Wicked_Lovers_1)__-_Wicked_Ties_Shayla_Black.epub

CHAPTERONE
Haveyoueverwantedtoputyourselfinthehandsofamanwhosesolepurposeistogiveyou
pleasure?
ThewordsflashedacrossMorganO’Malley’slaptopscreen.Shesuckedinasharp,shocked
breath.She’dmetthismaninanonlinechatroomlessthanthreeminutesago.Howcouldheknowthat?
Hemusthaveguessed,hadtohaveguessed.Shehadn’ttoldhimanythingaboutherself,notonesinglething,excepthernameandthefactshewantedtointerviewhimforhercableTVshow.
Buteventhroughherstunnedsilence,hekeptpeelingbackthelayersofhersecrets.
Doyouwantamantoseeinsideyou,allthewaytoyourfantasies,thedarkestonesyoudon’teventellyourfriendsabout,andmakeeveryoneofthemcometrue?
Asurgeofarousalcoiledinherbelly.Herpalmsbegantosweat.Morganswallowedhard.
Inthesilentlivingroomshadowedwiththemanycolorsofdusk,Morgansquirmedontheblackleathersofa,shovingdesiresshedidn’tdareadmittothebackofhermind.
Thiswasbusiness.Hewasbusiness.Itwasn’tagoodideatohavethehotsforthenextinterviewsubjectforhershow.Itmightbelate-nightcabletalk,butTurnMeOnwasherjob,herbrainchild,herlittlerebellion…herlife.
Besides,achingforaguywhoserealnameshedidn’tevenknow,whosefaceshe’dneverseen—
whoselifestylesheshouldn’tevenponder—wasjustdumb.
So,MasterJ,isthatwhatadominantdoes?shetypedinresponse,determinedtokeepthe
conversationlight.Dishoutfantasies?
Oneofthethings,herespondedatlength.Butthatwouldbeoversimplifyingtherelationship.Hismostimportantgoalistoearnhispartner’strust.Trustisimportantinanyrelationship,butespeciallyinoneinvolvingDominance/submission.Withoutthat,howcanawomanfreelyputherselfinaman’scareandknowthatherwell-beingandsafetywillalwaysbefirst?Howcansheknowhermasterwillunderstandhersohecanmakehereverywickedfantasycometrue?
Dominancewasn’tjustabouttyingsomeonetothebedandscrewingthemintothemattress?
SurprisewrinkledMorgan’sbrow.Trust,care,understanding—shehadtoadmit,thatallsoundedlikeafantasyinitself.Certainly,she’dbeenlackingthosequalitiesinherrelationshipwithherex-fiancé,Andrew,especiallytheunderstanding.
Trustallowsawomantoconnectwiththeprimitivepartofherthatcravestheuttersurrenderofbeingathermaster’smercy,despitenotknowingifplansforherinvolvepleasure,pain,orboth.
Morgancouldn’tdenythatMasterJintriguedherevenmorenowthanwhenoneoftheproductionassistants,Reggie,hadgivenherhisbio.
Togglingtoheremail,sheopenedthebioshe’dbeengivenandscanneditagain
AmemberoftheBDSMandD/sscenefornearlytenyears,MasterJisexperiencedinallfacets,butcontinuestolearn.Heownsapersonalsecuritycompanyandhasbeenbodyguardtosenators,internationaldiplomats,andathletes.AWestPointgraduate,healsoservedinmilitarySpecialForcesasateamleaderbeforebeinghonorablydischarged.
Morganclickedtheemailclosed.Theparagraphrevealedalotaboutthemanwhosewordsmade
hershiverwithdarkfantasies.Self-discipline,honor,strength.Yettheblurbsaidverylittleatthesametime.Whowasthisguy?Couldhereallybindandteaseawomanintomakingherbeg?
Morgan?Hernameflashedacrossthescreen.Youstillthere?
Sorry.Justthinking.Clearly,Ihavealottolearnaboutinordertodotheshowproperly.IguessIthoughtitwasallaboutvelvetropesandhandcuffs.
It’saboutthat,too.?
Shelaughed,pushingdowntheachecurlinginherbelly…andlower.Alittlecuriositydidn’t
makeherdepraved.Definitelynot.Itwasjustinterestingtoseehowtheotherhalflived.
Butit’salsoanexchangeofpowerandtrust,hetyped.Awomanchoosestogivehermaster
dominionoverherbodyandhermind.Shesurrendersherfleshandfreewilltoanythingand
everythinghedesires.
Whatsortofsurrender?avoiceinsideofherdemandedtoknow.Athousanddarkimagespushedthemselvesintoherbrainfromthedepthsofherfantasies:herkneelingtothisstranger’scock,himorderinghertospreadherlegswidesohecouldsimplylookather,herboundtohisbedashepreparedtotakewhateverhewanted.
Disturbedbytheshockingturnofherthoughts,sheshookthemaway.Andignoredherrapid
breathing.
Lotsofpeoplehadbondagefantasiesatonetimeoranother,she’dread.Havingoneortwo
herselfwasnormal,nomatterwhatAndrewsaid.
Morgansquirmedagainsttheleathercushionsagain,ignoringanyextramoisturebetweenherlegs.
ButaD/srelationshipisalsoaboutalotmore,MasterJtyped.
Howdoyouputsomeoneinmanacles,blindfolds,anddarkrooms,butstillearntheirtrust?Howdoyoudevelopanemotionallygratifyingrelationshipwhenonepersonhasallthepower?
It’snotlikethat.
Morgan’sgazestayedrivetedtoherscreenasshewaitedformore.Foralong,silentmoment,sheheldherbreath…butnothing.MasterJwasn’tgoingtoreplyfurther.Justlikeinthebedroom,shesupposed.Hehadthepowertogiveorwithhold.
Finally,alongerreplyappearedinthelittlechatroomwindow.
Sorry,butI’vehadanurgentcall.Havetogo.IfyoufeelIhavethebackgroundtoassistwithyourshow,let’smeet.I’llansweryourquestionsthen.Someplacepublic,soyoudon’tworryImightbeaserialkillerluringyouintodanger.Icantalkfaster.I’vemasteredalot,butnottyping<g>.Istillhuntandpeck.
Morganscuttledherimpatience.Nothardwhenthemanmadehersmileathisjokes.
Iunderstand,sheanswered.Canwemeettomorrowat3?IGoogledandfoundaplacethatseemstobepopularthereinLafayettecalledLaRoux.Knowwherethatis?
Cher,I’manative.Iknoweverycrackinthesidewalkaroundhere.
Morgansmiledandtyped,Cher?I’mnotthattalloroldenoughtohavehadasingingcareersincethe60s!
LOL.ItmeansdearinFrench,hetranslated.I’mCajun,soIgrewupspeakingthelanguage.
Morganreadhisreplyandignoredthelittleflutterinherbelly.FlirtationwasaFrenchthing,andhe’dbeenraisedwiththeculture.Itwasasnaturaltohimasbreathing,nodoubt.
<blushing>I’velivedinLosAngelestoolong,Iguess.I’llseeyouthen?
Youwill.HowwillIknowyou?LotsofprettygirlsinLouisiana.IwanttomakesureIrevealmyinnermostsecretstotherightone.
Hewasacharmer,Morganbet.He’dhavetobewithhisinterestinwieldingwhipsandchains.
Certainly,most“normal”womenwouldrunscreamingintheoppositedirectionatthethoughtofalittlepainandalotofobediencewiththeirsex.
I’llbewearingastrawhat,sunglasses,andabig,boxycoat,sheanswered.
Soundsmorelikeadisguise,MasterJreturned.
Hehadnoidea.Andshewasn’tadvertisingthefactshehadastalker.Morganonlyhopedthe
reasonsheneededadisguisewouldbecaughtandstartrottinginhellsoon.
Seeyoutomorrow,shejottedback.
Aurevoir.
ThemessageonherscreentoldhermomentslaterthatMasterJhadlefttheprivatechatroom.
Withasigh,shemovedtoclosethechatroomwindow.
Herhandtrembled.No,herwholebodytrembled,despitetheheatsnakingunderherskin.
Shewastired,that’sall.
Tireddoesn’tmakeyouacheinverypersonalplaces,thevoiceinherheadtaunted.Tireddoesn’tmakeyouwet.
“Tiredmakesmehearpeskyvoicesinmyhead,”shegrumbled.
ShetriedtopushMasterJ,theman,asideandfocusonthequestionsshe’daskhimtomorrow.
Theshow’soutlinehadtobeinsoon,andshewantedtobepreparedtolaunchhersecondseasonwithabang.Already,shehadagrowingcultfollowing.Withtherightmaterial,theshowcouldskyrocket.
Whichmeantshehadtokeephereyeontheprizeandfocusonwork.
Butaftertenminutesofstaringatanemptyscreen,MorganadmittedthatMasterJwouldn’tleavehermind.Whatwasitabouthim?
Otherthanthefacthelivesoutthefantasiesyou’veachedabout?
Morganshookherhead,determinedtoignorethemaddeninglittlevoice.Shewascurious,not
deviant.NomatterwhatAndrewsaidorhermotherwouldthink.
Withasigh,shereachedforthephoneanddialedthenumberoftheproductionassistantinLosAngeles.
“Reggie,”shesaidwhenheanswered.“Hey,ItalkedtothisMasterJguyyouhookedmeupwithandIreadhisbio.I’mmeetinghimtomorrow.What’shisscoop?Learnanythingnew?”
“Yeah,”returnedtheolderman,hisvoicescratchyfromhistwo-pack-a-dayhabit.“IdidsomecallingaroundLouisiana,askedpeopleatbondageclubsifthey’veeverheardofhim,justtomakesurehe’slegit.Hechecksout.”
Thatwasarelief—butitwasn’t.Reggiehadquicklybecomelikeasurrogatefathertoher,andshetrustedhim.ButignoringhercuriosityaboutMasterJwouldhavebeenmucheasierifReggiehadn’tbeenabletovouchforhim.IfonlyshecouldhavewrittenhimoffasanothercrackpotwhowantedtotalkaboutsexonTV.
Morganbitherlip…butherinquisitivenaturewonout.“Whatdideveryonesayabouthim?”
“Abunch.He’scasual,notheavyintothelifestyle,butfairlyregularatafewclubs.Apparently,hehasawaywithwomenandareputationtogowithit.MorethanonepersonItalkedtosaidthathecouldmakeMotherTeresabegtobetieddownandfucked.Hedefinitelywantsawomansubmissive.
Hey,you’renotinterested,areyou?”
“What?”Morgan’sheartskippedahandfulofbeats.“Me?No!”Shescoffed.“WhywouldIwant
abullywhogetsoffonmakingawomanfeelinferior?”
“Yousure?”Reggiesoundedskeptical.
“DoIseemlikethetypetogetintothissortofstuff?”shecountered.
Reggiesaidnothing.DistresscoiledthroughMorgan.
ArattlingofthelockatthefrontdoorhadMorgan’sheadzoomingintheotherdirection.Shesighedwithreliefwhenherhalf-brother,Brandon,shoulderedhiswayinside.
“Gottago,”shetoldReggie.“I’llcallyouafterI’vetalkedtothisguytomorrow.”
“Hey,littlesister,”Brandongreetedasshehungup.
ShovingtheconversationwithReggieoutofhermind,sheroseandsteppedupontiptoetohughim.“Hi.Goodday?”
Hisaristocraticmouthpursedintoafrown.“Notexactly.IhavetogotoIraqforthenextthreeweeks.”
Surprise,andifMorganwashonest,trepidationpunchedherinthestomach.“Iraq?Ithoughtyousatbehindadeskmostofthetime.”
“Mostly,butthereareexceptions.”
“Oh,wow…WhyIraq?”
“Classified.”Hegaveabitterlaugh.“Youknowthedrill…Ican’tsaywhereI’llbeandwhatI’llbedoing.Iwon’tbenearaphoneorcomputerformostofthetime.Morgan,Idon’twanttoleaveyou.It’sdangerous,andIknowyou’reafraid.”
Sheswallowed.Brandonhadalreadydonesomuchbytakingherin,despiteDaddyDearest’sire,protectingherfromthescumwhostalkedher.Shewasafraid,butshecouldn’tletBrandonfeelguiltyfordoinghisjob.
“I’llbefine.”She’dthinkofsomething—shehadto.“I’mbusywithwork.It’llbefine.”
“Ifanythinghappens,IthinkyoushouldcallDad.”
Morgangapedathim,holdinginasarcasticscoff.“Hemaybeyourdad.He’smybiological
father—theonewho’sbeendenyingIexistforthelasttwenty-fiveyears.”
Brandonsighed.“Morgan,youknowhowitiswithpolitics,especiallyinthesouth.Ifpeopleknewhe’dhadaflingwithabarely-legalvolunteerwhilehehadawifeandthreelittleboysathome.
..”
“IknowitwouldruinthesenatorfromthegreatstateofTexas.”
“They’retalkingaboutabidfortheWhiteHousein2012.”Sympathyandregrettangledonhisattractiveface.
“ExactlywhyIcan’tcallhim.Notthathe’dtakemycall,anyway.”
“Hewouldifyouwereindanger.Dadcanprotectyou.”
Morganhadherdoubtsbutsaidnothing.“Toobadwecan’tjusttellhimI’myourfiancée.It’sworkingwitheveryoneelse.”
“Hmm.Ifouractualrelationshipevercametolight,we’dhavetoadmittoincestorlying.Notfunchoices.”
“Let’shopeitdoesn’tcometothat.Idon’tthinkmysickstalkerknowsI’veleftL.A.,sohehasnoideawheretofindme.”
Nodding,Brandonstartedtosiftthroughtheday’smail.Whenhecametoabigmanilaenvelope,hefrowned.“Doesanyoneknowyou’rehereinHouston?”
OtherthanMasterJ,whomshe’dmetonlinealloffifteenminutesago,Reggie,andafewclosefriendsbackhome?“No.”
AnxietythunderedacrossBrandon’sface.“Someonehereknowsyou.Thiswasinthemailbox.
Noname,nopostage.Itwashand-delivered.”
Heheldoutthepackagetoher,andMorgantookitwithdreadboilinginherstomach.Sheknewthathandwriting.
DearGod,howhadhefoundherhere?Andsoquickly?
No!
Handsshaking,breathshort,sheopenedtheenvelopeandextractedthecontents.Asshedid,redrosepetalswithmoistcentersanddeadedgesfluttereddownward,skitteringacrosstheblondhardwoodfloor.Theylookedfaintlylikefatdropsofbloodsplatteredallaroundher.
Morgangasped.Heknewshewashere.Howhadhefoundher?
Thenhergazefelltothephotos.Picturesofher,onearrivingatLAXthedayshe’dfledto
Houston.ThenextofherinBrandon’sbackyardwearingthinsweatpantsandatanktopwithnipplesteasedhardbyacoolmorningbreeze.Thelastaphotoofherinhersagesilk-and-laceshiftwithmatchingrobe,kissingBrandon’scheekastheystoodinthedrivewaybeforeheleftforwork.Justthismorning.
Fearbitingatherbelly,Morgandidn’tprotestwhenBrandongrabbedthephotosfromhernumbfingers.Heflippedthroughthemwithasnarledcurse.
“Thesearefromyourstalker,aren’tthey?He’sbeenhere.Sonofabitch!”Herakedahand
throughhisbrownhair,rufflingthebanker’scut.“I’mcallingthepolice.”
God,shewisheditwasthatsimple.“Theycan’tdoanything.ThepoliceinL.A.toldmehewasgoingtohavetodosomethingillegalbeforetheycouldspendanyenergyfindinghim.Takingpicturesisn’tagainstthelaw.”
“He’sbeenonmyproperty.”Brandonheldupthephotoofherinthebackyardofhisrambling
Houstonhome,hisbigfingerswrinklingthephoto.“Mybackyardisprivate.Theonlywayhecouldtakethispictureisbytrespassing.There’salawbroken.”
Hegrabbedthenearestcordlessphoneanddialed911.Morganjustshookherhead
WhileBrandonwasright,shedoubtedtheHoustonpoliceweregoingtobeanymoremotivatedtodosomethingthanthecopsinL.A.Whoeverthiswashadn’tstolenanything,vandalizedanything.Hehadn’thurtanyone—yet.Morgancouldfeelhisangerbuildinginthefrequencyofhiscontact,thefacthe’dfollowedhertoTexas.Andthepolicewouldn’tcarewhatherguttoldher.
Brandonhungupthephone.“They’llbeheresoon.”
Morganjustshrugged…andtriedtocalmthepanicbubblinginsideher.
Withnothingtodobutwait,shestartedtoshovethepicturesbackintheenvelope.Whensheencounteredanobstruction,sherealizedsomethingelselayinside.Shestuckherhandbetweenthelayersofpaper,perplexed.Usuallythedisturbedbastardonlysentpictures—disconcerting,
disturbinglyprivatepictures,butnothingmore.
Nottoday.
Outofthebenignbrownishenvelopesheyankedascrapofpaperwithascrawlofuglyblack
writing.
Youbelongtome.Onlytome.
Morganswallowedahugelumpoffear.Nowhewascommunicatingwithher.Toher.Conveying
hispossessiveness,hisfurythatshemighthaveanothermaninherlife.Thislunaticdidn’tknowthatBrandonwasherhalf-brother.He’dboughtthecoverstoryBrandonconcocted,asmuchtoexplainherpresenceathishousetoothers,astowarnoffheroverzealouspsycho.
WhilethethoughtofbeingalonelittlescaredMorgan,partofherwasgladBrandonhadtoleavetomorrow.Ifsomethinghappenedtohim,itwouldn’tbebecauseherstalkerhaddecidedtogetthe
“competition”outoftheway.InthethreeweeksBrandonwouldbegone,she’dfiguresomethingout,findsomewhereelsetogo,sothatwhenhereturned,shedidn’tendangertheonlyoneofSenatorRoss’ssonstogivearipabouther.
Maybe,likeReggiesuggestedbeforesheleftL.A.,sheneededabodyguard…
“Youreallyhavenoideawhothiscreepis?”Brandongrowled,staringatthenoteoverher
shoulder.
“None.”Sheshookherhead.“IwishIdid.Ihavenodisgruntledco-workersthatI’mawareof.
Myex-fiancéleftme,nottheotherwayaround.”
“Someonewho’swatchedyourshow?Afanwhodoesn’tknowwheretodrawtheline?”
Morganshrugged.“Maybe.I’vereceivedoddfanmailbefore,butnothingthisthreateningor
privacy-invading.”
“I’mgoingtofindsomeonetogettothebottomofthis,kiddo.I’mnotgoingtoletanythinghappentoyou,”hevowed.
Attimeslikethis,MorganwonderedhowsheandBrandonweredescendedfromthesameloins
asSenatorRoss’sothersons.Theywerenothinglikethemanandhisothergreedy,powerhungryoffspring.
“Damnit,”hecursedsuddenlyintothesilence.“IwishlikehellIdidn’thavetogotomorrow.
Thecarispickingmeupatofivehundred,andthetimingcouldn’tbeworse.Shit!UncleSamcanbeademandingmistress.”
Morgandidn’tknowexactlywhatBrandondid;hewasn’tallowedtotellanyone.Fromthings
he’dsaidinthethreeyearssincehe’dfoundtheskeletonintheirfather’sclosetandtrackedherdown,she’dguessedhewasinIntelligence.Shehadnoideawhofor.
“Ifyouhatethejobsomuch,andyouwanttorunforofficeasbadlyasIknowyoudo,whydon’tyoujustdoit?”
Forthefirsttimeshecouldremember,Brandonwouldn’tmeethergaze.Heturnedaway,fists
clenching.
Heunclenchedthemwithobviouseffort,thensaid,“Ican’t.”
#
Thefollowingday,Morgandroppeddownintoawroughtironchairatalittlesidewalkcaféinaquaintclusterofuniqueshops.TheFebruaryafternoonhungthick,lazy,andsurprisinglysultryallaround.Fightingoffexhaustionafteranearlysleeplessnight,sheglancedatherwatch.Threeo’clock.
She’dmadegoodtimeonherdrivefromHouston.MasterJshouldbehereverysoon.
Herstomachtightenedatthethought.
Thatwasn’ttheonlyreason,though.Shealsofelteyesonher,watching,assessing,probing.Thehairsonthebackofherneckstoodup.Shelookedaround,scannedthecrowd.Nothing.
Morgantookadeepbreath,tryingtoquellheruneasiness.Itwasn’thardtoimaginethatifapsychowouldfollowherfromLosAngelestoHouston,he’dgotheextramiletotrailherto
Lafayette.Shewasprobablysafesittinghereinthemiddleofasunnypublicsquare,butifherecognizedher,he’dseeherwithMasterJandmakeassumptionsthatwouldmakehimevenangrierthantheappearancethatshewasmarryingBrandon.Thenwhennightfell,andshewasaloneinBrandon’shouse…
No,shecouldn’tthinkthatnow.Shewouldhavetokeepthisallbusiness,sothatifherstalkeridentifiedherandwatchedthismeeting,hewouldn’tassumeanythingsexualbetweenherandMasterJ.
Sheadjustedthescarfandhattomakesuretheycompletelycoveredherhair,andpushedthe
sunglassesuponherface.Maybeshewasbeingparanoid.Nooneshouldbeabletorecognizeherlikethis.Maybeafterthisinterview,shewouldslipawaytothatcozyEuropean-lookingbedandbreakfastshe’dseenonherwayintotownandcatchuponsleepsoshecouldfigureouthowtoshakethisstalker.
Awaitercamebywithawidesmile,whiteteethstarkagainsthisebonyskin.Morgandidherbesttosmilebackassheorderedicedtea.
Oncehe’dgone,shetuggedtheboxy,lightweightcoatshe’ddraggedoutofBrandon’scloset
downoverherhipsandflippedupthecollar.Thewaiterarrivedwithhertea.Shecheckedherwatchagain.Fiveafterthree.She’dgiveMasterJanotherfewminutes.Sittinghereintheopen,vulnerabletothesickmanwho’dbeenfollowingher…suddenlyitstruckherasveryunwise.
“YoumustbeMorgan.”
Thedeepwhispercamefrombehindher,deliveredrightinherear.Hiswarmbreathcascaded
downthesideofherneck,andshegaveaninvoluntaryshiver.
Shestarted,turned,stunnedanyonehadbeenabletosneakuponher,asjumpyasshewas.Buthe’dbeenutterlysilent.
Andhewasbreathtakinglygorgeous.
Thick,darkhairteasedhisbroadforehead.Anangularjawandcleftchindustedwithafive
o’clockshadowshoutedhismasculinitywithallthesubtletyofasonicboom.Hiswidemouthcurledupwithanexpressionthatlookedhalfsmile,halfchallenge.But,oh,hiseyes.Theycapturedher.
Accentedbyasweepofblackbrows,thoseknowingeyesofhiswatchedher,asifhecouldseedeepinsideher.Asifheknewallhersecrets.
Allowinghergazetowandersouthdidn’thelptameherpulse,either.MasterJstoodaboutsixfeettall,withbroadshouldersandabodyofwell-honedmuscleevidentunderatightblackT-shirtthatmadeherthinkofamountainwithitssolid,quietpermanence.Noonecouldmoveamountain.
Noonewasgoingtomovethismaneither,unlesshewantedtobemoved.
Juststaringathimjoltedherwithattractionandahealthydoseoflust.
Thankgoodnesstheirtimealonewouldbelimitedtothisonemeetinginpublic.Otherwise,
Morgandidn’tthinkshecouldberesponsibleforherbehavior.
Sheswallowed,tryingtofindhervoice.“Yes,I’mMorgan.”
Whenshestuckoutherhand,hedidn’tjustshakeit.Toosimple.Tanglinghisgazewithhers,hebentandbroughtherhandtohismouth,placingakissonherfingers.
Oh,dearGod…
Fireracedupherarm,turningherheartbeatintoastaccatochug.Helingered,ahotbreath
caressingthebackofherhand,hisfingertipsteasingthesensitivecenterofherpalm.Tinglesburstacrossherskin,upherarm.
Hiseffectonherdidn’tendthere.Instead,theimpactofhispresence,histouch,dovedeepinsideher,whereanachebegantopulsegentlybetweenherlegs.Asifherclitneededtoannouncethefactherlibidowantedtogetnakedwiththisman.
Business,business!Thedemandchaseditselfinherhead.
Withadiscreettug,Morganpulledherhandfree.MasterJsmiledashesatbesideher—ratherthanacross—andscootedhischairafewinchescloser.Shetriedtoignoreherawarenesshisthighbrushinghers,thetinglingunderherskin.
“Thankyouformeetingmehere,Mr…Whatwouldyoulikemetocallyou,sinceIdon’tknow
yourname?”
Thatgrinseemedtotauntherwithherownuncertaintyandhiswickedknowledgeoftheir
forthcomingsexualdiscussion.“Fornow,justcallmesir.”
“Okay.Yes,sir.”
Themomentthewordswereoutofhermouth,Morganrealizedhowsexualtheysounded.How
sexualhe’dintendedtheysound.Notjustdeferential,thoughtheywerethat,too.ButaroundMasterJ,shejustcouldn’tseemtomusterenoughairtopowerhervoicebeyondahuskymurmur.
Whatwoulditbeliketocallhimsirinprivate?
Despitethedarksunglassesshieldingher,hisdarkeyesseemedtodancewiththeknowledgeofhereverythought,everysinfulfeeling,asheheldhergaze,asifhecouldreadthedesirealloverherface.
Morganusedtheuntouchedteainfrontofherasanexcusetolookawayandscouredherbrainforasafe,neutraltopic.
Hardtodothatwhenshe’dinvitedhimheretotalkaboutsex.
“So,accordingtothebioIreceivedaboutyou,you’reinthepersonalsecuritybusiness.A
bodyguard?”
“Exactly.”Heshruggedthosedeliciouslymassiveshoulders.“Iguardalotofpoliticiansandtheirfamilies,diplomats,anoccasionalathlete.”
“Youmeetalotofinterestingpeople,I’msure.Doyouworkwithcelebrities?”sheasked.
Ahintofhumorcurvedhiswidemouthtosomethingnearingasmile.“Tooflaky.Politiciansareliars,butatleastyouknowwhattoexpect.YouHollywoodtypesareeitherparanoid,self-absorbed,oraspsychoasthepeoplestalkingyou.Nothanks.”
Morgancouldn’tdecideifshewasannoyedoramused.“I’mnoneoftheabove.”
“Giveittime.”Hewinked.
Incorrigibledescribedhimperfectly.Ahintofarrogancelacedwithahealthydoseofsexappealandteasinghumor.Themixturewentdownrealsmooth,thankstohisflirtationskillsandahintofSoutherncharm.Nodoubt,hewaslethaltoawoman’scommonsense.Morganswallowed.
Thewaitercameby,andMasterJorderedacupofthickLouisianachicorycoffee.Sheshudderedwhenthewaiterbroughtittotheirtablemomentslater.
“Tellmemoreaboutyourshow.”Hiswordsshouldhavebeenaninvitation,butMorganheardthesubtlecommandinthem.Notharsh,notdriving.Buthisvoiceheldanoteofsteel—onethatmadeherstomachtighten…andherwombclench.
“TurnMeOncombinesinterviewsandfactstoexplorevariousfacetsofsexuallifeforboth
establishedcouplesandthenewlydating,fromthevanillatothewayoutthere.Lastseason,Ididashowoneweekaboutsexetiquetteonafirstdate,anotherabout‘friendswithbenefits,’thenfolloweditupwithcoupleswhohadtattoofantasies.Thiswillbemysecondseason,andIwasthrilledtoberenewed.Sincethenetworkprovidescableprogramminggearedtowardwomenandcouples,Ithinkit’saperfectfit.”
“Hmm.Tellmeaboutthisseason’sshows.”
Again,anothersubtlecommand.“Well,we’restillattheideasstage,butwe’redefinitely
pursuingshowsaboutboudoirphotography,couplesmassage,eroticfingerpaintingand—“
“AndDominanceandsubmission.”
Morganswallowed.She’dbeencaughtupinenthusiasmforhershowandalmostforgottenthey
weregoingtodiscussthattopic.Thetopicthatfueledhershamefullate-nightfantasies.
“Yes.”
Hequirkedadarkbrowatherexpectantly,somehowmanagingtolooksharp,displeased,and
nonthreateningallatonce.
Puzzled,Morganstared.Whatdidhewant?
“Yes,sir,”sheventured.
Hissmiledazzled,rewarded.“Verynice.”
“Ithoughtsuchformsofaddresswerereservedforone’s…”
“Submissive?Frequently,butyoucontactedmeforaquicklessonortwo.Ithoughtitbesttostartwithahintofthedynamicandseehowyoudowithit.”Heleanedforward,anelbowbracedonthetable.Hisgazepoureddirectlyintoher,moltenandunrelenting.“Doyouunderstandwhatitmeanstosubmittoaman?Completelysurrender?”
Morgantriedtosuckinabreath,stunnedtofinditraggedbeyondhercontrol.Hiseyesflaredhotwithapproval.
“T—thisisn’taboutme,”shearguedbreathlessly.“Ijustneedtorelatetheconcepttothe—”
“Howcanyourelatewithoutatasteofit,cher?Alittlenibbleain’tgonnahurtyou.”Thesmileheflashedhercouldonlybetermedpuresin.“Youmightevenlikeit.”
That’sexactlywhatMorganwasafraidof.
Shedidherbesttosendhimanexpressionthatwasallbusiness.“Itdoesn’tmatterifIlikeit.
Afterall,Imanagedtofinishtapingtheshowaboutcouples’tattoofantasiessuccessfullywithoutevergettingatattoomyself.It’sallaboutunderstandingwhyit’simportanttothem.”
“Payingsomeonetoimprintadesignonyourskinwhileyoursignificantotherwatchesisalotlesspersonalthanbeingblindfolded,naked,andboundforyourmaster’spleasure.”
Withagulp,Morganrealizedhewasright.Worse,thatnibbleheofferedwasstartingtosoundlikeafeasttoherneglectedsexdrive.
No.Thistimearound,AdamwasofferingtheappleoftemptationtoEve,andshewassmart
enoughtoknowbetter.Ifsheseemedinterested,itwasbecausehefilledherheadwithsuggestion.Hewashardtoignore.Shewasn’tdepraved,wasn’tthekindofwomantogetoffonlettingabullychainherdownandtellherwhattodo.Theideawasjustnovel.Shehadapurelyintellectualcuriosityintheconcept.Okay,mostlyintellectual.Thatdidn’tmeansheshouldindulge.
EvenifMasterJlookedlikethekindofmanwhocouldhaveinventedtheconceptofpleasure.
“Whatareyouafraidof?”heasked.
Myself.
Shelookedawayfromhisintentgaze.“It’sjustnotmything.”
Thatdispleasedbrowsnappedupagain.Hisglarefilledwithimpatientdemand.
“Sir,”sheadded,almostagainstherwill.
Hisexpressionsoftened.“InthefewminutesI’vebeensittinghere,yourskinhasflushed,theheartbeatpulsingatyourneckhasaccelerated,andyournippleshavehardened.Iknowthescentofarousal.Icansmellyours.I’mgoingtoaskyouagain;whatareyouafraidof?”
Shockpunchedhergut.Oh,my…She’dbeenaseasytoreadasabook.Easier,even.Morganclosedhereyes,drewinabreath.Thenanother.Hermindraced.
“Don’tthinktoohard,”hecautioned.“Lyinginvokespunishment.”
“Punishment?Youhavenoright!”shereturnedinaheatedwhisper.
Hestaredforalongmoment.“Itoldyouyesterdayonlinethatarelationshipofthissortrequiresagreatdealoftrust.Itrustedthatyouwerewhoyousaidyouwere.Inordertoearnalittleofyourtrust,Iallowedyourproductionassistantaccesstosomeverypersonalinformationaboutme.That’sright.Noneedtolooksurprised.Iknewtheminutehestartedcallingaroundaboutme.IfIhadn’tadvisedmyclubsinadvancetheycouldgiveyourguyinformation,noonewouldhaveevensaidgoodmorningtoReggie,muchlessconfirmedthedetailsofmysexlife.”
Heshiftedinhisseat,brushinghisthighagainsthersagain,thenliftedherchinwithhisfinger.
Morganmelted—acombinationofshockandarousal,toppedwiththedeliciousthrillofMasterJ’soverwhelmingsexappeal.
“Trust,”hemurmured.“Iplacedsomeinyou.Ifwe’regoingtoworktogether,youneedtohaveabitinme.I’mnotgoingtoravishyouorforceyouoranyothermelodramaticscenariorunningthroughyourhead.IfI’mgoingtohelpyouunderstandthepsychologyofDominanceandsubmission,youhavetohaveenoughtrusttobehonestwithme.Andwithyourself.DoyouunderstandwhatI’msaying?”
“Y—yes,sir.”
“Excellent.Now,forthelasttime,whyareyouafraidoftheideaofsubmitting?”
Aloadedquestion,oneshedidn’tknowhowtoanswer.Rejection.Beingridiculedagain.Shame.
Fearofpainanddegradation.Astrongerfearthatshe’dlovebeingmasteredbysomeonelikehimandbeunabletodealwiththeshameandguilt.
Shecouldn’tadmitthat—notanyofit.Shemightaswellhandhimhersoulonasilverplatter.
“Please,”shewhispered.“Please…”
MasterJ’sjawtightened,hiseyesnarrowed.Forsomecrazyreason,shehatedlettinghimdown.
Sheowedhimnothing,damnit.Nothingatall.Hewasaninterviewsubjectandhe’dbecompensatedforhistimeandinformation.Period.
Fightingtheduelingimpulsesofresistinguntilhellfrozeoverandgivingin,ittookMorganafewmomentstorealizethattheirwaiterhadreturnedtorefillMasterJ’scoffee.Thentheyoungguylookedatherwithaconfoundedsortofsmile.
“Somedudepaidmetwentybuckstogivethistoyou.”
Hehandedheraregularmailingenvelope—withveryfamiliarhandwriting.
Thewaiterdeparted.
Herheartstartedpounding.Thespeedoflighthadnothingonherassheopenedtheenvelopetofindahandfulofredrosepetalswithsoftcentersanddeadedges.Theyspilledthroughherfingers,andshegasped,feelingallblooddrainfromherface.
“No…”Shelookedaroundthesunnysquarewithpanic.“No!”
“Morgan?”MasterJquestioned,voicelacedwithconcern.
Shelookedathimwithwildeyes.“He’shere.Here.Followedme.Oh,my…Ihavetogo.”Shesuckedinascaredbreathandclenchedtremblingfists.“Hide.Now!”
MasterJgrabbedherbytheshoulders.“Whoishereandwhereareyougoing?”
Shruggingfreeofhistouch,shelookedaroundfranticallyforanyfacethatmightbedangerousorfamiliar.Mostotherchairsinthesquaresatempty,asdidafewnearbywindowsandbalconies.
Shadowedstorefrontsheldanynumberofpeople,buttheyalllookedlikenatives.Thelittle
coffeehouse’sotherpatronseithertooklittlenoticeofherorcaredevenless.Likeeveryothertimeherstalkerhadapproached,he’dbeenassilentassmoke,asinvisibleasair.Panicateathergut.
“Ican’tstay.I’msorry…”
Hegrabbedheragain,lookingdeterminedtoshakeanswersoutofher.Instead,hefroze,hisgazezeroedinonsomethingacrossthestreet.
Morganfelttheenergyburstthroughhisbodyasecondbeforehepushedhertotheground.
“Down!”
Heshovedherunderatableandcoveredherbodywithhisaninstantbeforeagunshoteruptedaboveherhead.
CHAPTERTWO
JackColecurledhisbodyprotectivelyoverMorgan’stinyfemaleformandusedthe
smallirontabletoshieldherasanothershotrangout.Peoplearoundthemscreamed
andscrambledawayinthemelee.Hesworeasshetrembledviolentlybeneathhim.
Damnit!Revengewassoclose,andnowthis?Hecouldn’tfuckhisenemy’swoman
untilshescreamedhisnameifshewasdead.
Furyrattledthroughhim,butthefactsomeonewastryingtothwarthisrevenge
wasn’ttheonlyreason.Nope,hewasdownrightpissedthatsomeassholehadfilledsuch
asmallbutvibrantwomanwithcompleteterror.
Admittedly,he’dluredMorganheretouseher,butnevertophysicallyhurther.Just
theopposite.Hewouldfindoutwhatmadehertickandfulfilleveryoneofherfantasies
untilherbodyhummedwithsatisfaction.
UntilshenolongerhadanyinterestinBrandonRossandleftthesonofabitch
Thejackoffcurrentlyattheotherendofthegun,however,hadotherideas,like
plantingabulletbetweenhereyes.
AnothershudderwentthroughMorgan.Sheheldinacry.Jackhuggedhertighter,
shovingherrightagainsttheirontable.Savingherwasinstinct.Anoccupationalhazard.
Anecessity.BrandonRosshadearnedthisrevengethreeyearsago,andJackplannedto
deliverhimhumiliationinspades.Hewasn’tabouttoletMorgandie.
“I’llgetyououtofheresafely.”Hewhisperedthevowinherear.
Hischurninggutdemandedhedrawhis.38andreturnfire.Butthereweretoomany
peoplearoundtotakethatrisk.AndhesenseditwouldscarethehelloutofMorgan.
Shewasalreadyterrified,damnit.Shesmiledprettyforthecameraforaliving,not
dodgedbullets.
Whenthewaiterhaddeliveredthelettertotheirtableandhe’dseenthesweetflush
drainfromherface,leavingbehindchalk-whiteshockashalf-deadrosepetalsspilled
intoherhands,he’dsmelledherfear.Aftercatchingaglintofgunmetalinthesunlight
onaroofacrossthestreet…Jack’dhadnodoubtwhatwouldhappennext.
Hehatedtoberightaboutshitlikethis.
GlancingatthechairMorganhadoccupiedmomentsago,hesawthediscolored
gougesleftbyunforgivingbullets.Hesworeagain.
Beneathhim,Morgantriedtositup.Jackheldherinplace.
“Staydown!”
“Ineedtogo.Run.H—hide.”
Aquickglanceoverthetableattherooftopacrossthestreetshowedtheirshooter
hadfled.Eitherthat,orcomeinforaclosershotduringthechaos.Thatmeanttheywere
easytargetsandhehadtogetMorganoutofthisopenareafast.
“I’llgetyoutosafety,”Jackemphasized,draggingMorgantoherfeet.“Areyou
hurt?”
Sheshovedthehatbackoverherheadandtightenedthescarfbeneath,which
coveredherhair.“No.”
“Thenlet’srun!”
Hegrabbedhersmall,coldhandinhis.Engulfedit.Damn,shewastiny,much
smallerthanapowerfulnamelikeMorganimplied.
Takingoffasfastashislegswouldcarryhim,JacktuggedMorganbehindhim,
duckingbehindupturnedtableswhentheshotsrangoutagain.Hedraggedherbehind
thecoverofthecafé’scoffeebar,thenpulledheraroundthecornerofthebuilding,
silentlyurginghertokeepup.Shedid,clutchingherhatagainstherheadwithherspare
hand.JacklookedbeyondMorganwithafrown.Nowaytotelliftheshooterwas
followinginthiscrowd,butheassumedso.Bettersafethandead.
“Wherearewegoing?”
Jackdidn’tanswer;hewastoobusyimprovisingaplaninhishead.Insilence,he
pulledherupstreets,downalleys.Moregunshotsrangout.Abulletwhizzedpasthis
ear,andheswore.IfthissonofabitchharmedahaironMorgan’shead,Jackwasgoing
toenjoybeatinghimsenselesswithhisbarehands.
Duckingintoabusystore,theynarrowlyavoidedcrashingintoanelderlywoman.
Steppingasidesothescowlinggrandmaandherwalkercouldpasscostthemprecious
seconds.
Assoonasthepathcleared,hetookMorgan’ssmallhandinhisagainandtugged,
forcinghertorunagain.Outthebackofthestore,downanarrowwalkway,intoa
darkeningalley.ThankGodheknewthistownaswellastheshapeofhisownface.
Anotherseriesofstaccatoblastssoundedagain,thistimeinfrontofthestorethey’d
justexited.
Shit!
“Runfaster,cher.”
Panting,sweating,shemerelynodded.Andpickedupthepace.
Atthefarendofanalley,theycametoametaldoorwithscarredblackpaintandred
letteringthatreadSexySirens.Evenwiththedoorclosed,itvibratedwiththepounding
ofraucousmusicandtherowdycrowdinside—despitethefactitwasbarelythreeinthe
afternoon.
Fromexperience,Jackknewthedoorwouldbelocked.Raisingafist,hehammeredon
itwithallhismight,notcaringifheleftadent.Whilehewaited,helookedoverboth
shoulderstoseeiftheywerebeingfollowed.
Ablastofgunfireerupted,kickingupchunksofbricknotsixinchesfromMorgan’s
side.
Withaquickscanofthealley,hecursed.Itwasripewithtrashbinsandovergrown
withcrawlingvines,providingplentyofplacesforhershootertohide.
“Sonofabitch!”hebangedonthebeat-upmetalsurfaceagain.“Someoneanswerthe
damndoor.”
Finally,afamiliarbleachedblondewrenchedthedooropen.“Jesus,Jack.Whatthe
helliswrong?”
HepushedMorganinside,thenfollowedintothebackroomclutteredwithempty
beercans.“Shooteroutthere.Ineedyourhelp.”
Achild’sstickponyandaridingcroplayrightnexttothestageentrance.Angelique
hadapparentlyjustperformed.
Heslammedthedoorthedoorbehindhimandagainscannedthedarkenedroom,
illuminatedbyasingleredbulbanddecoratedwithpeelingblackpaint.Onethindoor
separatedthisareafrommainstageandthethrobbingmusicintheclubbeyond.
“Ashooter?Holy…Whohaveyoupissedoffnow?”
“Alyssa,thisisMorgan,”heshoutedoverthemusic.“She’sthehostessofacableTV
show—”
“You’reMorganO’Malley!IloveTurnMeOn!”
Morgan,whohaddoffedhersunglasses,extendedherhandtoAlyssa.Hmm.Blue
eyesrimmedinred,asmatteringoffreckles,veryfairskin—notBrandon’susualtype.
Buttimeschanged,hesupposed.
Jackdrawled,“ThenI’massumingyou’dliketohelpmekeepheralivelongenough
todomoreshows.Theshooterwasaimingather.”Jackturnedtotheotherwoman.
“Morgan,thisisAlyssaDevereaux,ownerofSexySirens.Themostfamous—orinfamous
—gentleman’sclubinsouthernLouisiana,dependingonyourpointofview.”
Brandon’slittlewomanflashedaweaksmile,tryingherdamndestnottostareat
Alyssa’sinch-thickmakeup,nearindecentskirt,andfuck-meboots.Therewasnothing
subtleaboutAlyssa.Shestilldressedlikeastripper,thoughshehadn’tdancedarounda
poleinyears.Shesuckedacocklikeawomantryingtoingestthebrassoffadoorknob.
Shehadworselanguagethanhim.Butshealsohadabig,bigheart.
Alyssawoulduseherwickedtonguetotaketheskinoffhisballsifshehadanyidea
thatMorganwasn’taclientbutthemeanstoachieverevenge.Shemightrunan
establishmentwherewomentooktheirclothesoffforhornymen,butshemadesureno
onecrossedthelinewithanygirlunderherroof.Jackplannedoncrossingeverylinehe
couldthinkof.
“Whywouldsomeoneshootatyou?”AlyssaaskedMorganwithafrown.
“Thatisaverygoodquestion,”Jackanswered,piercingMorganwithanunrelenting
gaze,onehehopedlikehellwouldpersuadehertotellhimthetruth.Hehadn’thadthe
chanceyettoestablishmorethanthebarestamountofauthority.Shehadlittlereasonto
trusthim.Damnit,anotherfewhours,andhewouldhavespenttimeinherbed,deepin
herbody,establishinghisdominance.Hewouldhavehadsomeassurancethatshe
wouldaccepthishelp.Asitwasnow…hehadnothing.
Notatallthewayhe’dplannedhisrevenge.
“Jack?”shesaidhisnameexperimentally,voiceerratic,stillshaking.
Hewasn’tpleasedtoheartheedgeoffearandwarinessinhervoice.Hemuch
preferredasultry“sir”comingfromthatpillowymouthwhileshepretended
indifference.
Butthey’dgetbacktothat,justassoonashegottothebottomofthisshit.
“Morgan,tellmewhat’sgoingon,cher?”
Herskinstillhadallthecolorofacorpse,especiallyframedbythedarkcoatandthe
floppyhat,whichwastoolargeforhersmallbody.Shewasterrifiedoutofhermind,but
stillmanagedtonod.Jackbreathedasighofrelief.
“A—aboutthreemonthsago,someonestartedsendingmemail.Picturesofmein
differentplaces,mostlypublic.Weird,butnotthreatening.Aboutfiveweeksago,he
startedtakingpicturesofmeinandaroundmyhouse,throughwindows.O—onehetook
ofmepullingoutofmydrivewaywhilehewasinmygarage.Icantellhe’sangry.Idon’t
knowwhy.
“IcametoHoustontobewitha…friendandtoescapehim.”Sheblewoutabreath,
forgedahead.“Hefollowedme.Ididn’tknowituntilyesterdaywhenthisarrived.”
Sheunzippedherboxycoatjustenoughtofishoutafolded-overenvelopefromthe
oversizedpursebisectingherchest.Morganhandedittohimwithashakinghand
Tensiongrippinghisgut,Jackrippeditopen.Picturesspilledout.Morganinan
airport,dressedinlow-risejeans,abaggyT-shirt,andherhairshovedintoabaseballcap.
Heonlyrecognizedherprofile,herstubbornchin,thefrecklesacrosshernosethatmade
himwonderhowfartheyextendeddownherbody.Theygavehimaninsaneurgetoplay
connectthedots.
Thenextonewasofherreadingamagazineonapatiochair.Themagazinecovered
herface.Hesawonlyherhands,thecoverofPeople,asplatteringofdelicatefreckleson
herarms—andsweet,unboundbreasts,nearlyvisiblethroughathinwhitetanktop,
withripecherrynipplesthatmadehismouthwater.
Fromtheinstanthe’dheardwhispersthatshewashisformerpalBrandon’sfiancée,
he’dbeenintrigued.Talkingtoheronlinehadonlyheightenedhisinterest.Morganin
thesepictures,intheflesh,engorgedhiscock.Hecouldn’twaittogetherboundtohis
bedandbeggingtocome—grantinghisrevenge.
Buttherewassomethingelseabouther…somethingpoundedhimwithfamiliarity.
Hefeltasifheshouldknowher,likehe’dseenherbeforeandnotjustherpictureonher
show’sWebsite.Hadheevermether?No,hewouldhaverememberedawomanlike
Morgan.Still,therewassomethingabouther.He’dfigureitout.
Swallowingalumpofrisinglust,Jackflippedtothelastpictureandfroze.The
always-elegantBrandonRossinadesignersuit.Hehadhisbacktothecameraashe
leaneddowntokissMorgan.Jackcouldseeonlyherhalf-barelegscoveredbyabitof
greensilkandblacklace,andthelightlyfreckledarmsshecurledaroundtheBrandon’s
neck.Thesightmadehisgutroll.
Andthehaphazardscrawlofthenoteatthebottomoftheenvelope,withits
ominous,possessivetonedidnothingtoeasehistension.
Thelastpicture,thewife-to-besayinggoodbyetohermanbeforeheleftforadayat
theoffice,alsoconfirmedthatMorganO’MalleywasBrandonRoss’swoman.Shewasthe
meanstopayhisoldbuddybackforhisstabintheback.HehadtogetMorganoutof
herealiveandundetectedtodoit.
“SothisstalkerfollowedyouherefromL.A.?”heasked.
“Yes.”Hervoicestillshook.
Jacksighed.“Dedicatedandsick.Notagoodcombination.Clearly,he’ssmartifhe’s
abletotakepicturesofyouwithoutyouknowingitorhisidentity.Heknowshisway
aroundagun.Idon’tthinkyoucanjustwalkoutofhereonyourownunharmed,
Morgan.Youneedhelp.Icangiveittoyou.”
Shehesitated,thenspokeinasurprisinglysmokyvoice.“You’vegottenmeoutofthe
pathofbulletsthatwouldhavelikelykilledme.Ican’taskyoutorisk—”
“Youdidn’task;I’moffering.”TheassholeclearlyknewhiswaytoBrandon’shouse,
andMorgandidn’tlooklikethekindofgirlwithtraininginweaponsandhand-to-hand
combat.Itwasuptohimtokeepheralive.“Morgan,I’mabodyguard.Iwon’twatchyou
diewhenIcangetyououtofhereinonepiece.”
“Howmuch?”
Jesus,someonehadbeenshootingatherandshewantedtobarter?“Onthehouse.”
Surprisewidenedhermouth.“Why?”
Hesentheracoolshrug.“Ifyou’redead,theregoesmyfifteenminutesoffame.”
Sheliftedherred-rimmedblueeyestohimandshothimacynicalglare.“Seriously.
It’sclearyou’renotafamemonger.”
Soshehadbettersensethantofallforhisline.ButJackstillwantedtomakeherlook
athimwiththoseinnocentblueeyeswhileheforce-fedhersomelogic.Shecouldn’tbe
saneanddenythatsheneededhelp.Butheunderstoodwhyshe’dtry.
Hewasarelativestranger—butthatwasn’theronlyhesitation.He’dbeteverydime
inhispocketonthat.Fromtheirbrieffacetimebeforetheshooterarrived,herealized
Morganhadsomeinterestinhim.Andthatshehadcuriosityabouthissexualleanings.
MorecuriositythansomeonemerelyresearchingaTVshow.Herreluctantarousaldrew
himlikenothinghadinyears.
“Thatstilldoesn’tchangethefactyouneedme.Theshooterknowsyou’reinthis
building.Youcan’tjustwalkoutnow.Icangetyououtofhere.”
Morgansetherjaw.Jackwatchedherfightingtheurgetobiteoffarefusal.She
didn’t,provingonceagainthatshewassmart.
“How?”
“You’lldressasAlyssa.She’llfixyouupwithappropriatelyinappropriateclothes.”
“She’llneedhelpwithmakeup,too,”Alyssapointedout.“Idon’thavefreckles,Jack.”
AquickglanceatMorganprovedshehadamerehintofcosmeticsonherpaleface.
“Yeah,okay.Doit.”
“No.Thisplanwon’twork,”Morganprotested.
“Yougotabetteridea,onethatdoesn’tendwithyouinapinebox?”
Waitingforhertoprocessthetruthhecouldn’taffordtosoftenforher,Jackwatched
Morgan.Upclose,hecouldseewellproportionedfeatures,afullmouth,anearlyporeless
complexionthatwastoofairtobecausedbyanythingbutfear.Archedbrowsinsome
indiscerniblecolorinthisdimlight.WithoutDracula’scomplexion,thecrappyhatand
scarf,orthethree-times-too-bigcoat,hesuspectedthat,asanall-aroundpackage,she’d
begorgeous.SenatorRoss’ssonwouldn’tsettleforless.
Shesighed.“Idon’thaveanyotherideas.”
“That’smypoint.Alyssa,takeMorganupstairsandputherinsomethingscanty.You
gotanymoreofthosewigs?”
“Yep.”Thebleachedblondenodded.
Morganglared.“Itstillwon’twork.”
“Because…?”
“AlyssaandI,we’renotthesame…size.”
Jackscannedthetwoofthem.“She’staller.Butyoucanwearherstilettobootstogive
yousomeaddedheight.Whatsizeshoedoyouwear?”
Shelookedstartledbythequestion.“Sixandahalf.”
JacksentAlyssaaquestioninglook.
“Hell,no,”saidtheformerstripper.“Iwearaneight.”
“We’llworkaroundit,”Jacksaid.“We’llshovetoiletpaperinthetoesofthebootsor
something.It’stemporary.”
“That’snotthebiggestproblem.”Morgan’sgazedriftedoverAlyssa’ssurgically
enhancedattributes,currentlystrugglingtostaywithintheconfinesofabikinitop.
JacklethisgazecascadeoverMorgan’ssmallformagain.Hecouldn’tseemuchofher
beneaththecoat,butthepictureshe’dseentoldhimthatwhatshehadundertherewas
a100percentnaturalandnotonparwithAlyssa’sDcups.
“Alyssahasaknackforpickingoutclothesthatmakeanywomanlookbodacious
enoughtobeacenterfold.”
“Thenwhat?”Morganfidgetednervously,hergazedartingtothedoor,asifexpecting
herunwantedadmirertoburstthroughitatanysecond.
