Scars of the Heart Jennifer Cloud (c) 2004 ISBN 1-59578-057-2
Scars of the Heart Jennifer Cloud Published 2004 ISBN 1-59578-057-2 Published by Liquid Silver Books, imprint of Atlantic Bridge Publishing, 10509 Sedgegrass Dr, Indianapolis, Indiana 46235. Copyright © 2004, Jennifer Cloud. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission of the author. Manufactured in the United States of America Liquid Silver Books http://lsbooks.com Email:
[email protected] Cover Art by Dawn Seewer This is a work of fiction. The characters, incidents and dialogues in this book are of the author’s imagination and are not to be construed as real. Any resemblance to actual events or persons, living or dead, is completely coincidental.
Chapter One Sorsha pulled in at the Mountain Vista, a ritzy place with a five-star restaurant, some luxury specialty shops in the lobby and, of course, one of the best spas. The masseur worked from a side entrance in the hotel. Sorsha had had an herbal treatment there two years ago and fell in love with the place—but the best part was the massages. The crowded parking lot stayed littered with out of state plates and only a few local North Carolina ones. She found a parking place, avoiding the valet charges, then walked over to the door with Vista Masseurs printed in gold letters. Their hours were listed also on the door along with the names of the masseurs working. She didn’t usually do things so lavishly but with her wedding seven days away, her tension-wracked body needed some relief. There was too much to do and she couldn’t get around to finishing the last details while pain shot through her neck. Her cell phone rang, causing her to jump as she started through the door. She turned, grabbing the phone from a side compartment in her purse and felt the horrible tightening run from her neck to her shoulder. The display showed Adam’s work number so she turned off the ringer. Things had grown strange between she and Adam, forcing her to wonder if she’d made a mistake accepting his proposal. That one “yes” corrupted every aspect of her life. Her personal problems crept in at work. Every day that the wedding drew closer, she thought she might go crazy. Their relationship had developed very quickly, that was all. It was pre-wedding jitters. Very normal, very common. Maybe she didn’t know him well enough to be doing this. Six months wasn’t enough time to decide to get married much less go through with one. Still, when he’d proposed two months ago, she’d accepted. That was before she’d realized that he’d want such a quick wedding. His family tradition consisted of extravagant June weddings. She’d pushed it back as far as she could, June twenty-sixth, but it hadn’t given her much time. Things would be nicer if they could switch the dates to next year but Adam wouldn’t hear of that either. In his mind, everything was set. Marriage was supposed to be forever but she already found some of his habits unbearable. The way he spoke and corrected everything she said drove her crazy. Then there was the way he left his clothes in a trail on the way to the bedroom, and how he fixed breakfast. Maybe that’s what had driven her to kiss David. Oh, that had been such a mistake. It had happened all of a sudden. David had been beside her, standing so close and asking about her marriage plans. At least he hadn’t told Adam. David had been the love of her life. She’d known in an instant that he was perfect for her, moving in with him after a month of dating. For two years, life was bliss—then he had disappeared without explanation. A year had passed without any correspondence, then he’d arrived wielding that smile of his like a weapon. With her set to marry Adam, there was no going back.
Still, she obsessed about it. It didn’t matter. She was going to her massage appointment. A half-hour of muscle relaxation would set her right. Her neck felt like it was in a vice grip and she’d begun a habit of gritting her teeth until her jaws ached. It’s just cold feet, that’s all, she kept telling herself. She loved Adam, didn’t she? He was a decent guy. Okay, there had been a few problems. Adam was a little bit of a clean freak, except with his clothes, and had a few problems with his roaming eye—but he was faithful. He’d explained the female clothing she’d found last month. The dry cleaner had made a mistake. It happened all the time. Sorsha walked into the reception area at the Vista. The last time she’d been here was about six months ago when she’d started dating Adam. They’d worked miracles on her back then and she certainly needed a miracle now. “Welcome to Vista’s. Do you have an appointment?” A lovely redhead stood at the front and seemed startled by someone coming in. Sorsha could see the edge of a textbook poking out from beneath the counter, probably homework the girl hadn’t finished yet. “Yes. My name is Sorsha Robbins. I have an appointment.” She put her purse on the counter and waited for the regular payment and itemization of the treatment to come. When the woman only stared at her, Sorsha felt the first pang of uneasiness. “Is everything okay? Do you need my credit card?” She started looking down a list, then picked up a note to the side of the appointment book. “Oh. I’ve found your appointment.” The receptionist got a strange look on her face then let out a giggle. “Your card isn’t necessary, ma’am. You gave us the number when you phoned.” The girl giggled again and blushed. Sorsha looked behind her wondering what in the world this woman found so funny. There was no one behind her. She checked her zipper, then the buttons on the front of her blouse. Everything was in place. “Is everything okay?” asked Sorsha, looking behind her again. “Yes, ma’am. It’s just your appointment has been moved to the suite in the hotel.” The girl’s eyes darted back to the note. “It’s very nice. I think you’ll prefer it to our rooms.” “The suite?” She’d never heard of a masseur doing anything legitimate in a suite. “Are you sure? I just have a messed up neck.” Sorsha didn’t want to get any nasty surprises in the hotel and she’d heard of plenty things happening in massage parlors that gave more than massages. “I just need a neck rub.” “Yes, ma’am. The owner finds the atmosphere helps to relax guests. He does it whenever it’s available. In fact, I’ll have someone show you upstairs right away.” The girl averted her eyes and looked at the note again. Sorsha thought it sounded like a good idea. Large and luxurious surroundings might help ease her woes. She sat in one of the cloth-covered chairs and waited. In a moment, another young girl, not more than seventeen, led her to the hotel’s entrance. The lobby floors were done in gray marble with rich burgundy colors on the walls and drapes. They walked by a long counter where two clerks stood, dressed in suits. Both seemed curious as they watched her and the girl from the spa cross the room, but neither said a word. Sorsha followed the spa attendant to the elevators. Once they boarded, the attendant hit the button for the fifth floor. Neither spoke, staring straight ahead as the elevator rose.
A minute later the doors swished open to a long carpeted hallway with the suite located at the end. She’d never stayed at the Mountain Vista but heard it was wonderful, and incredibly expensive. The room she walked into had to cost a bundle to rent. The bedroom was set behind double doors with a fireplace in the main living area. A full kitchen was to the side, but the best thing was a set of French doors leading out to a balcony. That’s where the attendant led her. “Your masseur will be with you in a minute. There is a robe next to the table. The masseur requests that you wear that afterward. There is a towel on the table. Just take everything off and put the towel over you. If there’s any area you’d like him to concentrate on, let him know.” “Thank you.” The attendant left—also giving her a questioning glance. She started to feel a little paranoid and went to the mirror on the wall. Everything looked to be in place. Her blond hair fell just below her shoulders. The little make-up she wore wasn’t smeared or anything. There was a tiny coffee stain on the front of her blouse, but it was hardly noticeable. She shrugged and walked out on the balcony. Candles were set on the edge around the table. There was a Jacuzzi, also with candles surrounding, making it look very inviting. Sorsha stripped off her clothes outside, feeling wonderfully naughty with the wind touching her bare flesh. The patio was private from every side except overhead, where a fading sky showed touches of a sunset just beginning. After folding her things, she wrapped a towel around her mid-section then lay on the table. A few minutes passed before she heard someone in the suite. There were footsteps, then from somewhere music started. The classical mix was pumped outside to speakers mounted near the door. “Hello?” called Sorsha. “Yes, Ms. Robbins,” spoke a man with the worst French accent she’d ever heard. “Allow me a moment to get ready for you.” “Okay.” Sorsha turned to look at the masseur but couldn’t see anything inside the dark suite. The sun kept her attention as it created the most amazing light show she’d ever seen. Brilliant colors filled the sky. She almost wished Adam were here—then on second thought, she was glad he wasn’t. Romance was lost on him. Maybe that’s why she missed David so much. He was a romantic. Once a month he’d buy her flowers. Not a day would go by that he didn’t call her, even when they saw each other every night. He was also amazing in other ways. A little smile crept across her face as she thought about him—his face, the way his eyes lit up when he looked at her. Then he’d disappeared from their house and her life. Adam wouldn’t disappear. He was stable. Things were predictable with him, safe. That was the kind of guy a girl should marry. He was eager to get married too. With him being so sure about their relationship, she shouldn’t doubt it. “Miss, I am going to lower this towel just a bit.” His hands were at her back, bringing the towel lower, uncovering the smallest bit of her ass.
The sound of a voice startled her, since she hadn’t heard him come outside. “Okay.” Sorsha started to turn her head. “My neck has been giving me some trouble and my back.” “Please keep your head still. Face forward and look at the sunset. It is relaxing, no?” He brushed her hair to the side. “This should feel good.” She cringed when the hot oil hit her back. It didn’t burn but was almost uncomfortable until he rubbed it into her skin. His hands, firm but gentle as he followed her spine then worked the muscles outward. “How does that feel?” His accent stayed the terrible fake French but there was something soothing in his voice. “Wonderful.” She sighed. “What’s your name?” The masseur didn’t answer only continued to rub with very strong hands. He worked her neck, kneading the muscles. Next, his hands went to her shoulders, rubbing away six months of stress. “Why are you so tense, madam?” “Getting married.” She felt his hands go lower on her back “Take my advice, and never do it.” “It can’t be that bad.” He applied more oil as he spoke. “If you love the man, then all will work out.” She laughed. “Don’t bet on it. I’m sure to screw up the wedding and humiliate my husband in front of his family. In fact, I think my future mother-in-law is hoping Adam will be too ashamed to walk down the aisle with me.” “Such a lovely girl shouldn’t have such worries.” His hands went to her feet, massaging the soles deeply, causing her to melt. Then he started on her calves. The oil slipped along her flesh, running higher with each pass of his hand, bringing him to her thighs where he concentrated with firm rubs. At first he gently kneaded her muscles but the touch changed. He seemed enamored with her skin, touching her with splayed fingers and running the length of her leg. The tips of his fingers crept to the curve of her ass then slipped back down in soft caresses and a light moan escaped her. His touch continued traveling to her inner thighs, both hands touching her with the hot oil. Sorsha felt a weird chemistry pass between them as his hands worked higher on her body. Electricity filled her, sending heated sensations over her skin. For a moment, she felt her thighs open wider, hoping his nimble fingers would keep traveling. Once she realized what she’d done, she tried to bring her legs back together. He pushed them wider as if he hadn’t reached his destination yet. Her body grew hot with his touches, her breathing rapid. Every muscle seemed to call for him to reach beneath the towel. It was crazy, but her body knew his touch. She looked back but his face turned away from her. There was something familiar about him though. He rubbed her as if he knew what she wanted, what she’d respond to. “David?” “Who?” came the awful French accent. “Who are you asking for?” She felt the towel move higher, then hands she’d missed for so long eased toward her ass. It was him. She was certain of it. His fingers worked higher on her thighs and she felt an old ache in her body. There was only one man who could make her feel like this. “I know it’s you, David.”
He came closer until she could feel his breath on her neck and whispered in her ear. “Don’t tell. I’m trying to seduce a beautiful woman.” He planted a soft kiss on her cheek. “I’m leaving.” Sorsha started to lean up. “You don’t want to do that.” He went back to her thighs, kneading them carefully. “I’ve already taken your clothes. You’re mine for an hour. After that, I’ll return your clothes and you can leave.” Sorsha turned her head to the side. Sure enough the chair where she’d left her clothes was empty. On the other side, the robe was also missing. She had one small towel for coverage and nothing else. “Are you intending to rape me?” she asked leaning up. “No. You know me better than that.” He slid one oil-covered hand higher on her thighs. “If we sleep together, it will be a mutual choice. I just have an hour to convince you to stay the weekend.” She looked back and saw his defined torso pushing against his shirt. “David, I’m getting married in a few days. Adam…” “Don’t say that name to me. At least don’t say it for the next hour.” He put a little kiss on the back of her thigh. “Just say my name.” David’s hands slid onto her ass, massaging the skin. Every nerve ending came alive as he poured more hot oil on her flesh. In another moment the towel disappeared and David made a small grunt of pleasure. His hand ran over her, up to her shoulders then back down enjoying her naked body. “I don’t even get the towel?” She bit her lip trying to hide her arousal. “No.” He kissed the small of her back. “Don’t be modest. I’ve seen you naked a thousand times. You look delicious.” She noticed the oil had a strawberry scent, and if David had picked the oils, they’d have a flavor too. Sorsha squirmed in delight. He’d always enjoyed more colorful sex, and had made her enjoy it too. “How long have you had this planned?” “Ever since you kissed me. That’s when I knew I still had a chance with you.” His hands went over her. Then she felt a wet kiss on her ass. “Not a bad plan.” He kissed her ass again and smacked his lips. “That kiss was a mistake.” She tried to swallow the smile on her face but her body had declared mutiny. “No. I think your fiancé is a mistake.” He slid his oil-covered hand between her thighs, opening her wider. A cool breeze touched her, contrasting with the hot oil, and she felt her pussy grow moist, hungry for its long-lost companion. “Stop it, David,” she said with a shudder. “You have to stop this.” “I’ll stop if you can tell me honestly that you don’t love me.” “David!” She pushed her upper body up from the table, then noticed that he stood in front of her. “This is quite enough.” Her words lost their edge when she looked at him. Those smoldering brown eyes of his always had controlled her. He slid his hands to her breasts, ending her protests and making her eyes close. He finished with his index fingers, dabbling her nipples with the hot oils. They reacted. He’d known how she’d respond. She’d never doubted his ability to anticipate her every whimper—her every climax.
“When you can tell me that you don’t love me, I’ll stop touching you—but I don’t think you can lie that easily. In fact, I think you’re enjoying this as much as I am.” He rubbed more oil on her breasts then flicked each nipple with his tongue. “I don’t think you could leave if you wanted to.” “No. I’m getting married.” She arched her back and helped him take another lap at her nipples. “This is so wrong.” “You should be marrying me.” He moved back behind her. She could’ve gotten up. There would have to be a bedspread or more towels she could cover up with, but David was right. She couldn’t move. Passion held her, and the love of her life made staying too easy. Behind her, she heard the sound of cloth. It was a soft sound. She turned her head to find that David had removed his shirt. He had a magnificent body. When she’d first met him, he’d worked in construction and demolition. Of course, that was before he’d left. His body was still a well-developed mix of tight flesh and sculpted muscles. “I really should go.” She tried to speak louder but her voice rebelled, making her words come out in husky whispers. “Hour’s not up.” She looked back at him again and noticed a nasty scar on his chest. It didn’t look that old and still held a red sheen with several heavier dots in it. The line traveled across his chest from just below his breastbone up to his shoulder. If she didn’t know better, she’d sworn he’d been shot or sliced up. “What happened to you?” Her first concern had been his injuries but the way he looked at her made her body turn toward him. She liked his eyes on her, in that intimate way. Sorsha leaned up, letting him see her naked, oiled breasts. Part of her wanted him to slide the strawberry-flavored tit into his mouth. He had a wicked way of manipulating her breasts, of driving her mad. The thought made her nipples harden and she eased back onto the table. “This is nothing you need to worry about now. We’ll talk about the time we were apart later.” Then she heard a zipper. She didn’t look this time. He was naked. She could feel it like a primal pull. Her body wanted him, needed him—but it was wrong. She couldn’t allow this to happen. Her body felt feverish. The yearning built stronger making her every nerve pulse. She could still leave. Then she heard bare feet on the balcony tile. He was naked and coming towards her. She didn’t know what to do. One phrase and she could leave but couldn’t bring herself to lie. “Wait,” she whispered. His hands were on her again. Fresh hot oil dripped onto her body. His hand reached up. This time he didn’t stop at her thighs, but crept higher. She let out a gasp as his fingers parted her, plunging hot oil against her delicate places. “David?” “Shh.” He sunk his fingers further inside, starting a slow rhythm. “You’re no virgin. Let me pleasure you. If you don’t want my cock, fine, let me at least bring you satisfaction.” “But…” She couldn’t bear to say her fiancé’s name, not with another man’s fingers inside her.
His pace quickened and she felt a torrent rising inside. He always knew how to direct her, controlling every part of her body. Her bottom eased higher to give him full advantage. She couldn’t help it—every cell in her screamed for him. Just as her body crept to a fever pitch, he stopped. It wasn’t until she felt him get on the table, sliding his hands underneath her that she realized what was happening. She didn’t fight it. She let him raise her hips and slide his face beneath her. His tongue did the rest. His hand wrapped around her, gripping her ass, pulling her body against his hungry mouth. Then she lost control, moaning low and heavy as she came. It wasn’t enough for him though. His mouth stayed, teasing and torturing the overly sensitive edge of her lips. When she tried to rise up, he grabbed her, forcing her back against his tongue that danced with increasing pressure against her clit. “Oh, David,” she moaned and gripped the table as the next orgasm shot through her. “David.” That seemed to be the key. He slid out from under her body. Her thighs were still trembling when she felt him get back on the table. This time, when he raised her bottom into the air, his face didn’t slide beneath. He had other plans. She knew what he was doing when he put his hands on either side of her hips. He hesitated, as if waiting to see if she’d refuse him. Instead she rose onto her knees, waiting for him to fill the void that had been missing for a year. “If you’re going to say no, do it now.” Instead of rejecting him, she reached behind her and touched his body, feeling him in her hand once again. Oh, he felt ready. He didn’t wait for another sign. First he was against her thigh, then, with the help of the oil, he was there, inside her, taking her. He lowered her onto her belly then started a slow gentle pace. “I was lost without you,” he whispered. “You left,” she managed, as her breaths became shallow. “You left me.” It was happening again. He could make her feel ecstasy with a look, much less with the things he was doing now. His cock was large and filled her body with need at each stroke. “I had to.” His rhythm increased. “Don’t marry him. Marry me.” He groaned. “Please marry me.” She didn’t answer. Her mind and body were out of control, lost in each thrust. The feeling of his flesh rubbing against her, his body inside her, was making her crazy. She felt another rush coming, harder than the first two, and it frightened her. “Please,” she cried, but didn’t know why. “Let it go,” he whispered. “Just let go, baby.” All of a sudden his body lost its earlier gentleness. He slammed against her hard and unrelenting. The world exploded around her in pinpricks of color, and desire dancing over her flesh. She spasmed, unable to control her body as he kept riding deeper, bringing them together in a torrent of passion. “Sorsha,” he whispered. “Sorsha.” The last words sounded painful as he climaxed and curled against her body.
