The Mammoth Book of Time Travel Romance

Sandra Newgent The Wild Card

“The game’s Texas hold ’em. Are you in, little lady?”

Startled, Camille Desmond stared at the grey-haired gentleman seated behind the green felt-covered table. With swift movements, he flipped cards to the group seated. His soft brown eyes fixed on her. “Ante up?”

Cami shook her head. “I. ah. no thank you. I’m n-not playing.” She’d never played poker before and didn’t want to start now in Atlantic City.

She took a step backwards and bumped into her best friend Gina.

“Oh, come on Cami.” Gina grabbed her shoulders. “Play poker with me. I’ll teach you the ways of the world.” Gina winked at her as she snagged an empty chair.

“I know the ways of the world. Remember? Roger cheating? Leaving me in debt up to my eyeballs? Besides, I’m saving any spare money to open a Warner school.”

“But you should be celebrating your financial freedom. You just paid off Mr Mistake. Try investing a little time in yourself. Find Mr Right-Now, let loose and have some fun.”

Cami’s face burned hotly in the over-air-conditioned casino. “Gina, I can’t ignore the past. And now I’m ready to go home. I’m not about to blow the rest of my money on a silly game of cards and a one-night stand.” Cami softened her tone, not wanting to ruin Gina’s fun. “You stay. I’m not ready to ‘let loose’. I’ll window shop or take a walk on the beach.”

Gina nodded. “OK — for now — but I’m not giving up on you.” She squeezed Cami’s hand. “See ya later.”

Cami left the card pit and wandered through the crowd surrounding the huge array of slot machines. Looking at the spectacular show of flashing lights, this was certainly the place to let loose. The casino of the legendary Caesars Hotel was pulsating with people willing to take any risk.

“Would you care for a complimentary drink?” Cami turned and ran her eyes over the blonde-haired server. The swooping neckline of her skimpy cocktail dress was only outdone by her black fishnet-clad legs and heavily made-up face.

“No thank you.” Cami watched the woman walk away, her voluptuous hips swaying with feline grace. A pang of jealousy tweaked her. The woman was obviously comfortable in her own body and sensuality. Cami peered at her own wavy reflection in the shiny chrome side of a slot machine.

A gawky child of Irish parents, Cami had grown into a tall, willowy redhead. At twenty-seven, Cami knew she had curves in all the right places. Instead of teaching elementary school kids, she could have risen from her financial nightmare by working in a bar, nightclub or even a strip joint. She’d been told she was sexy. Trouble was Cami didn’t feel sexy. Roger had taken that from her. Nope. She was going to open up a school for underprivileged children; she didn’t need anything else. Certainly not a man.

Cami turned away from her reflection and fought her way to the second floor where the crowd had thinned. She wandered down the quiet, tiled hallway and peeked into several shops.

She stepped into a luxurious bath shop. The exotic aromas of expensive toiletries encircled her. She’d splurge on bubble bath, treating herself to a soak. The thought of sliding into the large roman tub in her room, enveloped by sensual, frothy foam lifted her spirits.

But then Cami came to her senses and bought a less expensive bar of soap and a scented candle that reminded her of sultry tropical breezes. She might not need a man, but tonight she’d have a tiny part of her secret fantasy.

After paying for the items, she glanced at her watch. Time to retrieve Gina. They’d have to hurry to freshen up and change clothes before dinner and the show. Cami left the store and moved quickly through the crowds surrounding the checkin desk, slot machines and the bar. She paused in front of a roulette table to search the cavernous game room.

Not seeing Gina, Cami moved away from the table, but a hand on her arm stopped her.

“Excuse me.” The man’s rich, baritone voice slid over her like a lingering caress.

She turned back.

Elegantly dressed in a simple white shirt and black vest, he stared at her with intense green eyes. His dark hair, long and sinfully thick, framed the hard planes of his face.

“Yes?”

For a moment he said nothing. Cami’s heart did a somersault. Good Lord, the man was gorgeous. Her body warmed under his regard and her pulse flickered and leaped.

He held out his hand, offering her a single, white chip.

“I believe you dropped this.”

“I don’t think so.” Cami pulled away, but didn’t break his contact.

“Take it. Your wildest dreams will come true.”

The heat from his touch seeped into her blood. Cami couldn’t think of a response. She couldn’t think at all with him standing so close. She felt compelled to accept the chip. It would be rude not to. Her arm reached out.

“Say it.” Though the words were softly spoken, there was underlying steel to them.

Cami licked her lips. “My wildest dreams. will come true.”

He slowly, seductively placed the chip in her open hand.

Cami’s palm burned as she closed her fingers around the chip. The room wavered and she fought the urge to drop the coloured plastic in her hand. Then her world went dark.

