Read Online His Perfect Woman (Harlequin Superromance) by Kay Stockham - Free Book Online Page A

others.”
    â€œI agree. And she’ll be back,” her dad said with a nod. “Once the abuse starts it only escalates. I have a feeling we’ll be getting more calls about that girl.”
    The mood around the room darkened even more, but thankfully Bryan changed the topic by asking about the toy drive. From then on Bryan and her dad kept the conversation on lighter subjects and ignored her poor manners and silence. While they discussed town politics, gas prices and upcoming events, she felt the gap between her and her dad widening.
    Finally an hour had gone by, and Melissa pushed herself to her feet. “Um, you know, lunch was great, but I’ve—we’ve got to get going.” Her dad shot her a disappointed look she ignored. “Sorry, but we’ve got a lot of files to go through and put away before I leave to get ready for Ashley’s baby shower. Right now they’re covering the entire reception area.”
    â€œShe’s right,” Bryan agreed, scooting his chair back to stand. “I’m Joe’s entertainment while the ladies are partying, so if I don’t show up to get him, Ashley’ll have my head. Ellen, lunch was phenomenal as always. Thank you.”
    â€œYou’re welcome. I’ll be sure to save some leftovers for you. Come get them this evening for dinner if you like.”
    Melissa watched the exchange, noting her dad didn’t look particularly happy at the thought of Bryan dropping by. Why? Did he know something about the two of them? Had Bryan and Ellen had a thing? If the rumors of his conquests were true…
    Bryan picked up his plate. “How about we help you carry in the dishes?”
    Melissa glanced at her father and flushed when she read his expression. She should’ve been the one to offer, not Bryan. She should’ve thanked her hostess, should’ve been more friendly. Should’ve eaten her food and not been the first to jump to her feet to leave. “The least we can do is clear the table for you.”
    â€œNo, no, don’t worry about that.” Ellen looked as relieved as she was that the gathering had come to an end. “I’ll take care of them, you two go on. The last time I was in that office, it looked like a hurricane had blown through.” Ellen shooed them again. “Leave those dishes alone, and go get your work done so you can have some fun later.”
    Melissa avoided her father and followed Bryan to the dining-room door, adding her goodbyes to his. They made their way through the kitchen and out into the afternoon sun before she could comfortably breathe a sigh. “Thank you so much for talking me into that.”
    Bryan winced. “The claws came out, huh? I thought we’d have to leave when you came into the dining room looking ready for battle. You barely spoke at all and didn’t eat a thing.”
    â€œTrust me, I wasn’t hungry after Ellen pulled me aside for a little talk in the kitchen.”
    â€œAre you that upset that Ellen called me to help you find a job?”
    She nearly stumbled going up the steps. Ellen had called him to —
    Bryan unlocked and opened the door. “She cares for your father, Melissa, no doubt about it. Like I said— What?”
    â€œYou hired me because of her? ” Anger surged through her, propelled by hurt and embarrassment. “How could you— Let go!”
    Bryan had grasped her upper arm and was looking over her shoulder toward Ellen’s home before he maneuvered her inside.
    â€œLet go! ”
    He did. But only after he’d shut the door and placed his broad palm against the metal panel by her head, trapping her. The hair on his forearm teased her cheek and all her senses reacted, leaving her no room to escape.
    â€œWhat do you think you’re doing?” Her breathing became gasping pants she tried to control, every inhalation bringing with it the tantalizing scent of his cologne. Bryan used to