Amazonian Love Affair
Published by Dannie Michaels at Smashwords
Copyright 2012 Dannie Michaels
Smashwords Edition, License Notes
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CHAPTER ONE
Emma was sitting dejectedly in her cell, when the guard came to get her. ‘You’ve got a visitor, Emma.’ The voice was gentle; the guards had been wonderful since Emma had been jailed.
She wasn’t to know that the guards were sure that someone had made a mistake. They simply couldn’t believe that anyone with her great, luminous green eyes and elfin face could possibly do anything to land up in jail. At only five feet tall, many men made the mistake of assuming that she was as helpless as she looked. Her bright green eyes were arresting and gazed calmly at people with direct honesty, but they could hold a steely determination and burn with bristling anger which had set many people on their back foot, realizing too late that it was a fool who pushed her that far.
Emma pushed herself to her feet, thinking that her brother had come to visit her. Her heart was heavy as she walked with the guard to the visitors’ room; how would she be able to look Sean in the face? He would blame himself for her dilemma, and he had enough on his mind to worry about. Her bubbly spirit couldn’t stop a small smile playing on her lips as she remembered the many times they been in trouble for some mischief Sean had led her into.
She always seemed to be bailing him out of one mess or another, but it had always been fun. This time, things were much more serious, and a lot more frightening. Emma had had plenty of time to think and her imagination had been working overtime thinking of the horror stories she had read about prison.
There were only two men in the visitor’s room, and although one face was vaguely familiar, Emma didn’t know either man. She looked questioningly at the guard, but he just shrugged and indicated that she should sit with the men. They didn’t stand as she approached, and she gave herself a mental shake. Why should they? She was a common criminal, and no longer entitled to the niceties of social etiquette.
She studied their faces as she sat on the hard and uncomfortable chair. The man to her left was older, with distinguished graying hair and a finely cut suit. He sat formally, and a briefcase lay on the table in front of him. His companion was younger, in his early thirties Emma guessed, and his face was striking. He sat casually, his black eyes hooded, but watching her closely. A sensuous mouth, which was hooked slightly into a smile, softened the strong jaw, and Emma couldn’t help thinking that this was a man very few women would be able to resist.
A memory shouldered its way through the fog of fright and worry that had clouded her head since the arrest. As she looked at the younger man, the memory crystallized and she remembered where she had seen him. She had thought him good looking then, but that was an insult. He was gorgeous and, for just a moment, her fears fell away as she allowed a suite of fantasies to flash through her mind.
‘Miss Gatton, my name is Larry Bonig. You have no doubt had it explained to you that you are in a great deal of trouble. I’m here to make a proposition to you, which, I’m sure, you will find more appealing than the situation you are in.’
Emma gave herself a mental shrug and reluctantly brought her thoughts back to the present.
The gray eyes of the older man measured Emma, and she gazed back at him with guarded curiosity.
‘You are in a lot of trouble, and will go to jail – something that a girl like you won’t enjoy. This gentleman, Enrico Lopez, owns the store from which you stole the egg, and, against my advice as his lawyer, he would like to propose an alternate punishment for your crime. Please understand if you do not agree to our proposal, Mr Lopez will continue to press charges against you, and you will indeed go to jail for a long while.’
The gray eyes studied Emma, and she could see the disapproval within them; this man was obviously perplexed at his client’s wish, and she sensed that there had been a rather heated argument between the two men.
A quick glance at Enrico Lopez, and Emma got the impression that he was very used to getting his own way. She also understood why his face was familiar – he had been in the store on the day she had stolen the egg!
Emma became more and more incredulous as their plan was laid before her. The whole idea was ludicrous! Why would a man like Enrico Lopez want to do such a crazy thing? He didn’t know her from Eve, and it seemed like a lot of hard work to exact justice, when the system would be able to save him a lot of time and money. Not to mention, his idea of justice seemed much less frightening than going to jail, which to her, was a fate worse than death. All through the proceedings, Enrico had remained silent, watching Emma with those dark, hooded eyes, and that secretive smile lurking around his mouth. Finally, he spoke.
‘Miss Gatton, I’m well aware that this all seems quite unusual, but I assure you, I’m very serious in my offer of an alternate punishment for your crime.’
Emma was immediately mesmerized by his voice – never had she heard such sexual power in the spoken word. The slight hint of a Latin American accent, combined with the deep timbre of his voice sent chills jingling along her spine. She tried to hide the alarming mixture of feelings this man engendered.
He continued to study her intently, the appraisal moving from a searching evaluation to something much more intimate. Emma felt warmth creep from her belly through her whole body, until she felt her cheeks flush pink. The flush deepened as she watched the man before her smile knowingly.
‘I believe you are not a hardened criminal, and the justice system will only expose you to unnecessary horrors. I do believe that you need to be punished however, and I trust you understand that my proposal isn’t to be considered an easy way out.’
Again, Emma was subjected to a searing evaluation. She felt she fell short of satisfactory.