Oh great, I meet a gorgeous man and I faint at his feet. Cami reached for him, but found nothing.

His voice, a low vibration shimmering through her soul whispered, “Take a chance.”

The lights grew brighter. Cami blinked. “Take a what?” The man was gone. “Hey, where are you?”

Cami stood in a darkened corner of a room she didn’t recognize. The roulette table was gone, as well as everything else that had been there. In fact, the room was significantly smaller and more opulently decorated than Caesars casino, with a marble fireplace, matching sofa and loveseat, some wingback chairs, even a billiard table. It looked like the parlour from a Victorian bed and breakfast.

The few round tables scattered throughout the room were occupied by men seated in straight-backed chairs, playing card games. A man in the far corner played a piano, the upbeat tune mixing with the sounds of light conversation and laughter.

Cami blinked again. Nothing changed. What on earth was going on? She felt as if she’d been dropped on to the set of one of those stupid reality shows. Modern woman is whisked away to live the life of a caveman. She must eat woolly mammoth and pee in a cave to experience the true nature of her new world. By the looks of things, this reality show had a Victorian motif. And the “guests” were dressed for the part.

Gina had to be behind this charade. It was just the type of “fun” she’d dream up. Gina must have sent in a sob story about her friend’s sorry life and poof, Cami was dropped into this scene without any warning. That made sense. Fine, she’d go along, for now. But, there’d better be lots of money for starting her school at the end of this or Gina would burn.

Mr Gorgeous Green Eyes at the roulette table must have helped transport her to a studio or another casino. But she didn’t remember travelling anywhere. Cami looked around again. Where were all the cameras, microphones and spotlights? She’d call Gina. Cami tapped her empty pocket and remembered she’d left her purse and cell phone in her room.

Walking away from the parlour, Cami found the front desk and an attendant. Behind the man, a sign announced in bold blue lettering: WELCOME TO THE FREMONT HARBOR HOUSE. She’d never heard of this casino.

“Can I please use your phone?”

“Excuse me?”

“Your telephone. I need to call a friend.”

The man looked at her quizzically. “I’m sorry, madam, but we don’t have a telephone yet.”

“What do you mean ‘yet’?” OK, very realistic extras.

Cami put her hands on the counter. “Look, I need to find my friend, so if you’ll—”

She stopped suddenly as the chip she’d been holding tumbled on to the scarred surface. Except it was no longer a chip at all.

Cami picked it up and studied the silver coin, noting the eagle on one side and the profile of Lady Liberty with the date of 1893 on the other. A five-dollar American eagle coin.

How did it get in her hand? She could have sworn the man at the roulette table had given her a gaming chip. Whew. Maybe she did need this reality diversion. She must have blacked out and now couldn’t remember anything.

“Madam, may I summon your travelling companion?”

Cami closed her hand around the coin. “No thank you. I’ll find Gina myself.”

She turned and strode through the old, double front doors, tripping on her way down the steps and stumbling into a group of men. This time, strong hands steadied her; one man’s grip the only thing keeping her upright. What was wrong with her today?

“I’m so sorry, sir.”

He held one of her arms. His other hand rested at her waist. “Are you hurt?”

That smooth voice. Cami looked up. The man’s eyes connected with hers. Mr Gorgeous Green Eyes. Every hormone in her body sizzled at his touch. His stare seemed to suck the air out of her lungs. She hadn’t had sex in three years, but this was ridiculous. Cami took a slow, deep breath. He didn’t fit into her plan. She needed information from him, not to jump his bones.

Cami broke away, trembling from the rush of hormones. “No, I’m fine. Thanks for catching me.”

She noticed he’d changed into period garb, his grey pinstriped suit covering broad shoulders. The jacket was open revealing a coordinating vest and tie. Very handsome indeed. So that’s where he’d gone earlier.

The two men flanking his sides looked her up and down, as if she were a tasty morsel to be devoured. Cami shifted away from them, uncomfortable to be their centre of attention.

“Excuse me, gentlemen, but I need a word with. him.” Cami pointed to Mr G.

A lock of black hair fell across his eyes. Cami reached up to brush it away, but stopped before she touched him. What has possessed her?

The shorter, balding man answered. “You’d best run along, little lady. We have business with him.”

“‘Little lady’?” Cami crossed her arms. That was twice today she’d been called that particular name and she didn’t like being dismissed. “I’m not going anywhere. Not until someone tells me what’s going on.”

The flippant man moved in front of her, blocking her from Mr G. “It’s only a game of cards, darlin’. No need for you to worry your pretty self.”

He winked at his partner and then reached a pudgy hand towards her. Before she realized his intent, he picked up a lock of her hair and rubbed it, his fingers grazing her neck. “I say we finish this game and see what we can show the lady.”

