“Hey, Boss, it’s eight-thirty. Aren’t you ready to pack it up for the night?”

David Elliot Matthews looked up from his day planner at one of the firm’s younger lawyers poking his blond head in David’s office. “What are you still doing here?”

Todd shrugged. “Jason and I have the Sandburg’s Metal fraud trial coming up next week. We’re trying to get a head start on the case.”

“Any problems?”

“No. Everything is under control,” Todd said quickly, tugging at his loosened tie. “We just want to be prepared.”

David suppressed a smile. They were young, only two years out of law school, and eager to make a good impression. As soon as he set foot in his private elevator, they’d head for Houlihan’s bar on the first floor.

Fourteen years had passed since he graduated from law school himself, but he remembered those days when Houlihan’s had just opened. His father had been head of the firm then, and found no amusement in the fact that his only son would rather party than practice law.

David Sr.’s first heart attack had been a sobering wake-up call for David. The second fatal attack changed David’s life forever.

“Why don’t you two go home? I’m headed out myself in a minute.” His gaze drew to his day planner. Appointments filled page after page. He couldn’t remember when he’d been able to eat a quiet lunch at his desk. Even the noon hours were blocked for meetings with the mayor, the chairperson of one charity or another, or perspective clients.

They always ate at Star Bistro or the St. Francis hotel. Damn if he could recall what a Big Mac tasted like.

“Yeah, we’ll be wrapping it up soon.” He glanced at his watch. “Have a good one.”

“See you tomorrow.” David had already transferred his gaze to his day planner. Only five appointments tomorrow. Maybe he’d have time to get on the treadmill for an hour.

He got up and stretched, and then picked his suit jacket up off the valet. Pausing a moment, he stared out at the lights across Fisherman’s Wharf. San Francisco was his favorite city in the world.

Paris was beautiful in the spring and Athens possessed a certain magical quality at night. But there was no place like San Francisco for David. Not just because he’d grown up here. In fact, there were times when the prominent Matthews name made the city a difficult place to live, especially during his rebellious youth.

He shrugged on his jacket and watched the fog roll in. Another ten minutes and the glittering lights and the moon’s reflection on the water would be shrouded with the thick damp haze. He didn’t mind. There was something comforting and peaceful about the fog.

David grabbed his briefcase and a bottle of Evian from the wet bar for the ride home. His private elevator waited, and while he rode to the garage, he mentally ticked off the three briefs he had to review tonight. By tomorrow morning he had to…

The day planner—he’d left it on his desk.

Dammit.

His reserved parking stall was just outside the elevator doors and he pressed the button to unlock his car and then threw his briefcase onto the passenger seat. He hesitated, trying to decide how badly he needed the day planner.

Shaking his head, he locked the car doors again and then took the elevator back up.

He’d left his office door open for the cleaning crew and the light from the corridor was enough for him to get to his desk without breaking his neck. The day planner was still open right where he’d left it. He picked it up and then straightened his desk blotter when he heard a loud angry voice.

He stopped and listened. It wasn’t Todd or Jason…David figured they’d left the moment they heard his elevator earlier. But as far as he knew, no one else was here.

Concerned, he moved closer to the door. He recognized the voice. Tom Snyder was their newest hire, a young lawyer only a year out of law school. Who the hell could he be talking to in that harsh tone? The guy was usually so well mannered.

David angled himself to get a better view. They were standing just outside Tom’s door, Snyder and a young woman. Although David got only a shot of her profile, she looked barely out of her teens, her dark blond hair pulled back into a ponytail, her rumpled coat a size too big. With a trembling hand, she pushed stray tendrils of hair away from her flushed face.

“I don’t want you here, Beth.” Tom glared at the woman, his face darkened with rage. “Go back to Rock Falls.”

“You know I can’t do that,” she said in a small defeated voice.

“I’ll give you bus fare, but nothing more.”

She wrapped her arms around herself. “You act as though I’m asking for a handout. It’s my money, Tommy. You said you needed it for us, that once you had the right clothes and car and your career took off we could get married and I could go back to school.”

“But you ruined it, didn’t you? I told you I didn’t want any kids tying me down. But you got yourself knocked up.”

“You know it was an accident.” She visibly swallowed but lifted her chin. “Besides, I seem to remember your participation.”

Tom cursed viciously. “Go back to Idaho.”

“Believe me, I don’t want to stay here. Not with you.” She shook her head. “You’ve changed, Tommy. I don’t even know you anymore.”

“And you haven’t. You’re still the idealistic little girl who thinks all is right with the world as long as your apple pie wins the blue ribbon.”

She flinched. “Please give me some of the money, Tommy. Just enough to go get set up somewhere. I don’t care about the rest. You don’t have to pay me back. You’ll never have to see the baby or me again.”

David let out a breath, tamping down his growing anger. This was none of his business. He had no right eavesdropping. He never interfered in his employees’ personal lives. He wouldn’t start now, even though he’d like nothing better than to plant his fist in the middle of Snyder’s arrogant face.

He had to leave. The feelings stirred inside him weren’t about the young woman’s plight as much as they were about David’s own tumultuous youth, about the grave mistake he’d made almost twenty years ago.

“Did I say I’d pay you back?” Tom asked, drawing David’s attention back to the drama outside his office. “I thought the money was a gift.”

“Tommy, please, I don’t have anywhere to go tonight. Even if you don’t care about me, you can’t let our baby suffer.”

“Use your credit card.”

“You’ve maxed it out.”

“So this is my fault again.” Tom swore and paced the corridor. “I don’t have any money. I don’t get paid for another week. Can’t you get an advance from your job?”

“You got me fired, remember?”

He stopped and glared, his face distorted with fury. “Dammit, Beth, can’t you accept responsibility for anything?”

Her mouth dropped open. She started to speak but then pressed her lips together and sadly shook her head.

“Go back to Idaho where big brother will make everything all right.” Tom sneered. “Back to the farm where you belong.”

“This isn’t fair,” she said, clutching her fists. “I’m only asking for what’s mine.”

“Life isn’t fair. Haven’t you figured that out yet?” He glanced at his watch. “Now I suggest you get out of here, which is what I’m about to do. I’d hate to have to call security.”

David stepped back. The woman didn’t appear to be in danger, which meant David had no business interfering. Making certain he had his day planner, he got in the elevator and headed for the garage.

He didn’t know Tom Snyder well. Most of their interaction had occurred during the interviewing process, but he knew enough about the young man to be shocked by his behavior. David wasn’t keen on having anyone of that ilk working for his firm. He had every intention of keeping a close eye on the guy. If he stepped out of line once, he was gone. Legally that was about the best he could do for now.

But that wasn’t what weighed on David’s mind. He couldn’t erase the image of the young woman, her shoulders slumped in defeat, her trembling hands unconsciously rubbing her belly, which still appeared rather flat. Or maybe it was a trick of the oversized coat.

He wondered if she truly had no money. If not, where would she go tonight? Would she get anything to eat?

Not his concern, he reminded himself. The city had plenty of shelters and social services to assist her. Maybe Tom had even relented and put her up for the night.

Yeah, right.

The elevator reached the garage and the doors opened. David cursed to himself. He hesitated a second, staring at the Jaguar, longing for the relaxing ride home, and then pressed the button to return to the top floor.

No doubt he’d regret what he was about to do. But if he didn’t assure himself the woman was all right, he’d regret that, too. Hopefully, they’d both be gone and he wouldn’t have to get involved.

Not a sound came from the corridor as he left the elevator. He paused at his office door and listened. Only silence. He stepped out into the hall and immediately saw her. No sign of Tom—just the young woman sitting in a crumpled heap near the public elevator, her head bowed, her long blond hair falling forward and hiding her face.

“Excuse me?” David said, and her head shot up, her big blue eyes startled and wary. “Can I help you?”

“No.” She pushed out of the chair. “Thank you. I was just waiting for the elevator.”

