Meet Nick Tarasov from SECRET CONTRACT by Dana Marton, Harlequin Intrigue, Apr. 2007

Name: Nick Tarasov

Occupation: secret commando

Zodiac sign: Aries

Tell us about yourself. Where were you raised? What’s your family like? Where do you live? Raised in Russia, fled to U.S. at age of 4 with mother after famous writer father was killed for his political satires. Current location is confidential, due to mission related to national security.

What are your short and long term goals? What do you want out of life? Short term: finish this mission while keeping the four women I trained for it alive. Keep professional distance from Carly who is an ace at getting under my skin. Long term: serve country.

What’s your most embarrassing moment? Sorry, still can’t talk about it. I’m just glad the guys forgot it for now.

Biggest regret? The men on the last team I trained were killed on a mission. Wish I could have prepared them better. The soldiers I train are like brothers to me. I remember each one and keep track of each one. I’d do anything to make sure that this current team I’m working with will fare better, but they are on the most dangerous mission yet.

Ever been convicted of a crime? No. I firmly stand for justice and what is right.

If you could meet anyone in the world, dead or alive, who would it be and why? My father. I would love to talk to him as an adult. He died when I was pretty young, so my memories of him are very dim. He was a great man who made a difference for his country. I hope someday I can say the same.

Are you single? Married? Looking? Single. Haven’t really thought about anything long-term until Carly came into my life. She is amazing, but how can I make a move when she is under my protection and I’m responsible for her training and safety?

What’s your ideal mate like? Tough. Honest. She would understand the job I do and why I do it. Seems like a tall order, doesn’t it? I never really thought a woman like that existed until recently.

Tell us a secret. What’s something others might not know about you? Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about settling down. I love what I do, but I’ve been also feeling that something is missing. If the guys knew, they’d think I’ve gone soft.

Do you have a nickname? No.

Any pet peeves? People who betray their countries and seek to take the freedom of others. I’d do anything to stop them.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be and why? I’ve been told that I see things too much in black and white. While I need that to make quick decisions in dangerous situations, I do think that I need to be more patient with people.

Any pets? None. I’m always off on some mission.

How about allergies? None.

Do you support any charities? Habitat for Humanity. I’ve seen their work in some pretty miserable places where I’d been with various operations. I was truly impressed by the difference they make.

Is the glass half full or half empty? Half full. If I didn’t believe that, I couldn’t do the work that I do. I have to believe that individual people can make a difference and that the good guys will triumph in the end.