm nature, for years did not lose control of your mood. Suddenly he remembered

that there raged since the day he had swum to the Euphrosyne to accuse Oliver to

induce Archie to send her to school in England.

Controlling your anger against arbitrary attitude of Oliver, helped himself to

another sandwich. The almost forgotten taste of pate Gentleman's Relish, ever

found in Europe, represented a strong Archie's memory. In fact, despite the

changes in the house, I felt the presence of the father of an almost real way. And

this observation calmed her, comforting her.

He entered the living room, watching the details. The decor was typically male.

Hundreds of books on the shelves and many curios. A picture frame showed a

picture of a couple, bride and groom, obviously the parents of Oliver.

There were other photos of both at different stages of life. Oliver was also a

photograph beside a girl, sitting on a boat and smiling. It would be your sister? He

never commented about his family and Archie did not have the habit of

questioning about the private lives of friends, unless they speak spontaneously.

Oliver never told.

He was surprised to see in a corner of the sofa a teddy bear, old, one-eyed,

dressed in a red sweater knitting. Oliver Thornham not imagined as a man given to

such sentimentality. Just then the door opened and a woman entered the room.

- S ta r. Ford? Mary Poole am and headed to the boutique hotel.

- Nice to meet you. - He shook hands with the woman handed him. Both

smiled and Laurian sympathized with her. Mary Poole conveyed a print kindness,

tenderness and kindness.

- Oliver told me you're a fashion designer. I would like to know our store?

- Yes, of course. Thank you. - Laurian wondered what else Oliver would have

told you.

As they descended the stairs, he noticed that Mary wore alliance and imagined

that her husband also worked at the hotel.

If Ms. Poole was instructed to find out if Laurian was even claimed that,

showed up quite smart not to ask direct questions. Instead, commented on the

difficulties in finding goods interessassem women who were staying at the club,

women used to do their shopping in New York, Toronto and London.

Laurian admired the cotton shirts hand-painted when two guests entered the

store. Turning to Mary, she fired up.

- I'll come back later.

- Go back even. - Mary was not afflicted by Laurian move away from their

sight.

He thought of the escape possibilities. I would have no trouble returning to

swim for your hotel. It would be perfectly able to swim many kilometers. The

problem was getting to the beach. I did not doubt that the vigilant with the walkie-

talkie to find quickly. I imagined the Palm Reef Club was protected by hidden

cameras and, somewhere, there would be one or more television sets showing

everything that happened on the island. In that case, there would be no need for

Oliver have her locked in his office. And no doubt that if he tried to swim back

would be intercepted by a boat.

The certainty of foreign infiltration impossibility in no doubt pleased the island

goers, Archie Bradford but for the daughter of the mansion today meant a luxury

prison.

I wondered what Archie think this absurd situation, when he noticed something

that did not exist in the time of his childhood. A bronze plaque with an engraved

inscription. He went over and read the name of Archie and the dates of his birth

and death. She was touched when I read the words:

"Here, after many adventures, he found stillness, peace and beauty, who shared

with many friends and strangers too. Life is often like a foam or a soap bubble, but

two things remain firm as a rock: Kindness and Courage. Here lived a good and

brave man in all his thoughts ".

Still kept his gaze fixed on the board, but disguised tears when she heard the

voice of Oliver:

- This memorial was the last work of a native sculptor who worked for Mr.

Bradford. I want to show the club.

Pretending not to show how enrollment had affected, he replied in a slightly

sarcastic tone:

- It does not seem a very smart attitude. After all, once you know the place, I

can pass the information to my accomplices.

- I do not think it will. I talked to Mary. Like you and do not often make

mistakes in judgment of people. Her opinion confirms what I think about you, did

you come here purely out of curiosity.

- Then why do not you let me go?

- Why refuses to prove their identity.

- He told Mrs. Poole that keeps me prisoner.?

-. No. She thinks we met in Europe, which is true, and that is my guest. Only

John Lynn, my manager, and one of the guards know the truth.

- And the employee who opened his office door where you locked me.

- Oh yeah. Louise. But do not count anything. All my employees are very

discreet.