“We’llneedtoslippastthisbastardandgetyoutosafety.”
“Andthen?”
“We’llcrossthatbridgeoncewe’vemadeourwayoutofhere,okay?I’llgetyouto
someplacesafeuntilthismesscanbesortedout.”
Morganbitonebee-stunglip,eyesanxiousandwary.Shewantedtoagreebutdidn’t
trusthimcompletely.Jackcouldseethatonherface.Still,shehesitated,meetinghis
gazesquarely,asiftakinghismeasure.Jackwonderedhowmuch,ifany,Morganknew
aboutthepast.HadBrandonevermentionedhim?
“Thissonofabitchhasbeentenaciousuntilnow,I’msure,buthe’sneverdealtwith
me.I’mnotgoingtolethimcomewithinahundredyardsofyou,Morgan.”
Shehesitatedaninstantlonger,thensenthimashakynod.“You’retheprofessional.
We’lldealwithwhat’snextoncewe’reawayfromhere.”
Whatwasnextwouldinvolvehernakedandcuffedandopentothecomplete
pleasurehewasimpatienttogiveher.Repressingasmile,heaffixedhisgazetothe
puffedpoutofherlowerlip.Somethingabouther,eveninherawfulgetup,madethe
maninhimtakenotice.OrwasittheknowledgethatshebelongedtoBrandon?
No,itwasmore.Underthatuglyhat,scarf,andcoat,hecouldtellMorganwasone
damnprettywoman—somehowinnocentandfresh,butalsosexy,sassy,expressive.
Corruptingherwouldbeatreat.Hisdesirechuggedupanothernotch.
Whoknewrevengewouldbesosatisfyingineveryway?#
Surroundedbymusicpulsingsoloudthatthewallsshook,Morganmadeherwayup
theclub’snarrowstairs,followingAlyssa,theblondewhoapparentlyownedSexySirens.
Morganhadnoideahowanyonewithdecentvisionwouldevermistakeherforthe
stripper,nomatterhowmuchmakeupsheslatheredon.Alyssahadaningrained
sexualitythatjustabouteverywomanwishedfor…andsofewpossessed.
Still,Morganknewshehadtotry,putonherbestactuntilshecouldescapeLafayette
andthepsychohuntingher.Theonlyalternativewasdeath.
Likeitornot,thatmadeMasterJ—whoserealnamewasapparentlyJackanda
relativestranger—heronlyhopeforsalvation.
Withafewglancesandfewerwords,Jackhadmadeitclearhewasnosaint.Even
now,shefelthisgazeburnherback.Againstherwill,shepeeredoverhershoulder.Jack
staredupwithanintentgaze,eyeslookingnearlyblack,ashewatchedherascendthe
stairs.Aspeculativesmilecreasedthechiseledfeaturesofhisstrong-jawedface.
Sheknewabsolutelynothingabouttheman,exceptthathehadthekindoflooksthat
madewomendodoubletakesanddrool.Oh,andthathelikedtodominateinbed.Hard
toforgetthat.Buthissmilemadehernervous.Whywouldanyonelookhappyinthe
aftermathofanearshooting?
Finally,sheandAlyssareachedthetopofthelanding.Theblondeledherthrough
thedoorattheendofthehall,intoasmallbutsurprisingluxurioussuite.
Alyssashutthedoorbehindthem,blockingouttheloudestofthemusic’sthrob.The
floorbeneaththemstillshook.Thesexytemporesonatedaroundher,starkinits
suggestion.
Morganlookedaroundtheroom.Alarge,rumpledbedlazedinthecenter,asa
standinglampcastmutedgoldenlightoverthewhitesheets.Hardwoodfloorsgleamed
cherrybeneathherfeet.Softbeigewallsaccentedflowingwhitesheersatthelarge
window.Fourblack-and-whitelandscapephotographsformedagroupingabovethebed.
“Youwereexpectingaredbedroomwithastripperpoleinthemiddle?”Alyssaasked
withacockedbrow.
EmbarrassmentstungMorgan.Shehadwondered…“Ihadnoideawhattoexpect.
Thisislovely.”
SomeofthestarchbledoutofAlyssa.“It’speaceful.C’mon,let’sgetyououtofthat
uglyrag.”
Beforeshecouldaskforprivacyandabathrobe,AlyssawasunbuttoningMorgan’s
coatandpryingitoffhershoulders.
Withacasualtosstothebed,thecoatflewaway.Likethemomofatoddler,Alyssa
reachednextforMorgan’spurseandsubduedfloral-printT-shirt.Beforeshecould
sputteraprotest,thestripperhadthemoverherheadandtossedthemonthefloor.
“Ifyou’llpointmetoabathroom,Icanundress—”
Alyssaignoredherandpluckedatthefrontclaspofherlacywhitebra.Withadrag
andatug,itwasgone…andMorganstoodnudefromthewaistupbeforeatotalstranger.
AlyssastudiedMorgan’sbreasts,liftingoneinherhandtotestitsweight.“Wecan
workwiththese.”
Morgantensed,resistingtheurgetocoverherselflikeaself-consciousseventhgrader
inalockerroom.“Whatareyoudoing?”
“Youdon’thaveanythingIain’tseen,honey.34C.”Anotherglanceovertherestof
herbody,andAlyssaadded,“Youwearasizesix.Right?”
“Howdidyouknow?”
Shesmiled.“It’smybusiness.Stripoutofeverythingelseandhangtight.”
Alyssadisappearedoutthedoor,shuttingitgentlybehindher.Morganstaredafter
her.Stripoutofeverythingelse?Likeitwaseasy.Likeshetookherclothesoffeveryday
infrontofpeopleshe’dnevermet.Well,Alyssaprobablydid,soitprobablydidn’tfaze
herintheleast.AndMorganrealizedthatifshewantedtogetoutofherewithouta
bulletinthehead,she’dbettergetoverhermodestyquickly.
Withasigh,shetookoffherjeansandwhitecottonpanties,foldingthemneatlyand
settingthemontheedgeofthebed.Shelookedaroundforarobeorspareblanket.A
towel—anythingtocoverherself.Nothing.Morganwasnotaccustomedtoprancing
aroundwithoutastitchon.Clearly,thatdidn’ttroubleAlyssa.
Theblondereturnedwithablacksatinbraandamatchingthong.Withherteeth,she
rippedthetagsoff,slippedapairofgelinsertsintothebra,andhandeditalltoMorgan.
BeforeMorgancouldaskforprivacy,Alyssadisappearedagain,thistimeintothe
suite’sadjoiningbathroom.Gratefulforthereprievefromthewoman’skeengaze,
Morganwriggledintothethong.Notcomfortable—whowantedastringuptheirass?—
butaperfectfit.
Alyssaemergedfromthebathroom,carryingsomeverybriefgarmentsandherblack
high-heeledboots.Inthedoorway,theblondepaused,waiting.Morganpretendednotto
noticeher.Instead,shefrownedatthegelinsertsinthebra.Thegrown-upversionof
wadded-uptissues?
WhenMorganwinced,Alyssalaughed.“Yougottadowhatyougottado.They’relike
aninstantboobjob.Withclotheson,noonewillknowthedifference.”
Releasingthebreathshe’dbeenholding,Morganrealizedthatwaslikelytrue.She
hadnobusinessbemoaningthefactshewasn’taDcup.
Morganbegantodonthebra,acutelyawareofAlyssawatchinghereverymove.It
wasdamnuncomfortable.She’dkilltohaveAlyssa’seasyattitudeaboutnudity,butshe
justhadn’tbeenraisedthatway.Shehadbeennearlytwenty-onebeforeshe’dworkedup
thenervetomasturbate.Afterall,withaborn-againmotherwho’dsenthertoanall-
girls’school,she’dheardlittleaboutsexbeforeturningeighteen.Untilshe’dgoneto
college,Morganhadn’treallyknownthedifferencebetweenhercuticlesandherclit.
Pushingawaythethought,Morganfastenedthebraandliftedherbreastsintothe
cups—whattherewasofthem.Thebrawasslunglowonwire-thinstraps.Aslashof
blacklacebarelycoveredeachofhernipples.Thegelinsertspushedthetopswellsofher
breastsupandoutondisplay.Instantcleavage.
Alyssawhistledandshotherasaucylook.“I’llgiveyouapieceofadvice:Don’tshow
Jackyourtitsunlessyouwanttodrivehiminsanewithlust.”
Theblondeturnedaway,headingbackintothebathroom.Morganstaredatthe
woman’sslenderbackandsilkyblondestrandsclingingtohershoulders.
CenterfoldswerelessattractivethanAlyssa.Thoughprobablyoverthirty,shewas
stillverystriking.Morganknewforafact,basedonReggie’sextensiveresearch,Jack
wasn’tgay.Giventhosefacts,itseemedlogicalthatheandAlyssawere…involved.From
thewoman’soffhandedcomment,itsoundedlikeAlyssadidn’tcareifsheenticedJack.
Lord,she’dleftLosAngeles,whereshe’dalwaysthoughtoflifeasbeingsomewhat
surreal,andlandedinCajuncountry,aplaceshebegantosuspectwasthesouth’s
versionofOz.
“Idon’tplantoshowJackmybreasts,”shesaid,adjustingthebra,wishingformore
cover.
“Maybenot,buttenbuckssaysheplanstoseethem.”
Morganfrowned.“Basedonwhat?IwasinterviewingJackformyshow.Andthen,
whentheshootingstarted,heofferedtoprotectme—”
“Andhewill.He’sthebest.ButJackColeisabreastman,andyou’vegotagreat
rack.”
Asifshe’djustannouncedsomethingasmundaneasnightfalling,Alyssaturnedand
liftedamakeupcaseoffthecounter.Settingthecaseaside,ShestudiedMorgan’sface
withnothingmorethanamildcaseofimpatience.
“Thatdoesn’tbotheryou?”Morgancouldn’tresistasking.
Hergazestrayedtothebedding,lookingtoorumpledtobecausedbymeresleep.
MorganwonderedifJackhadbeenherebeforemeetingher—andwhythethought
botheredher.
“ThatJackmightfuckyou?”Sheshrugged.“He’snotmine.”
Morganfrowned.Tooweird.“Nothing’sgoingtohappenbetweenus.Ihaveno
intentionofgettinginvolvedwithJack.”
“Theroadtohellispavedwithgoodintentions,”Alyssashotbackwithathroaty
laugh.
BeforeMorgancouldwadethroughherconfusionandreply,theblondeswitched
topicsagain.“Let’sgetyourmake-upon.”
AlyssaliftedaslenderhandandtookthestrawhatandscarffromMorgan’shead.
Amomentlater,shebeganhercosmeticsfrenzy.AthickfoundationcoatedMorgan’s
face.Concealercamenext,andMorganhopeditwouldcovertheworstofthedamage
wroughtfrommissingsomuchsleep.Nextcamethebrightrosyblush,thesiren-red
lipstickpaintedonthicklywithabrush.Darkeyelinerandeyeshadowwasappliedina
quickblur.Blackmascarafollowed,liftingandseparatingherlashes.Aneyebrowpencil
andbrownmascarahidthefactthatherbrowswerenotthesamepalebrownasthe
otherwoman’s.
WhenAlyssasteppedawayandproddedherintothebathroombeforethemirror,
Morganonlyrecognizedherblueeyesandthebasicovalofherface.
“Youlookgreat.Hell,mosteveryoneouttherewillprobablybetoodrunktonotice
whetheryou’remeornot.Butjustincasethey’renot,theclothesI’vepickedoutwill
ensurenoman’sgazegetsaboveyourtits.”
Morganwantedtoprotest—thewordslayonthetipofhertongue.Shestilledthem.If
dressinglikeastripperkeptheralive,well…shecouldsurviveembarrassmentmuch
betterthanabullettothehead.
“Whateverworks,”Morganbreathed.
“Let’sgetthishairpinnedupandthewigon.”
“Icanmanage.”Morganliftedherfingerstoherheadandrubbed.
“Wigscanbesuchabitch.Sorryyou’llhavetowearone,buttopassforme,youhave
tolookblonde.”
Morganshrugged.Thediscomfortwasasmallpricetopaytostaysafe.
“Andmakesureit’songood.Jackwillwanttoinspectyoubeforeyouleave.Hewon’t
letyousetfootoutsideuntilhe’sconvincedyoucanpassthetest.Hetakesprotecting
clientsseriously.”
TheideaofJackinspectinghermadeherstomachjump.Jackwasgorgeous,andthe
facthewasadominantmanonlyintriguedMorganmore,despiteherwarinessandfear.
Securingthelongblondewiginplace,Morganpushedthethoughtaway.Shewasjust
tired.Lordknewshewasstressed.ShewouldnotbehavingsexwithJack,sohissexual
preferencesmadeabsolutelynodifferencetoher.
Someonepoundedonthedoor.Morganstarted,herheartracing.Hadtheshooter
managedtofollowherhere?Shecuthergazetothewindow,hopingitmightprovetobe
anescaperoute.
Thenthedooropened.Jackentered,wearingarattyT-shirtandfadedjeans,a
backwardbaseballcap,andafalsemoustache.Thosefewexternalchangesmadehim
lookconsiderablydifferent.Butshestillcouldn’tmisshispissed-offexpression.
“Damnit,whatareyoutwodoinginhere,havingaslumberparty?”
“Biteme,Jack.IworkedasfastasIcouldsinceIneedtogetbacktobusiness,”Alyssa
saidwithasmile,thenkissedhischeek.“Andgoodlucktoyou,”shethrewbackto
Morgan.
Thensheexited,leavingMorganalonewithJack.
Hisgazeflewacrosstheroomandlatchedontoher.Blackeyesscorchedher,anda
slow,sinfulsmilespreadacrosshismouth.Thatlookmadeherstomachclench.Quickly
realizingsheworenothingbutarevealingbraandthong,sheglancedaroundfor
something—anything—tocoverher.
Shedartedacrosstheroomandreachedforthewhitesatinsheetdrapedoffthebed.
Jackrippeditoutofherhand.
“Notimeformodesty,cher,”hewhisperedinherear,hisvoiceinflectedwithalilt
thatwasdecidedlyCajunFrench.
Hisbodybuffetedherbackside,legsglancinghers,chestbrushinghershoulders.The
heathegaveoffwarmedskinshehadn’trealizedwaschilled.Despitehisheat,goose
bumpsmultipliedtheirwayacrossherskinandashiverrandownherspine.Hernipples
madeasudden,unwelcomeappearance.
Sheswallowed.Hemightbeoneofthegoodguys,butatthemoment,hisposture
waspurepredator.
“Idon’tneedyouinherewhileIgetdressed.”
“Maisyeah,toobadforyouIplantosupervise.Wearen’tleavinghereuntilI’m
convincedyoucanpassforAlyssa.”
“I’vebeenputtingonmyownclothessinceIwasthree.IthinkIcanmanagealone.”
“True,butIuseAlyssaascoverforcases.Wewalkaroundpretendingwe’redrunkon
hurricanesandsex.Peopleareusedtoseeingmetouchher.Often.Butyou…”Hesnaked
ahandaroundherandlaidapalmflatonherbelly.
Shejerkedandgaspedwhenhisbroadhandblanketedherbaremidriff,hisheat
seepingunderherskin,insidious,unstoppable.
“You,”hemurmuredinherear,“jumpwhenItouchyou.Youdothatinpublic,and
peoplewillknowyou’renotAlyssa.”
Witheveryword,Jackmadehermoreawarethathewasmale—allmale—andshewas
female.Hehadthekindofpersonalpowerthatdrewher.Herstomachflippedwhenhe
spoke.Herbreastsswelled.Shefeltjumpy,unsettled,whenhestoodtooclose.Morgan
swallowedtensionsothickshethoughtitmightchokeherandtriedtoeaseawayfrom
him.
Jackdidn’tbudge—orlethergo.
Gnashingherteeth,shesaid,“Theremustbeanotherwayoutofherebesidesyou
pawingme.”
“Iwouldn’ttakethatbet.Youwannamakeitoutinonepiece,cher,withoutyour
stalkerrecognizingyouthroughyourdisguise,you’vegottoactright.We’vegottolook
real.”
Thehandonherstomachstartedinchingslowlynorth.
Morgan’sbrainbuzzedwiththeintimationinhiswords.Hewouldtouchheroutin
public,wherecompletestrangerswouldsee.Instantly,herbreastsswelledagain
Moisturegatheredbetweenherlegs.
Thisisimpossible.Shewasn’tintopublicdisplays.AndJack’scavemantendencies
shouldn’tbearousingher.Havingsuchfantasieswasonething.Livingthem…thatwas
completelydifferent.Stupidtoindulge,especiallywithastranger.
Jackinterruptedherthoughtsbycradlingherbreastbetweenhisthumbandfingers
—andcontinuingtoinchup.
UntilMorganslappedherhandaroundhiswristtostophim.“Idon’tbelieveyou.
Youdon’tneedtotouchmethatintimatelytogetmeoutofhere.”
Hestoppedtheupwardprogressofhishand.“Lessthananhourwithme,and
suddenlyyou’rethesecurityexpert?”
“Thisisn’tagame.It’smylife!”
“Exactly,”hegrowledintoherear.“Locals,notnecessarilythetrustworthyones,will
beouttheretonight,seeingmewithawomantheythinkisAlyssa.Ifyou’regaspingand
fightingandpushingeverytimeIputahandonyou,they’llknowyou’reanimposter.
Andifthemanchasingyouoffersthemmoneyforinformationaboutasuspicious
female…you’llbeaneasytargettospot.”
Andaneasyonetokill.Jackdidn’tsayit,buthethoughtit.JustasMorgandid.
“Couldn’tIleavehereasabagladyoranunorsomething?”
“Yourgun-totingfriendisgoingtobewaiting,watching.Don’tyouthinkthe
emergenceofanunfromastripclubwouldsendupafewredflags?”
Hewasright,damnit.Shehadtogetagrip.Ifdressinglikeastripperandlettinga
good-lookingguyfondleherforafewminuteswasallittooktokeephersafe,she’d
survivetheembarrassmentandtheblowtohermodesty.
Therewasjustoneproblem:ShereactedtoJacknotlikeadecoy,butawoman.Her
bodyheatedforhimwithafewwhisperedwordsandaglance.Still,theembarrassment
shefeltforrespondingtohimwasshort-lived,particularlycomparedtodeath.Whenthis
fiascowasoverandshecouldfindanewplacetohide,she’dneverhavetoseeJackCole
againorcarethatheknewhecouldarouseher.
Takingadeepbreath,sheletgoofhiswrist.
“Smartgirl,”hepraised.
Morgansensedhim,hiswatchfulgazeoverhershoulderasheturnedhiswristuntil
herentirebreastrestedinhispalm.Sheswallowed.God,herfleshfeltheavyinhishot
hand.Hehoveredthere,breathscorchingthebackofherneck.Tensionrampedupinher
stomach…andlower,tighteningwithanacheshewantedtodeny—andcouldn’t.Her
nippleshardenedimpossiblyunderhishotgaze.Morgansqueezedhereyesshut.
Thenheswipedathumboverthetauttip.Electricpleasureshimmieddownher
spine.
Unabletoresist,shearched,pushingherbreastintohishand.
“Goodgirl,”hemutteredinherear,thengrazedthesensitivecurveofherneckwith
hislips.
Arousaltightenedagain,pulsinglowandhard.Herheartpoundedawaylikeahoard
ofhammeringcarpenters.Shesqueezedherthighstogether.
Hislefthandjoinedtheright,takingpossessionofherotherbreastinahotswarmof
fingers.Shedidn’tjump,butfoughttheneedtosquirm,aspleasurebatteredhersenses
withthedoubleassault.Ittookbitingherliptoholdinhergroan.
Whydidherbodyreactthiswaytoamanshedidn’tknowandwhopracticedasexual
lifeshedidn’tparticipatein?
Itceasedtomatterwhenhepinchedthehardpinpointsofhernipplesbetweenhis
fingers,rollingthemslowlywitheroticpatience.
Needspikedinherbelly,arrowingstraightdownbetweenherlegs.
“Jack…”sheprotested.
“Shh.You’redoingfine,cher.Aslongasyoudon’tactlikeI’munfamiliar,we’llbeall
right.”
Allright?Ifhedidthatagain,she’dbemelting.
Hedidn’t.Instead,hisrighthandleftherbreasttoglidedownherstomach,lower,
lower,untilhisfingersedgedunderneaththedampblacklaceofherthongand
unerringlyfoundherswelling,hungryclit.Shegaspedandtightenedherthighsagainst
him.God,he’dfeelhowwethemadeher.Thiswasridiculous.Hewasn’tgoingtotouch
herthereinpublic.
“Don’tdothat,”hewarned,withdrawinghishand.“Atensingbodyandoutraged
gaspswillgiveyouaway.Relax.”
“Thisisn’tnecessary,”sheargued,hervoicestrained.
Hesnortedacynicalsound.“Spokenlikeagirlwho’sneverrunfromakiller.He
followedushere.Didyouforget?”“No,andI’mnotagirl.”
“Non?Thenstoprespondinglikeone.It’sgoingtotakeadamnconvincingacttoget
outofhereinonepiece.I’mtryingtosaveyourlife,notstealwhatevervirtueyoumight
have.”
“Wouldn’tthiskindofbehaviorsimplydrawattention?”
“NewOrleansisn’ttheonlyplacethatcelebratesMardiGras.Thesunisgoingdown
now,andthepartyisabouttostart.Beingtoogoodwouldmakeusstandoutinthe
crowd,cher.”
Hewasprobablyright.Shehadtotrusthim.Shehadnoreasonnotto,sincehe’dkept
heralivesofar.“Sorry.”
Behindher,shefelthimnod.“Spreadyourlegs.”
Oh,God.Why?Whatdidhehaveplanned?
Morganfrozeinindecision.Ifonefingerbrushingherclitsentshockwavesthrough
herbody,whatmightawholehanddo?Wouldhelaughifsheorgasmed?Asitwas,she
feltcloserthanshewouldhavethoughtpossible…
“IfIneedtotieyoudowntogetyouaccustomedtomytouch,don’tthinkIwon’t.”
Athiswarninggrowl,afreshwaveofmoisturegushedfromher,coatingheralready
swollenflesh.Oh,howmortifying.IfJackrealizedshe’drespondedtothatthreat…She
shivered.
Withsurprisingforce,Jackwedgedabootedfootbetweenherbarefeetandpried
themapart.“Putyourhandsonthewallaboveyourhead.”
“What?”
Morganstruggledtocloseherlegs,onlytofindJack’shardthighbetweenthem.Lord,
wouldhefeelherjuicesleakingthroughthethongandontohisjeans?Thinkherweakor
easy?
“LasttimeI’mgoingtotellyou,”heswore.“Putyourhandsonthewallorthingswill
getawholelotmoreserious.”
Moreserious?Whatwasleft,besideshavingsex?Herbodyjumpedinanticipationat
thatthought.
“You’renotlistening…Iguessyouwanttobetieddown,Morgan.”
“No,”shesnappedandputherhandsonthewallhighaboveherhead.
Butshewasn’tsureshehadn’tlied.Theideaofbondagesoundedprimitiveandtacky
onthesurface.Somethingonlypeoplewhocouldn’trespondto“normal”sexdid.Butin
ahandfulofminutes,Jackhadforcedhertofaceherownfantasy.
“That’sbetter,butyou’vegottostopquestioningwhatIsay.Itellyou,youdoit.This
isn’tanegotiation.”
Thatgratedagainstherindependentnature…evenasitmadetheknotinherbelly
clenchtighter.
“You’rearrogant.”
“Andthatisn’tgoingtochange.Youbetterstartfollowingdirections,littlegirl,or
therewillbeconsequences.”
Morganwantedtorailathim,denythathispowerappealedtoher.Itwouldonlystart
afighttheydidn’thavetimetofinish.Ifshewantedtogetoutofherewithherpridein
tact,sheneededtoconvincehimshewasreadytoleavehereandfoolherstalker.And
sheneededtoconvincethepeoplethey’dseethatshewascompletelyfamiliarand
comfortablewithJacktouchingher.
“Yougotwhatyouwanted.Myhandsareagainstthewall.Iknowyou’regoingto
gropemeinpublic.I’llkeepanysurpriseordiscomforttomyself.Canweendthisnow?”
“You’renotready.”
“I’llbefine.”
“So,ifIdothis…”
Hishandslidbackinsideherthong,fingerscirclingherclitbeforedroppingdownto
herslickopening.Hepushedtwofingersdeepinsideher.Hislefthandtraveleddown
herstomach,thencoveredherclit.
Unabletohelpit,shegasped.
“See,you’renotready,”hesaidandbeganmassagingherclit,whilethefingers
embeddedinsidehertoyedwithheruntiltheyencounteredabundleofnervesMorgan
hadn’tknownshepossessed.Herubbedthereunmercifully,slow,insistentstrokes
rippingascreamoftinglesdeepinsideher.
Orgasmracedtowardher,likeacarspeedingthroughtrafficlightstotheedgeofa
cliff.Herchannelclenchedinweepinghungeraroundhisfingers,herbodybeggingfor
release.Histeethnippedatherneckagain.Thenhepressedhimselfagainsther
backside,grindinganunmistakablylargeerectionintothecleftbetweenherass
Atleastshewasn’ttheonlyoneaffected,shethoughtasherheadlolledbackonhis
shoulder,perspirationbreakingoutalloverherbodyashisfingerscontinuedtofillher,
toywithherclit.Herchestheavedwitheverybreath.Thiswasinsane.Madness!Theedge
ofpleasurewaskillingher.Whenhadsheeverbeensoarousedsoquickly?
Thefeelingsbuilt,untilshefeltpleasurefillherup,nearlytotheexplodingpoint.
Thenhewithdrewhistouch,easinghishandsoutofthethongandontoherhips.“No
coming,notunlessIsayso.”
Beforeshecouldstopit,awhimperescapedherthroat.
Jackkissedherneckagain,abrushoflips,astingofteeth.“You’llthankmelater.”
Morgancouldn’timaginewhyhethoughtso.Herbodywassotightlystrung.He’d
arousedhersothoroughly,shewastense,hermindracing.Ifhetouchedherinpublic,
she’dprobablyclimaxsoviciously,she’dblackout.
Hishandsgrazedupherabdomenagain,toherbreasts.Hefondledthem,rolledher
achingnipplesbetweenhisfingertipsoncemore.Shearchedintohishand,grindingher
assagainsttheimpressiveerectionbehindher,bitingherliptoholdinagroan.
Hesteppedawaywithalaugh.“Nicetry.”
“Jack…”Shedidn’twanttobeg.Really.Buthowwasshesupposedtokeepherwits
aroundthebadguyswhenherbodyachedsobadly?
“Areyougoingtoquestionmeagain?”
Thetoneofhisvoicetoldherthatwouldbeaverybadidea.Butleavingherwanting
likethiswasnobetter.Still,aglanceoverhershoulderathissuddenlyforbiddingface
stilledthepleaonhertongue.
“No.”
“AndifI—”hereacheddown,intoherthongoncemoreandrubbedherclitwithhis
finger—“didthis…”
Pleasureshotthroughheragain,freshandferocious.Shewhimperedandthrusther
hipsintohistouch.So,soclose…
Again,hewithdrew.“Excellent.Nowyoudon’tjerkawaywhenItouchyou.”
“You’regoingtoleavemelikethis?”
“Youinvitingmetodosomethingaboutitlater?”Hislowvoicerumbledlikegravel
inherear.
Jacklikedtotiewomendownandownthem,bodyandsoul.Thethoughtscreamed
throughhermind.Whatthehellhadshedone?
Lethimgetawaywithanything,everything…
“Notachanceinhell.”Shestiffened,tryingtodrawawayfromhim.
“That’stoobad.Ilikelittlegirlslikeyou,allstarchontheoutside,allcreamyonthe
inside.ThethoughtofhearingyouscreamyourthroatrawwhileIfuckyouturnsmeon.”
Oh,God.Her,too.“You’rethesubjectofaninterview.That’sall.”
“Yougetthatwetforeveryoneyoutalkto?”hemocked.
“Gotohell.”
Withachuckle,heswattedherbareasswithhiswidepalm.“Getdressed.”
Morganstartedtowhirlonhim,takehimdownforrevvingherup,butthenthesting
inherassturnedtopurefire.Instead,shefoundherselfbitingherliptoholdanother
groaninside.
Justgetyourclothesonandgetoutofhere.Thatwillmakeallthisgoaway.
StompingpastJack,Morganshimmiedintoanindecentlytightpurpleleatherskirt.
Nextsheputonamatchingleatherbustierthatemphasizedhersmallwaistandshoved
hercleavagesohigh,itwaspracticallyashelf.Allthewhile,shefeltJack’sgazeboring
intoherbackandtheacheofthelusthe’dcreatedsizzlingherbody.
Finally,shewriggledherfeetintoapairofblackthinheeledbootswithpointedtoes.
Shockingly,theywereactuallysomewhatcomfortable.
“Let’sgetoutthisoverwith,”shespat.
Heeyedher.“Youreadyforwhathappenswhenwewalkoutthisdoor?”
“We’dbearrestedifwedidmorethanwealreadyhaveinpublic,soitappearsI’ve
livedthroughyourworst.”
Heledheroutthedoorwithasmirk.“Youthinkso?”
CHAPTERTHREE
Jackmadehiswaydownthestairs,holdingMorgan’shand.Hebarelyrefrainedfrom
usingtheothertheadjustthelengthofhishardcockinhisjeans.Damn,thewoman
aboutmadehimbustazipper.
AftertheirepisodeinAlyssa’sbedroom,heknewseveralundeniablethingsabout
MorganO’Malley:One,shehadabodythatcalledtohim.Thewayshelooked,felt,
smelled—allofitreachedhimonaprimitivelevelandurgedhimtochipawayather
untilshesurrenderedcompletely.Two,she’dbeunbelievabletofuck.Highbreastswith
sensitivenipples,abeautifulmouthandanunexpectedindependentstreakthattoldhim
shewouldbebothatrialandatriumphtothemanwhocouldtameher.Three,shehada
widesubmissivestreak…anddidn’twanttoadmitit.Herwet,nearlyorgasmicreactions
tohisslightly—okay,way-over-thetop—demandsthatshebecomeaccustomedtohis
touchwereverytelling.Everytimehe’dthreatenedherwithbondage,she’dgushedwith
freshmoisture.He’dneededasurprisingamountofselfcontroltowithholdherorgasm
andkeepfromplunginghimselfdeepinsidehercuntwhileshehadit.
HeknewafewotherthingsaboutMorgan:Shedidn’tpanicorsurrenderintheface
ofdanger.Shewasscared,sure.Onlyanidiotwouldn’tfeelatleastatwingeoffear,
knowingthatastalkerwhofollowedheracrossthecountrytoendherlifestoodright
outsidethedoor.ButMorganhadlistenedtohislogic,pushedbackwhenshedisagreed
withofferedadvice,andresistedhisinitialoffersofassistance.Thosefactstoldhimalotabouther—andhowtodealwithher.Patience,persistence,acombinationoftenderness
andalphademands.
Last,ifMorganwasBrandonRoss’sfiancée,she’dbewastedontheboring,uptight
bastard.Brandonwouldignoretheneedshedidn’tunderstandandcouldn’tfulfill,
fantasiesJackwouldbethiseyeteethshehad.Satisfyingherfantasiesrequiredsomeone
withmoreballs,tenderness,andself-controlthanBrandoneverthoughtofpossessing.
HealmostfeltsorryforMorgan.Infact,hemightbedoingherafavorinthelongrun…
Butpitywasn’tgoingtostophimfromgettinghisoverduerevengeagainstthe
assholewho’dfuckeduphislife.
First,though,hehadtogetMorganoutoftheclubalive.
Astheyhitthedooratthebackofthedarkstripjoint,hedraggedherthrougha
curtainthatledtoabackstagearea.Abruptly,thepoundingmusicstoppedandwild
clappingbegan.Aslenderbrunettewithlargeartificialbreastswriggledherhipsatthe
crowdofmenshovingbillsinherminisculeG-string.Morganstared,clearly
uncomfortablewiththatmuchnudityandtouchingwithcompletestrangers.Good.
Despitethefacthe’dbeentodozensofplaceslikethis,hewantedawomanwillingand
eageronlyforhim,notawholeroomfullofstiffdicks.
Lookingawayfromthedancer,Jackscannedthecrowd.Heknewthemoodofthe
clientele,thefeelofrevelersseekinghedonisticfun.Acrossthesmokyroom,aguyin
jeansandablacksweaterlookedaroundtheroom,ratherthanatthestripperexitingthe
stageandgivingtheaudienceaprimeviewofherass.Afewfeetfromhim,anotherina
suitlurkedinthecorner,wearingawatchfulscowl.Hedidn’tfitin.Thebulgeinsidehis
jackethintedtoJackthattheguymighthaveashoulderholsterfullofweapon.
Eitherofthesedudes—orneither—couldbeMorgan’swould-beshooter.ButJack
knewtheycouldn’taffordtotakechances.
Asnonchalantlyaspossible,heturnedMorgantofacehimandcoveredtheirsudden
stopinthecrowdbypullingheragainsthimandplantingaseriesofkissesonherneck.
Shetensed.
“Cher,”hecalled.
Othersnearthemwouldhearanendearment.Morgan’snodtoldhimshetookitas
thewarningheintended.Sheforcedthetensionfromhershoulders.
“Iseeacoupleofmenwholooksuspicious,”hewhisperedonthesoft,softskinof
herneck.“Anyonelookfamiliar?”
Shehesitated,andJacktookadvantageofherdistractionandbreathedinhersweet
raspberryscent,brushedhislipsagainsthersoft-as-sinskin.
“Ican’tthinkwithyoudoingthat,”shewhisperedharshly.
Hedroppedahanddownherspine,overthecurveofherass,morebecausehe
wantedtothanbecauseitwasnecessary.Butithelpedwiththeimagethattheywere
loverswhocouldn’tkeeptheirhandstothemselves.
“Youcan.Youwill.”
Morganbreathedoutafour-letterword,andJacksmiled.Ifhercursehadn’ttoldhim
thathewasgettingtoher,thepulsepickingupspeedatthebaseofherneckwould.The
schemingpartofhimlovedknowingheaffectedher.Sodidhissexualside.Oh,hedidn’t
forgetthattheshooterwasprobablysomewherenear,buttheassholewastoosmartto
shootwithsomanyabletoseehisface.Andthesickjerkhadnoreasontobelievethat
Morganwasn’tAlyssa.
“Ican’tsee.It’ssmoky,andI’mtooshort.”
Trueonbothcounts.Damn!
Curvingbotharmsaroundherbody,JackanchoredMorganagainsthischest.Thetop
ofherheadbarelyreachedhisshoulder,remindinghimhowsmallshewas.Withherbig
personality,hersizewaseasytoforget.
Givenherstory,she’dbeenthroughawholelotlately.Hecouldn’thelpbutadmire
hergrittogoon,herstrengthtofight.
“Let’sgetoutofhere,justincaseoneofthemisyourgunhappynightmare.”
Morgannodded,buthefelthertrembling.Jackeasedbacktolookatherface.Under
thethickmakeup,herblueeyesclearlyreflectedtheknowledgethatshewasbeing
hunted.Butequalpartsfearanddeterminationtightenedherlushmouth.Shewasn’t
givingup.
Neitherwashe.
“I’mnotgoingtoletanythinghappentoyou,”heassuredher.“Takemyhand.Smile.
Goodenough.Now,followmeoutthedoor.”
Slowly,Jackwendedhiswaythroughthecrowd,workingthefarsideoftheroomas
muchaspossible.Hestoppedtoansweragreeting,enduresomebackslappingfromfrat
boyshe’dhelpedoutofascrapeonce,allofwhomassumedfuckingAlyssawouldbe
everyman’sversionofparadise.
Thesuspiciouscharacterscastglancesoverthemastheynearedthedoor.Thedude
withthesuitkepthisgazegluedtoMorgan.Jackcovertlywatchedthemanassessher,
eyesnarrowwithspeculation.RunningwouldonlyalerttheassholeifhewasMorgan’s
stalker.
Instead,JackwhirledMorganaroundandgrabbedher.Hereyeswentwideasheheld
herfacebetweenhispalmsandslantedhismouthoverherown.
Rightaway,hersoftnessassaultedhim.Afteragaspofprotest,JacksensedMorgan
forcingherselftorelax.Tosubmit.Atthepressofhislips,sheopenedtohimslowly,
slowly,withshyhesitancethatmadehimburnwithneed.Adeliciousuncertainty
flavoredherkiss,makinghimhardasapike.Butitwasn’tenough—eithertoconvince
theassassinchasingherortoassuagethehungerthatchurnedlikeaviolentstorminhis
gut.Hecouldn’twaitformore.
Agrowleruptedfromthisthroatashedoveintothekissandurgedhersoftlipsto
partwider.Heenteredhermouthwitharavagingthrustofhistongue.Andgroanedas
herwet,sugaryheatandhotcinnamon-spiceflavorexplodedacrosshissenses.Tangled
withthetasteofherfear.
Morganbegantokisshimtentatively.Unfurlingtohim,softening.Soon,sheuttered
asoftmoanandmatchedhisrhythm,hertongueseekinghiswhenheretreated.She
claspedhisshouldersandclung,slantingherheaduntiltheirmouthsfitperfectly.
Grippinghertightly,hesankdeeperintoher.Theflavoroffearonhertonguereceded.
Shetrembled—butnowherreactiondidn’thaveadamnthingtodowithfright.
Morgangasped…thensurrendered,openingcompletely.
Crushinghisdelightatherlushresponse,Jackpromisedhimselftherewouldbe
plentyoftimelatertofuckher,screwBrandonoutofabride,andenjoyeverymomentof
hersoft,shyresponses.Later.
Endingthekisswithanipofhisteethonherplushlowerlip,Jackopenedhiseyesin
timetoseetheslickinthesuittalkingtosomeoftheregularsaroundhim.Jackmade
sureheblockedMorganfromtheviewofguyswhohungouthereatleastonceaweek.
Hehopedlikehellnoneofthemwouldrememberthatthey’dneverseenhimkissAlyssa
likethat.
Mr.Suitlistened,thennoddedhisthanks.Disappointmentshadowedhisface.The
guyinthejeansandsweaterhaddisappeared.
“Ithinkwe’regoodtogo,”hemurmuredtoMorgan.“Let’sgetoutofhere.”
Again,hetookherhand.Heledherrightoutthefrontdoor.Thecrowdonthestreet
swallowedthemupquickly,andJacksmiled.
Oncethedangerhadpassed,onceheknewtheyhadn’tbeenfollowed,hecould
concentrateonMorgan—andeverydeliciouswayhecouldthinkoftomakeher
surrender.#
Withinminutes,Jackledhertohistruck,parkedonadarksidestreet.Morgan
hesitated.Brandonwouldn’tbehappythatshe’dlefthiscarbehind,butwhatwereher
otheroptions?Shecouldn’targuewithJack’slogicthatherstalkerwouldbelookingfor
itontheroadssincehe’dfollowedherhere.
Thatsettled,Jacktuckedherintothepassenger’sseatofhissleekblacktruck.She’d
havetobeblindnottoseehisgazelingeringonthelengthofherexposedthighand
cleavageofferedupbyAlyssa’spurpleleatherslutgarb.Themilesofskinitexposed
madeherwanttofindthenearesttentandthrowitonquickly.Anotherpartofher,
though,heatedathislook.Thearrowofneedthatshotstraighttoherstill-achingclit,
encouraginghertoinchherskirtabitmoreandflashJackacome-hitherglance.She
resistedthedangeroustemptation.
Thefamiliardarkdesire,coupledwiththestressanduncertainty,crashedinonher.
Howhadherlifegonedownhillsoquickly?Howhadshefoundherselfatthemercyofa
strangerwhomadeherachewithalongingthatshamedher?
“Don’tleer,”shesnapped.
Jacklookedawayinhisowngoodtime.“Whynot?Youlookgood.”
“Ilooklikeawhore.”
Fasterthanlightning,heleanedacrossthecabandcrowdedherpersonalspace.He
smelledlikemidnightandelementalmale.Likedanger.
“Youlookavailableandwilling.Youdon’tlookforsale.”
“It’sthesamething.”
“Non,itisnot.”
Jacksaidnothingmoreforlongmoments.Heeasedawayandstartedthetruck,then
pulledawayfromthetree-linedstreetandtookoffintothedusk.Thentheyheaded
southeast,towardtheheartofthebayou.
Withanotherhotglanceather,Jackfinallyexplained,“Whenawomanlooksforsale,
amancheckshiswalletbeforelookingtwice.Availableandwillingjustmakesamanhot.
Availableandwillingforhimalonemakesamanboilwithneed.Rightnow,I’mhardas
hell.”
Thenightbeganclosingaroundthemfinally,darkandabsolute.Morganswallowed
ThewayJacklookedatherthroughtheinkyclosenessofthetruck’scabgaveherpause.
Andifshewashonest,madeherwet.Didherealizethatshe’dneverdressedthis
provocativelyforanyman,foranyreason,before?
“Ifyouweremywoman,”hewenton,hisvoiceasandpaperwhisper,“you’dappear
elegantinpublic.Butinprivate…”Hesmiled,aflashofwhiteteeth,illuminatedbythe
moonlightdriftingintotheshadowedtruck;itwasasmilethatpromisedsatisfaction.“In
private,I’ddressyouinlessthanyou’rewearingnow.Muchless.Withoutthoseuseless
lacepantiesyou’rewearing.”
Morgancouldbarelycatchhernextbreath.Shedidn’twanttodresslikethis.Ithadto
lookcheapandeasy.
Yetshecouldnotdenyitalsomadeherfeelawareofherbody,ofherfemininepower.
Sexyandwantedanddesired.Howwasthatpossible?
“You’reawfullydirect.”
“I’mhonest,”headmitted.“What’sthepointoflying?”
“Oh,Idon’tknow.Tobepolite.”
Jacksimplysnorted.
“Andthesepantiesaren’tuseless.Theycovertheessentials.”
“Exactly.WhywouldIwantthosecovered?”
Shegaped.“I’mnotabouttoflasheveryoneinthefirstgoodbreezethatcomes
along.”
“Butifyouweremine,what’sunderthatskirtwouldbemine,notyours,toshowor
concealasIsawfit.”
Hiswordsburnedherwithshock—andterrible,unmistakabledesire.Shegasped.
“Shocked,cher?That’swhatsubmissionisallabout.Surrenderingcontrolutterlyto
someoneelse.Yourprivacy,yourbody,yourpleasure.”
Hesaidnothingforlongminutes,andMorganlostherselfinimagining.Woulda
dominantmanreallyinsisthispartnershowany—orall—ofherbodytoanyoneofhis
choosing?Anywhere?Atanytime?Shesquirmedinherseatatthethought.Itwas
disturbingandexploitative.Butsomelittlepartofherfoundhiswordsreluctantly
provocative.Forbidden.God,she’dgoneinsane.
Butcuriosityfollowedclosebehind.That,sheallowedfreerein.Shewasinterviewing
himaboutthisverysubject,afterall.Journalisticintegrityandallthat.
“Whatyou’resaying…itsoundsselfishandmean-spirited,toexposesomeone
withoutregardfortheirfeelings.”
“Itmightlookthatwayonthesurface.”
“Whatdoyoumean,onthesurface?”
“LikeItoldyouonline,oneofthejobsofagooddominantistoseeinsidethesoulof
hissubmissiveandgranthereverypleasureshedesires.Manysubmissivesaren’taware
oftheirmostsecretdesires.”Heturnedtofaceher,hischocolateeyespiercing,direct.
“Orfindthemshameful,sotheyrefusetoadmittothem.”
Hewastalkingtoher.Abouther.Withahotglance,hemadethatclear.Her
breathingshallowed,herheartbeataccelerated.Shecouldn’tignorethefactthather
stomach—andhernipples—wentachyandtight.
“Andyouforceawomantoengageinactsyoubelieveshesecretlydesires,even
thoughshemaynotwanttoacknowledgethem.”
“Shehastoacceptthemtofindtruesatisfaction.Myroleistohelpher.”
“What’sinitforyou?Imean,ifyou’realwaystryingtoreadhermindandpersuade
hertodonew,unusualthings…?”
“Newthingsthatmakehersohot,she’sgivingmetotalcontrolandisbeggingmeto
fuckherhoweverandwhereverIwant.I’msureyouseetheobviousbenefits.”
Yeah,hardtomissthatpoint.Wasitpossibletobesoarousedthatshewouldbegin
suchaway?AmentalpictureofJacktyingherdown,feelingherup,asshewrithed
underhishandexplodedacrossherbrain.Ablastofheatsizzledherbelly…andlower.
Godknewhisaggressivetouchearliertodayhadfloodedherwitharousalsofast,she’d
nearlybeendizzywithit.Andhiskisshadobliteratedmostthoughtsoffearand
hesitation,thecrowd,andherstalker.
Shedidn’tdoubthecouldmakeawomanbegforanything,everything.Ifshewasn’t
careful,didn’tkeepherdistance,shecouldquicklybecomeanothernotchonhis
bedpost.Worse,hecouldopenherpsycheandexposeallthehiddenfantasiesbetterleft
tothedarkcornersofhermind.
Timeforachangeofsubject.“ThankyouforgettingmeoutofLafayette.Iwould
havepanickedandrunwhenthebulletsstartedflying.Onmyown,Iwouldneverhave
beenabletoconcoctthisdisguiseand…distracthim.”
“That’smyjob,Morgan.”
“Youdidn’thavetodoit.”Then,recallingthewayhishandsroamedherbodyin
Alyssa’sbedroom,sheshothimasuspiciouslook.“Infact,Ithinkyoudidmorethan
yourjobrequired.”
“Thinkwhatyouwant.”Jack’ssmiletoldMorganthatherassertionamusedhim
“Iusuallydo.”Shegrittedherteeth,wishingsheknewhowtowipethatsmileoffhis
face.“Wherearewegoing?”
“I’vegotaplace.It’ssafe.Wecanhideyouthereuntilwefiguresomethingout.”
ThethoughtofbeinganywherenearJack,evenforjustafewdaysrattledher.“Maybe
IshouldrentacaranddrivebacktoHouston.I’vealreadyimposed—”
“He’llcatchonquickandfollowyou,Morgan.Thisguyisn’tstupid.Psycho,butnot
stupid.Youwanttobesafeordead?Besides,it’llbeagoodopportunityforyoutolearn
aboutDominanceandsubmission.Icanensureyou’llsoundlikeanexpertonyour
show.”
“IthinkIgetthepicture.”
“Cher,youhaven’tevenscratchedthesurface.”
“Idon’tneedyoutouchingmeanymore.”
Hissmilecouldhavemeltedbutter.“Youmaynotthinkyouneedit,butIknow
better.Youneediteverybitasmuchasyouwantit.”
Morgan’sjawdropped.“Youareonearrogantbastard.”
“You’resubmissive,andI’marrogant.Seehowwellwe’regettingtoknoweachother
already?”
Hisquipputhertemperinatwist.“Iamnot—That’sit!TakemebacktoLafayette.”
Hesentheranamusedglance.“Backtoyourfriend’scar,theoneyourstalker
probablyhashisprettyrifletrainedonaswespeak?”
Shebitherlip.Damnit.Whydidhehavetoberight?
“OrmaybeIshoulddropyouoffatthepolicestation,”hetaunted.“They’realwaysso
muchhelpinstalkercases.”
Clenchingherfists,Morgansaidnothing,againknowingspokethetruth.
“Ormaybe,youcouldhopaplanebacktoL.A.Howlongdoyouthinkitwouldbe
beforehestoppedshootingpicturesandtriedagaintoshootyoubetweentheeyes?You
gotadeathwish?”
“No.”Hervoicevibratedwiththeangershefeltcoursingthroughherbody.“Yougot
anoffbuttonforyourmouth?”
Jackjustsmiled.“You’retoosmarttowanttofaceakillermorethanyoursexuality,
Morgan.I’llaskyouthesamequestionIaskedbeforeyourstalkerstartedshooting:
Whatareyouafraidof?”
“I’mnothavingthisconversationwithyou.”
Heshrugged,asifhedidn’tcareaboutherresponseonewayortheother.“Fine.It’s
yourlife.AmItakingyoubacktoLafayetteorareyougoingtostaysafewithme?”
God,shewantedtoshockthebastard.Spitinhisfaceandverballycutoffhisballsby
demandinghetakeherbacktoBrandon’scarsoshecouldzoombacktoHouston,far
awayfromhischallengingwordsandhiswickedtouch.
Butonceagain,damnit,hewasright.Puttingherselfbackinthepathofakiller
becauseJackpushedafewofhersexualbuttonswasflatstupid.Shehadnoplacesafeto
go,anddespiteBrandon’ssuggestion,shewasnotcallingSenatorRoss.Hewouldn’tlift
afingertohelpher.
“I’llgowithyou,”shesaidthroughclenchedteeth.
“Goodgirl.We’vegotafewhourstotravelandit’sgettinglate.Trygettingsome
sleep.”
Morganwasn’tsureshecould.BeingthatvulnerablearoundamanlikeJack,
especiallywhileshestillhadastalkeronhertail.“I’mfine.”
“Itwasn’tasuggestion.We’renotbeingfollowed.Nooneisonthisroadformiles.”
Hegesturedtotheopenroadandfieldsaroundthem,completelydevoidofheadlights.
“You’resafeandyou’regoingtoneedyourstrengthlater,cher,incasewehaven’tlost
yourstalkerforgood.”
Shesighed,thenshothimareluctantglance.Again,hewasright.
Morgancrossedherarmsoverherchestandshiftedherbodytowardthepassenger
window.Butsoontherhythmicmotionofthecarlulledher.Sheclosedhereyesand
driftedoff.
Twohourslater,Jackstoppedthetruckatthewater’sedge,infrontoftheboat
waitingwherehe’dleftit.AfterhescrambledaboardwithagroggyMorgan,theycruised
downtheriverforawhile,JackpolinghiswaydowntheswampwithMorgandriftingin
andoutofsleepandshiveringintheFebruaryair.Hedidhisbesttoshelterherfromthe
windwithhisbody.Sheunconsciouslysnuggledintohimwhenhewrappedonearm
aroundher.
Thatgavehimahard-onsostiffithurt.
Theyreachedtheirdestinationshortlybeforeten.JackliftedaslumberingMorgan
intohisarms,settledherinhisgrasp,andheadedforthedarkcottage.
He’dexpectedtohavetotalkfastinLafayette,tohustleandsweet-talkhertoahotel
roomtogethisrevenge.Havingherhere,inhisdomain,wasbetter—andworse.Her
stalkerhadhelpedhimmaneuverMorganrightwherehewantedherandneverdreamed
he’dhaveher.HewouldhaveMorgantohimself,onhisturf,wherehecoulddevote
hourstoherseductionandhisrevenge.Sweet,yes.
ButJackcouldn’tpretendhersickstalkerdidn’tconcernhim.Atleasthere,withhim,
hecouldprotectherfromthepsychowho’dclearlydecidedthatifhecouldn’thave
Morgan,nooneelsewould.Hewouldkeephersafe;heowedherthatmuch.Particularly
sinceitwasclearMorgancouldnolongerfendforherselfandwasexhaustedbeyondher
endurance.
Butonabasicphysicallevel,shetrustedhim.Thattrustshimmeredthroughhis
body,bothhardeninghiscockandsofteninghisgut.Whyfightit?Helikedher,evenif
hehatedherfiancé’sguts.Shewasbyturnsfeistyandvulnerable,sharpandgullible.
Andforsomereasonsodamnedfamiliar,asifhe’dseenhersomewherebefore…
ShiftingMorganinhisgrasp,Jackshovedthekeyinthelock,thenthrustopenthe
door.InsidethelittleCraftsmancottage,cleanlinesandpinefloorsremindedhimofhis
boyhood,offishingwithhisgrand-pereBrice.Thisplaceneverfailedtoinspiregreat
memories,eveniftheoldfamilylegendshisgrandfathertoldheremadehimlaugh.
“Ah,soyoumadeit.”
Jackstarted—untilherecognizedthevoice.“Holyshit,oldman.Youtryingtoscare
metodeathsoyoucanhaveyourfishingholeback?”
Bricewavedhimaway.“Youwish.Iwouldn’thavethisplacebackfornothin’.Rat
trap.”
Jackknewbetter,butBricewastoooldtoliveouthere,sofarawayfromahospital.
“Theplaceisstockedwithfood.Thesecuritycameras,they’sallonandthegenerator
isrunning.Useitsparingly.”
“Thanks.IknewIcouldcountonyou.”
