Dara Girard - Her Tender Touch

Satisfaction guaranteed…

The software empire Jason Ward built from scratch is his best revenge against the tragic past he wants to forget. But when a business rival seizes his company, he discovers he has to reinvent his ruthless reputation. Hiring Abby Baylor to give him a polished edge with investors is a brilliant business move. Until she unleashes a desire that has Jason aching to show the gorgeous etiquette coach a few maneuvers of his own.

Still reeling from a messy divorce, Abby’s steering clear of romance, especially with her fiery-tempered new client. But the seductive entrepreneur is tempting her to mix business and pleasure with a passion that soon melts her resolve. However, when secrets from Jason’s past threaten both their futures and their lives, is Abby ready to gamble everything on love—the biggest game-changer of all?

She shook her head. “I can’t risk it.”

“What?”

“Anything more than a personal relationship with you.” She shook her head again. “I mean professional.”

He grinned, pleased she was flustered. “You were right the first time.”

“No, I wasn’t. I can help you, but not if you’re going to play games.”

His grin fell. “I’m not playing games.”

“What happens if you’re disappointed?”

He frowned. “What are you talking about?”

“What if I let you kiss me right now and it’s awful?”

“It won’t be.”

“Will you stop working with me?” she continued. “Or will that satisfy your curiosity enough to let you realize that—”

Jason didn’t hear the rest of her words. Only one important thing echoed in his mind. “You’re going to let me kiss you?”

Abby threw up her hands. “Were you listening to a word I said? I said there are con—”

She didn’t get to finish before his mouth covered hers. Abby felt herself sinking into sweet ecstasy as his mouth claimed hers and he crushed her body to him. His demanding lips caressed hers, his large hands exploring the hollows of her back. She now knew—not just imagined—what he felt like. He fumbled behind her, opened the door to an empty room and pulled her inside.

DARA GIRARD

fell in love with storytelling at an early age. Her romance writing career happened by chance when she discovered the power of a happy ending. She is an award-winning author whose novels are known for their sense of humor, interesting plot twists and witty dialogue. When she’s not writing, she enjoys spring mornings and autumn afternoons, French pastries, dancing to the latest hits and long drives.

Dara loves to hear from her readers. You can reach her at contactdara@daragirard.com or P.O Box 10345, Silver Spring, MD 20914.

Her Tender Touch

Dara Girard

www.millsandboon.co.uk

Dear Reader Dear Reader Dedication Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Chapter 6 Chapter 7 Chapter 8 Chapter 9 Chapter 10 Chapter 11 Chapter 12 Chapter 13 Chapter 14 Chapter 15 Chapter 16 Chapter 17 Chapter 18 Chapter 19 Chapter 20 Chapter 21 Chapter 22 Chapter 23 Chapter 24 Chapter 25 Chapter 26 Copyright ,

“I saw a woman in a kimono and she was completely naked underneath. When she bent over, it was just wrong….”

I heard this comment in a news clip featuring an etiquette coach and knew what career I wanted for Abby Baylor. A career rife with story potential got me thinking: What if a corporate etiquette coach is hired by a man with a traumatic past and a terrible temper? Enter Jason Ward.

However, Jason isn’t the only one with a lesson to learn. For all his ruthlessness and rude ways, he had a tender side I didn’t expect. And Abby had a harder edge that surprised me.

Fortunately, in spite of their ups and downs, the holiday season adds a nice touch to their roller-coaster romance.

Enjoy,

Dara Girard

To my rock (you know who you are) and my support. Thanks!

Contents

Cover

Back Cover Text Satisfaction guaranteed… The software empire Jason Ward built from scratch is his best revenge against the tragic past he wants to forget. But when a business rival seizes his company, he discovers he has to reinvent his ruthless reputation. Hiring Abby Baylor to give him a polished edge with investors is a brilliant business move. Until she unleashes a desire that has Jason aching to show the gorgeous etiquette coach a few maneuvers of his own. Still reeling from a messy divorce, Abby’s steering clear of romance, especially with her fiery-tempered new client. But the seductive entrepreneur is tempting her to mix business and pleasure with a passion that soon melts her resolve. However, when secrets from Jason’s past threaten both their futures and their lives, is Abby ready to gamble everything on love—the biggest game-changer of all?

Introduction She shook her head. “I can’t risk it.” “What?” “Anything more than a personal relationship with you.” She shook her head again. “I mean professional.” He grinned, pleased she was flustered. “You were right the first time.” “No, I wasn’t. I can help you, but not if you’re going to play games.” His grin fell. “I’m not playing games.” “What happens if you’re disappointed?” He frowned. “What are you talking about?” “What if I let you kiss me right now and it’s awful?” “It won’t be.” “Will you stop working with me?” she continued. “Or will that satisfy your curiosity enough to let you realize that—” Jason didn’t hear the rest of her words. Only one important thing echoed in his mind. “You’re going to let me kiss you?” Abby threw up her hands. “Were you listening to a word I said? I said there are con—” She didn’t get to finish before his mouth covered hers. Abby felt herself sinking into sweet ecstasy as his mouth claimed hers and he crushed her body to him. His demanding lips caressed hers, his large hands exploring the hollows of her back. She now knew—not just imagined—what he felt like. He fumbled behind her, opened the door to an empty room and pulled her inside.

About the Author DARA GIRARD fell in love with storytelling at an early age. Her romance writing career happened by chance when she discovered the power of a happy ending. She is an award-winning author whose novels are known for their sense of humor, interesting plot twists and witty dialogue. When she’s not writing, she enjoys spring mornings and autumn afternoons, French pastries, dancing to the latest hits and long drives. Dara loves to hear from her readers. You can reach her at contactdara@daragirard.com or P.O Box 10345, Silver Spring, MD 20914.

Title Page Her Tender Touch Dara Girard www.millsandboon.co.uk

Dear Reader Dear Reader Dear Reader Dedication Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Chapter 6 Chapter 7 Chapter 8 Chapter 9 Chapter 10 Chapter 11 Chapter 12 Chapter 13 Chapter 14 Chapter 15 Chapter 16 Chapter 17 Chapter 18 Chapter 19 Chapter 20 Chapter 21 Chapter 22 Chapter 23 Chapter 24 Chapter 25 Chapter 26 Copyright , “I saw a woman in a kimono and she was completely naked underneath. When she bent over, it was just wrong….” I heard this comment in a news clip featuring an etiquette coach and knew what career I wanted for Abby Baylor. A career rife with story potential got me thinking: What if a corporate etiquette coach is hired by a man with a traumatic past and a terrible temper? Enter Jason Ward. However, Jason isn’t the only one with a lesson to learn. For all his ruthlessness and rude ways, he had a tender side I didn’t expect. And Abby had a harder edge that surprised me. Fortunately, in spite of their ups and downs, the holiday season adds a nice touch to their roller-coaster romance. Enjoy, Dara Girard