- I do not doubt. Stops strangers against their will, which does not make you

any of your employees violate his orders? I bet bindeth in the basement, as the

pirates did with their enemies. - Laurian joked, intimately convinced that, on the

one hand should pay excellent wages, on the other would know how to make life

unbearable those who do not follow their standards of conduct.

- Yeah ... Something like that. This way. - He held her by the elbow, led her

from the balcony onto the terrace situated between the house and the beach.

An impersonal gesture, less intimate than a handshake. An unwelcome

reminder of the enormous attraction that Laurian felt before I knew who he was.

- How many of your shoes?

- Thirty-five - she answered automatically on the so unexpected question.

- Excuse me. Back in a moment.

Laurian stood there, wondering what he had picked her something to wear.

When Oliver returned, wearing a pair of canvas shoes she had seen Mary in store.

- Try, please. Sit down. - He indicated a stone low wall that served to protect

the terrace of sand invasion.

Laurian sat down and started to hit the sneaker. However, ignoring the gesture,

Oliver bent, holding her one ankle to shoe you.

To disguise the tremor that invaded, she said quickly:

- They must be French. I believe we are the only strengthened the fingers with

a cloth.

- Yes, French - he confirmed. - Mary purchasing an importer in Martinique.

Get up and see if served.

She obeyed without a word. After a few minutes, he said:

- It was great ... however, did not bring money.

- Debitarei in your account.

Laurian sat down again and Oliver put on the other shoe.

- His feet are very beautiful. - Hand ran from ankle to heel. - It seems that ever

donned tight shoes.

She swallowed.

- I often do as men. Just wear comfortable shoes and low heels. High heels

only for very special occasions and parties. I hate walking the streets with high

heels. I do not think anything feminine.

Oliver was still holding the ankle with one hand and the shoe on the other. He

looked carefully study the standing Laurian.

- I agree. - He looked at her in her eyes. - When I saw her walking the

Hatchards to the Fortunm I noticed was one of the few women who can be stylish

even wearing low-heeled shoes. Sure, you have the advantage of being high and

have beautiful legs.

Laurian never thought of her ankles as an erogenous point, but could not deny

her reaction at the touch of Oliver. He felt a strange and mad desire to bury her

fingers through his dark hair. However, pretending to ignore the performance, he

said:

- You mentioned my account. Do not tell me I have to pay to be his prisoner.

In one swift motion, he stood and looked at her with an impenetrable look.

- Certainly, and warn her that our daily is much more expensive than the

Emerald Beach ...

Laurian sat, confused, not knowing whether he was serious or made fun of her.

At that moment, a receptionist came warning that called him on the phone.

- Excuse me - he muttered, turning away.

The Laurian's gaze followed him along the terrace, admiring the athletic body

and firm and suddenly imagined himself being hugged and kissed by him. A

shudder ran through her body.

It bothered her to finding her feel physically attracted to a man she despised.

And to complicate and confuse her even more, he had placed a plaque in honor of

Archie qualities. A surprising attitude, no doubt. He believed that perhaps Oliver

prefer to forget the old and the girl who inhabited this island at the time of your

arrival. Obviously the girl was forgotten. Even in shorts and shirt and unkempt

hair, surely he would never relate to the girl who one day becomes a hero.

He decided not to wait for the return of Oliver and as he walked toward the

place where, during his childhood, he used to spend hours reading, remembered the

threat on keeping it there for an indefinite period if he continued denying reveal his

identity.

Why acted this way? It would be much easier to confess who he really was. In

this case should also accuse him of having induced Archie to sell the island and

was not ready for a confrontation with Oliver Thornham. For now only intended to

watch him, protected by his assumed name.

The net tied between two palm trees on the beach was still there. Not the same

network, faded, where a child had read Moby Dick and other classics, but another,

new, printed fabric, in which a woman May rested.

Once Laurian passed, the woman called her.

- Laurian! Hardly recognized. When you arrived? I thought you were in

London savoring his resounding success. Congratulations. I read in the Times that

won the prize Fashion Councis.

Lady Henry Buckland, younger son of the wife of Bronsgrouve Duke, was one

of the bes