Chapter Two Sorsha woke on the bed in the suite, with David curled next to her. They were both naked, lying on top of the covers. She rolled over to look at him. This was the same man who’d broken her heart. Could she trust him again? Her body was slick with oil and sex. She went to the shower. The bathroom in the suite was wonderful. Under other circumstances, she’d sit in the tub and relax, but for now, she wanted to rinse her skin clean. This could all be a terrible mistake. Adam was so stable and kind. How could she face him and tell him that it was over? The invitations had been sent out. Her parents would flip. She grabbed a bar of hotel soap, unwrapped the paper and rolled the bar between her hands. Her skin shimmered with a bit of the oil that hadn’t been absorbed. The lather wouldn’t take away her sins, no matter how hard she scrubbed. The oil had even gotten in her hair, making the blond strands look much darker. There was a little bottle of shampoo she used to wash it out, although nothing seemed to remove the stuff completely. David certainly had taken care of everything, down to the evidence to get her busted. It would take two or three showers to get all this stuff off. David always had all the angles covered. It would be best to end things with David before she got used to having him around. Maybe she should just slip away, go out the front door. It’s what David had done to her. Turnabout was fair play. Deep down inside she knew she had to go through with the wedding to Adam. David would leave her again, crying in her pillow and wondering what she’d done wrong. He’d hurt her once. She couldn’t give him the opportunity to put her through that hell again. Sorsha got out of the shower and toweled off. She still had no idea where he’d hidden her clothes. He couldn’t have taken them far. She didn’t remember him leaving the room. Quietly, she started her search. There was no sign of her clothes in the bathroom. Nothing was under the bed or in the closet. The drawers were empty and time was growing short. She had to leave before David woke. The last item of furniture in the room was a television armoire. There were her things, folded and set inside. She pulled everything out and dressed while watching David’s naked body stretched over the bed. David moved a bit but didn’t wake. A small pad of paper with the hotel logo sat on the table by the bed. She quickly wrote a note, then reconsidered and crumpled it into the trash can. He hadn’t given her a goodbye. There was no way he deserved one now. She snuck out the hotel door, closing it as quietly as she could. In the hallway she lingered just a moment, almost wishing he’d come out and make her stay. Feeling this indecisive wasn’t normal for her, but she knew that she’d always love David, no matter what kind of asshole he was or who she married.
Sorsha ran out the door, crying. She wasn’t aware of the walk to the car. Her thoughts kept going back to David. He’d broken her once and he wasn’t going to do it again. For him to come back now and send her life into a whirlwind wasn’t fair. As she got into the car, the cell phone started ringing. She recognized the number. It was Adam. She couldn’t talk to him now, not after what had happened. She wasn’t sure if she could even look at him again. “What have I done?” Sorsha asked the dark sky with stars poking out. “This isn’t right.” She wiped her eyes and started down the road. Somehow she had to avoid David. It shouldn’t be hard. The next week was going to be very busy. Between work and the wedding plans, she’d have no time for anything, much less old boyfriends. “It never happened. I don’t want David. I want someone who won’t break my heart and there’s no way Adam can do that.” The phone next to her started ringing again. She took a deep breath, knowing that she couldn’t avoid talking to Adam forever, and answered it. This wasn’t going to ruin her life. The whole thing happened because of pre-wedding jitters, nothing more. “Hello?” “Sorsha, I’ve been trying to reach you. Where are you?” Adam’s boring tone raised a notch. “I’ve been waiting.” Where was she? What was she going to say? Lying had never been something she was especially good at. “I fell asleep after the massage. They didn’t want to disturb me. Sorry I’m so late.” “It’s nine o’clock,” Adam sounded upset. “You were supposed to meet me for dinner an hour ago. Here I sit, like a fool waiting for you. I get no phone call, nothing. What the hell is the matter with you?” “Please forgive me, sweetie.” Tears filled her eyes again, making the road blur in front of her. “I was so tense. Listen, I think I’ll just go home. You go ahead and eat, and I’ll grab something on the way home.” “I certainly hope this new irresponsible trend doesn’t last. I had a wonderful evening planned for us.” She knew what his idea of a wonderful evening was. He would take her to dinner and complain about his work all night. Then he would take her back to his apartment and make love with all the passion of a robot. At the end, he’d roll over and snore while she watched television. “I am so sorry. The masseur should’ve woken me.” She wiped her eyes again. “I have so much packing to finish at my house. I think this week is going to be crazy. Why don’t we try to have dinner tomorrow?” “Okay. I guess planning this wedding has been rough on you.” His tone softened. “My parents will be in town tomorrow. It would be nice if we all went out.” “Great.” She relaxed. After what had just happened, she didn’t want to see him, much less have him touch her. “Tomorrow it is.” It was time to get back to the formalities. “Should I bring a gift for your mother?” “That would be wonderful. You could swing by the mall and pick her up something. You know mother’s tastes.” “I sure do.” They were costly and no matter what she bought, it would be the wrong gift. “Bye, sweetie.”
“Love you.” She ended the call before answering him. It wasn’t that she didn’t love Adam. He was wonderful. There was no way he’d run out on her. Even if she confessed what she’d done, he’d forgive her. He was just that kind of guy. He would also hold it over her head for the rest of her life and use it as an excuse to do what he pleased. All she wanted was to go soak in a tub and hope she could get rid of the last traces of oil. Her entire life was starting and she wasn’t going to blow it. Saturday, she would be Mrs. Adam Mills. A year from now she would have his child. A few years later, she’d have a second and they would live happily ever after. It was perfect. She sighed and relaxed in her seat trying to forget the feeling of David’s hands on her body. That was hard to do. He knew how to haunt her and, even driving down the road at sixty miles per hour, she felt him. **** David reached over and found the bed empty. He got up and looked around halfheartedly. He’d known she’d gone, even before he checked the suite and the hot tub outside. His eyes turned glassy but he wasn’t ready to give up. Winning her would take more than one evening of passion. He’d been prepared to go the distance. It was his fault that she was marrying this jerk, his fault that she’d gone to another man’s arms for comfort. There were so many things he should tell her but finding the words seemed impossible. She’d barely spoken to him at the coffee shop when he’d run into her. When he’d forced a conversation, all she talked about was her fiancé—at least until they’d kissed. He started the bubbles on the Jacuzzi and slid inside and breathed in the soft night air. Tomorrow he’d have another chance. There was no way he’d let her marry that Adam jerk. He didn’t care what it took. Sorsha would be his again. She was driving home now. Tomorrow she would go to work at eight. She would drink her coffee at her desk and pretend she didn’t even know a David Stafford. No matter how much she wanted him, she wouldn’t be easily won. “Sorsha,” he whispered her name out loud. There was no way she’d understand why he’d left so suddenly or why he hadn’t called in the year he’d been gone. In truth, he didn’t want to start down that road. It showed even more betrayal on his part and she might never forgive him. It was hard for him to forgive himself. “Damn,” he pushed his long brown hair behind his ear and eased against the side of the Jacuzzi. He wished things weren’t so complicated. He’d had to leave her a year ago. Maybe he should’ve ‘fessed up then and risked losing her love. That would’ve been better than running away like a scared kid. The heat became too much. He got out of the water and walked into the suite he’d rented for the weekend. There were so many things he’d wanted to share with her. He should’ve known she wouldn’t stay, though. He didn’t bother drying off or even covering himself. Dripping wet, he sat on the bed and picked up the phone. She probably wouldn’t answer when she realized who it was, but he needed to hear her voice, so he dialed.
“Hello?” Her sweet voice filled his head and he smiled. “Hello?” “I suppose I deserve you walking out on me. Will you at least give me a chance to explain why I left a year ago?” He touched his bare chest, tracing the scar that almost killed him. There’s no way she’d understand what he’d been through in the last year, the seedy hotels, the run for his life. It was a nightmare, but through all of it he believed he would have his Sorsha again. “Please let me explain.” “David.” Emotion filled her words. “You shouldn’t be calling me. We shouldn’t have done that. It was a mistake. Whatever took you away should have kept you away, because for you to leave me without a reason or even a goodbye just proves how little you cared about me.” “No. I love you, always have. Adam is a mistake and you know it.” He’d briefly met her fiancé and the guy suffered from terminal stick-up-the-ass. “Please, give me a chance before you ruin the rest of your life.” “I think being with you was the only mistake.” Sorsha didn’t sound strong. “Will you at least let me explain why I left?” Even if she hated him, it should be for the right reasons. “There are things you don’t understand.” “You broke my heart, you know. I’m not going to give you the chance to do it again.” The line went dead. David gripped the receiver and slammed it back on the cradle. She was trying to shut him out. Well, this was far from over. He had a week and if he had to tie her down and make her listen, then he would. Once, he’d walked away—he wouldn’t do it again. “I love you Sorsha. Somehow, I’ll prove it.”
Chapter Three Sorsha went to work dressed very conservatively in a knee-length skirt and long jacket. Her hair was up in a bun making her look like a very pretty librarian. Never had she cheated on a boyfriend before, much less the man she was getting ready to pledge her life to, so the act still made her feel dirty. Even as she went into the lobby of Gruyter and Sons, she felt as if everyone was staring at her. She had an invisible “A” pasted across her forehead. What kind of woman cheats on her fiancé? Even worse, she kept checking the lobby for him. Part of her wanted him to come, the other never wanted to see him again. It was illogical. She couldn’t understand why he preoccupied her thoughts or last night’s dreams. Even with all the guilt, she could still taste his lips and feel his body touching hers. David had left invisible marks on her and the scent of strawberries. She closed her eyes and felt his mouth on her. Suddenly she became very aware that she’d stopped in the middle of the lobby and her skin felt flushed. It was time to get to work, not obsess over a man. She crossed the floor, hearing her shoes click on the marble. There weren’t many people here today, but she gave her polite nods to the few that waved as she made her way to the elevators. She’d taken a long bath last night so it wasn’t possible the oils were still on her skin but she couldn’t shake the scent of strawberries. It was worse when she stood still, pushing the up button on the wall. Her thighs squeezed together remembering his mouth. The way he’d held her so tightly against him. The sensation started building. A year ago, she would’ve called him for a lunch time rendezvous. Last year things had been great. She got on the elevator and rode up. Each time the elevator door would open, she hoped he would be there, smiling at her like he’d done when they’d been dating. No such luck. She reached her office unhindered. David had probably already left town. She felt sick at the thought. Surely, after she was married these feelings for him would die. They’d have to. Living with his memories were making her crazy. “Sorsha,” Debbie started down the hall towards her. “Some guy has left you like a dozen messages.” Debbie caught her as she opened the door to her office. She already knew who they were from. Debbie had a twisted little smile, as if she had the world’s juiciest secret in her hands. “It’s from David. Didn’t you date him a while back?” Her little red head bobbed up and down, begging for information. “Yes. He’s back in town. He didn’t realize that I was getting married.” Sorsha smiled and hoped Debbie left the subject alone. “I’m sure he just wants to offer his congratulations. She took the messages from Debbie. They were all notes for her to call him and apologies for the mistakes he’d made. All of them were generic. He’d told Debbie just
enough for Sorsha to get the message but not enough to give away yesterday’s rendezvous. “Is he the one with long hair?” She smiled as if remembering him. “Yes.” Sorsha felt like smacking the look off the little slut’s face. “He had long hair.” “He was really muscular.” She bit her red fingernail. “What did he do for a living?” “Demolition.” Sorsha tried stepping into her office but Debbie wasn’t finished with the cross-examination. “A hands on kind of guy, huh?” Debbie licked her lips. “Back off.” Sorsha felt a twinge of anger run through her. “This is not the time of the place for this type of discussion. Let’s drop it now.” “Come on, you’re not interested in him. You’re getting married. Let me return some of these calls for you and take him off your hands.” Sorsha felt fury in her gut. “Be a whore on your own time. Don’t you have telephones to answer?” She locked eyes with the little redhead, forcing the woman to look away. “Bitch,” muttered Debbie. “Is there a problem?” David appeared in the hallway, carrying a dozen red roses in a vase. “Not in the slightest,” replied Debbie with that smirk. “Is there something I can help you with? I’m not getting married in a week.” Sorsha felt like ripping the little slut’s head off. She had no right to move in on David. Sorsha felt a twinge of pleasure as David moved by Debbie without giving her a second glance. “I thought you might like some flowers.” David handed her the vase. “Can we talk in your office?” “Sure.” She ushered David in the office, then stuck her tongue out at Debbie before shutting the door. “What brings you by?” “You know why I’m here.” He moved toward her fast, pinning her between his body and the door. “We have unfinished business.” “This can’t happen. I am getting married on Saturday. You can’t just come back into my life and turn it upside down.” Sorsha reached up, placing a hand between them. “You’re the one who ran out on me. Don’t get angry because I’ve moved on with my life.” “I need to tell you why I left. We need to talk.” He took her hand and put it on his chest over his heart. “You owe me that much.” “I don’t owe you anything. Get out of my office.” “Not until you agree to speak with me.” He took her other hand and started kissing the knuckles. “Somewhere away from your office.” She jerked her hand away. “Damn, it’s Sunday for goodness’ sake.” “Marketing never stops. I’ve started taking Mondays off but it’s just about the only day I get.” “You always worked too much.” He leaned in, pressing against her. “You always worked too little. I rarely remember seeing you go to work.” She laughed. He was almost always there when she got off work and ready to take her out to lunch. “I never understood that.”
“Demolition is an odd job.” He eased his body closer and pressed his erection against her. “You never wanted for anything. I always bought you presents.” “I didn’t ask for presents. I asked for you.” She pushed him, but he was too heavy to move. “Then have me. I’m all yours. I always have been.” His hips rested against hers, making any movement impossible. She loved how aggressive he was. Even when she’d thought she belonged to him, he’d been assertive, almost animalistic in his pursuits. Sometimes she’d tease him, saying no so he’d seduce her. “I belong to someone else,” she breathed. He stood too close, swallowing her words in his masculinity. She closed her eyes and felt his breath at her ear. It wasn’t fair. He knew what drove her crazy. Even as she felt his body press against her, she knew saying no wouldn’t be possible. “You belong to me.” All at once his hand was at her chin, tilting her face up to his. She wouldn’t fight him. His mouth came closer and she hungered for him. Sorsha moistened her lips, waiting, needing to be kissed. As his lips grazed hers, a knock at the door made both of them jump. The interruption should’ve been a relief. Instead she was angry and disappointed. Half enraged, she threw open the door to find Debbie there holding a cup of coffee. “I thought your friend might like something to drink.” Sorsha shut the door in her face. There was no way she was going to share David with some tramp. Then she realized how perverse the thought was. She had no right to be anywhere near David. “I’m sorry about her. I think she’s in heat.” “I don’t mind.” He gave her a crooked smile. “It’s nice to see you jealous.” He came toward her but this time she sidestepped to keep from being pinned to the door again. Quickly, she went around the desk and sat. Maybe a little office furniture would keep him at a distance. “I’m not jealous.” She shook her head no. “If you want to date her, go ahead. It would keep you out of my hair.” “I don’t want to date her. I want you.” The telephone on her desk started ringing. She picked it up. Debbie should’ve held her calls, not that Debbie had ever been too good at her job. She pressed the receiver to her ear, and felt a rush of panic. “Hi, Adam.” Her eyes grew wide. She put one finger to her lips and hoped David would keep his mouth shut. David came around the desk and put his hands on the armrests of her chair, trapping her once more. Her chair tilted back just enough to give him an advantage. With her unable to protest, he started kissing her neck. “What’s up?” She tried to talk to Adam but it was hard. David’s mouth was ticklish, kissing down her throat. She swatted at him with one hand but it didn’t help anything. “I wanted to remind you about dinner tonight.” “Dinner?” She couldn’t think. A surge of heat darted over her skin and she stifled a moan.
“Yes, with my folks. I thought we could go to that little Italian place you like so much.” David’s mouth went lower as nimble fingers unbuttoned her blouse. His mouth followed the steady progress of his hands, driving her wild. She could hardly breath, much less speak, as he stroked her lace-covered breast. “Remo’s. That sounds great.” He pulled her breast out and started suckling her nipple. It was more than she could bear. Her heart pounded in her chest. The feeling was maddening as he switched breasts and took the other. “I’ve got to go.” She couldn’t say Adam’s name. “Very busy. Bye.” Sorsha hung up the phone and watched him filling his mouth with her flesh. She should protest but it felt so good to feel his tongue, his lips. Even the sight of him engrossed in his desires awoke emotions in her she didn’t know she still had. “We can’t do this here.” She petted his face watching his lips at work, feeling the gentle flicks against her nipple. “Can we do this?” He eased up her skirt. With an evil smile he gripped her panties. At first she thought he’d pull them down. Instead he ripped them off. There she sat with her shirt open, skirt up to her stomach and her panties shredded on her desk. “You’re mine,” he whispered to her pussy. “All mine.” She thought he would give her a replay of yesterday. Instead he kissed her thighs, teasing her, licking everything but the one place she wanted him most. The teasing was too much. Instead of telling him to stop, she grabbed the back of his head and pulled him to her center. “Will you be mine?” he asked her clit, letting his lips brush against her with every word. “Can I trust you again?” He answered her in a long, flickering kiss. His mouth stayed there, then pushed against her, devouring her with pure passion. The pressure of his tongue was exquisite. She should’ve been in ecstasy, instead she stopped him, pushing him back. “You know I still love you.” There were tears in her eyes. She spun the chair around, buttoned her shirt, and stood. “Losing you almost killed me. I can’t go down that road again.” “I won’t leave you again, I promise.” David went to her and put his arms around her. “You asked about the scar on my chest yesterday. I was shot, Sorsha. There’s a lot of things I’ve done. Things I’m not proud of.” “What took you away from me?” She looked at the panties on the desk and felt fresh shame. “Was it another woman? What made you leave without saying goodbye?” The phone started ringing again, despite Sunday being a slow day. Sorsha knew it had to be Adam. The reliable man wasn’t going to end a conversation abruptly. She sniffled back the tears and picked up the phone. “Hello?” “Are you okay? You sound strange.” Adam’s voice filled her head, reminding her of why she agreed to marry him. “I’m just very busy. It was sweet of you to call.” She looked at David who rolled his eyes and sat in her office chair. “I always knew I could rely on you.”