She was young, really young, just as he’d thought. He gave her a reassuring smile. “Are you here to see someone?”

She bit her lower lip, probably to keep it from quivering, and then pressed the elevator button. “I know it’s late. I promise I’ll leave the building as soon as the elevator gets here.”

A swift and fierce hatred for Tom Snyder gripped David. How could the guy have treated this young woman so callously? She was obviously a wreck, and still she tried to protect him. She could have announced why she was here, embarrass Tom. But she hadn’t.

“I’m not concerned about you leaving the building but I’d like to know where you’re going.”

She stared in surprise. “Why?”

He nodded at the small bag on the floor beside her. “Is that yours?”

“Yes,” she mumbled and bent to pick it up. She looked unsteady as she straightened and he reached for her arm. She jerked away, fear darkening her blue eyes.

“I’m sorry.” He withdrew his hand. What the hell was he doing getting involved? Put him in a courtroom and he could make judges weep. Here, he was no better than a bull in a china shop. “I didn’t mean to frighten you.”

She shrunk against the wall, her gaze darting down the corridor. Looking as though she wanted to make a run for it.

“I better introduce myself,” he said quickly. “I’m David Matthews.” Recognition registered in her face, but he added, “I own this firm.”

She blinked and then her eyes narrowed as she drew back.

He reached into his pocket and withdrew his wallet. “See?” He showed her his driver’s license, and impulsively placed his thumb over his birth date.

She wrinkled her nose. “I believed you. It’s just that you’re not that old.”

“Pardon me?”

She quickly averted her eyes, her cheeks flushing a deep pink, and she jabbed at the elevator button again.

“At this time of night security shuts down all but one elevator. It’s going to be a while.”

She said nothing, only stared down at her battered pink tennis shoes.

“Beth?”

Her gaze flew back to him. “How do you know my name?”

“I heard you and Tom arguing.” He hated that he made her uncomfortable, had put humiliation in her face, but there was no getting around it. “Where are you staying tonight?”

She briefly closed her eyes and swayed slightly. He squashed the urge to steady her. “Please, I didn’t mean to cause any trouble.”

“You haven’t. From what I heard, Tom was being…” A total ass. “…less than honorable. Is he still here?”

Beth shook her head, wishing the darn elevator doors would open and swallow her up. She should never have come here. What had she hoped to accomplish? Tommy wasn’t going to budge. All she’d done was totally humiliate herself in front of a stranger.

“I’ll be fine, really. Thank you for asking.” She turned her back on his dark penetrating eyes, and faced the elevator.

“Beth? May I call you that?” he asked, and she jumped when he touched her arm.

“Sure.” She shrugged, and shifted away. His voice was gentle, concerned, and she struggled to hold herself together.

“I know you must be embarrassed and a little frightened.” He paused when she refused to acknowledge him. “I know I would be in your shoes. But you do have to think about the baby.”

A sob caught in her throat. She couldn’t speak even if she wanted to. Not that she had anything to say. He was right, but she felt so darn helpless.

“I have a large house with three guest rooms. You’re welcome to stay the night.”

Of course she couldn’t accept his offer but she still couldn’t speak either. If she did, she feared the floodgates would open.

He pushed a rough hand through his short dark hair, and she realized he wasn’t as calm as he seemed. “I assure you this offer is on the up-and-up. My mother has a suite of rooms on the third floor. Our housekeeper has an apartment over the garage.”

Beth relaxed a little. He was being awfully kind. But surely she’d find a shelter that could take her in for the night. She opened her mouth to refuse, but before she could say a word, her stomach rumbled. She groaned at the loud, obnoxious sound, and muttered, “Must be the baby.”

He smiled. “Let the little guy know I have a fully stocked kitchen.”

“It might be a girl.”

“Of course.”

“It’s too early. I haven’t found out yet.” Oh, God, she was babbling.

He didn’t seem put off, but smiled again. “Just for tonight. Tomorrow you’ll be better rested, the baby’s belly will be full and you can decide what you want to do.”

She shook her head. “Thank you, but—”

“Beth, you have your baby to think about.” His words were quiet, gentle but they cut through her like a butcher’s knife.

She wrapped her arms around herself, recalling the cold damp fog that had started to roll in an hour ago. Foolishly she’d hoped she’d have a nice warm room by now. She sighed and rubbed the slight swell of her tummy. Mr. Matthews was right. This wasn’t only about her anymore. She had the baby to worry about.

Still, it was difficult to bring herself to accept charity. It was a new experience. Even after her parents had died ten years ago, and her brother took charge of both her and the farm, she’d always been self-sufficient.

But she hadn’t had a baby to worry about, she reminded herself. She took a deep breath. “Thank you, Mr. Matthews. We—I’ll accept your kind offer. On one condition.”

His left brow went up.

“I pay you back when I’m able.” She knew he meant nothing by it, but his patronizing expression annoyed her. “That’s how it has to be.”

His forehead creased in thought and he pursed his lips. They were nice lips, not too thin, not too full. Perfect, really. “The thing is, I’ve got to pay my mortgage whether you stay tonight or not.”

She saw the amused glint in his eyes, and folded her arms across her chest and sat down on the upholstered bench between the elevator doors. Fine. If she had to wait all night for the darn elevator at least she’d be warm and dry.

A short startled laugh made her look up. He put on a straight face, but a smile lurked at the corners of his mouth. “Come on, Beth.” He offered her a hand. “Let’s discuss it in the car.”

Her stomach growled again. She tried sucking it in to stop the noise. No luck. “All right, Mr. Matthews, but you know my terms.”

He took the bag from her hand. “I have a condition, as well. Call me David. I may be old enough to be your father but—”

“You are not. I’m twenty-five.” She’d fudged only a little. Her birthday was in a month.

He looked surprised.

She studied the faint smile lines at the corners of his eyes. “How old are you?”

He frowned and cleared his throat. “Let’s get on the road. I’ll call Ida to keep dinner warm.”

“Don’t let her go to any trouble.” She didn’t understand why he left the elevator and headed in the opposite direction, but she followed him through double mahogany doors.

“Don’t worry. She’s going to love fussing over you,” he said over his shoulder. “So will my mother.”

Beth slowed down as soon as she realized she was in his office. Although it didn’t look like any office she’d ever seen. The room was massive, two sides of it was all windows overlooking the city lights. A wet bar with gold-framed mirrors occupied one corner, an elaborate stereo system the other.

One entire wall was a floor-to-ceiling bookshelf filled with texts. They weren’t all law books either. She spotted a couple of current works of fiction she’d just read herself.

A treadmill was off to the side, hidden behind an Oriental screen. A television and two plump sofas and a pair of leather armchairs were arranged in a surprisingly cozy setting. Her gaze drew to his large desk, but settled on him when she realized he was staring at her.

She gave him a small smile. “Wow! This is some office.”

His gaze flickered across the room and he frowned slightly. “Yes, I suppose it is.”

Behind him came a low beep. She gaped at the polished brown oak door sliding open. “You have your own private elevator?”

One side of his mouth lifted. “So it seems. Are you coming?”

He motioned her past him and she scurried inside, and then waited for him to join her. He pressed the garage button and then silently faced the door for their ride down.

Beth tried not to be obvious as she eyed his clean-shaven jaw. At this late hour, she didn’t know how he could have no stubble…unless he’d shaved in the afternoon again. His hair was perfectly cut, a dark rich brown with no sign of gray. He wasn’t nearly as old or stern as Tommy had said.

He was obviously a very nice man to take in a total stranger like this. Back in Rock Falls, that sort of kindness was taken for granted, but she hadn’t encountered anything like it in the city yet. That it was Tommy’s boss who’d come to her rescue filled her with a perverse pleasure that Grandma Anderson would have threatened to take a switch to her for.