“Thisthegirlyoucalledabout,theonerunnin’forherlife?”Bricegesturedto
Morgan,whomJackstillheld.
“Yeah.”
Withnarrowedeyes,BricepeeredcloserandstaredatMorgan.“Yousurehe’snotjust
outtobedher?She’sonejoliefille,butshedresseslikeawhore,thatone.”
“It’sadisguise,Grand-pere.”
Bricefrownedhisgrayhead,disapprovalstillshadowinghisstrongfeatures.Smiling
tohimself,Jacksteppedaroundhisgrandfatherandheadedforthecottage’slone
bedroom.HesetMorgandownonthebed,thenbenttoremoveherblackboots.Ifhis
grandfatherweren’twatching,he’dpullofftherestofherclothesforthemerepleasure
oflookingather…butBricewouldbothdisapproveandgetaneyefulthatcoulddamage
hisheartateighty-two.
“Youstillbeenhavin’themdreams?”hisgrandfatheraskedsuddenly.
Jackrolledhiseyes,ruingthedayhe’dsaidanything.“Theydon’tmeananything.”
“Boy,youbeenraisedinthebayou,evenifthearmyandbigcityspoiledyousome.A
curseisacurse.Ifyou’redreamingaboutaredheadedwomanoverandover,you’re
abouttomeetherandshe’syourheart’smate.”
Herewegoagainwiththisbullshit,Jackthoughtwithasigh.IfBricewantedtouse
thelegendtojustifyhismarryinganunderagegirlsixtyyearsago,goodyforhim.Asit
was,Jackrefusedtobelievethatsomefacelesswomanhe’dseeninhisdreamswithred
hairglintingacrossbareshouldersindawn’slightwasdestinedtobehisoneandonly
love.Therewasnosuchthing.Theredheadwasjustafantasyfuckhismindhad
conjuredup.
“Well,Ihaven’tmetanyredheadslately,sothewholepointismoot.Dreamsdon’t
meanathing.”
“Youkeeptellin’yourselfthat,boy.She’llturnup.Won’tbelongnow.Didn’tyousay
you’dbeenhavingthosedreamsaboutfivemonths?”
Six,butwhowascounting?Jackshrugged.
“She’llmakeabelieveroutofyou,”Bricecontended.
“Whateveryousay,Grand-pere.”
Theoldmangrunted,knowingthatJackwasblowingoffthefamousfamilylegendhe
lovedsomuch.Thedreams…theyhadtobecoincidence,abyproductoflonelinessand
thefacthehadn’thadagoodlayinforever.Nothingelsemadesense.
“Well,thisoldmanistakinghisbodyhomeandgoingtobed.Needanythingelse,
boy?”
“We’llbefine.”
“Takecareoftajoliefille.”
Jacksighed.“She’snotmyprettygirl.”
Andforsomedamnreason,itannoyedhimtoadmitthat.Probablybecauseshewas
wastedonanassholelikeBrandonRoss.
Laughtercacklingwithbothamusementandage,Briceleft.Jackheardtheslamofthe
cottagedoorandreturnedtothebedroom.
Heturnedonthekerosenelampinthebedroom,whichemittedasoftglowover
Morgan.Shelookeduncomfortable,ashewatchedhertwistandmutterinhersleep.
Heremovedapairofgaudyearringshehadn’tnoticedbeforeandlaythemonthe
sidetable.Thepurpleleather…itwasn’tMorgan’sstyle,butwouldhavetostayfornow.
Tryingtotakeitoffwouldsurelywakeherup.Shrugging,herealizedhecouldonlydo
oneotherthingtomakehercomfortable.
Gently,Jackreachedunderthesleekblondewigandextractedapinhereandthere.
Shesighedinsleepyappreciationwhenheliftedthewigawayandtosseditonthetable
nexttotheearrings.
WhenJacklookedback,hefrownedandliftedthelampoverMorgan.
Itcouldn’tbe.Itcouldn’t.
Butwithmellowgoldenlightshiningdownonher,therewasnomistakingtheglint
ofherfieryredhair.
CHAPTERFOUR
Morganwoketoanunfamiliarroompervadedbyshadows.Mosquitonettingdraped
thewarm,well-usedbed.Beyondthat,anold-fashionedkerosenelamponanightstand
withmission-stylelinesdimlylittheroom.Wherewasshe?
Blinking,shesatupwithacreak.Shefrownedwhenshesawpurpleleatherstretched
acrosshertorsoandhips.Purpleleather?Her?Itwasn’tuncomfortable…buthadtobe
discomfitingtobeseenin.Whythehellwasshewearingit?
Thensherecalled.Herstalkershooting.MasterJ—no,Jack—totherescue,hisgaze
eatingupherflushedskin,hishandsonherbody.
Still,shehadtothankAlyssafortheshockinggetup.It,alongwithJackandhis
outrageousbehavior,hadgottenheroutofLafayettealive.
Adownybeigecomforterwarmedherlegs.Blacksheersfloatedattheroom’slone
window,madetransparentbythesilverymoonlight.Astoutdresserofwarm,old
cherrywoodsprawledagainstmostofthewallbesidethewindow.
Turningherhead,Morganskimmedtheotherhalfofthesmallbedroom.Theopen
doorledtobeautifulhardwoodfloors,whichgleamedinthedark,emptyhallway.
AndinthechairwedgedbetweenthedoorandanarmoiresatJack,shirtlessand
tousled,alert—andfocusedonher.
“Goodmorning,Morgan.”
Morning?Hisstaretouchedherthroughthemoonlitinkinessoftheroom,caressing
hercheek,sweepingoverhermouth,glidingdownhernecktotheriseofherbreasts
abovetheleatherbustier.Withjustaglance,heatbloomedinsideher.Eveneightfeet
away,thepotencyofhissexualitybroadcastinblaringwaves.Everythingtheyhaddone
inAlyssa’sbedroomcamebacktoherinarush…alongwithatight,naggingache
betweenherlegs.
Sherememberedeverything—thewayhe’dtouchedher,hiskiss,histouch,theway
hetookcontrol.Hismysteriousscent,hisgrowledwords—they’dintriguedher.Even
afterafewhours’sleep,nothinghadchanged.CuriosityanddesiregnawedatherasJack
stared,knowledgehotinhischocolateeyes.Theacheknottingherbodytightened.
Shecouldn’taffordthat,couldn’taffordhim.Morganlookedaway,breakingtheir
visualconnection.
Howhefelt,howshefelt—noneofitmattered.Shehadtofocusonstayingsafeand
doingresearchforhershow.DroolingovertheheavyslabsofmusclescoveringJack’s
shouldersandchestthatscreamedvirileandcontemplatingallthewayshecoulduse
thatpowertopleasureherwasn’tgoingtoimprovehershow—orherchancesofstaying
alive.
“Howareyou?Okay?”heasked.
“I’mfine,”shesaidfinally.“Whattimeisit?”
Heshruggedandglancedoutthewindow.“Aboutfiveinthemorning.Youcango
backtosleep.I’llbeheretowatchoveryou.”
Morganstaredback.TheknowledgethatJack’seyeswereonherwasreallygoingto
inducehertorolloverandsinkintodreamland.Asif.Shecouldhardlybreathewith
Jack’sgazealloverher.Sleepwouldbeimpossible.
Whatwasitaboutthisman?Sure,hewasyummy,butshe’ddatedgood-lookingguys
before.Somethingaboutthewayhestared?
Thetruthfinallyhitherlikeaslap.No,itwashisintensity,hisself-possession,hisairofcontrolledpower.She’dalwaysbeenasuckerformenofpower.Andunliketheother
meninherpast,MorganknewJackwastherealdeal.
Hewieldedoneoftheultimatepowers,asexualone.Hewouldn’tjusttieawoman
down;hewoulddictateherresponseandhis,beincompletecontrolofherbody,her
orgasms,andinthatmoment,herverysoul.
ThethoughtappealedtoMorganfarmorethanwaswise.
Easingtowardtheedgeofthebedtoputdistancebetweenthem,shesaid,“No,I’m
awake.Doyouwantthebedtocatchsomesleep?Icangetup.”
“Stay.”
Thesinglesyllablericochetedthroughherbody.Itwasacommand,pureandsimple.
Everyplaceitbouncedaroundinsideher,theheatintensified,confusingher.Shedidn’t
likebeingbossedaround—byanyone.ButJackbarkingordersathermadeher
uncomfortablyachyinallthewrongplaces.
Hell,maybeshewasjusthornyingeneral,andithadnothingtodowithJack.After
all,ithadbeennearlyayearsinceshe’dsplitupwithAndrew.
“I’vebeensleepinginthechair,”heclarified.
“Thatcan’tbecomfortable.”
Helaughed.“Cher,gospendafewmonthsinAfghanistanwiththearmy.Thischair
willseemliketheRitz.”
Morgannodded,concedingthepoint.
“Ifyou’reawake,Iwanttoaskyousomequestions.Youneedcoffeefirst?”
Sheshuddered.“Idon’tdrinkthevilebrew.Toobitter.”
AflashofwhiteteethtoldMorganthathesmiled.“Iwouldn’tsaythattooloud
aroundhere.We’reknownforourthickchicorycoffee.Notdrinkingthatissacrilege.”
“I’mlikelytoburninhellforsomeotherthingsinmylife,startingwithpaintingmy
cousin’sG.I.Joe’sfingernailspinkwhenIwasfive.I’lljustaddthattothelist.”
Jacklaughed,ascratchysandpapersound.“Wow,thatisvile.Satan’sgotaspecial
placereservedjustforyou.”
Morgannodded.Thentheroomturnedquiet.Themomentarybanterdriftedaway,
leavingatensesilenceinitsplace.Still,shefeltJack’sgazeonher,lingeringonherhair.
Self-consciously,shepushedthestrandsoffhershoulders,behindherback.“You
tookoffthewig.I—it’sred,”shestammered.“Myhair,Imean.”
Hehesitated.“Ididn’texpectthat.”
Hisstarechangedthen,turnedpensive.Morganfrowned.Whathadheexpected?
Whydidthecolormatter?Maybeheonlylikedblondes.Maybe…buthisstaresaid
otherwise.
“AndIseeyoutookofftheboots.”
“Theylookeduncomfortable.”
TheideaofJacktouchingherasshesleptunawareraisedtheheatcoilinginherbody
anothernotch.Hadhetouchedanythingmoreintimatethanherheadorfeet,whileshe
slept?
Thatquestionratchetedupherbodyheatagain,nowlaserfocusedbetweenherlegs.
Morgansquirmed,seekingrelief.Shedidn’tfindit.
“Whatdoyouwanttoaskme?”shesaid.Conversation,yes.Muchsaferthanstaring.
Jack’sslouchedpostureinstantlygavewaytoatautawareness.Heleanedforward,
balancinghiselbowsonhisknees.“Howaboutwestartwithanyoneyoucanthinkof
whomightwanttostalkandkillyou?”
Boom.Direct.Morganwasn’treallysurprised.Thatreallywastheheartofthematter,
afterall,andshesuspectedJackwouldbeaprettybottom-lineman.
“Honestly,Ican’tthinkofanyone.I’vehadweirdfanmail,butnotthisweird.”
“Itseemsasifthisguyknowsyouprettywell,whereyoulive,whereyourfriendsand
familylive,whereyoumightrunto.”Jack’seyesnarrowed.“Tellmeaboutyour
relationships.”
“Whatdoyoumean?”
“Previouslovers,”Jack’sraspyvoicedemandedasintriguingshadowsplayedacross
thehardanglesofhisfaceandtorso.Shecouldstareatthemanforhoursandneverbe
bored.Hotandbothered,yes.Butneverbored.
Damnit,sheneededtokeephermindonhersafety,hershow,notherprotector
himself.
Sheshookherhead.“Thelastoneleftme,nottheotherwayaround,soIdoubthe’d
suddenlydemandthatIbelongedonlytohim.”
“Beforehim?”hebarked.
Morganfeltaflushcreepupherneck.“Iwasinvolvedwithaprofootballplayera
whileago,butwhenthisstartedhappening,hewouldhavebeenontheroad,sohe
couldn’tbetakingpicturesandleavingthemforme.Idatedanambassadorbriefly.He’s
currentlyabroad.Soit’snothim,either.Ihookedupwithaguyincollegewho’smarried
withadaughternow.”
“Whoelse?”
“Whoelsewhat?”
Thelineofhisjawhardened.“Whoelsehaveyouletfuckyou?”
Theintensityofhisvoice—andthewords—suggestedthatheaskedforreasonsthat
weren’tstrictlyprofessional.
“You’regettingawfullypersonal,nottomentioncrude.”
“Justgettingafulllistofsuspectsandcuttingtothechase,cher.Answerme.”
Hisno-nonsensetonehadreturned,andshefounditoddlydifficulttoargue.“Noone
else.Actually,Ididn’tevensleepwithAmbassadorSweeny.”
“Threepastlovers?”Jackasked,curiosityripeinhisvoice.“Nomore?”
Shesupposedthathavingonlythreeloversbytheripeageoftwenty-fivemadeheran
anomaly.Butshewasn’tgoingtogivehimallthedetailsabouthersexlifejustto
appeasehiscuriosity.Thepointofthisexchangemightbetobuildalistofsuspects,but
thelow-voicedprobinginhistonehadasexualedgethatshoutedwarning.
Andhewouldn’tstopstaring.Witheveryclinginggaze,helashedMorganwith
memoriesofhiskiss,histouch,thewayhetookcontrol.Herbodykeptwarminglikean
ovenonpre-heat.
“Whydoesitmatter?”Morganshotback,awareshewasdodgingthequestion.
“Aren’tthemostimportantfactsthatthismonsterknowsmyhabits,myfriends,family,
andtheplacesI’mlikelytogo?”
Heshrugged.“Cher,thereisn’tamanalivewhoisn’twillingtokilltogetawoman
he’strulydesperatefor.Butifshe’srunningfromhim,thwartingbothhimandhislust…
thatmancangetahelloflotmoreruthless.”
Withashiver,MorganwonderedifJacksomehowmeanttoimplythatdescription
couldapplytomorethanjustherstalker.Didheincludehimselfinthatgroup?
Somehow,shedidn’tpictureJackneedingalotofexcusestogetruthless,butshealso
didn’tpicturealotofwomenturninghimdown.
“He’sespeciallydangerousifhe’salreadyhadatasteofwhathe’smissing.Ineedto
knowallthepossibilitiessoIcancheckthemout,runthemdown.Thenwe’llgettoyour
otherquestions.Now,you’vehadjustthosethreelovers?”
“Yes.”
“Ineednames,vitalstatistics,age,andlastknownaddressestostartdigging.”
“Thisisembarrassing.”
“Thisiscritical.Starttalking.”
Morgansighed,squirmedinherplace,andlookeddownatherhandsfoldedinher
lap.“SeanGardneris…aboutfive-ten,maybe.Sandyhair,browneyes.Ithinkhe’s
twenty-eightbynow.LastIheardhe’slivingwithhiswifeandkidinSanDiego.”
“Andhewasthefirst?”
Shenodded.“WhenIwasasophomoreincollege,yes.”
“Whendidyouseehimlast?”
“Aboutfouryearsago,justafterhegraduated.Weonlydatedsixmonthsorso.It
wasn’tthatserious.”
“Butyougavehimyourvirginity?”
“Ialreadysaidthat.”
“Why?”
“I’mnotansweringthat.Thatgoesbeyondnameandvitalstatistics.”
“Ineedtoestablishmotivation,cher.Maybehestillthinksofyouashislittlevirgin
anddoesn’tlikethethoughtthatyou’vesharedtheprettypussyheconsidershiswith
othermen.”
Morganheldinagasp.Shewasn’tusedtothosewords,notwithaborn-againmother.
She’dneverdatedamanlikeJackwhousedthemsounapologetically.Hermotherwould
havefainteddeadaway…evenmorethanshehadafterseeingthefirstinstallmentof
TurnMeOn.
“Notlikely.Whenwesplitup,heencouragedmetodatehisroommate,whowasa
majorhorndog.Trustme,hewasasovermeasIwasoverhim.”
Jackshrugged,someofthetensionleavinghisshoulders.“Numbertwo?”
“BrentPherson.”
“TheBrentPhersondraftedbytheRaidersafewyearsago?”
“Thesame.Ifyouwanthisvitalstats,lookthemuponESPN.com.”
Jawtight,heasked,“How’dyoumeet?”
“Atapressparty.Hewasdoingarealityshowaboutathletesduringtheoffseason
forthesameparentcompanythatairsTurnMeOn.Idoubthe’sstalkingme.We…It
wasjustonenight.”
Jackscowled,lookingdecidedlyunhappyaboutthat.“Whydidyoulethimfuckyou?”
“Doyouhavetoputitlikethat?”
“That’swhathappened,right?Whydidyoulethim?Didyouhavefeelingsforhim?”
Brenthadbeenbuiltlikethesideofamountainandthesupposedleaderofhis
footballteam.He’dbeenquietandseeminglyincontrol.Thatillusionhaddrawnherin,
alongwithhisgoodlooks.Anighthadbeenallsheneededtoseehowinsecureandout
ofcontrolhe’dbeen.
“That’sreallynoneofyourbusiness.”
Jackstood,approachedthebed,toweredoverher.Morganlookedup,pasttheridged
absandripplingshouldersthatscreamedpower.Havinghimthisnear…itwasn’tgood
forhermentalhealth.Hewaspartaphrodisiac,partbeast.Andsherespondedwaymore
thanshewantedto.
“Ifyouwantmyhelp,Ineedtoknowyourpast.It’snotuncommonforprevious
loverstoturnstalker,sincetheyknowwhereyoulive,whoyou’recloseto,andmayeven
knowsomeofyourfriendsandcangethisinformationthroughthem.Youbeingmodest
andtreatingmelikeanauditoryvoyeurisonlygivinghimmoretimetohuntyoudown.
Doyouhaveadeathwish?”
“IfIdid,IwouldhavejustsatthereinLafayetteandlethimusemeastarget
practice,”Morgangratedout.“Doyouthinkhefollowedushere?Didyouseeanyone
followusontheroad?”
“No,Idon’tthinkhefollowedus.We’redeadinthemiddleofaswamp,sohe’llbe
hard-pressedtofindus.Butit’snotimpossible.Youcan’taffordtounderestimate
someonelikethis.”
Jackwasright.Morgan’sstomachquiveredwiththattruth.“Iknow.”
“Good,thencooperate.Youholdingbackistemptingmetoputyouovermykneeand
spankyourass.”
Morgangaped.“You’renottouchingmyass!”
“Don’tchallengeme,cher.I’llmakethoseprettycheeksfire-hotinaboutthree
minutes.”
AflameofdesirebursttolifebetweenMorgan’slegs.Bad,bad,bad.Stopnow!She
closedhereyes,blockingoutthesensation,thelonging.Therampantcuriosityandthe
ache.
“You’reapushybastard,youknowthat?”
“I’madominantmanwho’sreachedtheendofmypatiencewithyourlittle-girl
games.Now,haveyouspokentoPhersonsincethatnight?”
Hertemperfiredupanotch.“Afewtimes.HesentmeflowerstheweekafterIspent
thenightwithhim.Hecalledeveryfewweeks,wheneverhewasbackintown.Ijust
wasn’tinterestedanymore.Hefinallygotthepictureandstoppedcalling.”
“Nothingsince?”
Sheshookherhead.HeletthesubjectofBrentdrop.
“I’mstillnotrulinghimout.Andbachelornumberthree?”
“AndrewCummings.He’saboutyourheight.Salt-andpepperhair,grayeyes.Hejust
turnedthirty-nine.HewastheproducerforTurnMeOnlastyear.Westarteddating
shortlyafterthe…incidentwithBrent.Withinamonth,heaskedmetomarryhim.”
“Yousaid…?”Jackinchedforward,crowdingherpersonalspace.
“Yes.Hewasgood-looking,cultured,connected,seemedintelligent,andfunny.Why
not?”
Hetensed—mouth,shoulders,abs.“Whendiditend?”
“Abouttenmonthsago.”
“Because…?”
BecauseAndrew’smaleegohadbeenfrustratedbyherdifficultyclimaxinginthe
bedroom.He’dseemedsoworldly,likeabeaconofinnercalminastormylife,she’d
beensurehewouldbethemantounlockthatsomethinginsideherthatwouldsether
bodyandheartfree.He’dtriedoften…succeededrarely.Finally,hecoaxedherinto
revealingherdeepestdesires,theonesthatinvolvedherbeingboundanddominated.
Thinkingitwouldhelpthem,she’dbaredhersoulandevenrevealedhermostsecret
fantasy:beingtakenbytwomenatonce.Notthatshe’dreallydoanyofthethingsthat
spuninthedeeprecessesofhermind.Theywerejustfantasies…AfactlostonAndrew.
He’dcalledherdepraved—andsomeotherlessflatteringthingsthatsearedpain
throughhergutandashamethatboiledhertempereverytimeshethoughtaboutit.
She’dthrownhisringbackathim.He’dtakenitandquittheshow.Theyhadn’t
spokensince.
AndnotforanythingwouldsheshareawhisperofthatwithJack.
“Itjustwasn’tworkingout,”shehedged.
“Why?”
“We…justdidn’tgetalongaswellaswethought.”
“You’reholdingoutonme,”hegrowled,grabbingherwrist.
Morganjerkedawayfromtheelectricheatofhistouch.“That’sallyou’regoingtoget.
Heleftme,andIwashappytohavehimgone.AsI’vesaid,Idoubtverymuchthathe
suddenlywantsmeback.”
“Untilyoutellmethetruth,Ican’tcomment.”Hecrossedhisarmsoverhischest.
“That’sallthetruthyouneed.”
Jack’sthundercloudofanexpressiontoldMorganhedisagreed.“Timewilltell.”He
tookastepback.“Whoisyour‘friend’inHouston?”
Knowingshehadn’theardthelastofJack’squestionsaboutherbrokenengagement
withAndrew,Morgantookabracingbreathandanswered,“HisnameisBrandonRoss.”
Jack’sjawtightened.“Ishemorethanafriend?”
Shehesitated.NooneknewsheandBrandonwererelated.Keepingthesecrethad
beenpartofhermother’ssettlementwithSenatorRossyearsago.Hewouldcomeafter
herwithbothbarrelsifsheletthetruthout.SosheandBrandonhadconcoctedthe
engagementhoaxwhenshestartedstayingwithhim.
Maybe…maybeifsheusedithere,itwouldeasethetemperaturedownbetweenher
andJack.
“Yes.He’smyfiancé.My—mycurrentone.”
Jack’smouthpressedintoagrimline.“Whereishenow?”
“Outofthecountryforafewweeks.”
“Whilesomeoff-kilterpsychoistakingshotsatyourhead.Soundslikeagreatguy.”
“Hedidn’twanttogo,”shedefended.“Hisjob—”
“Hasanythingelsehappenedbesidesyoureceivingthesepictures?Anyonebreak
intoyourhouse?”
“Yes,and…”Morganswallowed,thenwhispered,“Hemasturbatedonmybed.That’s
whenIgotscaredandleftL.A.”
Suddentearsscaldedhereyes,hercheeks,surprisingher.Shethoughtshewasmore
togetherthanthat.Tearsweren’tgoingtohelpthissituation.Buttherealityofitallwashittingherhard.
Jacksatbesideherinaheartbeat,allhintofangergone.Gently,heeasedherback
andleanedoverher,brushingagentlehandacrosshercheek,wipingtearsaway.
Morganstaredattheman,thecontradiction.Tendernessandcompassionfromaman
who’dforcedthetruthfromher,threwherarousalathistouchinherface?Amanwho
boundhiswomen?
“Youdidtherightthing,leavingL.A.andagreeingtostayhere.Thisguyisfixated
anddangerous,noquestion.”
EmbarrassedbyhertearsandtooconsciousofJack’scloseness,Morganlookedaway.
“Ihatebeingafraidandhavingmylifeturnedupsidedown.Thesoonerwegetthisover
with,thebetter.”
“We’llfixit,”hemurmured.“WhoknewwhereyouwentafteryouleftL.A.?”
Afurrowwrinkledherbrowasshetriedtorecall.“Reggie,myproductionassistant.
Myneighbor,who’swatchingmycat.Sabrina,whodoesmymakeupfortheshow.Ican’t
remember.Ileftinablur…”
“Havingsomesomeoneuninvitedjackoffonyourbedwouldthrowanyonefora
loop.”
Jacktookherhand,sandwicheditbetweenhisstrong,callousedpalmsashehovered
overherintheshadowedmoonlight.Holycow,hewassogood-lookinghehurthereyes.
Strongjaw,chiseledmouth,twodays’growthrougheningwhatmighthavebeenan
otherwiseprettyface.Wide,muscle-cappedshoulderstoppedoffahard,six-packedtorso
anywomanwoulddroolover.
Morganwantedtobeunmovedbyhim,hisauraofpower,histouch.Itwasn’tinthe
cards.Hisgazerovedoverher,partreassuring,parthotremembrance.God,shecouldn’t
forgeteither,hisbreathonherneck,hishandspalmingherbreasts,hisfingersburied
insideher,nearlybringinghertoorgasm.Hismouthonhers.
Survivalfirst,pleasurelater.Muchlater.AndnotwithJack.
Yes,shewantedaself-possessedman,butthisone…hewastoomuch.Ofeverything
thatcalledtoher,ofeverythingshedidn’tneedatthispointinherlife.Shehadno
businessthinkingabouthim.Jackpossessedlethalpower,barelyconcealedbycareful
restraint.Theprimalmaleanimallurkedjustunderthesurfaceofhisskin,leashedby
hiscontrolandairofauthority—andathinfa?adeofcivility.
Awomandidn’thandleamanlikeJack.Hehadallthesubtletyofasteamroller,and
ifMorgangavehimtheslightesthintthathisbrandofdominationinterestedher,she
knewhe’drolloverherfairlyinexperiencedbodyandleaveherflat.Nothanks
Nowifonlyherlust-saturatedthoughtswouldcatchon.Hewasabusinesscontact
andthemantryingtoprotecther.Herresponsetohimneededtostopthere.Shewas
focusedonexpandinghercareer,nottheneedmoisteninghervagina.
ButsheknewwhatJackwasandwhathewantedfromawoman.Curiositycouldbe
almostaspowerfulasdesire.Andnoneofheradmonishmentscoulddousethearousal
thatseepedthroughherblood.
Morgantookadeepbreath.Okay,sohecouldbringherpleasure.Surelylotsofother
guyscould,withoutallthedominationandbondage.Withoutthefrighteningsensethat
hecouldcontrolawoman’sbodywithlittlemorethanastare,asternword,anda
naughtysmile.True,Morganhadn’tfoundsuchamanyet.
Shesighedathercircularlogic.NothingmatterednowexceptthatJackcouldkeep
hersafe.Sheneededthatsobadly—assurancesthatshewasn’tgoingtowindupdeadin
aditchsomewhere,thatshecouldescapefromthenightmareherlifehadbecome
virtuallyovernight.
Jacksqueezedherhand.“Afterdawn,I’llcallabuddyofminewhohasalotof
contactsinsidetheFBIandseeifhecanstartaprofile.”
“Thankyou.”ShehopedJackandhispalwouldgettothebottomofthissoonsoshe
couldgetonwithherlifeandonwithhershow.
“Whydon’tyoutrytogobacktosleep?”
Tensionroseuplikequicksand,threateningtodrownher.“I’mdonesleeping.Too
worried.Toowired.”
Jackleanedinandfondledalockofherhairbetweenhisfingersandfrowned.He
turneddarkchocolateeyesonher.Theairbetweenthemturnedsothick,Morgan
couldn’tdragalungfulin.Heatradiatedfromhim,warmingherallthewaytoherbones.
Hisscenthitherwiththeforceofabatteringram—spice,sweat,swamp,andpure
mystery.
Damnit,shewassoawareofhimasaman…
“Try.You’vegottokeepyourstrengthup.”Hesentheraghostofasmile.“Younever
knowwhenyoumightneedit.”#
Jackescapedthecottageintotheemergingdawn,spittingacurse.
Fourlovers,twoofthemfiancés,includingBrandon.Hadthepansy-asssenator’sson
evertoldMorganabouthim?Hisguess:no.
Asfarashisrevengewent,thatwasgoodnews.Morganhadnoideawhohewas.
Andthroughherentireconfessional,herblueeyeshadeatenhimupwithhunger.
Damn,he’dnevergottensohardfromjustawoman’sglance.
Hestillwantedhispoundofflesh,butrevengewasn’tallhewantedanymore.The
shittyfactwas,Morganarousedhimunbearably.Beinginthesameroomwithherand
nottouchingthepalesilkofherskin,ortastingthecinnamonspiceofherkiss,the
muskycreamofherpussy,wasmakinghimhardenoughtodrillholesthroughsteel.He
barelyrestrainedhisimpatienceatbeingdeniedtheopportunitytocuffhertohisbed
andcoaxherintosubmission.Needgnawedathim,demandingheclampthosepretty,
palenipplesandtoywithherclituntilshebeggedforahardride.Shenearlypushedhim
pastsanity.Hewasdyingtoseejusthowsubmissiveshewas,tasteherstrengthashe
shovedhiscocksofarinsideher,she’dneverforgethim.
Damnit,hehadtogetcontrol.Feelingmorethantheneedforrevengewasstupid.
Sowhywashe?Thequestionplaguedhimlikeanannoyingsonghecouldn’tgetout
ofhishead.He’dneverbeenparticularlyhotforredheads.Orshortwomen.Orwomen
alreadyclaimedbyanotherman.Sowhyher?
Hisgrandfather’smatter-of-factvoiceechoedinhishead,Ifyou’redreamingabouta
redheadedwomanoverandover,you’reabouttomeetherandshe’syourheart’smate.
He’dalwaysthoughtthefamily“curse”utterbullshit,propagatedbythecolorfulloons
andromanticsinhisfamilywhobelieveditbecausetheywantedto.
Now,itstilldidn’tmakesense.Hestilldidn’tbelieveit.
Buthecouldn’tdenythathe’dneverrespondedtoawomanthisstrongly.
Mutteringanevenugliercursethanthelast,heheadedaroundtheleftsideofthe
cabinandbeganwalkingtheperimeter,themarshysoilsoggybeneathhisboots.
He’dseduceMorgan,noquestion.Notevenablindmancouldmissthecuriosityand
awakeningneedinhereyes.Hewasfarfromblind.Buthealsosensedsomething
holdingherback.LatentaffectionforBrandon?Orafearofbeingdominated,despiteher
curiosityandsubmissivenature?Therewasmoretoherpastrelationshipsthanshewas
admitting,particularlyherbreak-upwithherformerproducer.
Herreasonfordenyingherdesiretosubmitdidn’tmatter.He’dovercomeitandhave
Morganboundandhungrilyacceptinghiseverydemand,gaspingashesankhiscock
intohermouth,herpussy,herass.Giveherthingsstraight-lacedBrandonRosswould
neverdreamof.
WouldthatbeenoughtomakeherleaveBrandonintheend?
Jackpausedatthebedroomwindowandpeeredin.Empty.NoMorganinthebedor
anywhereintheroom.Damnit,she’ddefiedhisgoodadvicetorest.Nodoubt,she
neededastrongmantoheatupherasstokeepherinline.
Hispalmitchedatthethought,butheshovedthetemptingideaaway.Afterthelast
thirtyminutes—hell,thelastfewhoursofwatchinghersleep—hispike-hardcockwas
finallygettingthecluethathewasn’tgettinglucky.Hewelcomedarestfromhaving
mostofthebloodinhisbodynowherenearhisbrain.
Infact,heneededtogethersomeclothes.Preferablymadeofflannelandthreesizes
toobig.Ifhewatchedherparadearoundintightpurpleleatherandstilettobootsfortoo
long,he’dbetoodistractedbywantingtofuckhertoprotectherincasetheworst
happened.Thefuckingwouldhappen,heremindedhimself,butnotyet.Notuntilhe
wassureshewassafe.Notuntilhe’dearnedabitmoreofhertrustandfiguredouthow
togetunderherskin.
He’dneedallthatifhewantedhertocompletelysurrendertohim.
Hewalkedon,pullinghiscellphonefromhisbeltclipanddialedBrice.He’dgethis
grandfathertopickherupafewthings.Butafterthesixthring,hehungupwithacurse.
Theoldcodgerwasprobablyhavingcoffeewiththe“boys”atthelocaldiner,playing
Bourée,andsolvingalltheillsoftheworld.Toobadhecouldn’tconvinceBricetobuyan
answeringmachineoracellphone.He’dcallbacklater…butthatmeantwaitingtocover
Morgan’stemptingform.
Atthebackofthecabin,Jackpaused,listeningtothebayou,watchingalligatorsslosh
intothewateranddisappearbeneaththemurkysurface.Cicadassangthelastofthe
night’ssongasdawnapproached.EvenintheFebruarychill,moistairclungto
everything.
Thisplacehadalwaysrepresentedpeacetohim.Nottoday.Inthelastfewmonths
sinceBricehadgiventhecabintohim,he’dmadesomemodificationsandupgrades—
reallymadeithis.Itwastheclosestthingtoahomehehad.Herarelybroughtanyone
here.Hemeantto…butintheend,hehidthisplacefromsubmissivesandallbuthis
closestfriends.SowhyhadhebroughtMorganheresoreadily?
Notlookingtoohardfortheanswer,Jackpeeredatthevideoequipmentwellhidden
bythetreesandtheeaves.Lookedgood,functional,asitscannedtheareabehindthe
cottage.Thenhecontinuedon,trudgingaroundthecornerofthelittlehouse.
Flickeringgoldenlightemanatedfromthelittlewindowinthemiddleofthewall.
Morganwasinthebathroomandhadfoundthecandles.Whatshehadn’tdonewas
completelyclosetheshutters.She’dtried,butthebrokenonewouldn’textendoverthe
window.
Onquietfeet,Jackapproachedthesmallglasspane.Heshouldn’tlook;heknewthat.
Buthedidn’thavealotofscrupleswhereshewasconcerned.
Edgingcloser,Jackpeeredin,lookingintothenarrowbathroom.Steamrosefromthe
claw-footedtub.Besideit,Morganranahandunderthewaterstream.Apparently
satisfiedwiththetemperature,shesetthepluginthetubthenbackedaway.
HerhandssettledonthefirstbuttonofAlyssa’sleathergetup.Atapushofher
thumb,thebuttoncameloose.Asecondfollowedsuit.Thesoft,roundededgedofher
cleavageandahintoftheblackbrahehadn’tforgottenpeekedouttotormenthim.
AsweatbrokeoutacrossJack’schestandback.Hiscock,whichhe’djustmanagedto
getundercontrol,roseupswiftlytofullstaffandsalutedtheview.
Buttheviewonlyimproved.Athirdbutton,centeredaroundhernaval,cameloose
fromitsmooring.Asthefourthandfinalbuttoncameundone,sodidJack’sabilityto
breathe.
Morganpeeledthegarmentoffandlaiditonthecounter.Hegluedhisgazetoher
slendertorsoandhigh,roundbreastsasshereachedbehindhertounfastenthetight
miniskirt.
Withanalluringwriggle,asexyshimmy,shepeeledthegarmentdownthesweet
curveofherhipsandpastfirmthighs.
Whenshestoodagainandsettheskirtaside,theonlythingstoppinghimfromfully
takinginthepaletemptationofherbodywasalacybrathatdidnothingtohideherhard
nipples,andateeny-tinythong.
Damn,wasitpossibletohaveafatalheartattackatthirtyone?
Heshouldwalkawaynow.Focusonsurveillanceuntilheknewshewassafe.Stop
fixatingonawomanheplannedtofuckonce…justsoBrandoncouldappreciatethepain
andrageamanfeltwhenheknewhiswomanhadsurrenderedwillinglytoanotherhard
dick.
ButwalkingawayfromMorganwaseasiersaidthandone.Atthispoint,hecouldn’t
findthewilltotry.
Drawinginashakybreath,hewatchedasshereachedbehindhertounclaspthebra.
Themovementthrustherbreastsforward,accentuatingtheirround,firmshapeand
thoseprettynippleshethirstedtosuckintohismouth.
Amomentlater,theycameintoview.Plump,soft,blushingpink,andswollen,they
beckonedlikelittlebitsofheaventoppingthepalebeautyofherbreasts,which
shimmeredwithdancing,goldencandlelight.Hegrabbedtheledgeoutsidethewindow
andletoutaraggedbreath.
Howthehellwashegoingtokeepfromfuckingherintooblivioninthenextten
minutes?
Beforehecouldanswerthatquestion,sheslidthelittleblackthongoffandtossedit
away,revealingthelastofhersecretstohim.Andboy,wasitadoozie.
ThetinypatchofhaircoveringMorgan’spussywasfieryred.
NowJackknewhowabullfeltwhensomeonewavedsomethingredinitsface:
enflamed,readytocharge.
Toro!
HebracedhishandsagainstthesideofthecabintosteadyhimselfasMorgan
steppedintothetubandsankintothesteamingwater,eyesclosed.
Damn,hehadtostopspyingonherlikesomelosersickowhocouldn’tpersuadea
womantoundressforhim.Andhewould…assoonasshestoppedslashingwaterover
hershoulders,onherbreasts.Thewaterbeadeduponhercreamyskin,runningin
rivuletsthatdrippedfromsucculentnipples.He’dlovetolickherupwithhistongue.
ThesunedgedupoverthehorizonbehindJack,makingithardertoseeinsidethe
littlebathroom.Itwasprobablyasignthatheshouldbenobleandstopactinglikea
peepingTom.
Morgandraggedathumboveroneofherhardnipples,andherlipspartedinasilent
gasp.
Fucknobility.
Hesteppedclosertothewindowtoimprovehisview.
Hernipplesrespondedtotheirwetstateandthecoolair,beadingupeventighter,
turningashadedarker.Shelayagainstthebackofthetubandsighed.
Thensheliftedherhandsfromthewater—tocupherbreasts.Amomentlater,
Morganstunnedhimwhenshedraggedherthumbsacrosstherigidpeaksdeliberately
andmoaned.
Afreshgallonofbloodransouthtoengorgehiscockevenmore.God,hewasgoing
togoinsane.He,whohadneverhadevenahintofmentalillnessinhisfamily,wouldbe
certifiablebeforeMorganfinishedherbath.
Jackheldhisbreathasshepinchedherlushnipples,rollingthembetweenthumb
andfingers,pullingatthemharderthanhewouldhaveimagined.Firstone,thenthe
other,finallytogether,sheworkedthemwithhersmallfingers.Shethrewherheadback,
neckarched,moistlipsparted.Shelookedlikeasensualgoddess,liketheultimatefuck.
Inthatmoment,hewouldhavechargedintothehouse,pluckedherdamp,naked
bodyfromthewaterandplungedhissteel-hardcockrightintoher.Buthewantedto
knowtoodamnbadjustwhatshewoulddonext.
Ashernipplesdarkenedandswelledfromherfondling,shesankdeeperintothetub,
untilonlythetwinpeaksofherbreastsrosefromthewater,wetandtempting.Shelifted
herrightlegandrestedherheelontherimofthetub,thenbentherleftkneeandspread
herlegswide.
Jackcouldn’tseeMorgan’spussyunderthewater,butglimpsedanoccasionalflash
ofredhair.Buthisimaginationfilledinthegaps.Fierycurlsshieldingswollenpink
flesh,slickandpoutingandready.
Ifshewashis,he’dkeepherlikethat—nakedandhot.Alwayswet.He’dspend
morningslappingathernipples.Whilesheatebreakfast,he’deather.They’dshower
withhermoutharoundhiscockasshetookhimdeep,allthewaytothebackofher
throat.Andthenhe’dgetserious,pushhertothelimitsofherbody,hertrust.He’d
leavenopartofheruntouched.Therewouldbenothinghewouldn’tdowithher,toher,
tohearherscreamherthroatrawinpleasure.
Morganjoltedhimoutofhisreveriewhenshetrailedherhandfromherbreast,down
herabdomenandbetweenherlegs.
Shebegantostrokeherself.
Oh,shit…Ifhehadn’tyetlosthismind,itwasgoingtogoupinflamesnow—just
likehisbody.
Heshiftedhisachingcockinhisjeansandedgedclosertothewindowuntilhisface
wasnearlypressedagainstit.Eyesclosed,Morganmadelazycircleswiththehand
betweenherlegswhiletheothercontinuedtopluckathernipples,keepthemhardand
ready.
Soon,theslowcirclesofherfingersgainedspeed.Watersloshedinthetub,dousing
theendsofhersilkyhair,whichhungwildlyabouthershoulders.Herhipsbegantolift
tomeetherfingers.Jackcaughtelectrifyingflashesofred,alongwithslick,spreadflesh.
Lustpooledinhisbelly,demandingrelief,demandingher,asherchestroseandfellwith
quick,pantingbreaths.Morgantightenedthecircle,movingfasterthanever.Herlips,
nowadeepred,openedonasilentgasp.Shesqueezedhereyestightlyclosed.Jack
steppedcloserstilltothewindowforanevenbetterview,clutchingthewindowledge
withawhite-knuckledgrip,hisownrapidbreathingcreatingcirclesofdampheatagainst
theglass.
Thenherlegsstiffened,herbackbowed.Shebitherliptotrapinacryasorgasm
washedoverherinalongrushofshudderingsensation.Morganrubbedatherclit
furiously,extendingthepleasure,extendingJack’shell.
Shekeptpanting,teasing,buckingagainstherhand,stretchingforthenextorgasm.
Momentslateritcame,crashingdownonherlikeatidalwave.Shecriedout,nolonger
abletoholdinthesound.ButthedesperatepleasureinhervoicestabbedJackwitha
freshboltoflust.
Godhelpher.Godhelpthemboth.Therewasnopowerstrongenoughonthisearth
tokeephimoutofherbodyrightnow.Fuckhisplans.Fucktheconsequences.
Hewasgoingtofuckher.Now.
AsMorganrosetothepinnacleofherpeak,archingandflushed,hereyesflewopen.
Hergazeconnectedwithhis.
CHAPTERFIVE
OhmyGod!
Morganleaptfromthetub,grabbedatowelwithshakinghandsandwrappedit
aroundher,coveringasmuchofherselfasshecould.He’dseenher—andeverything
she’ddone!
Sheturnedbacktothewindow,eagertoassureherselfJackhadhadthedecencyto
leaveandgiveherprivacy,nowthatshe’dcaughthimbeingavoyeur.ButJackstillstood
thereunblinking,shirtless,hismassivechestrisingandfallingwithharsh,tightly
controlledbreaths.Worse,hewatchedherwithahot,predatorygaze.Completelysexual.
Totallylackinginapology.Hisgazetoldherthatshearousedhim.Hewantedher.He
meanttohaveher.Period.
Theachebetweenherthighsshe’dtriedtoquenchpulsedbacktolife.Morgan
squeezedhereyesshut,strugglingagainstthemorassoffeelingswirlinginsideher.
Desireandfurygallopedinherstomach.Theyracedneckinneck,mortificationaclose
third.
Butatthefinishline,furywon.
Damnhim!Jackmighthavesavedherlife,butthatdidn’tentitlehimtoinvadeher
privacy,towatch…whatevershedidbyherself—andarousehimselfdoingit.Arrogant.
Rude!Solikeaman.
ThefamousO’Malleytemperhermotherhadalwaystalkedaboutwasrisinghotand
fastinsideher,greedilylappingatproprietyandcalm.
Shootinghimavenomousglarethroughthewindow,Morganwhirledandleftthe
littlebathroom,thenstalkeddownthehall,intothekitchen/livingroomarea.She
barreledtowardthecabin’sfrontdoor.
Beforeshereachedit,thedooropened.Jacksteppedin,fierceandsilent.Andsotaut
shecouldprobablybounceknivesoffhim.Heclosedthedoorbehindhimwithaquiet
clickthatwasnearlylostinthehardstampsofherwetfeetacrossthegleamingwood
floor.
“Yousonofabitch!”sheyelled,chargingtowardhimuntiltheystoodamerefoot
apart.“Howdareyou?DidyouthinkIwouldn’tnoticeorcare?Ormaybeyouthought
—”
“Enough.”Hedidn’traisehisvoicebutitstilllashedlikethestingofawhip.
“Goto—”
“Morgan,”hewarned,jawclenching.
Shestarted,clutchinghertowelaroundher,herchestrisingandfallingwithanger.
Hisvoicefilledtheroom.Acommandburnedinhiseyes.Hewasangrywithher?
Unbelievable.
Beforeshecouldtellhimtopoundsand,hesaid.“Ihadnorighttowatchyou,cher.I
wentoutsidetochecktheperimetersecurity.Youleftthepartiallyshuttersopen,andI
couldn’tlookaway.I’msorry.”
Anapology?Thatwasit?Noarguing,nodefendinghimself?
Furydissipated—muchfasterthanshewanteditto.Hardtostayfrothingfuriousat
someonewho’dofferedanapology,damnit.Evenhardertostaymadatamanwho’d
beentransfixedbecausehelikedthesightofher.
ButshewasanO’Malleyandnotnearlyreadytogiveupthefight.
“Youdidn’thaveanyright!I—I’mcompletelyembarrassed.”
Heedgedcloser.“Ofyourbody?Ofbeingawomanwithneeds?”
“Ofbeingwatched!Ican’tbelieveyoujuststoodthereandlookedatmelikeIwas
thestarofsomesortoffreebiesexshow.”
“It’snotgoodbehaviorforhosts,Iagree.It’snotahabit.”Hiseyessparkedtruth—
andadesirethatwasn’tgoingaway.“Morgan,admitsomething,though:KnowingI
watchedyou,thatIcouldn’tlookaway,arousesyou.”
“No.”Sherefusedtogivehimthesatisfaction,despiteherawarenessthatmoisture
gushedbetweenherlegsathiswords.
“Thosesultryblueeyessayyes,cher.”
“Youneedglasses.DidyouthinkIwouldbeokaywithyouturningmybathintoa
peepfest?DidyouthinkI’dsay,‘Sure,Iknowwejustmetyesterday,butfeelfreetospy
onthemostintimatemomentsofmylife?’”
“Iwasonlyawareofhowofbeautifulyoulooked.”Heleanedin.“Ifyouweremine,
you’dhavenoreasontoselfpleasure,cher.”Hequirkedasmile.“Ofcourse,I’dloveto
seeyoustrokeyourselfnowandthenforthepureviewingfun.”
Riskingaglancedown,shecouldn’tmisstheoutlineofhisrigiderectionstrainingthe
frontofhisjeans.Morganfeltaflushrisetoherskinandthatachetightenbetweenher
legsagain.No!Sheneededheranger,allwhippedintoanice,frothyfury.
Instead,shebecamealltooawareofhowclosehestood.Ofthefacthewashalf
dressed,whileshewasbarelycoveredatall.Dangerousterritory,especiallywithJack
lookingatherwithadarkflameofwantblazinginhiseyes.Especiallywithherbody
warminginresponse.
Morganretreatedastep.
“Staythere.”
Hisquiettonesrangwithcommand,vibratedthroughher.Morganhesitated,mind
racing.Shedidn’thavetolisten,didn’thavetostandbeforehimnearlynakedandfollow
orders.Infact,itwasmuchbetterifshedidn’t…
“Biteme.I’mnotatwoyear-oldorarobot,”sheshotbackandsteppedawayagain.
Jackreachedforher.
Run!sheorderedherself.Instead,heencircledherwristwithagentlegrip,butshe
feltitssteelbeneath.Andhisheat.
“Staythere.”
Forsomereason,somethinginhisvoice…Shecouldn’tnotlistentohim.
Maybethat’sbecauseJackembodiedeverysinshe’deveryearnedtoexperience,ever
masturbatedtoinherdark,lonelybed,onlytohavefrustrationdousehersatisfaction
whensherealizednoneofitwasreal.
Hereleasedherslowlyandbegantopacearoundherwithunhurriedsteps,brushing
hershoulderwithgentlefingertipsashesteppedpast.Herheartbeataccelerated.Goose
bumpseruptedacrossherarms.Shedidn’tevenwanttothinkaboutwhatwas
happeningtohernipplesorhowbadtheyached.
Hestoppedbehindher.Jack’shotbreathtickledthesensitivespotbetweenherneck
andshoulders.Hisheatradiatedalongherbackandlegs.Morgansuckedinabreath.
God,hewasstandingclose.Tooclosetoignore.Tooclosetodenytheeffecthehadon
her.
Theachebetweenherthighszingedtonewheights,asifshehadn’tstrokedherway
toclimaxmereminutesago.
Shesentacautiousglanceoverhershoulder.Jackstoodrightthere,waiting,asifhe’d
knownwhatshewoulddo.Theirgazesconnected,hisfulloffireanddemand.He
hoveredamerebreathaway,tallandtowering.
Hewasgoingtotouchher.
Azipofelectricthrillracedthroughher,evenasshecalledherselftwentykindsof
stupid.Shetorehergazefromhisandstaredatthefrontdooragain,clutchingthetowel
aroundherbody.Hesaidnothing,butMorgancouldfeelhiseyesonher,takinginher
still-wetskin,herrapid,tellingbreaths.
Nowwhat?Thishadgonefromanass-chewingtoanassviewinginabouttwo
minutes.Ifshedidn’twanthimdoinganythingelsewithherass,shehadtogetaway
now.
“Tellmewhyyouneededthatorgasm,”hemurmuredintoherear.
Shecouldn’t.Itwouldonlyconfirmwhathemustknow:Thatsomedeviant,out-of-
controlpartofherwantedhim,feltmorethanjournalisticcuriosityaboutwhathecould
giveher.
“It’sreallynoneofyourbusiness,Jack…”
“Don’tcallmethat,notwhenwe’realone.”
Hewantedhertocallhimsir.Trembling,shestoodstill,thoughtsandheartracing
betweenuncertaintyandforbiddenthrill.Shefelt…claimedbyJack’swords.Hisiron
commandsreachedsomethinginsideherandcalledforthabarrageofneed.
Whatwoulditbeliketosurrender?Togiveintothatvoice?
Dangerous.Bad.GivingintoeverythingJackrepresentedandeverythingshe
shouldn’twant.Ifshedid,she’donlybeforginganewpathtohell.
“Howaboutjackass,then?That’sappropriate.”Shedugupherbravadoandturnedto
facehim.“Don’tbullyme.”
Shewaitedforhisangrycomeback,foragrowledcommandoffrustration.Itdidn’t
come.
Instead,heshuffledaheartbeatcloser,untilamerewhisperseparatedherfromthe
ragingheatofhisbody.“Thereisnoreasontobeembarrassedaboutyourdesires.”
“I’mnot.Callmerepressed,butIamembarrassedabouthavinganaudienceduring
orgasm,”shesnapped.
“That’snottrue,”hesaidsoftly.
Swallowing,Morgantriedtotearhergazefromhisknowing,sexualstare.Hisscent
assailedhernext,fullofmanandmystery,spicyasCajunfoodandashardtofathomas
theswampitself.
Sheinchedback.“Doyouthinkyouknowmenow?”
“Iknowthingsaboutyou.Iknowyou’reuneasyaboutyoursexuality.Youhave
desiresyoudon’tliketoadmitto.Iseethemallinyoureyes.Acravingtobeboundand
dominated—”
“Youdon’tseeadamnthing!I’mnotdepraved.”
“No,you’renot.Anyonewhothinksyouareisanidiot.”
Jackreachedforheragain,determinationalloverthefiercemasculineanglesofhis
strongface.Shedidn’twanttoknowexactlywhathewasdeterminedtodo.Panicflared,
andshebattedhishandawayandleaptoutofhisreach.Herbackhitthedoor.
AndJackkeptcomingforherwithsoft,slowsteps.Thepaceofahunter.Shehadto
getaway.Hadto.Now.
Morganlungedtoherlefttoevadehim.Heblockedherwaywithastrongarm,then
anchoreditonthedoor,sealingoffthatavenueofescape.Heusedthesametacticonthe
rightbeforeshecouldmakeamoveinthatdirection.
ThenJackleanedin,placingonehandonthedoor,justnexttoherhead.Shecouldn’t
lookathim,refusedto.Asiftogetherattention,hisbodybrushedhers,detonating
ruthlesssparksofdesirethatburnedthroughherbody.Still,thatbriefcontactwas
enoughtolightheruplikeafirecracker.
“Lookatme.”Heleanedbacktoputabreathofairbetweenthem.
Somethinginsideherwantedtoobey.Thatsmooth,richvoicewiththehintofFrench
liltandexplicitcommandtuggedather.Thethoughtofsurrenderingmadeherstomach
clenchwithanxiety…anddesiregnawatherclit.Themanwasagiantcontradiction.An
aggressiveprotector.Amanwhoboundwomenwasgoingoutofhiswaytokeepher
safe.