“You’re not getting cold feet about the wedding, are you?” “No. I just have a lot on my mind.” She sniffled again. “I’ll go by the mall on my lunch break and get a gift for your mother.” “Don’t forget, seven tonight.” He was so sweet and concerned. “Seven is perfect. I won’t be late.” Sorsha hung up the phone. David looked up at her with those dark eyes. He’d won more arguments with those eyes. He wouldn’t win this one. Sometimes loving someone wasn’t enough. “David, we’re over. I’m marrying Adam.” “You don’t love Adam.” “I care enough about him to marry him and at least I know he can never hurt me. Not the way you did.” She squared her shoulders and took a deep breath. “Now get out before I call security.” David took a step forward but something stopped him. Maybe it was Sorsha’s determination or maybe he realized an argument here wouldn’t serve any purpose. There was hurt in his eyes though. She’d wounded him, almost as badly as he had hurt her a year ago, and the realization stung her physically. “This isn’t finished.” David’s eyes were glassy. “I love you. You’ve got to realize that. Don’t settle for less than your heart’s desire.” He went to the door and left, closing it behind him. At that moment she collapsed at her desk. There was no way she’d love anyone the way she loved David. That love cost too much. **** David went down the hall toward the elevators. Debbie was sitting at her desk, checking herself in her compact. He hated women like her. There was nothing substantial to her beneath the push-up bra and red lipstick. “Leaving so soon?” Debbie flashed him a sinful smile. “Afraid so.” Part of him was tempted to take out Debbie just to get under Sorsha’s skin but he couldn’t bring himself to do it. “It was nice meeting you.” He started to walk away. “So what’s going on with Sorsha?” Debbie smiled as she looked up at him. “Trying to start something up again?” “She was just inviting me to the wedding.” He wasn’t about to give Debbie any ammo to use against Sorsha. “Is she having a bachelorette party?” “Sure is. Not the night before the wedding though. Her and Adam thought that would be a bad idea. Some girls at the office are throwing her one tomorrow. Should be hot.” She licked her lips. “I don’t suppose you want to be our entertainment for the night?” “I don’t think so.” He leaned on her desk. “Where is Adam’s party going to be at?” “I’m not sure. Seems like Sorsha said it was at the Cherry Pit. I think it’s a strip club or something. Anyway, it’s not on the same night. I think his is Tuesday or Wednesday.” “Thanks for the information.” If Sorsha didn’t turn around he’d pay Adam’s party a visit. Guys like him usually managed bad things during their bachelor parties. David was willing to bet he’d get at least one picture of a hooker blowing him before the night was over.
Debbie reached up and touched his arm. “What? Don’t I get anything for being so helpful?” “Well,” suddenly his cell phone rang. It was the perfect excuse to head toward the elevator. “Hello?” “Did you really think you would get away with it?” David felt a surge of panic as a voice from the past shook him to his core. Instinctively, he touched his chest where the scar showed Dominick’s mark on him. He shut his eyes. “How’d you find me?” “Wasn’t hard. I think you and I should talk.” There was a hard edge to his words. “In fact, I’d like to see you in person.” “We don’t have anything to talk about.” David felt nervous. This was supposed to be over two months ago. He’d nearly died because of this man and might’ve lost the love of his life. “I thought this was over between us.” “Oh, I think we have plenty to talk about.” “We’re even.” David lowered his voice not wanting Debbie to overhear. “Your boys did me a good one. Two lung shots.” “Too bad it didn’t kill you. I’ll bet we have better luck next time.” He laughed. “See you soon, Stafford. I’ll see you real soon.” He looked at the number on the display then called Agent Michael Tobes of the FBI. The call to the office was no good. Michael didn’t work Sundays. Fortunately, David had his cell number. “Hello?” came the heavy New Jersey accent. “Dominick called me.” David didn’t introduce himself, there was no need. The only consistent thing in his life for the last year had been Michael and the doubt that he’d done the right thing. “Stafford? Oh, shit.” “I thought you said I could have my life back. When is this going to be over?” David raised his voice while standing in front of the elevators. In the heat of the moment he’d forgotten to push the down button. Michael mumbled a few incoherent curses. “Let me call you right back.” Then the line went dead. The last year had been hell, but the only thing that had kept him going was the knowledge that it would end. He’d believed that from his first dealings with the FBI and now it was falling apart. “David?” He turned and found Sorsha standing at his back carrying a box of supplies. She had to have heard some of the conversation. Her eyes were wide, one hand reaching out to him. The freeze frame shocked him back to reality. He couldn’t be with her yet. No matter how much he wanted her, “I wish I could explain Sorsha.” He turned and hit the elevator button. “I have to talk to you and now.” He took the box from her and set it on the floor. “This is too important.” The elevator door opened. He grabbed Sorsha’s arm and pulled her inside with him. When the door closed he hit the stop button, freezing the elevator between floors and sealing her inside with him.
“I might have to leave town again. I don’t want to, but if I stay I’ll put us both in danger.” He ran his hands through his hair. Everything was falling apart again. This was why he left, to protect her. “I left because I’m a bastard and you deserve better. I know that.” “What’s going on? Talk to me.” Those wide, innocent blue eyes looked up at him and he felt his heart breaking. “Listen. Give me two weeks. Postpone the wedding. I have to get this worked out. Please.” He grabbed her by the shoulders. “Please, baby?” “You’re going to have to do better than that. I’m not turning my life upside down for you. Not after you ran out on me.” Sorsha reached over and hit the button for the first floor making the elevator continue its descent. “I left to protect you.” He shook his head. “That’s not completely true. I was covering for some major mistakes I’ve made. Listen, you don’t know about my past but I’ve lived one hell of a life.” “So what, you’re running out on me again. You want me to go to Adam and tell him to let me think about marrying him for a couple of weeks, I might have a better offer?” David’s cell phone started ringing as the elevator door opened in the first floor lobby. He reached for it while keeping a hand on Sorsha’s arm. She tried to pull away, but he walked with her past the desk, by several people, and to the street. “So why is Dominick calling me?” David asked Michael. “He’s out. The judge granted him a new trial, something to do with evidence tampering. I don’t have all the details yet.” There was the sound of a door shutting. “This is going to get messy again. I’m sorry, man.” “I’m standing here on Fifth Street with the woman I love, trying to explain to her why I disappeared for a year and you want me to go through that hell again?” “We can put you in protective custody. In fact, if you’ve been seen with her, we should bring her in too.” Michael breathed a little too hard into the phone. “That guy is going after you hard. You’re a dead man if you stay on the street.” “Michael says you could be in danger,” he spoke to Sorsha, knowing she couldn’t understand what was happening. Hell, he didn’t understand what was happening. He’d fulfilled his part of the bargain and now it was starting again. “Nice trick, dickhead. Is this one of your buddies trying to convince me to hide out in a hotel with you some place. Please.” She cut her eyes at him. “We’re through, David.” “This isn’t a joke, Sorsha. What do you think? That I’ve been holed up with some whore for a year?” He unbuttoned his shirt and pulled it open. “Do you want to know who gave me this scar? It was the man who will be hunting me, maybe both of us. Do you think I would’ve give up what we had if there wasn’t another way?” “Um, Stafford, I’m still here.” Michael’s voice was loud on the cell phone. “Sorry, Michael. I need accommodations for two. If Dominick knows about Sorsha, he’ll use her against me.” “I’ll call you in an hour. I’ll have everything arranged by then.” Sorsha started back into the building. David grabbed her again and pulled her around the corner off the main street. His shirt was still open, cell phone in his hand. He knew he looked desperate. Hell, he felt desperate. “Get off me, David.” Sorsha tried to pull away again, but he held tight. “I’m not falling for this crap.”
“This isn’t a joke or a game. If you don’t want me, fine. Could you at least stay alive to hate me?” “Go to hell, David. I am getting married Saturday, and if you don’t let go of me I will scream rape or fire or whatever it takes. Now back off.” He had no choice. Any scene she made would put her life in greater danger. There was nothing he could do. Going into hiding wouldn’t work. Dominick might already know about Sorsha. All he could do was hide in the background, watch her marry another man and try not to get killed in the process. Sorsha went down the alley and turned to go back in her building. He watched, unable to move while she walked away, without giving a look back. Maybe he had lost her love. He picked up his cell phone to call Michael back. Things weren’t going the way they had last time. “What’s up, Stafford?” “I’m not going into hiding.” He kept watching the building, although Sorsha had disappeared from sight. “I can’t do it again, not like last time. There’s too much at stake.” “Why?” “Listen, you guys couldn’t keep me safe and Sorsha won’t leave with me. I left quite a paper trail when I searched for Sorsha. It won’t take much for Dominick to find her, too.” “Are you saying you won’t testify again?” There was the authoritative tone David hated. David considered it. Backing down now wouldn’t stop Dominick though. “No. Either way, I’m a dead man.” He already felt like part of him had died. “Get an agent to watch Sorsha. I’m going to keep an eye on her myself and hope for the best. It’s really all I can do now.” He cleared his throat. “She’s getting married Saturday. Maybe when she takes another man, Dominick won’t consider her a threat.” “You know that’s not true. It doesn’t matter who she marries. If Dominick thinks you care for her, she’s dead.” He might have to follow her on her honeymoon. Wouldn’t that be great, he thought disgustedly. “Can’t you pick him up for something? Come on. You have a madman on the loose and are waiting for a new trial. Surely you guys can come up with a reason to hold him.” “I guess when he tries to kill you, we could have him arrested. The last time you got shot, Dominick was in custody. We know he gave the order, but proving it is a different matter.” “Is there anything you guys can do?” David already knew the answer to that. He’d had a year of agent screw ups and false promises. “I don’t know.” Michael breathed heavily into the phone. “At least let us put you up in a hotel. If your sleeping arrangements change, then maybe he won’t track you as easily.” He knew Sorsha still loved him. Things would be so much simpler if she would just leave with him. There was no way to prove his love for her though. She thought he was a joke. Nothing more than a creep who had walked out on her. “Maybe this time, we’ll get him.” David ended the call. But even if they get him, how long will it be before he’s out or hires someone to take another shot. It wasn’t the kind of life Sorsha deserved—always wondering, never feeling safe.
Things would’ve been better if he’d never left, but at the time, he didn’t think he could live with himself. He’d never let Sorsha know what he’d really done for a living. She was too sweet and innocent to be involved with someone like him. From the first moment he’d met her, he’d known she was out of his league. Luckily, no one told her. He’d met her at a diner near her workplace. After popping in for a bite to eat, he’d seen the lovely blond creature yelling into her cell phone. He could still remember the venom in her voice and somehow she was more beautiful for it. When she was done with her call, he’d followed her out to the street. She carried a take-out bag and seemed to be heading back to work to eat at her desk. “You work too hard, lady,” he’d said. “People should have more in their lives than a job.” She’d looked back at him and cut a look, which softened as their eyes met. It was a good day. With a little persuasion, she agreed to dinner. From there she’d belonged to him, and he wasn’t going to give her up yet. Marrying for less than love was perverse. She’d grow to hate Adam in less than a year and all because she’d been on the rebound from him. There had to be a way to make things right again, for both of them.
Chapter Four Sorsha had gift in hand, ready to go out with Adam’s parents. She really didn’t like them, mostly because it was obvious they didn’t care for her. Still she bought Adam’s mother, Beth, a very expensive bottle of wine. Maybe drunk the old bat would be more fun. Mr. and Mrs. Mills were the most boring people she’d ever met. Adam was a lot like them in that aspect. Every conversation started with talk about work. If she was lucky, they could discuss a book he’d been reading. That’s it. He didn’t go to the movies because they were beneath him, only enjoying snobby restaurants and art galleries—not that those things weren’t enjoyable. They weren’t things David would do though. Still, Adam would make a fine husband and doting father. He certainly wouldn’t run out on her. Their lives might not be the most interesting, but she didn’t need the drama. What if David had run for his life? It wasn’t possible. Things like that didn’t happen in real life. He’d probably hooked up with some old girlfriend and watched a movie to come up with the wild story. She shook off the thought and got out of her car. It was five minutes until seven. Adam would freak if she were late, especially since she’d been sitting out in the parking lot for ten minutes. David had no right walking back into her life and turning it upside down. She’d made a plan. It wasn’t perfect but it was better than risking coming home to an empty house. It would be a year tomorrow that he’d disappeared from her life. She’d started over, although she still lived in the house they’d rented. It was close to work. At least that’s why she reasoned she’d kept it. It wasn’t the hope that he’d come back for her. Of course, she’d never let Adam touch her there. She’d told him that the walls were thin and the neighbors would hear. The argument was illogical. It wasn’t like she lived in an apartment. The community was small but hardly close enough to hear the goings on in each other’s bedrooms. In all honesty, she was afraid David would walk in and find them. She felt like she’d been cheating on David for the last six months. It was ridiculous. He’d left her. There was nothing wrong with her being with Adam. Besides, David had never proposed, not in the two years they’d been together. Sorsha squared her shoulders and walked in the restaurant. Immediately Adam waved her over. There he sat, dressed in his perfectly pressed suit, across from his pearlwearing mother and equally well-dressed father. Suddenly Sorsha felt nauseous. “Right on time,” Adam said with a smile on his face. “Couldn’t be late for you.” Sorsha smiled and suddenly felt like they could see every fingerprint David had left on her body. “It’s so nice to see you again, Beth.” “You, too, Sorsha. Is everything set for the wedding?” “Just about. The reception is planned. I approved the menu with the caterer on Friday. My dress is ready and the bridesmaids have their appointments, from hair to nails. Everything is set for the rehearsal dinner on Friday.” Sorsha plastered on her smile. Let Beth pick that apart.
“Sounds like you have it all well in hand.” Carl Mills, Adam’s father broke into the conversation. Speaking with him was a rare treat. Usually he nodded and acted as if Sorsha wasn’t good enough to communicate with, much less join their family. “Of course she does. She knows what a fine man she’s getting,” chimed Beth. “My son is a very fine catch.” Sorsha patted Adam’s arm as if confirming the statement, although the nausea was getting worse. She couldn’t imagine what living with Adam would be like. He was such a momma’s boy. She started looking around the restaurant hoping to find something to focus on, instead of this middle-aged couple bragging about their son. Beth kept looking at Sorsha while touching the pearls around Beth’s sagging neck. In a few months the sag would be gone, thanks to her plastic surgeon. The Mills family couldn’t have less than perfection. The restaurant was getting crowded. She looked at the faces, busily wrapped up in conversations while some couples stared lovingly into each other’s eyes. Beth and Carl never looked at each other that way. She doubted Adam and she would ever hold those deep gazes. Something worse caught her eye from the corner table. It was David, sitting and staring directly at her. Their eyes met and Sorsha immediately looked down. Why in the world was he here? “Is something wrong, dear?” asked Beth. “Just looking for the lavatory. If you’ll excuse me.” Sorsha stood and the men did the same as she left the table. “I’ll be right back.” The moment Sorsha walked away, she knew David was watching her. She looked in his direction as she went through the maze of tables to the restroom. He nodded at her, but didn’t make a move to stand. There was no reason for him to be here. Even as she looked over at him, the deep brown in his eyes caught her and made her think of strawberries. He shouldn’t have left her. She went into the lavatory decorated in pink marble with lighting soft enough to make every woman look her best. She touched the gold-tone faucet and looked at herself in the mirror. Everything was falling apart. Her eyes were puffy from crying. Her skin still smelled of strawberries, even after another shower between work and dinner. It had to be a trick of her mind. His residues weren’t on her, marking her as his. There was only one reason for David to be here. He was trying to mess with her. She was under a lot of pressure. A gentleman would back off and let her get her life together. Although it was David’s wild side she preferred to that of the gentleman. The mirror showed her smile. Why couldn’t Adam make her smile like that? Why did Beth have to look at her with accusing eyes? She was torturing herself. Enough was enough. David’s little game wouldn’t work. She was stronger than this. Even though her eyes were tearing up again, there was no way she could end it with Adam now. She took a tissue from the box on the counter and dabbed the smears of make-up away. With everything back in place, she left the ladies room. David wasn’t waiting at the door as she’d expected, or maybe hoped. As she went back to her table, she saw him sitting, drinking a glass of wine. He kept his eye on her, but that was all.