‘I will expect you to work well, and you will be exposed to some danger and rigorous physical activity. As Larry has already pointed out, I will proceed with the charges if you do not agree to my plan. If you do decide to take up my offer, your life will be mine for the period of the contract.’
The lawyer removed a sheaf of pages from his briefcase, and passed them across to her.
‘I suggest you read this very carefully, Miss Gatton. It’s legally binding, and any breach on your part will result in full charges being pressed against you for theft, and your future will be left to the courts to decide. You have until tomorrow afternoon to make your decision. Think carefully; Mr Lopez won’t tolerate a change of mind.’
‘Do take Larry’s advice and think carefully about your options Miss Gatton. I look forward to seeing you tomorrow.’
A knowing smile curved the sensuous lips, but Emma noticed with a shiver of fear that the black eyes remained cold and calculating.
With that, both men rose to their feet and left the room. Emma sat stunned, holding the contract which, if she chose, would place her life in the hands of a man she didn’t know, a man from whom she had stolen a priceless artifact, and who now held her fate and her life in his hand.
~~~~
Emma’s heart pounded in her ears; the sweat on her palms made holding the delicate egg difficult. If she didn’t hide it soon, she may as well just put it back and walk out the door. A furtive look around to be sure no one was watching, and the egg slipped into the large pouch under the oversized sweatshirt she was wearing. A deep breath, a quick wipe of the hands on her pants, and Emma felt like she might get away with it. There were no alarm bells, no deep accusing voice accompanied by a heavy hand gripping her shoulder. Heart still pounding, and feeling flushed, Emma wandered over to a shelf containing exquisite pieces of crystal, and let her green eyes wander unseeingly among the figurines.
‘Can I be of help, miss?’
‘Oh!’ Emma almost jumped out of her skin. ‘Do you always sneak up on your customers?’ Emma tried to inject indignation into her voice to cover the tremor of fear, but still sounded terrified and guilty to her own ears.
‘My sincere apologies. I didn’t mean to startle you. If I can be of any assistance, please do let me know.’ The store clerk looked at Emma apologetically, no sign of suspicion evident on his good looking face.
‘Thank you. I will, but at the moment, I’m just getting ideas.’ Emma smiled to herself at that; the ideas she had would prompt the store clerk to call the police immediately. The clerk moved towards another browsing customer, and she watched him closely. She stifled a sigh. If she hadn’t been so scared, she would have flirted a little with the handsome salesman, but she would have given herself away with the crazy beating of her heart..
‘At this rate, the only way I'll make it out of here is in a hearse!’ The thought flitted through her mind and caused a shudder to race down Emma’s spine. ‘Time to get out of here, and never come back.’
The walk towards the entrance seemed to last an eternity. The dazzling displays of fine porcelain and expensive figurines presented a minefield of possibilities for future shopping, but today’s exercise was almost complete. Forcing herself to walk calmly, stopping here and there to admire some of the pieces, Emma made her way to the front of the boutique. One of the clerks smiled, and asked Emma if she saw anything she liked. Feigning disappointment, Emma muttered something about impossible aunts who had everything, and made her escape onto the sun-warmed pavement.
Each step carrying her further from the boutique felt lighter, until Emma was forcing herself not to run. If she dropped her precious cargo now, the anxiety, fear and risk would all have been for nothing. Looking at the people walking past her, she wondered what terrible secrets they hid behind their bland faces. Desperately clutching the egg to her stomach, she turned the first corner and stopped. Carefully, she took the egg from under her sweatshirt, and slipped it into her bag. Time enough to look at it later; now the most important thing was to get home and call Brett.
The apartment was depressing; more tall public housing blocks, which prevented the sun’s warmth and light reaching in, surrounded the building. People living in the apartment block reflected the drab surroundings, and few made any effort to improve the atmosphere. Emma could hear a child screaming as she unlocked her door and pushed her way into her home. Visitors entering the tiny apartment could see the effort Emma had made to make the four rooms a pleasant place to be, but nothing could hide the peeling paint, worn carpet and musty odor. The living room contained a faded sofa, with an old, but comfortable looking armchair; the rug held memories of a colorful past, and the small table was scattered with a variety of magazines.
There was a groan as the body on the sofa moved, and Emma’s younger brother, Sean lifted his tousled head to give her a bleary hello.
‘How are you feeling?’ asked Emma.
‘Had better days sis, but also had worse!’ Sean gave a wry grin, and hauled himself to his feet. ‘The office was busy today.’
The ‘office’ was Sean's word for the drug rehabilitation centre he was attending to deal with his addiction. Sean was only twenty, and had stumbled into trouble when he left home at sixteen after fighting with their father. Emma had tried to talk to Sean about the time he had spent on the streets, but he refused to tell her much about his life over the past four years. Emma could only guess at some of the things that he had had to do to survive.
‘Did you have any luck?’ Sean looked at Emma with desperate hope, the hollowness in his eyes tearing at her heart.
‘Yes. I managed to get this.’ Emma took the egg out of her bag and handed it to Sean.
‘Wow, that’s really nice! Is it worth enough?’