Itwasconfusingher.Hewasconfusingher.
Finally,sheraisedherstormygazetoclashwithhis.“Whatthehelldoyouwantfrom
me?”
“Honesty.”
“No,youdon’t.Youwantmetogivein,tospreadmylegslikeaspinelessairheadand
giveyou…whateveritisyouwant.”
Ahalfsmilecurledupthesideofhismouth.“You’rehalfright.Idowantyoutogive
in,cher.IwantyoutospreadyourlegswhenItellyouto.Notbecauseyou’respineless,
butbecauseyou’renot.”Hemovedincloser,brushinghisbodyagainsthersagain,all
hintofasmilegone.“Iwantyoutoburnforme.Iwantallyourfireandindependence
andsassunderneathme.Iwanttoshowyouwhatyousecretlyyearnforandtrynotto—
andhowgooditcanbe.”
Morganswallowed,thenopenedhermouthtospeak.Howwasshesupposedtoreply
tothat?Whatdidawomansaytothemantryingtospoon-feedhereverysexualfantasy
she’deverdenied?
“Idon’tthink—”
“Youthinktoomuch.Ofallthereasonsyoushouldn’t.OfallthereasonsIscareyou.
TrythinkingofthewaysIcouldpleaseyou.”
Oh,she’dthoughtofthose.
Oneofhishandseasedawayfromthedoor.Hebrushedthebackofhisfingersdown
herneck,overhercollarbones…andkeptdelvingdown.Hecaresseddowntheterrycloth-
coveredslopeofherbreast,thenbrusheddownovertheerectnipplebeggingforhis
touch.
Eventhroughthetowel,shefeltthattouchallthewaytohertoes.Ahottinglesizzled
herinsideslikebaconinhotgrease.Shegasped,felthergazelockedinplacebyhisdark
stare.
Herepeatedtheprocessagain,thenoncemore.PleasureassailedMorganfromthe
achingpointsofhertightnipples,streakingthroughhertightlycoiledbody,straightto
hervagina.Shedroppedherheadbackagainstthedoor,unabletoholdinhermoan.
“That’sit.”Jackfeatheredhislipsdownherthroatashemovedincloser.Hisother
handjoinedthefirstinthesofttormentofhernippleswithonlythethintowelin
between.
“Iwanttoseethoseprettynipples.Ineedtohavetheminmymouth,cher.Dropthe
towel.”
Desirebubbledwithinher,atfullboil,evenasalastbitofsanityscreamed
somewhereinherhead.Thememoryofhistouchatthestripclubandthejolting
pleasureitsuffusedherwithstillhauntedher.Thelingeringremembrances,coupled
withhispotentcommand,sentherself-controlreeling.
Ofallthemenshecoulddesire,whyhim?Ofalltimes,whilebeingchasedbysome
whacked-outstalker,whydidshehavetowanthimnow?
Gee,maybeitwasbecauseJackwastheembodimentofeverymidnightfantasythat
hadeverkeptherawake.Maybeitwasbecauseheloweredhishandtothepartinher
towelandswirledhispalmacrossherstomach,overthecurveofherhip,thenmovedin
topressanimpressiveerectionagainsther.Certainly,heandallthattestosterone…
divertedhermindfromthewhacked-outstalkerissues.
Hermotherhadalwayssaid,Youmakeyourchoicesinlifeandlivewiththem.Could
shelivewithherselfifshewalkedawayfromtheforbiddenallureofJackColewithout
onetaste?
Hecurvedhishandovertheriseofherassandbegantostrokehiswaydown—
fingertipslightlytoyingwiththecreasebetweenhercheeks.Anewrushoftinglesfilled
her.Clevermove,sheacknowledged.Ifshearchedintohistouch,hehadahandfulof
ass.Ifshearchedawayfromit,shepushedherselfrightagainsthiserection.Howcould
helose?
Howcouldyou?alittlevoiceinsideherheaddaredher.
Inthenextmoment,hisfingersstrokedthecleftbetweenhercheeksagain,thistime
alittleharder,deeper.Adarkthrillzoomedupherspine.Withoutthought,shegasped
andarchedrightintohishand.
“Goodgirl,”hemurmuredintoherear,sendingtheshiversbackdownherspine
Histhumbtoyedwithhernipple,nowsohardshecouldfeeleverybrushofskin,
everycallous.Shemoanedagain.
“Cher,dropthetowel.Montre-moitonjolicorps.”Hisbreathcamehardandfast,his
voicestrainedbutstillincontrol.“Showmeyourprettybody.”
“You’vealreadyseenit,youpeepingTom.”
“Showme,”hegrowled.
Oh,God.Thecommandinhisvoiceturnedtheachebetweenherlegsintoathrob.
Shewantedtoobey…sobad.Sizzlecoursedthroughher.Bloodrushedeverywhere,
swellingherclit.Alreadywetfromorgasm,shefeltmoisturepoolinginhermost
intimaterecesses,threateningtooverflow.Jack’sspicy,earthyscentwasscattering
rationalthought.Thepartsofherbodyachingforhistouchwereincontrol.
What’stheworstthatcouldhappenifyougavein?avoiceinsideherasked.
Moredisappointmentandfrustration.Morerejectionandridicule.
Thenagain,ittookheratleastadozenpairsofshoestofindtherightfit.Werelovers
thesameway?Maybethreehadn’tbeenenough.
Confusionspuninherhead.
“Jack,”shemanagedtomurmurinbetweenhiswickedtouches.“Italktopeople
aboutsexforaliving.Idon’tneedtohaveittodotheshow.”
“Forgettheshow.YouneedwhatIcangiveyou.Stopdenyingyourself.”
“I’mnotdenyingmyselfanything.”Stupid!Morganbitherlip,surethatherflushed
cheeksandhardnipplesmadeherwordsanobviouslie.
Hegrabbedherjawinonehand.“Youlietomeagain,andI’mgoingtospankyouso
hardyouwon’tsitforaweek.Tellmewhyyou’reresistingwhatyouwant.”
“Don’ttouchme.”Shetriedtojerkfromhisgrasp.
Jackheldfirm.“Cher,I’mgoingtodomorethantouchyou.Waymore.Andthe
longeryouholdoutonansweringme,themoreI’mgoingtomakeyoubeg.”
Oh,God.HiswordsalonemadeMorganhotassheweighedthemandtherelentless
demandinhiseyesagainstherfears.Hecoulddoit;hecouldmakeherbeg.Andthe
thoughtracedashiverdownherspine.“Fine.Ifyouhavetoknow,I’mnotsomefemme
fatale.Idon’trespondmuchtosex.”
Cajuncharmsoftenedpushyarrogancewithamerecurlofhissin-inspiringlips.He
placedhotkissesonherneck,nibbledatthecurvetohershoulder.“Yourespondedjust
finetoeverythingIthrewyourwayinLafayette.”
Surprise.That’sallithadbeen.She’dbeentooshockedtoreallyreact.Towant,then
bowtothepressureofself-doubt.Thenclamupuntil,tenseandfrustrated,herbody
gaveup.Besides,shemightbecuriousabouthis…lifestyle,butparticipatingcommitted
herfarmorethansimplywondering.AndshehadabadfeelingthatonetasteofJack
Colewouldbeasaddictingasherointoajunkie.
“Wedon’treallyknoweachother.”
Jack’sfingertipscascadedoverhershoulder,leavingnothingbutanticipationanda
freshcropofgoosebumpsintheirwake.“Iknowenoughtoknowhowtomakeyou
scream.Butthatisn’twhat’sstoppingyou.”
Hekissedherneck,herjawline,incheduptowardhermouth.Shemeltedunderhis
mouth.God,thatfeltgood.Andhissmell…Diditcontainsomeingredientthatwaslike
Kryptoniteforherrestraint?
“Wedon’tlikeeachothermuch,”shepointedoutinadesperategasp,evadinghis
kiss—akissshewantedsobad,hergutclenchedwithdesire.
Again,hesmiled,aflashofwhiteteethvisibleintheroombathedwithpredawn
light.“I’mlikingyoujustfinerightnow,cher.Ilikedyouthefirsttimewetalkedonline.
Ilikethatyou’resmartandgutsyandsexyashell.”
Hewhisperedthewordsagainsthermouth,andMorganfeltherresolvefraying
aroundtheedges.BackinLafayette,Jackhadtouchedherbreasts,strokedherclit,
fondleddeepinsideher,yes.Buthiskisslingered,hauntedher.Likethesmoothestwine,
allwrappedinsinandvelvet,withakickoflustthatpromisedpleasure.Hiskissgaveher
apreviewofhisstrengthandselfcontrol.Almostagainstherwill,sheleanedtowardhim.
Forawildmoment,Morganthoughthewouldpullaway.Teaseher,enflameherwith
whatmightbe.Instead,hegraspedthesidesofherfaceandkepthergazelockedtohis
darkone.
“Thememoryofyouinmyarms…it’sbeenkeepingmehardallnight.Watchingyou
sleepwastorture.Ikeptthinkingaboutlyingnexttoyouonthebed,peelingyourclothes
awayanddevouringeverythingunderneath.Iwanttogetmyhandsonyou,cher.My
mouthonyou.Getinsideyou,drivedeepandsure.Iwantyoutoscreammynamewhen
youcome.”
Morgancouldn’tbreathe.Theimpactofeveryworddidmorethanrevupherlibido;
theystruckherlikebodyblows,everysyllablebatteringherresolvewithhotintent.He
robbedherofair,ofthewilltoresist.Howwouldhefeel?Taste?Thatterribleviseof
desireclampedherclitwithneed.Shehardlycontainedherwhimperwiththeneedto
comeagain.Andhe’dbarelytouchedher.
Whatifshegavehimfreerein?Whatwoulditbeliketoletgoandgiveherselfto
someonewithhismastery,justthisonce?
Sheexhaledonaraggedsigh.Arousalflaredlikeaforestfireunderaharshwind,
burningherfromtheinsideout.Abouttorageoutofcontrol.
Moisturethreatenedtotrickledownherlegs.Shelickedherdrylips,butwhenhis
gazefollowedthemotion,itonlymadehertemperaturespikehotter.
“Yougoingtoputthatprettypinktongueonme,cher?WhileIwatchedyousleep,I
picturedyouonyourknees,mycockinyourlusciouslittlemouth.”
Morganknewnexttonothingaboutoralsexfrompersonalexperience.Readingand
talkingaboutittoprepareforhershowdidn’tmakeupforthatfact.Atthismoment,
withamountainofmanlikeJackinfrontofher,pressedagainsther,thatseemed
irrelevant.Jackinspiredanurgetosampleeverythingwicked,includinghiscock.
“Ah,Ithinkyouliketheidea,”hemurmured,breathcaressinghertinglinglips.
“Thoseblueeyesareturningdarker.Iwonderwhatelseyoulike?Iknowyouenjoy
this…”
Ashe’ddonebefore,Jackstrokedhernipplesthroughhertowel,nowpainfullyhard,
withbrushesofknucklesandfingertips.Shegaspedandcouldn’tstopherselffrom
archingtowardhimandseekinganendtotheerotictormentofhistouch.
“Sensitivenipples.I’llenjoysuckingthemuntilIcanfeelthemswellonmytongue.”
Wouldhe?Thesuggestionmadeherfaintwithpleasure.
“Don’tpresume.Ididn’tsayyes,”shepointedout,tryingtohangontosanity.Butthe
croakinhervoicemadeherprotestajoke.
No,no,no!Jackmightbethrillingherbeyondbelief—beyondbearing—but
tomorrow…howmessedupwouldherheadandherlifebetomorrowifshegaveinnow?
Wasn’thavingastalkerenough?She’dagreedtomeethimtofacilitateaninterviewfor
TurnMeOn,nottofindadominantlookingforaplaything.
“Yourbodyissayingitforyou,cher.Breathchugging.Jackhammerpulsejumping.
Yournipplesareashardasdiamonds.”Suddenly,hefoundthefoldinhertoweldown
herabdomenagain,partedthehalvesofterryclothandplantedhishotpalmonherskin.
Hewassowarm,itstartledher.Stung.Shejumped…closertohim.Nowtheirchests
brushed.Hismouthwasonlyawhisperawayfromhersashedraggedthathandoverher
hip,acrossherbelly—thenstartedheadingdown.
“Yougoingtosayno,cher?”
Morganhesitated.Ifshewassmart,she’dscream“no”now.She’djerkawayfrom
him,marchbacktothatclaw-footedtubofhis,fillitupwithcoldwateranddivein.But
hisfingertipswhisperedswirlsandcirclesacrossherbelly,overherthighs,brushing
overhermoundjustenoughtoentice.
Sheclenchedherthighstogetherbutitonlymagnifiedtheache.Itclimbedupinto
herbelly,spreaddownherthighs.Thefactthatsheworenothingbutatinygreenbath
toweldidnotcomforther.
“Orareyougoingtosayyes?”hewhispered.“Areyougoingtoletmefillyouwith
myfingersandtongue?Areyougoingtoletmycockrideyouhardanddeep?”
God,moreofhiswickedwordsthatgaveherlasciviousideas—andirresistible
picturestogoalongwiththem.
Morganthrewherheadbackagainstthedoorandclosedhereyes.Shewantedtosay
yes,yearnedassheneverhadfortheforbiddenpleasuresheknewJackcouldgiveher.
Once.Justonce,whisperedavoiceinherhead.Whatcouldithurt?
Soon,withanyluck,thisbusinesswithherstalkerwouldbebehindher,she’dbe
backinL.A.tapingthenextseasonofTurnMeOn.JackColewouldbeahotmemoryshe
coulddragoutonacoldnightandrememberwhensheneededtowarmherself.That
simple.
“Jack…”
“Youwantsomething?”Hisvoicetauntedherashisfingersglidedlikeaghostover
herabdomen,herhip.Thosedancingdarkeyes,thatplayfulmouthteasedherwithout
mercy.
Sheandherresistanceweretoast.
Inanswertohisquestion,shegrabbedhishandandplaceditrightoverhermound.
Heswipedahotfingerthroughtheswollenfoldsandswirledaroundherclitonce,twice.
Shegasped,assailedbyanurgetospreadherlegswiderforhim.
“Ifyouwantsomething,cher,dropthetowel.IwantallofyouandIwantyoubare.”
Morganrefusedtostopandthink,toreconsideragain.Plentyoftimeforthatlater.
Instead,shetuggedatthetowel.Itfelltothefloorinaquietrush,leavinghercoveredingoosebumps—andnothingelse.Sheshivered—butnotfromthecold.
Jacklookedhisfillwithhoteyesthatpromisedmindshatteringpleasure.“Ican’twait
togetinsideyou,sodeepyou’llneverforgetit.”
Hismouthcoveredhersinasearingkiss.No,hedidmorethancoverhermouth.He
devoured,consumed,possessed.Morganopenedtohim,acceptingthehungrythrustof
histongue,whichdeliveredthespiceofhistasteandtheheatofhisneedina
devastatingdanceofseduction.Herkneesweakenedinseconds.Hispassionhadthe
kickofcayennepepper,balancedwiththesweetnessofhoney,cagedincontrolofsteel.
Unique.Intoxicating.Shemoanedintohismouth,andheswallowedthehungrysound.
Jack’shandsfelltoherhipsandgraspedher,fittingherrightagainsthisjeans-clad
erection.Hegaveheranudgeintherightspot,andherneedspiked.Theacheinhersex
built.Hepressedagainstheragain,compellingMorgantoliftherlegtowrapitaround
hiswaist,openingherbodytohiminasilentplea.
Heacceptedimmediately,takingherthighandanchoringitoverhiship,bringing
himinperfectcontactwithherclit.Morgangraspedhisbare,steelyshoulders,hanging
onwhileshefeltdizzywithneed.
Hadsheeverbeenthisaroused?No.Everwantedsobadshethoughtherblood
wouldboilifheturnedandwalkedaway?No.
Itwastorture.Itwasbliss.
Hecontinuedtoeatathermouth,smallnibblesofherlips,longswirlsofhistongue
againsthers.Jackleftnopartofhermouthwithouthisattention,hisflavor.In
desperation,sherubbedherbreastsagainstthehot,hardwallofhischest,threwher
armsaroundhisneck,andpresseddeeperintothekiss.
Whenheeasedhislipsawayfromhers,sheclungtohiminprotest.Heliftedher
armsawayfromhimandanchoredthemtothedoorwithawarningstare.
Theirgazesconnected,hisdarkwithbroilingneed,compellinghertoacceptwhatever
camenext.Herbodytooravenous,hermindtooentangledinhisspell,torefuse.The
breathseesawinginandoutofhischestwasheronlyindicationthathewasn’tperfectly
incontrol.
Pushingherflatagainstthedoor,Jackleanedin,hiscockgrindingagainstherclit
again.Butnowhebenttoaddatotallynewsensationtothemix:hismoutharoundher
nipples.
MorganarcheduptoJack,notjusteagertogivehimmore,butachingto.Hestarted
withskillfulsuction,ateasinglick.
“Jack,”sheprotestedsoftly.“Jack.”
“Youknowwhattocallme,”hewarned,thumbsandfingerspinchinghersensitive
nipples.“Untilyoucome,Idon’twanttohearmynamefallfromyourlipsagain,cher.”
“Yes,sir,”shechanted.Anythingtogethernipplesbackinhismouth.
Herewardedherwithhotsuctionoverthepeaksofherbreasts,firstone,thenthe
other.Backandforth.Overandover.Hot,swirlingtongue,thentenderbitesthathadher
gaspingandclawing.
Forthefirsttimeever,shecouldactuallyfeelthebloodfillinghernipples,swelling
them.
Withalastlick,hepulledbacktolookathishandiwork.“Verypretty.Ishouldkeep
themlikethisalways,slightlytender,arosypink,standingupandwaitingforjustone
moretouch.”
Heclosedthumbsandfingersaroundthemagaininapinchthatmadehercatchher
breath.Thenhetwisted,justenoughtomakeMorgancryout—asthemoisturegushed
betweenherthighsinafreshrush.Lord,she’dneverbeensosensitive,feltasifshe
mightactuallyorgasmjustfromhavinghernipplestoyedwith.She’dreaditwas
possiblebutneverbelievedit.Untilnow.
“Areyouslickandhotforme?”heasked,hishotbreathteasingherneck.
“Yes,”shegasped.
“Yes,what?”
“Yes,sir.”
Jackswipedapairoffingersdownthevalleybetweenherbreasts,draggedthem
downherabdomen,hermound,thendoverightintoherwetheat.Hegrazedherclit,
andshemoanedagainsthismouth.
“Touchme,”shemoaned.
“Youdon’tgivetheorders,cher.YoutakewhatIgiveyou.NomatterhowIgiveitto
you.”
“But—”
Jacktookastepback,endingallcontact.Morganstared,wide-eyed.Bastard.
“Weeitherdothismyway,orwedon’tdoitatall.Howisitgoingtobe?”
“Damnit,you’rearrogant,”shesaidbetweengrittedteethastheacheandsizzle
smolderedinsideher.
“We’vealreadyestablishedthat.Howisthisgoingtogodown,cher?Yourchoice.”
Intheend,Morganwastoofargone,toocuriousabouttheheightshecouldtakeher
to,toconsidersayinganythingexcept,“Yourway…sir.”
“Goodgirl.Spreadthoseprettythighs.”
Leaningagainstthedoor,Morgansteppedwide.Jacktrailedhisfingersoverher
puffed,wetfolds,toyedwiththetipofherclit,trailedmoisturedownherthighs.Her
breathingclimbedhigher,alongwithherheartbeat.Amazing.Jackknewjustwhereto
touch,when,forhowlong,tokeepheronedge,togrowherwantbutneverfulfillit.
Soon,shefeltaflushsuffuseherskinallover.Shewasonegiantache,whimpering,
dyingforhimtofillher,conquerthismonstrousneedhe’dcreatedinher.Morganran
greedyhandsoverhishardshoulders,theincrediblelinesofhispectorals,hisridged
abdomen.Heamazedher.Fleshsohardeverywhere,butskinsosilkysoft.
Heluredherclosetotheedgeofrestraintwithtalentedfingers,anoccasionalnipat
herbreasts.Hislong,feveredkissesmadehermoan,arch,silentlyplead.Hetoyedwith
her,incitingherhigherandhigheruntilshebecamedizzy,delirious,willingtodomost
anythingforhimtoendhertorment.
Indesperation,shetrailedherhandsdownhisstomachandgrabbedtheridgeofhis
cockthroughhisjeans.Huge.Thickandlikeiron,hecouldgiveherwhatherbody
needed.Sowhywasn’the?
Withahiss,Jackgrabbedherwristandanchoreditagainstthedoor,nearherhead.
“Youdidn’tasktotouchme.”
“Ithoughtyou’dlikeit,”shepanted.
“Youthoughtyou’dstripmyself-control,Morgan,soyoucangetwhatyouwant
Non.Youtouchmewhenyou’retold,notbefore.”
Restless,beyondneedy,sheshiftedfromonefoottotheother.Hekeptherthighs
spreadwithhisfeetbetweenhers,soshecouldn’tclenchthemtogether.Hisfingers
toyedagainwithhernipples,nowslightlysore.Andsomehowthattinyhintofpainonly
madehiseverytouchmorevivid,shoteverycaressstraightdowntoherclit.
“Please,sir…”
“Pleasewhat,cher?”Hepinchedhernipplesandmurmuredthequestionagainsther
lips.“Youwantmetofuckyou?”
She’dneversaidthosewordstoamaninherlife.Neverimaginedsayingthem.But
now,shecouldn’timaginesayinganythingelse.SheneededJacknow—hard,fast,
pounding.
“Yes,”shewhispered.“Fuckme.”
Hehesitated,darkbrowraisedexpectantly.
“Sir,”sheaddedhastily,panting.“Fuckme,sir.”
Inreward,heslidapairoffingersoverherclitandrubbedtiny,torturouscircles
aroundthehardnubbin.Morganhadthoughtthat,surely,herarousalcouldnotclimb
anyhigher.She’dbeendeadwrong,shethoughtwithamoan.
Soclosenow,Morgan’severybreathwasaudible.Adragin,arushout,airfilledher
lungs,butnevermadeittoherhead.Therewasonlyherheartbeat,drowningout
everythingexcepttheneedtofeelhimdeepinsideher.
“Unzipmypants.”
Morgandidn’thesitate,didn’ttease.Sherushedtopullthezipperdownandshove
thehatedjeansdownhiships.Heworenounderwear,sohiscocksprangfreeintoher
waitinghands.
Sherubbedhim.Hertechniquewasfastandinexpert,shewassure,driventotallyby
aneedtotouchhim,feelthemanwhowouldsoonbeinsideher.Fistswrappedaround
him,oneontopoftheother,shestrokedhisthicklengthandgloried.
Untilhegrabbedherwristsandtookherhandsaway,shovingthemagainstthedoor
again.
“You’renotfollowingdirections,cher.Isaidtounzipmypants,nottotakethem
down,nottostrokemycock.Failagain,andyouwon’tgetthisfucking.”
Shebitherlip,tryingtofindpatience,andnodded.“Iunderstand…sir.”
Herclitpulsedjustfromsayingthosewords.God,whatwaswrongwithher?Shewas
toofargonetocare.Later…
Insilence,heextractedapacketfromhispocketandshovedhisjeansdowntohis
knees.Secondslater,herippedopenthefoilsquareandsheathedthepurpleheadofhis
cock,thenrolleditdownhislonglength.Slowly.Toodamnslowly.Morganresistedthe
urgetohelphim,orhurryhimuportapherfeetinimpatience.
Suddenly,hebent,liftedherbyherhipsandwedgedherbodybetweenhisandthe
door.“Putyourlegsaroundmywaist.”
Shehesitated.Couldpeoplereallyhavesexstandingup?She’dnevertriedanything
moreexoticthanwomanontop.
“Doit.”Hisvoicewasedgedwithsteel.
Withoutanotherpause,Morganliftedbothofherlegsandfoldedthemaroundhis
hips.Momentslater,herewardedherwiththefeelofhiscockprobingatherentrance,all
thickandready.Breathheld,sheclungtohisshoulders,ontherazor’sedge,waiting.
Heeasedhistipinside,andeventhathardbitofhimfeltlikeheaven,likethemagic
elixirtocuretheachecurrentlyroastingheralive.
“Sayitagain,”hedemanded,voicestrained.“Tellmewhatyouwant.”
Morganneverconsideredholdingback.“Fuckme.Now!”
Withthat,hepushedherhipsdownashethrustup.Tissuesunusedtosuchinvasion
protestedatfirst,unabletoaccommodatehisgirth.Shecriedout.
“Relax,”hegroundout.“Opentome,cher.”
Morgandidherbesttoloosenhermuscles—hardwhenshewasdyingaslowdeath
bydesire.Jackkeptpushinghiswayinside,thebladeofhisfleshcuttingthroughher
likesoftbutter,probingpastnerveendingswiththewideheadofhiscock,awakening
them,leavingtinglesscreaminginhiswake.Hemadeherneedsoar,anditseemedlike
foreveruntilhewasburiedtothehilt.Oh,God,sheneededtocome.
She’dnevertakenamanthisbig,thisdeep.Shecouldfeelhiminthebackofher
tonsils.Thewidthofhimstretchedheruntilherfleshburned.Butitwasn’tenough.
Thathintofpainfueledsomethinginsideher.Herbloodraced,perspirationburst
acrossherskin.Theachemadeherhyperawareofbeingalive,ofthepleasureroiling
besidethesting.
“More!”shedemanded.“Please…”
Withoutwarning,hewithdrewnearlyalltheway,theneasedbackin,muchgentler
thanbefore.Thepainfaded,butithadchargedupthetissuesinhersexasneverbefore.
Shesworeshecouldfeeleverinch,everyvein,ofhiscockraspingacrosssuddenly
sensitivefleshinsideher.
Jackbroughtagonizingpleasurewitheveryslowstroke,everyruboftheswollenhead
ofhiscockrightoverthefleshinsidethathadhergasping.Gasping,burningneedtook
over,recedingeverythingbutthefeelofhim,herneedforhim.
“Cher,tusenssidouce,”hemurmuredinherearashethrustinsiderheragain.“You
feelsosweet.”
Shetriedtoholdon,holdoutagainstthepleasurethreateningtosweepawayher
sanity.Butwiththosewordsandthenexthardstrokeofhiscock,orgasmengulfedher
likearaginghurricane—swift,strong,unlikeanythingshe’deverexperienced.
“Jack!”shescreamed,nailsbitingintohisshoulders.
Morganknewthenherfirstinstinctwasright;shewasnevergoingtobethesame
again.
#
WithMorgan’sscreamringinginhisears,Jacksurgedintothesilkenheavenofher
pussyonemoretimeandlostcontroloftheorgasmheheldontobyabarethread
Theexplosionoriginatedlowinhisbelly,drivingpleasureoutthroughhiscock.It
burstoutacrosshisbody,suffusingblisseverywhere.Awaveofdizzinesscrashedover
him.Histoestingled.ThepulsesofMorgan’ssecondclimaxflutteredaroundhim,
milkinghimofeverylastdropofsemen,leavingheavysatisfactioninherwake.
Whenhadanythingeverfeltsogood?
Strugglingtocatchhisbreath,heopenedhiseyestoherflushedface,herswollen
mouth,therelaxedsetofhershoulders.
DidshelooklikethisafteranightinBrandon’sbed?
ThethoughtslammedJackoutofnowhere.Angeranddenialsluicedthroughhimin
ashock,asifhe’djumpedintoanicystream.Hestilled.
Anger?Yes,thatBrandonhadtouchedher.Thatshebelongedtothebastard.
Ah,butyoufuckedher,heremindedhimself.Revengeissweet.
True,buthisgut,thatgnawingspotthathadfesteredlikeawoundinacidforthree
yearsbecauseofBrandon’sbetrayal,wasn’twhoopingwithelation.Instead,hefixatedon
thefeelofMorganaroundhim,ofherraspberryscent.He’djustcomeinsideherand
alreadyhewantedtodoitagain.
Notsmart,Jack.
He’dluredherintofuckheraspayback.Firstmissionobjectiveaccomplished.Endof
story.
JackforcedhimselftowithdrawandsetMorganonherfeet.Shelookedathimwith
wideeyesthatbothaskedforreassuranceandwonderedwhatwasnextbetweenthem.
Hecouldn’tanswereither.
Stiflingacurse,heturnedaway,toreoffthecondomandtosseditinanearby
trashcan.Whyheshouldbepissedoffalloveragain,hedidn’tknow.Becausehe’dliked
Morganandshedidn’tdeservetobeused?Maybebecausehe’dwantedtobelievethat
shewouldn’tbetraythemanshe’dagreedtomarrybyspreadingherlegsforanother.
Stupidhim.
HezippeduphisjeansandturnedtoMorganagain.Herlowerlipquivered.Her
posturehadgonefromsatiatedtoguardedinseconds.Somethingdeepinhisgutwanted
toreachouttoher,reassureher.Theotherpartwasscaredshitlessatthemagnitudeof
hisreactiontoher.
“Helpyourselftoanythinginthekitchen,”hetossedout,thenturnedaway.
Jackstrodetothebackofthehouse,tohisprivatedomain.Fishingthekeysfromhis
pocket,heunlockedthedoor.
Goin.Shutit.Don’tlookather.
Impossible.
Jackturnedtofaceher.Acrossthelengthofhiscottage,hecouldstillseetheshock
onherface,alongwiththerosymarksofhiswhiskersonherbareskin,theswollen
nipplessosweetandsucculenttheymadehismouthwater,andthefieryhaircovering
theslickutopiaofherpussy.
Hisgutclenched.Again.Crosstheroom,layherout,fuckheragain.
Ignoringthevoice,heslammedandlockedthedoor,thenstalkedtowardthe
computerdeskinthecorner.Heploppeddowninhischairandbooteduphismachine.
Butthethoughtsandimpulsespoundingathimwereunlikehismundaneactions.His
instincttoldhimhe’djustmadeabigmistakebyturninghisbackonher.Ifhe’dbeen
thinkingbeyondhisdesiretofuckherandtheshockofhisfrenziedreactiontoher,he’d
haverealizedthatifhewantedMorgantoleaveBrandon,hehadtokeephersatedand
enthralled.Constantly.Nothingelsewouldensurethatshewillinglywalkedawayfrom
hisformerpal.Andifhehadanysense,he’dgetonhisfeet,marchbackinthere,carryhertohisbedandtiehertoit.
ButJackhesitated.Morganhadbeenlikeamatchonthetinderofhiscontrol.He
neededabreathtorecover,tothink.Sheandherfeelingsweren’timportant;onlythefact
thathe’dachievedthefirstpartofhisrevengewas.Decidinghowtoachievetheother
half,thepartwheresheleftBrandon…thatrankedupthere.
Instead,dangerousfantasiesofhimlayingheroutonhisbedandhavingaleisurely
feastassailedhim.He’dkilltoworkhismouthfromthelushheatofherlips,downthat
silkenthroat,tothesweettreatsofherberrynipples,overthesleekplainofher
abdomen…allthewaydowntoherwet,clenchinglittlepussyheknewwouldbelike
ambrosia.
Damnit,hehadtogethismindoffhisdickandrememberthatMorganwasthe
meanstoanend.She’dcheatedonherfiancé—notthekindofwomantogettangledup
with.Beenthere,donethat.Hehadthescarstoproveit.
Totopitalloff,shestillhadastalkerwhowantedherdead.Shewasscaredoutofher
mind,andhe’dpromisedtoprotectherandgethersomeanswers.Itwastheleasthe
coulddo.Repaymentforusingher.Heneededtofocusonkeepinghersafe,notdwellon
thefeelofheraroundhim.Notonhowchallengingshewouldbetotrulytame.
He’dfindsomewaytoconvincehertoleaveBrandonthatdidn’tinvolvesinkinghis
cockintoherbodyoverandoveruntiltheywerebothtoosatedtomove.
AquickglanceathiswatchtoldJackitwasn’tquiteseveninthemorning,tooearlyto
callDeke,hisbusinesspartner,oranyoneelse.Dekehadamillionconnections,from
senatorstojanitors.He’dknowsomeonewhoknewsomethingaboutherstalker.But
untilthen,allJackhadtofocusonwasMorganorrevenge.
Okay,revenge.He’dthinkaboutthat,focusonhowsweetitwasgoingtobetopay
Brandonbackforhisperfidy.Hedidn’tfeelelation,atleastnotyet.Likelyhewouldn’t
untilMorganleftthebastard.Buthe’dknownatthestarttherewasapotentialflawin
hisplan:IfMorgandidn’ttellBrandonaboutherindiscretion,Jackhadnowayof
ensuringBrandonfoundout.Nowayofprovingit.Andprovingit—thatwasimportant.
Everything,infact.
Risingfromhischair,Jackpaced.HowcouldheprovetoBrandonthathe’dgotten
deepinsidehiswomanandmadeherscreamhisname?He’dgottenirrevocableproofof
Brandon’sbackstabbingviavideobut—
But…hemightbeabletoprovideBrandonthesame.
Jacksmiled.Paybackswereabitch…
Ignoringthestingofhisconscience,heracedbacktohischairandfellintohisseat,
fingersonthekeyboard.Afewcommandslater,hefoundwhathe’dbeenlookingfor:
thesecurityfootageinsidethecabinfromjustafewminutesago.Clickingintothefile
thatstartedat6A.M.,hewatcheditindoubletimeuntilMorgancameoutstompingand
screaminginthatlittlegreentowel.
Thenhesatbacktowatchatnormalspeedandfullsound.Hedidn’twanttomissa
secondofthis.
Hell,shewasgorgeous,allthatredhairhangingoverhershoulderslikeafieryflagof
temptation.Thatcreamyskin,lightlyfreckledandteasinghistongue.Hegothardagain
justrememberingthewayshesmelled,likefreshraspberrieswithahintofcinnamon.
Morganwasthekindofwoman—strong,onlybendablewitheffort—thathelovedtodive
intoandeat.Hehadn’tfoundawomanlikeherinalongtime.Shewaswastedon
Brandon.
Onhisblack-and-whitevideo,hekissedher,touchedhernipples.Watchinghereyes
slideshut,herskinflush,herbackarchtohiminofferingarousedhimalloveragain.
Beingtheretoexperienceherhadbeen…beyondmind-blowing,butwatchingherthis
waywaslikehavingheragainandsavoringhereveryreaction.
Shewhisperedsomething.Hesaidsomethingback,buttheaudioonthetapedidn’t
pickitup.Ithardlymatteredwhenshedroppedthetowel.Thoughhisbodyblocked
mostoftheviewofherbody,hesawtheplumpcurveofabreast,aflashofsoft,pink
foldsguardedbyfire-redhair.Buthesawmore.Thelushlineofherhip,thefluidshape
ofherthighs.Thevulnerabilityonherface.Shewastakingariskwithhim,andsheknew
it.Andthereservation.Shewasn’t100hundredpercentcommittedtothis.Butthe
achingcuriosityhadfinallyoverwhelmedherconcern.Shewasdyingforadominant…
anddidn’twanttoacceptit.
Therehadtobeareasonwhy.Hewaswaymoreinterestedinsolvingthatmystery
thanheoughttobe.
Jacksworeagain,tornbetweenguilt,curiosity,andthehotflashofdesire,ashe
watchedhimselfliftherup,braceheragainstthedoor,andfillherwithaseriesof
rammingthrusts.Heremembered—sowellithadhimsweating—howtightshe’dbeen,
howshe’dstruggledtotakehim.Butsheneverutteredaword,nevercomplained.A
winceofpaincrossedherface,andJackbunchedhishandsintofists.Damnit,why
hadn’tshesaidsomething?Hurtingherhadbeenthelastthingonhismind.Nexttime—
Theremaynotbeanexttime,heremindedhimself.Hehadwhatheneedednowthat
he’dfoundthisvideo.Wouldtheknowledgethatshe’dfeltuttersensualdevastationat
thehandsofavirtualstrangerbeenoughtomakeherleaveBrandon?Tooearlytotell,
buthefearedgettinghertoleavethesenator’ssonwouldn’tbethatsimple.He’dhaveto
devisesomething…
Ashewatchedheraccepttheentirelengthofhiscockandherfacesuffusewith
pleasure,hehopedlikehellthatoneencounterwasn’tenough,thatsheachedtosubmit
tohimagain.Andagain.Whyfightthetruth?Shecalledtohim.Everythingabouther,
herskin,hersmell,hergrit.Shewasaninterestingmixtureofnaivetéandtemptation.
Shyandholdingbackoneminute,openingwideandbegginghimtofuckherthenext.
Helikedbeingalittleoffbalance,andshegavethattohim.
Thevideokeptplaying,secondaftersecond,oftheirhardrideagainstthedoor.He
couldseetheorgasmmountingwithinMorgan.Hersweetlipsparted.Shegroanedand
tightenedherlegsaroundhim.Hewatchedhergaspandcouldnearlyfeelhersilkenheat
alloverhim,evennow.Erasingthememoryofherscent,herreactions—Morganherself
—wasn’tgoingtobeeasy.
Jackshifted,adjustinghimselfinhispants.Hegrimaced.Howoftenwasherockhard
andreadytosinkballsdeepintoawomanfifteenminutesaftertakingher?Rarely.How
oftenhadawomanlingeredinhismindlikethisafteronemerefucking?Never.
Heexhaled.Whywasshedifferent?Thenhisgrandfather’swordshithimlikea
batteringraminthegut.Ifyou’redreamingaboutaredheadedwomanoverandover,
you’reabouttomeetherandshe’syourheart’smate.Impossible.Thewomaninhis
mind,hisdreams,wasjustafantasy.Itwasn’tnecessarilyMorgan.
Butshe’dfeltawholelotlikeafantasycometrue.
Onscreen,sheclawedathisback.Hecouldclearlyhearhersay,“Yes,more!So
good!”Shepantedonce,twice,beforeherlipsfeverishlybrushedhisneck.“Never
better.”
Jackshiveredinremembrance.Yes,ithadbeengood.Damngood.Spec-fucking-
tacular,ifhewashonest.Damnit,hehadnoneedtofuckheragain.Nowthathehad
proofthey’ddonethedeed,thispartofhisrevengewascomplete.She’dservedher
purpose.Andtherewasnosuchthingasaheart’smate.
“Jack!”HewatchedMorganscreamhisname,bounceonhim,takingpleasure,giving
it.
Hereinhischair,withhisgazefixedonherflushingbody,hisballstightened,
broilingwiththeneedtocomeagain.Hegrittedhisteethagainsttheurgetostrokehis
cockthroughhisjeans.
Buthecouldalsoseeherholdingsomethingback,keepingsomepartofherseparate
fromhim,removedfromhistouch.Somethinghehadn’tpickeduponwithhertight,wet
wallsclosingaroundhiscockandhisheartbeatdrumminginhisears.Hepeeredin,
fixinghisgazeonthegrainyscreen.Itremainedamystery.Whatthehellwasthatabout?
Afewbuttonslater,he’drewoundthefootageandplayedthelastfewmoments
again.Still,hecouldn’tdiscernwhatMorganhadkeptinside.Heonlyknewitpissedhim
off.Filledhimwithanoddsenseof…betrayal.Withtheneedtoearnherfullsurrender.
Cursing,Jackfinallysplicedthevideo,justincludingthelastminute,thosefew
momentsofMorgansayingshehadneverhaditbetter,thenshoutinghisnameasshe
came.MaybeBrandonwouldn’tnoticethatshewasholdingsomethingback.
Itwasathinmaybe.Brandonwasasonofabitch,butnotstupid.
Still,thiswasthebestfootagehehad.Itwouldbemorethanenoughtomakehis
pointwithBrandon.HecoulddealwithwhateverMorganwashidinglater.
Beforehecouldchangehismind,JacksentthesnippetofvideostraighttoBrandon
viaemail,alongwithafriendlylittlenote.
Howisthatcareerinpoliticsgoing,oldfriend?Jack
Howlong,hewondered,beforehis“pal”gotaneyefulofhisformerArmyRanger
squadronleaderfuckinghisfiancée?Andwhatwouldhedo?
Hedidn’tfightthecoldsmileofsatisfaction.
ButMorgancreptbackintohisthoughts.Hissmileslippedwhenhefantasizedabout
havingherspreadout,tiedup,onhisbedforhistaking.Utterlyathismercyandutterly
his.Wet.Begging.Willingandeagertohavehimfuckherineverywaypossible.
Andhewonderedwhathe’dhavetodotopersuadehernotjusttoleaveBrandon,but
tosurrenderthatpartofhershewithheld.
Hehadtoknow.Thisurgewasn’tgoingtogoaway,andheknewhimselftoowellto
believeotherwise.Screweverythingelse.Fornow,timewasonhisside.Morganwassafe
atthemoment.Herstalkerlikelyhadnoideawhereshewas.Itwashardforsomeone
whowasn’tAcadiantofollowasonoftheswampsintothisuntamedwilderness.
SoJackwouldseduceandcoaxMorganintosubmissionagain.Andagain.She’dleave
Brandon.Andhewouldhavethatpartofhershehadn’tgivenhimbefore.Thatparthe
suspectedshe’dnevergiventoanyman.Jackplannedtomakesureshegaveittohim—
whateverittook.
CHAPTERSIX
TwentyminutesafterJackslammedthedoorinMorgan’sface,shestoodinfrontof
theantiquemirrorhangingfromthebedroomwallandstudiedherappearance.She
lookedremarkablycalmforawomanwhosekneeswerestillshakingfromorgasmsso
strong,seismicequipmenthadsurelyfeltthetremors.
Scrubbedface,hairwhiskedbackinasingle,severebraiddownherback.Nothing
sexy…ifshedidn’tincludeAlyssa’stightpurplesubmissive-maidenleatherget-upinthe
picture.That,unfortunately,washardtoignore.
Shewasn’tabouttogoprowlingthroughJack’sclosetforsomethingelsetowear.Too
intimate.Chewingherlip,Morganhesitated.Shecouldn’taffordtohavethebastardto
thinktheoutfitwastheclosestthingtoanengravedinvitationforsex.Maybeifshegave
offherbestgetlostvibes,he’dbuyaclue.Ifnot…
Shecouldfindherselfscrewed—literally—again.
Andworse,she’dprobablyloveiteverybitasmuchasshehadthefirsttime.
Sighing,Morganpacedtheroom.WhatthehellwaswrongwithJack,anyway?They
hadfabulouslymind-blowingsexandheranaway?Ofcourse,ifhehadn’tbeathertoit,
shewouldhavedartedbehindadoorandslammeditbetweentheminworld-record
time.But,still…
Jackwasconfusingthecrapoutofher.Sheshouldbetheonefreakedout.Afterall,
shehadastalkerafterher.She’djustletadominantmanimpaleheragainstadoorand
drivehertotwodizzyingorgasms—afterinspiringthetwoshe’dgivenherself—allin
aboutfifteenminutes’time.
Herdesiretosubmittohim,toobeyhisraspyvoice,thickwithneedinherear,wasso
new—yetfeltsonaturalthatshehadn’tbeenabletoresist.She’drespondedtoevery
whisperedcommandasifhe’dpouredpureliquiddesirealloverherskinandletitseep
intoherblood.Inthosemoments,Jackhadmadewhattheyweredoingfeel…amazing.
Soperfectlynormal.Sorightthatshe’dached.Shehadn’tjustbeenacceptedasshewas,
butneededbecauseofit.ThesenseofconnectiontoJackhadsweptcommonsenseaside
andmadeherclingtohimlikealiferaftinahurricane.
She’dbarelybeenabletokeepherselftogetherwhilethepleasureJackgavetoreher
barriersdown.Somethingabouthimdemandedthesurrenderofmorethanherbody.
She’drefused,clingingtoherdefensesbyherfingernails—barely.He’dleftherreeling
andstunned.Butnotbroken.
ThenJackhadallbutrunfromher,tearingoffherrosecoloredglasses.Shewasinthe
middleofwho-knew-wherewithamanshe’donlyreallymetyesterday,wearing
borrowedclothes,withnoendtothenightmareinsight.Yetheranaway.Gee,she
guessedthathavingsexwithaclientwasabodyguardingno-no.
Themoreshethoughtabouthisbehavior,themoreitpissedheroff.Andithurt—
waymorethanshewantedtoadmit.
Withanimpatienthuff,sheturnedawayfromthemirror.Mr.CajunMachohad
anotherthingcomingifhethoughttheyweregoingtohavesexagain.Sohehadatouch
thatsizzleddesirethroughherblood,intoxicatingherlikethemostpotentwine.She
wasn’tgoingtoriskaddictionwitharepeatperformance.
Butjustthethoughtofithadherbodyclamoringformore,turningsoftandwetat
theprospectofexperiencingallhisdeterminedsexualfireandtightlycontrolledpower
again.
Sodamnstupid.NotonlydidJackhavetemporarywrittenalloverhim,theonly
messageabouthimthatwasevenmoreclearwastheonethatpronouncedhimavery
badboy.
Honestly,shedidn’tneedthis!
Downthehall,Morganheardtheclickofalock,theopeningofthedoor.Fromthe
heavyfootsteps,sheknewhe’demergedintothehall.Maybeitwasverythirteenyear-old
ofher,butshewasn’tinthemoodtofacehim.Notnow.Notyet.Lethimseehowthe
rejectionfelt.
Cringing,shedoveontothebedandquicklyfeignedsleepasJackmadehiswaydown
thehall.Hepausedatthebedroomdoor,butMorganwasn’tabouttoopenhereyes.
Seeingthattoosexyfacetauntingherwiththecarnalknowledgeofherbodyor
annoyance—orboth—wasnotherideaofagoodtime.LetRomeoeatbreakfastalone.
Thethoughtoffoodrightnowheldalltheappealofdogshitàlamode.
Afteralongmoment,Jack’sfootstepscontinueddownthehall.Sheheardaseriesof
electronicbeeps,thenaringing.Aspeakerphone.Whowashecallingatseven-thirtyin
themorning?
Sheroseandtiptoedacrossthebedroomtopeekaroundthecorner.Jackstoodthere,
cupofcoffeeinonehand,makingtoastwiththeother.Andstandingbythecracked
headsetwithanannoyedexpression.
“Jesus,Jack!”raspedascratchymalevoice.“Issleepinginagainstyourreligionordid
youjustfigurethatifyou’reup,everyoneelseshouldbe,too?”
Morgancouldn’thelpbutoverheartheconversation.Itwasn’tasifhewastryingto
bequiet.WhointheheckwasJacktalkingtoandwhy?Andshehadtoagreewiththe
otherguy;whyhadhecalledatthisearlyhour?
“Ididn’tsleepatalllastnight,Deke.SowhateveryougotinthewayofZ’sisway
morethanIgot.Quitwhining.”
“Haveyouturnedvampirenow?”
“Wanttoslityourwristsandmakeadonationtofindout?”
“Oh,bitingwit.Youarecrankythismorning.Gettoolittlesexlately…ortoomuch?”
Morganfeltthethickrushofembarrassmentfloodherskin.Please,pleasedon’tlet
Jackhavecalledsomefriendtodosomelockerroombragging.Thatwouldbethefinal
insulttohavingherfantasiesexposed,hercommonsensestrippedawayinahazeof
desire,thenbeingleftnaked,wet,andusedagainstavirtualstranger’sdoor.
Jackgrowled,“Stopbeingcuteandtrybeingabusinesspartner.I’moutatthe
swampcabin.I’vegotawomanwithastalker.Ineedyoutodosomeresearch.”
Morganbreathedasighofrelief.
“Noshit.Awomanwithastalker?”saidthemanJackhadidentifiedasDeke.“When
didshebecomeaclient?”
“Yesterday,whenhetookashotatherinbroaddaylightinacrowd.Iwassittingless
thantwofeetfromher.”
“Holy…Whatinfodoyouhave?”
Quickly,JackrandowntheinformationMorganhadgivenhimatdawn.Allthe
information—theminutedetailsofhersexualhistory,thankfullyexcludinghimself.
Despitethatsmallfavor,therushofmortificationreturned,alongwithfoot-stomping
fury.Gee,whynottakeoutabillboardalongthehighwayjusttomakesureeveryone
knewwhoshe’ddonethewildthingwithinthepast.
AndnowshehadJacktoaddtothelist.Whatonearthhadshedone?
Afterofferingtofaxcopiesofthelatestpicturesherstalkerhadleft,Jackhungup.He
pacedacrossthelong,narrowroomonce,twice,thenturnedhisgazetothehallway,his
face,barelyvisiblethroughthecrackinthedoor,alivewithpurpose.
Morganleaptbackontothebedandfeignedsleepagainashisfootstepssoundedhis
approach.
“Merde,”hesnarled,thenturnedaway.
Shedidn’tknowmuchFrench,butsheknewenoughtorealizehe’dsaidsomething
thathermotherwouldbehappytowashouthismouthwithsoapforsaying.
Momentslater,sheheardthedialtone,thebeepingandringingagain.Anothercall?
Didheexpecteveryonetobeawakeatthishour?
#
“Oui?”
“Grand-pere,goodmorning.”
“Thatitis,dearboy.Howistajoliefille?”
“HernameisMorgan,”hesaidwithforcedpatience.“Itoldyoubefore,she’snot
mine.”
“Maybe.Maybenot.Timetells,yeah?Shegotredhairunderthatwig?”
Jackhesitated.BricewasgoingtomakeentirelytoomuchofMorgan’shaircolor.It
didn’tmeananything.
Sowhatwasthatjoltofconnectionyoufelttoherwhenyouwereburiedballsdeep
withinherslick,wetheat?Whatwasthatsensationofwantingtocrawlinsideherand
ownher?
Reallygoodsexandtheknowledgethatshe’dbeenholdingsomethingbackhewas
determinedtohave?Hadtobethat…orinsanity.
“Ididn’tcalltodiscussMorgan’shair.”
“Shedoes,doesn’tshe!”Theoldmancrowed,thenlaughed.
“Grand-pere…”
“Itoldyou.Justyesterday,Itoldyou.Thosedreams,theymeansomething.”
Theoldmanwasnotgoingtogivethisup.“Okay,yes.Herhairisred.Happy?”
“Tresbon,”Bricesaidsmugly.“Shedressinganybettertoday,tajoliefille?”
“Actually,that’swhyIcalledyou.Canyoupickupafewthingsforhertowearina
sizesixandbringthemouttothecabin?”
“ThisIcando.I’mhavinglunchwithyourAuntCheré,thenI’llbeout.”
“Fine.Warm,practicalclothes,Grand-pere.Nosurprises.”
“Whyyouworriedaboutsurprises?I’llbringwhatyouneed.”
#
Timedraggedby.Morganbathedagain.Paced.Sheskippedbreakfast.
Jackstayedinhislockedroomattheendofthehall,pacingwithheavyfootstepsshe
couldn’thelpbuthear.
Whatdidhehavetobedisturbedabout?Thestalkerhadn’tcaughtuptothemyet,
andJackhadgottenlaid.Fromhisangle,ithadtolooklikeawin-winsituation.
Morganhadn’tbeenquitesolucky.She’dmanagedtoholdapartofherselfbackfrom
Jack—orthoughtshehad—butastimepassedandshecouldn’tshakethisdamn
yearningforhim.Itsankdeeper,growing,urginghertotouchhim.Morganfearedshe’d
givenJackachunkofherpsyche.Notagooddevelopment.
Asnoonapproached,shemadeherselfasandwich.TheonlydrinksinJack’s
refrigeratorwerebottlesofwaterandbeer.Normally,Morganwouldoptforthewater.
Today,shegratefullytookabeeranddisappearedintothebedroomagain,lyinglistlessly
onthebed.ShespenthourstryingnottothinkaboutJack,thewayhe’dtouchedher,the
wayhisvoicecrawledinsideherheadandherbody,thenseemedtochallengeher,own
her.Forgettingthepleasurethatsearedherwasprovingimpossible,notwhenshecould
closehereyesandstillfeelthepullofhismouthathernipple,thewidthofhiscock
stretchingher.Notwhenshecouldn’tforgetthatdemanding,compellingvoice,those
seducingdarkeyes.
Thethoughtsbroughtonfreshdesire.Thick,bubblingdesire,swirlinginsideherto
formaninsistentthrob.Herclitached,andshecouldnotbelievehowwetshewas,how
swollenherfoldsfelt.She’dneverbeenruledbyherhormones.Whynow?
Morganthoughtaboutself-pleasuringagain,butrefrained.Shedidn’twanttobe
caughtagain.Themortificationhadnearlykilledheronce,buttwiceinoneday…She
grimaced.Still,shemighthaveriskeditifshehadbelieveditwoulddousethefireraging
insideher.