“Are you sure you’re all right?” asked Beth as Sorsha took her seat at the table. “You look a bit pale.” “Fine. My nerves have just been bad lately. I want the wedding to go perfectly. This is so important.” So important that she couldn’t let David interfere. “I want to make Adam proud.” “Weddings are important, dear. This is how friends and family will judge your performance. I remember after my wedding, everybody had to have a candlelit heart behind the preacher.” She could imagine it, standing in front of all those people looking at Adam’s face and exchanging vows. Everyone would be listening and watching. The vows were ‘till death do you part.’ Sorsha looked over at David. He’d never enjoy a big formal wedding. Theirs would’ve been on an exotic beach somewhere with bare feet and the sound of the ocean echoing in their ears. Her dress wouldn’t be formal, just something that slid off easily when the ceremony was over. She’d be in bare feet with the sand between her toes. Oh, what was she doing? This had to stop. “I’m so glad you two chose to get married in our church.” Beth spoke as if she’d bought the place. “There are so many non-denominational churches springing up everywhere. A wedding should take place in a church with a solemn atmosphere.” “In a perfect place,” whispered Sorsha as she looked back at David. “With a perfect person.” She sighed and compared Adam and David. They were total opposites. Adam was soft with short hair and business first attitude. David had long hair and thought she was his world. “Till death do us part,” she looked at Adam again. “Could you order me a drink?” The rest of the dinner was filled with chitchat about hot stocks on the move and the underestimated bond. Even her wedding was not interesting enough to keep their attention for too long. Perhaps they considered it lowbrow. By eight-thirty it was over and Adam walked Sorsha to her car. At the same time she saw David get up to leave. He was going to stick with her like glue. It angered her and excited her at the same time. Part of her wondered if David would sneak into their old bed tonight. His soft touches would have her mad with passion before she woke. It would be nice to wake in his arms. “Earth to Sorsha,” Adam touched her arm. “I’ll call you tomorrow.” “That would be nice.” She grabbed the bag from the passenger’s seat. “Here’s some wine for your mother. I can’t believe I left it in the car.” “Not a problem.” He looked at the wine. “I suppose this will do. Maybe next time we’ll both go out to pick her up something.” “Sure.” She jumped as Adam tried to kiss her goodnight and part of her didn’t want David to see. At least Adam wasn’t inviting her to his place tonight. His parents were there and this was a good time to part company. Sorsha slid her Camaro into drive and went through the parking lot onto the main street. A pair of headlights followed, matching every turn she made. It was David. She
expected him to pull in the driveway behind her as he’d always done. Instead he drove by and parked on the road, one house over. “What are you up to, David?” There was no movement in his vehicle. He seemed content to sit in there and watch her house from a distance. For a moment, she sat there watching him watch her. There was no telling what his plans were. She wiped sweaty palms onto her skirt and shut her eyes. This was too much. He shouldn’t torment her, knowing her promise to Adam. There was no way they could have a repeat performance of yesterday. Sorsha got out of the car and stood in the driveway, wondering if that would force him to come out. He didn’t move, even when she walked to the end of the driveway with arms crossed over her chest. A little curiosity would make for wild dreams tonight. Secretly, she hoped he would come in once she’d gone to bed. It was wrong, but she wanted him again. In fact, she wanted him to force her—at least her conscience would be appeased while the rest of her was free to enjoy the pleasures he provided. She let herself inside the house, trying to shake the feeling of him on her body. This was her house now. There was no reason for him to come here. In fact, he had no right to park on the street waiting and watching to see who paid her a visit. “You have no right to make me feel this way,” she said in the empty house. “No right.” Although she didn’t have David’s cell number, he had called her yesterday. She pulled out her cell and scanned through the numbers, finding his and hitting send. At first she didn’t think he’d answer. Then she heard his voice. “Hi, Sorsha.” The sound was deep and sexy. “What’s up?” “Why are you following me?” It was an effort to sound furious after hearing his voice. “You have no right.” “I told you,” he sounded exasperated. “There are some bad guys after me. I’m afraid they’ll come after you too.” Great, back to this story, although she was curious about the scar on his chest. “Okay, talk to me. Tell me why you ran off.” “Just a minute.” Outside she heard a car door slam shut. “Did you change the locks after I left?” “No.” Sorsha always told herself to, but never had the heart. “Do you still have your key?” “I’ll be right there.” She expected to see headlights filling the yard. Instead she heard the back door. David was home. She started to shake and wondered what possessed her to call him. For a year she had waited to hear the door unlock and have David return to her. A year was a very long time to sleep in an empty bed. “Hi, honey, I’m home.” David stepped into the kitchen. Tears filled her eyes. “You’re late.” She couldn’t move, her body was frozen by his presence. He had come home and a million deja vous hit her from dreams and fantasies in which he’d finally come back to her.
David crossed the room and wrapped his arms around her. It felt so good to be held. The year they’d been apart melted away, but she couldn’t remove the sting of his absence, of coming home to the empty house. “Why did you leave me?” She crumpled against him. Instantly, he picked her up, cradling her in his arms and carried her to the couch. His couch, the one he’d left along with the dining room table and their bed. “I’ve done some terrible things.” He kissed her forehead. “It’s important that you hear them.” She didn’t care what he’d done. The only thing that mattered was that he’d left without explanation and that the pain never went away. She doubted it would ever leave. The wound on her heart might heal but there would always be a scar. “Go ahead.” She gripped his shirt, feeling the wadded cotton in her palm. “Tell me what you need to.” “You know I told you that I did construction. Once in a while I’d help with the demolition side. That wasn’t completely true.” He swallowed hard. “I did help with a lot of buildings going up. Most of it was with estimates. I looked at the floor plans and modified them.” “I thought architects did that.” “They don’t when the buildings are supposed to have an accident. That was the other side of my job. I started working for Dominick when he needed a building taken down for an insurance claim. I’d been doing this for eight years when we met. At first the buildings were already standing. They would belong to him or an associate. Eventually he had me put in wiring that would be easy to rig. Little things like that. I moved from Chicago to here, so there would be no ties between Dominick and me. He thought the Feds wouldn’t look out of state for the lighter.” “You’re an arsonist?” Her stomach churned as if Beth had been speaking to her. “It gets worse.” He took a deep breath. “Do you remember that business trip I took? We’d been going out about a year and a half. I said I wanted to check out a job down in Texas.” “Sure. I was terrified you’d take the work and leave.” In fact she’d lost a week’s sleep over it. “I lit up a place down in Houston. It was a warehouse, for goodness’ sake. No one was supposed to be inside. Apparently a few runaway kids had taken residence in the warehouse. I didn’t know.” She shut her eyes. “Were they inside when you set it on fire?” “Yes.” He hugged her tightly against his chest. “I didn’t know. I heard it on the news before I left town.” Tears filled his eyes and he turned his face from her. “One girl died. She was only seventeen.” Sorsha leaned up and pulled his face against her chest, holding him softly, letting his tears flow. David was such a strong man. She’d never imagined he could cry, much less weep in her arms. “I swear I didn’t know.” His crying slowed. “I couldn’t live with what I’d done and I couldn’t tell you.” She remembered him growing distant the last few months before he disappeared but he never let on that was wrong. He kept to himself a little more but nothing else.
“I went to the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms. Eventually they led me to the FBI. I cut a deal with them for testimony, but Dominick found out. That’s when I left town. He knew I was going to testify against him. The FBI kept me in hiding until the trial.” He turned his head and wiped his eyes. “It went on for months. When it was over, one of Dominick’s boys caught me heading out of a restaurant.” “The scar on your chest?” He nodded. “I don’t know how many guys were involved. One guy was picked up but he never turned on Dominick. They managed to give me two shots in the lung.” Sorsha pulled off his shirt, jerking it over his head. There was the jagged line, marring the perfect chest. She touched it and realized how close he’d come to dying. Her body trembled and she leaned down and kissed the mark. “I probably deserved to be shot.” He shrugged and pulled her up to face him. “I’ve done a lot of bad things in my life.” His thumb traced her jaw line as he looked into her eyes. “I grew up poor, but found out I had a knack for putting things together. I can take stuff apart, figure out simple chemical compositions, even create some hellacious bombs. None of those are admirable qualities, but at sixteen I thought I was awesome. I did small time stuff until I turned twenty. That’s when I started working for Dominick.” She didn’t want to hear about his seedier side. The man she’d fallen in love with wasn’t capable of hurting anyone or anything, although he had a body that could plow through a wall. She’d always considered him smart—even talented—in the way he looked at things. Never had she imagined he could be a part of something as violent as arson. “Why didn’t the FBI prosecute you?” “I really don’t know. I didn’t ask them not to. Michael stepped in and granted me immunity in exchange for my testimony.” She held him tighter as if she was afraid he’d disappear if she let go. In fact, that’s what he was trying to do. Dominick was back and that meant he would be leaving again. “Why didn’t you call? I would run home every night expecting to hear from you. For months all I did was wait for you to come home. Every night I went to bed alone and hoped.” “I wasn’t supposed to contact you. If Dominick’s guys found you, you’d be in danger. The FBI had you under surveillance during Dominick’s trial. They hauled him in pretty fast and since he only contacted me by phone and through wire transfers, they didn’t have a clear address on me. I’m sure that’s changed by now. You need to leave town.” He pressed against her again. “I searched for you, kept tabs. For some reason, I’d thought you’d move.” “I was getting ready to.” She looked around the house at the stacks of boxes. “I’m moving in with Adam.” She wished she could take back the words as soon as they’d left her mouth. “I’m sorry.” David recoiled. He pushed her away and walked across the room as if Adam’s name had stung him physically. She didn’t blame him. He’d come back home expecting everything to have changed but her, when the opposite had happened. “I understand.” He spoke softly. It was strange coming from the tall man. “I can’t ask you to leave him now. Yesterday I thought I could give you a life. Today I don’t even know if I have one.”
“Let the Feds hide you. There’s no reason for you to risk yourself waiting outside my house.” “Not a logical reason.” He looked around the house. “It’s good to be back here. I haven’t felt at home since I left.” “The landlord asked me if I wanted to buy the place.” She touched the couch and thought about the number of times they’d curled up on it together, watching a movie. “I didn’t see any reason to.” “You could’ve moved Adam in here.” Sorsha nearly laughed at that one. There was no way she wanted Adam here, not for a night—not for a minute. This had been home for a couple named Sorsha and David. No matter how much she hated David, she couldn’t replace him with Adam. All she could do was start over. “No. You and I both know that wouldn’t be right.” She went to the refrigerator and pulled out a bottle of tequila. “Want some?” “I thought you hated to drink.” “I’ve learned a lot in the last year.” She grinned and twisted off the lid. “You’d be surprised how much I drank after your disappearing act.” She pulled out two shot glasses. They were his. The outside had little Celtic symbols. She never really liked them but couldn’t throw any of his things out after he’d left. “Aren’t you afraid Adam will stop by and catch you drinking with your old boyfriend?” “You’d like that wouldn’t you,” she grinned, but he didn’t smile back. Everything had gotten too serious. “You saw his parents. They’ll stay the night at his place and dissect me all night.” “He might sneak away for a little midnight romance.” “That’s something you’d do, not Adam.” This time David smiled. “Besides, Adam knows not to touch me here.” She turned up the shot and drained it, grimacing at the taste. “You’ve never let him in our bed?” David raised an eyebrow. “Not once?” She looked up and met his gaze, although it was hard when he wasn’t wearing a shirt. “That was our bed. I’d never let another man in it.” “You let another man inside you.” He touched her face, sweeping the blond locks to the side. “Adam’s touched you. I can feel it—like a trespasser. I think I felt it the first night you slept with him.” “Like you haven’t been with another woman since you left me?” She pulled away, feeling as if she had cheated on David. “I’m sure you’ve had your share.” “No. I haven’t been with anyone since the first time we went out on a date. For some reason, I thought we were still together.” He looked into her eyes, his eyes perfect brown, piercing into her thoughts. “I guess I should’ve known better.” “You never called or wrote or anything. I got one stinking email from you and that’s it. The first night, I called the police, the hospitals. I didn’t know if you were dead—then I get this stupid email saying you were sorry. That was it. Not even an explanation or an ‘I’ll be back.’ Nothing.” “I didn’t want to say goodbye and I wasn’t sure if Dominick would kill me or not.” He drained his shot and refilled both their glasses. “I was hoping it would take a month then I could come back and sleep on the couch until I’d won you back.”
“You’re a jackass.” She emptied the shot again. “You should’ve been honest with me. I would’ve stuck by you through anything. You were my world.” Tears filled her voice and she felt her bottom lip tremble. “You were everything to me.” “I guess Adam is, now.” She reached out and grabbed David’s arm, noticing how the corded muscles felt beneath her hand. “Adam will never hurt me the way you did.” “That’s because you don’t really love him. You’re just using him as a pair of arms when you’re scared.” David seemed to look into her soul. “I bet you even think of me when you fuck him.” Sorsha hung her head. It was true she thought of David every time Adam touched her. In fact she dreamed of him at least once a week. She couldn’t admit it though. It was hard letting go. She couldn’t go through the pain if he ran out on her again. “Listen. It’s getting late. I’m going to turn in. You’re welcome to sleep on the couch tonight. In fact, you could move in here as soon as I’m gone. All this shit is yours anyway.” “I probably shouldn’t.” He filled his glass again and seemed to reconsider. “But it might be nice to wake up here. Thank you.” “I’ll get you some linens.” She went to the closet in the hall and pulled out a blanket and a spare pillow. The house had three bedrooms but only one bed. She used one room for an office. The other only held a few boxes and an old writing desk. This house would’ve been perfect for a family. She’d always imagined having a boy and a girl. There would be big Sunday breakfast, and dinners around the table where they could discuss their day. She’d imagined their son would have David’s eyes. None of it was going to happen though, not one damn bit of it. “Here you go.” She put the pillow on the couch. “Make yourself at home. Just say goodbye before you leave this time.” She looked up at him and felt her voice waver. “Please don’t leave without saying goodbye.” She went into the bedroom and shut the door. For a year she’d been sleeping in this bed alone, wishing he’d come back to her. Now there was only a single wall separating them and she couldn’t be in his arms. There wasn’t much she could sleep in. It had been her habit to go to bed in one of the three t-shirts he’d left behind. She pulled the gray one out of the drawer and slid it on. It felt nice against her skin, although it no longer carried his scent. It smelled of fresh laundry and not the cologne he wore. “Damn it, David.” She slid under the covers and tried to think of Adam. He was at home, probably listening to his mother run off a list of his bride-to-be’s faults. Luckily her in-laws lived out of state. That meant only holidays would be hell. Adam was a good guy—and what a great father he’d make. She could imagine him coaching their son in baseball, while she cheered in the background, driving around one of those minivan things and wondering how many bags of groceries she could stick in it. Suddenly her heartbeat went crazy. She was panicking and it wasn’t even her wedding day. It felt like she was suffocating. Hearing him correcting her every night of her life, hearing him correct her in front of the kids—then his mother would start in on her inadequacies.
Adam would want his children to turn out just like him. Nothing would be frivolous. The kids wouldn’t be allowed to read comic books or go see the newest movie. Their lives would be filled with accomplishments, and things they didn’t care about. They would learn that family was for show and not for the emotions that really mattered. Sorsha jumped out of bed and ran into the living room. She needed David. He was the love of her life. She was supposed to be in his arms, not that robotic twit who worried over his ties and stocks. “David?” She looked on the couch but he wasn’t there. “David?” She went to the kitchen, checked the bathroom, but there was no sign of him. “You left me again, you stinking bastard.” She collapsed on the couch, crying. The last thing she asked him was not to leave without saying goodbye and it was exactly what he’d done. She should’ve known better. He was a waste. This was the reason she was marrying Adam. He wouldn’t leave her and even if he did, there’s no way he’d destroy her the way David had. She wasn’t going to go through that again. Bring on the damn minivan. “David, why did you have to go?” She touched the pillow he hadn’t used. “Damn it.” “I’m right here.” She looked up and saw him coming in the back door. He was wearing his shirt again and had a quizzical expression on his face. In the midst of her tears, she hadn’t heard him come inside. “Where were you?” “I was looking out the window and saw a Fed car pull in front of mine. I went out to talk to them.” He put his arms around Sorsha. “Is that my t-shirt?” “A girl has to sleep in something.” She felt her cheeks heat as she realized how short the shirt was on her. She tried to pull the edge lower, but it was no use. “Don’t.” He reached the hem of the shirt and slid his hand beneath it, caressing her thigh. Sorsha felt electricity pulse through her. “Would you like to share our bed tonight?” “Oh, Sorsha.” He shook his head and took his hand off her thigh. “I have some bad news.” He kissed her cheek. “I can’t stay tonight. Some of Dominick’s guys have been spotted nearby. The Feds said it would be best if I got out of here. They’ll be watching your house tonight so you should be safe.” “You’re leaving?” She should’ve known. It all came down to stability. Adam was stable. “You could come with me.” The brown in his eyes looked black in the dimly lit room. His hair was mussed with the slight scent of alcohol. The best part was the way his t-shirt fit a little too tightly against his muscles. She thought about it and looked down at the ring on her finger, at the promise she’d made to another man who was too predictable to run off in the middle of the night, or be chased by men wanting to kill him. It would be tempting to run off with David but the shock of walking into the living room and not finding him there brought all the pain back. “No. I guess I’ll stay here. I’ve got a wild bachelorette party tomorrow.” But would it be so wrong to see David once more before she got married? “Maybe you could stop by and give the girls a show.”
“Can’t cancel that.” The way he said it made Sorsha wonder if he was talking about the party or the wedding. “Will I see you again? I mean, once I move, you won’t be able to stop by for a visit.” Sorsha felt like she was losing him all over again and it was tearing her apart. “Just once more before Saturday?” “The Feds want me to hide out, but I think I’ll have to see you one more time before the wedding.” He looked determined and Sorsha wondered if he’d kidnap her on her wedding day. “I’d like that.” A car went down the street, making them jump. It was time for him to leave. Both of them knew it, but instead of letting go Sorsha held on to him. He didn’t seem to be in a hurry to leave either. “Will you call me so I know you’re safe?” Sorsha breathed in his scent, wondering if it would be the last time she held him. “Sure.” He pulled away and took a step to the backdoor. Something stopped him. He turned to look at her with darkened eyes, full of fire. She couldn’t move, even as he approached. In one fluid movement, he pulled her into his arms, forcing her head back and covering her mouth with his. She responded. There was no thought of being deserted or of Adam, only the mouth hungrily devouring hers. His tongue darted inside, touching hers in the most intimate way. Her legs parted and he slid between them. His denim-covered thigh rubbed against her, working her panties over her delicate places. The friction was erotic and in that moment she couldn’t deny him anything. “Oh, David.” “Promise me you won’t let Adam touch you,” he whispered into her ear. “Give me until Saturday to get this mess worked out.” “But…” “No. Promise me.” His teeth nibbled at her ear. “I want you to promise me. Adam can’t touch you until the wedding.” His hand slid up to her breasts, instantly making her nipple harden. She wanted more than feeling him through the fabric. Just one more night, and she would be okay. If she could just feel him inside her once more… “Promise me.” “I promise,” she breathed. “I promise.” **** David went out the back door and crept around the house to the street. He slid inside his car as another set of lights filled the road. Immediately, he backed into a driveway then started in the other direction. “Please don’t stop at Sorsha’s,” he whispered. The car didn’t stop but slowed enough to make him realize who was in the car. It had to be Dominick’s boys. They were casing the place. Part of him wanted to stay and protect her, but that would only make matters worse. Besides, the Feds were on it. As he drove by, he nodded at the agents in the sedan.