‘It’s worth three times what you owe, so I figured that we can sell it for enough to cover your debt.’ Emma shrugged, gently taking the valuable piece from Sean’s less than steady hands.
‘I’m not letting you anywhere near that creep; you’re doing too much already! I don’t trust him.’ Sean grabbed her shoulders in his agitation; there was real fear in his eyes.
‘You know that Brett won’t even think about helping us if I don’t see him. We’re running out of time Sean!’ Emma’s eyes filled with tears as she looked up at her brother. Her wages working in the café were barely enough for her to keep a roof over her head, and when Sean had turned up on her doorstep four nights ago, she swore she would do anything to help him.
She hadn’t seen Sean since he had left home, and the joy she had felt when she opened her door had quickly been replaced by horror as she heard how much trouble he was in. Sean’s drug habit had become very expensive, and he had borrowed money. A friend had seen how much trouble he was getting into, and had dragged him into the rehabilitation centre, where Sean was slowly putting his life back together. He had been clean for three months now, and the carers at the rehab centre had become an important and very necessary part of his life.
There was, however, a legacy of his drug taking days; the borrowed money had to be repaid, and the debt was being called. If the money wasn’t paid back by the end of the week, Sean’s life was being threatened, and he was fearful that his creditors would follow through on their promises. When Sean had explained the dilemma he was in, Emma had been at a loss. She certainly didn’t have the money, so, in desperation, they had agreed to Sean’s friend’s suggestion that they sell something of value. Emma contacted her ex-boyfriend Brett, who, she had discovered to her dismay, had a shady past, and Emma had arranged to meet him, telling him that she had a collector’s item that she needed to sell. The only catch – Emma didn’t own anything of enough value to cover Sean’s debt, and so had decided that she would have to find something to sell.
Emma often walked past the boutique, and would stop to gaze at the beautiful, and valuable, artwork and antiques in the window. Sean hadn’t been able to come up with an alternative suggestion, and so Emma had found herself in the boutique, trying to find something small and valuable enough to take. Looking now at Sean, she couldn’t believe that she had actually escaped without being caught. Now that she had the egg, the enormity of her actions was starting to sink in, but it was too late to go back now. Besides, they didn’t have time to do anything else; Sean was in serious danger, and he had come to her for help.
‘I had better call Mick; I need to make sure that everything is still okay for tonight.’ Emma’s voice was shaky, and Sean just looked at her helplessly.
‘I can’t let you do this, sis! I have to think of some other way to get the money.’
‘It’s too late, Sean. We don’t have time, and I have to get rid of this egg. Could you imagine what would happen if anyone found it here? It’s very valuable, and doesn’t exactly fit in with these surroundings!’ Emma swept her arm in an arc, wryly indicating the shabby room. ‘How about a cup of coffee? I know I could use one!’
~~~~
This was not going to be easy. She had walked away from this man who had not been who she had thought he was; they were a complete mismatch, and she had been a fool. But desperation had brought her back to this place.
Pausing outside the gate, Emma gazed up at the beautifully restored terrace house where she had spent many hours discussing interesting topics with Brett, discussions that usually ended up with her lying in his bed, wondering why their sexual relationship was so one sided. On an intellectual level, she found Brett to be stimulating company, but in bed, he was a three minute wonder who thought that a quick kiss and a ‘was that something or what!’ constituted after play. ‘At least there is after play’ was Emma’s consoling thought; the foreplay was non-existent.
Taking a deep breath, Emma pushed open the gate, her nerves jangling at the familiar screeched. Brett had sounded much too smug when Emma had called him yesterday, and she was incensed to think that he thought she was trying to get back into his life. Their last encounter had been a nightmare, and it was only through sheer desperation that she had even considered contacting him. Emma had just discovered that Brett’s wealth wasn’t generated through honest, hard work, but that he dealt in black-market and stolen goods.
The memories of their last moments together were not pleasant as she recalled their last argument.
‘But it’s illegal, Brett.’ Emma couldn’t keep the shock and accusation from her voice.
‘Cool it Babe. You didn’t honestly think that I could live here with all of this and give you pretty birthday presents working as an accountant, did you?’
‘A good accountant makes good money; I thought you said you had a few private clients.’ Emma was desperately trying to come to terms with her discovery.
‘And you conveniently didn’t ask if they were accounting clients. I knew you would go all screwy if you had any idea about my little sideline. Deal with it.’ Brett lit one of the expensive imported cigarettes he loved, and which made Emma feel ill.
‘Well. If that’s the way you are going to be, I’ll deal with it all right! Have your stupid gift,’ she tore the delicate diamond pendant she had worn so proudly from around her neck, ‘and give it to some other schmuck. It’s probably illegally gained anyway.’ Emma threw the necklace at Brett’s feet.
‘Don’t be silly. I paid for it myself, and you love that thing.’ Brett’s good looking face sneered at her through the haze of smoke.