ButthefirewasoneshefearedonlyJackcouldputout.
Aknockatthecottage’sfrontdoorstartledMorgan.Shewhirledtotheclockonthe
littlecypressbedsidetable.Nearlyfourthirtyintheafternoon.
Jacktoreopenthedoorfromhishidingplaceandstreakeddownthehall.Onhisway
past,hecastaheatedglanceintothebedroom,rightather,aglancethatsaidhe
rememberedeverykiss,everytouchbetweenthem—andthatasfarashewasconcerned,
theyweren’tdone.AquickglancedownhismuscledchestcoveredinatightblackT-
shirt,pastthosesix-packabs…Oh,hell.Hewashard.Therewasnomistakingthatbulge.
Needslammedintoherbelly.Hergazeflewbacktohis.
“We’lltalklater.”
Aboutsex.Hedidn’tspeakit,butthewordshungintheair.
“Ihavenothingtosay,”sheprotestedautomatically.
TalkingaboutsexwouldonlymakeherwanttohaveitwithJackagain.Badidea.
Already,shewasmorefixatedonhimthanwassmart,morethanshe’deverbeenona
man—eventheoneshe’dagreedtomarryonceuponatime.Shejustneededtoevade
thisstalker,figureoutwhoitwas,andgetbacktoherjobandthesanityofherlifein
L.A.
“Wehaveplentytodiscuss.Nowcomemeetmygrandfather.”
Morgancrossedherarmsoverherchest,refusingtobudge.
AnysatisfactionshegotoutofwatchingJackgrindhisteethcametoahaltwhenhe
stalkedacrosstheroom,hisintenttograbheranddraghertothedoorwrittenallover
hisface.Ifhetouchedher,shewouldonlywanthimmore.Thescaldingdesireinsideher
wasalreadytoohot,toodangerous.Anditmadehersoangryshecouldspit.
“Don’ttouchme.”Shejerkedawayfromhim.“Icanwalkonmyown.”
“ThengetyourprettyassmovingbeforeIpaddleit.”
Hereyesnarrowed.“Youwouldn’t.”
Hesnorted.“Wannatryme?”
No.No,shedidn’t.Hishardintenttoliftherpurpleskirtandspankherasswas
etchedintothedarkchallengeofhiseyes,intothehardlinesofhisaggressivestance.
Thethoughtoutragedher.Unfortunately,itarousedher,too.Moreofthecreamfrom
herarousalsoakedthelittlethongshewore,coatinghersexthoroughlywitheverystep
shetook.Sheprayedhecouldn’ttell.
“You’reabastard,”shemutteredasshewalkedpastJackandintothecottage’smain
room.
“IfyouwereexpectingPrinceCharming,I’msorry.He’swithhisboyfriend,”Jack
quippedashesailedbyherandpulledthefrontdooropen.
Anoldmanentered,carryingtwoshoppingbagsinhand.Instantly,shesawwhat
Jackwouldlooklikeinfiftyyears.Tall,leanwiththicksilverhairanddancingdarkeyes,themanambledintothecottagewithasmileteasingthecornersofhislips.
“Jack,”hegreetedwithanod.“YourauntCherésendsherloveandaloafof
homemadebread.”
Hereachedintooneofthesacksandretrievedaplasticcontainer.Morgansmelled
theyeastofthebreadblendwiththespiceoftheswamp’svegetationlazinginthe
temperateFebruaryday.Itwasunlikeanythingshe’deversmelled.Whichfit.Nothing
aboutbeingwithJackwasanythinglikeshe’deverexperienced.
Beforeshecouldprocessthethought,theoldmanapproachedher,wearinga
mischievoussmiled.“Morgan,I’mBriceBoudreaux,Jack’sgrand-pereonhismaman’s
side.”
Hestuckouthishand,andsheclaspedhistoshakeit.Instead,hebroughtherhand
tohislipsandgaveheragallantkiss.Despiteherdiscomfortinmeetinganoldman
whilewearingskimpypurpleleather,Morgancouldn’thelpbutsmile.She’dbetinhis
daythathehadalotofluckwitheverythinginaskirt.
“MorganO’Malley.”
Hissharpbrowngazeliftedtoherhair.“AbonnyIrishlasswithfierytresses.Jack
lovesredhair,don’tyou?”
Shedidn’tdarelookatJack,notwhenshefeltaflushclimbinguphercheeks.Didhe
haveathingforredheads?Thatwouldexplaintheoddconversationshe’doverheard
earlier.
“Grand-pere…”Jackwarned.“Stopmakingmischiefandgiveherthebag.”
AglanceatthebagtoldMorgantherewereclothesinsideit.Sheitchedtogether
handsaroundit,towearsomethingbesidesaget-upthatencouragedherrecklessness
andmadehermoreawareofhersexualitythanmeregarmentsshould.
Bricewasinnohurrytohandthebagover.
“Induetime.Can’tanoldmansitdownforaminuteandtalktoaprettygirl?”
HecastJackachallengingglance,thenshuffledovertothesofa,makingabigshowof
easinghiswearybonesdownontoacushion.Thenhesetthebagonthefloorbetween
hisfeetandpattedthespotbesidehim.
“Come,”hesaidtoMorgan.“Sitnexttoanoldman,yeah,andlethimrememberthe
dayshecouldhaveaskedsuchajoliefilleforadance.”
MorganslicedhergazetoJackfortranslation,browraisedinquestion.
“Prettygirl,”hesuppliedinalong-sufferingsigh.“Anddon’tbesuckeredinbyhis
old-manroutine.He’ssharpasatack,thatone.”
Briceharrumphed.“BoyforgetsI’meighty-two.”
“Grand-pereforgetsI’mnoidiot.”Jacksaidwithafondsmile.
Morganwatchedtheirbyplaywithanawarenessoftheirloveandaffectionforeach
other—andnotwithoutabitofenvy.Herbiologicalfatherhadneverwantedanythingto
dowithher,soshe’dbethisparentsknewnothingofher.Andhermother’sparentshad
disownedMamawhenshe’dbecomepregnantwhileunmarried.They’ddiedshortly
beforeMorgan’stenthbirthday,theriftunmended.She’dneverhadagrandparent,
muchlessacharacterlikeBriceinherfamily.
Theoldmanpattedthesofabesidehimagainandsentherahopefulglance.Unable
toresist,Morgangaveintothecharmer.
Jackgroaned.“He’samasterfisherman.Hejustbaited,hooked,andluredyouin.”
Mustruninthefamily,shethoughtbitterly.
“MaybeI’mcatchingherjustforyou,yeah,”Bricecountered.“Thankstothearmy,
thosenicemannersyourmamantaughtyouain’twhattheyusedtobe.Withoutmyhelp,
Idon’tthinkMorganwouldletyounearher.”
Shefroze,thenforcedarelaxingbreath.Theoldmancouldn’ttellwhathadhappened
betweenherandJackthismorning?ThankGod…
ButoneglanceinJack’sdirection,andMorganknewshewasintrouble.Hesenthera
hard,hotglancethatforcedhertorememberandpromisedmore,muchmore,untilshe
drownedinpleasure.Aravenousacheresoundedinhergut,echoingbetweenherlegs,
andshefelthernipplesswellagain.
Morganbitherliptoholdinagasp.Toobadshecouldn’tcontaintheflushcrawling
uphercheeks.
BriceglancedawayfromJack,overtoher.Anewsmiledancedathismouth,moving
thesalt-and-peppermoustacheaboveit.Helookedmightypleased.“AreyouCatholic,
Morgan?”
Thequestiontookheraback.“I—IwasraisedintheChurch.Yes.”
Jackgroaned.“Grand-pere,Morgan’sreligionisnoneofourbusiness.”
“Givenenoughtime,itmightbe.”Heslappedhiskneeandrosetohisfeetina
surprisinglysprymoveandhandedherthebagwithaCheshirecatsmile.
Wonderingwhattheheckhemeantbythatcomment,Morgancouldn’tescapethe
feelingtheoldmanhadpulledthewooloverhereyes.Hemightbeeighty-two,buthe
wasn’tslow—mentallyorphysically.Jackhadwarnedher…
“Putthosetogooduse.”Bricegesturedtothebagwithajerkofhisheadandawink.
ThenwithaslaponJack’sshoulder,theoldmanpracticallyskippedoutthefront
door.
#
Putthosetogooduse,Jack’sgrandfatherhadsaid.Fingeringthegoldensilkofthe
lace-edgedcamisoleandmatchingthong,MorgancouldtakeawildguessatwhatBrice
thoughtgoodusewouldentail.Anditprobablyinvolvedindulginginlasciviousacts
withJack—actsshe’donlyvaguelyheardabout.
Cursingunderherbreath,MorganstoodinJack’sbedroomstillwearingAlyssa’s
slut-in-purplecostumeandtriedtodecidewhattochangeinto.Bricehadbroughther
threesetsofundergarments,eachsexierthanthelast.Nothingelse.
“Damnit,Morgan!”Jackshoutedthroughthedoor.“Icalledyoutodinnerten
minutesago.Howlongdoesittaketogetdressed?”
“Longenoughtofigureouthowtocoveralltheessentialswiththeitemsyour
grandfatherbrought.”
“Whatthehell?”Jackflungthedooropenandbargedintotheroom.
Whenhesawthegarmentsallspreadoutonthebed,hestoppedandstared.
Hisgazerovedoverthegoldenlace-upcamisole,driftedtotheblackcorsetwith
garterbeltsandthigh-highstockings,thensettledontheburgundybratrimmedin
champagnelace—withcutoutssohernipplescouldpokethrough.Itcamewith
matchingcrotchlesspanties.
“Isthisallhebrought?”
“Yougotit.”
“Sonofabitch.”Jack’sexpressionshowedhisinnerwarbetweenannoyanceand
amusement.
“Thesearen’twarmorpractical,”shepointedout,sharinghisannoyance,butnoneof
theamusement.
Withaturnofhishead,Jackpinnedhisstareonher.Oh,sweetheaven…Heat
infusedthedarkdepthsofhiseyes,temptingasmeltedchocolate,aliveliketherich
earth.Sheknewinthatmomenthewasdoinghisbesttopictureherineachsetof
undergarments.
Worse,MorgancouldimagineherselfwearingthemforJack.Imaginehisreaction.If
theheartyerectioncurrentlystraininghisjeanswasanyindication,hewasmorethana
littleinterested.Thethoughtarousedherfarmorethanitshould.Hervaginaclenched,
spasmingwithneed.Beneaththeleather,hernipplesstabbedatherbra.
“Theydefinitelyaren’twarm,”heagreed.“Practical…well,thatdependsonthe
purpose.”
“SinceI’mnotheretoreenactapornflick,theyaren’tpracticalformypurposes.Was
thisajokeoramistake?”
“Neither.”
“Hewantsusto…”Morgan’seyeswidenedevenasshockraisedherbloodpressure.
“Fucklikerabbits?Absolutely.He’sallforanythingthatmightpersuademeto
remarry.”
Remarry?Herfirstthoughtwasthatshe’donlymetJackinpersontwenty-fourhours
ago,soleapingtotheconceptofmarriageseemedextreme.Hersecondthoughtwasthat
she’dneverwouldhaveguessedhe’dbeenmarriedbefore.
“You’vebeenmarried?”
Besideher,hestraightened,tensed.“Itwasshort.Wedivorcedthreeyearsago.End
ofconversation.”
Shefrowned.Thatmightbetheendoftheconversation,butthatwasn’ttheendof
theemotionsforJack.Clearly,hisdivorcestillhadthepowertohurtorpisshimoff.But
wisely,sheletitgo.Jack’spersonallifewasnoneofherbusiness.Diggingintotheman’s
pastwasonlygoingtomakehermorecuriousaboutthemanasawhole.Still,she
couldn’thelpbutwonderwhathadhappened.
“Chooseoneofthoseget-ups,”hesnapped,gesturingtothelingerieonthebed.“I’ll
giveyoumyrobeandapairofsocks,thencomeeat.Thefoodisgettingcold.”
Morganwantedtosayshe’djustwearwhatshehadon,butasthesunhadfallen,the
temperaturehaddroppedtoomuchforthat.Anditwasn’tthebestoutfittowearifshe
wantedtodiffusetheawarenessbetweenherselfandJack.Nottomentionthethongshe
currentlyworewasuncomfortablywetandclingingtoherswollenfolds—aconstant
reminderofherarousal.
“Thankyou,”shemurmured.
Hegruntedasheretrievedhisrobeandsocksfromanearbywardrobe,tossedthem
herway,andleft.
Morganchosetheitemsthatseemedtheleastracy.Shecrossedthehallandlet
herselfintothebathroom,goldencamiandthonginhand,andsetaboutchanging
Thenewthongwastiny.Alllaceasitwoundaroundherhips,bisectedthecheeksof
herass,andedgedthelegsofthegarment.Thefabriccoveringeverythingelse…totally
sheer.Themirrorinthebathroomshowedhertheexplicitwaytheoutrageouslyfeminine
laceframedtheredcurlsoverthedeltabetweenherlegs,showcasingthefierycolor.It
wasdesignedtomakeaman’seyeslatchontoawoman’smoundimmediately.Jack’s
eyes.
Ahitchofbothfearandarousaltickedinherbelly.
No,bad,badreaction…
Chastisingherself,MorganpeeledoffthebraAlyssahadgivenher.Thiscamisole
coveredlessthanthebra,ifthatwaspossible.Again,trimmedingoldenlace,itdipped
low,halfaninchabovehernipples.Itwasform-fittingandofferedgentlesupportbelow
herbreasts,butwascutlowin-betweentorevealcleavage.Delicatelacedecoratedthe
topandbottomedgesoftheutterlysheergarment,andservedasthetieinthelaces
betweenherbreasts,accentuatinghertightnipplespokingthethinfabric.
Morganwasprettysureshe’dneverlookedsexierinherlife.KnowingthatJackcould
incitehertomassive,broilingorgasmswassurelymakingherfeelhyperawareofherself
asawoman.Imagininghisreactiontothis…outfitwasarousingthehelloutofher.
Herimaginationneededtotakeavacation.
Butitwasmorethantheorgasms,asmuchasshehatedtoadmitit.WithJack,she’d
feltadizzyingfreedomunlikeanythingshe’deverknownwithalover.Afreedomto
wantwhatevershedesired.Andutteracceptanceofherlongings.Despiteherhead
tellingherthatherneedswerewrong,herbodyached.Shecoulddidn’tevenfully
comprehendwhatshecraved,butJackknew.Knowledgesizzledinhiseyes,inthethings
hesaidtoher.Jackcouldgivehereverythingshe’deverfantasizedabout.Allofthat
coupledwiththefeelingofsecurityshehadherewithhim,asifherstalkerwasamillion
milesaway,encouragedhertoexploreherdarksidewithherinfuriating,enigmatic
protector.
Shehadtogetagriponherself.Fantasiesweren’treality,andshedidn’treallywant
toperformallthoseactsthatwerespringingdeepfromherimagination.Really,she
didn’t.
Withshakinghands,MorgangrabbedJack’srobe.Shebeltedtheenormousthing
aroundherwaist,putonthesweatsocksthatweredoublethesizeofherfeetand
marchedtotheeat-inkitchen’sbleachedwoodtable,hopingshelookedfrumpy.
Whenshereachedthekitchen,shesawthatJackhadlaidoutsomethicksoupthat
hadanorangishbasewithlotsofriceandchunksofmeat,hisaunt’shomemadebread
andaslabofbutter.Asmallsaladsatinanotherbowl.Abigglassoficewatersatabove
hersilverware.
Jack,ontheotherhand,wasfistingabottleofwhiskeyandeyeingherasifshewasa
temptingtreat,unabletocompletelyshieldtheferalhungerinhiseyesthattoldherhe
wantedtostripher,cramherfullofhimself,andmakeherscream.Apparently,hedidn’t
seetherobeasfrumpy.
“Imadechickenandsausagegumbo,”heraspedashisgazerovedherface,downher
bareneck,tothehintofskinvisiblebetweenherbreasts.Heshiftedinhisseat.“Evereatgumbo?”
Sheshookherhead,wondering—thoughsheshouldn’t—ifhewasstillincredibly,
mouthwateringlyhard.
“It’sthickandspicy.”
Liketheairbetweenthem.Likethefleshhe’dfilledherwiththismorning.
Trembling,Morganlookedawayandstaredintohergumbo.Shehadtostopthinking
likethis,withnothingbutherhormones.Butshecouldn’teat,alltooawareofJack’s
starefixedonherasheheldthewhiskeybottleinhishand.
Morganswallowed,feelingherpulseaccelerate.“You’restaringatme.”
Heinclinedhishead.“Iam,cher.”
“Allyoucanseeisthisoverlargebathrobe.”
Jacksetthewhiskeyaside.Suddenly,shefeltherchairbeingdraggedalongthe
hardwoodfloors,closertohim.Shelookeddowntofindhisfoothookedaroundtheleg
ashepulleditbesidehis,rightnexttohisheatandspice.
“Yeah,I’mstaring.First,I’mmale,andyou’reagorgeouswoman.Second,I’m
wonderingwhichofthoseoutfitsofteasingtortureyoudecidedtoputonbeneathmy
robe.Third,Ihaven’tforgottenexactlywhatyoufeellikepulsingaroundmycock.”
Morgansuckedinairasdesireslammedintoher,leavinghershortofbreath.Clearly,
anyrestraintexhibitedherewouldbeuptoher.
Notgoodnews,sinceshedidn’thavemuch.
Heleaneddownandnuzzledthesensitiveskinbelowherear.Morganshiveredashe
said,“Youwereslickandtight,cher.Soamazingtofuck.Yourespondedtomy
commandslikeyouwereborntosubmit.Likeitwassonatural.I’vethoughtabout
nothingalldaylongexcepttyingyoudownandspendingmorning,noon,andnight
findingwaystomakeyoucomeuntilyouscreamyourthroatraw,thenbegformore.”
Blunt.Graphic.Unapologetic.Hiswordsshouldhavebeenaturnoff.Thefeministin
herthoughtsheshouldbeoffendedthathefoundhersopurelysexual.Shewasn’tthat
lucky.
Jackwashermind’snightmare—arrogant,demanding,difficult.Buthewasher
psyche’sfantasy—hot,untamed,determinedtohaveherandforcehertoexperience
everynaughtyfantasyherfeveredmindhadeverconjuredup.
Afreshrushofmoisturedampenedhernewthongandherclitbegantoacheanew.
Morganclosedhereyes.Thishadtostop.Hadto.Orshewasgoingtogivein.She
wasn’tsureshecouldlivewiththerepercussions—orherself—ifshedid.
“Jack,I’minterviewingyouforaTVshowaboutyourlifestyle,notinvitingyoutotell
meeveryoneofthethoughtslurkinginthedarkcornersofyourmind.Ifyoucan’tkeep
ittoyourself,youshouldtakemebacktomycar.I—I’llreturntoHoustonand—”
“Andwaitforyourstalkertofindyou?Rapeyou?Shootyou?Killyou?We’vebeen
overthis.You’reinthemiddleofaswampandmuchsaferhere,surroundedby
sophisticatedsecuritysystemsandabodyguard,thanyouareanywhereelse.Mybuddy
Dekeisputtingtogetheraprofile.Oncewehaveit,wecanfigureoutwhoyourpsychois
andnailhim.Untilthen,Ithinkyou’dbewisetostay.Unlessyou’remoreafraidofsex
thanastalker?”
Damnit,he’dpickedtheworstpossibletimetobelogical.“Ofcoursenot.You’rejust
makingmeuncomfortable.”
“Thetruthismakingyouuncomfortable;I’mmerelymakingyouawareofit.Iwant
you.Youwantme.It’sprettysimple.”
“It’soversimplified,bigboy.”
Hegrabbedthebottleofwhiskeyandtookalongswallow.Morganwatchedin
fascinationashisAdam’sapplebobbedinhistight-muscledthroat.
Whenitwasempty,hesetthebottleonthetable.“Youcan’tlie,cher.Youreyes,they
tellmeyouwanttobecuffedandclampedandfuckedoften.Andyouwantmetobethe
onedoingit.”
Mindtryingtooutracethedesiresearingherbrain,sheshookherhead.“Look,we
bothhadanitchthismorningandwescratchedit.After,youranasifIwasdiseased.
Youcouldn’tgetawayfrommefastenough.Ifyouhadn’t,Iwouldhave.We’redone
witheachother.”
“Youthink,littlegirl?Whatwedid,itwaspowerful,yeah,”hesaid,thosedarkeyes
boringintoher,forcinghertolisten,willinghertounderstand.“IfIhadn’tleft,Iwouldhavecarriedyoutothebed,tiedyoudown,andnotletyouupuntilI’dfuckedallofyour
perfectpinkentrancesandfoundeachofyourhiddensensitivespotsandeveryway
possibletodriveyourbodyinsane.”
Morgangasped.Thatshouldnotarouseher.Theideathathewouldhavetouchedher
anywherehepleased,demandedablowjoband,ifshelookhimliterally,analsex,
absolutelyshouldn’tmakeanypartofherleapwithexcitement.Curiosityandwicked
fantasieswereonething.Actuallyindulging…No.
Buttherewasnodenyingthedesirethatchargedthroughherwiththeforceofan
invadingarmy,pulsingneedandheatintoherclit,makingherbeadednipplesache.
JustliketherewasnodenyingthatifshetriedtoleavehereandreturntoHouston,
thepersonafterherwouldverylikelytrytokillheragain.Andthistime,hemight
succeed.
Sheletoutashakybreath.Whatahellofaplacetobe,trappedbydangerwithaman
capableofgivingheramazingpleasurewhilemakinghersubmittoeverywickeddesire
she’deverdenied.Damnit,she’dbeenfightingherwantssinceAndrew’srejection,
warringagainstherdarksideuntilshehurt.Shecouldn’tjustrolloverandspreadher
legsforadominantstranger—nomatterhowappealinghernewlyawakenedbodymight
findthatnotion.
“IgrantyouthatI’mmuchsaferherethaninHoustonorLosAngeles.I’mnot
stupid,andIknowIcan’tfightamanIhaven’tseenanddon’tunderstand.”
“But?”
“Iwantthingsplatonic.I’msupposedtointerviewyou.You’resupposedtoprotect
me.Nowhereinthosejobdescriptionsisthewildthingmentioned.Wegotwaaaaayyy
offtrackthismorning.”
Jackleanedcloser,untilshefelthisbreathonhermouth,smellingfaintlyofwhiskey
andsomethingspicy.“Platonic?”
“Youknow,polite.Friendly.”Morgantriedtoscootherchairaway.“Nosex.”
Hewasn’tbudging.“Iknowwhatitmeans,Morgan.Whydoyouthinkweshouldn’t
behavingthemostamazingsexoftheyearwitheachother?”
“Idon’twantwhatyouwant.I’mjustnotintoyour…scene.”
Shefocusedonhergumbo.Itwouldbeeasierifshecouldtellhimshethoughthis
desiresweretwistedandwrong.Hurtinghimmightmakehimgoawayfaster.Buthaving
beenonthereceivingendofsuchslurs,shecouldn’tdoittohim.
You’renotatalentedaliar,either,avoiceinherheadwhispered.Sheshuthereyes
againstit.
“And,”shewenton,“despitewhathappenedearlier,I’mnotacasualsexperson.”
Jacksaidnothingforthelongestminute.Hesimplystared,asiftryingtodecipherher
everythought.Hedidn’ttouchher.Hejuststared—hard,hot,asifhewaspicturingand
plottingtodoeverywickedthingtohershe’deverimagined.Theexplosivedesireonhis
facerippedpastherdefenses,searinghercleartoherunrulyimagination,toher
throbbingclitstillsohungryforhim,totheinexplicabledrawshefeltinhersoultohim.
Damnit,shehadtogetawayfromhim,now.Morganwrappedtherobe’slapels
tightlyaroundherselfandstartedtorise.
Heclampedahandaroundherarm,holdingherinplace.“Thosearetheonly
reasons?You’renotintocasualandyou’regoingtokeeplyingtoyourselfthatyoudon’t
likethewayIfuckyou?”
“Iwantyoutostopsayingsuchoutrageouscrapandagreetokeepourinteraction
professional.”
“Youwantmetopromisenottotouchyou?”Hisgriptightenedonherarm.
“I’vebeensayingthat,yes.”
Chinhigh,eyesdeclaringherresolve,Morganhopedshelookedconvincing.She
hopedthatJackhadnoideathatinside,herheartthreatenedtobeatoutofherchest.
Thathisnearness,scent,andtouchjustbroughtbacktherushofpleasureand
exhilarationshefeltwhenhe’dbeendeepinsideher.
“You’vebeensayingit;Ijustdon’tbelieveit.”Jacklaughed,anironicchuckle,
completewithamockingsmile.“Whatareyouafraidof,cher?IfIdon’texciteyou,then,
whenItouchyou,sayno.Ifyou’renotinterested,thatshouldn’tbetoohard.”
“Ishouldn’thaveto!”Morgangaped.“You’repissingmeoff.Can’tyoujustbea
gentlemanandagree?”
“Withchemistrylikeours,no.EvenifIwantedtokeepmyhandsoffyou,whichI
don’t,itwouldonlybeamatteroftimebeforeIwasballsdeepinsideyou,pounding
away.”
“Stop,damnit!That’snottrue.Idon’tsayyestoeverymanwhosnapshisfingers.”
Heslidhispalmupherarm,tohershoulder,thendivertedtoherbreast.Histhumb
encounteredahardnippleandflickedit,asiftomakeapoint.Shegasped,thenbither
lipassherealizedherhugeerror.Jackgaveheralong,wickedsmile—thekindthatonly
madehermorewet.Betweenthatandhistouch,heturnedheronaseasilyasheflipped
onalightswitch.Thehardpulsebetweenherthighswassomethingshecouldn’tignore.
“Sureitis.Thestreetisgoingbothways,here.Icantell,”hesaid.“AsIseeit,myjob
iskeepingyousafe.ButI’mgoingtoshowyouwhatyourbodycravesandhelpyoube
honestwithyourself.That,”hecaressedthehardpointofherbreastagain,“ismy
pleasure.”
Thenhereleasedherandrose,gumbobowlinhand.
“Maybeyou’relyingtoyourselfaboutwhatIwant,”sheblurtedtohisretreating
back.“Didyoueverthinkofthat?Maybeyou’retotallyoffbase.”
Jackpaused,turned,andpinnedherwithabluntstarethatmadeherheartstop.“If
thatwasthecase,youwouldn’tbewetenoughformetosmell,andIwouldn’tknowthat
you’dsoakedtwothongsinoneday.”
#
Hazymorning.Sunlightslantedacrosstheswampinlazygoldenraystosettleonhis
porch,illuminatingthesmallfigureofawoman’sfierytressesastheycascadeddownher
narrowback,coveredbyaman’sdarkshirt.Hisshirt.
Contentmentandyearning.Hopeandneed.Andlust.Itallhithimasshetiltedher
head.Acornerofhermouthhintedatasmile.Happy.Hewantedtoseeherhappy,
protected.
He’dneverlovedanyonesomuchinhislife.
Thewoman,amystery,washis.Jackknewthataswellasheknewhisownname.
Justoncehewantedtoseeherface.Aftersixmonthsoffutiledreamingandwaking
uphardwithnoreliefinsight,offeelingthisyearningforawomanhe’dneverseen,he
neededtoknowwhoshewas.
Turnaround!hesilentlydemanded.
Slowly,sodamnslowly,shebegantoturnhisway.Adelicateear,agracefulneck,a
stubbornslopetoherjaw,fairskinlikeporcelain.Thatwasmorethanhe’deverseenof
thiswoman,butthegreedypartofhimwantedmorebaredtohisgaze.Hewanted
everything.Shekeptturning.Ahintofappleinhercheek…
Jackjoltedawake.Damnit!Soclosethistime.Soclose…buthestillcouldn’tseeher
face.
Stirringfromafitfulsleeponthesofa,Jackopenedhiseyesandglancedathiswatch.
Justaftermidnight.Nowwhat?
Helaidbackonthecouch,breathinghard,grittinghisteethagainstasteel-inspired
erectionthatalwaysfollowedthedream.Thefuckingthingtormentedhimmore
frequentlythesedays—nearlyeverynightforthepasttwoweeks.Why?
Certainlyhisgrandfatherandtheoldman’scrazytheoriesaboutsoulmatesand
dreamingofdestinedloverswasallbullshit.Ithadtobe.Iftherewasanysuchthingasa
womandestinedtobehis,hewouldn’ttorturehimselfwithadream.He’dsimplyfind
herandclaimher.Andproveshewasjustanotherwomanhecouldwalkawayfrom.End
ofstory.
Jackwasperfectlyhappywiththatexplanationexcept…whydidthewomaninhis
dreamhavethesamehairasMorganifthedreamwasirrelevant?WhydidMorganfeel
likemorethanthemeanstohisrevengewhenhetouchedher?
Shovingthestraythoughtaside,Jackblinked,tryingtoridtiredeyesofthegritof
exhaustion.Lastnight,hehadn’tsleptevenahandfulofhours.Tonightwasnodifferent.
HavingthesenocturnalvisionshauntinghissleepandMorganunderhisroofwasn’t
helpinghimcatchuponhisbeautyrest.
Andjudgingfromtheerectionthrobbinginsidehisboxerslikeaninsistent
toothache,alongwithvestigesofthedream,hewasn’tlikelytogetmuchmoresleep
tonight.
Risingwithastretch,Jacksighedanddonnedhisjeanswithagrimace.Immediately,
histhoughtsturnedtoMorgan.
Whycouldn’theleaveheralone?He’dtackledabigpartofhisrevengeandemailed
BrandonRosstheproofthathe’dbeenasdeepinsidehisenemy’swomanasamancould
get.Now,hisrevengewouldbecompleteassoonasMorganleftthedisloyalassholeshe
plannedtomarry.
Butwhatifshedidn’t?Lotsofwomenwantedtobemarriedtooneoftheesteemed
SenatorRoss’ssons.Money.Power.Connections.Goodlooks.Brandonhadallthat,but
he’dneverhaveapoliticalcareerofhisown.Jackhadmadedamnsureofthat.
Still,thatdidn’tsolvehisproblem.IfMorganandBrandondidn’tpartways,revenge
wouldbeincomplete.Thathadtobewhyhedidn’tfeelmorevictoriousnow.
Jackpaced,spearinghandstensewithfrustrationthroughhishairtooshorttobe
ruffledbysuchamauling.
Maybehewaslookingatthisallwrong.Afterviewingthelittlevideohe’dsent,
soonerorlater,jealousywouldstarteatingBrandon’sgut.Noquestionaboutit.Whena
manhadawomanlikeMorgan,hewantedtokeephersafeandwholeandsosatedthat
theideaofsexwithanothermannevercrossedhermind.OnceBrandonhadtimeto
gnawonthevisualevidencethatMorganhadstrayed—andwithhisenemy—theidiot’s
pridewoulddemandhelethergo.
Frowning,Jackrealizedatacticalerrorinthatplan.BrandondumpingMorgancould
causeherpain.Thethoughtofheranguishmadehimwanttoflayhimselfwithawhipof
selfcensure.
NotonlywouldBrandonleavingMorganhurther,itwouldn’tsatisfythewrithing
massofhatehehadinhisgutforBrandon.InorderforJacktogetclosure,Morganmust
realizethatshedeservedsomeonewhounderstoodher,amanwhocouldgiveherwhat
hermindandbodycraved.ShehadtoacknowledgethatBrandoncouldn’tsatisfyher.
AndJackfigureditwashisjobtoprovethatveryfacttoher.
HowcouldhetempthertoleaveBrandon?
Pacingacrosstheroom,towardthecottage’slonebedroom,Jackpushedopenthe
door.
Holyshit.Morganhadpushedoffhercovers,baringherselftothenight.Hewished
shewasbaretohim.Whilethatwasn’tactuallythecase,itwasclose.Sheworenextto
nothing,onlythegolden-lacecamisoleandthong.Moonlightspillingintotheroom
bathedthesweetblush-pinknipplesandfieryfringeofherpussyinasoftsilverlight.It
calledattentiontothingshelovedaboutherbodyandmadehimwanttohowlatthe
moon,absolutely.
Coaxinghiswayintothatbed,intoherbodyagain,wasasnecessaryasdrawinghis
nextbreath.Itwastheeyeforaneyethevindictivepartofhimcraved.
Buthisdesirehardlystoppedthere.Andhefeareditwasaboutmorethanrevenge.
HiscockgaveagreedyleapatthethoughtofhavingMorganagain,inanywaythat
wouldbringthembothtoscreamingpleasure…Thewantwasablastofheatdrilling
straightthroughhiserectionandhisbrain.Damnedodd,really.Hedidn’tfixatelikethis.
Awillingwomanwascauseforagoodmoodandgoodtimes,always.
Thiswas…more.
HisbodywentwildatthethoughtofteachingMorganabouthersexuality,aboutthe
desiresthathauntedhertosweatingresistanceandwhimperingwailsofpleasure.He
achedtoshowherhowtotakeanythinghedishedout,givetheburnbacktohim,and
shareinthemind-blowingmentalandphysicalsatisfaction.
Thelikelihoodofthathappening…Jackshookhishead.Shewasn’tgoingto
surrendereasilyorwithoutafight,andhewasn’touttobreakher.Justshowherhow
muchsatisfactionshe’dfindinsubmission.
Stalkingintothebedroom,Jacklitafewcandlesthroughouttheroom,thendropped
himselfintothechairinthecornerandstared,absentlyadjustingtheunyieldinglength
ofhiscockinhisjeans.
Howdidhetempthertotakeawalkonthewildsidewithhimsohecouldproveto
hershecouldbejustasfreeandsubmissiveassheyearnedandstillbeokaywithherself
—allwhileconvincinghertoleaveBrandonsohecouldachievethevengeancehe’d
plottedfornearlythreefuckingyears?Howdidhegethertogivehimthatpartofherself
she’dheldbackfromhimbefore,theparthewassureshe’dnevergivenanyman?
Amischievoussmileliftedhislipsasanideaoccurredtohim.Simple,direct,
effective.Eagertoputitinmotion,hejoggedbacktohislockedenclaveandretrieved
twopairsofheavyvelvetropes.
Letthegamesbegin…
CHAPTERSEVEN
Morganwokeslowly,driftingonthehazeofaneroticdreamwhereshelayonthe
grassnakedtothemoonlight,armstossedaboveherheadinabandonastenderpullsat
hernipplescreatedapoolofsweetpleasurebetweenherlegs.Shewrithed.Silvery
moonbeamsworshippedher,caressingtheundersideofherarms,herbelly,thetopsof
herthighswithafeatherytouch.Shemoaned.
Leavesfellfromthetreesaboveinalightsummerybreeze,driftingdowntoglide
overbarebreasts,sensitivenipples.Againandagaintheleavesdroppedfromtheirtrees
andfoundtheirwaytoherbody,thegentleabrasionoftheirtextureonherskinslowly
awakeninghersensualneed.
Oneleafhadasharpedgeasitdriftedacrossherbody.Aslightstinginthehardpeak
ofherbreastsurprisedher.Shetriedtododgetheleaf,butitwasgone,replacedbya
glideofheat,thenasuddenwellofdesirebetweenherlegs.Anothersharpleafpinched
attheothernipple.Anotherswellingofdesirebloomedinsideher.Shearchedtothe
gentlepainandwasagainrewardedwithafreshfloodofheatandmoisture.
Theachebetweenherthighsbecameathrob,adrumbeatinsideherbodycallingfor
release.Morganmoaned,shifted.
Beneathher,thegrassseemedoddlysmooth.Shetriedtositupbutwasunableto
move.Anotherleafdriftedoverherleftbreast,smooth,silky,gentlyrousing.Itwas
quicklyfollowedbyasharpleafthatcurledaroundhernippleandbit.
Painfadedaninstantlater,replacedbyamercilessneedinthetighttipsofher
breasts.Shearched,seekingmore,asanotherleafdrifteddownherabdomenand
brushedoverthetopofhermound.
Sensationsmounted,oneontopoftheother,untilherbodydemandedmore.She
struggledtomove,totouchherself—onlytofindshecouldn’t.Anotherleafclamped
downononenipple,thistimeharderthanbefore.Shecriedout.Perspirationdampened
theskinbetweenherbreastsandthick,liquidwantconvergedintoaunendingache
betweenherlegs.
Morganopenedhereyesandthrewoffthelastvestigesofsleep.
Andquicklydiscoveredthatherbreastsweren’tbeingtormentedbyleaves,butby
thesmoothslideofJack’stongue,followedbytheeroticnibbleofhisteeth.
Beforesheevenknewwhatshewasdoing,Morganarchedup,herbodysilently
offeringhersensitivenipplestoahot-eyedJack,overrulinganythinghermindmight
havesaid.
“That’sit.Goodgirl,”hemurmuredhotlyacrossherbreasts.
Candlelightglowedsoftlyasshelookeddownherbodyandrealizedthathe’d
unlacedthecamisoleandpulleditwide,completelyexposinghertwinmoundsandtheir
hardpeaks.
Asifinslowmotion,Morganwatchedhimlowerhismouthtoheragain,hiswide,
bareshouldersbulged,apulseraisingshadowinthemoonlitroom,asheeclipsed
everythingintheroombuthim.Shepulledatherarmsandlegs,desperatetoembrace
him.Instead,shefoundthemboundfirmlytothefourpostersofJack’sbed.
God,shewastotallyathismercy.Thatrealizationjoltedherwitharushofdark
pleasure—andthatscaredthehelloutofher.
Awarningboomedinherbellylikethunder.Thehardclampofdesireplaguingher
drownedit.Themanmadeherwant,sobadlythatdragginginasteadybreathwas
difficult,somuchthatfinishingacoherentthoughtwasimpossible.
WhatwasitaboutJackColeandthewayhetouchedher?
Heignoredherwrithingandpepperedthefullsidesofherbreastwithsoftkisses,
lavedthenerve-heavytipswithaboldswipeofhistongue.Thehardheatofhischest
brushedoverherbelly,andherbodyfeveredformoreofthesilkyburnofhisskin,his
mouth.Hernipplestightenedmore,untiltheybecamepointedrednubsthatbegged
himtocontinuewithanything,everything,hewanted.
Inresponse,Jackpinchedhernipples,twistingslightly.Asharpmixofpainand
pleasurehadhercryingouthisname.
“I’mhere,cher,tofulfilleveryforbiddenfantasyswimminginyourmind.”
Desirejoltedherbody,makingherbuckunderhistongueasheresumedthesensual
tortureonhernipples.Shedrewinanothershudderingbreathashistonguecurled
aroundthethrobbingtip.Shewhimpered.Themanwastwistingherinsideout,turning
herintoawantonstranger.Intoawomannearlywillingtosayyestoanything.
Jackdidn’tsimplywanttogiveherpleasure;hewantedtocontrolher,addicther,
turnherintothedepravedwantonAndrewhadbeensocontemptuousof.She’dnever
beenanyman’sdoormat.Shewasn’tstartingnow.
“No,”shepanted.“Stop.Ididn’tagreetothis.Idon’twantthis.”
Herakedapairoffingersthroughtheexposedslitofhersex.Morganknewshewas
morethandamp.Shewasembarrassinglywet,swollen.Aching.Histouchonlyramped
upthepleasure,madethickmoisturegushfromherweepingopeningagain.
Hesentheralow,sexychuckle.Hiswell-muscledtorsorippledwitheverymoveand
madethewickedpartofherachetoputherhandsalloverhisbodyandfeelhisvitality.
“Yourmouthissayingthewords,butyourbodyismakingaliaroutofyou.”His
whispertaunted,challenged.“Areyousureyoudon’twantthis?”
“Areyoudeaf?IsaidIdidn’tagreetothis.”Sheaccused,“YoustillthinkI’m
submissive.”
“No,Idon’t.”
Morganarchedafierybrow,fightingallthesparksofpleasureleapingthroughher
body,burningawayhercommonsense.“Good.Finallygettingsmart?”
“Cher,Idon’tthinkyou’resubmissive;Iknowit.”
Shegapedathim,thenshuthermouth.Bastard!Fine.Hewasentitledtohisopinion.
Shehadherown,thankyouverymuch.
Heclampedhisfingersaroundhernipplesagainandsqueezed.
“Stopit.Ididn’tgiveyoupermissiontotouchme.”
Inaninstant,hissmiledisappeared.
“Iwon’taskforpermission,sostopplayingthisgame.Thebravewomanwhotooka
chancewithmeafterbeingshotat,thewomangutsyenoughtoalterherappearanceto
disappearinastrangetownwiththehelpofamanshe’dknownforallofafewminutes
—hell,thewomanwhotalksaboutsexonTV…youarethatwoman,nottheonewho
keepsrunningfromherself.”
Hiswordssmackedherbetweentheeyes.Shebuckedagain,strugglingtobreakfree.
He’dcalledheracowardfortryingtobesane!Unreal.“I’mnotrunningfrommyself.I’m
gettingawayfromyou!Iwantedprotection,notamauling.”
Sendingherasharpsmile,Jackeasedahanddownherribcage,overherhip,asoft
contrasttotheunyieldingbindingsatherwristsandankles.Damnhimforbeingso
warmandlookingsoscrumptiousshirtless,sototallymaleandconfusingthehelloutof
her.Hecouldmakeherneedyandangryatonce.Andangrybecauseshefeltneedy
Damn!Hewasusinghisexperiencetocrowdher,cloudherjudgment,overpowerher
goodsense.
Andshehadtostopherbodyfromfallingforit…
“Thatwasmeagainstthedoorthismorning,”shegroundout.“I’mnotrunningand
I’mnotplayingagame.You’rejustexpectingsomethingthat’snotme.”
“Yeah,thatwasyouthismorning,butitwasn’tallofyou.You’recapableofdeeper
submission.Youletmetouchapartofwhat’sinsideyou.Butyouheldback.Yeah,Isaw
that;don’tlooksurprised.Thedeeppart,thedarkonethatwantstobedominatedand
fucked,that’sthepartyouhidfromme.Thatyoudenyexists.Youhavethegutstodefy
thissickassholetryingtostalkyou,butnotenoughtotakethepleasureI’moffering.”
Morganignoredtheheatwavethatflowedinwithhiswords—andthesightofhis
thickerectionpushinginsistentlyathisjeans.Shefocusedonherangerinstead.“Maybe
beingaroundtoomanyfemaledoormatshadmadeyouassumeallofuslivetorollover
andspreadourlegsforyouoncommand.”
“Youwanttosubmitbecauseyou’restrong,becausewhenyou’refucking,youdon’t
wantresponsibility.Youwantamanwhocanunderstandyouandgiveyouwhatyou
need—allwithoutaword.”
“IsthatthekinkyversionofDr.Phil?”
“Watchthatmouth,cher.Iownaballgag.Iknowhowtouseit,”hegrowled.
Athisgravellythreat,Morgan’smouthsnappedshut.Furyanddesirebothspiked
insideher,threateningtoboilupandupuntilitallexploded.
“Ilistenedtoyou.Iknowyou’vebeenlookingforamanstrongenoughtoforceyour
surrenderinthebedroom.You’veneverexploredyourdarkside,cher.Iknowyou’ll
respondperfectlytowhatIwant.Isenseitinyou,seeitinyou.”
Maleconfidenceandthephysicalpowertobackitup—allwiththatsmoothcontrol
thatwreakedhavoconhersenses.Heavenhelpher.Jacklookedsoconvincedofevery
wordhesaid.Morgantrembled.Formostofherlife,she’dhad…urges,curiosities.
Fantasies.Didn’teveryone?Thatdidn’tmeanshewantedthosefantasiestobecome
reality.
Sheshookherhead.“Ifyou’dstoppushingyourtwistedneedsonme,you’dfigure
outI’mjustanormalgirl.”
Hisshoulderstensed,armsbunched.Helookedreadytogrindhisteeth.
Thenhisexpressionsmoothed,untilnotraceofanger,oranyemotion,remained.He
merelyleanedoverandworkedattheknotsatherleftwrist,thenherright.Herepeated
theprocesswithherankles,carefulnottotouchheranywhere.Thatquickly,shewas
unboundandfree,nolongerathismercy.
Anoddemotionslammedher,likeshewas…empty.Bereft.Morgancurledherknees
uptoherchestandwatchedJackyankonhisshirt.Hedidn’tlookather—oravoidher,
either.Itwasasifshewasirrelevant.Shefeltsuddenlyalone,eventhoughhewasinthe
room,gatheringupthevelvetropes.
“Jack…”sheblurted,withouthavinganyideawhatshewasgoingtosay.Morganonly
knewhisindifferencehurt.
“Yes?”
Thatexpression.Hecouldhavebeentalkingtoanyone—acompletestranger,about
nothingmorevitalthantheweather.
Theironyofhisaccusationfiredhertemper.“Talkaboutplayinggames!Youdon’t
getyourway,soIgetthecoldshoulder?”
Heambledbacktothebedandeaseddownonit,agoodtwofeetaway.Nopartof
himtouchedher,andsheachedforhishandsonher.
Whatthehellwasthematterwithher?
“Ifyou’renotwillingtobewhoandwhatIknowyouare,Icanonlygiveyouwhatyou
askedfor:platonicandprofessional.”
Morganknewsheoughttoberejoicing.She’swasn’tsubmissiveatheart.Afew
scatteredfantasiesdidn’tmakeheranydom’sdreamboat.Shewasn’treallywiredlike
that.
Sowhydidpartofheryearntocallherwordsback,returntothemomentshe’d
awakenedanddiscoveredhisbeautifullybarechestcrowdingherashebentovertolap
athernipplewithhisblazingtongue?
Yeah,andwhatwouldyoudoifyoucould,justspreadyourlegslikeamindlesstwit?
Morganhonestlydidn’tknowtheanswer.Shejustknewshecouldn’tlettheconversation
endwiththischillbetweenthem.
“You’reangry.”
“Resigned,”hecorrected.“You’regoingtohidefromyourself,andthat’sthat.I’ll
leaveyoutogobacktosleep.”
Standing,hesentheraregretfulglance,thenturnedhiswidebackonher.
Morganstaredatthesolidbreadthofhisshouldersstretchinghissleekgoldenskin.
Power,control,intelligence,patience.Everythingshe’deverwantedinaman.Andshe
waslettinghimwalkaway.
Didthatmakeheracoward?OrhadshejustletJackcrawlintoherheadandconfuse
thehelloutofher?
Shebitherliptokeepherresponseinside,butthewordsscorchedthroughhermind
andwerequicklyoutofhermouth.“Fine.I’vehad…thoughtsaboutsubmitting.Nothing
serious.”
Jackpausedandturnedtolookatheragain,expressioncarefullyblank.
“Goon.”
Consciousofhernearnudity,Morgankeptherarmstightlycurledaroundherknees,
coveringherbarebreasts.“I’dbelyingifIsaidithadnevercrossedmymind.Ijust
knowme.Andthat’snotme.”
“Whydoyouthinkthat?”
Shefrowned.“Whyshouldn’tI?”
“You’veneverbeensubmissivetoanyofyourpreviouslovers.Howcouldyouknow
somethingisnotforyouwithouttryingitatleastonce?Ifyou’rehavingfantasies,the
realitymaybeevenmoreappealing.”
ThoughtschasedoneanotherinMorgan’shead.Hecouldn’tberight.Sheonlyhadto
smellcookedcabbagetoknowshedidn’tlikeit,right?
Weakanalogy.Thefactwas,sheavoidedsubmittinginpartbecauseoftheshame
Andrewhadforcedonher,becauseofthehorrorsheknewhermotherwouldexpressif
Morgangaveintosuchwickedurges.
Theotherreason…theideatemptedhermorethananythinghadinherlife.She
fearedaddiction.
Jackleanedcloser,makingithardforhertoprocessherthoughtslogically.He
smelledamazing.Manandspice,cypressandleatherandwarmskinallrolledintoone
incrediblyattractivepackagewithabssotightshecouldprobablybounceaquarteroff
them.Themanwastemptationontwolegs.
Whatifshetriedsubmitting?Tohim.Justonce.
Ifshelikedit,Andrewwouldberight.She
wasn’t…abnormal,wasshe?
“Icanalmosthearthethoughtsspinninginthatprettyheadofyours,cher.You’re
thinkingtoohard.It’ssimple.”
“No,it’snot!It’smybody,my…”Morganshookherhead,tryingtoputitintowords.
“Yourlife?Thewayyouseeyourself?Iknow.Butwouldyourathertellyourselfyou
wereadventurousenoughtotrysomethingonceorhavetoadmitthatyouweresoscared
youranawaybeforeevendippingyourtoeinthewater?”
Whythehellwashepushingsohard?
“Stop!Thisisaboutyou.Youjustwanttogetlaid.”
Heslantedheraself-deprecatingsmile—onethatmadehertoescurl.“Iwantyou,
maisyeah.I’vemadenosecretaboutthat.ButIalsodon’twanttoseeyoumiserable
whenthetruthcouldfreeyou.”
“I’mnotmiserable.Ilovemylife!”
“I’msureyouloveeverypartofyourlife…exceptsex.Ifyouhavethecouragetofind
thetruth,spendonenightwithme,”hechallenged.“Justone,butmyway.Tomorrowif
youdidn’tlikeit,noharmdone.I’llnevertouchyouagain.”
Lord,thereitwas—achallengetofindthetruth,onethatcouldbebothsimpleand
ugly.
Morgansighed.Jackwasright.Shehadneverenjoyedsex,neverexploredthesideof
herpsychethatwrackedherwithfevereddreams.Maybe…maybethosetwofactswere
related.Maybeitwastimetoassuagehercuriosity.She’dindulgeherwickedfantasies
once,andwhenthey’dbeenfulfilled,she’dbeoverthem.
AndifJackwasjustusingherforsex…well,whycouldn’tsheusehim,too?Amad
sexscientistindecadentbedroomexperiment.Hewasabsolutelynohardshiptolookat,
andwhenhewasburiedinsideher,thepleasurewasintenseenoughtomakeherlose
hermind.Withhishelp,shecouldridherselfofthenaggingdesiretobedominatedbya
manwhenitcametosex.ThenshecouldgobacktoanormallifeandshakeoffAndrew’s
slurand,someday,moveintoanewrelationshipwithaclearhead.
“I’mnotacowardandI’mnotasubmissive.MountupandI’llproveit.”
Hetookherhand.“Youneedtofindthisout,onceandforall.”
Whatever.Bytomorrowthey’dbothknowthetruth.He’dknowhewaswrong.She
nodded.
“Weneedasafeword,”Jacksaid.
“Allright.”Shedidn’tpretendtomisunderstand.She’dreadenoughtoknowwhatit
meant.“IfIsaytheword…swamp,you’llstopeverything.”
Henodded,darkhairskimminghiswideforehead.“Yousayswamp,andwe’redone.
Butbeforeyouusetheword,becertainyou’reinactualpainbeyondyourbearing.Mild
discomfortisn’tgoodenough.Eitherphysicalormental.I’mgoingtochallengeyour
traditionalnotionsaboutsex.Iwilldareyoutogivemoreofyourselfthanyoueverhave.
There’snoplacetohidehere,Morgan.Iwanttobetotallyclear.Areyoureadyforthat?”
No.“Readytoshowyouthatyou’rewrongaboutme?Sure.”
Jackfoughtasmiletuggingathismouth.“Good.”
Withthat,hestoodandtoreoffhisshirt.Hisripplingshouldersstraightened.
Expressiondissolvedfromhisface.Anairofauthority,impenetrableandintimidating,
surroundedhim.Asfastaslightning,asforcefulasthunder.
Morganshivered,evenasshetoldherselftohangtough.
“Youknowtherules,Morgan.I’mmaster.EverythingIsayisabsolute.YoudowhatI
tellyou,whenItellyou,howItellyou.Youdon’tquestion.Yousimplydo.”
Heclutchedthevelvetropesinhishand,histhumbcaressingthesoftlengthofone.
Shetriedtoforgetthefeelingofthosesoftropesatherwristsandankles,holdingher
downtight,keepingherinplacetodowithherbodyashepleased.Eventhethought
madehergutcrampwithlust.
No,no,no.Itwasn’tsexy,just…weird.
Aghostofasmilegracedhismouthwhenhecaughtherstaringatthevelvet
bindings.“Verygood.”
Ashiverwentdownherspine,andshelookedaway.Butitwastoolate.He’dseenher
gazefixedontheropes.
Hisvoice,unusuallygravelly,rumbledashedemanded,“Takeoffyourthong.”
