Read Online Local Hero by Nora Roberts - Free Book Online Page A

business.”
    â€œIf people only talked about what was their business, they wouldn’t get very far. You don’t strike me as a man-hater, Hester.”
    She lifted a brow. When pushed, she could play the game by someone else’s rules. And she could play it well. “I went through a period of time when I despised men on principle. Actually, it was a very rewarding time of my life. Then, gradually, I came to the opinion that some members of your species weren’t lower forms of life.”
    â€œSounds promising.”
    She smiled again, because he made it easy. “The point is, I don’t blame all men for the faults of one.”
    â€œYou’re just cautious.”
    â€œIf you like.”
    â€œThe one thing I’m sure I like is your eyes. No, don’t look away.” Patiently, he turned her face back to his. “They’re fabulous—take it from an artist’s standpoint.”
    She had to stop being so jumpy, Hester ordered herself. With an effort, she remained still. “Does that mean they’re going to appear in an upcoming issue?”
    â€œThey just might.” He smiled, appreciating the thought and the fact that though tense, she was able to hold her own. “Poor old Zark deserves to meet someone who understands him. These eyes would.”
    â€œI’ll take that as a compliment.” And run. “The boys will be back in a minute.”
    â€œWe’ve got some time yet. Hester, do you ever have fun?”
    â€œWhat a stupid question. Of course I do.”
    â€œNot as Rad’s mother, but as Hester.” He ran a hand through her hair, captivated.
    â€œI
am
Rad’s mother.” Though she managed to rise, he stood with her.
    â€œYou’re also a woman. A gorgeous one.” He saw the look in her eyes and ran his thumb along her jawline. “Take my word for it. I’m an honest man. You’re one gorgeous bundle of nerves.”
    â€œThat’s silly. I don’t have anything to be nervous about.” Other than the fact that he was touching her, and his voice was quiet, and the apartment was empty.
    â€œI’ll take the shaft out of my heart later,” he murmured. He bent to kiss her, then had to catch her when she nearly stumbled over the newspapers. “Take it easy. I’m not going to bite you. This time.”
    â€œI have to go.” She was as close to panic as she ever allowed herself to come. “I have a dozen things to do.”
    â€œIn a minute.” He framed her face. She was trembling, he realized. It didn’t surprise him. What did was that he wasn’t steady himself. “What we have here, Mrs. Wallace, is called attraction, chemistry, lust. It doesn’t really matter what label you put on it.”
    â€œMaybe not to you.”
    â€œThen we’ll let you pick the label later.” He stroked his thumbs over her cheekbones, gently, soothingly. “I already told you I’m not a maniac. I’ll have to remember to get those references.”
    â€œMitch, I told you I appreciate what you’re doing for Rad, but I wish you’d—”
    â€œHere and now doesn’t concern Rad. This is you and me, Hester. When was the last time you let yourself be alone with a man who wanted you?” He casually brushed his thumb over her lips. Her eyes went to smoke. “When was the last time you let anyone do this?”
    His mouth covered hers quickly, with a force that came as a shock. She hadn’t been prepared for violence. His hands had been so gentle, his voice so soothing. She hadn’t expected this edgy passion. But God, how she’d wanted it. With the same reckless need, she threw her arms around his neck and answered demand for demand.
    â€œToo long,” Mitch managed breathlessly when he tore his mouth from hers. “Thank God.” Before she could utter more than a moan, he took her mouth again.
    He hadn’t been sure what