Jurassic Heart Read online

  There were times when Henry forgot our deal and treated me like a girlfriend, even getting jealous, trying to break his ‘no kissing on the lips’ rule he stole from Pretty Woman.

  I was firm on that.

  We both knew the kissing rule kept it from getting emotional.

  I enjoyed going out to the parties, events and conversations, but I never let myself enjoy sex with Henry, to me that wasn’t an option. It was part of my job.

  Most times, because of my mindset, it was tedious. I made the mistake of filling my head with thoughts of Tony. The young student intern who was there at my father’s last dig. Tony was handsome, and his body hard. While everyone slept in a tent a few yards away, Tony and I would make love all night.

  Wrapped in his arms, I’d lock my fingers in his dark curls as he took me to plateaus of unforgettable ecstasy.

  He was my first love, my first sexual experience. At eighteen, I thought I was in love. Even drifting back to those thoughts brought arousal. Too bad, it happened when I was with Henry. He took it as a sign he was my great lover.

  Personally, I wouldn’t know, I didn’t pay attention. I suppose if Henry was ‘the man’ no amount of day dreaming would be able take me away from his talents.

  The day the call came was not a very good one. I wanted to go see my mother, the nurse told me her hand was moving, but I had a particularly bad class of third graders on the fantasy dig and to make matters worse, Henry called just as I got in my car.

  “I’ve not seen you all week.”

  “I’m sorry, you know this is a busy week for schools.”

  “I need to see you. Please come over now.”

  “I want to visit my mother.”

  “This won’t take long. I’m particularly worked up.”

  That’s what he thought. Meanwhile, Henry was never fast, not at his age.

  “I need to get cleaned up and showered.”

  “You can shower here.”

  He had an answer for every excuse. And our once a week had been a couple weeks. I agreed. My mood was increasingly going sour, when Larry called.

  I pulled over to take the call. Considering it was Larry and I just left work, I figured something was wrong.

  “I think I have a solution for you,” Larry said right after I answered,

  “Solution?”

  “You won’t have to work two jobs. This will at least buy you time to pay for your mother’s care, or send her to that facility in France.”

  “What are you talking about?” I asked.

  “I just got a message. There is a secure expedition that will start ASAP. It’s sponsored by Hedlin Rush and it is one at the Winters’ Institute.”

  If I had been actually driving, I would have slammed the brakes. If Hedlin Rush was funding, that alone meant it was big.

  “They’re looking for a small team. The expedition is slated for three months. I will give you the time off if you get selected. They need an individual exceptionally experienced in paleontology and excavation sites. They’re also looking for laborers.”

  “I’m not a paleontologist. They’ll never select me.”

  “They didn’t say you needed to be. Just experienced, and you have that. Maybe with your name … if Winters and Rush are doing this it’s big. It’s something top secret. It pays a quarter of a million. I’ll call and refer you. Interested?”

  “Without a doubt, yes,” I said enthusiastically. “Thank you.”

  I ended my call. It made the trip to Henry’s bearable. Even though it was a long shot, if I was selected, not only would I get my mother her care, my time with Henry would come to an end … and that made me happy.

  DASH

 

  The referrals were plentiful. The parking lot was usually empty, but two days after referrals, it was jammed packed. That was only half of the people who responded. The call went out. Immediately we weeded out anyone without a direct referral from a reputable source.

  The project was already underway. We expedited the building of a warehouse on site. I already had people on that. A slew of people were already there, building and setting up. The team I needed was for the actual expedition. It needed to be a small specialized team.

  Aside from myself, Logan my assistant and Hedlin, who offered nothing but money, I needed one paleontology expert, two diggers or excavation laborers, one medical person and a survival specialist.

  People came out of the woodwork. The money was a lot, but it was a short term project. There were too many prospects for me to interview for, so I would take the top contenders. I hired staff to do the initial screening at my facility.

  I likened it to auditioning for one of those reality singing shows.

  A process of elimination.

  Of course, I liked to micro manage, so I was constantly checking in.

  “Make sure, they can drop everything and be here in two days to start orientation,” I instructed. “If they can’t, they’re out.”

  I gave a few more tidbits, probably repeated myself, and then usually skimmed the list and moved on.

  It was on my fourth stop through the interview stations, that I froze when I picked up the name on the list.

  “No, this can’t be.”

  “What is it? Do you see something?” the interviewer asked.

  “I see a sign. Maybe. I couldn’t be so lucky. Well, I could be, but what are the chances, right?”

  “Dr. Winters, what are you talking about?” he asked.

  I shook my head and pointed to the list. “Do me a favor, send this applicant, number forty-three, to my office immediately. Please.”

  “Yes, sir.”

  Excitedly I left, looking around at the different applicants, wondering which one was forty-three. I was nervous, but I tried to keep it in check. In case I was wrong, I didn’t want to feel disappointed.

  After straightening my shirt and tie, I fixed my hair and took a seat.

  There was a knock at my door and I called out, “Come in.”

  Then she entered my office.

  There was something about her, something more than just who she was or who I thought she was. I walked around my desk and extended my hand. “Dash Winters.”

  She embraced my hand with a firm shake. “Paige Bronavanavanavich.”