‘I don’t want it, and I don’t want anything to do with you. I’m getting my things and I’m leaving.’ Emma started to go into the bedroom where she had a few personal possessions. She had resisted Brett’s pleas with her to move in permanently, not sure that she wanted to surrender her independence this early in their relationship. They had only been seeing each other for two months, and she had been wary of his quick attachment to her, suspecting that there was more to his affection.
‘I don’t think so Sweetcakes.’ Emma swung around as Brett gripped her upper arm.
‘Let me go, you thieving snake. I can’t bear for you to touch me.’ The green fire flashing at Brett was warning him that he was pushing her too far.
‘You weren’t saying that last night!’ Brett leered at her, and Emma grimaced at the memory of yet another unsatisfactory lovemaking session.
‘As I recall, I wasn’t saying anything.’
‘No, you never do. You’re a frigid little thing, but at least with you I don’t have to get into all of that boring fondling rubbish women always want.’ Brett’s gaze was one of petulant disdain, and Emma was finally able to see through the charming façade to the real person beneath.
‘You are the most boorish, selfish, insensitive sod I’ve ever had the misfortune to meet. Now, let me go, or I’ll scream so loud that the whole neighborhood with hear me.’
‘Uh huh, I still don’t think I’m going to let you go. I’m having too much fun with you like this; you don’t know how much you are turning me on. I like this new feisty you.’ Brett dragged her against him, yanking her head back with her hair and smothering her scream with his mouth. Emma started kicking him, her free hand pummeling his chest as she squirmed to get out of his vice-like grip. ‘Oh Babe, I’m enjoying this.’ Brett lifted his head just long enough to mutter the words, and to Emma’s dismay, she could feel his excitement for herself. He was much too strong for her, and her panicking mind couldn’t think of any way to get out of his embrace.
‘Start screaming and I’ll do more than pull your hair.’ Brett glared down at her with a mix of lust and anger, and Emma looked at his raised hand, the message clear. ‘Are you going to be quiet?’ The menacing growl of his voice was edged with anticipation, as if he was hoping that she would start screaming so that he had the excuse he was looking for. Emma nodded, wincing as the action increased the pull on her straining hair.
It was only a short time later, but it had seemed like an eternity, and Brett had finally fallen asleep after brief and humiliating sex. Very quietly, Emma had risen, gathered her scattered and torn clothes and left the house, not bothering to collect the few items she had there. They were easily replaced; her pride would take much longer.
Coming back to the present, Emma knocked on the door, only to be met by a tall, scantily clad bottle blond.
‘I’ll see you later honey.’ The blonde’s voice was little girlish as she called back into the house, and Emma winced as the pathetic creature turned and smiled wanly at her. It didn’t look like Brett had taken long to get over her; they had only broken up ten days ago. Emma let the blond brush past her, ignoring the curious look, and slowly, but determinedly walked up to the door.
‘Brett?’ Emma pushed the door open and stepped into the hallway. She walked into an adjoining room where Brett languished on a chaise.
‘Hiya Babe! Knew you wouldn’t be able to stay away. Come here.’ Brett rose and reached out to grab her, but Emma took a hasty side step. The smell of marijuana assailed her nostrils, and she again questioned her wisdom in having anything to do with this creep.
Emma brandished a small can of pepper spray.
‘Just stay where you are Brett. I told you I needed some information when I called. This hasn’t anything to do with you and me; we are through, and if you come any closer, I’ll use this and call the police.’ Her shudder of disgust made Brett stop as his drugged mind tried to take in what she had said. She watched as he slowly sank back onto the lounge.
‘I need some money, so I need to sell something. I know you have a contact, and I want you to tell me where I can find him.’
The meeting with Brett had gone better than she could have hoped. She didn’t want to know what drugs he had taken, but he seemed easily frightened, and was quick to give her the information she wanted when she threatened him with the pepper spray. He gave her a name that could be helpful, and she was now nervously staring out of the window of a cab as it cruised through rubbish filled streets.
The cab pulled up outside a rundown building, and Emma checked the address she had been given by Brett’s shady colleague. Mick had said not to worry about the neighborhood – it looked a lot more dangerous than it really was. Emma sincerely hoped he was right. The journey in the cab had taken her through progressively poorer suburbs, and onto the docks, until Emma had to force herself to go on. Her driver had sent a few questioning glances in her direction, and when he came to a stop outside the dilapidated warehouse, he asked Emma if she wanted him to wait for her. The thought was tempting; it would be nice knowing that there was a relatively friendly face waiting for her. Then an idea struck her.
‘Would you mind coming back in, say, half an hour, please?’
‘Sure. I'd wait for you, but I would have to keep the meter running.’ The driver shrugged to indicate that he didn’t having to do that, but Emma guessed that he would be risking his job to do such a thing. Unfortunately, Emma simply didn’t have the money to cover the cost of a chaperone.
‘That’s okay; I’m meeting someone, but I should be ready to leave in half an hour.’
‘I'll be here.’ With that reassurance, Emma opened the door and walked up the short flight of steps to the front door.
Her knock on the door was answered almost immediately; looked like she was expected! The face greeting her was unassuming, and didn’t look like the frightening criminal element she had been expecting to see. No words were exchanged as the door was opened, and Emma stepped in.