Unfortunately, the guys in the other car noticed him. The headlights that were creeping in front of Sorsha’s sped up, filling his back window. He gassed it and hit the rearview mirror, trying to move the blinding light. David realized he was in trouble as they gained, inching closer to him. Without slowing, he jerked the wheel hard left. He spun the car around, knowing only a desperate action would save him. The guys slowed up when they saw him spin, putting his car in line with theirs. It was a dangerous game of chicken, but these were paid boys. They wouldn’t risk their lives—at least David hoped not. The two cars came closer. David floored it, hearing the Mazda’s engine rev higher. It was going to be close. Dominick must’ve sent out word to kill him. That was the only way to explain why the car coming toward him wasn’t turning. David made the sign of the cross and shut his eyes. Any second, he would feel the impact running through him and crushing his car. They weren’t that far apart. Then he heard tires squeal. He opened his eyes as the sedan turned, lost control, and skidded through a yard. This was his chance. He accelerated and left the side road, merging in with the regular flow of traffic. Here he slowed, figuring even Dominick wasn’t angry enough to go after him with this many witnesses. He had to head downtown. The Feds had a room set up for him under the name Markowitz. Tomorrow he’d switch vehicles. For now he would find solace in the little motel room. It would’ve been nicer to stay with Sorsha. She would’ve let him have his way with her again. The look in her eyes was unmistakable, a sweet mix of want and need. The risk was too great though. For them to be together, even for a night, he’d have to get her out of there. The motel was located on the seedier side of town. He made his way through the progression of red lights and the few hookers who still hung out on the corners. Ahead he saw the motel with the blinking neon light flashing “Vacancy.” The parking lot had a few cars. He pulled in, then went to the office. An old guy with a beard and a stained shirt handed him a key. It was on the second floor. That should work just fine. David went up the first set of metal stairs, located on the outside of the building. From there he went down the covered walkway to his room. The accommodations weren’t the best in the world, but at least there were no hookers or dealers outside. He opened the door to a small room. It smelled a little of stale air but it seemed clean enough. Sorsha was probably waiting for his call. He took out his cell phone and dialed. “David?” she asked as soon as she picked up the phone. The tone of her words frightened him. “Is everything okay? Nobody has stopped by your house have they?” “Everything is fine. I was just worried. The car that came at you—was that Dominick’s guys?” “Sure was. See. I wasn’t making the whole thing up.” He wished he had. Living it was too hard and he didn’t want to go through it again. Another year of hell seemed like too much to endure to put Dominick away. The jail sentence wouldn’t amount to anything anyway. He’d control his empire from behind bars. “Where are you?” There was no anger in her voice, only regret.
David wished he could reach through the phone and take away that sound. Given everything that had happened, he wished he’d never gone away. Justice hadn’t been served and Dominick wouldn’t rest until David was in the ground. “I can’t say where I’m staying. The Feds have a room for me tonight, but I’ll be leaving tomorrow.” He sighed. “They’ll keep me on the move until I let them take me out of town. From there, they’ll keep me in a safe house until the trial, if there is one.” “When will I see you again?” she asked. “You said you’d come by to see me before Saturday.” “So you want to see me again?” He smiled. There was no way Adam could keep a hold on Sorsha. “Quit playing games.” “One day you want to see me, the next you’re ready to run down the aisle with suit boy.” David would never understand what Sorsha saw in that Adam, other than the fact that they were completely different. “I am marrying Adam.” Her voice wavered. “I’m just worried about you.” She made a sound between a laugh and a sigh. “Is it so bad to want one more kiss from an old flame?” “As for the kiss, any time, any place.” He shut his eyes remembering the taste of her. “If you were really worried, you’d leave town with me.” There had to be something he could say or do to convince her. “I have to make sure you’re safe. To keep me safe, you’d leave with me. It’s up to you, princess.” “Fine. Be an ass. Two can play at that game.” She laughed cruelly. “For every day I don’t see you, I’m going to screw Adam.” Every muscle in David’s body tensed. She was baiting him. As well as he knew Sorsha, she could match him move for move. They’d been soul mates from the first time he’d looked in her blue eyes. He shouldn’t be surprised that she knew what to say to make him nuts. “You already promised me that you wouldn’t before the wedding.” “I’m not breaking that promise. You just have to see me everyday for me to keep it.” She laughed again. “Every single day. That’ll teach you to run out on me.” “You’re evil.” David thought she was bluffing but didn’t want to take the chance. “You should know. You made me that way.” He probably had. When he’d met Sorsha, she was so innocent. For the first dozen times they’d made love, she’d had to have the lights off. A little trust and a slow hand had turned her into a tigress. “Fine. I’ll see you tomorrow.” A plan began to form in David’s mind. “I will definitely see you tomorrow.” “Why does that sound like a threat?” “Because it is one.” He’d have to put a few things together, but he’d make sure tomorrow night was one she wouldn’t forget. “I will be at your party tomorrow. Be ready.” “The party starts at seven at my house.” She paused, as if choosing her words. “Are you going to strip for me?” “No clues, my dear. Tomorrow night will be entertaining.” He thought about the timing. “I’ll be fashionably late. I don’t want you to think you’ve gotten out of our date just because I don’t arrive at seven.”
“Hey, think about me tonight.” Her voice dropped a notch to the sweet sultry sound that drove him crazy. “Will you?” “I always do.” That was the truth. He’d thought about her every night. “Promise?” “Promise,” then he added. “Will you think about me tonight? I mean really think about you and me? What we were? What we could be?” “I always do,” she replied. “It’s something I can’t help. I guess that’s why I’ve been pissed at you for so long.” “I am sorry, Sorsha.” If he’d known at sixteen what he knew now, he’d study to be a doctor or lawyer—someone Sorsha could be proud of. “I really am.” “I know. I’m sorry, too.” She groaned. “I can’t believe how messed up things have gotten.” “It doesn’t mean we can’t fix it. I still love you.” “I…” she stopped then groaned. “Goodnight, David.” He wanted her to tell him that she loved him too, but he’d take whatever he could get. “Goodnight.” David ended the call and sat back on the bed. She was incredible. He remembered on their one-year anniversary. She’d woken him with a blow job. Sorsha hadn’t always been such a sexual animal but she was a fast learner. Sometimes she could barely keep her passions in check. He couldn’t imagine her with someone like Adam. Of course he didn’t want to imagine her with anyone else. When he’d watched them at dinner, there was no chemistry, nothing. “I should’ve asked you to marry me two years ago.” He looked at the phone and fought the temptation to call her again. “I know how to win you though. I have to break through the logic.” Love wouldn’t bring her back to him. She seemed to think of love as a good way to get hurt. That little bit of cynicism was new. She used to believe in fairytale endings. He supposed that was another influence he’d had on her. It was her passions that would change her mind. The primal pull would make her come back to him. Certain things she couldn’t resist—but he had to do more, to teach her a few more tricks. They’d always had one argument, control. He liked to control in the bedroom, but she was an untamed animal when it came to lovemaking. When she got in a mood, he had to wear her down, before flipping her over and taking charge. Perhaps that would be the key. If he made her submit to him fully, she wouldn’t return to Adam. He could break through the pain and make her trust him again. Deep inside, he would bet it was one of her fantasies. Tomorrow was a challenge he looked forward to. He wanted her again. She was so beautiful. He felt a tingle at his balls. He should’ve taken her at the house. Sorsha wouldn’t have refused him. That was one reason he knew she didn’t love Adam. Sorsha may be wild but she was no whore. His cock stiffened. Tomorrow he’d give her a replay of the massage. Somehow this round had to be different though. If he were going to lose Sorsha, it wouldn’t be without giving it his all.
David reached down and touched himself. Tomorrow night he’d get her. If she went back to Adam, then it would be limping and with a tired and very satisfied body. He smiled at this. His cock ached, and pressed against his jeans at the thought of her. She was so beautiful, and responded at the slightest touch. He licked his lips remembering her taste, that sweet salty taste. He wished he’d brought a change of clothes, something to fix up. Tomorrow he’d sneak back to the apartment he’d rented and get something to wear. Sorsha liked his cologne. Sorsha liked a lot of things. The image of her orgasm filled his mind. The look on her face as she rocked back and forth with her breasts shaking at his thrusts. He liked her best on her back although there were advantages to taking her from behind. He unzipped his pants and freed the bulge. Tonight he would take matters into his own hands. Tomorrow he would show Sorsha what a year of pent-up frustration would do. “I think I need to take control this round, little lady.” David’s cell phone started ringing. Without checking the number he answered the call, hoping it was Sorsha. All he wanted was to sweep her out of here. They could go someplace exotic, maybe Belize. “Hello?” “Where are you hiding?” Dominick’s gruff voice greeted him, disturbing his pleasant mood. “What, having trouble putting a bullet in my brain?” He let go of his cock and sat up in bed. This was the perfect ending to the day. “I heard you were visiting an old girlfriend. I saw her. She’s a pretty little thing, all that lovely blond hair, and such a pleasant voice. Did you know I called her house? We didn’t speak long.” “What the hell do I care?” David’s heart hammered in his chest. They were going to go after Sorsha. “She’s marrying some rich fuck. Maybe you could do me a favor and get rid of him instead.” “She’s not interested in the charming David Stafford? That’s hard to believe. Are you losing your touch?” “Well, I gave up a year of my life and she wasn’t willing to wait for my return. Apparently Adam isn’t the type to run off without a warning.” David tried to sound calm as he thought about another year of hiding. “How about I don’t testify again and we both walk away from this? I’ll tell the Feds I made the whole thing up.” “Too late. You’ve made this personal. Do you have any idea what I went through? They did a fucking cavity search, fingerprinted me, hauled me off like common street trash.” He screamed into the phone. “I am better than that. Then I’m sitting in a urinescented gray cell and a lawyer tells me it’s for the job in Dallas. That the lighter turned me in.” Dominick took a moment to bring himself under control. “People like you disgust me, Stafford. I took care of you then, like a mongrel, you bit the hand that fed you.” “You knew those girls were in the warehouse and sent me in.” David rubbed his eyes remembering the smell of the warehouse, the sound of the metal door closing. The girls had hid from him, probably afraid that he’d turn them in.
“What makes you think I knew?” he growled. “I wasn’t there. You were the last one in the place.” “Because I found one of your imported cigar butts on the floor before I lit it up. Besides, I know how thorough you are. You have guys staking out a place for a month before it’s ordered to be lit. You knew.” “One little runaway whore and you’re ready to throw me to the wolves.” “She was a person.” This was going nowhere. “Dominick, I’m not going to argue the finer points of life and death, but I will tell you this. If you agree to drop the hit on me then I won’t testify. It’s the best deal I can offer.” “Only your blood will do, Stafford, and this time they’ll go for the heart.” The line went dead, leaving David holding the phone and wondering what he could do to make everything right again. He had to consider Sorsha. All he wanted was to play house, not hero.
Chapter Five When David pulled the loaner Chevy across the road from the bachelorette party, he didn’t think anyone would notice his car mixed with the line of vehicles. In fact, the Feds didn’t even look up. The two men in the unmarked car were facing each other as if engrossed in a conversation. It didn’t make David feel overly confident in their abilities. Tonight would be his last chance with Sorsha, so he was going all out. Every fantasy he’d ever had, he’d try tonight. The things he’d been afraid to pursue, he’d do to her. It was going to be a long night. He got out of the car and crossed the street. The night air was chilly. He liked that. It felt clean and moist, making him take a deep breath. The motel had been stuffy, smelling of old carpet and disinfectant. This morning he’d gone back to the apartment he’d rented and picked up fresh clothes. There were still a few of his things there, but most of them were scattered across the floor. Dominick left a warning spray painted on the wall. The place had been ransacked. It wasn’t that surprising. His only concern was that he’d never get the deposit back on that place. As he approached the back door, he heard music. The women were cheering, making him go to the window for a peek. In the middle of the room was Sorsha, handcuffed to a chair with a nearly naked man dancing and shaking his package for her. A circle of women cheered him on as he leaned down and gave her a kiss then rubbed his groin against her leg. A pang of jealousy went through him. It looked like Sorsha had taken to role-playing a bit better than when they were together. The dancer also looked a little too close for his tastes. David watched for a bit longer, until the stripper was done and had uncuffed Sorsha. Several of the women stayed near the stripper, flirting with him. Sorsha went out of the room, towards the kitchen. This was his chance. He went around the house to the backdoor with his key out, but it wasn’t necessary. Sorsha had left the door unlocked and the curtains pulled back giving him a clear view of the kitchen. He smiled and watched her at the sink, rinsing glasses, more concerned with chores than her party. There was a subtle elegance to her. She wore jeans and a white blouse with the hint of her bra showing. Her long hair was down, cascading over her shoulders. She even wore make-up—he hoped for him and not the stripper. He opened the door and snuck up behind her, noticing the way her tight jeans hugged that lovely ass. She was beautiful and he was insane for leaving her behind. Everything about her drove him wild. “Hi, beautiful,” as soon as he spoke, he put one hand at her back. “David,” she turned and smiled. “I was wondering when you’d get here.” The look on her face told him that he was doing the right thing. “I want you to do something for me.” He ran his hand over her back, then down her arm. “Go in the other room and tell the girls that you have to run out on an errand. Make up something. Then come outside with me.”
“Why should I go outside?” She looked at him, suspicious, but too curious to say no. He’d give anything to make her submissive, at least once. “There’s something I want to give you.” And even more I want you to give me. “How long will I be gone?” She cocked her head to the side and it took all his willpower to keep from covering that mouth with his. He wanted to feel those lips against his, probe that little mouth with his tongue. “Not long.” He took her hand and slid her engagement ring off. “You won’t need this. Besides, I’ll have you back by the sink in no time.” He deposited the ring in the silverware drawer. “Fine. I’ll go let the girls know.” Sorsha left the room and another woman walked in. He didn’t know this one. She was probably a lady from work, a little bookish girl with shoulder-length brown hair and glasses. “Excuse me,” she said, and went to the freezer and pulled out ice. “Are you one of the strippers?” She raised an eyebrow and looked him over. “No. I’m an old friend of Sorsha’s.” “Okay,” started Sorsha as she re-entered the room. Immediately she stopped when she saw the other girl. “Hi Lisa. Are you having fun?” “Great party.” Lisa grew a little crooked smile. “Absolutely wonderful, although I’m a few dollars shorter now.” “I have to run out for some drinks,” Sorsha fidgeted then looked at David. “I’ll be back in a few.” “I’ll go. You shouldn’t miss your own party.” Then Lisa looked at David. “Never mind. Get your drinks while you’re still single.” She grinned again and gave David a wink. “Don’t mention this.” Sorsha looked scared to death. “I don’t want this going around the office.” “You know I can keep a secret. Just get out of here before someone else sees.” David took Sorsha by the arm. “Enough warning for me. Come on.” He led her out to the Chevy and opened the passenger’s door, leering a little too long as she got inside. Then he slid into the driver’s seat and started the engine. The street only had cars, no people. The Feds had gone on—he’d told them that he’d have a guest tonight. “Where are we going?” Sorsha leaned against the door, but faced him. “You said I wouldn’t be gone long.” “I’m taking you somewhere nice. Don’t worry about it. I’ll have you back, eventually.” “I don’t like this.” She complained but the look on her face showed excitement mixed with a little anticipation. “Those women are going to wonder where I went.” “Sorsha, as I see it, this night belongs to me.” He felt his erection rising. “I have a deal for you. If you will grant me tonight, I will not bother you or Adam again.” “And if I don’t grant you tonight?” Her words challenged but her hard nipples told him that she’d be willing to comply.
“I’ll show up at your wedding.” He reached over and petted one round breast. She didn’t refuse him—in fact she arched to his touch. “I might even come on your honeymoon.” “Are you threatening me?” Her eyes were darker—hungry—as they stared back at him. “No.” He pulled a bag from under the seat. “I’m proposing that you give me tonight. If I do anything to offend, tell me, but you have to agree to give me my fantasy. Let’s make your last time of freedom eventful.” She smiled at him and for a second he thought she’d deny him. Instead her eyes went over his body. “Okay. I’ll give you tonight.” David opened the bag and pulled out a black silk scarf. “Lean over to me.” She complied, leaning over too far and playfully biting the denim at his crotch. After a moment, he tied the scarf around her face, blindfolding her. “What’s this?” She didn’t try to remove it. “You don’t want me to see anything?” “It’s part of the game. You won’t deny me, will you? It’s part of my fantasy, part of our deal for tonight.” He leaned over and circled the hard nipple poking against the shirt with his lips. “Fine, but I think this is stupid.” “I don’t care. I want you.” He flicked her nipple softly, watching it distend fully against the cloth. “I want to control you. I need to do this.” He unbuttoned the front of her shirt, giving a cursory glance at the house they’d shared. No one had come outside, not even the stripper. When her white lace bra was exposed, sinfully portraying her nipples through the lace, he pulled into the street. “When can I look?” Her hands went to the scarf but didn’t remove it. “When I tell you to. I want you to enjoy tonight and only have me to blame. You’ll bear no responsibility.” They pulled onto the interstate and drove another fifteen minutes before taking an off-ramp. David looked for his turn. It was a quiet road with few houses—and the one he’d rented for two days. At end of the road, he found the gravel turn. It went for two miles, in completely deserted woods, before coming to the cabin. He stopped as soon as he found the turn and reached over to Sorsha. “I’m going to have some fun.” He unhooked her seatbelt and pulled her shirt free. Next he unfastened her bra, tossing it in the backseat with the shirt. When her bare breasts showed in the moonlight, he leaned over, giving each of them a kiss, sucking the tips into his mouth and watching the nipple harden again. “So you’re going to do me in a car?” she asked through ragged breaths. “No, not in the car but we are going to have a few rules.” He reached over tickling the creamy breast with light touches and delighting at the way she moved, wanting more. “Rules?” she managed. “Yes. You know I’ve always wanted to be the aggressor, the controller. Well, this is my fantasy. Now, rule one, no clothes are allowed in the cabin. Rule two, you will obey my orders.”
