The Ghosts Of Her Past (A Completed, Steamy Romantic Mystery)

Part Twenty Two

When morning came, I stretched before I realized I wasn't at home and nearly jumped out of bed.  I gained my senses, then barely made it to the bathroom to pee. That's a new pregnancy symptom, but at least I don't feel sick.  That reminded me to take my vitamin before going downstairs.

I enjoyed a hot shower before slipping into a pair of jeans, a sweater, and doing my hair and makeup.  I wore my hair down and just added a few waves, then slipped on my ankle boots.  I should have packed better, my poor feet are sore from wearing heels.  That's a new issue too, I practically live in heels, but lately my feet beg me to take them off.

I honestly wish I would have a little free time to go bra shopping. My boobs are tender and swollen, my current bras are getting too tight. 

I called Gray before going back downstairs.  He's in Seattle, and I forgot about the time difference of three hours, so I got him out of bed.  He was concerned because he had not heard from me, and I explained the situation.  I did leave out the dangers Blaine keeps warning about.  Knowing Gray, he would be on the next flight to New York to get me out of this place.  I feel more at ease with Lisa's family, so it would be unnecessary to worry him. 

He seems very excited about the baby and kept me on the line a little longer than expected.  I left the room and went downstairs, but I was unsure where to go until a member of their staff led me to the dining room.  The moment I stepped inside, Blaine and his father stood, and I paused a moment to look at the strange duo. 

Blaine truly is one of the most attractive men I've ever laid my eyes on, and he's actually in jeans and a button-up, which just confirms he has an amazing body.  What the hell is wrong with me?  I snapped out of it and took steps toward the staff member holding my chair. The men didn't sit until I did, which again, these people have far too many good manners.

"Good morning, Miss Ashley.  I do hope you found your accommodations suitable?" Mr. Lowell asked. 

"Please, call me Cora, and, yes, I slept quite well.  Will Mrs. Lowell join us soon?" I asked.

He shook his head.  "I'm afraid she has taken to her bed with grief.  I do apologize for her absence." He said.

"Oh, no apologies necessary.  I can't say I did much different when I first got the news." I said, then looked at Blaine.  "Good morning." He just gave me a nod.  I guess jabber jaws has climbed back into his shell.

I put my hand over the coffee cup sitting in front of me when one of the staff tried to pour some, then I spotted the orange juice. 

"Just orange juice would be great, thank you," I said. 

The table was quiet while I awkwardly ate breakfast.  I'm actually hungry today, which is a good sign. 

"Thank you for all your hospitality, but I do have a flight booked here in a few hours," I said. 

"What time is your appointment tomorrow?" Blaine asked.

Why does that matter to him?

"It's at 3:30."

"I need you for the day, and I will have you home in plenty of time for your appointment." He said.

"Do I get a choice in this matter?  I do enjoy my independence, and I have never allowed anyone to micromanage my life." I snapped at him.  How dare he keep acting like I'm his prisoner, or some kind of submissive woman that is available at his every demand.  I heard his father chuckle and Blaine glared at me.

"Do you want to look over your shoulder every time you turn around, or would you like for this to be over so you can get on with your life?" He doesn't sound thrilled, so I guess the booze is out of his system, no more mister nice guy. 

"Do you want to treat me with some courtesy and respect my time?  If not, you're on your own.  I survived six years living in the same home with your sister, I'll survive again." I said, but I know he's right, I just can't give him the satisfaction. 

He shook his head.  "You're a stubborn woman, Miss Ashley.  I would suggest being more grateful so you can live to see another day."

"Grateful?  I don't even know you.  Do you think it was easy to comply yesterday when you demanded I stay in this house all night?  For all I know, you could be just as dangerous as the man you claim wants to hurt me." I argued.

"Hurt you?  He doesn't just want to hurt you, he wants to torture you until he realizes you don't know anything, then he will kill you!" He argued back. 

His father stood.  "That's enough, and she is correct, son.  She doesn't know us, and we are strangers.  She also doesn't have to help, so I suggest you ask her nicely if she will stay another night."

Blaine shut his eyes to try and calm down, then took a deep breath before he opened them again.

"No wonder you were Cassidy's friend, you're both stubborn and you see where that got her." He sat and forward and glared at me, while I crossed my arms and stared him down.  This man is spoiled and obviously accustomed to people kissing his ass.

"Fine, Miss Ashley.  Would you please be kind enough to assist me in finding my niece or nephew?  In exchange, I will provide you with protection and safety." He said.

I smirked at my small victory.  "Thank you, Mr. Lowell.  I appreciate your concern, and, yes, I will help, but only if you give me your word that I will be home in time for my very important appointment."

He shook his head, and I think I saw a tiny smirk he tried to hide.  "Yes, and thank you for your help." He's trying to act pissed, but I can see he must have somewhat enjoyed our little exchange.  Stubborn, I scoff at that accusation.