The room was bare except for a pile of old boxes in the corner; obviously it wasn’t used for anything except a meeting place for black market dealings in expensive stolen goods. The only other person in the room was a man of medium height, with shadowed cheeks, and deep set, staring eyes, who Emma assumed to be Mick. Her assumption was confirmed when Mick spoke.
‘Okay, let’s have a look at what you’ve got.’ Emma drew the egg from her bag, and carefully handed it over.
‘I’ve seen these before. They’re easy to move, and collectors rarely struggle with the price. They’re expensive to buy legally. I'll buy it from you, lady, and then I don’t ever want to see your face again, is that clear?’
Emma nodded quickly; she was more than happy to agree to that arrangement. She was further relieved to hear the money Mick was willing to pay her for the egg; it was more than enough to cover Sean’s debt, and might even be enough to buy him some new clothes. Mick took a roll of money out of his pocket which Emma tried hard not to stare at, and peeled off several large denomination bills. Mick held them out to her and she took them with shaking hands. This represented more than four months salary and she hurriedly tucked it into her bag.
‘Aren’t you going to count it?’ Mick smirked at her mockingly, knowing that she was absolutely terrified. ‘There’s not much truth in the saying ‘honor between thieves’ you know.’
Emma simply smiled faintly back at him, shaking her head. Just as she was about to thank him for his help, the door crashed open and two gun-wielding men stood waving their weapons and shouting.
‘Don’t anyone move. You’re all under arrest. Everyone, down on the floor with your hands where we can see ‘em.’ Emma’s heart was racing. This was a disaster! What was going to happen to her now?
‘Put your hands where I can see them, miss, and don’t make any sudden moves.’ Emma stared at the gun, the barrel pointing at her seeming to grow larger with each passing second.
‘Please, you don’t understand.’ Emma was shaking so badly, and her heart was pounding so loudly, she was sure that she would be shot just to make her quiet.
‘Sweetheart, we understand perfectly. You’re being arrested for theft, and the sale of stolen goods. Do you understand that anything you say can……….’
Emma didn’t hear the rest of what was said. She was being arrested! All of her plans were a crumpled mess around her feet as her hands were pulled behind her back, and handcuffs clicked around her wrists. What would happen to Sean now? Without her to help him, he had no way of getting the money he so desperately needed, and she shuddered to think of what would happen to him. As Emma was taken outside to the waiting police car, her heart sank for her brother. Then it suddenly occurred to her; she was in a lot of trouble herself, and who was going to help her?
The journey to the police station went quickly, and Emma soon found herself in a room with the two arresting officers, and a lawyer who had been assigned to her. The lawyer asked to be alone with her, which was fine with Emma. She needed to explain what she had done to someone who may be able to help her out of this mess.
‘Please, can you help me? I’m not a thief, well, I mean, I guess this time I’m, but once I explain why I did it, I’m sure you will understand. Please, I can’t go to jail. My brother is in trouble and needs that money, and….’ The enormity of her dilemma hit her, and Emma put her face in her hands, wishing with all her heart that she could go back to her dreary apartment, shut the door and wake up in her bed, all of this an ugly nightmare.
Once she had explained the situation, her hopes of being rescued were dashed. The lawyer explained to her that breaking the law was breaking the law, no matter what the reason. She was going to go to jail!
~~~~
‘He has ulterior motives!’ Sean was outraged, and was pacing the floor, waving the contract above his head. ‘He is some sort of psychopath, a power hungry maniac who wants to control your life. You can’t even contemplate this madman’s offer!’
‘Sean, what is the alternative? I was caught red-handed. There is video footage, and I was in the middle of the deal when the police burst in. We were fools to think we could get away with such a scheme. Besides, if I agree to the terms of the contract, your debt will be paid, you will be safe, and I won’t have to go to prison.’
Unable to fully comprehend Enrico Lopez's offer, Emma had pleaded to be allowed to speak with Sean, and had showed him the contract. The offer was bizarre and, taking into account Emma’s position and recent actions, very generous.
‘Enrico Lopez is willing to drop the charges of theft if I agree to accompany him on this trip into the Amazon jungle. It’s only four months at most, much less time than I’m likely to get in prison. All I have to do is assist with the day to day chores, and keep a journal of the expedition for Enrico, so that he will be able to complete some project he is working on.’
Emma couldn’t help being excited at the idea now that she had had some time to think about it; she had never had the opportunity to travel and it all sounded very exotic. Part of the agreement included a loan to cover Sean’s debt, the money to be considered paid upon completion of the journey. To Emma, the whole deal seemed very generous, and although it wasn’t exactly a luxury holiday, she wouldn’t have to worry about her brother. There was, of course, the added bonus of no jail term, and no criminal record. She really didn’t see how she could refuse.
‘I have to accept the offer, Sean. It will mean you are safe, and I won’t have a criminal conviction against me. Do you know how those things can haunt you later on in life? I really don’t have any choice.’
