Untamed: Bad Boy Fighter Romance (Fighting for Gisele #2) (11 page)

Micah’s sense was that the warm and fuzzy “we raised you out of the goodness of our hearts” was all bullshit. But he didn’t want to scare Gisele. He’d better see what else she had to say first.

“Yuri Danilov isn’t all bad,” Gisele said. “He did raise me as if I was his own daughter. And although it isn’t the life I would have chosen…I am grateful.”

Micah wished he’d known her sooner, that he could have altered the course of events so she wouldn’t have to wrestle with the mob at all. Yet as much as he wanted to save her, he couldn’t change the past. “I can understand how you feel. The Danilovs have been your family since you were a young girl.”

Gisele clasped her hands in her lap. “I did miss my parents, though, horribly. Losing them was something I didn’t get over…but I went on. I had to.”

Micah wanted to wrap her in his arms and tell her everything would be okay.

“My father loved me so much that, before he went to prison, he made sure my future was secure.”

Micah furrowed his brow. “How did he do that?”

“He set up a trust for me,” Gisele said, her eyes brightening with hope. “He’d told me about it before he was taken away.”

“What did he say?” What could a father possibly have told his six-year-old daughter only days before being hauled away to jail?

“My father said that when I grew up I would be able to take care of myself. He’d made sure of that. He had set up a special trust, but I couldn’t access it until my twenty-first birthday.”

“I wonder why he didn’t permit access to the trust earlier? He couldn’t have known that Yuri would take you in, if anything happened to him…could he?” Micah was puzzled.

“I don’t think my father expected anything to happen to him,” Gisele said. “But prison isn’t safe, so he was being cautious.”

Gisele fingered her hair. “I don’t understand why I was required to wait until I turned twenty-one. I’ve thought about it, and the best I can come up with is that he wanted me to be mature…to be able to handle my affairs. I suppose to be responsible enough to do so.”

Her father’s excessive caution sent off alarm bells in Micah’s mind. “How much money is in this trust?”

“I don’t know,” Gisele said. “The law office has been in touch with me over the years. The attorney currently handling the matter will only say that the trust consists of the contents of a safe deposit box.”

Micah’s heart thumped. Shit, what was in that box?

“I’ve waited so long to see what’s inside that I’m kind of nervous, and that’s why I need you, Micah. The only people who know about it are the Danilovs. We don’t discuss it, but they know I’ll open it soon.”

“Do they assume you’ll tell them what’s in the box?” Before Gisele could answer, Micah continued, “Because I’m trying to get my head around this. The Russian mob is wealthy. I can’t imagine they care about funds your father left for you.”

“That’s my thought too,” Gisele said. “I’m sure Yuri will be glad to see me take care of myself, so he doesn’t have to support me. But…”

Micah leaned forward. “What?”

“It’s just that every time I talk about leaving, Alek balks. He doesn’t say anything, but I can tell he isn’t pleased at the idea of my independence,” Gisele said.

“That’s probably all there is to it: just that taking possession of the safe deposit box means that I will move out and be on my own.” Gisele looked distressed. “But I’m overly anxious, and I don’t want to do this all alone. I refuse to involve Abby in this, since I don’t know what
this
is.”

“And what could she do anyway?”

“Exactly,” Gisele said. “I need some support, and I’m counting on you. I know I shouldn’t put this burden on you, but I don’t know where else to turn.”

Micah opened his arms and Gisele came over to sit on his lap. For a moment, he just embraced her. “I’m here,” he said, stroking her back. “And I’ll protect you.” From what, Micah didn’t know. The mob had resources beyond what he could imagine.

But Micah wasn’t about to let anything happen to Gisele. Things were about to get messy; he knew that. He’d stay sharp and be ready. There was something the mob wanted, so he’d just have to make sure they didn’t get it. And that Gisele didn’t get hurt in the process.

“I feel better after talking to you,” Gisele said. “I’m sure I’m worrying for no reason, but I like knowing you’re on my side.”

“I’m always on your side, honey.”

Micah wanted to spend the day with her, but Gisele had to work. She didn’t think it was a good idea to skip out then have Alek discover that she was with Micah. “My brother knows I’m seeing you. I told him it’s not his decision, and warned him not to interfere again,” Gisele said. “But I don’t think it’s wise to annoy him. I’d rather play it cool until my birthday…then I can do whatever I want.”