The taller one snorted. “She ain’t dressed like no lady.”

Cami gasped, for the first time afraid.

Mr G. yanked him back by the collar. “Remove your hand, now.”

He whined. “We don’t mean no harm. We just wanna finish our game, get what’s due.”

Mr G. released the man and shoved him away from her. “I intend to make good on my bet. It will be in the form of something other than coins.”

The coin. Cami realized she held Mr G.’s money. He’d only given it to her as part of the reality show. He obviously needed it back. She’d get paid later.

Cami held up the American eagle. “Will this be enough?”

Seth Warner reluctantly tore his gaze from the beautiful woman who’d come to his aid and glanced at the ruffians. He saw their lust turn to greed at the prospect of more money.

“Sure it will, darlin’.” Both men slapped each other on the back.

Seth gave the woman another assessing look, agreeing with them on one point: she was most oddly dressed. Blue trousers moulded to her very seductive curves and a white blouse, buttons scandalously open at the neck, gave him a glimpse of her lacy chemise beneath. Her long, reddish hair hung in waves past her shoulders, free from any clasp. He felt as if he’d been punched in the stomach. Who was this siren of a woman? Why did she want to help him?

Seth approached her, intent on finding out. The other men had gone inside. He took her arm, guided her to the parlour and said, “To what do I owe this favour?”

The lacy fringe of her lashes lifted, genuine surprise on her face. “It was yours. I’m returning it.”

They arrived at the table and he pulled out a chair for her.

“Oh, I. really can’t stay,” she said.

Seth pressed her lightly into the chair. As he slid her towards the table, he bent in and whispered, “We’ll discuss your act of kindness after the game.” Her unique scent of lavender lingered as he took the chair next to her.

Seth put his hands on the table. “Gentlemen, I believe I have a benefactress for good fortune. Shall we proceed?” There were a few grumbles, but the dealer flipped cards face down to each player. Good. He may be down, but he wasn’t out.

The dealer said, “The game is five-card draw.” He nodded towards the woman. “In honour of our guest, queens are wild.”

Seth looked at his dealt cards: the nine of clubs, four of diamonds, eight of hearts, jack of clubs, and the five of spades.

Blast. He’d need a miracle to win this hand. He had to stay in. It was his last chance to get the money.

He leaned over to the woman and said, “Throw in the coin.” That was a mistake. Her scent beckoned him. He moved closer. She held out the coin to him. “I don’t want to play.”

“You’ll bring me luck. Let me show you.” He gently wrapped his hand around hers and steered her to the centre. “Now let go.” The coin clinked as she dropped it into the pile of money.

Keeping his face unreadable, he said, “I’m in.” Yet he was far from unresponsive to her. His body’s primal reactions heated up with a vengeance.

Two of the other players also stayed in. Only the man on his right folded.

When it was his turn, Seth chose the four, the five and the eight and tossed them into the pile of other rejected cards.

He tried to ignore the woman next to him, but he was aware of her nearness, the heat of her skin. Unable to stop himself, he angled towards her again. “Draw three cards from the stacked deck.”

Her face was pale and a droplet of moisture beaded her upper lip. He struggled to keep from touching her as another spike of desire caught him.

She handed him the requested cards singly: the eight of clubs, the ten of clubs and. the queen of hearts.

A wild card.

The fellow across from him folded. Only one other player remained and only one hand that could better his.

He allowed himself a small amount of hope. “Call.”

The last man laid down his cards and snickered. “I got a full house.”

“Very admirable.” Seth spread his cards on the table and smiled. “But it doesn’t beat a straight flush.”

Seth shoved his winnings to the edge of the table and into his coat pocket. The other men stirred.

Seth stood and whispered in the woman’s ear, “Let’s get out of here.”

He pulled her outside, then walked quickly down Pacific Avenue away from the hotel.

“Where are we going?” She tugged back. “I want to stay close to the hotel.”

He tightened his grip on her upper arm and kept going. “I don’t want those men following us.”

“Let go of me. I can walk myself.”

He eased his fingers away, but didn’t let up the pace. When they were a safe distance from the hotel, he stopped and drew her aside, out of the main flow of pedestrian traffic. She looked beautiful with temper flaring in her hazel eyes, colouring her cheeks. “Thank you for your help. But why?”

She threw up her hands, clearly agitated, for what reason he couldn’t fathom. “Look, no one is more perplexed about all this than me. I really don’t know. Call me crazy. It just goes with the rest of my day.”

Shaking his head, he chuckled. “Has it been so bad?”

“You have no idea.”

“Then it shall be my mission to make the rest of your day better, Miss.?”