“No … no, I won’t. I’m not into that dominant/submissive crap and you know it.” She arched her back more, searching out his fingers. Her thighs drew tightly together. “I want to climb on top of you and fuck.” “You said you would grant me tonight. It’s just one night of pleasure and I’ll return you to your house and your wedding, if that’s what you still want.” He laughed. “I get tonight.” “Fine. I’ll play your game tonight.” She bit her lip. “In fact, it could be interesting.” “Put both of your wrists in front of you.” He fondled one breast as he spoke, delighting in the soft flesh. It had been too long since he’d touched the supple orbs and light brown nipples. They were so sensitive, so wanting. She complied, and as she put both her wrists in front of her, he felt his erection building. For the first time in the thousands of times they’d made love, she was compliant. He hooked the handcuffs on her wrists and continued driving up the long road to the cabin. He’d already been here earlier in the day to set things up. The only thing missing was her. Once they’d pulled into the driveway, he killed the engine and looked over at his blindfolded hostage. Her breasts looked so delicious, causing his mouth to water. One strand of blond hair covered the left breast, hiding away the nipple. “We’re here. Stay seated and I’ll come around for you.” He got out of the car then opened her door. As she stood, he picked her up and carried her to the porch. There was no way she could figure out where they were, eliminating any escapes while he slept. “I’m afraid you’re still overdressed.” He sat her on the porch and started removing her pants. “Wait, are we outside?” She sounded startled. “Don’t worry. No one can see.” He slid the denim down her legs, caressing each leg as the clothing fell away. She wore a pair of lacy panties, with just a hint of blond hair peaking through. Those weren’t the kind of underwear she’d have on normally. She’d gotten ready for him. The lacy panties were the last to go. To his surprise, she was shaved, with the smallest patch covering her delicacies. He fought the urge to attack her clit, right there on the porch. “Patience,” he told himself. Once he had her completely naked, he led her inside and removed the blindfold. She opened those deep blue eyes with him watching each feature, the long lashes, the hint of color in her eyes, and the fullness of her lips. “Where am I?” Her arms went up to cover her breasts, but the cuffs got caught in her hair. “That would defeat the purpose of the blindfold, wouldn’t it?” David touched her abdomen, letting his fingers trail to the soft hair between her legs. “So you’ve kidnapped me?” Her voice was soft and had the slightest eagerness. She looked around the room, taking in the wood plank floors, trying to be interested in the overstuffed sofa. He thought she was really looking for the bedroom. Then her gaze fixed on the stairs. “Yes. I’ve kidnapped you.” He licked his lips, wondering where to begin.
David removed his shirt. Sorsha seemed to enjoy this. Her gaze went over him several times, hesitating before meeting his eyes. There was desire in her, but also a hint of guilt. “This is a bad idea. I should go.” He looked at his naked lady and laughed. She moved one leg in front of the other, trying to hide that sweet little pussy he craved. Her hands went to her chest, trying to cover it. It didn’t hide everything but enough to annoy him. “I don’t think you understand. Once you agreed to go through with this, there’s no turning back.” He smiled. “I’m going to remove those cuffs. You can freshen up or whatever while I arrange a few things.” He slid the key into the lock and saw the way her eyes lit up. She wanted him. There was the small matter of control to deal with, but time and patience would be all it took. “You don’t think I’m a whore for this?” she asked him as he unlocked one wrist. “No, my sweet. You’re a woman who needs to trust and forgive. Your body knows who owns it. Deep down inside, you know it, too. You just have to quit fighting it.” He slid the key into the other cuff. “We were supposed to be together.” As soon as the cuffs fell to the floor, she kissed him, pulling him over to the couch like a desperate woman. He’d fallen for this before. Her aggressiveness was sexy, but there was still something he wanted, he wanted her to submit. Once he had her under his control, she’d never go back to Adam. “I know what to do with you,” he spoke between kisses. He picked her up and carried her to the master bedroom upstairs, then put her on the bed. There were scarves tied to the headboard where the wrought iron met the wood columns. He hooked each of her hands into the scarves and slid the knot tight against her wrists. Now there was no way she’d get away. “Come on. Hasn’t this gone far enough?” She asked with a strange smile on her face. “No. In fact, I think you want me to control you. I’m willing to bet it’s your most secret fantasy.” He smiled and tickled her little patch of hair. “Tell me, Sorsha, what do you think of when you masturbate?” “You,” her voice was barely more than a whisper. “It’s always you.” “What do you imagine me doing to you?” His finger slid to her breasts and her body moved under his hand. “Tell me. What deviant desires do you have? What secret things do you imagine me doing to you? I want to know.” Her face blushed. “Is it tying you up? Making you enjoy the things you fear? Making you give up power?” She bit her bottom lip again, then pulled against the scarves, as if testing their strength. When she realized she couldn’t get away, her legs squeezed together as if hiding a secret. David was willing to bet, she was covering how wet she’d become. He had to see for himself. “What are you hiding, my dear?” He smiled and lay next to her. “You will open for me.” He slid his hand between her thighs and spread her open. It didn’t take much effort. She seemed to be enjoying this scenario as much as he was. Once her thighs were open, her desire was obvious. His finger grazed her opening and it was dripping.
“Here’s the game. I’m not going to fuck you until you tell me that you’re mine.” He touched the opening again. “I also want you to call me ‘Sire’.” She shook her head no but said nothing. “Don’t worry. I intend to make you suffer until you do.” He touched her clit. “I was hoping you’d put up a fight. Glad to know I won’t be disappointed.” She slid her thighs closed as if challenging him. He met her request with a long passionate kiss. Her body responded instantly. Her tongue met his, dabbling back and forth. When her attention was turned, he slid his body between her thighs. He loved the feeling of her naked body against him, longing for his cock. Sorsha’s tongue danced against his. Her mouth, her scent—it was all driving him mad. He began with his second favorite act, nibbling at her breasts. First he brought the left nipple into his mouth, suckling, toying with the nipple between his teeth while his tongue flicked at the tip. He loved to make those tender tips swollen. She enjoyed it too, bucking against him, as if trying to push the breast farther into his hungry lips. Her wet snatch rubbed against his stomach as she wiggled beneath him. When the right one went into his mouth, she acted like a caged animal. She pulled against her restraints while her thighs opened completely so that he could smell the scent of woman, hot and sweet. That’s what he’d been waiting for. It was time for his favorite act, eating pussy. He slid between those beckoning thighs and took her clit between his lips. Her pulse was strong, throbbing through the tiny button that drove her wild. He’d watched her masturbate, rubbing the little button until she moaned. It was all about pressure, so he applied his tongue, hard, flicking and toying until she gasped for air. “Please fuck me,” she cried. “Please, David.” “Those aren’t the magic words.” He shoved his tongue into her hot hole wanting to taste her essence. It was sweet, meaty and scrumptious, but he couldn’t linger tonguing her. “Say I am yours, Sire.” He attacked her button again, letting his teeth graze the sensitive spot. She was ready to come. He knew it. Part of him wanted to back off and make her suffer but his plan hadn’t been to prolong the time before she came. It was time for a little hands-on attention. His fingers crept to the dripping snatch, rubbing her hard enough to make her twitch and turn. He sat up watching her body. She opened her eyes to see him, staring at her, and it seemed to finish her. She let out a moan, hard and long, then bucked again against his hand. **** She thought she’d won. Even as her breathing evened out, she thought he’d give up this game of putting her into submission. Surely he’d lay on top of her and fuck. Coming by his mouth and hand wasn’t the same as his cock. “Fuck me,” she said—and was surprised by the sound of her voice. “I want you inside me.” Sorsha looked up at him. He’d watched her come, memorized every movement she’d made, but it wasn’t enough for him. There was a strange expression on his face. It was more than hunger. “I’m not finished with you yet.”
David opened the drawer in the nightstand. With an evil smirk, he pulled out a teninch vibrator shaped like a penis. It was nearly as big as he, but in pink with a strange attachment at its base. Sorsha started to scoot away. Those things worried her. She’d never used toys before. David had always been a hands-on kind of guy. Putting something foreign in there felt wrong. Then the idea made her juices start again. For once, she liked being wrong or bad or whatever it was that made her open her thighs and wait to see what he’d do with that thing. “Nice to see you’re open to new experiences.” David flicked his tongue against her clit again. “I’ll do anything you say. This is your night. Better make it a good one.” The pink rubber dick slid into place. Sorsha was surprised at how good it felt. It wasn’t like a real cock but it filled her in a way masturbating couldn’t. She groaned a little as David moved it in and out. What tormented her was the way he watched her. It was so stimulating seeing his eyes lusting but seemingly afraid to take her. He’d always liked watching her. Many nights their play had started with her toying with herself and him whispering dirty things in her ear while she played. She rolled her hips against the dildo when he held up the remote control. As he slid the dick deeper, the little rubber tip went against her clit and the power came on. Her body jerked, she grabbed at the scarves holding her as concentrated pleasure ran through her. “David,” she cried in shock and delight. “Take it baby, come until you know who you belong to.” The feeling was wild and too intense. She came immediately, feeling the orgasm rolling over her body in a non-stop torrent. He wasn’t finished, those dark eyes stayed on her, making her come over and over. She moaned in pleasure, groaned for his cock. Her body convulsed repeatedly as he pushed the dildo in and out, over and over again, making her feel the vibration against her clit and inside her pussy. Sorsha pulled against the restraints, but she was tied tightly. There was nothing she could do as he kept pushing it inside her over and over. Each wave rushed over her, one following immediately upon the next. For a moment she thought she’d lose her mind. His rhythm slowed. For a second all she could feel was the vibrator on her clit, and sitting inside her body. When the movement stopped, she looked down. He’d taken off his pants, exposing his swollen cock. Then he started moving the vibrator, in and out, only to stop again. Her pussy still tingled, even when he removed the vibrator and set it on the bed. “Please fuck me,” she cried. “I’m begging.” “Not yet.” He started touching himself. “Then will you put it in my mouth?” She wanted to be his. More than that, she wanted him to control her but admitting that would go too far. Part of her wanted to be broken. “Please, Sire, let me suck your cock.” He eased to the top of the bed. She watched him, mouth open. Never had she wanted him in her mouth more than now. He was large and so hard she knew he’d explode. “Are you sure?” he asked. Sorsha nodded hungrily, extending her tongue, trying to lick it. He held it inches away, looking down at her again. It was his eyes that made her want to obey him. Her
deepest fantasy was to be subservient. She’d never told David. When she masturbated, she thought of him forcing her to please him. “Suck it good.” His voice sent chills through her body. “Yes, Sire.” He put it in her mouth. She stretched her neck upward, trying to take it all in. He was so big, she licked, lapping at the underside. He body bent lower and she took the head in her mouth sucking it like a lollipop. “That’s it,” he sighed. “Good girl.” His body rocked back and forth. She knew he was close. Sorsha craned her neck to take more of him in. Suddenly, he pulled from her mouth shooting his load over her breasts and stomach. It was hot and slick. She wished she could rub it over her skin but she was still tied. “Are you satisfied?” she asked coyly. “You know better than that.” He left the room and came back with a towel, cleaning the spew from her body. Everything was under his control and the idea made her want him more. She needed him to order her legs open, order her to take his cock in her pussy. No matter how many times she came, she craved his cock inside her and she was certain he knew it. In the next room she could hear water running. She couldn’t see much of the adjoining bathroom, only dim light. “Are you drawing me a bath?” “Don’t worry. Our games won’t end until you truly submit.” He left the room again and when he returned, she smelled the scent of a match. She leaned up and saw candlelight from the adjacent bathroom. He’d created the perfect romantic interlude. “I guess I’ll have to free you.” He untied her wrists, then led her to the bathroom. “Get in.” The scene was perfect. The tub was large enough for four people, much less her small body and that of her muscular captor. The tub rim was wide, as if the thing was built for sex. There was even a long mirror on the back wall, from the edge of the tub to the ceiling. She got in as directed, enjoying the hot water on her skin. Suddenly she realized how fatigued she was from his tortures. Muscles relaxed in the water while she watched David wash himself. “When will you fuck me?” She reached out to touch him but he grabbed her hands. “I want your cock inside me. I’m still not satisfied.” “I didn’t think you would be.” He produced a small purple rubber device, not more than four inches long. This had no cord. She was amazed that it was waterproof as he slid it beneath the water. Again her clit was the object of his torment. He hit a button on the outside bringing it to life. “Wash yourself,” he directed and tossed the cloth between her thighs. “I want to watch you bathe.” She picked up the washcloth and found lavender scented soap beneath it. As she lathered and rubbed it over her breasts, he started with the vibrator. She dropped the cloth and he removed the vibrator. “Bad girl. Pick it up and wash yourself.”
She gripped the cloth tightly as he ran the device over her clit. He was driving her mad. She gripped the sides of the tub as another wave hit her. The orgasm was strong, rolling over her and making her slosh the water in the tub. “Please, David.” “Say it.” He moved the device against her, not letting up, not letting her breathe against the assault on her senses. She came again while begging and crying out in pleasure too deep to control. “I can’t take it,” Sorsha tried to shut her legs but he wouldn’t have it. “I’ll make you pass out from coming if you don’t say the magic words.” He pressed the vibrator against her again. “Say it.” “David.” She pushed his hand away. “It’s too much.” She stood up and got out of the tub. Her knees trembled while she grabbed a towel from the rack and wrapped it around her. Deep inside she knew shouldn’t have gotten up but the feelings were too intense. “Naughty, naughty.” David’s bare feet padded across the carpet toward her. She hadn’t even made the bed when he jerked the towel from her body, leaving her naked and vulnerable again. For some reason, the fury in her belly re-ignited. He came up from behind. His arms wrapped around her waist while his cock pressed against her ass. It was hard again. A tingle went through her body at the realization. He was doing it to her again. “Say you’re sorry,” he whispered hotly into her ear. His grip was strong, not letting her body move an inch away from his damp flesh. “Say it.” “I’m not sorry.” She wiggled her ass, rubbing against him. “That’s not what I said.” He gave her ass a gentle smack. “Say you’re sorry.” She rubbed against his cock. “Make me.” He gave her ass another gentle smack. “Get back on the bed. I’m not finished with you.” Her body grew hot again. His hands reached up tickling her breasts with the lightest touches. Her nipples grew hard, sensitive. She eased back on the bed and rolled over. With a single finger he flicked one nipple. The sensation was surprisingly pleasant. She arched her body up for him to do it again. He did, sending erotic shivers through her, straight to her vagina. “Close your eyes.” He leaned up and kissed each eyelid. “Are you going to tie me up again?” “Even worse than you were before.” David kissed her cheek then followed her jaw line. “So much worse than before.” He retied each wrist then pulled something out of his drawer. When this was over she wanted a look in that drawer. She was even more curious when she felt leather being hooked around each ankle. Something was drawn behind her neck then her leg was raised. Soon she found both legs in the air, opening her, keeping her from closing her thighs to him. She was at his mercy. Cool air hit her pussy. When she opened her eyes, he was there between her legs, watching. She creamed. There was nothing about this situation she controlled and she liked it.
He went back to her breasts. The sensations became fiercer as he produced a bowl of ice cubes. He suckled each nipple, gripping them between his lips until they were almost sore, then applied ice, followed by a light pinch. “I’m begging you. Fuck me, Sire.” His response was to return to her pussy. There he applied the ice, then worked his tongue over the throbbing flesh, causing searing heat course through her. She looked down at him and wished she could grip the back of his head as he devoured her. “I’m going to get the vibrator out next, if you don’t say what I want to hear.” Her body was on fire. She needed to come and not by some hunk of rubber. She wanted his cock, but surrendering … She lost her train of thought as her world exploded in another orgasm. “I’m yours, Sire,” she breathed. “Please, Sire, take me.” He stopped licking. There she was open, unable to even close her legs or move to him. She liked it. She wanted to be fucked like that, on his terms, and when he leaned up, she knew she would get her wish. David rose between her thighs, his erection seemed larger than normal if that were possible. A little fear shot through her, adding to the raw passion burning through her body. His eyes looked animalistic and she knew that this ride was far from over. He eased himself onto her. She loved the weight of his body, the feeling of flesh against flesh as he rubbed his cock against the outside of her vagina. Even that was almost enough to make her come. When he finally sank his cock into her aching body, she came immediately. Her thighs spasmed against the restraints but he wasn’t finished. As hot flesh filled her, she knew this was the only man she could be with. Her orgasm seemed to excite him to higher levels. He wasn’t a gentle lover this time. His body took hers with a frenzy she’d only imagined. His hips slammed into hers, sending his cock deep—too deep—causing the most exquisite pain and pleasure as he pounded away. She couldn’t scoot back, couldn’t move to keep him out. He kept at her, stroking deeper, harder, as if his goal were to hollow her out. Sorsha cried out in ecstasy, grabbing wildly at the bonds that held her. He was a jackhammer taking what belonged to him. She came again, crying out, unable to control her reactions. The room seemed to melt. She looked up at his muscular body, consumed with desire, attempting with every stroke to get deeper inside. His face looked tense with concentration. Then his hot juices filled her, while he screamed her name. David collapsed on top of her. One hand slid to her ankle straps, releasing the strap. Her legs shook, tired, glad to lie flat on the bed for a few moments. David’s breath came hard while his heart thudded against hers. “I love you, Sorsha,” he whispered, breathless. “I love you, too.” There in the afterglow, she was complete. For a year she had longed for him, and now that he was back the thought of losing him terrified her more than ever. Could she trust him this time? From downstairs came a loud crash. David jerked upright. He reached for the scarves binding Sorsha, untying each. There was panic in his eyes. Another loud sound followed. Someone was coming upstairs. “Quick, get under the bed.”