“You are my only concern, so if showing up for work takes the heat off, I’ll live with it,” Micah said. “I’ll take a cab back to the complex with you.”

They caught a cab in front of the hotel, and took the short ride to Gisele’s condo. Micah walked her up to the entrance. “I don’t need to go in,” he said. “If Alek sees me, I’m sure it would just piss him off.”

“Unfortunately, you’re probably right.”

“And if he gives me attitude, I might lose it,” Micah said. “I still owe him payback for that first night at the high-stakes table. It was cheating to accept my wager and then not let me leave the complex with you.”

Gisele smiled. “You expect honesty and fairness from the mob?”

Micah laughed. “No, I don’t,” he said, then pulled her into his arms and kissed her deeply. Gisele’s sweet taste and intoxicating scent made him want to do more. He made the kiss last, as it was all he’d have for a while. He looked forward to seeing her again, but it wouldn’t be soon enough to suit him.

Gisele put her palm on Micah’s cheek, then turned and disappeared into the cavern of the complex, leaving him to worry about her. He wasn’t too concerned just yet. Gisele’s birthday was still a week away. Whatever happened, Micah would be there when it did.

Chapter 11

As Gisele’s birthday approached, she became more excited by the day. The upcoming event overshadowed any worries. Now that she’d told Micah about the trust, she felt more secure. When she’d spoken to Alek during the week, he’d seemed in good spirits and didn’t show any sign of reticence about the occasion. If her brother had concerns about her upcoming independence, he didn’t show it.

Gisele coordinated with the party planner, and was glad she had someone to take care of the last-minute details. She had considered having a themed party, but decided against it. In lieu of that, an outlandish celebration was planned with stunning decorations and a live band for dancing.

Parties of the wealthy were newsworthy, especially if celebrities attended. Gisele didn’t want a huge guest list composed of people she hardly knew or didn’t care for. Even though her brother knew some influential people, she preferred the short list of those that would truly be pleased to share her big day.

And Alek took pains to keep any mention of the party out of the press, as he made an effort to stay out of the limelight. He hired an excellent band, but passed on inviting any famous performers who would attract outside attention. That was just as well. Gisele didn’t care about that sort of thing; she just wanted to have fun.

Gisele’s birthday was a turning point for her. She’d waited so long to embark upon her life, and anticipated finally doing as she saw fit. In a few more days, she wouldn’t have to abide by her brother’s rules anymore, and the prospect of the change was exhilarating. Her party would be one that she’d long remember, it signified so much.

Choosing the right dress took extra effort, but after three shopping outings Gisele found one she loved. The metallic gold dress by a French designer, crisscrossed at the bust and waist. The bandage knit created an hourglass effect that enhanced Gisele’s slender figure. The formfitting silhouette was a good look for her. The dress was sleeveless with an open back, the hem hitting mid-thigh.

Her Jimmy Choo strappy, glittered evening sandals with three-inch heels went well with her new dress. The black Tahitian pearl earrings and matching necklace that Alek had bought as a gift some years before would provide a lovely accent. She was sure he’d be pleased to see her wear them.

Sunday finally arrived, and Gisele soaked in a perfumed bubble bath to relax before getting dressed. Scented candles surrounded the tub, and the music track of Evita played while she luxuriated. Her thoughts drifted to Micah, as they so often did. She was looking forward to seeing him later, hoping he’d like her new dress.

After Gisele finished and dried off, she put on a robe. Abby would be over soon so they could get ready together, so she had already left her outfit in the closet. A hairdresser was scheduled to come up and assist with their evening hairdos.

Gisele was relieved that Alek hadn’t given her a hard time about attending the party with Micah. It wouldn’t have done any good, as she was past the point of being bossed around by her older brother. Yet he seemed to tolerate Micah better lately, so Gisele didn’t expect friction at the party.

When the buzzer sounded, Gisele let her friend in. Abby was in jeans and a shirt, and carrying a small bag. “Hey, birthday girl,” she said, and gave Gisele a big hug. “This is going to be so fun. I can’t wait.”

“It’s going to be a big bash, I can guarantee you that,” Gisele said, then waved toward the bathroom. “Makeup first?”

“Yes,” Abby said and jiggled her bag. “I brought some stuff.”

In front of lighted mirrors, they worked on their makeup, trading suggestions and getting each other’s opinion on colors. Gisele redid her eye shadow twice. “I shouldn’t be so picky,” she said, then glanced at Abby, who was adding another layer of mascara. “So tell me about Luke.”