Beth smiled. Not that Grand had ever laid a hand, or switch, on her. But Grand was such a tiny and good-hearted woman, Beth figured she needed the bluff to keep her grandkids in line. Especially Junior and his horrendous temper.

The sudden thought of her brother made her feel a little queasy and she pressed a hand to her stomach. Junior was the best brother a girl could ever have. He was supportive, caring and protective. Too protective. He never had liked Tommy to begin with…if Junior ever found out what he’d done…

“Are you all right?”

Beth looked up. David’s concerned gaze lifted from the hand at her tummy to meet her eyes. They were nice eyes, dark but with interesting flecks of gold. “Fine. Really. I was just thinking about…stuff.”

“Ah.” He gave an understanding nod. “Maybe you should wait until you’ve had something to eat and had a good night’s rest before you think about any more…stuff.”

She started to respond but the elevator door opened, and he held it back for her. She hesitated, but couldn’t form the right words quickly enough and stepped out instead. He indicated a dark green Jaguar several feet away, and then pressed something in his hand that produced a clicking noise. The door locks, she realized, when he overtook her and opened the passenger door.

A black leather briefcase sat on the seat, but he carefully placed it in the back, along with her bag, and then continued to hold the door for her while she slid inside. He ducked and she jumped, feeling foolish when she realized he only wanted to make sure her coat didn’t get caught in the door.

She was fairly sure he noticed her edginess but he didn’t say anything. He went around the hood of the car and climbed in behind the wheel and reversed out of the stall without a word. After he made a call on his cell phone, he pressed a button and soft classical music filled the car.

They didn’t say anything for the next fifteen minutes. He drove and she stared out the window at the thickening fog, grateful that she and the baby had a warm dry place to stay for the night. But what would she do tomorrow night? And the night after that? It wasn’t easy looking for a job while pregnant. She didn’t show much yet but that would probably change in a month. Of course she could keep doing temp work but the pay was low and barely covered a place to live.

“Hey, you aren’t thinking about stuff again, are you?”

She turned away from the window and looked at him. He took his eyes away from the road long enough to give her a smile. It was kind and reassuring, but a little patronizing, too, and she couldn’t hold back any longer.

“Mr., uh, David, I really appreciate what you’re doing for me. But I’m not a child. Don’t treat me like one.”

David couldn’t wait to unload her on his mother. Had he really been treating Beth like a child? What had he said? He’d only advised her not to worry, not when she was tired and hungry. Anyway, she was young. Twenty-five was still…

Hell, he’d graduated from law school at twenty-five and if anyone had so much as implied that he wasn’t a fully capable adult he would’ve had a few choice words for them. It didn’t matter that he’d still been riding his motorcycle without a helmet or that he always forgot to balance his checkbook, or that he’d let his bills stack up for two months at a time even though he’d had plenty of money in his account.

Part of it was that Beth looked so young with her big blue eyes and scattering of freckles across her nose. She was short, probably not even five-two and her long hair hung past her shoulders in no particular style, the way girls used to wear it back in high school.

He cursed to himself. High school. Amazing he could remember that far back. It seemed like a century ago.

“You don’t live in the city?” Beth asked as they turned onto the bridge, her eyes widening on the arched lights of the Golden Gate.

“No, Sausalito.”

“I’ve never been there.”

He glanced at her in surprise. “How long have you been living in San Francisco?”

“Almost a year. But Tommy and I always seemed to be working so we didn’t go out much.”

Amazing how calmly she could speak of the jerk, when he himself wanted to punch the guy’s lights out. “What do you do?”

“I was a secretary.” She sighed. “But I got fired. I also worked as a waitress three evenings a week, but…” She turned to the window again, her shoulders sagging. “It didn’t work out.”

No doubt Tom had a hand in getting her fired at that, as well. But she still said nothing negative about him, for which David didn’t know if he should admire her or shake her. Of course, he reminded himself, it was none of his business.

She was none of his business. Only one night’s lodging. That’s all he’d offered her. As she’d pointedly informed him, she was not a child. She could take care of herself, even though she looked as if she were fifteen.

He knew what was really bothering him. His birthday was coming up next month. The big one. And his mother had some awful notion that she should have a huge party for him. As if turning forty was something to celebrate.

Well, there wouldn’t be any damn party, even if he had to take off to Hawaii for the weekend. He glanced over at Beth, who’d turned back to staring out the window. Maybe she was just the distraction his mother needed.

He slowed as they approached the security gate at the bottom of his driveway. Beth gasped when he started to punch in the code to let them in, and he darted her a look.

“You live here?” Her eyes were wide with surprise, her lips curved.

He followed her gaze toward the house, or at least what could be seen of it through the trees and darkness. There were a lot of lights on but he wasn’t sure what had interested her. “This is home, all right.”

“It’s huge, and there are so many lights and windows. Can you see the ocean from there?”

“It’s built into the hill but we have a pretty good view of the bay from most rooms.” He finished putting in the code and watched the gate slowly swing open.

As he drove up the winding driveway his gaze drew to the house. He’d had it built as high on the hill as possible for maximum view and privacy with more windows than was probably prudent. He had to admit, the place did look quite impressive with all the lights blazing through the trees. It had been a long time since he’d noticed or appreciated its simple beauty.

“Gosh, this is incredible.” Beth continued to stare, wide-eyed as they rounded a curve into a clearing before the garden crawled up the slope to the house. “Keeping this place in shape must take all your weekends.”

David laughed, but then realized she was serious when she darted him an odd look.

She made a face. “That was silly of me. Of course you have someone to help you with all this.”

Help? He cleared his throat. Not only had he never set foot in the garden, he couldn’t tell one flower from another. He hit the garage-door opener and impatiently edged the car in while the door lifted.

As soon as they got inside, Beth would be his mother’s problem. She’d love every second of the fussing, and he could get to work. In his den. Alone. The thought held enormous appeal. Not that Beth was a bother but he liked routine, and having her beside him for the past half hour was anything but normal.

He parked, turned off the engine and unfastened his seat belt. Beth sat motionless. He glanced over. She was pale.

“What’s wrong?”

She winced. “Nothing, really.”

“Why are you holding your stomach?”

“It’s nothing.”

David hesitated, unsure what to do. Should he press her? Assume it really was nothing? Where the hell was his mother?

Beth laid a hand on his arm. “Don’t worry. It’s not the baby or anything. I’m just a little carsick.”

Her touch was gentle, featherlight, yet it sparked an odd sensation in him. Quickly he shifted away and got out of the car. “I may have taken the curves too fast. I wish you’d said something.”

“I’m sorry.”

“No need to apologize. I didn’t mean to—” He shook his head and went around the car to open her door. First opportunity he got, he was going to fire Tom Snyder’s ass. The guy had been such a jerk to the poor girl; she thought she had to apologize for getting sick.

She’d already opened her door and swung her legs out of the car by the time he got there. He stopped and stared at her shapely calves and slim ankles. She was short but all legs. Great legs.

Fortunately she was too busy trying to hold her stomach and lift herself out of the car to notice him staring. His reaction disgusted him. He had no business wondering what the rest of her looked like under that big coat. None whatsoever.

“Here.” He offered her a hand.

“I’m okay, but if you’d get my bag I’d appreciate it.” Her gaze warily slid up the stairs going to the kitchen door.

Hell, he’d forgotten about that. The garage had been built under the house and his mother sometimes complained the stairs were too steep.

He stood aside while she got out by herself but as they approached the stairs he took her elbow.

She didn’t protest, but simply held the railing with one hand and her tummy with the other. He hoped she was right, and that her queasiness was a result of carsickness. That would pass within an hour.

“I’m really not such a wimp, you know,” she said, a little breathless, as she looked over at him.

Her eyes were the clearest blue he’d ever seen and her skin was nearly flawless. Her face was still pale but some rest and a good meal would probably take care of that.

“Not for a moment have I thought of you as a wimp. Watch your step.”

