Raquel typed into the computer. “And will you be paying for both rooms, or shall I bill you separately?” She raised an eyebrow at Reuben, and he rolled his eyes, quickly looking away.

“Put both of the rooms on my credit card, please.” Declan handed her his card. It was refreshing that she had no idea who he was. But if that were the case, why was she so unnerved when he came in? Could he have affected her, just as she was affecting him?

“When do you usually work?” Declan asked.

She shrugged, a delicate blush coloring her lovely cheeks again. “Why?”

He was taken back by the question, looking at her as if she had four heads. Usually women jumped at the chance to go out with him. But it unnerved him to no end. When he asked a girl out, he wanted her to go out with him for him, not for his image or for money.

The woman with white hair approached and slipped her arm around Raquel’s shoulders. “When doesn’t she work?” she joked. “But she is usually here during the day.”

Raquel narrowed her eyes at the woman. Then she turned her attention back to Declan as she handed him his credit card and smiled. “Here are your room keys.” She slid two key cards across the counter and proceeded to tell him where their rooms were located.

“Thank you.” Declan took the cards and slipped them both into his pocket. “It was very nice to meet you, Miss Torres.”

Raquel’s eyes met his as she gave him a warm smile. “It was a pleasure to meet you, too. If you need anything, just let us know.”

Declan started to walk away, but then turned back. “Is Liam White available?”

“He’s back in his office.” She gestured toward the back. “I’ll check to see if he’s available.”

“No, that won’t be necessary.”

Declan started toward the back, but she stepped in front of him, bringing him to a stop. He was a good foot taller than her, even wearing heels. Declan looked down at her, enjoying this a bit too much. He could have easily moved past her, even without the six months of brutal martial arts training he had just endured for his latest movie.

“We’re old friends.” One corner of his lips curled into a smile, leaning in conspiratorially. “I’d like to surprise him.”

She placed her hands on her hips, standing her ground. “Señor, I cannot allow—”

“I’m sure it will be okay... this time.” The woman with white hair placed her hand on Raquel’s back, and then nodded reassuringly. Then she looked at Declan apologetically. “Miss Torres has only been working here for three months.” It was obvious that she was telling Declan in a roundabout way that Raquel was single. Good to know.

“Oh! So that’s why I haven’t seen you,” Declan said, a smile spreading across his lips.

The older woman shrugged, raising an eyebrow. “That and you haven’t been here for a while.”

Declan laughed, nodding. “Yes. That, too.” Then he took a step down the hallway, testing the waters. “Well, if you’ll excuse me.”

Raquel narrowed her eyes, scrunching up her nose as she folded her arms defiantly across her chest, then turned her attention back to the counter.

Declan headed down the hallway and knocked on Liam’s door.

His door flew open a moment later and Liam stood on the other side, a smile spreading across his lips. “Declan! Welcome back, man!” He offered him his hand, but Declan pulled him in for a manly hug. “So, how long are you here for?”

“I’m not sure yet.” Declan sat in one of the two chairs setting in front of his desk, while Liam took his seat behind his desk. “I just got tired, Liam.” Declan sighed. “So, I got on a plane and left.”

Liam chuckled. “You’re kidding me.”

Declan shook his head. “No, I’m not.”

“Were the ladies at the front desk able to find you rooms?” Liam reached for the landline setting on his desk. “If not, I always keep back a few rooms for emergencies.”

“No, no.” Declan waved him off. “Raquel was able to find us both rooms.”

Liam scoffed leaning back in his chair. “Please tell me that you didn’t bring Reuben with you.”

“When I left, he followed me.” Declan shrugged. “Neither of us brought clothes.”

Liam reached for his phone again. “What size do you wear, and I’ll have either Mrs. Bennet or Miss Torres get you some things?”

“That won’t be necessary, but thanks. I’ll take care of it,” Declan said, and then leaned forward. “So, when is Miss Torres off from work?”

Liam scoffed, rolling his eyes. “Seriously? You’re here two minutes and you’re already hitting on the women? My staff?”

Declan shook his head. “No, it’s not like that. She’s beautiful, don’t get me wrong. But there’s something... endearing about her.” Declan shrugged. “I’d like to see where it goes.... or at least take her out to dinner.”

Liam shook his head. “Don’t do it.”

“Why?” A crease formed between his eyes. “Does she have a boyfriend?”

Liam shook his head, his smile fading. “No, but it’s not my story to tell. She’s just been through a lot, is all.”

Declan nodded, understanding. It was good to see that Liam was looking out for her. Declan rose to his feet and extended his hand. “So, wanna play some b-ball while I’m here?” There was a nice basketball court at the lodge. It was one of the reasons why he liked staying here, along with the skiing and other winter sports.

Liam laughed, shaking his hand. “Feel like getting beat?”

Declan leaned close. “In your dreams.”

Liam burst out laughing as he held his hands out to the side. “Hey, take your best shot.”

“I’ll see you soon.” Declan chuckled as he walked toward the door.

“Call me when you want to play,” Liam said. “Maybe in the morning before work?”

Declan chuckled. “Not too early. I’m planning on sleeping in.” He tilted his head to the side. “Jet lag.”

Liam laughed. “Yeah, yeah! I know how you Hollywood stars are!”

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Declan laughed. “I work hard!”

Liam scoffed. “Yeah, at getting a tan.” Then his smile faded. “Welcome home, Declan.”

Declan nodded. “Thanks. It’s good to be back.” As he headed down the hallway, he knew it was true.

“I’m sorry I—” Raquel said as he passed. Obviously, the older woman had probably dished about him after he walked back to Liam’s office.

Declan turned and smiled, his heart taking notice. “Don’t be.” He shrugged. “Treat me like anyone else.”

Raquel nodded as a smile spread across her face. She turned to go back to work, but Declan stopped her.

“So, I’ll see you tomorrow?” he asked, raising an eyebrow.

She shrugged. “I’ll be here.” Then she turned to help another customer standing at the counter.

Declan crossed the room to Reuben and handed him his room key. “I’ll see you later.” He turned to head toward the elevators, but Reuben followed.

Declan couldn’t help but steal one last glance at Raquel. Feeling his eyes on her, she looked over at him and smiled, causing a thrill to run through him as he stepped into the elevator.

Reuben stepped in beside him. “You really shouldn’t do that, you know.”

“Do what?” Declan looked at him innocently.

Reuben shrugged as a smile spread across his face. “You know, lead her on like that.”

“Who says I’m leading her on?” Declan asked as the doors closed.

“You can’t be serious!”

Declan shook his head. “Yes, I’m very serious.” He sighed. “Do a background check and make sure she checks out.” He hated to have to do it, but in his profession, Declan couldn’t be too careful. When the elevator door opened, he walked purposefully toward his room, hoping to finally lose Reuben. Unfortunately, he didn’t take the hint... until he walked into his room and quickly closed the door, shutting him out.

In his suite, Declan smiled as he took in the exquisite furnishings and the huge sliding glass doors that led to the balcony, providing a perfect view of the slopes. Crossing the room, he stood before the window that covered the whole wall, enjoying the view. Snow fell lightly over the ski slopes, creating a magical atmosphere. It was good to be back.