#
JackwatchedMorgantense,hesitate,herarmsstillwrappedaroundherknees,asshe
struggledmentallywithhiscommand.Normally,thissortoffalteringwouldbea
punishableoffense.Shewasnewtoallthis,hermindstillpushingbackfromthemastery
herbodybeggedfor.Fornow,he’dstaypatient…asmuchashecould.Butthereality
thatMorganwouldsoonbeunderhim,spreadwide,histodowithashepleased,was
drivinghimtothebrinkofcontrol.
Swallowingdownalumpofchokinglust,heregardedherwithahardexpression.
“WhenIgiveacommand,Iexpectittobefollowedimmediately.Takeoffyourthong
noworusethesafeword.”
Shebitthatlushlowerlip.Thesightmadehiscockthrobinsidehisjeans.God,he
wantedthatmouthofhersaroundhim,thosebee-stunglipsstretchedwidetotakehim,
pullhimindeep,thatlittletonguedartingoverthehead.Patience,hesteeledhimself.
“Ithought…Don’tweatleastkissorsomethingfirst?”
Damn,shewasna?ve.Shereallyhadsomuchtolearnifshewasevergoingto
successfullysubmit.Andhewasdyingtoteachhereverything.
Sometimesthatmeantplayinghardball.
“You’requestioningme,”hewarned.“IfIthoughtnowwastherighttimeforakiss,I
wouldhavedemandedone.You’rebehavinglikeapetitefille,alittlegirltooscaredto
faceherownwants.Andyou’rewastingmytime.”Jackturnedhisbackonher.
Hetookasteptowardthedoor,thenanother,andbegantowonderifthisgamblewas
abouttoexplodeinhisface.
“Wait!I’mscared.Thisisnewforme,”shesaidsoftly.“I…Idon’twanttolikeit.”
Jackturnedbacktoher.Finally,somehonesty.Thatwasastepintherightdirection.
“Whatdoyoucallmeinthebedroom?”hechallenged.
“Sir.”Thewordtrembledfromherlips,anditsearedhimlikeahotpoker,shovinga
hotslamofdesireuphiscock.
Torewardher,hemovedtohersideandcuppedhercheekinhispalm.“Youneedto
faceyourself,cher.I’mnottheenemyhere.Icanhelpyou.”
“Ijustcan’tstopthinkingthat—”
“Youknowtherules.Don’tthink.Justobey.”
Shesighed.“I’veneverbeengoodatobedience,sir.Askmymother.”
Smiling,hepromised,“I’llneveraskyoutocleanyourroomortakeoutthetrash.
Obeyingmewillbealotmorepleasurable.”
Morgansmiledbackandsenthimashakynod,innocenceandneedbothshining
fromherblueeyes.
Hisheartturnedoverinhischest.Damn,shewassobeautiful,souncertain.
Somethingabouthermadehimwanttofuckherineverywaypossibleandreassureher
ofherperfectionwhilehewasdoingit.Crazynotion…
Steppingaway,heblankedthesoftamusementfromhisfaceandcrossedhisarms
overhischest.“Onelastchance.Takeoffthethong,Morgan.”
Shepausedamereinstantbeforeshereleasedadeepbreathandeasedoffthebed,
exposingherlush,palebreasts,framedbythegoldencamisole.Hernipplesstillstood
hardandrosyfromhissucking.
Freshlustkickedhimingut,pulsedinhisballs,asshesenthimahesitantglance,
thenhookedherthumbsinthelacystripsoverherhips.Slowly,sodamnslowlyhetried
nottoholdhisbreath,shebeganpullingthethongdown,displayingmorepaleperfect
skindottedwithtiny,faintfreckles.
Thensheexposedthefieryhairguardingherpussy.Jackclenchedhisjaw.Hewas
dyingtotasteher.Shewasalreadyslick.Totallywetandready.Knowingthatwaskilling
him.
Finally,herthongmadeittothefloor.Shestraightened,castinghimanuncertain
glance,butplayedbravebythrowinghershouldersbackandholdingherheadhigh.Jack
knewfromthewayshesquirmedthatshewasfightingtheurgetocoverherbreastswith
thecamisolehangingfromhershouldersandplaceahandoverhermound.Butshe
didn’t.Hisrespectforhercourageclimbedupanotch—asdidhiseagernesstohaveher
completelyathismercy.
“Pickupthethong.”
Morganstaredathim,alittlefrowncrinklingbetweenherbrowsasshelookedforthe
logicinhisrequest.He’dbreakherofthathabiteventually.
“Don’tmakemerepeatmyself,”hewarned.
Withanexpressiontornbetweenconfusionandresignation,shebentandpickedup
thethong,thenhelditagainstherbarebreasts.Herfieryhairlaytousledacrossher
shoulders.Herredmouth,whichwoulddoAngelinaJolieproud,lookedmoist,lips
parted.Asweetflushspreadacrosshercheeks.
Jacksuckedinabreath.Damnit,shewassobeautiful.AndsowastedonBrandon
Ross.Thethoughtofshoweringherwithpleasureuntilshescreamedwasclawingathis
restraint.Hewasgettingharderbythesecond.Hehadtoretainsomecontrolhere.
Otherwise,hecouldn’tgiveherwhatsheneeded—whattheybothneeded.
“Givemethethong,cher.”
Swallowing,shereachedoutahesitanthandfullofgoldenlaceandsilk.Fearand
eagernesstopleasewarredonherface,clutchedathisheart.Hehadtobothsootheher
andpushher.Balancehisresponses.Itwastheonlywaytocoaxherintoreallylettinggo.
Jacktookthethongfromherandbuncheditinhishand.Itwasdamp.Andevensix
inchesfromhisnose,hecouldsmellherarousalonthegarment.Theknotoflustinhis
gutwrenchedsotight,hecouldhardlycatchabreath.
“You’rewet.”
Morgansaidnothing,juststaredwithwideblueeyesthecolorofaCaribbeansea,
dilatingmorewitheachsecond.
“Acknowledgemycomment,Morgan.Yesorno.”
“Yes,”shebreathed.
“Yes,what?”heprompted.
“Yes…sir.”
Itdidn’trolloffhertongueyet,butitwould.He’dkeepatheruntilitdid.Softlyand
harshly.Alternating,keepingheroffbalance.Keepingherarousedanduncertain.It
wouldbehispleasure.
“Good.Ilikethatyou’rewet.Iplantokeepyouthatwayallnight.”
Sheabsorbedhiswords,tensingslightly.Hereyesdilatedfurther.Herareolas
puckeredtightaroundthenubsofhernipples.Sheslickedhertongueoverherfull
bottomlip.Hiscockjerkedinimpatience.
“Jack—”
“Youdon’tcallmethatinthebedroom.IfIhavetoremindyouagain,I’llpaddleyour
prettyass.”
Amutinousfrownfurrowedherbrow.Herjawtensed.Shewantedtosnapsomeacid
commentbackathim.Instead,sheswallowedit.
Hekepthissmiletohimself.Shewaslearning.Slowly,butsurely…
“Yes,sir.”
“Good.Takethecamisoleoff.”
Morgancompliedalmostwithouthesitation.Almost.Notperfection,butprogress.
Thegentlechastisementthatrosetohismouthdiedassheexposedtheleanlineof
hertorso,atautbelly,gracefulshoulders,thefullcurveofherbreasts.Jackhadn’t
thoughtitpossible,buthiscockstiffenedwithafreshsurgeofblood.
“Handittome,”hedemanded.
Again,abarepausebeforeshecomplied.Satisfiedfornow,hetossedthegarmentsin
thechair.WhenheturnedbacktoMorgan,hesawhertongueswipeacrossherpillowy
mouthagain.
Damnit,thewomantestedhispatienceandself-control.Now,thisfirsttimeunder
hisdomination,hehadtotaketotalchargeofMorgan.Therecouldbenovacillation.He
couldshownoweakness,nolackofcontrol,onlyareassurancethatbrookednorefusal.
Assertinghisdominancewaskeytopersuadinghertolistentoherbody.Itwasthe
onlywayhecouldtakeherfromthatbastardBrandon.Then,afterahardfuck,afterher
completesurrender,aftersheadmittedsheneededadominantmanandlefther
backstabbingfiancé,he’dbesatisfied.
“Onyourknees,cher.”
Hergazeflewtohis,herblueeyesfilledwithaninterestingmixtureofpanicandlust.
Shewasprocessinghisrequest,tryingtodiscernwhathewanted…butsheknew.
Justasheknewshemightusethesafewordratherthantakehiminhermouth.The
thoughtchafedhim.Hewanted—needed—tofeelhertonguecaressinghiscock,herlips
stretchingwidetotakehim.Toseeherbowing,submissive,accepting,aroused.
“Sir?”
“Ididn’tgiveyoupermissiontospeak.Eitherfollowthedirectionsorusethesafe
word.”
Apinchedmouthandthedownwardslantoffire-redbrowstoldhimwithoutwords
thatshewasrebelliousandfrustrated.Buthereyes,stillsharpwithdesire,toldhimshe
wastorn.
Thatexpressionencompassedeverythinghelovedaboutlookingather,beingwith
her.Herdichotomy—aninnocent’sexperiencewithawanton’sneeds—drovehimto
dangerouslust.Aconsumingdesirehecouldn’tremembereverfeelingbefore.Thiswent
beyondthepsychologicalhighofcontrolling,beyondthepurephysicaleaseofa
woman’sbody.Inthismoment,hewantedtoownher,insideandout,ruleherbodyand
seizehersoul.
Suddenly,Jackwonderedifhe’dbeabletofuckMorganenoughtogetheroutofhis
systembeforehelethergo.
Finally,shecasthergazedown—anddroppedslowlytoherknees.
Shewassoclose,Jackcouldfeelherexhalationsonhisjeans-coveredcock.Ittook
everyounceofself-controlnottoripathispantsandtossthemaway,sohecouldfeelher
breath,hermouth,onhim.Lustthrobbedevenharderthroughhiserectionatthe
thought.
“Better.Asareward,youmayspeak.Whatisit,Morgan?”
“Idon’tknowmuchaboutoralsex.”
“Howdoyouknowthat’swhatIwant?”
“Iassumed.Ifthatiswhatyouwant,Ithinkyoushouldknow,theonetimeIdidit,
hedidn’t…”
“Comeinyourmouth?”
Afreshflushstoleuphercheeks.“No.”
TheinformationblastedJackinthegutlikeaprizefighter’spunch.Soeven
straightlacedBrandonhadn’tavailedhimselfofthisbeauty’ssin-inspiringmouth.He
knewfromthismorning’sencounteragainstthedoorthattheideaexcitedher.He
wantedMorgantoexperienceactsthatarousedher.Butthenotionofbeingthefirstman
tofillhertonguewithhisseedmadehisballsdrawupeventighter,thelustcrashing
throughhimevenmoreurgent.Itwasprimitiveandpossessiveandillogical,but
somethinginhimrespondedviolentlytotheknowledgethatnoothermanhadever
takenherinsuchaway.
AglancedowntoldhimthatMorganwasn’trepulsedbyhisdemand,butuncertain
Heranxietymadeherlapiseyesstandoutinherpaleface.Shechewedherbottomlip
nervously.
“Myresponsibilityindominatingisnotjusttoorderyouaround.It’stopleasureyou.
Toguideyou.Itstartswithtrust.Youmustplaceyoursinme,cher.Iwillseeyou
through,providewhateveryouneed.Doyouunderstand?”
Morgan’sgazelefthisface,traveleddownhistorso,thenrestedontheinsistent
erectionpushingagainsthisjeans,rightinfrontofherface.Hertonguepeekedoutto
smoothoverherbottomlipagain.
Jackdrewinasharpbreath,reelingbackthethoughtsthat,soon,herprettypink
tonguecouldbelavingtheheadofhiscock.Lusttwistedhisgut,turningitinto
unbreakableknotsofneed.Merde!Hewastestingherasmuchashewastorturing
himself.
“Yes…sir.”
Hebarelymanagedtomumbleareplybeforeheunsnappedhisjeansandeased
downthezipper.Hiscocksprangfree,intohishand.Heslowlystrokedthelengthofit
forhergaze.Morganzeroedinonhishardflesh,herexpressionuncertainandhot.She
wantedtotouchhim;herface,likeakidwithherfacepressedagainstacandystore
window,toldhimthat.Fistinghiscock,hewaited,watchinghergreedyeyesfollowhis
hand.
Whenadropofmoisturebeadedontheheadofhiscockandshelickedherlipsatthe
sight,Jackeasedhisfreehandaroundherhead,anchoringitunderherhair.Thesoft
strandsfelloverhisfingerslikesilkashecuppedhernape.Hethumbedthesoftskinat
thesideofherjawandslowlyurgedherforward.
“Suckme,Morgan.Takemedeep.”
Closer,closer,hermouthcametohiscock.Hergazeflewuptohis,connecting,
lockingwithhisownassheedgedin.Jackheldhisbreath.God,hecouldn’tlookaway
fromher,couldn’tstopwatchingthosesensualredlipsparttotakehiminside.Felta
fuckingfeverragethroughhimasheimaginedhowhotandsilkyhermouthwouldbe.
Finally,sheenvelopedtheswollenhead,stillseepingmoisture.Hergazenever
waveredasherlipsclosedaroundhimandhertonguesweptacrosshissensitive
underside,sendingablindingjoltofpleasurescreaminguphisspine.Hegrittedhis
teethtocapturethemoanthreateningtospill.
Shestilled,pulledbackafraction.Heallowedit,buttightenedhishandatthebackof
herneckinwarning.Thatprettypinktonguelavedtheheadofhiscock,thenwethersoft
lipsagain.Hewatcheditall,scorchedbythesight,byherhotgazedrillingintohim,
innocenceandwonderandthedesiretoexperienceeverythingfinallyovershadowingher
fearanddoubt.
Atthesight,ittookeverybitofJack’scontrolnottostartpumpingwildlyintoher
mouth.Hedrewinasharpbreath.
“Deeper,cher.Allthewaytoyourthroat.”
Shenodded,herheadbobbing,hertonguestrokingtheblood-engorgedtipofhis
cock.Morganopenedwider,leanedin.Thehot,slickheavenofhermouthenclosedhalf
hislength,cradledbyherexploringtongue.Hehissed.Sheshookherhead,goingdown,
tryingtotakemore.
Thefeelofherallaroundhim,thesightofhertryingtofillhermouthwithhisflesh,
combinedtopushhimdangerouslyclosetotheedge.Hisfingersagaintightenedather
neckashepushedanotherinchofhiscockintothesweetdepthsofhermouth.
Morganpulledbackafraction,thenslidherlipsevenfartherdownhislength—nearly
tothebackofherthroat.Shepunctuatedthemotionwithamoan.Thesoundvibrated
insidehim.Pleasurestreameduphisdick,wrappedaroundhisballslikeavise.It
doubledwhensheraisedherhandtohisdanglingtesticlesandcuppedthemwithgentle
fingers.
Damn,shehadgoodinstincts.
Hetensed,againfightingtheurgetounleashhislust,tofuckhermouthina
mindlesspursuitofpleasure,letgoofthecomeboilinginhisscrotum.Herslow
explorationwaskillinghim,breakinghimdown.Histoescurledagainstthehardwood
floor.Howthehellcouldhestayincontrolwiththoseswollenlipsandtightmouth
slowlysuckingouthissanity?
Theheadofhiscockfinallybumpedthebackofherthroat,addinganewdimension
tohispleasure.Unabletostophimself,heclosedhiseyesandgroaned,anadmissionof
hisneed.
“That’sit,cher.That’sright.Suckmedeep.”
Openinghiseyesagain,JackfoundMorganbowedoverhiscock,eyesclosed.Shewas
damnnearreverent,thewaysheheldhim,tookhimsofarinside.Thensheeasedback
withaleisurelyswipeofhertongue.Slow.Sodamnslow,he’dlosehismind,hiscontrol,
beforeshefastenedhermoutharoundhislengthagain.
Andhewasleaking,fluidsescapinghisbodyinadesperaterushtoorgasm.Every
muscleinhisbodytensenow,trembling,heshovedbothhandsintoherhairand
demandedmore.
“Faster.Putthatsweettongueonme.Thereyougo…”
Withhisprompting,Morganestablishedamorerapidrhythm,butstillslowenough
thathesworehecouldfeeleverygrooveandbumponhertongue.Stillslowenoughto
completelyrobhimofhisabilitytothink,torememberhisowndamnname.
Notfuckinghermouthwasnolongeranoption.Hishandsfistedinherhair.He
thrustpastherwide,sleeklips,bumpingthebackofherthroateachtime.
“Swallow,”hedemanded,voicebroken.“WhenI’matthebackofyourthroat,
swallowonme.”
Amazingly,shedid.Everytimehesankdeep.Perfectrhythm,asifshewasafucking
pro.Nothinghadeverfeltthisamazing.
Hell,thewomanwasgoingtoshatterhimwiththisorgasm.
Sweatbrokeoutathistemples,acrosshisback,ashetriedtoresistthegrowing
pressureinhisballs.Hecouldn’tdenythepleasureforlong.Thewavebuiltintoadark,
sharpache,demandinghegivein.Hehelditback,grittinghisteetheverytimehercandy
tonguedancedovertheflaredpurplehead,everytimeherflushedcheekshollowedas
shesuckedhimin.
Jackwantedtostoptheroaringrushtowardthecliff,liveinthishoney-thickthroba
bitlonger.Hewithdrewfromhermouth,fightingtogetabreathwithoutherscentonit,
needingamomentthatwasn’ttotallybombardedwiththesilkofhertonguebathinghis
cock.
Whenhelefthermouthwithasoftpop,shewhimpered.Lickedherlips.Turnedahot
gazeuptohimthatpleadedanddared.
“Please,sir…”Shefixedherhungrystareonhiscock,mouthopenwide.
Hetookhiserectioninhishand,swipedathumbovertheweepinghead,thenpushed
thewetdigitintoherwaitingmouth.
“Youwantmoreofthat?”
Herbreathcamehardandsheswipedthemoisturefromthepadofhisthumb.Her
eyesstoodwideinherrosy-cheekedface.“Yes,sir.”
“Tellmewhatyouwant.”
“Iwanttosuckyou,sir.”
“Whatpartofme?”hebarked,stilltorturingthembothwithlongstrokesofhishand
upanddownhislength.
Herhungrylittlegazewasabouttoeathimalive.
“Your…cock,sir.Letmesuckit.”
“Youhaven’tfollowedmyinstructionsparticularlywellsofar.”
“Iwill,sir.”
“I’llholdyoutothat,Morgan.”Heanchoredhishandathernapeagain.“Nowsuck
me.”
L’aidedecielme,hethoughtashegaveintotheurgetothrustintoMorgan’smouth
againwithaloudmoanthatshouldhaveshakenthecottage’srafters.Heavenhelpme.
Again,hecouldn’tresisttheurgetofuckhermouth.Hisdeep,insistentrhythmfilled
her,demandingshetakeandtake.Hewatchedher,lipsswollen,cheeksrosy,eyeshalf-
closedasifsavoringhim.Hernippleswereharderthanever.Thesightofherburned
intohisbrain,shreddedhiscontrol.
Hestiffenedagain,thepressureinhisballsnearlypainfulasheheldinhisbreath
andheldbackhisclimax.Delayingtheearth-shatteringinevitable.
Morgan’seyesopened,gazeliftingtohim,askingandseducingatonce.Shewanted
reassurance,sweetlybeggedhimtoletgo,temptedhimwiththepromiseofecstasylike
he’dneverknown.
Withthatlook,hiscontrolbroke.Thepeakofraptureracedfromthebaseofhis
spine,burnedthroughhisballs,uphiscock,untilheexploded.Pleasurerippedhername
fromhislipsinahoarsecry.Itbecameachantasherepeateditoverandoverwhilethe
sharpedgeofblissseemedtolastforever,poundinghisbodywithonerelentlesspulse
ofecstasyafteranother.
Faintly,throughthehazeofhisroaringheartbeat,heheardMorgangurgling.
“Swallow,”herasped,rubbingoneofhishandsalongherneck.“Swallow,cher.”
Sweetlysubmissivenow—forthemoment—shedid.ButJackdidn’tkidhimself.That
smilebreakingoutacrossMorgan’sfacetoldhimherrushofexcitementatbreakinghim
down,strippinghimofhisirondefenses.
Hepulledawayfromthesweetdepthsofhermouthandshuckedhispants
completely.Satiationlazedthroughhim,andcontrolreasserteditself.Now,hecould
mowdownherbarricadesandreturnthefavor.Now,hecouldcapturehersurrender,
striphersoul,andmakesurethathavingsexwithBrandonRosswouldneverbeonher
wishlistagain.
#
Stillpanting,tiredyetflying,MorganstaredatJackassherosetoherfeet.Hetossed
hispantsasideandturnedbacktoherwithburningeyes.Theshortmilitarycutofhis
haironlyaccentuatedhisangularface,hisstrongjawdustedwithadarkfiveo’clock
shadow,hiscleftchin.Thegorgeoussightsdidn’tstopthere.
Shelethergazewanderdownthepowerfulbulkofhisshoulders,thesolidbulgesof
hispectorals,thetightabsthatshowedthedelineationofeverymuscle…andmadea
treasuretraildowntohisgroin.
Evensoft,hispeniswasbig.Whenhard…he’dputmostmentoshame.
Andshehadconqueredhim.Big,badJackhadtotallysuccumbedtoher.Wasthat
senseofbeingmightyandcompellingthereasonhelikedtodominate?
Morganlickedherlips,highonpower.Despiteapersonalfirst,shewasn’tpausingto
examine.Wouldn’taskifitwasrightorwrong—plentyoftimeforthatlater.Now…
Shesenthimakittenishsmile.She’dsurvivedhischallengetosubmitwithnarya
scratch.Ithadn’tfeltlikebeingamindlessblow-updollandtakingorders;ithadbeen
morelikefollowinghiscluesuntilshelearnedexactlyhowtoseizecontrolandunravel
him.
“Youlookhappywithyourself.”
Morgantriedtowipeawaythesmile,butshejustcouldn’tsuppressit.Shedidn’t
wanttogloat;thatwouldonlyspurhimon.Instead,shejustshrugged.
“You’rethinkingthisisagame,Morgan.Thatyouwon,andIlost,andwecancallita
night.Youthinkwe’redoneandcanforgetthefearthatyoumightenjoysubmittingto
me.”
Hissoftlaughgaveherthefirstcluethatshe’dmisjudgedthesituation.Hersmile
faltered.
“Cher,we’rejuststarting.Ipromise,you’llgivemecompletecontrolbeforewe’re
done.”
Hiswhisperstruckdowntohergut,reawakeninguncertainty.Theyweren’tdone?
Everyotherguyshe’dbeenwith…well,asAndrewputit,afterhecameonce,heneeded
eighthoursofsleepandabowlofWheatiesbeforehewasreadytogoagain.He’dcalled
himselfasprinter.DidthatmeanJackwaslikeamarathonrunner?
Thethoughtstruckanuncomfortablechordoflustinherbelly.
“Kneelonthebed.”Hisvoicestartledfromherruminations.
“Wh—why?”
Anyhintofpostorgasmsoftnessorrelaxationinhisexpressionvanished.“BecauseI
said.Idominate,yousubmit.Ifyouaskmeonemorequestionorhesitateagain,Iwill
paddleyourass.”
Tick-tock,tick-tock.Suddenly,Morgancouldheareachimpatientsecondbetween
themlapseby.SheglancedbetweentherumpledbedandJack,whoseevenbreathsand
steadygazetoldherhewascompletelyserious.
Shedidn’twantthis;shedidn’t.Buttheachebetweenherlegshadbecomeathrob.
Thesaltytasteofhimstilllingeredonhertongue,tauntingher.Rememberedpleasure
fromtheirfeveredencounteragainstthedoorearlierbombardedherbrain.Shewanted
thatfeelingagain,ofbeingtaken,ofexperiencinganorgasmalmostbiggerthanher
body.
Worse,therewassomethingaboutJackhimself.Hiscommandingpresence,
alternatingwithhisteasingsmiles.Hereassuredherintheoddestway.Shefelt
protected,whichmadesense.He’dhelpedherescapeashooter.Thefactthatheoften
seemedabletoreadhermind,asifheunderstoodher,didn’tfit.Hewastryingtocast
herasasubmissive.Andshewasn’t.
Jack’shandscurledintofists,thenrelaxed.“Morgan…”
Hetookamenacingsteptowardher,shadowsofareprimandburninginhiseyes.
Intheend,herdesirerippedthechoicefromher.Shewouldsubmit.Justfortonight.
Justasanexperiment.Oncecouldn’thurt,right?
Shescrambledontothebedandknelt,facinghim.
“Turnaround.Facetheheadboard.”
Inotherwords,turnherbacktohim.Knowingsheonlyhadsecondstodecide,
Morganscrambledthroughherthoughts.Whatwouldhedo?Hewouldn’thurther.Jack
hadprotectedherwhenhersickohadstartedshooting.He’dmanagedtosneakherout
ofLafayetteinonepiece,but—
“Mypatienceiswearingthin,”hebarked.“Turnaround.”
Thedemandinggrowlstartledher.Hemeantit.Now.
Withalastlingeringglanceathim,onesheknewheldallheruncertaintyandanxiety,
Morgancomplied.
“Sitbackonyourheels.”Hisvoicedriftedcloser,punctuatedbythemilitaryprecision
ofhisfootstepsonthehardwoodfloor.
ThesternnoteinJack’svoicewassomethingMorgancouldn’toverlook.Shedidn’t
dareignorehimorhesitate.
Onceshe’dsatbackonherheels,Jacktrailedagentlefingertipovertheslopeofone
shoulder,asifpettingherinreward.Shegasped.Thefeatherytouchstartled—and
enflamed.Alineoffireblazedbehindthatsimplecaress.
Thenheflattenedhispalmbetweenhershoulderblades.“Leandownuntilyou’re
lyingwithyourbreastsoveryourknees.Armsaboveyourhead,palmsflatonthebed.”
Morganprocessedhisrequest,racingtopictureit.Child’spose,ifshe’dbeendoing
yoga.Itwasonesheassumednearlyeverytimesheattendedaclass.Butdoingitnow
meantleavingherassandthelineofherspinecompletelyvulnerabletoJack.
Hisfingersbetweenhershoulderbladesbeganassertingpressure,gentlybut
inexorablypushingherforward.
Finally,shewentwithit.ShecouldalwaysgetoutofitifJackpushedhertoofar.She
hadasafeword.
Withhercheekrestingonthesoftsheet,herarmsstretchedoverherhead,whileher
legsremainedtuckedbeneathher,Jackremovedhishandfromherback.Shewatchedas
hewalkedinmeasuredfootstepstotheheadofthebed.
Herabdomencrampedwiththeunknownandhertotalfearofit.Whatwashedoing?
Planning?
“Sir…?”
“Morgan,we’vecoveredthis.Youdon’tspeakunlessyou’regivenpermission.”
“Ijustwanttoknowwhatyou’regoingtodo.”
Theairintheroomseemedtostop.Shesensedhisstillness,thewhiplashof
displeasurethatburstthroughhim.Knowingshe’ddisappointedhimincitedatart,
unwelcomesensation.Morgan’sabdomenchurnedagain.Talkingwithoutpermission
wasano-no,aswasaskingquestions.Shewasn’tsurewhy,butsheknewwithoutadoubt
thatshe’dgonebeyondafauxpas.
Suddenly,hespurredintoaction,grabbingherleftwristwithonehand.Within
moments,avelvetropewrappedaroundher.Apull,anothertug,andayanklater,he
steppedaway.Discreetly,Morgantriedtopullatherwrist.
Itwassecurelybound.
Beforeshecoulddomorethanbegintoreelwiththeimplicationsofthat,Jackmade
hiswaytotheothersideofthebed,capturedherrightwrist,andrepeatedtheprocess.
Bothofherarmswereimmobilized,tightlybutnotuncomfortablytetheredtothe
postsoftheheadboard.Shegaveagentletug,thenanot-so-gentleone.Nothing.The
bondsdidn’tgivesomuchasaninch.HemusthavebeenonehellofaBoyScout,since
thoseknotswereperfect.
Panicrushedherlikeawavefromatsunami.Oh,no.Shewasinoverherhead.Way
over.Jackwas…more.Moreman,moredisciplinedresolve,moreironcontrolthanshe
wasreadyfor.
Shestruggled,pullingatherbondswithafrightenedwhimper.God,whathadshe
beenthinking?Itwasonethingtofantasizeaboutgivingamanuttercontrolofherbody.
Itwasanothercompletelytoactuallydoit,evenifshedidtrusthimwithherphysical
safety.Howwelldidsheactuallyknowhim?
Butherbondsweren’tbudging.
Whenshecriedoutagain,Jackgentledherwithasofttouch,curlinghispalmaround
thebackofherhead.
“Morgan,takeadeepbreath.”Hewaiteduntilshedid,thenwhisperedinaquiet,
hypnoticvoice.“You’resafe.You’refine.I’vegotyou.”
Thecalminhisvoicereacheddeepinsideher.Histoneaskedhertobereasonable,
nottopanic.Forareasonherlogicalmindcouldnotfathom,thatsoothedher.She
heededhisvoiceandstilled.
Inreward,hesmoothedhispalmdowntheexposedlengthofherback.“Submission
isabouttrust,Morgan.Youtrustingmenotonlytokeepyousafe,buttogiveyou
everythingyouwant,everypleasureyouimagine.Icangrantyouthosethings,butnot
withoutyourhelp.Thepleasurecomes,inpart,fromgivinguptotalcontrol.”
Suddenly,thecaressatthesmallofherbackwasgone.Momentslater,hereplacedit
withasharpthwackonherass.
Startledbyhisaction,Morganbuckedagainstherbonds.“Ouch!Stopit.”
Nosoonerwerethewordsoutofhermouththanapeculiarstingingbegantoprickle
herskin.Itcreatedafirethatlingeredwherehe’dspankedher.
“You’renotincontrol,Morgan.YourbodyisminetopleasureorpunishasIseefit.
Rightnow,you’vemorethanearnedapunishment.”
She’dbarelyrecoveredfromhersurprisewhenhespankedheragain,thistime
hittingtheothercheekwithanequalamountofforce.Morganbitherlipastheinitial
stingassailedher.Then,asbefore,thenipofpaingavewaytotheunexpectedheatthat
spreadacrossherass.
“Therearesurprises.That’sintended.Iwilldothingsyoudon’talwaysunderstandor
thinkyouwant.Oragreewith.What’simportantisthatyoutrustthatIknowyourbody
andyourlimits,andthatyoucomply.Becauseyouhavetrustinme,inmyabilitytoget
pastyourmentalbarrierstogiveyouthepleasureyourbodycraves.”
Hesmackedheragain,ahealthyslapforeachcheek.
Morgangasped.“Gotohell.”
TherumbleofJack’slaughtersoundedbehindher.“You’rejustdiggingyourselfa
deeperhole,cher.”
Hesmoothedacallousedpalmoverthetinglingfleshofherass.Theheatofhisskin
seepedin,mixingwiththeburnonherbottom,tocreateafirethatnearlyhadher
moaning.Howcouldshelikeit?Whyshouldshe?Itmadenosense.
“Youcan’texperiencewhatyouwantuntilyoulearntogiveyourselfovertome.
Completely,”hewhisperedinherear.
Mentally,sherailedagainsthiswords,evenassherealizedhervaginawascompletely
wet.
No,no,no!Hewasspankingherlikeawaywardchild.Shedidn’tlikeit.Really.
Butthepain…itwasbecomingpleasure,thickandthrobbingandimpossibleto
ignore.
Morganshifted,tryingtoavoidhishand.Nosuchluck.Twomoresmacks,onefor
eachcheek,bothwithmorevigorthantheothers.Shemanagedasnarlofoutrage,but
thatdidn’tstopthespreadoffirefromburstingacrossherskin.
Throbbingheat.Bone-deepwant.OhmyGod…Herfleshbegantoache.Morganfelt
blooddancingjustunderherskin,engorgingherclit.
Fightingwasuseless.
“Doyouunderstand?”
Thatvoice,likeasexualdrillinstructor.Everywordwaswrappedinsteel,butbeneath
that,sheheardthetauntingpromiseofwhatcouldbe,thevelvetpromiseofecstasy.
Freshheatcrawledacrossherflesh,swelledherclit,strangledherprotests.Herbody
demandedmore.
“Yes,sir.”
“Muchbetter,”hepraised.
OnlythendidMorganrealizeshewasactuallyliftingherasstohishand,anticipating
thenextblow.Shebecamehyperawareofheremptysexandclawedatthesheet,aching
forhimtofillit.
Thethrillofsensationtookoverthen.Shiverschasedoneanotherdownherspine.
Herentirebodyfelthot,agitated.She’dbeeninflamedbythefeelandscentofJackwhen
she’dtakenhiminhermouth,butthisposition,hisgentlypunishingtouchmadeher
awareofthefactthatshewasawomanandunderhiscontrol.Awarethatshewasina
positionthatbaredthemostsecretpartsofherbodytohim,andtieddownasshewas,
hecouldtouchher—ornot—atanytimehechose.
Ascary,headyrealization—onethatgavehermorepleasurethanpushinghimtolose
controlwithherhad.
Heglidedtheflatofhispalmdownherback.Morgancurledherspinelikeacat,
seekingthetinglingheatinhistouch.
Immediately,heremovedhishand.“YoustaystillunlessIsayotherwise.”
Histonemadeitclearheexpectedareply.
“Yes,sir.”
“Excellent.”
No,itwasn’t.Morgancouldfeelherbodytemperaturerising,herthoughtsbeginning
toslideinathickmorasstoalustchokedswirl.Rightandwrongwereslowlybeing
replacedwithpleasureandpain,withtheneedtoachieveorgasm.Andoddly,with
pleasingJack.
Heturnedandwalkedoutthedoor.Morganglancedoverhershoulderandwatched
himleave,histaut,bareassincitingafreshsparkofneed,evenashisdisappearance
incitedfear.Wherewashegoing?Hecouldn’tjustleaveherherelikethis!Howlongdid
heexpecthertoremaininthisposition,waiting?
Morganturnedherheadandstartedwatchingtheclockonthebedsidetable.Itticked
awayinthesilence.Theonlyothersoundsheheardwasherownheartbeat.
Fiveminutesslidby.Thenanotherfive.Herlegsbegantoturnnumb.Shenoticedthe
slightchillintheroomhisabsenceallowed.Butsomethingtoldhernottomove
Somethingtoldherthiswasatest.
Shedidn’tintendtofail.
Afteranothereightminutes,hereturnedwithasmallishblackboxinhandandan
erectionthatleftherwithnodoubtofhisabilitytoperformagain.Withoutaword,heset
theboxonthebedsidetable,thenglancedather.
“You’restillinposition.Good.Verygood.”
Hetrailedalightfingerfromthesmallofherbackdown…downbetweenthecheeks
ofherass.Shestiffened,gasped,triedtotightenagainsthim.Hehesitated,butwhenshe
madenofurtherprotest,hecontinuedhisquestdowntohersex.
Thenhewasthere,hisfingertipsglidingovertheslickfleshpoutingintohishand.
Backandforth,allaroundtheouterfolds,spreadinghermoistureinacareless,
unhurriedpattern.
Hewastoyingwithher.Justtoying!Butshewastooarousedforanger.Morganthrust
herhipsbackathishand.Dosomething!herbodyscreamedsilently.
Hemerelyusedhisotherhandtosmackherassagain.
“Staystill,”hedemanded.
Hewrappedhisfingersaroundherhiptostoptheprovocativewriggleofherhips.
Shetensed,tryingsohardtodoashecommanded.Hermusclestrembledwitheffortas
pleasurestreakedunmercifullyinsideher.
“Yoursweetpussyiswet,Morgan.Evenmorewetthanthismorning.Andswollen.
Youthinkyou’rereadytobefucked?”
Squeezinghereyesshut,Morgantriedtoholdheranswerin.Ifshesaidyes,hewould
onlytormenther.Ifsheno,hewouldtormentherevenmore.Butpretending
indifferencetothemagicalmasteryofhisfingerstrailingthroughherjuices,betweenher
sensitivefolds,justwasn’tpossible.
“Yes,sir,”shefinallycroakedout.
Sheachedeverywhere.Theneedbeatather.Everythingbetweenherkneesandher
navelscreamedforhismouth,hiscock.Anything!Sheneededhimtodosomething
Jackmerelykeptplaying.
“There’stoomuchfightinyou.Whenyoucompletelysubmit…thenwe’llsee.”
Oh,shewantedtoarguethatone.Thiswasasdamnsubmissiveasshewasgoingto
get.Hecouldeitheracceptwhatshewaswillingtogiveorgojumpoffa—
OhmyGod!
Apairofhisfingersslicedthroughhermoisture,throughherslickfolds—and
plungedinside.Aturnofhiswrist,aflickofhisfingers…HefoundherG-spotand
beganafirmbutleisurelycaress.
Almostimmediately,thepleasureclampedaroundherthighs,piercedherclit,darted
upherpassage.Everythinginsideherbodycamealiveashecontinuedanunmerciful
pressonthatoh-so-sensitivespot.
Shemoaned,long,loud,thenthrustherhipsbackathimininvitationoncemore.He
declined,neitherinvadingfarthernorrubbingfaster.Hesimplystayedthecourse.
BloodbegantoroarinMorgan’sears.Shebecameawareofherheartbeatvibrating
insideher.Herclitthrobbedintimewiththerhythm.Perspirationbrokeoutbetween
herachingbreasts,athertemplesandnape,betweenherrigidthighs.
Higher,higherthemanwasdrivingher.AndGod,shewasalmostthere,almostto
theedgeofthecliff.Thiswasgoingtobeafree-fallfromunknownheights.Herbody
tensed,preparing.Shepanted,wailed,wantingitmorethananything…
Suddenly,hewithdrew.
“Ididn’tgiveyoupermissiontocome.”
“What?”Shecouldbarelycatchabreath.
“Youdon’tcomeuntilItellyouto.Completecontrol,cher.”
Hedisappearedaroundtheothersideofthebedforamomentandgrabbedtheblack
box.Whatthehellwashedoing?Shewasdyinghere,dissolvingintoapuddleofneed,
andhewasdiggingintoadamnbox?
Shemoaned,achingfrustrationwrackingherbodyinshivers.Fine,ifhewasn’tgoing
tohelpher,she’dhelpherself.
Morgantriedtowigglebackandforthtoproduceenoughfrictiononherclittosend
herovertheedge.Momentslater,Jackstilledherwithasharpslaptoherass.Thenhe
anchoredthatpalmonherhip,makingitnearlyimpossibletomoveunderthepressure
ofhisgrip.
“Badgirl.You’llcomewhenIsayso,undermyhand,aroundmycock.Notbecause
youwiggledyourassforit.”
Withthatcomment,Jackclimbedontothebedbehindher.Heplungedhisfingers
backintoher.Butratherthatrubbingatthatsweetspotinsideher,hemerelymoved
about,dousinghisfingers.
“Spreadyourknees,”hedemanded,fittinghisfreehandbetweenthem,urgingher
thighsapart.
Morgancomplied,breathless,mindless,soreadytofallintotheswampofdesire
poundingather.
Jackremovedhisfingersfromherpassage,gaveherclitabreath-stealingflick.She
stilled,thoughtschasing.Whatwouldhappennext?Whatwouldhe—
Atouchlater,wheresheleastexpectedit,heansweredherquestion.
BeforeMorgancouldevenprotest,oneofhisfingers,slickwithherownjuices,
penetratedherass,pushingpastthetightringofmuscle.Tinglesformedashocking
circleofpleasurearoundtheinvasion.Shegasped.
“No…”shebreathed.
“Yes,”heasserted.“Youhaveabeautifulass.I’mnotgoingtoignoreit.”
Heinvadedheranuswithasecondfinger.Burningpressure.Somethingsoforeign
andforbidden.Thepleasurezoomedskyhigh.Morgangasped,thenbitherlip.How
couldshelikesuchathing?
Yet,suddenly,itwasimpossiblenottocravemore.“That’sit,cher.Pushbackonto
myfingers.I’mgoingtoopenyouupandfuckyouheresoon.”
ThenJackburnedawayanythingshemighthavesaidandsentherclosertotheedge,
plunginghisfingersintoherbodywithahypnotizingrhythm.In,out,in,out…
Thesensationsweresonew,sounexpected.He’dawakenedsomanypartsofherand
theyallscreamedwithneednow.Hernipplesweretautnubsthatrubbedagainstthe
sheetswitheachpenetration.Herclitpulsedwithherheartbeat.Herwetsexstilldanced
fromhistouch.
Andnowhisfingersdroveherslowlymindless,awakeningthesensesinapartofher
bodyshe’donlyconsiderederoticinhermostforbiddenmidnightfantasies.
Thenthepleasurewastoostrongforthought.Shecouldonlymovewithhistouch,
archingtomeethisfingers,mewlattheshockofsensation,thethrill.Herentirebody
wastightening,focusedonreachingthepinnaclethatgrewandswelled,toweringabove
her,engulfingher.
Jackwithdrewhisfingersfromherass.Morganwhimperedinprotestbeforeshe
couldstopherself,beforeshecouldeventhinkaboutwhatshewasdoing.
“I’mnotdone,cher,”hesoothed.
Apopandasquishysoundlater,Morganfeltsomethingnew,slightlycoldand
definitelyforeign,probingagainatherbackentrance.Avibrator.ItshookasJackteased
asmallcirclearoundhersensitiveopening.
Herpleasurewassofocusedthere,sosharp,thatMorgancouldn’timagineanything
overtakingit.Especiallywhenhepushedthevibratorinafraction.
“Pushdown,”hecommandedsoftly.
Entranced,Morgandid.Thevibratingprobequicklywarmedinherbody.Shecried
outinasoundofpurepleasureatthewickeddesireitcreated.Thevibewasaboutthe
samesizeashisfingers,butsosmoothasheeaseditinandoutofherbody.Shearched
toit,wantingmore,feverishwithlust.Shecriedout,graspingthesheetinherfists.
Jackmoveddirectlybehindher,coveringherbackwithhisbodyashewhisperedin
herear,“Youlooksosexywithmyvibepleasuringyourass.Amancouldlosecontrol
justlookingatyou.”
MorganlookedbackoverhershoulderatJack.Hekneltbehindher,hischocolate
eyesscorchingheralreadyoverheatedskin,hisshoulderswideandbulgingashe
grippedherhipswithlargehands.Thebreathseesawedoutofhiswide,muscledchest,
nowslickwithsweat.
Helookedlikeamanhangingontohiscontrolbyathread.
Shehadnotimetorejoicewhenhethrustintohersex,allthewaytothehiltinone
sizzlingstroke.Morgangaspedatthefeelofhimfillinghercompletely,herpassage
madesmallerbythevibeinherassdrivingheroutofhermind.Shefeltfull,packed.The
doublepenetrationmadeherclawatthesheetsagain,grabthemindesperatefists.
“Jack!”
“Yes,cher.You’relikeheaven,”hegroanedashethrustinsideher.“Fuckingwhipped
creamandcinnamon-spicedperfection.”
Hisrhythmquicklyescalatedtosomethingfastandfocused.Thefrictionand
vibrationshadtinglesscreaminginsidehertenderopenings.Shefeltherbloodrushing
south,floodinghersex,herass.Morganpanted,screamedasthepleasureexpanded
fasterthanshecouldassimilate.Herknucklesturnedwhiteasshefistedthebedding.
Dangerousneedthreatenedtoswallowher,stealhersanity,andneverreturnit.
Jackwasrelentless.Theclimbtothepeakcamefast.Herteethdugintoherlipuntil
shetastedblood.Butnothingcouldholdthepleasurein.
Hercriesbecameear-splittingshouts.Morgancouldfeelherselftighteningaround
hiscock,grippingasifshewouldneverlethimgo,ripplingwiththeimpendingstorm.
Hecontinuedthesmoothrhythm,fuckingthroughtheclampofhersexwithcontroland
power.
Withbothpassagespenetrated,Morgan’sfantasiesburstfreeinhermind.Theone
shedeniedhavinginthecoldlightofdayfloodedher,theimagehauntingher.Twomen,
eachfillingher,workingtogethertooverwhelmher,ownher,fuckheruntil—
“Come,Morgan.Comenow!”heshoutedhoarsely.
Sheletoutarawscreamoutasorgasmblastedthroughher.Herbodyshudderedas
shegrippedhim,milkedhim.Andthepleasure…Itspiraledbeyondanythingshe’dever
known,annihilatingthoughtorcontrol,theabilitytospeak.Allsheknewwasthe
devastatingecstasythatmadeblackspotsdanceinhervision,madeherbodytaut,
weightless,asJackhurtledherintothekindofecstasyshehadonlyimagined.
Hishuskycryechoedhersashecameinafeveredrush.
Theycollapsedtogetherontothebed.Hedislodgedthevibebutkepthimselfburied
deepinsideher,slowlystrokingherskin,asifhewantedtopossessherbeyondthe
orgasm.Asifhefoundhernotonlyacceptable,butwonderful.
AsJackcurledaroundher,hispantingbreathsfallingonhershoulder,Morgan’s
body—worse,herheart—leaptinjoyatthoseheadythoughts.
CHAPTEREIGHT
Eyesclosed,Morganrolledoverandstretchedinthewarm,rumpledsheets.Her
musclesfeltdeliciouslyheavyandrelaxed,ifatadsoreinsomeunusualplaces.Butwow,
suchhard,dreamlessslumberhadrejuvenatedher.Shecouldn’trememberthelasttime
shefeltthisrested.Smiling,despiteherlingeringdrowsiness,shedrewinadeepbreath.
Thescentsofleather,malemusk,midnight,swamp,andsexbombardedher.
ScentsthatbelongedtoJack.
Theeventsofthepreviousnightrushedback.Everybitofit.Insudden,excruciating
detail.Gasping,Morgansatstraightupinbed,gatheringthesheetinherfists
Everythingshe’ddone…Notjustdone—reveledin.Lustboomedinhergutandher
vaginaclenchedinfreshhungerasmemoriesbesiegedherinvividcolor.
Hermindshookwithamixofshockanddisbelief.Dismaywasn’tfarbehind.
Andshewasstillnaked.She,whoneversleptbare,stilllayinthebedofthemanwho
instigatedherdownfallintothemostforbiddensinandfoundawaytomakeherpantfor
it.Andnow,shelaidinhisbedlikeshewaswaitingforhimtodoitallagain
Frowning,Morganrememberedhimsleepingbesideherlastnight.No,notbeside
her;tangledwithher.Hissolidwarmthcurledaroundherback,hishandsplayedover
herabdomen.Thesteadyrhythmofhishardmalebreathinghaddriftedintoherear.
Shehadn’tsleptwellinweeks,notsincetheproblemswithherstalkerhadstartedin
earnest.Butevenwhenshefeltsafeinherrelativelysecureapartment,sheneverslept
thatdeeply.NexttoJack,she’dfeltcherished,protected—totallyabletofallintothe
blackchasmofslumber.
She’dalsofeltclaimed,especiallywhenheawakenedherdeepinthenight.He’d
positionedherflatonherbackandfittedhishipsbetweenherwidespreadthighs,
gaspingatthesilkenthrustofhiscockintoherswollensex.
Despitebeinghalf-asleep,theeuphoriaofhisslow,lazystrokeshadsentherintoa
redhazeofneed.Withinminutes,she’dtriedtoclawatJack’sshouldersinsilentplea—
onlytorealizehe’dtiedherdownagain.Andblindfoldedher.
He’dreleasedthetiesatheranklessuddenly,sherecalled,thenshiftedhercloseto
theheadofthebed.Keepingherwriststethered,he’dsatherupand,withagripof
controlledfervor,guidedherdownonhiscock.
“Rideme,cher.Squeezemewiththatprettypussyandrideme,”hewhisperedinthe
midnightair.
Withhishandsclutchingherhips,Jackdictatedthespeedanddepthofhis
penetration.Nevertoodeep,nevertoofast.Neverenoughtodoanythingbutreduceher
toapanting,pleadingmassoftingles.
Morganhadwhimperedformore.Perspirationdampenedherbelly,herback,asshe
strainedtowardareleasehewouldn’tgiveher.Instead,hemerelydroveherup,up,upto
mindlessnesswithendlesslyslowstrokes.
“Jack…”shemoaned.
“Non.”Hesatupbeneathher,thennippedatthetipofherbreastwithhisteeth,
evenasoneofhishandsstruckherbareass.
Thedoublepleasure-painricochetedthroughherbody,spiralingsensationsthrough
herbodylikehotlava.ShegaspedforairasJackburiedhimselfdeep,deepinsideher.
Hethrustup,butstillinlong,lazystrokesthatmultipliedthefriction,explodedshivers
ofsensationwithinher.
“Wrong,”hechastised,liftingherup,nearlyoffhiscock.“Whatshouldyoucallme?”
Morganhesitated,teeteringontheknife’sedgeofneed.Panting,hersexonfire,her
boundhandspreventingherfromtouchinghim,shecriedout,“More.Please…”
“You’llgetitwhenyouaddressmeproperly.”
“Sir.”Shemanagedtogetthewordoutofhermouthinarush.“Sir.”
Jackrewardedherwithaquickupthrust,hiscockburrowingdeep,fillingher
completely.Morgancriedout.Thehandatherhipinchedoveruntilhisthumbtoyed
withherclit.Withamoan,shearchedintohistouch,seekingtheedgeofthecliffthat
wasnearlyinfrontofher.Almost…
Withquickfingers,heuntiedherhands—andmadeitcleartheywouldnotstayidle.
“Playwithyournipples,Morgan.Showmehowyouliketohavethemtouched.”
Shehesitated,apprehensiontanglingwithajoltoflust.Putherhandsonherself
whilehewatched?OhGod,theideaexcitedher.
Whenshedidn’tcomply,Jackstoppedhisslow,steadythrusts.Morganwhimpered
“Touchthem.Now,”hedemanded.“OrIwillstopfuckingyouandspankthatpretty
littleassredagain…”
Morgandidn’twanttothinkabouthowmuchshe’dlikedhisbroadpalmstrikingthe
cheeksofherbutt.Butshewantedhiscockinsidehermore,asmuchasshewantedto
pleasehim.Shebroughtherhandstoherbreastsandcuppedthem,wishingmorethan
anythingthatshecouldseehisface.Washearousedbywhatshewasdoing?Repulsed?
“Andyournipples.Youdon’tignorethemwhenyoumakeyourselfcome,doyou?”
“No,”shesaidbreathlessly,squeezingthembetweenherthumbandfingers,then
givingaslighttwist.“No,sir.”
Afreshrushofmoisturesurgedfromherpassage,wettingheralready-slickfolds.
Herbody’sgesturedidn’tgounnoticed.
“Yes,cher.Iloveyouwet.You’resoperfecttofuck,likeyouweremadeformycock.”
Jackloweredheronhiserectionagainandpouredintoheragainwithaheady,steady
rhythmthatmadeherheadspin,herbodyburn.Shemethim,thrustforthrust,moanfor
moan,pinchinghernipplesoneachdownwardstrokeuntiltheyweresohard,so
sensitive.
“Moveyourhands,”hemurmuredagainstherskin.
Itwasalmostwithreluctancethatshereleasedthehardbudsofherbreasts.Difficult
toadmitthat,butsatisfactionwassoclose,shetasteditonhertongue.Shewhimpered
forit.HerfingerspinchinghernipplesaddedtothepleasureJackswarmedherwith.
Shedidn’thavetodowithoutthedelightforlong.Hetookoneofherstifftipsinto
hismouth,suckingsohard,hepresseditagainsttheroofofhismouthwhilehistongue
teasedtheunderside.Hisfingerstormentedtheother,puttingsomuchsweetpressure,
somuchache,aroundthesensitivecreststhatshenearlyscreamed.
“You’retighteningonmycock,cher.Youdon’tcomeuntilItellyouto,”hereminded.
“Ican’tstopit,sir,”shemurmured,helplessagainsttherisingtideofecstasy
threateningtoovertakeher.
“Youcan.Youwill.Justasyou’llplaywithyourclitforme.”Heliftedoneofher
handstohismouthandsuckedafingerintotheshockingheat.“Lickyourfingerlike
this,getitallniceandwet,thenstrokeitoveryourclitforme.”
Shewantedto.Oh,God,shewantedto.Themerethoughtstabbedherwithafresh
surgeofneed.But…“Itwillmakemecome.”
Hesmackedherass.“Addressmeproperly.”
Morganswallowedagainstherneed.“Itwillmakemecome,sir.”
“NotuntilIsayso,”hewarned.“Nowtakethatfingerintoyourmouth.Yes.Deep.