An unwilling smile tugged at her lips. She held out her hand. “Cami Desmond.”

Seth took her hand, bowed low and gently kissed her knuckles. He straightened and said, “Seth Warner, at your service.”

“Wow. A real gentleman.”

Seth tensed, uneasy at the number of curious stares cast their way. “As much as I’m intrigued by your clothing, you should change into more. appropriate attire. You’re drawing unwanted attention.”

She looked down at her clothes. “Well, yes, I see your point, but I don’t have anything else with me.”

“I won’t permit you back to the hotel. It’s too dangerous.” He looked up the street, focusing on a storefront. He took her arm again, this time with less force.

“Allow me to provide what you require.”

Seth led Cami into a woman’s clothing boutique. Even this “shop” appeared to be part of the set. It was small, quiet and totally Victorian. Richly crafted garments hung on hooks scattered throughout the room and several mannequins were dressed with complete outfits.

“Good afternoon, sir.” The woman who addressed Seth was plump, dressed to the nines in high fashion, from her lace-embellished pink shoes to the ornate hat decorated with ribbons and bird feathers perched on a mop of curls.

“What may I show your lady today?” The woman barely glanced at her, but Cami could hear sympathy oozing from her voice.

Seth turned to the proprietor and gave her money, probably as a tip. “I must see to an errand. Please outfit her with anything she needs.”

He bowed to Cami. “I shall return. I believe you are in good hands.” Cami watched Seth walk out the door, wondering if she’d see him again, or if another stagehand would come for her. Where was Gina?

“Shall I show you some day gowns?”

Cami turned her attention to the woman. “Yes, I suppose so. But maybe something less. elaborate than what you’re wearing.”

Cami spent the next hour trying on several outfits of varying fabrics, colours and styles. Standing before the large floor mirror, she couldn’t believe her transformation, even though it had taken some convincing to lace her into the tiny corset.

She’d chosen a simple walking dress in lightweight wool. The lichen-green, flared skirt draped to the floor. Her white silk blouse was high at the neck, buttoned at the side and fronted with lace. The matching fitted jacket had puffy sleeves that tapered to her wrists, a wide collar, and was accented with gold trim and darker green velvet, the colour reminding her of Seth’s eyes.

The shop owner had swept Cami’s hair high on her head, revealing her gold hoop earrings. But Cami had drawn the line at wearing a huge bonnet. Instead she chose a simple, tailored straw hat with one saucy feather tucked on the side. Cami twirled, the skirt flowing around her legs. She couldn’t remember the last time she’d worn a dress. She felt feminine and sexy, in a totally new way.

“I approve of your choice. You’re stunning.”

Cami turned. Seth leaned casually against the wall near the door. He pushed away and came towards her.

“Good, because I don’t think I’ll ever get out of this corset.”

A wicked gleam darkened his eyes. He whispered, “I could help.”

Cami felt her cheeks flush. “Confidence killed the cat, not curiosity.” She turned away and regarded Seth in the mirror. He’d also changed. His clothes were more casual, but he looked dashing in solid, light-brown trousers with a matching waistcoat, a darker brown vest and a crisp white shirt. Seth also wore a straw hat, his dark hair curling at the collar.

“Would you stroll with me on the boardwalk?”

“This dress-up time has been fun, but shouldn’t I get back to the hotel? They’ll be looking for me.”

He stood before her and touched her hair, just a light stroke. “Who will be looking for you?”

“My friend Gina.”

“Then I shall deliver you safely to her. Now that you’re less conspicuous, we’ll take the scenic way, along the boardwalk. I promised you an enjoyable afternoon. If possible, I intend to keep it.”

“Are you always this persistent?”

“When I want something.”

The corner of his sensual mouth lifted in a lazy half-smile, revealing a sexy dimple in his right cheek.

“What about my clothes?”

He held up a brown paper package tied by a string. “Any more objections?”

Cami smiled. She wanted Gina to see her walk into the hotel dressed in high Victorian fashion and with Seth. She could have fun.

Seth offered her his arm. Cami wrapped her arm through his.

“I’ll give you an hour.”

Cami walked with Seth down Pacific Avenue, relieved that the other actors were similarly dressed in period costumes. They turned right on to Kentucky Avenue which brought them to a wide wooden footpath. The famous Atlantic City Boardwalk. Yet it wasn’t. At least not the boardwalk she knew.

Nothing looked familiar. They walked past several hotels, some under construction, their signage identifying them as The Ambassador and Chalfonte House. Where were the larger casinos on the Boardwalk — Bally’s, the Taj Mahal and the Showboat? She understood the streets close to the hotel were made to look Victorian as part of the reality-show set, but they were well away from there.