‘Hell Sis, you don’t know anything about this Enrico Lopez. What does he do for a living? He might be some drug lord, dragging you into his seedy world, and you could end up hooked on cocaine, being sold as some sort of slave to any man who wants you!’
‘Don’t be ridiculous, Sean. He looks completely respectable. Besides, life would be just as bad inside prison. I have made up my mind; I’m going to accept the offer, and in four months time, I will be free, and able to get on with my life.’
Emma’s mind was made up. She would go to South America, and pay her debt to this man. Her only concern was the Amazon; she was a city girl, and the closest she had ever been to a jungle was walking through the botanical gardens on sunny spring days. She certainly hoped that this trek into the jungle wouldn’t take her too far from civilization, and the comforts of home.
~~~~
When Enrico and his lawyer returned the following afternoon, Emma walked into the visitor’s room with her head held high, and a steely resolution glinting in her eyes. This man may think he owned her for the next four months, but he was going to learn that there were still limitations on his hold over her. She wasn’t his slave or prisoner, and he would do well to remember that she was a human being who deserved respect! As she sat down in front of the two men, she couldn’t help but see the glimmer of amusement in Enrico’s eyes. So, he thought this whole situation was funny did he? Well, he might think that he had total control over this situation, but he had better not underestimate Emma Gatton!
‘Well, Miss Gatton, have you made your decision?’ The lawyer had still not come to terms with his employer’s offer, and the disapproval evident in his voice only made Emma’s resolve stronger. She noticed that the amusement in Enrico’s eyes extended to his sensuous mouth as he listened to his lawyer’s tone of voice.
‘I will accept the proposal, however, I wish to make a few things very clear.’
Emma noticed the incredulous raising of the lawyer’s eyebrows at her effrontery, but she pressed on, addressing Enrico Lopez. ‘I have committed a crime against you, to that I admit. I’m sorry for any harm I have caused you. I do not know what your motives are for this proposal, however, for this opportunity, I’m grateful. I’m to perform the duties as outlined in the contract; daily chores to assist with living conditions and the maintenance of the journal for Mr Lopez. I’m not your property and you will do well to remember that. I won’t do anything against my will, and demand that you respect my morals.’
Emma hadn’t meant for it to sound so formal, however, she was determined that both men understand that she wasn’t to be used in any way other than those outlined in the contract. She wanted to be sure that Enrico Lopez understood her position clearly, and respected her wishes. He wasn’t to think that his generous offer entitled him to any extra grateful behavior on her part.
‘I’m not sure that I understand you.’ The open laughter in Enrico’s eyes infuriated Emma, and she knew that he understood her perfectly.
‘I’m not a whore Mr Lopez; don’t think that your offer entitles you to sex.’ Emma squared her shoulders and gazed at Enrico levelly. If he wanted to be obtuse, she would be direct.
‘I assure you Miss Gatton, I do not need to go to this much trouble to get a woman into my bed. Little effort is usually required.’ The challenging gleam in those black eyes dared Emma to retort but she firmly kept her lips together.
The lawyer broke the sizzling silence.
‘The contract clearly states your obligations Miss Gatton. Any other actions on your part will be a private negotiation between yourself and the second party involved.’ The lawyer looked through the contract to ensure that Emma had signed in the appropriate places, and handed it to his employer.
Enrico glanced over the document, and countersigned, making the contract final. Enrico looked at Emma, those dark eyes appraising her, and Emma felt once again the power of the man and a shudder ran down her spine.
What have I done? The thought flashed through her mind, and the knowing glint in Enrico’s eyes stiffened her resolve. He thought he could frighten her, did he? Did he think she was going to try to run, be the spineless criminal he thought she was? She was determined to prove to this man that she was a person of value, someone with integrity and honor, a woman whose love for her family came before anything else. She knew that she had wronged this man, but her actions had been forced upon her because of a temporary circumstance, and a situation where her loved one was in serious danger. Emma would repay her debt to this man, and in the process, show him that his first impression of her was unfair. Once her debt to him was paid, she would end her association with him and get on with her life.
‘Well Emma, I will start to arrange for your official release into my custody. I hope that we will be able to proceed with our relationship in a less formal manner. Call me Enrico, and I trust that you won’t object if I call you Emma.’
‘Of course I would prefer it that way. If that is all gentlemen, I will wait until the red tape has been completed, and meet you when I’m released.’ Emma was determined to regain some dignity.
‘I’m looking forward to our association, Emma.’
Once again, the dark eyes held that mocking humor which so infuriated Emma. The only way she would be able to deal with it and keep her temper would be to ignore it. She wasn’t going to give this arrogant man the satisfaction of getting her to lose her cool. Her father’s green eyes and rich auburn hair had been his greatest legacy to her, and she had spent many years learning to control the temper that went with them.
Emma nodded to the lawyer and turned on her heel to leave the room. She chose to ignore Enrico’s parting comment.
‘I trust that you will abide the contract Emma and respect my morals also.’