Suckit.Beautiful,cher.Good.”
Hepistonedherupanddownonhiscock.Bloodrushedinflowingriverstowardtheir
joinedbodies,floodingeverynerveendingwithneed,swellingherfoldsuntilshefeltthe
slickfrictionofeverythrustinside,outside—everywhere.Shesqueezedhereyesshut,
tryingtofocus,butshecouldn’tholdbackmuchlonger…Jackwasdrivingherbeyond
herabilitytoendure.
Yetthelastthingshewantedtodowasusethesafewordtostophim.
“Squeezemewithyourpussy.Yes,”hecroaked.“Nowputthatfingeronyourclitand
showmehowyourubit.”
Searedbeyondmodestyorshamebytheflamesofpleasure,Morgandidashe
demanded,slidingherpalmdownherabdomen,intothedampnestofhercurlsand
circledherwetfingeroverherclit.
“Oh,yes!”Shecouldn’tholdthesoundin.Immediately,sherealizedthatthehood
hadpulledbackfromherclitandeverydragofherfingertipovertheswollenlittlebud
waslikefireinhersex,burningdowntothepassageJackfilledwitheverythrust.
“Don’tstop,”hegrowled.“Showmehowyouplaywithyourclit.”
Actually,shecouldn’thavestoppedforanything.Hersalivamingledwithherown
juicesasshepressedasecondfingerontoherclitandbeganthemotionssheknew
wouldrocketherstraightintobliss.
Still,shestrainedtoholdbackherorgasm,waitingforJack’sapproval.Somehow
needingit.Thepressuregrew,mounted.Sheclenchedeverymuscle,evenasshefelt
compelledtodriveherselfhigher.AndJack…Hewasnowpoundingintoher,amoan
punctuatinghiseverystroke.Insideher,shecouldfeelhimthickening,swelling.He
lengthenedhisstrokes,thecrestofhiscockhittingherg-spotwitheveryrapid-fire
thrust.
AndstillMorganheldon,digginghernailsintohishipwithonehand,strokingthe
bundleofnervesbetweenherlegswiththeother.Herthighstightenedaroundhim.She
criedout,tryingdesperatelytowaitforJack’sconsenttoreleasethegiganticexplosion
swirlinginsideherwiththebright,shiningpromiseofNirvana.
“Jouispourmoi,”hedemanded.“Comeforme!”
Jackdidn’tevenfinishhissentencebeforeitcrashedoverherover,grantingthat
dazzlingdancewiththestarsaslightandcolorflashedinherhead.Thebeautyhada
darkside,though,asitpouredthroughher,swirlingaroundher,thenpulledherunder,
intoadarkmorass,likeariptide.Itdrownedherinviolentpleasure,aplacewhereonly
thewhite-hotsearofsatisfactionlived.Aringinginherearsandastingofherthroattoldher,overtheroarofherpulsingheartbeat,thatshewasscreaming.Jack’slonggroanof
satisfactionjoinedher.
Afterthat,sherememberednothing,justdeepdreamlesshoursofheavenlysleep,
cocoonedinJack’swarmth.
Nowthebedwasempty,thebedroomdoorclosed.
Andthemerethoughtofhimandtheirnighttogetherleftherachingandwetagain.
Morganburiedherfaceinherhands.God,whathadshedone?
BeforeJacktouchedher,she’dworriedthatafteronenightwithhim,shewouldnever
bethesameagain.She’dbeenrighttoworry.
Worse,afterarousingherintopantingforeverythingshesworeshe’dneverwant,
couldn’twant,thensatisfyingherbeyondhereveryeroticimagining,Jackhadmerely
awakenedatsomepointandleft.No,shehadn’texpectedundyingdevotionor
confessionsoflove.Crazy.JackColedidn’tseemlikethekindofmantobowto
somethingassoftasemotion.Theverynotionmadeherlaugh.Orwouldhave,hadshe
beeninthemoodtoseethehumor.
Asitwas,shesawonlythatshe’dgivenherself—repeatedly—tosomeonewhocould
turnherinsideout,makeherintosomethinghermotherwouldbehorrifiedby,Andrew
wouldscorn.Awantonshewasn’tsureshecouldcometotermswith.Thenhewould
leaveher.
Ithadtoend…evenifthatrecklesspartofhercravedmoreofJackandthesweet
insanityofthepleasurehegaveher.
Thatcouldn’thappen.Otherthanonenightofsex,theydidn’tsuit.Earthy,laid-back
Jackdidn’tfitinherworld.Andshe…didn’tbelonginhis,aworldofsilkencommands
thatcamewithvelvetbondsandspankingsandactsthatbothhorrifiedandfascinated.
AndwhywassheevencontemplatinganythingshemightsharewithJackbeyondlast
night?
Hehadchallengedhertogiveherselftohimforanight.Fine.Shehad.Itwasn’t
goingtohappenagain.Nowtheyjusthadtodivinetheidentityofthisstalkerandshe
couldgetbacktoherlife…andsomehowforgetJackbeforeshelostherselfinhim.
Onthebrightside,whenitcametimetofilmtheepisodeofTurnMeOnthatdealt
withdomination,she’dbewellprepared.
Withasoursmileatherownbadhumor,Morganroseandfishedaroundtheroom
forsomethingtohidehernakednessandwardoffthemorning’schill.Ahugesweatshirt
ofJack’sthathungtomid-thighandapairofsockslater,shefinger-combedherhairto
riditoftheworstofthetangles.Damn,shecouldn’tevenfindapairofunderwear.And
therestwouldhavetowait.Thewayherstomachwasrumbling,sheneededfood.
Withadeepbreath,Morganopenedthebedroomdoorandsteppedintothehall.
Thelastthingsheexpectedtoseewasanothermanstandinginthemiddleofthe
living/kitchenarea.
BuilthardwithobviouslyGermanicancestors,themanroseaboutthreeinchesabove
Jack,whowasnomidgethimself.Hairthecolorofrichcaramelcutmilitaryshort,a
squarejaw,andshouldersamilewideallscreamedmale!Butitwastheeyes,bright,
razor-sharp,deepdenimblue…slashingoverJack’sshouldertofocusonherwithcool
assessment—andhotreaction—thatstartledMorgan.
Thisstrangercouldprobablyguessthatshe’dspentthenighthavingsexwithJack.
Asifherownlicentiousbehaviorhadn’tbeenbadenough,thisnewrealizationsenta
freshflushofmortificationrisinguphercheeks.
Jackturnedtofindherfrozeninthehall.Sheprobablyhadthatdeer-in-the-
headlightslook,shethought,forcingherselftotakeadeepbreathandmeetthe
stranger’sgaze.
“Morgan,”Jackcalled.
Shecutherglancetohim.My,helookedyummyinthemorning.Justhisvoice,low,
gravelly,withahintofcommand,bothreassuredherandmadeherwetagain.Bad,bad
sign.
Herbellyjumped,hercheeksflushingagainwhensherememberedforthesecond
timeeverythingthey’ddonethenightbefore.
Hisdarkeyesburnedwithmemories,evenashecrossedhisarmsoverhismassive
chest,jawtense.Hisposturedidnotinvitemorning-afteraffection,evenifshe’dbeenso
inclined.Wasthisremotemanthesameonewho’dtangledhislimbswithhersina
warmembraceofprotectionduringthedarkofthenight?
“Thisismybusinesspartner,DekeTrenton,”hesimplysaid.
Jackandthisnewcomer,theymightlookabitlikedayandnight,lightanddark,but
withironbodiesandhardeyes,theywerecutfromthesamemilitarycloth.Sheshivered.
Toomuchtestosteroneinoneroom.
ThebigwarriorsteppedaroundJackandextendedhishandwithafriendlysmilethat
changedhiswholefacefromforbiddingtosurprisinglyapproachable.
Haltingly,sheheldherhandouttohim,andtheyshook.“MorganO’Malley.”
“Jack,youasshole.Hoardingtheprettygirlsagain.Ireallyoughttobeatyourassfor
that.”
Hesnorted.“Yeah,youtry.”
Dekegrinned.“Later.Outside.You,me,andthegators.”HeturnedtoMorganwitha
conspiratorialwhisper.“Askme,andI’lltellyouwhotoplaceyourmoneyon.Betteryet,
maybeIcanconvinceyoutograntthewinnerakiss.ThenIpromiseitwon’tbeany
contest.”
Hisgentleteasingsetherateaseimmediately.Despitetheawkwardsituation,shefelt
herselfrelaxandsmileback.
“I’mnotthehumanequivalentofapokerchip,”Morganteasedwitharollofher
eyes.
“Goodgirl,”Jackpraised.“Andifmybusinesspartnerdoesn’tstopmessingwhere
hehasn’tbeeninvited,he’sgoingtofindhisfaceonebloodyblob—uglierthanitalready
is.”
DekelaughedandsaunteredbacktowardJack,slappinghimontheshoulder.“You’re
sodamnsubtle,Jack.”Hecastanotherheatedlookinherdirection,gazelingeringonher
barelegsandtheoutlineofherunboundbreaststhroughthesweatshirt.“Andyou’re
oneluckybastard.”
Morganbitherlipunderhisappraisinggaze,atoncediscomfited.Andshamefully
intrigued.Dekelookedlikesomethingoutofahard-corewarfilm—notatallhertype.
NeitherwasJack,forthatmatter.But…nevermind;shewasn’tgoingthere.
“Didyoucomehereforareason?Orjusttotormentme?”Jackshotbackacidly
Morgansawthroughthesarcasmimmediately.ItwasclearheandDekeweregreat
friends.Jackdidn’ttrustmanypeople,butshe’dbethetrustedthebigblondguywith
hislife.Atthismoment,however,Jackwastense,watchful,evenabitangry.He
pretendedtotakeDeke’steasingwell—buthewasn’t.
“Well,youknowIneverpassuptheopportunitytotormentyou.NotthatIneedthe
practice.”
“Nope,you’vegotitdowntoafineart.”
“Yearsofeffort.”Dekesighed.“ButIdidcomehereforareason.”Heglancedbackat
Morgan,allbusinessnow.“Youmightwanttohearthis,too.It’saboutyourstalker.”
Shesuckedinabreath.Inallhertangledemotionsandtheeasybanter,she’dlost
sightofthemurderouslunatic.Sillyher.
“Okay.Um,oneminute.Ican’tfacethiswithoutsomethingtoeat.”
“Andcoffee,I’msure,”Dekeadded.
Morganmadeaface.Jacklaughed.
“Shedoesn’tdrinkit,”hetoldDeke.
Heraisedatawnybrow.“Isshehuman?”
Rollinghereyes,Morganpaddedbacktothebedroom.Ifshewasgoingtofacethe
testosteroneinquisition,sheneededsomethingmorethanaflapofsweatshirtcovering
herass.Onceshe’dretrievedJack’soversizedbathrobe,shepaddedtothebathroomand
brushedherteethandhair.
Whenshemadeherwaydownthehallagain,JackandDekebothsatattheround
kitchentable,cupsofstrongcoffeerestingonthesmoothpinesurface.Apieceoftoast
andaglassoforangejuicewaitedforher.
SheglancedatJackinsurprise.Hemerelyguidedherintoachairwithoutcomment.
He’dmadedinnerlastnight,andnowthis?Themanwhotiedherupandtoldher
exactlyhowtobehaveinthebedroomsohecouldsendherstraighttomindlessorgasm
didsomethingasmenialascookforher?Likehewastakingcareofher?
“Thanks,”shemurmured,totallyconfused,asshesettledintothechairacrossfrom
Deke.
Jacksatonherleft,thenwithanod,turnedtohisbusinesspartner.“Dekehassome
palsattheFBIwhohavestudiedcopiesofthephotosthesickbastardhasbeenleaving
youandthepatternofhisbehavior.”
Dekegrippedhismugofcoffeeandleanedacrossthelittletable,aformidable
presenceeveninthelarge,airyroom.Morganfoundherselfholdingherbreath,hoping
thatheknewsomething,anything,tohelpcatchherpersonalNormanBatesbeforehe
becameafull-fledgedPsycho.
“Yourstalkerislikelyamansomewherebetweentheageoftwentyandforty-five.
He’ssomeoneyouknow.Hisbehavior…hefunctionslikeanintimate-partnerstalker,
someonewhoisalittleobsessedandcan’tletgo.”
“Butifhe’ssomeoneIknow,wouldn’tIknowwho?Imean,wouldn’thewantmeto
becertainwhoheis?”
“Thewayhewithholdshisidentityisunusual.Eitherhe’spurposelyhidingitfrom
youorhethinksit’ssoobviousthatyoumustknowwhoyou‘belongto.’Judgingfrom
thebitofevidencewehave,Ithinkit’sthelatter.Idon’tthinkthispersonisinto
subterfugeforthesakeofhiding.Sothatmakeshimdelusional,too.”
Morgansighed,herstomachtighteningwithfearatDeke’severyword.“Wasthere
anyquestionofthat?”
“No,butthefactthathefollowedyoutoHoustonwhenyouwenttostaywithyour
fiancétellsushe’sserious,”Jackadded.
Dekeglancedbackather,surprisereflectedintheraisedarchesofhisbrows.
Fiancé?Morgansearchedhermemory.Jack’stensejawandblackglowersuddenly
remindedherthatshe’dtoldhimthatshewasengagedtoBrandon.Theliehadn’tkept
himfrommovingintooclose.ButcorrectingJacknowwouldonlygivehimagreener
lightthanhealreadythoughthehadtopursuewhateversexualarrangementhemight
wantfromher.Nope.Shewashangingontotohersubterfugeandpleadingextremeguilt
incasehecamesniffingaroundagain.Nexttime,she’dhavetoremembershewas
supposedlyanengagedwoman.
“L.A.toHoustonisalongwayforaprank,”sheagreed.
“Exactly,”Dekecutin.“Butthewaythischaractertookshotsatyousuggeststhere’s
vengeanceonhismind.”
“Hethinksyou’rehis,”saidJack.“Butwhenhesawyouhavingcoffeewithme,that’s
thefirsttimehetriedtoshootyou…likehewantedtopunishyouandkeepanyonefrom
havingyouifhecouldn’t.”
“That’stwisted.”Morgangrimaced.
“Stalkersaren’tnice,normalguys.”Dekeshrugged.
Shesighed.“Istillhavenoideawhothisis.”
“I’msureyouknowhim,Morgan.Thisissomeoneyou’vebeenclosewithonsome
level,somewherebetween
conversationallyandsexually.Butinyourinteraction,hebelievedthatyouconnected,
thatyouweremeantforhim,whichgiveshimtherighttopunishyouforany‘bad’
behavioryouexhibit,likeseeinganotherman.You’vefiguredoutthathe’stenacious.”
“Yeah,Iknowhe’snotgoingtocallitadayanytimesoon.”Theknotofapprehension
inherbellytightened.
“Good,”Dekepraised.“YouandJackaredoingeverythingyoucan.Stayherefornow.
Atthispoint,don’ttrytobeMissIndependent.”
GettingawayfromJackwouldbegreatforherselfrespect—butterribleforhersafety.
Morgansighed.“Itchafesmetoneedababysitter,butuntilIknowwhoandwhatI’m
dealingwith,Ifeelbetterwithbackup.”
“Good.Doesheevercallyourcellphone?”Dekequestioned.
“No.Aboutsixmonthsago,Igotanewnumber.Onlythreepeoplehavethenumber:
Mymother,Brandon,andmyagent.”
“Brandon?”
“Herfiancé.”
Jack’srancorasheansweredhisbusinesspartnerstunnedher.Hesoundedvery
unhappyaboutthe“fact”shehadasoon-tobehusband.Morganfrowned.He’dgotten
whathewanted,right?Hecouldn’tpossiblybejealous.
“Oh,andmyproductionassistant,Reggie,hasthenumber.”
JackandDekeshoteachotheranobliquelook.
“HowmuchdoyouknowaboutReggie?”
TheysuspectedReggie,clearly.Morganstartedtotellthemtheywerebeingabsurd.
Reggiewasacrossbetweenagiantteddybearandafatherfigure.Butthensherealized
thatanyonecouldbeasuspect.Anyoneatall,nomatterhowabsurditsounded.
“Reggiehasbeenwithmesincetheshowstarted.He’ssomewherearoundforty.
Divorced.Hedoesn’tseemlikethetype…butIguessnoonegets‘stalker’tattooed
acrosstheirforeheadtomakeidentificationeasy.”
“Exactly.Doyoutalkwithhimaboutpersonalthings?”
Sheshrugged.“Some,Iguess.Heletmecryonhisshoulderatimeortwoaftermy
bigbreak-upwithAndrew.AfterTurnMeOnwasrenewed,mostofthecastwentout
togethertothistrendyL.A.barandputdownafewtoomany.Reggieendeduptelling
meabouthisdivorceandhowhisexcheatedonhimbeforeheorderedapotofcoffee
andinsistedontakingmehomesinceIcouldn’tpossiblydrive.”
“Didyouhavesexwithhim?”Jackprodded.
Morgan’sjawdropped.“No!Itoldyoueverybitofmypersonalpast,whichI’msure
yousharedwithDeke.”
“Hewassketchyaboutthedetailsatbest,”Dekesaidwithmockregret.“Youcanfeel
freetoprovidedetails.Orusemetoreenactanythingparticularlyjuicy.”
Jackwhippedaroundinhisseatandburnedafurious,quellingglareatDeke.
“Ornot,”saidtheblondgiant.
Morgan’sgazebouncedbackandforthbetweenthetwoofthem.Whatintheheck
wasgoingon?Jackwasactingalmost…possessive.Sheheldinasnort.Yeah,asifshe
matteredtoaguylikeJack.Tohim,she’djustbeaplaything.
“NochanceyouweretoointoxicatedtorememberhavingsexwithReggie?”Jack
asked.
“No.Iwokeupthenextmorningwithmypantyhosestillon.”
Jackrelaxedadegreeortwoandlookedathispal.“Anythingelse,man?”
Deke’sreplywassuddenlyverybusinesslike.“Notatthemoment.I’lltakethe
originalsofthephotosoutforforensicanalysis,toseeifthisguyleftbehindanyprints
orotherclues.”
“Thatsoundsunlikely,”shesaid.
“Itis,”Dekeadmittedwithashrug.“Butyouneverknow.Maybehehadacareless
moment,orneverbelievedyou’dtrytohavethemanalyzed.Iwon’tknowanythingfora
fewdays.Butbepatient.We’llgettothebottomofit.”Hepattedherhand.
Suddenly,Jackstood.Hischairscrapedacrossthehardwoodfloors,rippingintothe
earlymorningquiet.HisentirebodywastenseasheslappedDekeontheback.
“Let’sgodiscussbusiness.”
Dekehesitated,appearingtofightagrin.Morganhadthefeelinghewascompletely
amusedbythedemand.
“Okay.”HeturnedtoMorgan.“Nicetomeetyou.”
Whenheextendedhishandacrossthetable,Morganbarelyhadtimetoshakeit
beforeJackherdedhimdownthehalltothedoor,unlockedit,andpushedhimthrough.
Shewatchedthemdisappearwithafrown.WhatinthehellwasupwithJack?#
Jackresistedtheurgetoslamthedoorbehindthem.Healsoresistedtheurgetoplow
hisfistsintoDeke’sface—butthattookalotmoreeffort.
Whatinthehelliswrongwithme?
“Okay,whateveritis,spillit,”Dekedemanded,sittinginthechairbesidethe
computerworkstation.
Jackdidn’tpretendtomisunderstand.
Hesighedandploppeddownintohisownchair.Whereshouldhestart?Thetangled
taleonlygotmorecomplicatedwitheveryminutethatpassed.Revenge,lust,attempted
murder,sexthatdidn’tjustrockhisworld,butrockedhissoul—allinthelasttwodays.
Butlikeeverystory,Jackfiguredhe’dbetterstartatthebeginning.
“Myex-wifewashavingaflingwithanothermanbeforesheleft.”
“YoumentionedthatonceafteraboutyoursixthhurricanethatweekendinNew
Orleans.”
“HisnamewasBrandonRoss.”
Dekefrowned.“BrandonRo—theBrandonthatMorganisengagedto?”
Jackrestedhiselbowsonhiskneesandpeeredupathisfriend.“Theverysame.”
“I’dsayit’sahugecoincidencethatyouwoundupwithyourenemy’swomanunder
yourprotectionandunderyourroof—andunlessI’mtotallyoff-basehere—inyourbed.
ButIknowyoutoowelltobelieveinacoincidencethatbig.”
“Iplannedit,”Jackconfirmed.“Everythingtothelastdetail.Iwasgoingtoseduce
her,thenfuckher,andrubthatfactinBrandon’sface,thewayherubbeditinmine.”
Dekewhistled.“Ballsy,man.Crappybutballsy.Sowhathappened?”
Jackstood,pacedthesmallwindowlessroom.Whenhaditgottensodamnsmallin
here?Ithadneverbotheredhimbefore.
HeturnedhisbackonDeke.Sighed.Fistedhishands.Merde,hefeltjumpy.
No,itwasmorethanthat.Anger—atBrandonforstartingthisshit,athimselffor
feelingthedesiretogetbackathisformerpalbeingdangerouslyusurpedbythedesire
tohaveMorganunderhimagain.AngerthatMorganhad,allnightlong,cheatedwith
perfectblissonherfiancéandappearednottocareasinglebit.Yetshe’dstillmanaged
toholdbackthat…somethinginsideher.Damnit,herbody,herface,toldhimshestill
hadn’tfullyfuckingsubmitted.
ThenhehadtoendureDeke’steasingandflirtationwithher.Thatjustequaled
wantingtoripthebigblondgiant’sheadoff.
Totopitalloff,therewashisdesire…Jackswallowedagainsttheneedbubblingin
hisgut.He’dbeeninsideMorganlessthanfourhoursago,andalreadyhewaslikea
starvingman,panting,salivating.Readytofighttotasteheragain.Theneedraged,like
hehadnocontrol.Itwasunacceptable…andundeniable.
“Idon’tknow,”Jacksaidfinally.“Itjust…It’snotassimpleasIthought.”
“Didyoubecomeherstalkertogetherwhereyouwantedher?”
“Youknowmebetterthanthat.Iwouldn’thavecalledyoutoprofileapretend
stalker.I’djustplannedtolureMorgantoLafayetteforanafternoon.Nailherenoughto
persuadeherthatBrandonwasn’theroneandonly,thenlethergo.There’sareal
stalker,andwhenheshotatherinacrowdinbroaddaylight,shewasfuckingterrified.I
broughtherhere.”
“Thatmakessense,exceptthispossessivething.It’snotlikeyou.Inthepast,we’ve
shared—”
“Don’teventhinkit,”Jackgrowled.“Morganisveryreserved.Besides,thisisa
womanrunningforherlife,notsomekittenoneofuspickedupinasexclub.”
“Noneofthathasstoppedyoufromfuckingher,though,hasit?”
“Dropit,damnit.Now!”
“Okeydokey.”Dekeheededhiswarninggrowlwithatiltedsmileandhelduphis
handsinashowofsurrender.“Alllasciviousthoughtsofthelusciousredheadinthe
nextroomaregone.”
Jackrolledhisshoulders,tryingtoreleasehistension.Damn,anightwithMorgan
hadhimcompletelytiedupinknotsandhisheadscrewedonwrong.Hewishedhecould
banishhislasciviousthoughtofherhalfaseasilyasDekesupposedlyhad.Itwasn’t
happening.HewantedmoreofMorgan.Andhewantedhernow.
“Myquestionis,whythejealousloverroutine?”Dekeskeweredhimwithapiercing
stare,asifhekneweverydamnthoughtscreamingthroughhishead.“Unless,ofcourse,
youreallyarejealous.”
Damn!Thesadrealitywasthatthegreengremlinwasfeastingonhisgut.No
questionaboutit.HehadsharedafewwomenwithDekebefore.Goodtimeswerehad
byall.RepeatingthatwithMorgan…thethoughtconflictedhim.Aninstincttoldhim
thatshewouldloveaménage—ifshecouldwraphermindaroundit.Buthefeltoddly
proprietaryabouther.Allowinghisbuddy/businesspartnertogetinontheactionmade
himwanttospitnails.
TherewassomethingaboutMorganthathithimsquarelyinthechest,sohardhe
couldn’tbreathe.Jackwastooexperiencedtoplaythedenialgame.Hisburningwantfor
Brandon’sfiancéesimplywas,hadlittletodowithrevenge,andwishingotherwise
wasn’tgoingtochangeit.
Itwentdeeper,though.FuckingMorganforawholenighthadn’tsatisfiedhislibido
orhisdesiretobetrayBrandon.Rather,somethingaboutherhadbeensoperfect.Jack
didn’trememberever…connectingwithawomansocompletely,asifhecouldseeinside
her,readhereverydesire.Andhe’dbeenphysicallyinsidehertothehilt,butthatwasn’t
enough.HewantedsomethingmorefromMorgan,desiredtherighttogiveherwhatever
sheneeded,thefreedomtotellhimanythingshefeltoryearnedfor.
Instead,shewasholdingbackonhim.
Damnit,hedidn’twantthis.Achingforherwasn’tapartofhisplan.Fuckher,plant
seedsofdoubt,encouragehertoleaveBrandon.Walkaway.Simple,right?
Notanymore.Jackdidn’tjustwanthertoleaveBrandontomakehisrevenge
complete.Recklessdesperationgnawedathim.Hewasn’tsurehecouldjustlethergo,
walkaway.Eventhoughshe’dcheatedonBrandon.Theknowledgedidn’tsetwellwith
Jack.He’dthoughthecouldsteerclearoftwo-timingwomenwhenhedivorcedKayla,
butMorganwassomuch…morethanhisexwifehadeverbeen.
Thestupid,hormone-happypartofhimwantedtoearnMorgan’strust,makeherhis
tocommand.Hishard-ondemandedheclaimher.
There,he’dadmittedit.Maybeowninguptoitwasthefirststeptorecoveringfrom
hisinsanityandgettingbacktofocusingonhisrevenge.
Dartingacrosstheroom,Jackpaced,mindflyingasifhisbrainhadshort-circuited.
Surelyjusttoomuchsexontoolittlesleep.
Butheknewhimselftoowell.Somethinginhisgutwasshoutingathimtoabandon
hisrevengeandgrabtheshimmeringperfectionofMorganforhimself.Treatherlikea
woman,teachhertorespectherdesires,careforher.Seizeherandneverletgo.
ThatsomethinginhisgutalsotoldhimemailingBrandonthevideoofhimtaking
Morganagainstthedoorhadbeenamistake.Abigone.
Withasigh,Jacksankintohisdeskchair.Heshouldn’tbetroubledatthethoughtof
BrandonseeinghimfuckMorgan.Butlikeastupidshmuck,hewas.Damnit,hewished
hehadn’tsharedasingledetailabouttheirfirsttimewithanyone,muchlessavisual
blow-by-blow.
Hisregretdidn’tmakeadamnlickofsense.SendingthatvideotoBrandonhadbeen
halfthepointofhisrevenge!Despitethat,Jackwasuncomfortablyawarethathe’dsent
somethingtoBrandonthathewantedtokeepbetweenhimandMorganalone.Whatdid
thatsayabouthisfeelingsforher?
Worse,ifshefoundout,Morganwouldn’tunderstandhisrevenge,justviewhis
actionsasahugebetrayalofhertrust.Onethatcouldundermineanyfoundationhe
madewithher.Andifhewantedtotouchheragain,hewasgoingtohavetoopenup,
takeherintohiscarebeyondthephysical.Hewouldhavetoshowherthatshemattered.
Fuck.HewasgoingtohavetochoosebetweenMorganandrevengebecausetheir
uninhibitednighttogetherhadnotbeenenoughtosatehim.Notnearlyenough.She’d
onlydugherselfdeeperintohispsyche.
Howthehellcouldhejustdismissthreeyearsoffury,betrayal,hatred,andplotting?
Howthehellcouldhejustletasweet,submissivefirecrackerlikeMorgango?
“Oh.”Dekelaughed.“Morganhasyoubytheballs.You’restrungoutonthiswoman.
Bad.NotthatIblameyou.Shelookslikeonesweetlittlefu—”
“Shutup.Don’tputMorganinthesamegutterasyourmouth,”Jacksnarled.
Assoonasthewordslefthismouth,herealizedhe’ddonenothingbutconfirmevery
oneofDeke’ssuspicions.
Shit!
Dekelaughed.
Jackdidhisbesttounclenchhisrigidjaw.“Let’stalkshop.”
Hisbuddyheldinawidegrin.“Sure.Wecandothat.Whoamongoursuspectsdo
youthinkisMorgan’sstalker?”
“Couldbeanyone.”Jackshrugged,strugglingtorelax.“Idoubtit’sthecollege
boyfriendwiththewifeandkid.Itendtothinkshe’srightaboutBrentPherson.Apro
footballplayerontheroadcan’tbetakingpicturesofheratherhouse.Sothatleavesher
formerfiancé,herproductionassistant,orsomerandomtwistedfan.”
“Isuspectol’Reggiehasallthemakingsofasicko.”
“He’snotasloyalasMorganthinks.Hell,Ipaidhimtogetclosetoher,topassmy
infoandbiotoherfortheshow.Hetookmymoneywithoutaskingquestionsandsent
meherpersonalemailaddressandIMinfo.Butthenhethreatenedmewitheverything
shortofcastrationifIsomuchaslookedinherdirection.”Jackgrimaced.
“Sohesoldherout,thenturnedonyou.Nice.”Dekesighed.“Washemorejealous
boyfriendthanprotectivefather?”
“Hardtosayoverthephone.Couldhavebeeneither.”
“Hebearswatching.Indiggingyesterday,Ifoundouthemanagedtoavoidprison
timeforsexualassaultduetoatechnicality.”
SurprisericochetedthroughJack.“Really?Holyshit.”
“Yep.IwonderifMorganknowsaboutReggie’spast.”
“Idoubtit.Shesayshe’slikeasurrogatefathertoher.Idon’tthinkshe’dfeelthat
wayifsheknewhemighthaveahobbyasarapist.Butwealsoneedtoseeifwecanrule
outanycreepyneighborsandfans,justincasebut—”
“MyguttellsmethisissomeoneMorganknows,someoneshetrusts.Thathis
identityisgoingtoshockhertohertoes.”
Ashegrippedthearmsofhischair,concernforMorgangnawedatJack’scalm.This
guywasn’tpatient,andJackwassureitwouldbeawholelotscarierbeforetheyfinally
caughtthebastardandputastoptohisshit.
“Exactly.”
“SoyouhavetostayclosetoMorgan,watchhertwentyfour/seven,”Dekepointedout.
Wasn’tthatgoingtobeabighelpinunknottinghisgutandgettinghisheadscrewed
backonstraight?
“Yeah.”
Withatossofhishead,Dekehowledwithlaughter.“Andyouwantheragainsobad
youcan’tseestraight.”
Jacksighed.Hehatedbeingatransparentasglass.“Yeah.”
Thequestionwas,revengeorMorgan?Whichshouldhechoose?
#
“Takecare,Morgan.”Dekepausedatthecottage’sfrontdoorlatethatafternoon.
“Thanks,”shemurmured.
Fromhisloftyheight,helookeddown,hisunusualblueeyesswirlingwithconcern.
Hecuppedhershouldergently.“I’mgoingtohavetheseoriginalphotosexaminedfor
anyforensicevidencewecanfind.Inthemeantime,Jackwilltakecareofyou.”
MorganhadlikedDekerightaway.Hisangularfacesoftenedupwithasmile.Hejust
seemed…nice.Definitelystrongenoughtoprotect.Andhewaseasytojokewith.
Probablyeasytotalkto,aswell.
Unlikesomepeople.
Morgandartedaglancetoherright,atJack.HisgazewasfixedonDeke’spalm
caressinghershoulder.Hisglowercouldn’tbemistakenforanythingelse.Whatwasup
withhim?
“IfJackdoesn’ttakecareofyou,youwalkovertothatphone,”Dekepointedtothe
sleekblackunitmountedonthewall,“andcallme.I’mthesecondspeeddialbutton.I’ll
rushrightouttogiveyouwhateveryouneed.”Hewinked.
Morganwaggedachastisingfingerathim,butshecouldn’tcompletelyeraseher
smile.Histeasingflirtationcoaxedher.Themanwasabornflirt.Heprobablyhad
womenfoamingatthemouthforhisattention,butitwassweetofhimtokeepthemood
lightwhenbothhersafetyandhersexlifewereweighingheavyonhermind.
AnotherglanceatJacktoldherthathewasnotamused.Notintheleast.
“Thanks,”shemurmured.“I’llbeeagertohearifyoufoundanyfingerprintsonthe
photos.Oranythingthatmighthelp.”
Withanothercaressofhershoulder,Dekewaggledhisbrowsather.“I’lldefinitely
keepintouch.”
Again,shelaughed.ThenhewavedatJackandmadehiswayouttothesunset-
drenchedswamp.
Whenthedoorshut,leavingheralonewithJack,suddensilencethrummedaround
her.Hersmiledied.Inthedistance,sheheardDeke’sboatsplashawayfromthelittle
dock.Inside,herheartbeatpickedupitspace.Tensionwrappedaroundher.Morganhad
noideawhy,butshedidn’tquestionthethickair.
“Thankyouforaskinghimtohelp.I’mgratefultohaveanyextraassistancethat
mightidentifythisstalkersoIcanhavemylifeback.”
Jackpausedalongtimebeforeanswering.“Dekeissmartandwell-connected.If
there’sanyforensicevidencetobefoundonthosephotos,he’llturnitup.”
“Good.”Shenodded.
Thentheawkwardsilencefell.Shecouldn’treadJack’sexpression,butshefelthis
displeasurechurningtheair.Morganfrowned,completelyconfused.Didhethinkher
flirtationwithDekemeantsomething?Wouldhecareifithad?Orwashejustannoyed
withherpresencenowthatshe’dsurrenderedtohiseverywhimlastnight?Maybehe
justwishedshe’dgoaway.
“AndDekeseemednice,”shemurmured,hopingtolightenthetenseatmosphere.
Jacksnorted.“Dekeisalotofthings.Thinkinghe’snicecouldbeacostlymistake.”
Morganhesitated,browfurrowedwithconfusion.“He’syourbusinesspartner.Ifhe’s
nothonest—”
“Ididn’tsayhewasn’thonest.Heis,asthedayislong.He’strustworthyandbrave
andsmart,withanever-say-dieattitude.He’severythingthemilitarywantsintheirelite
forces.Butwherewomenareconcerned,Iwouldn’tcallhimnice.”
“Itsoundslikeyou’rewarningmeawayfromhim,”shechallenged.“Woulditmatter
ifIwasinterested?”
Jackshifted,shoulderstensing.“Ifyou’rehavingahardtimedealingwithafew
velvetropesandsilkencommands,Dekewouldshatteryourdelicatesensibilities,cher.
Whenitcomestosex,heplaysseriously—butonlyiftherearethreepeopleintheroom.”
Threepeople?“Helikestowatch?”
ThegravellylaughJackgaveinresponsetoherquestiontookheraback.“Sexisn’ta
spectatorsportforDeke.”
Wow.ThebigGerman-descendedwarriorwiththeallAmericansmileactively
engagedintheveryFrenchwordménage.Talkaboutanewsflash…
AvisionofJackononeside,Dekeontheother,bothpleasuringherhelplesslybound
body—itflashedthroughhermind,framedinwhiteheatandredsin.Moisturepooled
betweenherlegs.Inaninstant,shewentfromdamptonearlydripping.Herclitached
withoutmercy.
Stunned,embarrassed,Morganbackedaway.“Oh.”
“Oh.”Jackshotbackwithanacidgrinashefollowedherdeeperintothecottage.
“Nexttohim,Ilooklikeachoirboy.”
Morgannearlychoked.“You’vegottobekidding!You,achoirboy?”
“Hey,Iwasoneuntilpuberty.ThechoirdirectoratOurLadyofPerpetualHopetold
meIsanglikeanangel.”
“Andyou’vegotamindlikethedevil.”
Jackmerelysmiled.“I’vebarelygivenyouanintroduction,cher.There’ssomuch
moreIcouldshowyou…”
Shebelievedhim.Utterly.Theverythoughtofthesensationsandfeelingshecould
introducehertomadeMorganshiverandache.Andnotjustforthestunningreleasehe
couldgiveher.Inhisarms,hisbed,she’dfeltsoliberatedandalive.ItfrightenedhertothinkthattheonlyplaceshecouldfellcompletelyfreetobeherselfwasboundtoJack’s
bed.
God,no.Pleaseno.
“Therewon’tbeanymoreofthat,”shevowed.“Youtoldmetogiveitanight.Idid.I
knowenoughnowtodotheshow.That’sallIneed.”
Jacksidledcloser.“Areyougoingtotellmeyoudidn’tlikeit?”
Wouldn’titbeniceifshecould,andhe’dbelieveit?Morganknewbetter.“No.But
thatdoesn’tmeanweneedanencore.”
“What’sholdingyouback,yourfiancé?”
Morgangrittedherteeth.Damnit,she’dkeptupthepretenseofarelationshipwith
BrandontokeepJackatarm’slength,butherliewasdoingalousyjob.Infact,his
questionseemedtotauntherforbeingeverybitasnaughtyashewas.
“Tosomedegree.”Maybepretendingremorsewouldturnhimoff.“Yes.Ifeel
terrible.”
“Youmight,butithasnothingtodowithcheating.Whyweren’tyouwearingyour
ringwhenyoucametomeetmeandtalkaboutsex?”
“I—Idon’thaveoneyet.Iwanttopickitoutmyself.”
Jackstudiedherwithatiltofhisheadandknowingdarkeyes.“Ithinkyou’remore
afraidofyourwantsthancheatingonyourfiancé.Wannaprovemewrong?”
Howcouldheknowthat?Howcouldhejustlookatherandtell?
“Gotohell.Igaveitanight,likeIsaidIwould.You’renottauntingmeintogiving
youanother.Nomoredomination.Nomoresex.Andnomoreconversationaboutthis.”
Withadeterminedshakeofherhead,Morganturnedaway.ShehalfexpectedJackto
grabherarm,stopher,growlsomething.Shewasnearlytothebedroomdoorwhenshe
startedtowonderifshe’dstunnedhimspeechless.Tofeelbothvictoryandcrushing
distress.
Hisvoicestoppedhercold…rightbeforeitmadeherbloodboil.
“Icanfulfillyourfantasies,cher.”
“Stop.”Handonthedoorknob,Morganpaused.Shedrewinaraggedbreath.“Damn
you.Just…juststop.”
“Non.”Hesteppedcloser,closer,untilhecurvedhishandsaroundherwaist,pressed
hiserectionagainstherass,andwhisperedinherear.“Everylastoneofyourfantasies.
Startingrightnow.”
CHAPTERNINE
Runningintothebedroomseemedlikeadamnstupidideaforsomeonetryingto
avoidthetorturousneedtohavesexwiththemanchasingher.
Holdinginawailoffrustration,Morgan’smindraced.Wherethehellelsecouldshe
gointhisthree-roomshack?Theswampwasnoplaceforacitygirl,especiallyatnight.
Shedidn’tmuchlikealligatorsorcrocsorwhateverlurkedouttherewithenormous
teethandanot-too-fussypalette.
Thedoor,theoneattheendofthehall.Ithadbeenlockedearlier,butshedidn’t
recallhimlockingitbackupafterDeke’svisit.Maybeshecoulddartinandlockit
behindher.Shuthimoutforawhileandseehowwellthatsuitedhim.Makehimfind
somewaytocooldownwhilestaringatthebedthey’dnearlycombustedintoflames
withtheblisteringheatbetweenthem.
Spinningaway,Morgansprintedfartherdownthehall.God,shecouldn’tbelieveshe
wasrunningfromhim,andshe’dberateherselfforthestupidityofthistacticlater.At
themoment,shecouldn’tthinkofanyotherwaytoescapethesteamyseductionofhis
voiceluringhertohersanity’sdoom.Hewantedherdownfall,wasplayinghardballuntil
shesurrenderedeveryounceofherpsycheandcontroltohim.
Nowayinhellshewasdoingthat.
Withacrashoffootsteps,shemadeittothedoorwithJackindeterminedpursuit.
Herhot,tremblingfingersgraspedthecoldbrassoftheknob.Hecrowdedinbehindher,
trappingheragainstthedoor.Hishandclampeddownaroundhersbeforeshecould
twistthedoorknob.
“Areyousureyouwanttogointhere?”Hebreathedhardagainstherneck.
Yes!Thedoorhasalock.Ifshecouldjustgetinside,putthedoorbetweenthem…
Butasshefoughttheshiversbroughtonbyhishotbreath,hisverynearness,Morgan
suddenlyrealizedhehadthekeystoopenthedoor.Damnit!
“Idon’tthinkyoudo,”heansweredforher.
“Isthiswhereyoukeepthedeadbodies?”shesneered,hopingtopisshimoff.
Instead,helaughed,andhiseasyrumblevibratedclearthroughherbody.Evennow,
hewasdeterminedtodefyherunderstandingofbothmeningeneralandhimin
particular.Damn,themancouldbothinfuriateandintrigueher.
“You’dprobablylikethatbetterthanthetruth,”hewarnedwithasilkysmileinhis
voice.“Butkeepgoing,andyou’llfindout.”
Hewasyankingherchain.That’sall.Tryingtoscareher,andshewasn’tbuyingitfor
aminute.
Usingallherbodyweight,Morganlungedback,hopingtothrowhimoffhersoshe
couldopenthedamndoorandgetontheothersideofit.
Witharumbleoflaughterinhischest,Jacksteppedbackamerefraction.“Goin.But
don’tsayIdidn’twarnyou.”
Morganhesitated.Whatifhewasn’tjusttoyingwithher?Whatthehellcouldhebe
hidinghere?Anddidshereallywanttodigherselfinanydeeperthanshewas?
Shakingherhead,shedecidedithadtobeadiversionarytactic.He’drunafterhertoo
hardandstoppedhertooquicklynottohaveanyinterestinkeepingherout.
“Biteme,”shehissed.“Andbackoff.”
Jackjustsmiledasifhedidn’thaveacareintheworldandgesturedforhertostep
inside.
Refusingtoadmitanyapprehensiontowhatshemightfind,Morganyankedonthe
knobandshovedthedooropen.
Andshefrownedassheambledin,somehowbothrelievedandtotallydisappointed
atonce.“Thisisit?”
Shrugging,Jacktriedtopulloffaninnocentexpression.Morganknewbetter.Jack
wasaboutasinnocentasLuciferathishedonisticworst.
“JustalittleofficespacewhereIdopaperworkandkeepacomputer.”
Sheroundedonhim.“Thenwhykeepthedamndoorlocked?Therearenodead
bodies.Tryingtokeepmeawayfromthepreciouspornonyourcomputer?”
“WhywouldIwastetimelookingatpicturesofotherpeoplefuckingwhenIcouldbe
doingitmyself?”Hepacedcloser,slidinghisfingeralongtheslopeofherjaw,then
deviatingcoursetorubthelightlycallousedpadoverherbottomlip.“Withyou.”
Morgansuckedinabreath,unabletolookawayfromthescorchingheatmeltinghis
darkchocolateeyesintosomethingthatepitomizedsin.Shedidn’ttingle.Hiswords
didn’ttightentheknotofneedgrowinginherbellybythesecond.Damnit,no!She
didn’trespondtoamanwhowantedtosubjugateher,tocontrolherwithordersand
ropesanduttersubmissionofherwill.
Shewasn’tdepraved,asAndrewhadhurledtheslurather.Shehadalwaysbeena
“goodgirl,”ashermotherhadraisedhertobe.
“I’mnotsomeblow-updollheretodoyourbidding,oharrogantone.You’re
delusional.”Hervoiceshookasshesaidthewords.
“I’mdetermined,”hecorrected.“Allthatreluctantarousalandthetenderflushthat
lightsupyourbody—it’snothingshortofdelicious.Youfightit,cher,butwhenyougive
in…you’relikehoneytosinkinto.Thickandhotandsodamnsweet.Thosecatchylittle
moansatthebackofyourthroat,theprettywayyoufinallyripplearoundmycockwhen
you’reonthevergeoforgasm…Eventhethoughtofyoulikethatislikefirelicking
throughmyballs.”
“Youjustdon’tknowwhentoshutup,doyou?”
“Sure,Ido.Whenyou’reshovedfullofmycockandareabouttocomesohardyou
screamthewallsdown.”Hesmiled,wicked,taunting—turningherlegstojelly.
Morgandrewinasteadyingbreath,determinedtofindsomeway—God,anyway—to
ignorehim…andthewetnessseepingoutofherclenchingvaginaanddrowningher
thong.
“Dreamon,sweetie.It’snothappening.”
“Youmean,notagain?”heclarified,crossinghisarmsoverhischest.
ItoccurredtoherthenthatJackwasblockingtheexit.Andhisexpressionmadeit
clearshewasn’tgettingawayuntilthey’dhashedthisout.Damntheman!
“Fine.You’veshownthatyou’reanassdeterminedtogetonmynervesandyouhave
somelittlecomputeryouliketolockupforreasonsunknown.NowmovesoIcangetout
ofhere.”
“Actually,IthinkI’veshownI’madominantdeterminedtomakeasubmissivein
denialadmitthatshelikestobetiedandfuckeduntilshecan’tseestraight.Asfor
what’sinhere…”
Hecasthishotgazeacrosstheroom.Itwasn’tuntilthenthatMorgannoticedthe
doorinthecornerhiddeninshadow.
“Ah,youseethedoornow.There’smorebeyondthisspace.”Hedidn’telaborate.On
purpose,sheknew.Hewastestingher.Tantalizingherwiththetruth.Tryingtoarouse
hercuriosityaseasilyashedidherbody.He’ddefinitelysucceededontheformer.Damn
him!Sherefusedtothinkforaninstantaboutthelatter.
“Sothedeadbodiesareinthere?”sheaskedtartly,withabravadoshedidn’treally
feel.
“Somethingmoresinful.”Jackstalkedcloser,theintentinhiseyestohaveher,to
fuckher,blisteringhiseyes.
Sheswallowed.“Staywhereyouare.Don’tcomecloser!”
IntypicalJackfashion,hejustkeptcomingtowardher.Hedidn’tstopuntilhe’d
settledhishandsonherhips,benthisknees,andpressedherwet,achingsexright
againsttheridgeofhiserection.
“Hmm.YourpussyislikesummerinLouisiana,cher.Sultry.Intriguing.Invitingme
tospendthedaylazinginside.”
Morgantriedtostruggleaway—beforethehungergnawingathergobbledupher
goodsense.Alreadythethingshe’ddonetoherinhisbedhauntedher.Shedidn’tdare
giveinagainandmakeleavinghimwhenthetimecameevenmoredifficult.Andshe
wasnolongernaiveenoughtobelievethatbeingwithJackinhiswaywouldcureherof
theforbiddenmidnightdesiresthatmadehersweat.Sheknewnowhe’donlymakeher
wantssharper,moreexplicit.Moreurgent.
“Letgoandleavemealone.”
Jacktookhissweettimeresponding,trailingtheflatofhislargepalmoverherass,
thenliftingherthighabovehiship,andleaningintogiveheranelectricnudgeofhis
cockagainstherachingclit.Thenslowly,hereleasedherandsteppedaway.
Bythen,herbodywasthrummingwithneed,thedesiresoloudinsideher,thefront
rowofaheavymetalconcertwouldbemoresedate.Sheclaspedherhandstostoptheir
trembling.
“Youdon’tgivetheorders,cher.Ido,especiallywhenI’vegotyouallspreadout
acrossmybed.”
Diggingintothepocketofhisjeans,Jackpulledoutasetofkeys,strolledacrossthe
room,andunlockedthedoor.Heflungthedoorwideandsteppedinsidelongenoughto
flipalightswitch.Morgantriedtopeerindiscreetly,butthelightinsidewasdimandredagainstblack
walls.Shecouldn’tseemuch,justlowlightandshadows.Herguttightenedwith
apprehension…anddevastatingcuriosity.
“Throughthatdoor,you’llfindmyplayroom.Inthere,Ihaveeverymeanstorestrain
you,everytooltoarouse,everytoytofuckyou.Youtakeanice,longlookaround,cher,
soyoucandescribeitonyourshow.I’llcomebackinfifteenminutes.Ifyou’restill
here…”Hesmiledandshiftedhisweight,clearlydisplayingthehugebulgepressing
againststrainingdenim.“Let’ssayyou’llgetanupcloseandpersonaltour.”
Jackturnedtoleave.
“AndifI’mgoneinfifteenminutes?”sheblurted.
Hestopped.Theglancehecastheroverhisshouldercouldhavemeltedsteel.“You’ll
justbedelayingtheinevitable,cher.Andit’llcostyou.”
#
Morganstoodstill,trembling.ThedoortoJack’smostprivateroomstoodopennot
twofeetaway.Shewascuriousaboutwhathehadinthere.Godknewshewas.
Yetshehesitated.
Didshewanttoknowthosesecrets?Reallywanttoknow?Havingtheknowledge
wouldhaunther,changeher.Wouldknowingexactlywhathedidinthesefourwalls
makehimandthesexualityhecouldgivehermoreobjectionable?
Ormoreseductive?
Shakingawayherthoughts,Morganknewtheclockwasticking.Jackwouldcome
backinlessthanfifteenminutes.Ifshewasstillstandinginhislair…he’dtakethatasanunequivocalyes—toanything,everything.Theonlyboundariesbetweenthemwouldbe
hisown,coupledwiththelimitsofhisimagination.
Inotherwords,therewouldbenolimits.
Morganswallowedagainstaflushofheat.Regardlessofwhethertheroomandits
contentsmadehermoreafraidorless,shehadtosee,andnotjustoutofcuriosity.
Labelingheremotionsmerejournalisticorfeminineinterestwastoosimple.
Morganhadtoseethatroombecauseitwouldtellheraboutthealluring,mysterious
conundrumnamedJack.
Drawinginashakybreath,shetookatentativesteptowardtheredlightinthecorner
thatdrewherlikeasiren.
Onefootforward.Yes.Thentheother.Repeattheprocess.
Sheernervekepthermoving,coachingherselfwitheachstep.Finally,shestoodatthe
doorandopenedhereyes.Shehadn’tevenrealizedshe’dclosedthem.
Airtumbledoutofherasherjawdropped.Shockpoundedherasshestared.
Thequestionwasn’twhatdidJackhaveinhere.Thequestionwaswhatdidn’the
have.Justfromthedoorway,shefirstsawsomethingthat,withtwohorizontalbars
abouttwofeetapart,lookedabitlikeastandingtowelrack.Butgiventhewristandankle
cuffsattachedtoeachbar,thoselowesttothegroundfairlyfarapart,Morganknew
better.Hadhestoodawomaninthatspot,restrainedherwithlegsspreadand…
FinishingthepicturedisturbedMorgantoomuch.
Sheputherselfinthepictureinstead.Andinstantly,freshmoistureseepedfromher
sex.
Didshehonestlylikethethoughtofbeingrestrainedandtoyedwith?Ofbeinglocked
inplace,helplesstodoanythingbuttakethepleasureorpainJackgaveher?
Yes.
“No,”shewhispered,squeezinghereyesshutagainstamoment’srushofdesire.
Butitwastoolate.
Turningaway,Morganspiedanothertablepositionedlikethecrownjewelrightinthe
centeroftheroom.Wideenoughtoaccommodatesomeonesupine,metalcuffshadbeen
weldedoneachsideatthetop,center,andend.Mostunexpectedly,anothersetof
manaclesfacedoutwardlikegiantpinchersfromthebottomofthetable’slegs,closeto
theground.Shedidn’tneedadegreeinaerodynamicstoseethetablewasdesignedso
hecouldlayawomanflat,immobileandspreadwide.Orbentoverthetablewithlegs
andarmsrestrained.Therewereprobablyotherpositions,butthat’sasfarasher
imaginationcouldtakeher.
Nomatter.ShecouldpictureJackbendinghernakedbodyoverthetable,layingthe
heatofhisbroadchestinplaceasheclaspedherwristsinthecuffs,thenbenttosecure
herankles,hislipstrailingthebacksofherthighsasheroseagaintofitthebroadhead
ofhiserectionagainstherempty,weepingflesh.
Bitingherlip,Morganexhaledraggedlyintothesilence.Herheartbeatthreatenedto
takeover,consumeher,itbeatsohard.Shehadnodoubtthatshe’druinedanother
thongoverafantasysheprayedshewouldn’tenjoyinreallife.