Abby grinned. “He’s so cute, isn’t he?” She went back to sweeping the wand over her eyelashes. “After Micah’s fight last week, he took me out dancing. And he’s a decent dancer, too.”

“And?”

Abby giggled. “We spent the night together…what do you think?”

“You did seem to hit it off.”

“You could say so. And he’s got that fighter’s body,” Abby said. “I don’t care if he’s in the ring or not, as long as I can get my hands on all that muscle.”

Gisele laughed. “I bet.”

“Anyway, I had to work all week, so we’ll see how it goes tonight. He is fun, and I can see why he’s friends with Micah.”

Gisele lifted her brows. “A bit of a wild one?”

“He is
that
,” Abby said. “So is Alek cool about Micah being your date tonight?”

“Does he have a choice?”

Abby shrugged. “Sure, he could be a pain in the ass, like he has been before.”

“I suppose he realizes that wouldn’t do any good. I’ll be gone soon,” Gisele said. “I’d like to think that he doesn’t want to get on my bad side.”

“Yeah, I’m sure the relationship will change once you’re on your own,” Abby said. “He won’t be responsible for you in the same way.” She took a sip of mineral water from a bottle. “Any more ideas on where you want to move?”

“Not sure yet,” Gisele said. “Vegas is my home now, and I don’t know people anywhere else. I think I’ll stay around. Chicago is out; I don’t want to move back there.”

“That’s good, because I would miss you.”

“Like you say, the East Coast is too cold.” Gisele dusted powder over her cheeks.

“Where is that hairdresser?” Abby said, just as the buzzer sounded.

Gisele let the woman in, and she performed magic on both of them. First, Abby’s blond hair transformed into an elegant knot at the back of her head, with a few tendrils allowed to escape. “That’s gorgeous,” Abby said, looking in the mirror. “I wish I was that talented with my hair.”

Then Gisele’s long, flowing curls were piled on top of her head, with glittery combs to hold them in place. “I look like a Grecian goddess,” she said, afraid to touch for fear the style would come tumbling down.

The hairdresser doused their hair with hairspray. “Don’t worry, you’ll last through the evening. I’ve made sure your hair will stay in place.”

After showing her out, Gisele returned to shimmy into her bandage dress, while Abby stepped into her short cocktail dress. It was lavender with a strapless sequined top, and had a taupe organza skirt under a lace overlay. “That does look good on you,” Gisele said.

Abby turned to look in the mirror. “I love it,” she said, smoothing the skirt with her hands. Then she looked at Gisele. “Wait until Micah sees you in
that
dress. All he’ll be thinking about is taking it off of you.”

Gisele grinned. “I’m counting on it.”

As soon as they were ready, they went down to the lobby, but didn’t have to wait long for their ride. A chauffeur opened the door to the entrance and bowed. “Good evening, ladies.” They followed him out to a black limo, where their dates waited.

Luke was seated in the back, but Micah got out and ushered the ladies inside. He wrapped his arm around Gisele and kissed her lips. “You are stunning in that dress,” he said.

“I thought you’d like it.” Gisele got in the car and scooted over to make room for Micah. The gold dress hiked up, revealing a lot of thigh, and Micah noticed. He sat beside her and ran his fingertips over her knee.

Abby sat across from them, beside Luke, who gave her a kiss and told her how pretty she looked. “Thank you,” she said, with a bit of a blush to her cheeks.

“I haven’t seen you dressed up before,” Abby said, looking over at Micah.

“I heard this was a formal affair.”

Micah wore charcoal slacks that tightened over his muscular thighs, paired with an ivory shirt under a blazer. Even with the jacket on, Gisele could see the shape of his wide shoulders and big arms. He had silver studs in his earlobes and a narrow chain around his neck. He looked good enough to eat.

Abby turned to Luke. “And I like your party style,” she said, with a coy smile. He’d worn a similar outfit to Micah’s, slacks with a blazer.

“I couldn’t face wearing a tie, though,” Luke said, patting the front of his shirt.

Gisele laughed. “Ties aren’t required.”

Micah pulled out a bottle of champagne, and Luke got four glasses from the cabinet. He popped the cork, and bubbles overflowed the top onto the carpet. Then he poured some in each glass, and Luke handed them around.