Rich laughter followed her through the door, and she once again questioned her decision. Enrico’s lawyer had said that his employer didn’t tolerate indecision, and Emma never went back on her word.
Perhaps Sean was right; the man might have ulterior motives, but what could they possibly be? He didn’t know her, and their first meeting hadn’t been auspicious. Why would he be doing this? What did he have to gain from dragging her into the jungles of South America on an expedition through some of the least explored terrain on earth, when she had no experience and would be little more than a hindrance?
At the same time it was all very exciting. Emma didn’t get the chance to travel, and South America certainly sounded exotic. A rich culture, full of music and romance; maybe her drab existence was about to be left behind forever.
~~~~
The following day, Emma was released from custody and the feeling of freedom was wonderful. She hadn’t realized how afraid and confined she had been feeling.
Enrico was waiting for her as she signed for her possessions, and she was able to take proper notice of him for the first time. He was a striking man, with a powerful presence that she had only felt briefly in her previous meetings with him. She couldn’t help feeling the power of his attractiveness, and his well-defined Latin features would melt many women’s hearts.
The broad shoulders sat easily beneath the expensive fabric of his coat, and there was a spattering of chest hair curling above the open neck of his shirt. Long, lean legs extended from trim hips, and the whole, masculine package exuded an animal magnetism, which Emma found disturbingly compelling.
Emma couldn’t help but wish that she had met this man under different circumstances. He was downright sexy, and she found herself wondering what it would be like to be held by those strong arms, to be able to run her fingers through the glossy black hair and to feel the heat of his dark eyes burning into her very soul.
Emma shook herself, and brought her mind back to reality. This man could have any woman he wanted, and, although he had her for the next four months, it wasn’t exactly in the way she thought she might like. Time to get a grip, kiddo, she told herself. This man was her boss, and she had a debt to repay. He was probably getting a great kick out of the power he held over her, and it was up to her to maintain her dignity, and to show this man that she wasn’t the foolish petty criminal he must think she was. Besides, that chauvinistic, mocking arrogance had never been something she looked for in a man.
‘Ready to go, Emma? I have arranged for some of your clothes to be sent to my apartment where we will be staying for the next few days.’
‘Your apartment? No, I don’t think so. I have a perfectly fine home to go to.’
‘You are in my custody Emma. It’s because of me that you are out of jail. We go to my place.’ Enrico’s tone of voice was implacable, and Emma was galled at the reminder of her situation.
‘Very well.’ Emma’s tone was curt, and she kept her face neutral as Enrico shot a quick look at her.
‘We have a few things to buy before we leave the country as there are a number of things you will need that we won’t be able to get once we are in South America. We also need to finalize your documents, and you will need to have some shots. Your flights have been booked, and I have taken the liberty of getting appropriate luggage for you. Tomorrow, we will go shopping together, as you will need a suitable wardrobe, and I’m sure that you won’t know the best gear to get.’
His tone of voice was neutral, and Emma studied his face to discern his thoughts, however his face was closed to her. Those dark, enigmatic eyes were giving nothing away, and she was relieved to see that the mocking humor she was coming to expect wasn’t evident in his gaze. He seemed rather distracted, and she assumed it was because he had a lot on his mind, especially now that he had a new expedition member.
‘I don’t believe I have thanked you for your help with my brother, and for dropping the charges against me. I’m not a thief, or a criminal; I was in a desperate situation, and chose a foolish path to try and save my brother’s life.’ Emma felt obliged to express her thanks and she tried to sound grateful, but her words were clipped.
‘Your reasons may have been honorable, but that doesn’t change the fact that what you did was illegal. If you are trying to get out of the contract, believe me when I say that I do not go back on my word, and I expect the same of those around me.’ Steeliness had crept into his eyes and voice, and Emma was driven to retort angrily.
‘I’m a person of my word, and you insult me by thinking that I may be trying to get out of your stupid contract. I will do as I promised, and after we have finished, you can rest assured that you will never have to set eyes on me again. And quite frankly, the four months cannot go by fast enough!’ Green fire flashed from her eyes, and she quickly lowered her head so that he wouldn’t see her anger.
She couldn’t let him think he was getting to her; he already had enough control over her life. So, he was going to lord it over her, was he? Well, let him play his power game; she wasn’t going to give him the satisfaction of getting under her skin. To think, just moments ago, she had been wondering what it would feel like to have this arrogant man’s arms around her! She would fulfill her side of the contract, and then get out of his life forever. Emma was confused by her desire to prove to this man that she was more than a thief, and shrugged it off as disappointment that the adventure she was about to embark upon was starting so badly.
CHAPTER TWO
Enrico’s apartment was luxurious to say the least, a two level penthouse in the heart of Sydney. Emma’s mind couldn’t begin to comprehend the amount of money it was worth. It was a far cry from her humble flat.
‘Welcome to my home Emma. I’m sure that you will be comfortable.’ Enrico walked with casual familiarity through the apartment and showed Emma to her room, which was a dream of rich silks and exotic tapestries.
‘This looks like something out of Arabian Nights!’ Emma couldn’t help an impressed laugh at the opulence of her room.
