After the Hurt Read online

  The tangle of jealousy that erupted in her belly almost made her nauseated. Pepper forced herself to turn and see who the person was who made him look so happy. She wished with all her might for him to look at her like that again. When Pepper saw Meg coming toward them, relief washed over her. His sister. Not his lover. But that meant she had the whole evening ahead of her to worry and wait for the woman to whom he’d declared his love to show up.

  Meg still had her cane but didn’t seem as reliant upon it as she once was. Pepper was genuinely pleased to see her and stepped forward to greet her.

  “Meg, hello.” Pepper wasn’t sure what to expect and when Meg turned her blue eyes, so like Tank’s, to her, Pepper was relieved to see a hint of warmth in them.

  “Pepper. Nice to see you.” One thing about Meg, she was to the point and her gaze didn’t waver. You knew exactly where you stood and there was no room for misinterpretation. “Tank said you’ve settled in. How long do you think you’ll stay?”

  Pepper smiled and glanced at Tank. He’d been talking to Meg about her. That excited Pepper, “Ah, yes, I have.”

  “How long do you think you’ll stay?”

  The question cast a pall over her. Just the thought of leaving hurt, so she chose to pretend she hadn’t heard the question. Thankfully, Meg didn’t repeat it.

  “So, it looks like there’s going to be a good turnout. Where did you set up the silent auction?” she inquired.

  “In the piano bar. Since they won’t be dueling tonight, only serenading, it seemed the most appropriate place.”

  Meg looked over her shoulder and nodded. “Yes, you’re right. I’ll go over and have a look.”

  Tank nodded and took Pepper’s arm again. “Right, then. We’re going to the door to welcome all your charity contributors.”

  Meg smiled. “You mustn’t forget this is your night too. I’m just taking full advantage of the well-heeled crowd you’ll get so my charity can benefit.”

  Tank squeezed Meg’s shoulder and watched her walk away. He didn’t offer assistance but kept an eagle eye on her movements. Pepper smiled, realizing how well he knew Meg. She was the queen of independence and it would be a rare moment indeed if she asked for help.

  “Let’s go.” He led her to the door.

  It was a whirlwind night. The place was packed and Pepper was never far from Tank’s side. All his doing, which pleased her immensely.

  “I see Meg at the bar; I want to chat with her for a moment,” Pepper told Tank. She’d wanted to find a quiet spot to have a conversation with her, but the night hadn’t cooperated until now. She was alone in the crowd and now was as good a time as any. Meg had been so focused on her career and establishing her practice, she’d rarely dated. Pepper wondered if she even knew how. Was she lonely? Did she ever go out? A sadness filled her for Meg and she made a quick wish for her to find happiness and love. After what she’d been through, she more than deserved it.

  Meg had hooked her cane on the back of the barstool. She settled in her chair, looking very comfortable with herself. Pepper tapped her on the shoulder.

  “Meg?”

  She turned. There was no hostility reflected in her gaze. Just a quiet patience that Pepper recognized from when they first met years ago.

  “Pepper. I think the evening is a success. Don’t you?”

  “I think so. It will be exciting to get the tally for the auction.” She paused and dove in. “I want to apologize to you.”

  Meg’s eyebrows rose. “Me? Why?”

  Pepper glanced at the floor and then looked her dead in the eye. “Tank and I had, have¸ our troubles that we need to sort out. If I’ve upset you at all, I’m sorry for that. I didn’t want you to get caught in the cross fire.”

  Meg leaned back on the stool. Her face softened and she smiled. It caused such a rush of emotion in Pepper she nearly teared up.

  Meg rested her hand on Pepper’s forearm and she couldn’t have been more surprised by the friendly gesture.

  “Thank you, but it’s not me you need to apologize to.” Meg glanced quickly at Tank, who was in conversation with a crowd of people. “You both have to figure this out for yourselves and see where it will lead.”

  Pepper was about to dive in and ask Meg if Tank had a girlfriend when she was jostled by a man with his back to her.