A flicker of apprehension twisted her stomach. Something wasn’t right.

Cami studied the planks of the walkway. “These boards look new. I’d think they would be made to look old, like everything else.”

Seth looked at her speculatively. “Why would you think everything here is old? This city is the height of fashion and innovation.”

“Let’s just say it’s not what I expected.”

“The Boardwalk is new. A hurricane a few years back destroyed the old one. The city only recently finished its rebuilding.”

Hurricane? She hadn’t heard of a hurricane destroying Atlantic City. That would have made the national news, like New Orleans. She wiped her damp palms on her dress.

Seth led Cami across the wooden footpath to walk along the ocean side of the boardwalk. She said, “You must live here. You seem to know the city well.”

“No, I have small farm near New York City. I’ve made several excursions to the Boardwalk recently. Where do you call home?”

“Iowa, a little town near Des Moines.”

“You are very far from home. Little wonder that at the hotel you looked lost.”

Cami watched the waves welling up from the deep blue ocean, lapping at the ankles of sunbathers wading in the surf. The women and girls wore dresses, stockings and shoes, even in the water. The men had rolled up the legs of their trousers or wore knee-length knickers and suspenders. They couldn’t be part of any reality show. It was too far from the hotel and the people playing in the water were not acting.

A thought hit her. What if she wasn’t in her world any more, but in theirs?

Cami stumbled and then doubled over, a whalebone from the corset jabbing her in the ribs. Seth’s grip on her arm tightened.

“Are you ill?”

“Yes. No. I’m not sure. Let me catch my breath.”

“On your left.” The voice called out close behind.

Seth’s gut clenched. He grabbed Cami and whirled her away in time to avoid being run over by a cart on wheels racing down the boardwalk at breakneck speed.

“Hey, slow down,” she yelled at their backs. “Give me your cell phone. I’m calling the police. They’re going to kill someone.”

Seth nestled her closer to him, enjoying her pliant body. He could feel her heart racing. “Do you always attract so much trouble?”

“Apparently.”

“I don’t know what you meant by cellophone, but the police are not necessary.” He tipped her chin to meet his gaze. “I’ll keep you safe.”

“Safe maybe, but what about sane?”

She clutched his arm, her expression deadly serious. “Seth, tell me about this year. Don’t ask why. I need to know.” Her voice sounded strained. Did she regret walking with him?

“There’s not much to tell, except it’s the year of the great World’s Fair in Chicago. It begins in a few days.”

“Oh God. That makes it really 1893.” She buried her face in his shoulder and trembled. “Gina won’t be waiting for me. It can’t be. I can’t be here.”

Seth held her tighter. “Yes, you can. Forget those men. No one will hurt you. You’re with me now.”

“You don’t understand. The future’s been decided. I shouldn’t be with you.”

He didn’t understand her distress, but wanted his future to include her. He ached to kiss her. But a small insistent voice at the back of his mind told him this was not the right time.

She shifted restlessly, her movements a whisper of silk against wool as she pulled away. “This has been a nice diversion, but I must get back to the hotel.”

He brought his hands to his chest and covered his heart. “Oh, Cami, you wound me greatly. I’ve only rated a ‘nice’ when my goal has been ‘spectacular’.”

She grinned, his teasing breaking the visible tension on her face. “Seth, it’s not you. You’ve been nothing but kind.”

“Is someone other than Gina waiting for you? Perhaps a husband or fiancé?”

“No. There’s no one waiting for me now.”

“Then I can’t possibly let you go without gaining a higher rating. Permit me one last chance to win your heart.”

At the next street corner, Seth drew Cami into a small candy shop. “Wait here. I have a surprise.”

Where would she go? It wasn’t as if she could board a bus or train and ask to be taken to the twenty-first century.

A few moments later, Seth returned holding a small bag. “No one can resist famous Atlantic City saltwater taffy.”

He offered her a piece. Cami took one and began walking again. She’d spent way too much time with him. She was worried.

Silence, as thick as mud, oozed between them as they chewed the taffy.

Cami kept her voice even, distant. She didn’t want to become too involved with his life. “Why was that poker game so important to you?”

Seth sighed and furrowed his brows. “I wanted to do something I believed in. That game was my last chance to help my nephew, but it no longer matters. I’m done.” The wistful sound in his voice caught her off guard.

“Why doesn’t it matter? If you believe in something, you should fight for it. Don’t give up.”

“It’s too late. Tomorrow is the last day I have to get the bank loan I need to open a new school in New York, a special school to help my nephew. Although I won the card game, it wasn’t enough. It’s over.”

Cami didn’t think she’d heard him right. “Who are you?”

“Seth Nathanial Warner.”