“I’d like to toast to the beautiful birthday girl,” Micah said, lifting his glass. “May this be one heck of a party and…” The glasses clinked together. “Happy twenty-first birthday, Gisele.”

Abby and Luke chimed in with birthday wishes, and sipped the champagne.

“Thank you.” Gisele lifted her glass. “It’s going to be an awesome night!”

They arrived at the party before they’d finished their first glass of champagne. The driver pulled up to let them out at the entrance. It was at a rooftop villa, a huge private residence that Alek had rented for the night.

The day before, Gisele had been given a tour of it, and had left an overnight bag in the master bedroom. When the party was over she planned to spend the night there, and make her birthday last. The place had a thirty-foot fireplace, adjustable mood lighting throughout, and a DJ’s booth with room for dancing. Best of all was the 360-degree view of the Strip and the night sky beyond.

They went up to the rooftop terrace, where many guests were already drinking. The live band played some popular tunes, and music videos ran on the outdoor theater screen. Silver and royal-blue ribbon decorated the space, hanging from the lights and adorning the tables, along with clusters of white and blue balloons. A banner that hung from the ceiling said:
Happy 21
st
Birthday, Gisele
.

Micah took her hand and they walked over to the bar. “What’s your pleasure?” he said.

“I’ll have some champagne,” Gisele said. “I was enjoying it.”

“Same for me,” Abby said.

Micah turned to the bartender. “Champagne for the ladies.” He glanced over at Luke.

“Bourbon on the rocks,” his friend said.

“Two of those,” Micah said, reaching for the champagnes the bartender slid across the counter.

When they had their drinks, Gisele went around socializing with friends and acquaintances, while Micah followed her, sipping his bourbon. Most of the guests were people that she’d chosen, but Alek had invited a few friends too.

Outdoors by the pool, Gisele saw Vik talking to a couple of other guys. He was dressed in a suit and had trimmed his hair. When she glanced over, he looked up, but didn’t come over. Alek had probably warned him not to make a scene on her birthday.

Micah noticed the man, and stiffened. “I should have known he’d be here.”

Gisele squeezed his hand. “It’s not a problem; just ignore him. Alek invited him.”

“That figures.” Micah glared at Vik, who stared back.

Wanting to avoid trouble, Gisele guided Micah inside for some food. Luke and Abby were already there, nibbling on shrimp and looking totally into each other. The buffet was a work of art. A row of shrimp cocktails in tiny, clear bowls lined a narrow shelf on a table. Above was a row of drinks in crystal glasses.

Tables of food were arranged with appetizers of many varieties, colorfully displayed and looking mouthwatering. Guests milled about with plates of food, chatting, while the music played in the background. Gisele wasn’t hungry yet, but Micah piled some tasty treats on a plate and tried several items. “Mmm, good food,” he said.

Micah’s presence added to the joy of the event. He’d attended with Gisele despite any risk. It wasn’t that she expected anything bad to happen at her birthday party. Still, she felt better with him by her side, and her hopes for the future were high.

For the evening, Gisele didn’t have to fret about her trust, or be concerned about what was in it. Her birthday was on a Sunday, so the banks were closed. She couldn’t do anything about it, even if she wanted to. So for now, she could forget about it.

The party continued in lavish style, with the food and drink flowing. The band shifted to disco music and a few couples began dancing, including Luke and Abby. “Shall we?” Micah said, and Gisele took his hand to follow him to the dance floor.

Without his blazer, and his sleeves rolled up showing his thick forearms, Micah was very swoon-worthy. And he was a pretty good dancer, too. Gisele flirted with him as they danced and swayed to the booming beat, then fell into his arms when the music shifted pace for a slow dance.

Wrapped in his arms, Gisele breathed in his cologne and masculine scent. She leaned her head on his powerful shoulder, emotions swirling inside her. She hadn’t expected to meet a man like Micah, nor predicted that he’d spend this birthday with her.

Micah stroked her spine and ran his palm over her ass. “I do like that dress,” he whispered in her ear.

Gisele put her arms around his neck. “My birthday is so much better…because you’re here.” She kissed Micah’s neck, and he squeezed her close. Then the music ended, and they were interrupted by a clanging noise to get everyone’s attention.

Alek stood up on the platform by the band. He lifted a glass. “If you’ll all get a drink, I’d like to propose a toast.” He looked every bit the Russian mobster up there, with his slicked-back hair and too-tight jacket. Her brother waited, while guests shuffled around for their glass.