‘Welcome to our home!’
Lee and his wife stood in the door, personally receiving their guests, a warm gesture that he saw made Greer less nervous. From behind them came the buzz of voices and music. Conall smiled, returning greetings as he drew Greer forward.
‘I’d like you to meet Greer, my—’
‘But of course, I know the estimable Ms Munro.’ Their host shook her hand, smiling. ‘My own assistant regards you highly, and we spoke recently.’
Before Greer could respond, Conall continued. ‘My assistant, yes, but also my wife.’
With his hand at her back he felt Greer stiffen. He watched her exhale slowly, maintaining her smile.
Maybe he should have warned her. But then why? They were married. They both knew it could only be a temporary secret. They just hadn’t been out together with people who mattered to them.
Initially he’d been overly cautious, not wanting to make Greer a target for the paparazzi, knowing how unrelenting press interest would be. And as for his family… He’d feared she’d be overwhelmed, maybe even regret agreeing to marry. After all, she’d hesitated long enough to make him fear she’d reject his proposal.
It was natural that he’d inform the Lees.
Plus it ensured the men here tonight understood she was unavailable. She brought out a possessiveness in him he’d never before experienced.
Perhaps it was time to remind Greer too that they were together for the long-term. Lately he felt she doubted it.
The Lees were effusive with their congratulations, especially on discovering they hadn’t been long married.
‘But you wear no ring,’ Mrs Lee exclaimed, puzzled. She was an attractive older woman, elegant and with an obvious fondness for jewellery.
There was a beat of silence before Greer spoke. ‘The fact is I’m not used to wearing them, especially the enormous engagement ring Conall gave me. I packed in a hurry. It turned out I’d left them in Sydney.’
At the other woman’s gasp, she hurried on. ‘They’re safe where they are but Iamwearing another gift of Conall’s. He gave it to me tonight.’ She turned her head, gesturing to the glittering stars in her dark hair.
The other woman exclaimed in delight, drawing Greer into the vestibule, talking animatedly.
Conall made to follow but his hostess shook her head. ‘No, no. You men want to discuss options and deadlines. Let me introduce your wife to some of my friends.’ She beamed at Greer. ‘A bride, and so beautiful and clever too, if she’s able to manage your office.’
At Conall’s surprised look the woman laughed. ‘I don’t mean you’re disorganised, only that you have a formidable reputation. Your wife must be very talented to keep everything under control for you.’
‘She is.’ For some reason his voice acquired a rough edge. ‘I couldn’t do what I do without her. She’sveryspecial.’
Greer turned, eyes locking on his, and he felt like he’d dived into an indigo sea. Warmth bathed him and he felt buoyant. How did she do that? His blood effervesced and his pulse quickened. Heneededher.
Why had he brought her here instead of giving his excuses? They could have spent the evening at the hotel.
‘Ah, newlyweds,’ their hostess purred. ‘It does me good to see the way you look at each other. Don’t worry, I’ll bring your bride back soon.’ Then she ushered Greer past the vestibule’s enormous fountain and fishpond and into the vast gold-accented room beyond.
Lee chuckled. ‘You must forgive my wife’s enthusiasm, but she really will look after your lovely bride. Now.’ He held his arm out. ‘There are people I want you to meet before our sessions tomorrow.’
Conall bit back a refusal. What had got into him? They were in Singapore to finalise this deal. Yet his mind was on Greer. He watched her move through the throng in the next room. Heads turned to watch her and he had to remind himself she was the most capable woman he knew, in the company of their hostess. She’d be fine.
‘Of course. It will be a pleasure.’
Through the next hour or so, Conall kept an eye on Greer from a distance. Any sign that she was distressed or lonely and he’d be there. But she seemed to be enjoying herself, smiling and talking with every appearance of enjoyment. Their hostess led her from group to group, all women, and his tension eased at her happiness.
Conall felt a weight lift. She was beginning to feel better. He’d been worried for her.
Instinctively he turned to look for Greer but there was no sign of her. Excusing himself from a group discussing the Singapore market, he made his way through the crowd filling room after room. There were several red dresses but no Greer. Frowning, he made for the terrace. He couldn’t see her and his pulse quickened.
From this vantage point he saw winding paths, lit by ornate golden lanterns shaped like dragons. He heard laughter in the darkness nearby. He was following the sound when a flash of red caught his eye mere metres away. Greer and… Conall halted in mid-stride, eyes rounding at the sight of a familiar figure.
Shock hit like a blow to the solar plexus. Then his eyes narrowed and he stalked towards the pair.