“Warner. Warner, oh my God. You’re the Seth Warner. I should have put it together before now. You’ve got it all wrong. You’re the beginning of the Warners who’ve built several schools for needy children in this area, not New York.”

“Whoa, slow down. I don’t know who or what you’re talking about, but it’s not me. I only desire to open one school to help my nephew and maybe a few others.”

“I know. It’s how they all started.”

“How what started?”

Cami stopped speaking. If she revealed what he ultimately accomplished in his life, would she have a negative influence on the present? She had to take that risk. It must be the reason she was here: to inspire Seth and prevent him from quitting.

She took his arm. “Come with me. I have something I want to show you.”

Cami led Seth back across the boardwalk and down several quiet side streets. She wasn’t sure she could find it again, but knew it was near the lighthouse. They passed many summer cottages, elaborate two-and three-storey homes, displaying beautifully coiffed lawns and wide porches.

Cami continued walking, scanning each house. Halfway down Artic, she stopped. “There it is.”

“There what is?”

“Your new school.”

Seth groaned. The dilapidated, three-storey house needed fresh paint, the roof was riddled with Swiss-cheese holes and the wide, wraparound porch sagged in several places.

“No. It’s too small.” He shook his head. “It isn’t at all what I had in mind.”

Cami grabbed Seth’s hand and pointed to the house. “Yes. This is — could be yours. Imagine the possibilities. You can’t give up on your dream now. Not when you’re this close to success.”

Seth pulled her to face him. “What makes you passionate?”

Cami was surprised at his question. “My work. I love to teach, same as you.”

“No.” He tapped her heart. “In here. All you’ve spoken of is what you must do for others. What do you dream for yourself?”

Cami was taken aback. There wasn’t anything she did for fun, for herself.

“I don’t know. I don’t let myself dream. in there.”

“I’d like to change that.” He took her face in his hands and brought his mouth down to hers. Their lips touched, lightly at first, then more demanding as they both tumbled into the moment, their tongues entwining. He tasted like everything she’d always wanted; sweet and dangerous. Hot desire clawed at her.

Cami clamped down her emotions and pulled away. “I. can’t do this. Not now, not ever.”

“I can’t believe you don’t feel me in your heart.” His hand skimmed the front of her jacket, sending tremors through her.

Cami ran a finger along his jaw, enjoying the slight rough texture. “I believe in you and your school. If you go to the bank tomorrow, you’ll find this house is not only for sale, but will sell at a very reasonable price.”

As she drew back, he captured her hand and covered his heart. A strong, rapid beat thumped against her palm. “Come with me.”

Cami had no idea what the future held for her, but knew his future didn’t include her. “I can’t.”

The last rays of sunset had faded to a deepening blue as they stopped in front of the Harbor House.

“Seth, I’ve had a ‘spectacular’ day. You’ll never know how great it’s been.”

He stroked her cheek. “You deserve ‘spectacular’ every day.”

Cami’s mind was in turmoil, her heart in an uproar. She hadn’t realized how much she missed being kissed and touched and held in a man’s strong arms. “This isn’t my reality.”

“I can make it so. It doesn’t have to end here. now.”

Cami shivered. More suggestion, more heat. No. She wasn’t a one-night-stand girl. “Yes, it does. I have to go.”

Seth nodded and opened the front door for her. “I’ll escort you to your room.”

“I don’t have a room here.”

“Where are you staying, then? I’ll walk you home.”

Cami paused, her situation striking her hard. “I. I don’t know. I don’t have any room and I have no money.”

“Then you shall be my guest.”

Cami hesitated, the implication thick between them.

Seth said, “I’ll purchase you a separate room. It’s the least I can do to repay you for showing me the house.”

A very practical and convincing argument. It was either accept his offer or sleep on the beach.

“OK, but promise me you’ll build your school.”

“I promise.”

While Seth made arrangements for her room, Cami went into the parlour to look for the roulette wheel, the white poker chip, or even the guy who looked like Seth from the present. Anything to lead her back home.

There was nothing she recognized. She couldn’t get home. Tears formed in her eyes. Gina must be sick with worry.

Seth was beside her. He tenderly wiped at a tear slipping down her cheek. “Don’t fret, my sweet. You’re not alone.”

He took her hand and placed a silver coin in her palm, the same coin she’d given to him earlier. “This should be enough to provide you with safe transportation home, whenever you wish. You may need these as well.”

Cami accepted the coin and her package of clothes from the dress shop. She whispered, “I wish it were that easy.”

Maybe she should tell him the truth. No, it would only complicate matters for him and Cami knew he had his own destiny to fulfil. She couldn’t sidetrack him with her problems. She truly was alone in this.

Seth led her upstairs and stopped before a closed door on the third floor. He unlocked it and held out the key for her. “It’s yours for however long you need it.”

