Torn between duty and desire, two strangers must risk all for love
Nuclear physicist Dr. Claire Fleming has one rule: never get close to anyone. But when her colleague is murdered and she’s targeted next, she must place all her trust in FBI agent Thomas Kincannon. Soon Claire forgets her tenet as she fantasizes about Thomas’s touch.
Thomas is wildly attracted to Claire. But his life and his job are too complicated for any romantic entanglements. Despite this, they share a mind-blowing kiss, and there’s no turning back. When Thomas’s niece is abducted, the stakes become dangerously higher as Claire insists he trade her for the child. Somehow, Thomas must find a way to rescue his family and protect the woman who let her protective walls down just for him.
“You know I care about you.”
She held him a moment longer, then rose up on her tiptoes to press a soft kiss to his mouth.
The contact arced through him, setting all his nerve endings on fire. She met his eyes for a beat, then kissed him again.
He groaned and opened his mouth, giving her the access she sought. He wanted nothing more than to lose himself in her, let her take away the stress and worry and anxiety about everything.
It felt so good to be holding her, touching her, and yet…. He pulled back, framing Claire’s face with his hands. “We should slow down,” he said, in a voice too unsteady to be trusted.
“Let me do this for you,” she whispered, kissing his chin. “Let me help you tonight.”
“Are you sure? If we go much further, I won’t want to stop.”
“Who’s asking you to?”
I probably shouldn’t admit this, but I’ve had a crush on Thomas ever since he appeared in my first book, Deadly Contact. And what’s not to like? He’s charming, funny, handsome, smart, and he has a fierce protective streak. In short, he’s the perfect romance hero.
Thomas was originally supposed to play a small role in Deadly Contact, but he very stubbornly tried to steal all his scenes. That’s when I knew he had his own story to tell, and once I stopped fighting him and started listening to him, I realized he was more than just a pretty face.
I really enjoyed working on this book. It was a roller-coaster ride of ups and downs, and I hope I’ve done his story justice. Thomas and Claire both hold a special place in my heart, and I hope you enjoy getting to know them as much as I did!
Lara
Fatal Fallout
Lara Lacombe
LARA LACOMBE
I earned my Ph.D. in microbiology and immunology and worked in several labs across the country before moving into the classroom. My day job as a college science professor gives me time to pursue my other love—writing fast-paced romantic suspense, with smart, nerdy heroines and dangerously attractive heroes. I love to hear from readers! Find me on the web, or contact me at [email protected].
MILLS & BOON
Before you start reading, why not sign up?
Thank you for downloading this Mills & Boon book. If you want to hear about exclusive discounts, special offers and competitions, sign up to our email newsletter today!
Or simply visit
Mills & Boon emails are completely free to receive and you can unsubscribe at any time via the link in any email we send you.
For the redheads in my life: Will, Josh and Toby Love you guys!
Many thanks to Rachel Burkot, Patience Bloom and the team at Harlequin.
Thanks also to Jessica Alvarez. Y’all are the best!
Contents
Chapter Five
Chapter Six
Chapter Seven
Chapter Eight
Chapter Nine
Chapter Ten
Chapter Eleven
Chapter Twelve
Chapter Thirteen
Chapter Fourteen
Chapter Fifteen
Extract
“Dr. Fleming, can you comment on the recent alarm at the Central Virginia nuclear reactor after Tuesday’s earthquake?”
“Dr. Fleming, is nuclear power safe?”
“Is the public in any danger?”
Claire Fleming pasted on a smile as she turned to face the handful of reporters standing on the sidewalk outside the Nuclear Safety Group’s building. She’d known these questions would be coming, but had hoped to at least get a cup of coffee first. Mornings were tough enough without facing a barrage of questions, and she didn’t feel human without that first cup of java.
“I want to assure people that there was no accident at the Central Virginia nuclear plant. The