The Passion Series Read Online Free PDF Page A

on her. She was still behind on her deadlines.
    “Good morning, Monica.”
    “Heather, listen, come right up. I have something to discuss with you.”
    “Sure.” Now Heather’s curiosity was piqued. This had to be important. She sighed.
    Jenna was out this morning, making a supply run, so Heather locked the office door on her way out to see Monica. The stairs would be faster than waiting for the elevator. She was dressed casually, since she had only intended to drop by the office. Running up the one flight released some tension. She needed that right now.
    “ Heather, thanks for coming up. Have a seat. Would you like coffee?”
    “Yes, I could use it. Just black, please.”
    “You look a little pale. Have you been sleeping okay?”
    That was one subject Heather intended to avoid with Monica, who was known to gossip at the drop of a hat. It was probably a job requirement for someone in her position.
    Monica set the coffee down for Heather and held her own cup in both hands.
    “It seems we have a bit of a problem.”
    Heather raised her eyebrows but didn’t know how to respond.
    “Ryan Spencer Blake,” Monica announced, and took a sip of her hot coffee.
    At the mention of his name, Heather felt dizzy. Dread came over her at the thought that Monica might know about her uninhibited activities with Ryan. Mentally, she scanned the little she really knew of the man and wondered if he would be indiscreet enough to kiss and tell.
    “What do you mean?” Heather gave her most innocent look. She had determined not to confess unless absolutely necessary. She sipped her coffee warily.
    “I spoke to Patricia, his secretary, this morning. I’ve known her for years. I can read her pretty well. She told me in confidence that Ryan seemed a bit preoccupied, which was notable to her. He’s normally in control. She couldn’t imagine what he is stewing about.
    “Anyway, he seems focused on this painting you are going to do for him. It’s apparently very important to him.
    “Patricia said he stated, without much preamble, that she was to cancel his filming today, that he wasn’t feeling himself. She was to schedule an appointment for you to meet at his home to see the wall where he intends to hang the finished painting. He feels it’s better if you know where he will display it. You’ll be better able to understand what he is looking for.
    “For some reason, he seemed to think you might not come. I assured Patricia that Ryan Blake is a top priority. I told her you would clear your diary and be available this afternoon.
    “You’re expected at 3:15. I know you’ll want to have time to arrange your day and go home to change clothes. The limo will pick you up at 2:30 to take you to his home in Beverly Hills.”
    Heather remained silent. Better to hear Monica out and not give anything away by mistake.
    “There’s one thing that puzzles me,” Monica went on.
    “Patricia relayed a comment that I couldn’t make sense of. She said that Ryan feared you were upset with him. He thought you might decline the assignment. He was clear that he didn’t want anyone else. He feels your talents are best suited for the creation of this special painting.
    “Do you have any idea what gave him the idea that you are upset with him?”
    Heather swallowed.
    “Is there something I should know?”
    Heather blushed. “No, not at all, Monica. I had no idea I gave that impression. I admit that seeing him in person had quite an effect on me. I regret that my reactions weren’t properly relayed. I’ll make every effort to smooth things over.”
    “See that you do. And have a good time. After all, if he’s as gorgeous in person as he is on the big screen, this will be quite a treat for you.”
    Heather gave a weak smile. You have no idea , she thought.

9 – Ryan’s Dilemma
    Daniel pulled the black Escalade up the long drive to the grand entrance of Ryan’s home. He’d been watching him during the drive from the office. He marveled at how