  “I’m so sorry.” He faced the women and bowed his head. She looked up and was struck by his very handsome features. His dark, chocolaty eyes and expressive brows showed his concern that he’d nearly knocked her over. Pepper quickly took in his appearance. He didn’t fit in with the rest of the crowd and seemed cut from a different cloth. He wore jeans and an expensive-looking jacket with a white dress shirt. If she didn’t know better, she’d say he was a cowboy. Urban cowboy? But that seemed kind of lame. Yet there was something, because the wildness about him made her catch her breath.

  “Not to worry. It’s rather packed in here,” Pepper said.

  The man reached out his hand to Pepper. “Christian Hunt. Pleasure to meet you. Great turnout.”

  “Yes, it is. Thanks so much for coming.” His name sounded very familiar, and his accent gave him away. He was from somewhere west. Texas, Colorado, Wyoming…but Pepper couldn’t place it. An idea formed in her mind. “Please, let me introduce you to Meg Sherman. Tank’s sister.”

  He turned his gaze to Meg. For the first time ever, Pepper swore Meg was speechless. Her petite, blonde, blue-eyed beauty a complete juxtaposition to his dark, muscular wildness. Could this be a match? The two of them?

  “Pleasure, Meg.” He took her hand and held it perhaps a little longer than necessary.

  Pepper stepped back. Neither of them noticed.

  “How nice to meet you, Christian,” Meg answered and shifted on her stool. Pepper felt bad for her, knowing she was trying to hide her cane and conceal her leg under the edge of the bar.

  “Oh, I have to speak to Tank. Please excuse me.” Pepper slipped away, leaving the two of them. She’d done her part and hoped that something would come of it for Meg’s sake.

  Tank seemed engrossed in a deep conversation across the room and she didn’t want to disturb him. So she picked up a glass of champagne from a passing waiter and tucked herself out of the way. She watched Tank, admiring the ease he had with people. It was then she remembered the “I love you” he’d said on the phone. Pepper was perplexed. Was his girlfriend a no-show? Tank didn’t seem to be watching for anyone. Nor did he seem upset. It confused Pepper, but what it also did was make her more determined to not be the other woman. If he’d moved on, then she had to accept that. Although if that were the case, she had no idea what she would do. Until then, all she could do was hope for the best and support their business—Octagon.

  But the night wasn’t over. This mystery woman still might show up and she’d have her answer.

  Chapter 12

  Pepper didn’t want the night to end. She was in heaven. Just like old times. Tank kept her close too, his arm around her, and she wasn’t going to argue. She got through each minute by trying not to think of the impending arrival of Tank’s mystery woman.

  Three of his MMA buddies had turned up, which of course sent a buzz through the crowd. Celebrities were here. Sam, Cork, and TJ had flown in special from Vegas for their opening. There was a big fight coming up so for them to take any bit of time out from training was a huge surprise. She hadn’t seen them since Tank retired and was so glad they’d come. It gave a bit of celebrity status to the party that she hoped would make the entertainment news. Perhaps even TMZ.

  It was good to see Tank so happy and vibrant after the last few days of his brooding intensity and distance. She glanced up at him and a swell of love blossomed in her chest; such sweet torture. Even with the knowledge that the woman he loved could turn up at any moment, Pepper wasn’t going to let it ruin her night. This was her time with Tank. This was their restaurant. And it was only right that they be together for its grand opening. Right? And she would guard it, cherish it, da
re anyone to try to take it away from her.

  She didn’t want to leave his side, but seeing how much he was enjoying rehashing old fights with his buddies, Pepper didn’t want to be a cling-on or cramp his style. She wanted him to love her again and if giving him a little bit of space right now helped with that, then that’s what she’d do.

  She stood on her tippy toes and whispered into his ear, “I’ll be right back. Have fun with the boys.”

  Tank looked down at her and smiled. “Don’t go away.” His hand slipped down her arm and his fingers curled around hers. Shivers of delight rushed through her, lighting her up with happiness.