She took the key, their hands brushing. A crackle of energy passed between them, hot and raw. Cami jerked away.

As she walked into the room, he said, “I’ve also made arrangements for a bath. Someone shall be up promptly with hot water and towels.”

Cami turned for a last look at Seth. Their gazes locked. She wanted him with a ferocity that terrified her. She opened her mouth. “Thank you.”

“My room is next door, adjoined to yours.”

His eyes smouldered with unspoken desire. He said, “If you need anything, all you have to do is come through the door and ask.”

The invitation was very clear. All she had to do was ask. For anything. He’d be there. Cami leaned against the closed door and sighed. She didn’t know how to ask for anything for herself.

Resigned to being alone, Cami explored the room. A large canopied, four-poster bed stood in the centre, as if mocking her for her fear. Cami tossed the gift bag, package of clothes, key and coin on the bed and turned away. Yet, she couldn’t help having thoughts of tumbling on that romantic bed with Seth.

A beautiful, hand-painted screen stood in one of the corners of the room. Cami peeked behind the screen and gasped at the porcelain claw-footed bathtub. She stepped back and moved the screen aside. It was beautifully white and clean. Heaven on earth. She’d get her sensual soak after all.

A secretary desk and straight chair sat near a fireplace. On the desk was a small silver tray piled with cheeses and, beside the tray, a pitcher of water.

She selected one of the matching Victorian water glasses. She ran her finger over the beautiful ovals cut along the side before pouring the glass full. She nibbled on the cheese and took several sips of water.

Now what?

With Seth gone, she felt a surprising void. Trying to fill the emptiness, Cami unwrapped her old clothes from the paper covering. She’d make sure to wear them tomorrow. She grabbed the coin, intending to put it in the pocket of her jeans for safekeeping, but had an idea.

She held the coin tightly, squeezed her eyes shut and concentrated. She even prayed to return home. After several minutes, Cami opened her eyes, but she was still in the same hotel. Deflated, she stuffed the coin in her jeans and tossed them over the chair.

A knock sounded at the door. Cami’s pulse sparked. Seth. Her heart sank when the hallway door opened and several hotel workers brought in buckets of steaming water. They poured the water into the tub, filling it about two-thirds full, laid several towels on the bed and left the room.

The looming emptiness nearly suffocated her. How could she miss Seth when they’d only just met? Cami flounced on the bed. Another stay from the corset poked her. She couldn’t breathe. Her temper flaring to life, she unbuttoned the jacket and shook out of it. The remainder of the Victorian garments flew off, until she stood in only the fine cotton chemise and drawers.

She threw up her hands. Damn it, why was she here? In this time? In this room, alone? She thought once she’d convinced Seth to build his school, she’d poof back to her own time. There must be more to it.

She heard the echo of Seth’s question. What did she want? Work? No. She wanted passion. And connection. The harder she tried to ignore the truth, the more it persisted. She wanted love.

Oh God. She’d been so wrong. No wonder Seth thought she was lost. She’d given up on herself. years ago. In her quest for security, she’d lost her emotional identity and suppressed her needs. She’d let her baggage from the past dictate her future.

Her eyes strayed to the connecting door. Take a chance. Her vow not to become involved shattered. She didn’t want to be alone any more. He was here, ripe for her taking, and she needed him.

Cari dumped the contents of her gift bag on to the bed.

She couldn’t just show up in his room. She lit the candle with matches she found near the fireplace and grabbed the bar of soap.

Cami approached the door and listened, not hearing any sounds. She wondered if he was asleep, but decided to push ahead before she lost her nerve.

She knocked lightly. “Seth, are you awake?”

There was no answer. She tried the knob and found it unlocked. The door opened with just the slightest creak. Soft light from the candle spilled through the dark opening.

“Seth?”

A movement on the other side caught her eyes. Then she saw him, outlined by the light at the window. He turned towards her.

“Cami. What’s wrong?”

“Nothing. I. I just wanted to talk to you.” It sounded lame even to her ears. She held up the soap, as if it explained everything. “I have some. ”

He was in front of her before she realized he’d moved. His skin smelled clean, yet musky and very, very male. He was bare-chested and had changed into clean trousers. Light from the candle turned his skin a golden brown and flickered off his toned muscles.

Cami glanced beyond him and saw a wet floor surrounding the tub.

“Oh, you’ve already washed. I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have bothered you.”

Cami turned away, but his warm hand on her arm stilled her.

“I said all you had to do was ask. Walking through that door is asking.”

What could she say? She was asking for more than words.

“I. ah. yes.”

Seth lifted Cami in his arms and carried her into her room, elated she’d come to him. He’d been standing at the window watching the moonbeams flickering on the water, thinking of her.