“Oops.” She faltered, but he tightened his hold on her elbow and she leaned into him.

A subtle fragrance drifted up from her hair. Jasmine. Or maybe gardenia. He inhaled deeply. Definitely jasmine. “Okay?”

She nodded and straightened. “My coat’s too big. I almost tripped on the hem.” She looked up at him, her eyes so innocent and blue and something stirred inside him.

“We’ll have to do something about that,” he murmured, thrown off balance by the sudden urge he had to pick her up and carry her the rest of the way up the stairs.

“David?”

At his mother’s voice, he looked up at the top of the stairs. She stood at the open door, a perplexed look on her face as her gaze slid between him and Beth.

He quelled the asinine impulse to release Beth. But they’d done nothing wrong. “Hi, Mother, I hope I’m not keeping you awake.”

“Nonsense.” She smiled at Beth, and then stepped back to hold the door open for them. “He didn’t worry about keeping me awake forty years ago,” she said, winking at Beth. “The little monster kept me in labor for thirty-two hours.”

Beth darted a surprised look at him.

He glared at his mother. He wasn’t forty yet.

“Mother, this is Beth—” He stopped when he realized he had no idea what Beth’s last name was.

“Anderson.”

“I’m Maude.”

He breathed a sigh of relief as the women took over. Or more accurately, his mother had taken charge. She ushered Beth through the laundry room to the kitchen, sat her down and got her a glass of water. Ida was already in the kitchen, stirring something in a pot. It smelled like her homemade chicken soup. David hadn’t had any in ages.

“Be a love and put Beth’s bag in the blue guest room,” his mother said, “and then come back down and have something to eat.”

She gave him only a brief glance and then all her attention went back to Beth who looked a bit overwhelmed. David didn’t bother telling her he’d had a late lunch and would have a snack later while he worked in his den. He seldom got home early enough to eat dinner at home. Anyway, she was already busy tending to Beth, looking more animated than he’d seen her in a long time.

He carried the bag to the first floor guest room, and then went to his own room upstairs to get out of his suit. At least two hours of work waited for him in his briefcase and…

His briefcase—he’d left it in the car.

Dammit.

He shrugged out of his coat, loosened and pulled off his tie, got rid of the gold cuff links. He hated the possibility of going through the kitchen and getting waylaid. Bad enough he’d lost an hour already, but he had no choice. He needed the briefs and his day planner.

David swore. He’d left his day planner on his desk again. He sat on the edge of his bed and pulled off his socks. God, he hated being thrown off his routine.

“NOW, BETH, anything you need, you feel free to ask.” Mrs. Matthews set the cup of tea beside the glass of water she’d already filled twice, and Beth wanted to cry. “In fact, if you see it, don’t ask, help yourself.”

“You’re being so kind,” Beth murmured, overwhelmed with gratitude for the unexpected thoughtfulness these strangers showed her. “Please don’t make a big fuss. I’m fine.”

“Nonsense. We’re not fussing. Are we, Ida?”

The housekeeper gave a dismissive snort as she ladled rich yellow broth into a bowl. Her round face had been wreathed in a welcoming smile from the minute Beth laid eyes on her. She was probably the same age as Mrs. Matthews, early sixties, Beth guessed. But as slim and tall as Mrs. Matthews was, Ida was short and plump. They made quite a pair in their contrasting red silk and gray chenille robes.

“It’s been too long since David has brought a friend home,” Mrs. Matthews put a carafe of coffee on the table, and then brought out cups. Not mugs, but real china cups and saucers.

“I’m not exactly a friend,” Beth muttered, not sure what David had told them.

“Well, we’re delighted to have you. Would you rather eat in the dining room?”

“This is fine.” Beth watched Ida root through the refrigerator. “Please don’t go to any more trouble.”

She brought out what looked like a lemon meringue pie. Only one small piece was missing. “Trouble?” Ida grunted. “About time there’s someone around here to eat my pastries. Those two take one little nibble and start worrying about their arteries.”

Mrs. Matthews sighed and threw Ida a long-suffering look. “You put a pound of butter in everything you bake.”

“Neither of my parents knew what an artery was and they both lived until ninety-six.” Ida sniffed. “Mind you, they ate plenty of butter and cheese, too.”

Beth laughed. The two women obviously shared a friendship beyond the employer-employee relationship.

Mrs. Matthews laughed, too. “Don’t mind us. Ida and I go back more years than we care to admit.”

“Quit talking and let the poor girl eat.” Ida put two dessert plates on the table and then took a seat and picked up a knife.

“You’re having another piece of pie?” Mrs. Matthews asked, as she sat across from Beth with a cup of black coffee.

“You mind your business, Maude.” Ida smiled at Beth. “So, how do you know our David?”

Beth had just swallowed a mouthful of the chicken soup but she pretended to chew. The truth was pretty embarrassing, yet she didn’t want to lie, either.

“And you tell me to mind my business?” Mrs. Matthews’s perfectly arched brows went up. “Really, Ida, can’t you let the young lady eat in peace?”

Color climbed all the way to Ida’s salt-and-pepper hairline. “Of course. Eat.” She motioned with her chin to Beth before digging into the large wedge of lemon meringue in front of her.

Beth quickly spooned up another portion of the delicious soup. She was hungry but also grateful there’d be no more questions. At least for now.

Mrs. Matthews looked exactly like Beth would have pictured her had she thought about it. Perfectly styled chestnut-colored hair, even at bedtime, perfect teeth, a perfect figure. Her nails were manicured and polished a subtle pink. She looked and smelled rich. Old money rich. Just like David.

Of course they were from old money, according to Tommy. Their family went back to the gold rush days when the Matthews name became a prominent San Francisco fixture. In the legal arena, their firm was number one, if she could believe Tommy. He seemed awfully impressed with that kind of social stuff these days, so she figured he ought to know.

What impressed Beth was the way Mrs. Matthews treated Ida. The woman was a polar opposite—on the frumpy side, her curly graying hair in need of a trim, her roughened hands looked like those of a farmer’s wife.

“Are you ready for another bowl?” Ida asked, and to Beth’s humiliation, she realized she’d practically inhaled her food.

“No, thank you. This was plenty.”

Ida grunted as she got up and took Beth’s empty bowl. “That was hardly enough to keep a bird alive.”

“But I had two pieces of that great bread. Did you make it?”

Ida nodded, her face one big smile. “No store-bought baked goods in this house.”

“She’s determined to make me fat.” Mrs. Matthews sipped her black coffee with a look of phony disdain.

“Don’t mind her. She thinks three strawberries with a teaspoon of fat-free whipped cream is dessert.”

Beth smiled. “Sorry, but nothing beats real whipped cream, or freshly churned butter. I haven’t had either since I left the farm.”

Both women stared at her. Ida spoke first as she set another bowl of soup in front of Beth. “You actually lived on a farm?”

Beth nodded, and silently cursed her big mouth. These people would think she was some kind of hick. She brought her napkin to her lips—a linen napkin, no common paper stuff here. That she’d momentarily been ashamed of her roots shamed her even more. First her parents, and then her brother provided her with a good home in Rock Falls. Better than good, it had been idyllic.

She lifted her chin. “Back in Rock Falls, Idaho. My family has owned it for five generations. We were all born right there in the master bedroom.”

“My heavens.” Mrs. Matthews set down her coffee cup, the china making a pleasant tinkling sound. “How long have you been here in the city?”

“A little over a year.”

Mrs. Matthews’s brows drew together in a sympathetic frown, and Beth’s defenses soared. “How you must have hated to leave.”

“I’ll say.” Ida placed another bowl of the steaming soup in front of Beth. “Why did you?”

She didn’t know what to say. Not because of Tommy, but because she’d expected disdain, because she’d been prepared to defend her rural childhood.

She shrugged. “My brother works the farm now. He lives there with his wife and three kids.”

“You two aren’t grilling our guest, I hope.”