At first, Sorsha thought this was part of the game, a little distraction, then she noticed the terror in David’s eyes. There was real danger downstairs. She got off the bed and slid under it. Meanwhile, David opened the window, grabbed his pants and slid under the bed with her. “Stay quiet.” He slid on his pants, fastening them moments before the bedroom door opened. Sorsha held her breath. All she could see were tailored slacks with expensive Italian shoes cross the room to the window. “We must’ve just missed him,” the voice was heavy, aged with whiskey and cigarette smoke. A second man entered the room. His clothes were just as nice, but he wore a long gray trench coat. She could see the hem of it as he circled the room and opened the closet door, poking around in the shadows for a clue. “Dominick wants them dead by the end of the week. That doesn’t leave time for errors.” The man walked to the window, then turned and seemed to go into the bathroom. There was the sound of a shower curtain being moved, followed by the slamming of cabinet doors. “We’ll get them. Our guy with the Feds said that Stafford is supposed to stay here for two nights, then go to the Sunspree for another night. If we don’t catch him here, we’ll get him in town.” “I’ll tell Vernon to have a guy wait down by the road, then I’ll call Boyd. He’s watching the little girlfriend’s house. “Sorsha” I think her name is. If we don’t catch Stafford at the Sunspree, then we’ll bring her in as a bargaining tool. Michael said he’s crazy about her.” David suddenly tensed up next to her. It was the name Michael. That was his contact with the FBI. That’s how they were able to keep up with David’s movements so easily. Michael may have even been the reason David got shot. “From the looks of this place, they didn’t go far. I found a pair of jeans on the porch.” The man laughed knowingly. “Look at the shit this guys into.” One of them sat on the bed making the mattress springs groan. “Kinky.” “Hell, I once dated a girl that liked a good spanking every time we did it. Not that I minded.” “You’re a perv. Let’s get out of here. They must’ve brought two cars down here. Get someone to keep an eye out and call us if anyone pulls up the drive. We’ll head down to the main road. When they show up, a quick couple of shots and we’re done.” “Do you think they saw us and went out the window?” “Possibly. It’s too dark outside to see much beyond the house. He could’ve run right past us. That’s why I hate nighttime hits in isolated areas. There’s too many variables.” His voice trailed away as they left the room. “It’s like skinning a cat, man. There’s always more than one way.” Another minute went by with neither David nor Sorsha moving. When the door shut downstairs, David motioned for her to stay in place while he slid out from under the bed. He left the room when a car started outside. The window carried the noise easily. It also sounded like they hadn’t driven far when the sound died. She eased from under the bed and looked around the room. The open window chilled her naked body. She didn’t want to be found like this much less photographed for a team
of police officers trying to solve her murder. Oh, what would Adam say? The newspapers would headline it “Woman Killed During Kinky Sex Romp.” The bed told a revealing story. Her bonds were scattered over the covers, and the open drawer displayed the sex toys they’d used. Shame filled her as she shut the drawer. Sorsha opened the closet and found a bag in the floor. It was David’s overnight things. There she found a shirt and slid it on, happy at least that nothing indecent was hanging out. “They’ve gone,” David came back in the room. “I don’t think they went far though. We need to get out of here.” He tossed her jeans across the room along with her shoes. “I got these off the porch. Get dressed. We have to move.” She slid on her pants and her shoes. Her hands were shaking. Life was supposed to be boring. She went to work, went home, and that was it. People weren’t supposed to be threatening her life. Then it struck her. She couldn’t go home. They were waiting for her. Whether she was ready to stay with David or Adam, she wasn’t sure, but she knew she couldn’t go back. “We have to leave now.” David grabbed her by the arm as soon as she was dressed and started leading her out the door. The cold air hit her body as they ran down the walk to the car. David had his travel bag, but they’d left everything else behind. He hadn’t even bothered to close the door. “This is going to be dangerous. I want you to get in the backseat, and lie in the floorboard.” David locked eyes with her. “Stay low.” “You think they’ll chase us?” Sorsha kept thinking about the scene in front of her house. “I know they will.” He opened the door. “Just stay low. I’ll try to get us out of here in one piece.” Sorsha got in the backseat and crouched as low as she could. David started up the car and gunned it, squealing tires as they tore down the road. Sorsha couldn’t see what was happening but she heard the engine rev higher and David mutter expletives while light filled the car, presumably from a following vehicle. He swung hard to the right. She was shoved against the passenger door. He was driving fast, too fast. The car lifted, then the wheels slammed back on the pavement. They made another turn and she felt the rear end slide, fishtailing as he fought to keep control. Sorsha peeked out the window, she had to. A Buick sedan was coming up fast on the driver’s side, with a man leaning out of the window pointing a gun at them. Ahead was a sharp hairpin turn. If they slowed down, they’d be shot but the current rate of speed would surely kill them. All at once she was thrown forward, as David turned the car toward the shooter in the other car. Metal scraped against metal as David jerked the car into the other lane. A hard jolt came from the back. Headlights bore down on them as they approached the turn. “Hold on,” he screamed, as he whipped the car hard to the left, bringing the passenger-side tires up off the road. They spun wildly, knocking her into the floor. She saw a glimpse of a lake then the rock that lined the bank on the opposite side of the road. Sorsha started screaming as a
gunshot rang loud enough to be heard over all the madness, shattering the glass on the passenger’s side window.
Chapter Six They drove until three in the morning. Sorsha wasn’t sure where they were. She was in the front seat now, her head resting against the door. The glass in the rear window was gone, forcing them to run the heater full blast to keep from freezing. Except for the breeze, it wasn’t too bad. David yawned and pulled into a rest area on I-40. They both were fatigued after the chase, but adrenaline had robbed them of the ability to sleep. It had also deprived them of conversation. Barring the radio, it had been a silent ride. “I can’t believe we’re still alive.” Sorsha stretched and looked over at David. His hair was mussed and a faint trace of facial hair dotted his jaw. “I’m an idiot. I can’t believe how much danger I put you in.” David shook his head. “I’m sorry. I should’ve let you go marry Adam. I had no right to come back into your life and bring hell with me.” “What?” Tears filled her eyes. After everything that had happened it sounded like he was going to abandon her again. “If you loved me, then you’d want me. The circumstances wouldn’t matter.” She crossed her arms over her chest. “Did you just want a quick romp with me before you headed off again? Is that it? A one for the road kind of thing?” “That’s not it. I just want to give you the best life possible, even if it’s with another man.” David rubbed his eyes. “What I’ve done to you isn’t fair. You didn’t ask for this.” “You have a lot of gall walking into my life and turning it upside down. I’ve given up everything for you.” Tears streamed down her face. “You’re not backing out of my life now. Losing you nearly killed me and, as soon as I recover, you come traipsing back. My emotions aren’t for you to play with.” David looked at her. “I don’t know what kind of life I can give you under the circumstances. The last time, this mess took months to resolve, and I still got shot. It sounds like my contact at the bureau is working for Dominick. I may never be able to come out of hiding.” “Fine then.” She looked out the window. A woman about her age got out of a minivan and took her sleepy daughter into the restrooms under the glaring streetlights. That’s what she wanted from David—a home and family but she was starting to think he’d never give her those things. “If you don’t love me enough to stick this out together, then I’ll go home.” “You can’t go home. They’ll kill you.” He grabbed her shoulders and she saw tears building in his eyes, and wondered how much longer it would be before he ran away again. “Don’t you understand? This time I’ve dragged you down with me.” “Then deliver me to Adam,” she spat his name. “That’s what you want to do anyway. You’d rather his hands be on me than yours.” David’s eyes glared at the remark. Without comment, he pulled back into the traffic on the interstate. Despite being so close to the man she loved, she felt completely alone. There weren’t many cars on the road at the hour. Sorsha kept her gaze out the window, feeling the car accelerate. She was sure they were well above the speed limit but wasn’t going to comment on it or even look over to check.
The next exit said Greensboro. He eased off the interstate, found a lighted sign for a motel and pulled into a Comfort Inn. There were a few cars in the lot but no one was checking in, at least she didn’t see anyone inside the glass enclosed lobby. Was this the place he’d leave her, she wondered? “Stay here.” He sounded angry as he slammed the car door and went inside. She considered getting out of the car and going to the lobby. There’d be a pay phone. She could call Adam and he’d pick her up, but what would she tell him? The truth was too horrible. She’d betrayed him, and just a few days before their wedding. What kind of person had she become? Agreeing to marry a man she didn’t care for was bad enough, but betraying her heart and returning to him would be horrible. There was no way she would let Adam touch her again. “I wish you really loved me, David,” she whispered to the glass. “Then you’d be with me no matter what happened.” The tears wouldn’t stop on her face. It wasn’t even the betrayal against Adam that made her cry. Losing David again would make her insane. She didn’t want to go through it again. The glass doors of the lobby opened and out walked David. Every muscle in his body seemed tense, bulging beneath his shirt as if he were ready to tear something apart. His eyes were too dark as well. He usually got that look when he was thinking. David came back to the car and drove to the rear of the building. He parked in the shadows. They sat and looked at the parking lot for a few minutes. Sorsha wasn’t sure why, but kept quiet. Finally he opened his door and motioned for her to follow. The two of them went in the back glass doors, using a key card to get inside. From there he led her to a door marked one-thirty-four. She went inside behind him, unsure of what to say. This could very well be the break up she’d dreaded for a year. “I want to know something now, Sorsha.” David shut the door and slid the chain into place. He turned his back to the door, and looked at her with those brown eyes. The same ones that had watched her in ecstasy, and now looked as if they were in pain. “Do you intend to go back to Adam? Tell me the truth. Don’t spare my feelings. I need to know.” Sorsha sat on the bed with its loud floral pattern and looked around. The ceiling had water stains, and the carpet had dark discolorations from who knows what. She was trying to focus on anything but David. Still, when she looked up, he held her eyes, waiting for the answer. She thought about it. Part of her wanted to say yes just to hurt him. It wasn’t true though. There was no way she’d go through with the wedding now, much less allow that robotic creep to touch her again. “Even if you decide to leave me, I’m not going back to Adam. It wouldn’t be right for either of us. I don’t love him.” Tears started building in her eyes again. “I thought you knew that.” “I have one more thing to ask you. Please answer honestly. I know I don’t have much to offer you right now, but if I’m going to fix this mess I have to know I’m doing it for more than just me.” He swallowed hard then looked at the floor. “Will you marry me?” It took her a minute to register his words. Did he just ask me to marry him? she thought. Sorsha went to him, pushing him against the door. A million emotions flowed through her as well as an answer, resounding in her ears. “Yes, I’ll marry you.”
She kissed him passionately. His mouth was tender, touching her lips more softly than earlier that day. Gently he pulled her shirt off her body and tossed it to the floor. Her pants followed. He wasn’t aggressive this round. The clothes fell away like whispers. “Promise you won’t leave me again,” she said as his lips touched her neck. “I need you to promise.” “I promise I’ll never desert you again.” He spoke with his mouth against her flesh, then stopped. His face came away from her throat and he looked her in the eyes. “I will have to leave in the morning. There’s something I have to do.” “What?” Fear coursed through her body. He was going to do something stupid, something he wouldn’t risk except for her. “I’m not going to put you through a year of hell or risk you getting shot. In the morning, I’m going to go to the FBI and get this mess finished. You’ll have a proper wedding and a safe life.” “I’ll go with you.” She leaned off the bed, trying to get up. “No. It’s too dangerous.” He pushed her back down. “I’ll book the room for the rest of the week. Next Monday, I’ll be back for you.” “I don’t want to be without you for a week.” She held his face, locking eyes with him. “Please, David. I don’t want to be without you.” Her pleas were for more than just a week. Something terrible was going to happen. She felt it. “Shh.” He kissed her again. “For tonight, everything is perfect. We’re together and that’s all that matters.” “But David…” He pressed his fingers to her lips. “Hush now. Tonight’s my night. Remember?” His hands were so soft and gentle on her breasts that his touch sent chill bumps over her flesh. Carefully, he eased her flat on the bed. Hot breath found each nipple, followed by little nibbles and flicks of his tongue. This time Sorsha could participate. She leaned into him, then rolled him onto his back where she finally got to kiss his body. Each line in his muscled chest was hers to touch. She explored his neck and licked down his body to his rigid cock. There she teased him, not taking him fully into her mouth. He wiggled beneath her, unable to take her tortures. Finally, she took him deep into her throat and he moaned, bucking his hips. When he could stand no more, he flipped her onto her back. “Sweet love,” his cock nudged against her vagina. “Sweeter pussy.” His hand reached below and she gasped. The fingers rested close but not touching her aching pussy. He massaged her thighs with nimble fingers while she shifted restlessly, trying to coax his fingers higher. Passion grew in her but it was different this time. In a smooth motion, he entered her and she felt complete. He rode over her and she wrapped her legs around his body. Through every stroke his eyes looked into hers. She gasped, as more than their bodies linked—their souls seemed to join. “Please don’t stop,” she breathed as he brought his length into her over and over again. The hunger in her was ready to burst. The pleasure was overwhelming, throbbing through her. She was rushing closer to the edge of more than just an orgasm—they were forming a link that could never be severed.
David seemed to sense it too and brought himself deeper. He plunged his tongue into her mouth as if trying to forge a stronger link. His hips met hers, again while his hungry mouth devoured hers. Finally her body reeled in an explosion of being and mind. David followed, joining her pleasure and filling her with his fluid. This time when he collapsed on her, there were tears in his eyes.
Chapter Seven By noon, David was on the road heading back to Asheville. Somehow he had to get his life back. He may have made a mistake years ago, but he’d tried to make amends— only to have it fall apart. Justice was for the highest bidder in this country and Dominick wasn’t going down easy. “Michael Tobes, have you really sold your soul to the devil?” It would explain how David had been found so easily after the indictment. He’d been walking on the street next to the safe house when the shots were fired. It was just a few hours after Michael had told him that in another week, he would be able to resume his life. David could remember the sound of the gunshots and not being able to breath as he fell to the sidewalk. He’d nearly died. A bum on the corner had used his collections to call for help. As his thoughts ran to Michael, his cell phone rang. “Speaking of the devil,” he muttered as he saw the number displayed. “Hello?” “Stafford, where are you man? I sent a car to check on you this morning and there was no one home.” Michael sounded genuinely concerned. Maybe he’d taken acting lessons. David chose his words carefully. “Sorsha and I had a fight. I was out all night looking for her.” He waited, wondering how much Michael would reveal about the close call in the cabin. “There was a bad wreck on the road toward the cabin. Did you have anything to do with that?” Michael sounded strange, and he realized the concern was for Michael’s wellbeing and not David’s. Dominick must be getting antsy. “Sure did. Some of Dominick’s guys came after me. It was a rough ride but they landed in the ditch.” “Well, come on back. Let’s get you someplace safe.” Even for an agent, Michael sounded detached. David held his breath trying to hear any background noise. He was willing to bet some of Dominick’s guys were listening in on the call. “I can’t until I find Sorsha. We parted on bad terms.” “You still don’t know where she went?” “No. I headed out of town last night thinking she might’ve gone to her aunt’s house in Tennessee. No such luck. I’ve got to find her.” “Listen, man. I’ve got an idea. Come on in. There’s a private little restaurant downtown. My staff will rent out the whole place. Have dinner with me and talk.” “Why?” David’s gut clenched. “We need to get a strategy here. You’re running around like you’ve gone nuts. Besides, I want to make sure Dominick hasn’t gotten to you yet.” “Where is this place?” “The Sisters Haven. It’s out on Brigston.”
So this was how it was going down. A little dinner, then he’d be a memory. They’d probably poison his food, hoping to avoid a loud and messy gunfight. “What time do you want me there?” “Let’s make it seven. Does that sound okay?” David could almost see Michael sitting in one of Dominick’s private offices. A group of guys would be there, one holding a pistol and drooling. Dominick would be there, twirling a pencil in his fingers, looking cold and as calculating as ever. “Perfect.” David ended the call and kept going. He had a few choices. He could try to contact Michael’s supervisor. That would mean two trials. It would be easy enough to get Michael busted and even Dominick could be taken into custody—but the justice system was hard on witnesses and Sorsha had been through enough. He picked up the phone again. There was one way to handle his new predicament. His ex-employer had brought him many skills. Applying them to a human wouldn’t be that difficult as long as he could come up with the equipment. It was time to call on an old friend. “Hello?” Came the gruff voice of a man. “Rodger, get your thumb out of your ass. We have a job to do.” David grinned imagining the shock Rodger was going through. He hadn’t spoken to his old friend since the warehouse fiasco. “Well?” “Stafford? I heard you went straight.” There was a loud noise like a chair falling in place. “The Feds talked me out of it.” David watched the road and passed a highway patrolman. “Is this a set up?” Rodger’s voice fell to a whisper. “Man, you better not be taping this.” That was the biggest concern. In their line of work, a tapped phone line could spell disaster and with the rumor about his betrayal circulating throughout their clique, it was a miracle anybody would talk to him. “You know me better than that. The only name I ever gave them was Dominick’s. I took care of everybody else.” There was a long pause. David couldn’t decide if it was bad or good. Considering he’d turned rat, there were few people who’d trust him enough to talk to him much less offer any real help. Even fewer that understood why he’d disappeared without a word. “Why, man? Why’d you do it?” The sound of disgust colored his words. “You were one of the best.” “He sent me into a warehouse knowing full well that some chicks had set up house in there. One of those girls died. I might be a lot of things, but I’ve never been a murderer.” He’d done a lot of things in his life that he’d grown ashamed of. There was one more sin to add to his lot but it would be the last. Unfortunately it was also the worst act he’d ever committed. “So why you calling me?” Rodger wasn’t exactly acting friendly. It made David worry. “I’m getting ready to change.” David looked at a road sign. He’d be in town in another hour. “I need a rig for two cars, make it three. You don’t have to be involved
with anything else. This is all on me but I don’t have access to the rigs.” David paused hoping for a reply. “You’re the only one I trust, Rodger. Can we meet?” “When?” “In an hour. It will have to be someplace public. Let’s meet at the mall.” His stomach growled. “At the food court.” “The mall? Have you lost your mind?” Rodger wasn’t the public place kind of guy. “Probably. Dominick is out and there’s no place safe. At least at the mall you can pretend you bumped into me. If anybody’s watching, it won’t look suspicious. Besides, I have a ring to buy.” “A ring. Sounds like you’re making a lot of changes.” He huffed loudly and cursed under his breath. “Deal. I’ll meet you.” David wasn’t good at emotional crap, but Rodger had been his oldest and closest friend. Unfortunately, he was another person David had walked out on. “Are you mad at me?” “Only for not calling. I still think of you as a brother.” “Good to know.” David ended the call and kept going. An hour passed with him zigzagging through traffic. Finally he saw the signs for Asheville. He switched lanes and took the highway next to the mall. Another fifteen minutes went by as he battled traffic and a barrage of red lights. Finally he pulled into the parking garage in the back of the mall and headed inside. This entrance was the closest to the food court. There was no mistaking Rodger. He was tall and thin, and always wore a baseball cap to cover his receding hairline that attacked from the front and a golf ball-sized bald patch in the back. No matter the time of day, Rodger had beard stubble. Many of those attributes would blend into any crowd, but most people avoided him. Women and children would grab their purses when he walked by. Some would cross the street to keep from walking near him. It wasn’t a physical thing that made them run scared. The man’s demeanor was hard. His eyes and stance showed it. When he moved or spoke, he looked ready for a fight, although that was rarely the case. Rodger had taken a seat near the escalators and was busily munching on a pack of chicken nuggets. One mud covered work boot was planted on the floor while the other was propped on the chair next to him. “Hey, man, how are you doing?” David came up and sat in the seat across the table. Rodger’s face lit up, which was no small feat for that gruff exterior. “I haven’t seen any of Dom’s guys yet. Thanks for calling. You should’ve done it a year ago.” “I know. I screwed up a lot.” He stole a piece of chicken off Rodger’s plate. “Did you bring my rigs?” “Sure did. I brought the remote kind. I didn’t think you wanted to risk the timer.” Rodger plopped another nugget in his mouth. “I thought this kind of job was beneath you.” “It’s the only way to get my life back.” David rubbed his eyes. “I didn’t realize justice was for sale. Mind you, I’m not a straight and narrow guy. You know that, but when I heard that that little girl died, it crushed me. Now I can’t get out of it. Dominick wants me dead either way. I’ve got a Fed that’s up Dominick’s ass, and no chance for a happily-ever-after with a chick crazy enough to want me.”
