But she was so distracted during the meeting with her personnel manager she was finally forced to delay the discussion for another day. When she returned to her office, she asked Alex to cancel any other appointments, claiming a headache.

“Darci?”

She stopped just before going into her office and turned. Alex stood and moved toward her uncertainly.

“I know we’ve always made it a point to keep our relationship strictly professional, but I can’t help but worry about you. Is everything all right?”

She had the urge to laugh, but knew it would have a hysterical edge to it. “Everything is as all right as it can be, Alex. Thank you for caring.”

“The man who was here this morning, your husband, does he have free access to your office?”

Darci squeezed her eyes closed, trying to hide from what needed to be said. “He’s not my husband until five o’clock this afternoon, Alex. And yes, he’s to have free access to my office.”

She started to open the door, then paused. “Would you make certain Mr. Jamison’s old office is cleaned tonight? Mr. Blackmore will be taking over that space soon. And see what you can do about finding a secretary for him within our own staff, would you?”

“Mr. Blackmore?”

She smiled awkwardly. “It’s a long story, Alex. In as few words as possible, I’m marrying my step-brother in a last-ditch effort to save this company from total ruin.” With a frantic twist of the handle, the door popped open and she fell through it gratefully. Alex’s shocked expression would stay with her for the rest of the afternoon. His was only the first reaction she would have to get beyond. There were many more people who would be even more stunned by her sudden marriage.

She’d almost made it to her desk when she realized just what she’d said to her secretary. Darting back through the door, she stopped him before he reached the hallway. “Alex.” She halted, not knowing how to say what needed to be said. “What I just told you, that’s in the strictest confidence.”

Alex only nodded. “As is everything we discuss in this office, Darci. If you’re certain this is what needs to be done, I’ll support you in every way that I can. And I can see the necessity of casting an illusion of lasting love on your pending relationship.” He turned away. “If you need nothing further, I’ll see to that office now.”

“Thank you, Alex.” His perception of the needs of any situation had always made Alex invaluable. When the company could see daylight again, she’d have to see about getting him a raise. A big one.

She massaged the bridge of her nose, trying to relieve her mounting stress. There was at least one phone call that needed to be made before she went shopping. Mother should be warned that Cole was back in town. Maybe Darci would omit the news of their marriage until at least their first wedding anniversary. If they made it that far.