David’s voice had all three of them turning toward him.

He stood at the door, rolling back the sleeves of his blue oxford shirt, which he’d left unbuttoned at the top. He’d traded his suit pants for jeans and his black dress shoes for battered brown loafers, no socks. The casual look shaved ten years off him, and a totally inappropriate flutter in Beth’s chest startled her.

She hiccupped.

Oh, God. Not now.

Mrs. Matthews turned to her. “Are you okay?”

Beth nodded, and hiccupped again.

Ida jumped up and went to the sink. “Hold your breath for ten seconds while you drink down this water,” she said while she filled a glass. “It works every time.”

“Nonsense. That’s an old wives’ tale.” Mrs. Matthews waved a dismissive hand, but she said nothing more as Ida handed Beth the glass.

She hiccupped again, and then carefully avoided looking at David while she started to down the water. Slowly she counted to ten, and wondered if this evening could possibly get any more humiliating. Nerves hadn’t caused a hiccupping fit for almost five years. Why now?

She set down the glass and everyone waited in mortifying silence to see if Ida’s cure worked.

No more hiccups. She was afraid to so much as smile.

Ida planted her hands on her hips with a triumphant grin. “What did I tell you?”

Mrs. Matthews sighed. “I suppose we’ll hear about this for the next two weeks.”

“Indeed you would if I were going to be here.”

David went to the refrigerator and opened it. “Where are you going to be?”

“On vacation. I’m going to Denver to see my grandbabies,” Ida said, eyeing Mrs. Matthews who remained silent and apparently displeased, judging from her pinched expression.

“Good for you.” David took out an apple. “I’m glad to see you take some time off.”

“Nice someone’s happy for me,” Ida mumbled and got up and cleared the pie off the table. “Beth, can I get you anything else?”

Beth cleared her throat and prayed the hiccups were truly over. “No, thank you.” She briefly glanced at David who was giving his mother some kind of silent warning. “You’ve both been very kind, but please don’t let me keep you up.”

David pulled a chair out and sat down. The two women looked at him in clear astonishment. “Mother, you and Ida go on to bed. I’ll take care of Beth.”

The women exchanged startled glances, their differences temporarily forgotten.

Beth experienced a jolt of surprise herself. She hadn’t expected him to have anything else to do with her. He seemed more than happy to leave her to his mother’s care earlier. Not that she blamed him. She was a stranger, an intruder into his private life.

“Thank you for helping out,” he said. “Now, I’m sure there’s something on television you’re missing.”

Ida tightened the belt of her robe. “I would like to put my feet up. Anything special you’d like for breakfast?”

Busy staring at David, Beth belatedly realized Ida was talking to her. “Uh, no, thanks. I’ll be leaving early tomorrow morning.”

Mrs. Matthews had stood and picked up her cup and saucer. But she stopped and frowned at Beth. “But I—”

“Good night, Mother.”

She sighed and gave her son the eye. “I’d like to speak with you before you go to bed.”

“I’ll be in after I get Beth settled in her room.”

The simple statement sounded so intimate goose bumps surfaced on Beth’s arms. What the heck was wrong with her? Haywire hormones? Did that happen so soon into the pregnancy? She was woefully ignorant about such matters. At least if she were back in Rock Falls…

She put the brakes on. Going home was not an option. No sense in getting melancholy about it. She had to move forward, think about where she would stay, how she would support herself, get medical insurance…

The two older women had said good-night and were leaving the kitchen before Beth realized how lost in thought she’d been. Quickly she called out a good-night, and then silence descended. She’d already finished her soup and a third slice of bread. If she didn’t think she’d burst at the seams, she would’ve had another just for an excuse not to talk.

But there was a downside to the silence. More worries germinated and grew inside her exhausted brain. The small amount of money she had left in the bank would take her through one day. Hopefully she’d get a temp job tomorrow, but what if she couldn’t?

“I should have warned you about those two,” David finally said, his voice serious, but when she looked at him one side of his mouth was lifted. “I hope they weren’t too nosy.”

“Oh, no, they were incredibly kind.” She swallowed around the sudden lump in her throat. “They made me feel so welcome. I—I—”

Oh, God, not now.

The tears came in buckets.

Great. This was terrific. David set aside the apple and then wiped his hands on a napkin, trying not to notice how fragile she looked in that oversized coat she’d oddly refused to take off. Had he said something inflammatory? What was he supposed to do now? He could call his mother…

Nah, he wasn’t that big a coward. Hell, he headed a multimillion-dollar law firm. He could handle this small problem. He cleared his throat, got her a box of tissues and then gave her several awkward pats on her back while he searched his helpless brain for something to say.

She dabbed at her eyes, blew her reddened nose. “I’m sorry,” she said, reluctantly raising her watery blue eyes to him. “I have no idea where that came from.”

He withdrew his hand. “You’re probably just tired.”

She sniffed and snuggled deeper into her coat as if for protection. “That’s no excuse.”

“Don’t be so hard on yourself.”

Her gaze came up, her eyes bright, and he thought she might start crying again.

“This is a tough time for you,” he added quickly. “Uncertainty is difficult to face under the best circumstances and now you have a baby to consider.”

“Thank you,” she whispered, “for being so understanding. I’m really not such a wimp.”

The sincere gratitude in her eyes got to him and he touched the tip of her nose. “I don’t doubt that for a moment.”

The rest of her face got as red as her nose. “You’re treating me like a child again.”

“What?”

“Don’t deny it.” A teasing smile started at the corners of her mouth. “But that’s okay. I’m used to it. I look young for my age, plus my brother and his friends were so much older that they’ve always treated me like a kid.”

“Is that why you won’t go back to Idaho?”

Any trace of a smile vanished and she hunched her shoulders. “Not exactly.”

“I’m prying. I apologize.” He knew little about pregnancy but enough to understand that a woman’s body and mood changed. And boy, did he just get a sample of it. If she started crying again it would be his fault.

“You have a right to know. After all, you’ve taken me in.”

“Just for the night.”

Embarrassment rose in her cheeks. “I understand. I’ll be leaving first thing tomorrow morning.”

“I didn’t mean that. What I was trying to say in a very bad way was that you don’t owe me any explanations. My offer wasn’t conditional.”

“I know.” She sighed. “My brother has a notoriously bad temper. If he finds out about Tommy taking my college money—” She pressed her lips together, panic flickering in her eyes, as if she’d said too much. “Anyway, Junior and his wife work the farm now. They have three children. There’s really no room for me there.”

“And your parents?”

“They died when I was fifteen. Junior took over my guardianship.”

“He’s your only sibling, I take it.”

She nodded. “Even though he’s twelve years older than me we’re very close, but he wouldn’t understand me getting pregnant. He never liked Tommy.” She stared down at her hands. “I guess Junior was right about him.”

“Nevertheless, surely your brother wouldn’t turn you away.”

She looked up, her eyes troubled. “Oh, no, of course not.” She blinked, looked away. “It’s complicated.”

“And none of my business.”

She gave him a tiny apologetic smile. The discussion was closed. He respected that, and to reassure her, he laid a hand on her clasped ones. They were cold and fidgety, and she was so small his one hand covered them both.

Her eyes widened, slightly, just enough to spark an awareness in him that made his mouth go dry, his chest tighten. Trust…gratitude…were both there in her unguarded expression. He pulled away and raked a hand through his hair.

“I’m sure you’re tired.” He stood and disposed of his half-eaten apple. “Let me show you to your room.”

She got to her feet, her gaze following him with a wariness that unsettled him. “Did I do something wrong?”

“Of course not. I just figured you wanted to rest.”

She pushed back the sleeves of her coat. “I’m going to do the dishes first. Is the soap under the sink?”

David grunted. “You are not going to wash the dishes.”

“I’m certainly not going to leave them.” She brushed past him with her bread plate and bowl.