‘If you do not like it, I can show you another room.’ Enrico’s tone of voice was mild, and Emma wondered if she had offended him.
‘No thank you; this will be fine. It’s lovely; I just never dreamed that I would sleep somewhere so luxurious.’
‘When you have settled and refreshed yourself, we will do some shopping. We don’t have much time, and I have a number of important things to see to before we leave.’ Enrico left without waiting for her reply, and Emma shook off feelings of guilt, as it was obvious that he had a lot on his mind.
‘Thank you for giving me some time to clean up and change.’ Emma had showered quickly, not wanting to keep Enrico waiting. He too had changed, and was looking over some papers when Emma joined him in the living room.
‘Well, if you are ready, let’s go.
‘You know, I can’t afford to get very much. I’m sure that I can rustle something suitable up from my own stuff.’ Emma had been fretting about the expense of a new wardrobe and had been mentally sifting through her cupboards at home.
‘I do not expect you to pay for your kit. I understand that you are in no position to do so, and it’s at my request that you are joining me. I will expect you to have good quality gear; there is no point going poorly prepared, that would only cause problems later on.’
‘I’m hardly going ‘at your request’! You really didn’t leave me much choice. If I’m going to be such a burden, why on earth did you suggest that I travel with you?’ Emma was still perplexed at being thrust into his life like this, and was feeling frustrated at not knowing Enrico’s motives.
‘You won’t be a burden; I’ll work you harder than you’ve ever worked before, don’t worry about that. I needed someone to keep a record of our progress, and the rest of my team members have specialized qualifications. You’ll do for the job.’
‘Well, thank you for making me feel worthwhile! This was all your idea, not mine, remember?’ Emma was letting his offhand manner get to her, and she didn’t know why, which was making her madder.
‘I don’t think you’ll let me forget!’
‘Are we going shopping or not?’ Emma could see that this conversation was just going to get more and more pointless, and if she was going to have to spend the next few hours shopping with this infuriating man, she wanted to get it over and done with. Grabbing her bag, she threw Enrico a challenging glare and walked to the door, yanking it open and making her way to the lift. She was tapping her foot impatiently when her senses were assailed by expensive aftershave.
‘It never ceases to amaze me how fast a woman can move when she is going to go shopping.’ The dulcet tones of Enrico’s voice floated across the foyer, but Emma refused to rise to the bait. She was going to speak to him only when it was related to the job at hand, and with any luck would make it through this day with her sanity.
~~~~
The next few days flew by in a flurry of frantic shopping, and many arguments about what was and wasn’t needed for the expedition. Emma’s ideas for clothing was much too fashionable for Enrico’s taste, and it seemed to her that he was determined to oppose her every idea, and make her look and feel as drab as possible. At last her bags were packed to his approval, and she was doing a final check that she had everything she would need, when there was a knock at the door. When she opened it, she was greeted by one of the hotel staff carrying a number of packages.
‘Mr Lopez asked that you be ready to join him at seven o’clock, Miss. He also requested that you let him know if anything here isn’t suitable.’
Emma took the boxes which were handed to her, and closed the door quickly, eager to see what was in the parcels. She loved surprises, and was curious about the upcoming evening. Enrico had asked her to join him for dinner that night. He had been busy organizing business prior to his departure, and hadn’t invited Emma to join him for dinner until now. She had been in a state over what to wear, but it appeared that Enrico had come to her rescue.
Emma’s pleasure increased as each box revealed its hidden treasures. Obviously, the last few days had given Enrico a good idea of her size, and his taste in eveningwear couldn’t be faulted. The gown was emerald silk, which she knew would do wonders for her eyes, and its strapless design and tightly fitting bodice showed off her creamy skin to perfection. The sheer simplicity of the dress and elegant cut was so flattering that Emma kept looking at herself in the mirror to admire the amazing transformation. She decided to wear her hair pulled back from her face, and clasped on top of her head so that a riot of rich curls fell over one shoulder. The shoes and purse that Enrico had included with the dress were a perfect match, but Emma couldn’t help but wish she had suitable jewelry to finish her look.
She was just putting the finishing touches to her hair when a knock at the door heralded Enrico’s arrival. Her heartbeat was suddenly a deafening pounding in her ears, and she was dismayed to find that she felt like a nervous schoolgirl on her first date. This was no doubt Enrico’s idea of a last fling of civilization before their trek began. She would do well to remember that he wouldn’t be thinking of this as a date, but probably an obligation he had to fulfill with a foolish girl who had been thrust into his life. Besides, he had done nothing to make her feel any fondness for him at all.
His attitude to her over the past days had been aloof, and at times, condescending, treating her like a naïve schoolgirl whom had no idea of the real world. He had left her in no doubt about his opinion of her – she was little more than a nuisance, and she was sure that he was regretting his impetuous offer to give her an alternative option for her foolish actions. Besides, he was everything she disliked in a man, arrogant, self-assured and much too used to getting his own way. There was no way that a man like Enrico Lopez could ever be a permanent part of her life.