  I smiled and realized my hand was sweaty. “I am so sorry.” I pulled back my hand. “Have a seat, please.” I showed her a chair.

  “When your interviewer said to come up, I was wondering if something was wrong.”

  “No. I hope not.” I sat down behind my desk. For a moment, I got lost staring at her. There was something about her. She was a plain pretty, little make up. I wondered if that was her normal look or if she dulled down on my behalf. “Paige, I saw your name. I may be wrong, and it could be a complete coincidence, but are you related to Sterling Bronavanavanavich?”

  “He was my father.”

  I gasped and sat back. “My God. The man was brilliant.”

  “Thank you.”

  “You’re the daughter who accompanied him on the digs. The one he boasted was masterfully following his footsteps.”

  She nodded.

  “You found the famous fifth vertebrae bone.”

  “Guilty.”

  “You found it season two, episode four. So it wasn’t a staged thing?”

  “No.” She shook her head. “I found it right off camera. It was a real find.”

  “Wow, I loved that show. Loved that they showed everything. I was devastated when they cancelled it.”

  “Yes, me too. My father died.”

  I cringed. “Yes, I am so sorry about that. So what great wonders of the world are you chasing?”

  “I’m not.” She shook her head. “I work at the museum. My mother was crippled in that earthquake and I stay put to oversee her care.”

  “But you want to do this?” I asked.

  “The money will pay for her care.”

  I wanted to shout, ‘Amazing’, not only was she brilli
ant, but she put aside her own needs for her mother. Now she would be able to get the best of both worlds. Getting in the dirt and takin care of her mother’s medical needs.

  “That’s wonderful. I’ll see about getting you more money. You’re hired. You’re in.”

  “What?” She seemed shocked. ‘Just like that? You don’t want to know …”

  “Nope. You are the daughter of Bronavanavanavich. And he …” I leaned forward. “is the basis for this whole trip, this whole expedition.”

  “How?”

  “I have been infatuated with your father’s work since I was a child. Then when he discovered a new species, I was ecstatic. He never got to finish. It’s been my dream to do so. I’m not a paleontologist, so I got a team. With you on the team, it will make it even better. That is, if you do not have a problem going back to Argentina.”

  “We’re going to the original site?” Paige asked.

  “We are.” I nodded. “We are going to go there, find and seek, and let the world finally see the … Bronavanasaurus. Are you in?”

  With perfect teeth she gleamed the brightest, whitest smile, stood up and reached for my hand. “Dr. Winters …”

  “Call me Dash.”

  “Dash.” She grabbed my hand. “I couldn’t be more in. Thank you.”

  The deal was verbally sealed. With the connection of our hands, not only were we creating an agreement, it was the start of what I believed to be the ultimate dream team. How could the project fail?

  It wouldn’t.

  CHAPTER THREE

  PAIGE

 

  If a cloud nine existed, I wasn’t just floating on it, I was sky surfing. I felt exhilarated. Dash Winters did more for my self-esteem in our six minute meeting than anyone had done for me in my entire adult life.

  Without knowing much, he believed in me. I saw the look in his eyes. Eyes that sparkled when he spoke. Blue eyes that reminded me of the Blue Mahi drink I had at Larry’s Barbecue two weeks ago.

  I had heard of Dash Winters, never did I imagine someone so brilliant could be so strikingly … dashing. His hands were strong and large, they gripped mine with a firm confidence. His tailored dress shirt fit enough that little was left to my imagination about his well-defined body. Not to mention he smelled amazing. Probably some super expensive alluring fragrance that mixed well with the slight hint of bourbon,

  Dash Winters.

  There was an intense attraction right away, at least on my part.

  How could there not? He was well spoken, educated, intelligent and hot.

  I had to stop thinking about the man and remember he was my boss now.

  He informed me that I was to return for orientation, to have my bags packed, and we’d be leaving for Argentina by the week’s end.

  I was so excited, I pulled into the McDonald’s parking lot that was located a mile outside of Winters’ Institute, stepped from the car, called Larry and did a little dance while proclaiming, “I got the job. I got the job.”

  Larry seemed a little surprised. “That was fast.”

  “Get this, Larry, the whole entire project was created because of my father.”

  “So it only figured he’d bring you along.”

  “Exactly.”

  “Did he say what it was?”

  “Not exactly. I’ll find out more. But we are going to finish the site.”

  “You’re resurrecting the Bronavanasaurus?”

  “We are.”

  “Oh, Paige, I’m thrilled for you,” Larry said, “Now don’t go second guessing yourself.”

  “What do you mean?” I asked.

  “I mean, I know you. I can see you wondering if you’re good enough. No one, even the most educated, has your knowledge.”

  “I … uh, wasn’t even thinking that. Thanks.”

  Larry laughed. “Come over this evening and have a drink with me and Marge. We’ll celebrate. I’ll make burgers on the grill.”

  “Sounds awesome. I have to see my mom, get some things for the trip. Figure out what to wear for Argentina.”

  “Doesn’t matter, it’s hot there.”

  I laughed. It was a nervous excited laugh. “I’ll be by around eight.”