“We have a dishwasher.” His gaze scanned the room. He knew they had one somewhere…. Ah, he spotted it to the right of the sink.

“I’m sure Ida has already run it for the night. It won’t take me long to wash these up.” She placed the dishes in the sink and turned on the water. Her coat sleeves slid back down and she pushed them up again.

David shut the water off, and when she turned to him he placed his hands on her shoulders. “You are not going to wash dishes. You are going to bed.”

He’d expected her to comply but she surprised him by tilting her head back and narrowing her gaze. “Says who?”

The forgotten childhood taunt startled a laugh out of him. “Says me.”

They stood staring at each other a moment, and then a shy smile tugged at her lips and she moved back. “Really, I can wash up everything in no time.”

He lowered his hands. She had such slim shoulders a peculiar protectiveness stirred inside him. “You’re a guest in this house. If I let you so much as lift a finger, my mother and Ida will run me up a flagpole.”

She made a face. “I’m not exactly a guest.”

“I suggest you follow me, or you’re on your own to find the guest room.”

He headed out of the kitchen, hiding a smile when she scurried after him. Halfway across the dining room he heard her gasp and he made an abrupt about-face.

“Wow, this house is really something.”

Her gaze swept the two-story white marble foyer with the crystal chandelier his mother had found in Rome. The living room was decorated in a simple but elegant contemporary style, the real focal point the city beyond the wide expanse of glass. San Francisco twinkled like a hundred-carat diamond.

David watched the wonder light her eyes and suffered a surprising pang of envy. He remembered how excited he’d been over the architectural plans, and how he used to stand on the hill before the house was built and just stare at the city below, waiting, anticipating.

Now it seemed all he did was work. Which reminded him…he still had to get his briefcase out of the car and start in on that brief….

“Your room is right down this hall,” he said with more impatience than he’d intended.

“Sorry.” She threw one final admiring look around and then hurried after him.

The bedroom was already made up. Ida kept it in top shape for unexpected guests. He’d already put Beth’s bag on the luggage rack near the closet. The tote was so light he wondered what she had in there. Clearly she had to have more clothes stashed somewhere.

“There’s a bathroom behind the door to the left, the one on the right goes out onto a balcony. Let’s see, there are hangers and an extra blanket in the closet, bottled water over in that small fridge in the corner.”

She stood in the doorway, as if afraid to come all the way into the room.

He casually stepped back to give her space. “Can you think of anything else you might need?”

She shook her head, her eyes looking suspiciously bright again. Definitely his cue to leave.

“Okay, then, good night.” He eased between her and the door.

“David?” She touched his arm, and when he stopped, she rose on tiptoes and kissed his cheek. “Thank you.”

Her warm breath and subtle jasmine scent stirred more than friendly concern and panic surged in his chest. “No problem,” he said with unintended gruffness, and then got the hell out of her room.

“GOOD MORNING.” Ida was all smiles in a shocking pink dress and yellow apron, her curly graying hair less wild this morning. “You’re just in time. I made another fresh pot of coffee.”

Beth yawned, and covered her mouth in embarrassment. Bad enough she’d slept so late. Back on the farm she would have been up for over two hours already. “Good morning. Or should I say good afternoon?”

Ida handed her a cup. “Phooey. It’s only nine.”

Beth gave the carafe of rich brown brew a longing look. Caffeine wasn’t good for the baby. But maybe there was a period early in the pregnancy that allowed one cup. She had no idea. There was so much to learn…

“Are you gonna stare it to death or drink it?” Ida picked up the carafe and held it above Beth’s cup.

“Just half, please.”

“There’s only a measly fifty percent caffeine in this blend,” Ida said, and filled Beth’s cup to the brim. “Her Highness worries about too much of that, too.”

“Mrs. Matthews?”

Ida chuckled. “Don’t look so scandalized. I always call her that, and to her face, mind you. Have a seat.”

Beth took the same chair she’d used last night and sipped the much-appreciated coffee. She would drink only half a cup and she intended to make it last as long as possible. “How long have you known Mrs. Matthews?”

Ida sat across from her with a cup of coffee filled with cream and sugar. “Maude and I grew up together. And I suggest you call her that instead of Mrs. Matthews.” She paused and grinned at Beth’s expression. “Now, you wouldn’t be wondering how we grew up together, obviously being from different social circles, would you?”

Heat filled Beth’s cheeks. “Um, well…”

Ida laughed and waved a hand. “Don’t mind me. I never can resist that one. My mother was Maude’s parents’ housekeeper. Mom and I lived in the servants’ quarters on their estate not far from here, and since Maude and I are a year apart in age, we played together.

“Of course we went to different schools, her being a Wellington and all, but once we both got home each day, it didn’t matter a whit. When it was time for her to go away to finishing school, we both pitched fits.” Ida sighed. “It didn’t do any good. She left, and I went and got myself pregnant. Sorry mess that was, but you don’t want to hear about it, and besides, I got myself a fine son out of the bargain.”

She was wrong. Beth wanted very much to hear about Ida and how she had handled being a single woman, pregnant and then raising a child. But how did she urge her to continue without sounding nosy?

“Do you have other children?” Beth asked conversationally.

“A daughter. Later I married Ed Barnes, a sergeant in the Marines. He adopted my boy and then we had Amelia. We ended up traveling around a lot, transferring from one military base to the other. But Maude and I always kept in touch and when my Ed died five years ago, I came here to work for her and David. David Sr. had died soon after young David got out of law school. A second heart attack did him in, God rest his soul.”

Beth had wondered about David’s father, but of course would never have asked. David seemed awfully young to head such a large and prominent firm.

“How long were you a single parent?” She hoped that didn’t sound too nosy.

“About five years. I’d met Ed right away but there was no way I wanted anything to do with a man.” Ida chuckled. “I gave him a run for his money, I did.”

Beth understood completely. If she never trusted a man, or even never dated again it would be too soon. She realized she was unconsciously rubbing her tummy and immediately stilled her hand. But what did it matter if they knew about the baby? David had probably explained to his mother by now, and if Maude knew, Beth bet Ida did, too.

And if not, what did Beth have to lose? After this morning, she’d never see these women again. Or David. The thought was oddly unsettling.

She recalled his reaction to her chaste kiss last night and how surprised she’d been at his obvious discomfort. It was both funny and sweet, and she’d fallen asleep with the warm fuzzy feeling that he’d actually been touched in some way.

But today was a new day, one of making hard decisions and moving forward. The thought scared her to death.

“Now I have a question for you.” Ida stared at her over the rim of her cup. “Do you ever take that coat off?”

“Only if I have to.” Beth sighed. “I’m traveling rather light these days.”

Ida frowned in thoughtful silence for a moment, and then asked, “How long will you be staying?”

She glanced at her watch. “For about another hour.”

“Nonsense.” Maude swept into the kitchen, looking trim and vibrant in a red silk pantsuit, her hair upswept into a chic French twist. “Good morning, ladies.”

“Well, it’s about time Her Highness woke up.” Ida winked at Beth. “I’ve made fresh coffee twice.”

“I’ll have you know I’ve been up for nearly two hours.” She smiled at Beth’s “good morning” as she poured herself a cup of java. “We have so much to do today. I have lists to write, calls to make.”

Ida frowned. “I hope you’re not talking about that foolish party again. David is not going to like it.” Ida shook her head, her frown deepening. “Not one bit.”

“No, I’m not talking about the party.” She looked at Beth again. “I’m talking about shopping.”

Beth took a hasty gulp. “I’ll be out of your way in ten minutes.”

“Nonsense.” Mrs. Matthews waved her hand with an air of authority. She was clearly a woman used to getting her way. “You’re going with me.”

DAVID CLEARED off his desk, and then made a notation in his day planner for tomorrow’s meeting with the mayor. Outside his office he heard the secretaries chattering as they locked their desks and turned off their computers, preparing to leave for the day.