  Hearing those words come from him was like the sun coming out on a stormy day. Even if it did compound her confusion. How could he be so attentive and suggestive to her when there was someone else he claimed to love? But she wouldn’t think about it now. She’d just bask in the glow of his attention. Pepper squeezed his hand briefly before nodding to the boys. “You guys behave. No brawling, now. We don’t want any broken chairs or to have to get out the bail money.”

  They laughed, and Cork stepped forward, grabbing her around the waist. “What, you mean like this?” He twirled her around with a loud whoop that drew curious attention from the guests.

  “Put me down.” Pepper laughed and smacked him on the shoulder. “Things never change, do they?” But she was glad they hadn’t changed. She loved the camaraderie and that they didn’t treat her any differently. She figured Tank would’ve told them about her abrupt departure so the fact that they were still the same old boys with her was a huge relief.

  Sam stood back with his muscular arms crossed over his powerful chest, always the one to assess situations before jumping in. But, as they say, still waters run deep. He smiled at her and gave her a wink. She winked back. He’d always teased her and, similarly, Tank. He knew how to rile her up and get her temper hopping.

  TJ was the ladies’ man. He never allowed himself to be caught by feminine wiles. Women flocked to him. In droves. He had some kind of magic magnet that women found irresistible. He was famous for loving and leaving them, leaving a trail of destruction in his wake. Why women thought they could change him was a mystery to Pepper. Anyway, she was sure he had a softer side under the cavalier attitude, but she hadn’t seen it yet. She felt sorry for any woman who opened her heart up to him, because her bed would be empty the next morning with him long gone. Maybe he just needed the right woman to settle him down. Even with his abrasive and unpredictable nature, Pepper really liked him. Why? She had no clue. She just sensed there was a hurt little boy hiding inside.

  “Remember what I said, boys,” Pepper instructed, wagging her finger at them before leaving them to do whatever guy things they had up their sleeves. She meandered through the crowd, smiling and stopping to chat as she made her way to the back of the house. She wanted to rest her feet for a few minutes. The night was still young and a quick break was in order.

  Wow, was she feeling great! The sense of inner peace and well-being was something Pepper hadn’t felt in a long, long time. She was determined to hold on to it and let nothing get her down.

  “Champagne?” The blond bartender who had served her pasta the other night was carrying a tray of flutes.

  “Yes, don’t mind if I do. Thanks. You know, we were never fully introduced.”

  A wide smile broke out on his handsome face. “Trent. At your service.”

  She reached out her hand and replied, “Pepper. Tank and I—”

  “Yes, you’re part owner with Tank.”

  Pepper’s eyebrows shot up. This was news. How on earth did Trent know? Had Tank told the staff? All kinds of thoughts raced through her head and by the time she’d recovered from the shock enough to ask Trent, he’d disappeared into the crowd. Hmm. What am I supposed to do with this tidbit of info?

  Pepper sipped the champagne and wove her way to the office. Just before disappearing behind the wall of wine, she turned to look around the room. All the people. Laughing and talking. Sampling the wonderful food being passed around by the waitstaff and on the tables. The upbeat and energetic atmosphere was infectious. The party was a hit. Octagon was a hit. Wow, what a night.

  Pepper sought out Tank, one of the tallest men in the room. It was easy to spot him and her gaze ate him up. Pepper’s heart fluttered. He took her breath away. Tank seemed to stiffen and turned his head. She smiled when his gaze fell on her. It wouldn’t surprise her in the least if he had sensed her watching him. That was just part of the marvelous connection they had together.

  Everything seemed right with the world and for the first time in a while she felt optimistic about the future. Not taking her eyes off Tank, Pepper laughed when he winked at her. His grin widened and she swore she saw him wink again before giving his attention back to his friends.

  God, how she loved that man. She couldn’t wait until the timing was right to tell him.

  Pepper sighed and took another look around before disappearing into the back to rest her feet. The office door was open. It was the closest room that had a door she could shut behind her and a chair to flop into. It was small and very well organized. Pepper groaned with delight after dropping into the big leather chair behind the desk. They’d rescued the chair and the huge, old oak desk from the end of a driveway years ago. Pepper smiled, remembering how she’d refinished both and rubbed the leather until it was soft and supple again. She ran her hands along the worn armrest and sighed. It almost felt like she was sitting in Tank and she snuggled a little deeper. Leaning back, she propped her feet on the chrome wastebasket and closed her eyes, resting her head on the high back of the chair. Sounds of the party on the other side of the door comforted her. Lulled her.