Seth looked across the room and discovered her tub full of clean water. “You’ve not bathed.”

“No.”

He placed her on the bed and tested the water. It was still warm. “We shall remedy that.”

He took the soap from her hands and placed the candle on the bedside table. He wanted this night to be perfect. He didn’t think there’d be another.

Coming to stand before her, he drew her to her feet. He pulled the pins from her hair and spiked his fingers though the silky tangle of waves. “I’ve been longing to do this since the dress shop.”

“Seth?”

He nipped lightly at her earlobe and she shuddered. “Umm?” He placed feather-light kisses on her neck and then drew her chemise over her head.

“I am a little. lost.”

Seth stroked the curve of her back, down to the first hint of her buttocks. “I know, my sweet. I’ll help you find your way.”

“No, I mean really lost. Like as in from another time, another place.”

He planted a searing kiss on her mouth, gently sucking her lower lip, and then pulled the string on her pantaloons. They fell to the floor.

“I know so little of you, my mysterious traveller. Yet I know you’ve changed my life.”

She caressed his face, tracing his cheek with her velvet-soft fingertips. “As you’ve changed mine.”

Seth lifted Cami in his arms and carried her to the tub. “I’ve only just begun.”

He set her gently in the water. She closed her eyes.

He knelt beside the tub, dipped the soap into the water and rubbed, producing a thick lather. His brain faltered when her scent enveloped him. Desire twisted in his groin, making him hard.

Seth gathered her thick, silky hair and drew it over one shoulder. He placed a last wet kiss along her neck. Scooping warm water over her bare shoulders, he gently rubbed the bar in languid, swirling circles on her back.

At his first slow caresses Cami relaxed, bending forwards, bracing her forehead on her knees. At some point the hard bar disappeared, and Cami felt his soapy palms and fingers run up the muscles on either side of her spine, creating the most delicious sensations of her life. Oh God, this was her fantasy. She’d stopped dreaming of a happy-ever-after.

She gave another sigh, this one coming from deep within her throat.

“Feel good?” His voice was low and thick.

“Oh God, yes.”

“Your skin is so soft.”

His slippery thumbs dipped lower in the water, massaging the small of her back. Chills of pleasure caused gooseflesh to appear.

“I want to touch you here.”

From behind, Seth’s warm hands cupped her breasts and her breath caught in her throat. Cami felt a gush of heat.

“And here.”

His hands smoothed down her abdomen. She quivered with pleasure from his strokes.

With a low, harsh groan, Seth raised her from the tub and carried her to the canopied bed.

Cami awoke in her bed alone, the sun higher than usual. She stretched, feeling her muscles flex, remembering the workout they’d received the night before. Sounds from the room next door alerted her to Seth’s whereabouts. She actually heard whistling.

Cami’s stomach growled. She hadn’t eaten much yesterday, substituting lovemaking for dinner. What she wouldn’t give to have the luxury of breakfast via room service. Cami swung her legs over the edge of the bed and stood, wrapping the sheet around her naked body while she searched for her clothes.

Cami found her blouse draped neatly over the chair and smiled when she saw the silken cord hanging above the desk labelled SERVICE BELL. Dressing quickly in her jeans and shirt, she pulled the cord, excited at the prospect of surprising Seth with breakfast in her room.

Cami reached in the pocket of her jeans for the coin, but instead drew out the white gaming chip.

Her vision wavered. Oh no, not now! What about Seth? Everything in the room spun and then went dark.

Flashing lights slowly came into focus. Cami once again stood in Caesars casino in front of the modern roulette table. A pang of disappointment shot through her elation. She was home.

The man in the white shirt and black vest stood inches from her, his gaze making her body tingle. He had Seth’s gorgeous eyes, but they now seemed a lighter green. Cami also noticed his hair was shorter and his face leaner, less angular than Seth’s.

“Your wildest dreams will come true.” He smiled, no dimples forming. “It’s written on the chip, so it must be true.”

Cami scanned the casino. All seemed normal. No time appeared to have passed in this place. Cami held up the white chip. “You knew this chip wasn’t mine. Why me?”

He shifted on his feet. “I saw you standing there, beautiful, yet lost. I wanted to meet you. I guess you could say the men in my family have a thing for redheads.”

There was vulnerability in his tone that touched a place inside her.

He held out his hand. “I’m Shaun Warner.”

Warner? Hope swelled her heart. Because of Seth, for the first time in a long time, she felt there were possibilities to be explored.

Cami took his hand in hers. “Cami Desmond.”

When their hands touched, she had a brief flash of déjà vu, but it passed. This time was for her.

“My wildest dreams have already come true.”