Was it really only five? He glanced at the gold-framed desk clock, a birthday gift from Monique last year. She was a nice woman, sophisticated, attractive, a contract lawyer, whose company he’d always enjoyed. Too bad she got tired of trying to compete with his job. Not that he thought that was a problem, but she had, and that was enough to cool the relationship.

He glanced at the clock again. Five-o-three.

And then he stared at the phone. Where the hell were his mother and Beth? And why was Ida being so cryptic?

He’d called once right before lunch, and then an hour ago. All Ida would say is that the other two were out. He was tempted to call his mother’s cell phone, but she never answered the damn thing. He doubted she even knew how to turn it on.

Besides, he never called in the middle of the day and he wasn’t up to getting the third degree, even though it was perfectly logical that he’d want to know if Beth had left and if his mother had been successful in slipping her some money.

“’Night, Mr. Matthews.”

He looked up as Heather, the secretary his assistant hired last week, poked her head in the door. She was young, late-twenties, blond and with a build that wouldn’t quit. Most of the guys in the office were salivating over her.

“Good night, Heather. Drive carefully.”

She gave him a radiant smile. A dangerous one. He quickly turned his attention back to the day planner. She wasn’t the first secretary in the office with eyes for the boss. He had no illusions that he was God’s gift. The money and power attracted them. He’d already traveled that road once, with only scars to show for it.

Long after Heather had left, he stared restlessly at the senseless words on the page. Dammit, he wasn’t going to get any work done. He ought to just go home. So what if it was earlier than usual? It was his house. He had a right…

He packed up his briefcase, and then got into his private elevator without saying anything to the staff lingering in the office. Not accustomed to rush hour, he cursed the traffic bottling up the Golden Gate Bridge, but managed to dictate two memos by the time he turned into his driveway.

Marvin was washing the limo on the side of the house as David pulled into the garage. He was tempted to ask his mother’s driver where she’d been all day, but then figured he’d find out soon enough.

And then it struck him. What he really wanted to know was whether Beth was still here. Not that it made any difference to him. Except that he’d warned his mother not to get attached. Beth wasn’t a stray puppy she could keep around to pamper and dote upon.

But it wasn’t even that so much. If Ida hadn’t sounded as though she were guarding a national secret, he wouldn’t be so curious…suspicious…that was a better description. He would never have left the office early. At least he’d had the sense to pack his briefcase with enough work to last the rest of the evening.

As soon as he opened the door to the kitchen he smelled the aroma of roasting meat. Garlic was in the air, too. Not something Ida usually used very much. No one was in the kitchen, and it had been so long since he’d gotten home this early, he didn’t know if that was the norm or not.

He peeked into the living room, and then the family room. Not a soul was around. Laughter came from down the hall and he stopped to listen.

Beth was still here.

Her soft yet uninhibited laugh was unmistakable, and an unexpected sense of peace warmed him. Perhaps because he didn’t have to wonder where she’d found shelter for the night. After all, no one was using the guest room….

His mother walked out of Beth’s room, still laughing over something but immediately sobered upon seeing him. “David, you’re home.”

“So I am. Excuse me. I was about to change.” He tried to sidestep her.

“David? Is anything wrong?”

“No. Why?”

“You haven’t come home this early since…” She shrugged, her speculative gaze drawing toward Beth’s room.

Great. Just great. “I have a lot of work to catch up on and the office was too distracting.”

She smiled, nodded, her expression annoyingly patronizing. “We’ll be having dinner in about half an hour. I’m delighted you can join us.”

“I’m afraid that isn’t possible—”

The words died when Beth walked out of the room. Her hair was down, the coat was gone and the way the lavender dress hugged her slim curves nearly knocked him off his feet.

She gave him a shy smile. “Hi.”

“You’re still here.”

Her expression fell.

“David!” His mother’s appalled voice jolted him.

Beth looked helplessly at her.

“I only meant—” He cleared his throat. “I was simply surprised.”

“I had every intention of leaving this morning,” Beth began, “but—”

“I talked her out of it.”

David looked at his mother, her eyes narrowed in warning. He gave her a look of his own, one that meant they’d talk later. “I’ll be in my study.”

“Fine.” His mother smiled. “I’ll let you know when dinner is ready.”

About to tell her he wouldn’t be joining them, he glanced at Beth again. She did look rather stunning, her hair so shiny it looked like spun gold. The exhaustion and strain were gone from her face and she was much prettier than he’d first thought.

He could make time for dinner. Why not? By tomorrow she’d be gone. It wouldn’t hurt him to be sociable for an hour.

“All right,” he said and started to loosen his tie. “I’ll go change and then check with you before I start in on my reading.”

“Splendid.” His mother clasped her hands together and looked adoringly at their guest. “We’re in for a treat. Beth cooked tonight.”

He frowned. “Is anything wrong with Ida?”

“No. Beth insisted as a sort of interview.” His mother smiled. “I talked her into staying and filling in while Ida’s gone.”

Beth couldn’t imagine what everyone thought of dinner. The pork chops tasted like cardboard. Not even the rich brown mushroom sauce salvaged them. And the potatoes…oh, God they stuck in her throat like wallpaper glue.

“This meal is fabulous.” Maude sat at the head of the table. She put down her fork and looked at Ida. “I thought you said pork chops were too dry, that’s why you don’t make them.”

“They wouldn’t be dry if you let me fix them proper like.” Ida sniffed. “You’re always too worried about fat and calories.”

“This sauce doesn’t taste fatty at all.”

Ida cocked her head to the side. “No, it doesn’t. What have you got in here, Beth?”

“Chicken stock thickened with pureed roasted vegetables instead of butter and flour. Lots of garlic, too.”

They were being nice, probably didn’t want to hurt her feelings. Why hadn’t she left this morning? By now she could have been halfway to…Good question. She still hadn’t figured that out yet. But she’d better do it quick. After this disastrous dinner, she’d be lucky to keep the temporary job.

Of course the possibility existed that dinner wasn’t so horrible. That it only tasted that way to Beth because her mouth was drier than the Mojave Desert. Being nervous always did that to her.

She slid David a furtive glance. He sat silently at the other end of the table while the other two women chatted about sugar and carbohydrates. At least he had an appetite. In fact, he’d already polished off half the food on his plate. His expression hadn’t changed though. He still had the same sullen look he’d had from the time his mother announced Beth would be staying.

“Beth?” Maude stared at her with concern.

“I’m sorry. Did you say something?”

Ida snorted, and Maude gave her a censuring look.

“I’d really like you to give Ida this recipe. David, isn’t it wonderful?”

He nodded, and then took a sip of the wine he’d brought up from the cellar. When he hadn’t poured any for Beth, Maude said nothing, but Ida asked if he’d forgotten his manners. Beth knew right then that he’d told his mother about the pregnancy. But no one had told Ida. That they had protected her privacy in that small way gave her a warm fuzzy feeling.

Maude sighed. “Really, David, you could show a little more enthusiasm for all the work Beth put into dinner.”

Beth groaned inwardly.

“Speaking of work…” He set down his fork, pulled the napkin off his lap, folded it in two and set it beside his plate. “Thank you, Beth, for an outstanding meal.”

He picked up his half-full wineglass as he stood. Beth’s gaze drew to the snugness of his jeans and she quickly looked away.

“You can’t leave yet,” Maude said. “We haven’t had dessert.”

“I’ll pass.”

“You can’t. Beth made a peach parfait.”

“That’s all right,” Beth said quickly. “It’ll keep.”

David eyed her, his expression unreadable, and then his gaze swept the table. “Excuse me, ladies.”

Maude started to say something, but refrained when Beth threw her a pleading look. No one said another word until David left, and then Ida spoke.

“That boy is going to work himself to death. He’ll end up having a heart attack just like his daddy.” She sent Maude an apologetic glance. “God rest his soul.”

“Yes,” Maude said absently, clearly distracted as she stared off after David. “But he did come home early. That’s something.”