  After finishing my call, I got back in my car, went through the drive thru for a bag of fries, then made my way to see my mother.

  Her hair was just washed and set. They always did a wonderful job with her. I informed the staff that I would be away for a while, and I asked the administrator to look further into that study in France. They all assured me she would be well watched after.

  Telling my mother was heartbreaking. I know it bothered her to hear about me leaving. She was unable to show facial expressions, but I imagined there was sadness there. She was proud, though. Even though her monotone electronic voice had no affliction, I swore I heard emotions when she said, “I am so proud of you Paige.”

  There was one more stop for me to make before I went home to pack and then to Larry’s for a barbecue.

  I had to go see Henry.

  I was a bit nervous about telling him I wouldn’t be able to work for him any longer, I didn’t know how he would take it. I just knew I would try to suppress my delight in ending the days when I sold my body for the high end price tag of one month of my mother’s care.

  I should have called him first, but I didn’t. Being familiar with Henry’s schedule, I knew he was home. Jones the houseman let me in and I waited in the foyer for Henry.

  “Paige?” Henry called my name with a question and surprise when he emerged from the far end of the hall.

  “Hi, Henry.”

  “This is a surprise. And honestly, not a good time.”

  “I’m sorry. I really am. I should have called first.”

  “That’s quite alright, I only have a moment though.”

  I nodded. “I understand.” I took a deep breath of courage. “Remember how I told you I had that interview today?”

  “Yes.”

  “I was chosen.”

  “Really?” he asked. “I don’t know what to say.”

  “Congratulations, perhaps.”

  “That goes without saying. I certainly will miss your company. And if the position is still open when you return …”

  “Not that I didn’t like the job,” I said. “I’m just hoping to be in France after this is done.”

  “The study?”

  “Yes.”

  “I will help in any way I can.”

  “That is so sweet of you,” I said. “Thank you.”

  “Please stop by before you leave for this project. Do you know what this is?”

  I shook my head. “Not yet. I will.”

  “Well, then. Good luck. Congratulations again. I am happy for you.” He leaned forward and kissed me on the cheek. “I’m just surprised.”

  There it was. The doubt Larry talked about. Only it wasn’t me. It was other people. Henry for one. Although Henry never really asked anything about my life. We just didn’t talk about that. He never asked. Maybe he assumed I didn’t have one or he didn’t care. I only had mentioned the interview because I knew, if selected, I would have to leave.

  “Are you suggesting I’m not qualified?” I asked. “Because that hurts, Henry, that …”

  “No. No. No.” He waved his hand. “It’s fast. A decision was made awfully fast. I mean the interview was just today.”

  “True. And I was surprised myself. But it seemed my father sealed the deal. The second they knew my father was the paleontologist who …”

  “Sterling Bronavanavanavich.”

  “Yes.”

  Surprised again, he asked. “Sterling Bronavanavanavich was your father?”

  “He was. You didn’t know? I assumed …”

  “I knew your last name was Bronavanavanavich, but I didn’t put two and two together. Oh my, you’re the protégé daughter. You discovered the fifth vertebra.”

  “I did.”

  Again, he leaned a little toward me and whisper
ed with a smile. “And you’ve been working for me. I feel honored and …”

  “Uncle?” a male voice called out.

  I lifted my head and Henry backed up.

  “Uncle, I can come later if you need me to,” he said. I heard the footsteps coming our way.

  “No. Nonsense,” said Henry. “Come and meet my assistant. She is leaving me for a big project.”

  “How about that,” He said and smiled when he emerged.

  My heart skipped a beat.

  “Paige.” Henry held out his hand. “Meet my nephew.”

  Henry didn’t need to say the name. I did. It flowed from my lips in a wispy uncontrolled way. “Dash.”

  DASH

 

  While Uncle invited her for lunch and cocktails, Paige declined and quickly departed. She had things to do, understandably.

  I was close to my uncle, but he never mentioned his assistant was the daughter of the late, great, Sterling Bronavanavanavich.

  “I honestly didn’t know,” Uncle Henry said. “She was my event assistant. Part time. She’s been with me only about six months. I mean, how often do we get to know the personal side of our employees?”

  “True, but her name. Did it not ring a bell?”

  “Not really.” He shrugged. “I didn’t even think about it. I knew she worked at the museum. I didn’t hire her for her mind. I heard she was working multiple jobs to get money for her mother’s care. I had to help her. Poor thing.”

  “You are too good, Uncle. Had you known she was such a brilliant paleontologist like her father, you probably would have helped her other ways.”

  “Absolutely,” he said. “I have friends who need talent like that. I just thought she was a bone handler.”

  “Now she’s my bone handler.” I smiled, then I noticed my Uncle suddenly wasn’t. “What is it?”

  “Oh, nothing. I hate losing her. I really do.”

  “Understandable.”

  I finished the visit with my Uncle. Telling him what I could without breaching my agreement with Hedlin Rush. No fine details were to be given. Hedlin wanted it top secret until we revealed our findings. Hedlin also was in great competition with my Uncle. It was an amusing rivalry. Typically, I would tell my Uncle things, but this was too vital with too much money at stake. An amount, not even my Uncle would give.