  Tonight was not what she had expected. At all. And it almost seemed too good to be true. One thing her mom had always said to her, if it seems too good to be true it usually is. Now wasn’t the time for negative thoughts. She wouldn’t let anything ruin the fact that she and Tank had been a good team.

  The sound of breaking dishes and a roar of approval from the crowd jolted her up and Pepper nearly spilled her champagne, which she’d been resting on her thigh. She must have dozed off. Sitting forward, she placed the glass on the desk. It nearly toppled over and she caught it just in time. A splash of champagne landed on some official-looking papers.

  “Shit, shit.” How could she be so careless?

  Pepper looked around for something to wipe them off with. Not finding anything, she picked up the sheaf of papers and shook off the liquid.

  It was some kind of legal document. “Oh, man. This is not good. Champagne on something official.”

  It wasn’t like she looked on purpose or anything, but her name seemed to jump right off the page.

  Pepper furrowed her brows. The hell with not being nosey, her name was on this paper and she was going to find out why. She read further and icy dread slithered through her veins. Was she really seeing what she thought she was seeing? All those feel-good emotions evaporated like rain on a hot sidewalk. He wanted her gone. He didn’t want her to stay. If he did, then why did he have these papers drawn up, splitting the business with her? Buying her out? Pepper reached for the champagne glass, needing a strong drink and wishing it was full to the brim. She saw what it was sitting on.

  “Oh my God. What the—” This time she didn’t hesitate and grabbed. It was a check made out to her and there were a whole lot of zeros on it.

  Anger roared through her. She’d never been this mad. Blood raced through her veins and she swore to God her ears must be flaming red. She stood abruptly and the big leather chair whirled back on its antique wheels to crash against the wall. Unsure what to do about this information and more confused than ever, Pepper tried to calm herself down. But it was no use. The document was still in her hand and she scrunched her fingers into a fist, not caring if it crumpled the papers.

  Why hadn’t he talked to her? Was he that chickenshit he couldn’t speak about it? She put the papers on the
desk and smoothed them out with her palms. When had he drawn them up? Scanning the documents, she found what she was looking for. They were dated this morning. And prepared by Meg.

  Pepper was crushed. They were ganging up on her. She felt betrayed and like a laughingstock. How could both of them have been so nice and seemingly sincere tonight? She should’ve known better than to let herself get carried away with optimistic thinking. Whenever she did that, it never ended well.

  Chapter 13

  Pepper wiped the back of her hand over her forehead, pushing back a strand of hair. She’d tied it up, but it refused to obey, constantly fighting the clips or bands. Since the grand opening last week she’d decided to jump in with both feet. Used to rising early, she snuck down into the kitchen before anyone else and started baking little things. She’d always wanted to bake, something her mom did well and tried to teach her. Chef caught her a few days later as she snuck out of the kitchen. He laughed and told her not to feel like a criminal, and if she wanted to cook, he was fine with it.

  And that’s how her mornings began now. It helped to keep her mind off all the other stuff that was hanging over her like a big black cloud. Damned if she’d make it easy on him and bring it up either.

  She knew coming back would be tricky, but it had been harder than she expected. The documents she’d seen the night of the gala had cast a pall on everything. Each step she heard or door opening and closing, the sound of voices in another room—they all seemed like the approach of doom for her. Maybe it was Tank coming to give her the papers. She didn’t even know if the love of his life, the one she’d overheard him say, “I love you” to, had come to the gala, either, because she’d fled up to the loft. God, she was strung tight and needed the distraction of pounding dough to keep her sane. It was getting harder to keep herself under wraps knowing what might be coming down the pipe. But she couldn’t bring it up. She felt it would be like opening Pandora’s box. So best leave it closed for now. Plus, if it was what he wanted, damned if she’d make it easy for him.