“Well, I brought you four rigs. There’s a piece of colored tape on each along with a corresponding remote.” David grinned. “Gotta love a detail man.” “What’cha gonna do after this is over? You’ve got to earn a living.” “I’ve got a little stashed back.” Four hundred thousand to be precise, but he didn’t want to talk about that. “Nice, but it won’t last forever.” Rodger waved a fry at him as he spoke. “Money goes fast, especially when you’re taking care of a woman.” “I know. That’s the next thing I want to talk to you about.” David stole another nugget off Rodger’s plate. “I’ve made a lot of connections in my time. Many of them are legit, surprising enough. Let’s do what we’ve always claimed to be doing.” “What?” “Let’s do demolition jobs. I’ve got enough money to set us up with the equipment you own. Let’s see,” David pretended to count. “You’ve got everything but a license right?” “Would we be partners?” Rodger cocked his head to the side. It was the way he thought, almost looking like slow gears were starting to turn although it was against their will. “I thought we would. My connections, your equipment. Sounds like a match made in heaven. We don’t do any side work though. I want this to be a regular business.” “I always thought I was too old to be dodging cops.” Rodger grinned, and it was the look of a madman who had just been healed. Just then David’s cell phone rang, causing both men to jump. He picked it up and noticed the number was out of town. A chill went through him. It wasn’t Michael and didn’t look like Dominick. “Hello?” His worst fear was that they’d found Sorsha. It was the driving force behind his decision to handle things outside of the law. “Hi. I hope I’m not bothering you.” Sorsha’s voice made him smile. “You’re not bothering me. Is everything okay?” “I’m fine.” She started to speak then stopped. Another moment passed with the sound of her breathing before she spoke again. “Why don’t you come back? We could run away together.” “No more running. I think I know a way to make things better for us. Just give me a little time.” “You promise you’ll come back?” “I can’t think of anything that would keep me from it.” Actually he could, but telling her he could die would serve no purpose. “Just relax and don’t open the door for anyone you don’t know. There’s some money next to the bed for food and stuff. I’ll see you later, sweetie.” He hung up. Rodger was watching him a little too closely. The tired eyes staring out from weather whipped skin, caught much more than Rodger would ever admit to. David had seen those eyes in action, taking in every detail to plan the perfect crime scene. “Who’s the sweetie?” asked Rodger. “Sorsha.” He looked down at the phone wondering if Dominick had a tap on his cell. “I think you met her once.” “You two back together?”
“She agreed to marry me.” David smiled again. “I walked out of her life, too, but she forgave me, eventually. I can’t lose her a second time.” “Amazing what a woman can do to a guy.” “You have no idea.” David eased down in his seat. One more day and it would be over. He’d give Sorsha her fairytale ending. “I’d better run. The rigs will be in your trunk. What’cha driving?” “White Chevy parked three spaces over from the door on the second level of the garage. Tag is BB443.” “When’s this going down?” Rodger looked at his watch as if he were late for an appointment. David knew better than to ask. “Tonight at seven. A place called The Sister’s Haven. I don’t intend to be there long, but you never know what can happen.” Rodger looked at his watch again and got that peculiar gear-grinding look. “Call me after the heat’s off. We’ll start on business. I think I need the change too.” The two men shook hands. David watched Rodger walk to the escalator and go up to the doors leading to parking. He wanted to make sure no one noticed Rodger leaving. When he was out of sight, David went up the mall to the jewelry store.
Chapter Eight David checked out the restaurant. It was a lone building on the corner with a parking lot wrapping around. Employees seemed to park on the alley side, although tonight there was only a lone Nissan with a hood that didn’t match the rest of the car. There weren’t enough vehicles anywhere near the building for a kitchen staff, unless a dozen people could fit in the abandoned Nissan. It was a perfect set up. The alley was dark and narrow. If everything went the way David expected, Dominick’s guys would show up. They’d park on the alley side, away from the main road, trying to stay out of sight as much as possible. A large, metal doorway lead to the back of the restaurant, breaking up the brick pattern with the ugly rusted sight. It would be the best entrance for Dominick. It offered protection from two sides and hid him comfortably from the road. There was a chain-link fence running next to the alley. It closed off the area between the alley and the hardware store. This would have to work for David’s lookout point. He pulled bolt cutters and snipped away a good section of fencing behind the restaurant’s dumpster. This would be fine for a hideout spot. If all went well, he’d have his life back on track by nightfall. David parked his car two streets over, then went back to his hiding place behind the dumpster. The units—he preferred that term instead of bombs—were in his duffel along with the remotes to blow them. He didn’t like holding the rigs for very long. The idea of keeping explosives near him seemed spooky. Accidents happened, but with explosives they couldn’t happened twice. Please let this go well. He felt a bead of sweat creep across his brow. David took a few deep breaths, trying to calm down. This has to work. Never in his life had he set out to murder, but they’d left him no alternative. He needed his life back, and the girl who’d died in that warehouse needed the justice that the law would never provide. He swallowed hard and waited. Lighting fires had been a thrill for him. A rush as he plotted out the details then lit it up, watching the display like it had been fireworks. This was a different matter. Instead of excitement, he felt sick to his stomach. His knees were a little wobbly and his heart drummed loud enough to drown out the sound of traffic. This would be his last illegal act. There was a superstition in his line of work. Nobody ever claimed a job would be their last because it usually ended in arrest or death. Sort of a twisted karma that nailed them. Still, he knew this was really his last job, one way or another. At six thirty, David watched the first cars pull into the alley behind the restaurant. There were Dominick’s boys. The first car carried the mad man himself. David saw the hefty guy slide out of the back seat of a Lincoln Town Car. He was an ugly sight, with a nose much too large for his small head and beady eyes. Two men got out of the car with him. The next car carried the shooters. They filed in behind Dominick, all taking the back entrance into the restaurant. One hung out outside, watching the place with two-way radio in hand. His presence would complicate things.
At the start of the alley, Michael pulled in, then backed out when he saw Dominick had parked there. He’d probably choose the other side of the lot, away from the men who could incriminate him. David crept in the gate and went around to the front of the building. Michael had chosen to park on the road. David saw him get out and walk into the restaurant. This was his chance. He crept around, trying to duck behind several other cars parked on the street. David grabbed one unit from the bag and stuck it under the gas tank, taking note of the yellow tape on the end. When he went back around the building, Dominick’s man was still standing at the back of the restaurant. He was the lookout and well-trained. His posture was straight, hands folded in front over his trench coat to keep any breezes from showing the gun these guys always carried. There was nothing nervous about him, although his eyes kept shifting back and forth over the lot as if waiting for someone to appear. The rest of the vehicles would be harder to tag. David took a deep breath then eased behind the dumpster. The only car accessible was parked at the far side. It was the one carrying Dominick’s men. He slid a unit under that gas tank, noticing the red tape. As he rose up, he noticed their guard stepped around the corner and turned his back taking a piss. This was David’s chance. He went to Dominick’s car and slid the charge in place. He started back toward the fence but wasn’t fast enough. Even as he touched the rim of the dumpster, a voice from behind caught him. In one swift motion he dropped the bag of remotes near the dumpster then turned to find Dominick’s gunman had finished pissing and had a gun drawn ready to shoot while one hand finished zipping. “What are you doing back here?” “Nothing, man. I was just walking down the alley.” David took a step backward. “It’s a free country.” “Don’t move.” The guy came closer and saw David’s face. There must’ve been photos of him everywhere because this guy nodded as he stepped forward. “We’ve been waiting for you.” He didn’t have to say anything more, only pointed to the restaurant. David was directed to the back door with pee boy following close behind. The place was deserted. Even the front lights were off and the curtains closed. Not one employee appeared as they walked inside. They went through the kitchen where the pots and pans hung neatly above an enormous stove. Stacks of dishes lined the shelves on the nearby wall. The place had no indication of operating today, which left out the poisoning scenario. These guys intended to blow his brains out. He’d kind of suspected it. For some reason poisoning just seemed nicer. The barrel of the pistol behind him made David keep moving toward a table in the corner of the restaurant. There sat Michael. His suits had gotten more expensive, clearly tailored with the pants cuffed at the perfect height from the shoe. He’d even wore cufflinks that looked like real gold. Clearly, David had not been Michael’s only chance for extra income. As they came closer, David could swear he even spotted a hint of lacquer on manicured fingernails. There was no sign of Dominick, although David knew he had to be close. A private dining room was to the left with the doors shut. He’d bet anything the sawed off piece of shit was in there, waiting.
“Look who I found outside.” The henchman brought David to a chair. “Have a seat.” “Hi, Michael.” David was shoved into the seat, hard. “How long have you been on Dominick’s payroll?” “So you know.” Michael scooted back in the chair as if distancing himself from the implication. He cracked his knuckles nervously then looked toward the closed dining area. “How’d you find out?” “I showed up early and checked out the restaurant. I saw Dominick pull in. When I went to verify who the car belonged to, this guy spotted me.” David sat back in the chair. “Why’d you do it?” “Let’s not get into that now.” Michael looked back at the private dining room and nodded to piss boy. The doors opened and Dominick came out, followed by five guys. “I believe you and Dominick have business to discuss.” “Great,” said David, as the bloated man approached. Dominick was a marvel in motion. As big as he was, the only thing on him that jiggled was his chin. The rest of him was bound in an expensive suit and tie. Gold peeked out from his cuffs and the edge of his collar. “Stafford. I knew I’d catch up to you.” Dominick grabbed his chin. “Thought you were pretty cute trying to turn me in, didn’t you? I can’t believe you thought you’d walk away unscathed.” “You knew there were people in that warehouse. A girl died!” David imagined what that girl’s last moments were like. Walls and fire and heat surrounded her with no way out. “You knew.” “Some runaway trash doesn’t concern me.” “She was a person, not some trash.” David had gone to the funeral and met the parents. They were good people. The girl had been their only child. “She was a person,” he repeated remembering the photo that sat above the closed coffin. “She’d been a cheerleader and an honor student before her life went to hell. There was a good chance she would’ve returned home.” “You can apologize to her in person.” Dominick turned to one of his men. “Let’s take him back in the alley. Give him one in the head then throw him in the trunk. We’ll throw his body in the river and see if the next town can figure out who he is.” “Come on,” commanded pee boy. The man, who had brought him in, took him back through the same door. Two men escorted them, making an escape impossible. If he even attempted to run, he’d be shot in the street. The only thing he could do was go out with dignity. They went to the parking lot. David wished he’d had a chance to say goodbye to Sorsha. Once again he was deserting her, even after all the promises he’d made. She could still marry Adam and have a decent life. She deserved better than him anyway. “On your knees,” one of the men ordered. David barely heard the command. His thoughts were with Sorsha. His last moment, would be filled with her memories. It wouldn’t be so bad, going out with her face playing, hiding the nightmare in something sweeter. A hand on his shoulder pushed while someone kicked the back of his knees, making him kneel. He glanced around but saw nothing he could use to escape. He was alone in the world without a single weapon. So he closed his eyes and waited for the end to come.
There were tears in his eyes, but not for his own life, only for the one he was leaving behind. “Goodbye, Stafford,” said someone to his left. It wasn’t fair. The good guy was supposed to win in the end. Dying in an alley shouldn’t be the payment for attempting a better life, a finer start. No one would stop Dominick. He’d keep killing and not even the government could slow him down. The sound of a gun cocking followed. This was it. David steeled himself against the next moment. Hopefully it would be quick. Dying slowly in front of these creeps would be awful. As it was, he couldn’t stand the sound of their voices, the smell of too much cologne. In the end, he didn’t want to die badly. I love you Sorsha. I’ll always love you. There was a shot and David jerked then realized he hadn’t been shot. More shots came as the men holding him fell to the ground. He looked up as a motorcycle revved to high, then jerked to a stop next to the dead men. “Let’s get out of here,” said Rodger. His black helmet gleamed, and for a minute David thought he’d kiss the crazy man. “Wait, I have to get the remotes.” “Already got them. Come on.” Men started rushing out of the restaurant. Rodger was fast. They ducked down the alley, turning a little for traffic. Then Rodger did an odd thing. He drove through the grassy lawn across from the restaurant and stopped. David caught on fast as Rodger threw him the duffel with the remotes. Dominick’s guys were the first into the street, engine revving high as they pulled from the alley. David took out the remote with the red label and hit the button watching the car explode in brilliant flames. A piece of the mirror flew over to where they sat, landing hard enough to stick upright in the grass. Next came Dominick’s vehicle barreling past the car engulfed in flames. David was quick. When the vehicle pulled out of the alley, he hit the button sending the man who’d plagued him for over a year straight to hell. A little smile crept across his face. It felt good to watch the car burn. The occupants were probably already dead, but seeing the flames made it real. The last one out was Michael. He checked the street and started to his vehicle, stopping just out of range. The fed looked around terrified then backed away from his car as if he knew what was waiting under the gas tank. Two cars were in flames and there were sirens in the distance coming up fast. It was time to go but David couldn’t let this end here. Michael was just as dangerous as Dominick, maybe more so because he hid behind the law. David got off the motorcycle and walked toward the agent. The clunky squares in his jacket knocked together, scaring him. There were two remotes and one more unit. He’d seen what Rodger’s set up did to cars. It would annihilate a person. “Why’d you do it, Michael?” David yelled as he walked to the edge of the street. “Why did you give me up to Dominick?” Michael took a step back. “For the same reason you burned down buildings. The pay off.” He looked over at his car. “You’re crazy if you think I’m going to get in that car.” Michael looked terrified of the other two metal shells lost in orange flame.
“You tried to get me killed over money.” David reached into his pocket. “You’re the reason I was shot, aren’t you?” “Don’t judge me. How many people did you risk setting your fires? How many people died that you didn’t know about?” The thought had haunted him. Ever since he’d found out about that one girl, he couldn’t face the idea that he could’ve killed others and never found out. Some of his fires burned so hot that the bodies may have never been discovered. “I tried to do the right thing. I came forward, not even asking for a deal. You’re the one who screwed it up.” “Sometimes trying isn’t enough.” Michael touched his gold cufflink. “A good deed will only get you so far in life. It’s people like Dominick who get the goodies in this world.” David kept walking closer, stopping less than three feet from the agent. “How much did Dom pay you?” “The amount doesn’t matter. You won’t be telling anyone about this.” Michael pulled a pistol from his coat. “Freeze right there.” “You can’t shoot me. How will you explain that to the Feds?” “I’ll tell them that Dominick did it. It will be better than you turning me in when your conscience bothers you.” Michael took a step closer to the car and that was all David needed. He took one unit from his pocket and tossed it at Michael. On instinct, Michael caught the little black box with the magnetic square on its top. “What’s this?” asked Michael. “Consider it a gift. Maybe it will change your mind about turning me in.” David watched as Michael examined it. “Open it.” David held the remotes out in his hand and started backing away. When Michael looked down, trying to pull the magnetic square off the back, David ran and hit both remotes. A wall of fire engulfed Michael while the vehicle behind him went up in flames. David was blown back a few feet by the blast, landing in the street with his clothes on fire and the door of Michael’s car across his legs.
Chapter Nine Sorsha sat on the bed staring at the television but not registering what was playing. It was close to midnight but she couldn’t sleep. She’d lost so much time with David that she feared they’d never have a chance to catch up. This Dominick guy was dangerous. What could David do against someone like him? She lay on the bed and cried. He’d never come back to her. She’d lost him again and this time she couldn’t rely on hate to pull her through the heartbreak. There was no one to blame except a crazy murderer. There were other things she should think about, like explaining to Adam why she couldn’t marry him, but all she could think of was David. Not even sleep would give her solace. A noise at the door pulled her out of her thoughts. Was it possible Dominick had found her? She froze, too scared to move as the door opened. There was no weapon she could use so she sat there. As the door opened, David poked his head inside. He looked worse for wear. His clothes were burned and torn. Soot marked his cheek along with a few bruises. A heavy smell of smoke followed him. “David?” She ran to him, almost knocking him off his feet. “What happened?” “It’s over. We’re free.” He leaned heavily against her as she helped him to the bed. “Do you still want to be my wife?” She nodded and felt fresh tears. “Of course I do.” “Then put this on.” He reached into his shirt pocket and pulled out a ring box. She opened it and found a brilliant diamond inside. After sliding it on, she kissed his cheek. “Is everything really going to be okay from now on?” “Yes, baby. Oh, except I’m going to have a real job, so don’t get pissed when I disappear for eight or ten hours a day.” “Deal.” She helped him pull off his clothes and tossed them to the floor. Once he was naked she helped him under the blankets. There the two slept, curled in each other’s arms. David gripped her so tightly it took her breath as he pulled her against his chest. Sorsha knew that this time David wouldn’t leave her. The End About the Author: Jennifer Cloud was born in Asheville, North Carolina, where she met her husband— who encouraged her to write after finding a partial manuscript in the bottom of her armoire.
She now resides in Florida with her husband and two daughters. She writes romantic suspense, and paranormal and erotic romances. Visit her website at www.jennifercloud.com or email her at
[email protected].
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