Aegean Intrigue Read Free Page A

returned. “Thank you for your help.”
    â€œIt was no problem.” He matched his steps to hers and found she walked with an athletic gait. Her jeans covered her long legs, but he could easily imagine how those legs would look—lean and tanned. He forced his mind to return to the task at hand. “Will the incident have an effect on your employment?”
    â€œI suppose it will. I’m grateful for the dig opportunity. It’s the perfect excuse for leaving.” She frowned. “Of course, I’ll need to replace the income from the restaurant, unless you need another cook besides Dimitri.” She turned her beautiful, brown eyes toward him, and his heart melted at the hopefulness in them.
    Alex cleared his throat, forcing himself to concentrate on the conversation. “With such a small crew, he shouldn't need an assistant,” he explained.
    Her face fell and the first seeds of doubt took root in Alex’s mind. If she was as guilty as Zotis claimed, why would she be so anxious for menial work? Wouldn’t she have been compensated for prior heists? Besides, she was the daughter of a world-famous scientist and a Hollywood actress. Surely she didn’t have to provide for herself? Something wasn’t right.
    â€œPerhaps I can suggest something for now.” Glancing to confirm he had her attention, he continued. “I'm sure the professor knows what he's doing as far as the actual dig, but he seems to be a bit unsure about electronic communication. Several of his reports need to be turned in online, and I know he would appreciate your help. There has also been interest in keeping a blog, so students elsewhere can see what we’re doing. You would, of course, be compensated for your time.”
    The glow lighting her face made Alex’s heart soar. He would have promised her anything to keep it there. But he quickly dampened his eagerness. He could not, would not, take on the responsibility for someone else’s happiness. It led only to heartbreak. He forced himself to remember the pain of the last betrayal. He looked away, only half-listening to Francie express her gratitude and promise to do her best.
    It was going to be a long summer. If he had any sense at all, he would leave her now and go back to his office. Instead, he heard himself ask, “Have you eaten lunch yet?”

Chapter Three
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    â€œLunch?”
    â€œThe meal between breakfast and supper.”
    The light in her eyes disappeared, and her expression closed. “Very funny. I’m wondering why I would want you and my lunch in the same room.”
    â€œOuch. Have I offended you? Or am I so difficult to look at?”
    She decided to ignore the second question. It was difficult not to look at the man. Better to go on the offensive. “You’ve been at Kostos’s restaurant, staring at me. Why?”
    â€œYou’re a beautiful woman. Of course, I would stare.” At her snort of disbelief, he laughed. “Truly. I have wanted to meet you, but wasn’t sure how to approach you. Now, I find myself linked with you professionally, and I have the opportunity to get to know you.”
    â€œI’m sure someone like you would never hesitate to approach anyone, professionally or not.”
    â€œNormally, no. But you were preoccupied with your studies, and I wasn’t sure you would welcome the distraction.”
    He had her there. “True, but you didn’t hesitate to step in at my apartment the other night.” Her eyes narrowed. “Why were you there? Did you follow me home?”
    â€œNo, I wasn’t stalking you. I, too, was on my way home. My apartment is near yours.” He must have sensed her skepticism, because he reached for his wallet. “You don’t believe me—here is my driver’s license with my home address.” Pulling out the card, he held it up to her. She recognized the street as one with upscale apartments and hotels. So