“That it is.” Ida glanced at Beth and then tried to hide a smile behind her napkin.

Beth saw it though and wondered what the heck that meant. “He probably wanted to make sure I’d left. I promised him I’d be gone today.”

Maude’s brows rose sharply. “David wouldn’t expect you to leave with no place to go.” Her gaze flickered. “He told me a little about your situation. I hope you don’t mind.”

Beth shook her head, and noticed that Ida’s interest had suddenly piqued. Maude would have a time evading her questions. Beth didn’t care. She set her barely touched food aside and stood.

Maude’s concerned gaze met hers. “You haven’t finished your dinner.”

“I’ll be back to clear the table after you’ve had dessert. It’s in the fridge.”

“But where are you going?”

Beth took a deep breath. She hated nothing worse than confrontation. “To talk to your son.”

THE KNOCK at his study door was too soft to be either his mother or Ida. That left Beth. For a moment he thought about not answering. But that would be childish. Anyway, she’d corner him sooner or later.

He hadn’t even opened his briefcase yet and he quickly placed a stack of papers on the desk in front of him. “Come in.”

The door opened but he didn’t look up right away. He made a production out of dragging his gaze away from the top sheet as if it were the answer to the national debt instead of a proposal for the company Christmas party.

“I know I’m bothering you but this can’t wait.”

The determination in Beth’s voice surprised him and he leaned back and gave her his full attention. “No bother. Have a seat.”

She tucked a strand of hair behind her ear with a nervous hand, and then lowered herself to the nearer of the two brown leather club chairs. She huddled to one side, leaving half the seat vacant.

“I’m sure you were disappointed I wasn’t gone by the time you got home, but I’d like to explain.” She shifted, crossing her legs. He tried not to look, but her hem rode up a few inches above her knees, capturing his interest.

“You see, your mother…” She hesitated, wrinkling her nose, no doubt searching for tact. “Well—”

“My mother could make Attila the Hun look like a cub scout when she has her mind set on something. You don’t have to explain.”

“But I do. I told you I’d be gone but she offered me the job of filling in for Ida and it seemed a great solution for both of us.”

“Of course. It makes perfect sense.”

“Then why do you look as though you want to bite my head off?”

David leaned back in his chair, admittedly feeling a little uneasy. Not angry. “I wasn’t aware I appeared that way.”

“It’s the clothes, isn’t it?”

“The clothes?”

She lifted her chin, tucked back her hair. “I’m paying her back every cent.”

“I’m not following you.”

“Your mother insisted we go shopping today. She bought me things.” Beth visibly swallowed. “Expensive clothes that may take me a while to repay, but once I get a real job I’ll send something every month.”

“What my mother does with her money is none of my concern. Even if she wanted to buy you a house, it still wouldn’t be my business.”

“But you are upset.”

“Not true. I had no idea you two went shopping today, although knowing Mother, I should have guessed.”

Beth cocked her head to the side. “So why are you in an icky mood? Was it the pork chops?”

He laughed. He couldn’t help it. “Dinner truly was terrific. If I’ve been ‘icky,’ I assure you it has nothing to do with you.”

She studied him, disbelief written all over her face. “May I have a piece of paper and a pen?”

“Of course.” He sat up and handed her a sheet of his personal stationery. “This all right?”

She nodded. “I’m writing you an I.O.U.”

“A what?”

“An I.O.U. It’s a promise to pay—”

“I know what it is.” His patience slipped. “Is that how you handled things back in Idaho?”

Hurt flickered in her eyes. “Back on the farm a promise and a handshake were enough.”

Dammit. He hadn’t meant to sound critical or as if he were belittling her. If anything, her earnestness and accountability impressed him. She could’ve accepted his mother’s generosity without a qualm, knowing they had money. In his business, he’d grown used to freeloaders and people looking for an easy buck.

Not Beth. She wanted to sign an I.O.U. And he hadn’t a single doubt she’d make good on it.

He exhaled, rubbed his eyes. “Beth, you’re not going to write an I.O.U. Whatever my mother bought you, consider a gift.”

“Back on the farm, we don’t accept charity, either.”

“I thought people helped their neighbors in small towns.”

She blinked. “You aren’t a neighbor. You’re a stranger, really, and I’m embarrassed enough that I’ve had to depend on you.” Her hand went to her stomach. “If it weren’t for the baby, I wouldn’t even—” She shook her head. “It doesn’t matter. If you think it’s a bad idea that I stay, I’ll leave first thing in the morning.”

His gaze lingered on the hand she had pressed to her slightly rounded belly. If she weren’t so slim, no one would be able to guess her condition. She could get a job somewhere. A potential employer wouldn’t have to know about her pregnancy.

David thought about his accountant. Didn’t he have a clerk out on temporary disability? Maybe the timing would work out. And then what? Once Beth delivered the baby, what would she do about child care and medical insurance and…

Dammit! This was not his problem.

“David?”

He looked up and met her troubled eyes. Worry lines had formed between her brows.

“You’re looking funny again.”

“I was just thinking.”

She took a deep breath, her breasts rising and falling and gaining his full attention. They weren’t too large, but round and high. “If you have to think about it that long, then there really isn’t anything to think about,” she said and abruptly stood.

“What?” He stared absently for a moment. “No, it’s not that. Please sit.”

She shifted, her stance and expression hesitant before slowly lowering herself back to the chair.

He didn’t understand his resistance. Filling in during Ida’s absence was truly the perfect solution for both parties. His mother needed the help. Her kindness, wisdom and support meant the world to him, but when it came to domestic duties, she was hopeless.

Clueless, in fact. She’d gone from rich parents to a wealthy husband and never worked a day in her life. Her efforts on behalf of her pet charities, however, were tireless and unrelenting. Which worried him. Beth wasn’t a project.

He understood his mother’s desire to want to rescue and protect her. Her youth, her situation. He noticed the fullness of her breasts again, and the way the vee of her dress exposed the top of her cleavage.

Okay, so she wasn’t that young. A totally inappropriate tug in his groin filled him with disgust and he forced his gaze away. Obviously he’d been celibate too long. Still, his reaction was inexcusable.

“David, if you’d rather I come back later—”

He straightened. “Why?”

She shook her head, while regarding him with curiosity. “You seem very distracted.”

If she only knew…He cleared his throat. “I was wondering about your medical insurance.”

Her expression fell, and she sighed.

“Or lack thereof…”

She nodded, her face miserable. “Lack thereof would be appropriate.”

“That’s a problem.”

“Well, no kidding, Sherlock. When did you figure that out?”

Taken by surprise, he laughed.

Beth groaned and covered her face. “That was rude,” she muttered. “I’m sorry.”

“No need to apologize. You’re right. That was an inane remark.”

“Am I fired?”

He frowned, and then saw the twinkle in her eye and realized she was teasing. “On the contrary, I’m thinking I should add you on as an employee of the firm so that you’d be eligible for medical insurance.”

Her eyes clouded with doubt.

“Of course you’d remain here to help my mother. Making you an employee would only be a technicality.”

“But what about Tommy? He’d find out, wouldn’t he?”

The surge of anger that assaulted David shocked him. He wasn’t a violent man, but he’d love nothing more than to have his hands around Snyder’s scrawny neck. “Tom isn’t going to hurt you.”

“I know,” she said quickly, her eyes wary. “I only meant that his co-workers might find out about me. I don’t want to cause trouble for him.”

David’s anger swelled. “Why the hell do you care if he’s put out? Have you forgotten what he’s done to you?”

Her hand went to her stomach again. “Hardly.”

He pushed a hand through his hair. “I’m sorry. I was out of line.”

“No, you weren’t. You’re trying to help.” She shrugged, a serene smile curving her lips. “But my dragging Tommy down isn’t going to change anything between us. No matter what, he’ll still be my baby’s father. I hope someday they can have a relationship.”

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