Tearinghermindfromtheimage,shewhirledaroundtofindshelvesfilledwithneat
plasticboxes,allclear.Vibratorsanddildos,madeoutofrubber,plastic,glass,some
thick,somereedslim,someshort,othersthatclearlyintendedtostretchthedepthand
widthofawoman’spassage.AndJackwouldknowwhattodowitheachofthem.The
thoughtstaggeredher,madehersexclenchinhunger.
Onthenextshelfup,anotherorganizedrowofcontainersheldtoysforanalplay,she
guessed.Theytendedtobeshorterwithridgesorbeads,widebases.Oneevenlookedto
inflatewithasmallhandpump.
Flushingallover,MorganrememberedJackfillingherwithoneofthese.Something
slimandridgedandvibratingthathadpushedherbeyondherlimits—rightwhereshe’d
alwaysdreamedshe’dbe.
Thenhe’dlefthertodealwithhershameandself-doubtthenextday.Thesame
shameandself-doubtthatwasstillroilinginhergut.
Morganspunaway.Therowofshelvesnowinfrontofherheldallmannerof
blindfolds,lotions,cuffs,andclamps—alldesignedtoheightenthesenses.
Cinnamonandpeppermintgelsnaredherattention.Shewantedtosniffandtaste,
figureoutwhathedidwiththat.Shedidn’tdare.Afeathersatnexttoasumptuous
silkenblindfoldshestrokedwithatentativefinger.Soft,likecream,liketouchinga
cloud.Morganshivered,imaginingthatnexttoherskin.
Atleastuntilapairofclampscaughtherattention.Tipsencasedinvelvet,separated
byashortlengthofchain,thesecouldonlybelongonawoman’snipples.Thetipsofher
breastshardenedatthethoughtofthempinchinghelpless,sensitivebuds.Withhesitant
fingers,shereachedout,ranafingeroverthelengthofchain,onlytorealizetheclamps
layintheiroriginalpackaging,thesealunbroken.
Sheknewaninsaneurgetotakethem—theonethingsheknewhe’dneverusedon
anotherwoman—andputthemon,paradeherbreastsforhim.He’dapprove…andshow
itinwaysshecouldbarelyfathom.Herfingersitchedasaheavyachethrobbedinher
breasts.Theirtipsstoodhard,burstingagainstthelacybrashewore.
Justonce,avoiceinsideherwhispered.Justthisonething…
That’sdisgusting!Andrew’svoiceinvadedherhead,replayingtheirlastconversation.
Morgan,you’retoosmartandculturedtowantsome…cavemantoorderyouaroundand
tieyoudown.It’ssordidandbizarre.Can’twejusthavesexlikenormalpeople?You’re
notsodepravedthatyouneedpainandsomeonecontrollingyoutogetoff,areyou?
“Threeminutes,”Jackcalledfromthehallinwarning.
Gasping,Morgandraggedherhandbackfromtheclamps.
Whatwasshestilldoinghere?Worse,whatwasshethinking,imaginingmodelinga
devicedesignedtopinchasensitivepartofherbodyforhim?
Stunnedbyherownthoughts,Morganshookherhead.Shecouldhavesexlikea
normalperson,damnit.BeingaroundJackadverselyaffectedherthinking.Shehadto
getoutofthisroom—now.
Stumblingback,Morganchargedforthedoor,leavingthehazyredlightbehind,
racingpasttheofficechairandcomputerinthecorner.
Jackblockedthedoortothehallway,armsacrosshischestandlookingasmoveable
asamountain.“Leaving?”
Hisinscrutableexpressiontoldhernothing.Histonegaveawayevenless.YetMorgan
sensedhisfrustrationanddisappointment.Hisreactioncollidedwithherfear,the
desire,whippingthroughhershewantedsodesperatelytoignore,clashingwith
Andrew’sslursastheyreverberatedinherhead.
Together,ittightenedaviseonherheart,rippingacryfromherthroat.“Letmego.”
Hisbicepstightened,bulgingwithveinedmuscle.Heclenchedhisjaw.Andhestared
sodead-onather,Morgandidn’tknowwhattodoorsay.Hurtflashedinhisgaze,then
disappeared.
Finally,hesteppedaside.
Morganapproachedwithhesitantsteps.Whenshestoodbesidehim,hisstaresilently
demandedthatshemeetit.Sheliftedhergazetohim,hissearing-hoteyesfilledwith
anger,disappointment,lust—andsomethingelseshecouldn’tidentify.Herbreath
caught.Herbellyclenched.Theweightofherbreasts,soachinglyheavy,andhernipples,
sopainfullyhard,screamedather.God,hewastearingherinhalf.Makingherwantwhat
sheknewsheshouldn’t,whatsociety,hermother,herfriends,wouldallscornherfor.
Whatshewasn’tsureshecouldlivewithherselfforaccepting.
“Goaheadandrun,Morgan,”hesaid,voicedisquietingforitssoftness.“Fornow.”
Butthefrighteningtruthlaybetweenthem:Itwouldn’tbelongbeforeshecouldn’t
runanymore.
#
Whatthehellpossessedhimtokeeppursuingawomandeterminedtoshuthimout?
Lyingflatonhisback,staringatthegleamingwoodenceilingandwaitingforthe
comingdawn,Jackgrunted.Possessedhadtobetheoperativeword.Hecouldn’t
possiblybeinhisrightmindtokeepchasingMorgan.He’dalreadyachievedthebiggest
chunkofhisrevenge,andshehadtoldhimwithanoddcombinationoffour-letter
words,tears,anddartingfromhisplayroomlikeachildcaughtinanightmarethatshe
didn’twanttospendanymorenightsinhisbed,underhisdominance.
ButMorganwaslyingtohim—andtoherself.Jackfeltthatdowntothebottomofhis
toes.She’dhadatasteofsubmissionandrespondedsobeautifully…exceptthatlittlebit
ofherselfshewithheld.Still,theknowledgeshe’dgiveninatallwouldhaunther,drivea
wedgebetweenherandBrandon.Butthatwasn’tenoughanymore.Itwouldbesoeasyto
abandonrevengeandfocusonsnaringMorganforhisown.
Butwitheverycryofpassion,everyacceptanceofhisdemands,she’dbeencheating
onamanshewasabouttovowtoloveuntildeathpartedthem.Andhewonderedifshe
couldeverbelongtohim.
BeyondBrandon,therewasareasonshehadn’tsubmittedherselftotally,psyche,free
will,andalltohim.Hehadnoideawhat.ThatbotheredJack—ahellofalot.
Sowhycouldn’thejustacceptMorganactions?She’dcheatedonherfiancé,andhe’d
proventoBrandon—withvideo—thathe’dnailedhisformerpal’swoman.Whycouldn’t
hejustwalkawayfromherandletherrelationshipwithBrandonfallapartonitsown?
Whygettangledupwithanotherwomannotwillingtoreallysubmit,whowaswillingto
breakfaith?
Cursing,somethingvileandsibilant,hescrubbedahandacrosshistiredface.The
truthwas,hewantedMorganmorethanhehatedthefactthatbeencheating.Hewas
determinedtowinherfullsurrender.Whichmadehimastupidass.Andwithevery
passingminute,hefearedhisyearningtopossessherhadtodowiththisstrange
instinctualurgingtoclaimherashisown,notforrevengeorevenagreatsubmissive
fuck,butforemotionshedidn’twanttoidentify.Thatmadehimanevenstupiderass.
Heclenchedhisfistsinsilentfrustration.Itmadenosense,butheneededtogo
beyondendingherengagement,beyondruiningherforBrandon’svanillatouch.He
wasn’tgoingtobecontentuntilshecalledhimsirnaturallyandhe’dusedhisbodyin
everypossiblewaytosatisfyher.Denyingthatwasself-delusionalandpointless.
Washegoingtohavetohearhersaythatshewashistobesatisfied?
Jackrubbedatgrittyeyesassoftgraylightekedintothecottage,heraldingthe
encroachingdawn.Jackknifingup,hesatonthelumpysofawherehe’dspentthe
previous,mostlysleeplessnightandscowled.Hewasn’tsureifheorthesofawereolder,
butitdidn’tmatter.Nodoubttheybothlookedtheiragethismorning.Hecertainlyfelt
his.
ExceptaroundMorgan.Anytimehegotnearher,hefelthornierthanateenager
seeinghisfirstnakedwoman.
He’dhaddozensofwomen,mostofthemeagertoplease.Hell,hecouldfindonein
thenexthour,ifhewanted.Sowhywouldhekeepafterawomanwhoclaimedshewasn’t
interested?
Sighing,Jackrosetohisfeet,ambledtothekitchen,andmadeapotofcoffee.A
glanceoverhisshouldershowedthatthedoortothebedroomwasstillclosed.No
surprisethere.TheonlysurprisewashowbadlyhewantedMorgantoflingitopenand
invitehimin.
He’dliketobelievethatthechallengeshepresentedgoadedhimintopursuingher.
Anaffronttohismanlyprideandallthat.Buthe’dbeenturneddownbefore,acceptedit
withashrug,andmovedon.
Thatdidn’tseempossiblewithher.Lastnightasdarknessfell,hiscockroseandthe
raspberry-spicescentofMorganfloodedhissenses—andstrangledhisrestraint.Ifshe
hadn’talreadybeensoundlyasleepbythetimehebargedintothebedroomandhertart
refusalshadn’tbeenringinginhishead,Jackwasn’tsurewhathewouldhavedone.
WhereMorganwasconcerned,he’dmadeanassoutofhimselfduringDeke’svisit.
Noneedtorepeathisstupidity.Hehadtogetcontrolofhimselfbeforeheapproached
heragain.
Graspinghiscoffeecupinonehand,Jackshuffledoutside,ontothecottage’swrap-
aroundporch.Thesunpeekedgoldenfingersovertheshadowydomainofthecypress
treesandSpanishmoss.Sittingonachairinthecorner,hebreathedintheheavysmell
ofvegetation,richearth,water,andwildlife.Andsomethingspicythatepitomized
Louisiana.That’swhyheloveditouthere,whyhe’dboughttheoldplacefromBrice
whenhisgrandfatherhadgottentoooldtoseetoitsupkeepandtobesofarfroma
hospital.Butheknewhisgrandfathermissedthesiltyswampmornings,completewith
beignetsandbullshit.
Theoldmanwasacharacter,fullofcolorfulstories.Andofcoursethefamilylegend.
Jacksnorted.AccordingtoGrand-pere,everymaleonhismother’ssideofthefamily
dreamedofthewomanmeanttocompletethem,behissoulmate,beforemeetingher.
Supposedlyoneofhislong-deadancestorsmadethemistakeofmarryingthewrong
womanandfoundhistruelovetoolate.Asthelegendwent,themanpaidaVoodoo
priestessto“curse”allhismaledescendants.
Jackfrowned.He’dbeencertainBricehadmadetheentiretaleuptoexplainwhy,at
twenty-four,he’delopedwithagirlofsixteen.Now,Jackdidn’tknowwhattothink.His
grandfatherbelievedit.OnceBricehadlearnedthatJackhadnotdreamedaboutKayla
beforemarryingher,hisgrandfatherhadneveracceptedher.Nevertreatedherlike
family.Saidshedidn’tsuithim.Hell,hehadn’tevenattendedhisonlygrandson’s
wedding.Asilentprotest,Jackknew.Thehellofitwas,Bricehadbeenright;heand
Kaylahadn’tbeensuitedintheleast.
ButBriceseemedonlytooeagertothrowMorganathim…
Sighing,Jackshovedhisthoughtsaway.Ithardlymattered.Thelegendwas
ridiculous.Itcouldn’tbeanythingbutbullshit.Ithadnologic.Hedidn’tdohocus-
pocus.
Still…itwouldexplainwhyhewantedMorganforhisownsobadlyhisteethhurt
Anoisetohisleftalertedhimtothefacthewasnolongeralone.Morganemerged
throughthescreendoor,intothehazymorning.Goldensunlightbrokethroughthefog
asshesteppedintothemorningbreeze.Thepureraysslantedinbrightswathsacross
theswamptosettleonherasshestrolledtothecorneroftherailing,clearlyunaware
thathewatchedher.
Softsunlightlitupherfierytressesastheytumbledoverhershoulders,anddown
herback.Sheworeafadedbrownshirt.Hisshirt.
Jackfrowned.He’dseenthisscenebefore.Itwasoddlyfamiliar,buthow?The
memorieswerevague,asifhe’dseenthisalongtimeagoorinadream—
Thatwasit,andithadn’tbeenjustanydream.Thedream.Theonehe’dbeenseeing
nearlyeverynightinhissleepforthelastsixmonths.
Holyhell.
Ashesuckedinastunnedbreath,electricshockarcedthroughJack.Timestoppedas
hewaited.
Morgantiltedherheadandgazedoutovertheswamp…asthevisionhadinhis
dream.
Fiercelust,aheart-wrenchingache,pureapprehension,aneedhecouldn’texplain.
Everythingtrippedthroughhimlikealivewire,joltinghimfromfingertipstotoes.What
thehellwashappeningtohim?
AliftedcornerofMorgan’smouthseemedtohintatasmile.Fromhisangle,the
expressionlookedhappy,andtheneedtoseeherlikethat—utterly,sublimelyhappy—
kickedhimintheteeth.
Damn.Herfeelingsshouldn’tmakeadamnbitofdifferencetohim.Inafewdays,a
weekatmost,heandDekewouldlikelyhavesolvedhercaseandshe’dbegone.Ifhedid
thingsright,herengagementtoBrandonwouldbeover,too.
Butthatwouldn’tmakeMorganhis.
JackgrittedhisteethashewatchedMorganshift,leanoverthenearestrail.
Theveilofmysterythathadalwaysenshroudedthewomaninhisdreamssuddenly
fellaway.Heknewherface,herquicktemper,thepassionshetriedtoleashunder
misplacedmodesty,herunexpectedcourageandsharptongue.Buthestillwantedtosee
her.
Turnaround!hesilentlydemanded.
Asifshewassoattunedtohimthatsheheard,sheslowlybegantoturnhisway.A
delicateear,agracefulneck,astubbornslopetoherjaw,lushmouthtwistedinaneffort
toholdbackthetearsdrenchingherstormyblueeyes.
Andinthatmoment,JackknewthathewantedMorganmorethananythingelse—
revenge,riches,power.Thiswomanhadsomehowzoomedtothetopofhislist.
Morgangaspedwhenshesawhim.“I—Ididn’tknowyou…”Herbreathinghitched.
“Sorry.”
Sheturnedanddartedforthecottage.
Jackboundedoutofhisseat,wrappedhisarmsaroundher,andturnedhertoface
him.
Mine!
Theinstanthetouchedher,thatfeelingsanginhisblood,settleddeepintohisbones.
Atthemoment,hecouldn’tfightitanddidn’ttry.
Mine!
Everythinginhisguttoldhimnottolethergetaway.
Ever.
Whensheburiedherchininherchest,hehookedafingerunderherchinandlifted
herfacetohis.Thepaintherejabbedintohisgut.
“Cher,”hewhispered.“Mondouceamour.”
Mysweetlove?God,hewassofargone.
Shepressedherlipstogether,blinking,valiantlystoppinghertears.“Ihavenoidea
whatyou’resaying.ProbablythatI’manidiot.”Sheletlooseasad,waterylaugh.“Which
fits.Iamanidiot.”
“No.IdiotinFrenchdoesn’tsoundmuchdifferent.You’dbeabletopickthatup.”
“Goodtoknow,”shechoked,tryingtobreakaway.“Ineedto…Letmego.”
AninstinctscreamedatJackthatthatwouldbetheworstthinghecoulddo.He
didn’tfightthatgutfeeling.“Jamais.”
Never.Thewordechoedinhishead.
Hehadtobeoutofhismind,becausehe’dneverreactedsostronglytoawoman
Neverwantedtoholdherclosefor…well,forever.Buthecouldn’texaminethefeeling
now,notwhenshewasstilltryingtopullaway,excepttoknowitwasnonnegotiable..
Instead,JackanchoredhispalmonhernapeandbroughtMorganagainsthim.
“You’renotanidiot.You’reachallenge.You’vegotasaucymouththatmakesmecrazy.I
can’tdecideifIshouldspankyou,laugh,orgetyouunderneathmesoallthatfirecan
blistermeasIsinkdeepintoyou.”
“Jack…”Hervoiceheldapleadingnote.“Ican’t…I’mnotmadeforwhatyouhave
behindthatlockeddoor.Ican’thandle…”
Herstammeringuncertaintyshreddedhiscomposureandresolve.Thewayhe’d
rushedherintofacinghersexualityhaddisturbedher,displacedherbeliefsabout
herself.Shewasstilltryingtoassimilate.Heshouldn’trushhermore.Notnow.Orhe’d
risklosingher.
Notlosingherwasmoreimportantthanhisnextbreath.Definitelymoreimportant
thanrevenge.
“Shh.Wedon’thavetotalkabouttheplayroomnow.Ijustwantakiss,cher.Imissed
holdingyoulastnight.”
Thetearsinhereyesoverflowed,spillingdownhercheeks.Thesightofitwrenched
atJack’sgutashewipedthemawaywithhisthumbs.
“Don’tsaythat.”
“I’mbeinghonest,”hewhisperedagainsthermouth.“Didyoumissme,too?”
“Itmakesnosense,”sheconfessedwithanod,thenbitherlipasiftokeepintherest
ofherfeelings.“Ican’tdo—can’tbe—whatyouwant.”
Jackknewbetter.Knewit.Andhe’dproveittoher.
“Ididn’tknowwhathalfofthat…equipmentwas,”sheadded.
“Andthat,alongwithmissingme,madeyoufeellikeanidiot.”Hetriedtosmile
softly,triedtoreassure.Heranswersureelatedthehelloutofhim.“Tsk.I’mamuch
biggeridiotthanyou.Ididn’tjustmissyou,Iachedtoholdyou.Iburnedtotouchyou,
inanywayyou’dletme.Withorwithouttoys.”
Thatneedinsidehimwasrising,amplifying,drowningoutallelse,includinggood
sense.Hishandtightenedaroundherneck,fingerstanglinginherhair.Normally,his
self-controlwasanywherebetweenstellarandlegendary.WithMorgan…resistinga
womanhewantedthisbadseemednotjustpointless,butfuckingimpossible.
Slantinghismouthoverthesoftpillowsofherlips,instinctchargedthroughJack.
Withabarelyleashedpassion,healternatelydemandedandpleadedhiswayinside,
coaxinghermouthopen,relievedandrevvedwhenshelethimintostealbothher
objectionsandherbreath.
Heclaimedher,pouringtheneedblazingthroughhisgutandfiringhissoulintothe
kiss.Justtouchingherdruggedhim.Cradlingherfaceinhishands,Jackwasamazed
anewbythesilkenwarmthofherskin.Theraspberryscentofhernearlydrovehimout
ofhishead.
Thesweettasteofherkisshithim.Cinnamonsugar,hotsilk,femalewant.Jacksank
intohermouth,heressence.Witheverybreath,hetastedherconfusedpassionand
reluctantneed.Jackdovedeeperstillintohermouth,determinedtolapupeverybitof
herdoubtandwarmthanduncertaintyhecouldandgiveitbacktoherinreassurance
anddevotion.Withpurposefulsweepsthroughhermouthandsoftnibblesonherlower
lip,hefedheratasteofhisgreedylust,anddeclaredhisdeterminationtogetherclose
andkeepherthere.
Inhisarms,herbreathcaught.Sheclaspedhimtight,pressingherbreastsagainst
him.Thetearsdrenchinghercheeksmoistenedhisownface,kick-startinghisheartall
overagain.
Jackworkedahandthroughhersilkytressesoffireandkissedahotpathacrossher
jaw,workinghiswaytoherear.
“I…Oh,Jack!Ican’tbewhatyouwant.”
“Youalreadyare.”Henibbledonherlobe.Beneaththeonslaughtofhislips,
Morgan’sbreathingpickedupspeed.Herheartbeatpoundedatthebaseofherneck,
chuggingwitharousal.Hecoveredthespotwithhismouth,lavingitwithhistongue.She
rewardedhimwithamoan,archingherthroattohimininvitation.
Jackcouldsmellthedesireonhernow,couldtellshewaswet.Therealizationmade
himhardashell.Sohard,itwasasifhehadn’tbeenballsdeepinherinweeksor
months.
Utterly,sublimelycrazy.
Pullingherintotheunyieldingironofhiserection,Jackgroaned.He’dintendedto
wait,wooher,cajoleher.No.Hehadtogetinsideofher.Anythinglesswasn’tanoption.
Heneededtofeelthehotgripofhersweetpussyclosingaroundhiscockashe
swallowedhercrieswithhismouth.Hehadtoseehersubmissioninthesofteningofher
body,theloweringofhergaze,theinvitationofhercreamingslit.
Withasingleyank,herippedthetailsoftheshirtcoveringherapart,halfwaydown
herbelly.Jackpot!Herfirm,palebreastsbathedingoldenlightbeckonedhim.Jack
didn’tfightit.Instead,hebentandcapturedonepuckerednippleinhismouth,sucking
hardandstrong,
Morgangasped.Butshearchedtohim,silentlyencouraginghim.Shetangledher
fingersinhishairtoanchorhim.Noneed;hewasn’tgoinganywhereanytimesoon.With
hisotherhand,hesqueezedtheplumptipofherotherbreast,turning,plucking
“Yes!”
Helovedherresponsivecry,butwithanipofhisteethacrosshersensitiveflesh,he
remindedherofherlapse.
“Yes,sir,”shecorrected.
“Parfaite,”hesaid,rewardingherbylavinghistongueacrosstherapidly-swelling
nubs.“Sofuckingperfect.”
Jackmovedhisfingersonherturgidlittlenipples.Damn,hewashungryforanother
tasteofthem.Buttheman,thedominantinhim,cravedsomethingelseevenmore.She
smelledlikeheaven,gotwetforhiminaheartbeat.He’dbetmoneyshetastedofpure
wickeddelight.
“Sitontherailing,Morgan.”
Withonlyahintofreluctance,shehoppeduponthewoodenedgeofthewraparound
porch.Logictoldhimnottopushher.Buthisneedwouldn’tallowhimtobackaway.
Hereachedaroundwithalightstingingslaptoherass.“Whodoyouobey?”
Confusionandyearningclashedinhertear-drenchedblueeyes.Morganwas
strugglingtoprocesstheneedsofherbody,alignthemwithherindependentstreak.She
wasover-thinkingthings…butthatwasMorgan.
Usinghisotherhand,heslappedtheothercheekofherbackside.
“You,sir.”
Atleastshehadn’tdeniedit.Ifshehad…Jackthoughthemighthavegoneoutofhis
fuckingmind.Asitwas,hiscontrolslippedasdangerousdeterminationtodriveMorgan
tosweating,screamingorgasmslammedintohim.
Withagrunt,hetoretherestoftheshirtMorganworeapart,exposingeverydelicate,
palecurveofherbody.Excellent,nopanties.Thewet,pinkfoldsofhersexwerecovered
byathindustingofhair.Buthewantedtoseemore.Neededto.
Withahandatherbacktosteadyher,Jackspreadherlegswidewiththeother.A
quickglancedowntoldhimshewasdrenchedinhercream.Yes!Herslickfoldsswelling
andflushingpinkwitheachpassingmoment.Gorgeous.
Mine!theinstinctivebeastinhimsnarledsilently.
“Steadyyourself,”heordered,placingherhandsontheedgeoftherailoneitherside
ofherhips.
“Sir?”
“Youdon’tquestion,Morgan,”hegrowled.“YoutakewhatIgiveyou.YoudowhatI
say.YoucomewhenItellyou.”
“We’reoutdoors.Ifanyonecamebyinaboat,they…theywouldseeus.”Sheeased
herlegsclosed.
“We’reinthemiddleofnowhere,butthat’sirrelevant.Yourwell-beingismyconcern.
Iwillkeepyousafe.Putyourtrustandyourbodyinmycare.Canyoudothat?”
Morganwantedto.Jackcouldseetheneedinherturbulentblueeyesconflictingwith
hermodestyinheranxiousexpression.Itwasn’tlackoftrustinhim…butherself.
“Nothingbadwillhappen,”heassuredher.“Letmetakeover.”
Araggedbreathandalongpauselater,shesenthimanunsteadynod.
Itwasallhecoulddonottoletoutawhoopanddevourheronthespot.She’dsaid
yes,notbecausehe’dsurprisedherortauntedherintoit.She’dsimplysaidyes.Tohim.
“Good.Steadyyourself.Spreadyourlegsforme.”
Withtremblinghands,Morganaccededtohisdemands,leaningbacktobraceher
handsontherail.Slowly,sodamnslowly,shedrewherthighsapartagain.
Fuckingbeautiful.Perfect.
Mine!
Jackdroppedtohiskneesandkissedtheinsidesofeachofherthighs.Herbreath
hitched,bodytensed.Withasmoothglideofhispalmsupherthighs,heheldherstill,
anchoredherhipstotherailing.Thenhejuststared,breathingintheaddictingmusky-
sweetscentofher.Shewasallblushing,slickflesh,andtremblinglimbs.
IttookeveryounceofJack’sself-controlnottodiveintoherlikeanall-you-can-eat
buffet.Hewantedtotastehereverywhere,alongtheglisteningfoldshidingherdeepest
secrets,uphighwhereherclitplayedhide-and-seekunderitsdelicatehood,insidethe
hot,tightchannelthatheldhercream.
“Showmewhereyouliketobelicked.Pointforme,”hedemanded,alreadyknowing
andplanningtosavethatdestinationforlast.
“I…Idon’tknow.Anywhere.”
“Noonehasevermadeyoucomethisway.”Jackdidn’tmakeitaquestion.Hewas
prettysureheknewtheanswer.
Morganshookherhead.
Amazing.AnotherintimateacthewouldbefirsttointroduceMorganto.The
exhilaratingthoughtwentstraighttohiscock.Waseveryguyshe’ddatedaeunuch?He
lovedthis,theintimatetaste,theimmediacyofknowingexactlywhichtouchaffecteda
womanmost.Noquickerwaytomakeherputty,tomakeherbeg.
Tomakeherhis.
Jackdroppedhisgazetoherswollensex.Maybe…maybehecouldcoaxhertoconnect
himandpleasuretogetherinhermind.Thatalonewouldn’tbeenoughtokeepher,but
itwouldbeastart.Theresthe’dworkouthourbyhour,daybyday,untilsheagreednot
justtoleaveBrandonbuttobecomehis.
“You’regoingtocomeforme,Morgan.ButnotuntilItellyouto.Understood?”
“Yes,sir.”
Herbreathy,perfectreplymadehiscocktightentothepointofdistraction.Soon…
“Mabelle,sidouce,”hebreathedoverherclit.“Sweet,beautifulwoman.”
#
Morgan’sheartracedasshestareddownhermostlynakedbodyandsawJack
kneelingbetweenhershakingthighs.Thewantcoursingthroughhermadeherlimbs
feelheavy,herheadfeellight.Hersexclenched,ached.Somethingwasdifferentabout
Jack’stouch;somethingbetweenthetwoofthem.God,whatwashappeningtoher?She
swallowedagainstawhimperofneed.
Hegrippedherthighs,pushingthemwider,exposingherevenmore.Then,withhis
thumbs,openedhersextohisgaze.
Trembling,Morganhadneverfeltmorevulnerable—oraroused.Shedripped,arched
tohim,heldherbreath,waited.Jackcouldhavenodoubtthatsherespondedtohis
demands,tothewayheforcedherlegsapart,thenstaredathersexasifheintendedto
eatitlikearipepeach.
Sanity—wherewasit?Shewassupposedtobeengaged,forheaven’ssake.Shewas
notsupposedtolikehisroughbrandofdomination.Shewasn’tthedepravedwoman
Andrewhadaccusedherofbeing.Shedidn’tevenknowwhyashamefulpartofher
thrilledtoJack’sorders.
Thechillymorningbreezesweptoverherskin,butinsteadofwishingforcover,the
contrastofthecoolaironherheatedbodythrilledher.
“Ilovehowwetyouareforme.Ifeelyourthighstremble.Iseeallthefoldsofyour
cuntswelling,cher.”
Shesqueezedhereyesshut,unabletojustletgoandenjoy.“No.”
Inresponse,Jackmerelydraggedhisthumboverherclit.Ithardenedintoapulsing
knotofpureneed.
Adenialmighthavefallenfromherlips,butherbodywasbetrayingher.Overand
over.She’dneverrespondedtoanyonethewayshedidforJack,flushing,aching,
complyingwithwhateverhewanted.Shakingwiththeneedformore.
Theknowledgeofeverythinghekeptinhisplayroom,itemsshe’donlyvaguelyheard
ofandfantasizedabout,alljustdownthehall.Allwithinthegraspofamanwhosurely
knewhowtouseeachwithdevastatingskill.
“Nowhat?”hetaunted.“No,don’tmakeyoufeelgood?No,don’tfuckyouinevery
wayIcanthinkof,untilyou’vecomesomanytimesyourbodyislimpfromthepleasure?
Isthatwhatyou’resayingnoto?”
Hiswordsandtheelectricallysexualimagestheyconjuredupbombardedherbrain,
dentingherresistancelikethehoodofacarinavicioushailstorm.ButMorganknewif
sheletgo,Jackwouldjustintroducehertoonemoretouchtocravelater,onemore
amazingsensationtoheatupshamefulmidnightfantasiesaftertheyparted.
“Orareyoutellingyourselfno?”hemurmured,hislipsbrushingoverthetopofher
cleft,solightyetchargingherwithawickedzingthatseemedtofistaroundhersexand
squeeze.“Areyouhopingtodenyhowgooditwillfeeltohavemytongueinyour
pleasure-soakedpussy?”
Yes!Damn,shehadtobeastransparentasplasticwrapforhimtoreadhersoeasily.
Forcinghereyesopen,shegazeddownathim—justintimetoseehistonguedive
betweenherfolds.Thesightofhiscallousedhandscradlingthedelicatefleshinsideher
thighs,hisskinmanytimesdarkerthanherown,joltedherwithapuredesirethat
sizzledupanddownherspineandexplodedinherbelly.
Godhelpher.
Onthatthought,thewetheatofhismouthcoveredher.Moltenpleasureburstinside
herashelickedfromslittoclit,thenswirledhistonguearoundherasiftryingtolapuphercream.
“Cher,you’relikeatreat.”
Hisvoicesoundedraspyandrough,halfgruntandhalfgroan.Itdugpasther
defenses,scrapingatwhatlittleresolveshehadleft.
Helickedherinthesamemanneragain,onlythistimehungrier.Itwasn’tan
exploratorystrokeofhistonguenow;itwasaveraciousdemand.Withagrowl,hedrew
herclitbetweenhislipsandsucked.
Shegasped,once,twice—everytimehepulledonthesensitivebud.Theprotests
swimminginherheaddrownedinthefaceofherbody’sdemands.Theexquisitetorture
ofhismouthdroveherbeyondherinbreddecorum.Desperateformoreofhistouch,for
him,shearched,clawingthesmoothwoodenrailing,andsilentlybeggingbyspreading
herlegsevenwider.
“Verypretty,”hecomplimented,voiceraspyandmidnightraw.“Andsosweet.”
Histongueinvadedherchannelashisthumbpresseddownonherclit.Thepleasure
convergedsohardandfastbetweenherlegs,itwasalmostpainful.Shefeltherownfolds
swellingwithneed,makingherfleshsensitivetoeachdipandswirlofhistongue.The
Februarybreezewhippingoverherdiamond-hardnipplesdidnothingtocoolher.
Jackcontinuedhisfeast,hismoansofappreciationringinginherears.Themorehe
ateather,thewettershegot.
Thenhestopped.
“Ifyouwantmetogoon,invitemetotastemore.”Henibbledatherthigh.“Tellme
youwanttocomeonmytongue.”
Morganpressedherlipstogethertoholdthewordsin.Buteverythingbetweenher
legsached,throbbedintimewithherrunawayheartbeat.Everymoleculeinherbody
strainedtowardwhatJackwantedtogiveher.Whythehellwassheresistingsuch
amazingpleasure?Alittletaintedmodestyandtheriskofabitofhumiliationseemed
likeasmallpricetopayforsuchstunningsensations.
Evenmore,thehot,eagerexpressiononhisfaceslammedherwiththeneedtogive
in.Itwasn’ttender.Hewasn’tinterestedinheartsandflowers.Thewildintensityofhis
darkeyesinthemorning’sgoldenlighttoldherhewantedmore.Wantedtopossessher.
Onhisfacewashisfiercedesiretointroducehertoeverywantonsensationshe’dever
ponderedandforcehertoreserveherreactionsexclusivelyforhim.
Theoutrageousnotionofbelongingtohim,ofputtingherbodysolelyinhiscareand
allowinghimanythinghewanted—theywanted—droveherpastherlimits.
Asbadlyasapartofhermindpushedhertosayno,everythingelseinsideher
yearnedwithexquisitepaintosayyes.
“Tasteme.”Everywhisperedsyllabletrembled.“Sir.”
Morganknewshewastakingagiantstepthatshecouldn’ttakeback.Shewas
agreeingtocommitsinsthatwouldhaunther.Jackwasreplacingherscrupleswithpure,
white-hotneedshecouldnolongerdeny.Tantalizingherwiththeideaofbeinghisto
command.
Aviolentwhipofblisteringvictorystormedacrosshisface.“And?”
“I…Iwantto…”Sheswallowed,panted,tryingtofindthecourageandtheair
necessarytogoon.
Jackcircledafingeraroundthesmallopeningofhersex,scoopedupdropsofher
cream,andmassageditoverherclit.Fireshotstraightinsideherandburstinherbelly.
God,shecouldn’ttakemorestimulation.Alreadyontherazor’sedgeofsanity,of
losingcontrolofherbody,Morgangasped.Needtightenedinhercore.Bloodraced.
Thoughtsvanished.
Jackreducedherdowntoherprimalanimalelement.She’dalwaysfantasizedabout
suchastatebutbelievedittobeimpossible.Notso.Beforeherkneltasexymanwho
shouldhavebeenastranger.Buthesaweveryhidden,sinfulwishinsideher.Henotonly
understoodthem,buthecouldgrantthem—andmakeherfeelperfectlywonderfulboth
insideandoutwhiledoingit.
“Iwanttocomeonyourtongue,”sheblurted.
“Perfect,cher.”Herewardedherbylappingoffthedropsoffreshcreamfromherclit.
“Suchagoodgirl,withsuchasweetpussy.I’mgoingtogiveyouwhatyouwant.”
CHAPTERTEN
Morganlookednothingshortofmagnificent.Theemergingmorningsunsplashed
goldenlightacrossthepalepurityofherskin,illuminatingeveryoneofhersexy
cinnamonfreckles.Intriguingshadowsdancedinthedipsandswellsofherluscious
body,tantalizinghimtoleaninforanup-closelook.Forapersonaltaste.
Jackwasalltoohappytoheedthecall.Hertremblingadmissionechoedinhishead,
spurringhimtoclutchherthighs,spreadthemevenwiderandlicktheglossypinkflesh
infrontofhim.
God,shewaslikeadrug.Everypartofherhadsomenewexoticscentorflavor.The
crookofhernecksmelledlikeripewomanwithahintofraspberries.Hermouthsoaked
himwithanaddictingcinnamonsugartaste.Butherpussy…Delicate,sweet,clean
musk.Ah,shetastedlikethewantcoursinginsideher.Unique,enthralling.Hecould
spendthemorninghere,lappingather,andstillbecompelledtotasteheragaininan
efforttofigureoutjustwhatitwasaboutherthatsotemptedhistongue.
Herraggedinhalationcaughthisattention.Morgan’sthighstensedinhisgrasp.He
smiledagainsthersex,thenworkedhistongueabouthervulva,lavinghercliteverynow
andthen.Nosteadypressure…justenoughtotakeherhigherandhigher.Then,ashe
workedinonefingerandteasedherinnerwalls,shetrembled.
Freshcreampouredfromher.Aflushroseonherskinasshethrewherheadback,
legstrembling.Hersexswelledevenmore.Morgandughershortnailsintotheaging
woodoftherailingandmoaned.
Idly,Jackwonderedhowlonghecouldkeepherhere,rightontheedge,feelingthe
sharp,sweetacheofimpendingclimax…withoutlettingherfallover.Theideaof
reducinghertoincoherentbeggingheldappeal.Notbecausehe’dneverheardawoman
beg.Hehad—frequently.ButMorganandherinbredgood-girlmodestylithimuplikea
matchtokerosene.Andwhenhedroveherpastherinhibitions,shetookbothofthem
upintheflames.Evennow,thethickerectionpresseduncomfortablyagainsthisjeans,
growlingfortheattentionofthesyrupy,sugaryfleshunderhistongue.
“Jack,”shepanted.“Sir…”
Evenhervoicetrembled,signalingthatherorgasmwasrisinguphotandfastinside
her.Hesmiled,easingbackfromthehardknotofherclittofocusontheswollenlips
cuppinghisfinger.
“Cher?”hereturnedlazily,swallowingagainstalumpoflustthreateningtounravel
him.
Beforeshecouldanswer,hethrustaseconddigitinsideher.Heropen-mouthedgasp
toreacrosstheporch,acrosstheopenswamp.
Eyessqueezedtightlyshut,Morgansaidnothing.Shefocusedonpleasure—exactly
likehewantedherto.
Jackbeganeasinghisfingersfromhertightchannel.Shemurmuredaprotest,buthe
knewshereallymeantitwhenherbodydiditsbesttoclampdownonthedigits,cling,
andsuckhimbackin.God,nowondersheshreddedhiscontrolsofastwhenhehadhis
cockinsideher.
Shovingtheobservationaside,hewithdrewhishandfromthedamphumidityofher
sex.Hisfingersallbutdrippedwithhercream.Thesightandscentwentstraighttohis
head,likepuregrainalcohol,kickinghislibidointofullgear.Hetampeddowntheurge
toshovehispantstohiskneesandthrustdeepinsideher.
Instead,heliftedhisfingersovertherosybeadsofhernipplesandcoatedthemwith
herownjuice.Thewindwhippedacrossherbody,tighteningthetipsofherbreastseven
more,untiltheystoodlongandthickandsodamntempting,hecouldn’tresistfor
anothersecondtastingthem.
Seizingherhips,Jackfitheragainsttheridgeofhiscock.Frothingwithgreedand
glee,helovedthatfornow,inthismoment,sheandeverylittlegasp,blush,andmoan
wereallhis.
Slowly,heclosedhismouthoveroneofthosenipplesthathadhimsalivatingwith
anticipation.Hmm.Raspberriesandmusktogether.Velvet-softskinoverdeliciously
hardnubsbeggingtobesucked,nibbled,clamped.
Helappedather,lavingandbiting,lavishingattentiononhernipplesuntilthey
swelledinhismouth.Ifherhitchingbreathhadn’tindicatedthetruth,aquickcaress
fromhisfreehandtoldJackshewasaswetasever.Theknowledge—thewomanherself
—calledhimlikeasiren.Therewasnoresisting.
Heforcedapairoffingersinsidehersultrydepthsagain,thenswipedathumbover
herclit.Amazingly,shetightenedonhisfingersimmediately,clampingdown,beginning
toripplewiththecomingexplosion.
SatisfactionswelledinJackasheshiftedhisattentiontoherothernippleand
envelopeditinthehotcavernofhismouth.Hecouldn’twaittofeelthemagnitudeof
thisclimax.Andevenbetter,he’dbetshewasnearlywillingtobegforit.
Takingonelastsharpnipatherrock-hardnipple,Jackkissedhiswayupherchestto
nuzzleherneck.Hisfingersplayedwiththatsensitivespotinherchannel,justbehind
herclit,whilehisthumbstrummedthehardlittlebuttoninanunhurriedrhythm
Thoughhewonderedifhe’deverfeelthebloodinhisfingersagain,satisfactionpoured
throughhimwhenshetightenedonhisfingersoncemore.
“Cher,”hewhisperedinherear.“Whatdoyouwant?”
“Now,”shepantedasherubbedthepadsofhisfingersrightacrossthatsweetspot
insideher.“God,please.Ineed…”
“Metostop?”
“No.No,sir!”Hervoicecamefast,hard,inbetweenbreathlesssighs.
Colorbloomedinhercheeks,andthesunshineraineddownonherfairskinuntilshe
lookedlikeshewasglowing.
Godhelpher,becauseJackhadeveryintentionoftakingher,notjusttohisbed,but
tohisplayroomanddrivingherupandoversosweetlyandsooftenthatshewouldhave
nomorequalmsaboutpleadingforwhatshewantedandturningtohimwhenshe
neededit.
Asavageboltoflustlurchedthroughhiscockatthethoughthecouldsucceed,that
shewouldsurrenderherbody,hermind,andherwillexclusivelytohim.Thethought
arousedhimlikenothingeverhad.
“Tellmewhatyouneed,”hemurmuredintoherear.“Yourememberwhattosay.”
“Iwanttocomeonyourtongue.Please,sir.”Shegraspedhisshoulders,nailsdigging
intohisfleshwiththeurgencyofherneed.“Please.”
“Youbegsweetly,cher.HowcanIresist?”
Herfranticfingersfilteredintohishairandshegripped,littledartsofpainexploding
acrosshisscalp.Godhelpherwhenhefinallygotherunderhim.Hewasgoingtopound
intoherwiththeferocityofajackhammer,mercilesslyplyingthatsweetpussywithhis
cockuntilshecameoverandover—andtookhimwithher.
“Now!”
Hervoicetookonapanickednote.Hersexgrippedhisfingerssotightlyhecould
hardlymovethem.Shedangledattheedgeofthecliff.Andshe’dbeenthereawhile,
longenoughforherbodytopushpasthermind.
“Demandingminx,”heteasedashenippedatherearlobeandscratchedatthe
sensitivepointinsideherclaspingpussy.“IpromisedI’dgiveyouwhatyouwant.OnceI
have,you’regoingtofollowmeintotheplayroomsoIcanbind,clamp,andfuckyouany
wayIplease,aren’tyou?”
“Yes,”shesobbed.“Yes,sir!”
“Goodgirl.I’mgoingtobendyouovermytableandtakeyourhotlittlepussyover
andover.You’lllearntobegreadilyandcomeoncommand,cher.Then,”hebreathed
againstherskinashebegantravelingdownthebodyinaseriesofcaressesandbiting
kisses,“I’mgoingtoopenthatprettyassofyourstomycockandsettleinforanice,longride.”
Hewhisperedthewordsrightagainstherclit.Astrangledmoanescapedher.The
musclesofherthighsclenched,trembled.Theslickheavenofhersexstrangledhis
fingers.Herhands,stillinhishair,tightenedintodesperatefists.
Perfect.Likeafantasy.Morganrespondedtohistouch,tohiswicked,whispered
suggestionsexactlyashedreamed.Oncehepushedherpastherinhibitions,delving
beyondherconsciousmindintoheruntappedsexuality,awealthofsweet,mind-blowing
submissionbelongedtothemanwhocouldmasterher.
Itwasasifshe’dbeenwaitingjustforhim.
Thethoughtchargedthroughhiscocklikealivewire.
“Comeforme,”hedemandedagainsthercream-drenchedpussy.
Quickly,heextractedhisfingersfromherandrakedthemoverherclit.Inthenext
heartbeat,heshovedhistongueinsideherripplingchannel,reachingwiththetipto
manipulatethesensitivespotinside.
Sheexplodedwithascreamthatechoedacrosstheswamp.Withthetightgripofher
fistsinhishair,shepushedhisfaceagainsther,intoher.Freshcreamgushedintohis
mouth,andhelappedathergreedily,triumphandadesperateurgetogetinsideher,
commandher,clawedathim.Needclamored.
Takeher.Claimher.She’syours.
Yeah,andwhatwouldBrandonsayaboutthat?WhatwouldMorganherselfsay?He
hopedshewouldsayyes,becauseforonceinhislife,hedidn’twanttojustbesomeone’s
goodfuck.Hewantedeverytouchtomeansomething.
Whyher?Whynow?Whathadhappenedtothedriveforrevengethatonceglowed
redhot,likefiredmetal,downinmygut?
Jackfrownedagainstthethought.
Longmomentslater,theclaspingofhersexeasedaroundhistongue.Herfistsslowly
uncurled.Jacktookalast,longinglickofher,promisinghimselfmorelaterandroseto
hisfeet.Shelookeddazedandflushedandshockedbyherownresponse.
Therewasuntouchedsensualityinsideher,ripeforamanstrongenoughtopushpast
herbarriers,caringenoughtoseetohersafetyandpeaceofmind.Morgandidn’tknow
therewasmuchmoreinsideher.
Yet.
Anddamn,hewantedtobethemantoshowher.
“Goodmorning,”hemurmured.
Hepressedasoftkisstohertremblingmouth,nudgingherlipsapartandslidinghis
tongueinsideinaslow,coaxingglide.Foramoment,sherecoiledagainstthetasteof
herselfonhislips.Jackgrabbedher,cradlingherheadinhispalmsandforcedherto
tastethesweetperfectionofherselfallwhiledeepeningtheswirlanddanceofthekiss.
Finally,sherelaxedagainsthim,openedhermouthtohim,anddrewhistongueandthe
tasteofherselfdeepinside.
Respectofherquickacceptancesurgedinsidehim.No,itwasflat-outpride—andthat
wasbothajoyandawarning.Morganwassweet,andhecouldbendher,moldherintoa
submissivewhocouldtempthimbeyondhiswildestfantasies.Intime,hecouldhelpher
acceptthatpartofherselfthatshestruggledsohardtodeny.Shewouldneverbetruly
happyuntilshedid.
Butthatfeelingofpride…itwasastepawayfromownership.Nodominanthadpride
inasubhewasn’tattachedto,determinedtomakehis.Foryears,he’dfeltadistant
respectforwomenhe’dmasteredwhopushedpasttheirboundariestosubmit.Likea
teachertoapupil,he’dpraisedtheirprogress,punishedtheirsetbacks,allwhileassuring
themoftheirabilities.
WithMorgan…itfeltdeeper,morepersonal.Asifhehadtohelpher.Asifhehad
somepersonalstakeinherbloomingsexuality.
Asifshe’smine.Thefeelingconfirmedeverythinginsidehim.Thiswasn’taphase,or
theheatofthemoment.Hewantedher.Period.
“Jack.”
Morgan’sshakyvoicepushedintohisconsciousness,bringinghimback.She
shivered,andthistimenotfromdesire.Damn,itwascoldouthere.Andyet,she’d
endured.No,she’dexcelled,outshininganythinghe’dimaginedhercapableofinthat
moment.
Hewrappedhisarmsaroundher,doinghisbesttoshelterherfromthewind.“The
airisbrisk,huh,cher?”
Andbecausehecouldn’tresist,hetuckedherheadbeneathhischinandstrokedher
backwithonehand.Hisotherfitperfectlyoverherbreast,histhumblazilyflickingthe
stillhardnipple.
Shewhimpered.
Anyurgencytoshepherdherintohisplayroomandhoardherinthereforhours—
days—thathadlefthisbodyzingedbacktolifeinthatonesound.
Hereachedintohispockettofindhiskeyswitheveryintenttocommandhertowarm
herselfwithaquickwarmshower,thenmeethimintheplayroominfifteenminutes.
Fuckbreakfast.He’dratherfuckher.
“Bonjour,”afaint,familiarvoiceraspedfromjustaroundthecorner,nearthefront
door.
Morgangasped,stiffeninginthecircleofhisarms.“Isthat…yourgrandfather!”
Yes.Whoelsehassuchimpeccabletiming?Bitingbackanastycurse,heeased
Morganawayfromhisshelteringwarmth,shovedtheremnantsofhisshirtinherhands,
andurgedherinsidethecottagethroughthesidedoor.
“Go.Showeranddress.We’llfinishlater.”
Shehesitated,goingwide-eyedathiswords.Indecisionspreadacrossherflushed
face.“Jack,I—I…Maybeweshouldtalkaboutthis.”
“Bonjour?”Brice’svoicesoundedcloser.
Timehadrunout.
Quickly,hepressedahardkisstohermouth,thenspunheraround,throughthe
opendoor.Withasharpslaponherass,hepropelledherinside.“Ifyouwant.Butwe
willfinishthislater.”
Beforeshecouldsputterareply,heshutthedoorbetweenthem.
Morgan’sreluctancetocontinuewhatthey’dstartedwasbothobviousand
frustrating.Justwhenhethoughthe’dreachedher…Grantedshewasn’tsayingno,but
shehadn’tgivenhimthesweetlittle“yes”hisbodycraved—andexpectedafterher
responsethismorning.Disappointmentandangergushedthroughhim,confusinghim,
asheturnedtofacehisgrand-pere.
Togetheralltheurgesconcoctedanastonishingbrewofresolvenottoacceptanother
momentofMorgan’shesitation,nodoubtequalinstrengthtoheruncertainty.Andhe
wantedtounderstand.Whatwashangingherup?Itwassomethingmorethansimple
modestyorfearoftheunknown.
Jacksighed.Thequestionheshouldbeaskingwas,whatthehellwaswrongwithhim,
thathewassuddenlysodeterminedtohavethiswoman?Apparently,he’dlosthismind.
Butitfeltmorelikehewasindangeroflosingmuchmore…
“Ah,thereyouare,”Bricesaid,roundingthecorner.Heshuffleddownthelong
stretchofthewrap-aroundporch.
“Morning,Grand-pere.”Jackofferedaseatbackonthechairinthecornerwitha
waveofhishand.“Coffee?”
“Non.Icametocheckuponyouandtajolierousse.”
Hisprettyredhead?Notatthemoment.Shemightbeonestepclosernowifithadn’t
beenforanuntimelyinterruption.Hebitbackacurse.
“Morganisfine,”Jackmuttered,slidingintothechairbesidehisgrandfather
Helickedhislipsandstilltastedhersweetnessthere.Thatflavor—andthememories
ofherlegsspreadwideforhim,heruninhibitedmoansechoingaroundhim—wasn’t
doinganythingtoreducehisragingerection.
“Haveyouseen…moreofhersincemylastvisit?”Bricecackledandwinked.“You
wereslowtoanswermygreetingandnevernoticedmyknockingonthedoor,yeah.”
“Ididn’tanswerthedoorbecauseIdidn’thearit.Iwasouthere.Andit’searly.I
hardlyexpectedcompany.”
“Whattimeitis?”Bricefrowned.
Jackdidn’tbuyhisgrandfather’sinnocentactforaminute.“Whattimeisit?”he
corrected.“It’swaytooearlyforsocialcalls,butearlyenoughtocatchusatsomethingifwelikedtostartthedayoffright.Isn’tthatwhatyouwerethinking?”
“Monpetit-fils,youaresuspicious.”
“IthinkIhavearighttobe,sincethe‘warmandpractical’clothingyoubrought
MorganlookslikeitcamefromtheX-ratedversionoftheVictoria’sSecretcatalog.”
Hisgrandfather’slaughtermadeJackrollhiseyes.“Butyouhaveenjoyedthe…
sights?”
“Nocomment.Whywouldyoudosuchathing?Waveanopeninvitationinmyface
tohavesexwithher.Iknowyouwantmetoremarry,butyou’dnevermetMorganbefore
thatstunt.”
Theoldmantappedonhischest.“Livelongenough,yeah,andyouknowthings.
Themdreams,Jack,theymeansomething.Downthroughthegenerations,they’ve
alwaysmeantlove.”
“Justbecauseitdidforyou—”
“Non,notjustme.Mygrandfather,too.HetookajobinSanFranciscoforafewyears.
NomoreAcadiancountryforhim,sayshe.”Bricewavedadismissivehandatthat.“He
startedhavingdreams,didhe,aboutabeaublond.”
“Hell,I’vehadafantasyortwoaboutagorgeousblondeinmylifetime.”
“Formonthsstraight,mongar?on?”
Jacksighed,bothbecausehehatedbeingcalledanyone’sboyandbecausereasoning
withtheoldmanwasneveraneasytask.
“No,”hefinallyanswered.
“Youseethere,yeah.Mygrand-perehadthesedreamsaboutaladyataball.Hemet
heranddiscoveredshewashisboss’syoungbride.Sincehislovewasalreadymarried,
hebelievedthefamilylegendwaswrong.Buthekeptondreamingofher.Thedreams
werehardonhisheart.
“Twoweeksaftermeetingsonamour,thebigearthquakestruckSanFrancisco.
Nineteen-oh-six.Thelovelylady’shusband,hedied.Andmygrandfathermarriedthe
prettyblondeayearlater.Sixenfantsandoverfiftyyearslater,theywasstillinlove.”
Staringattheoldman,Jackwonderedifhewasserious.Wasitevenpossible,evena
bit?
“Andhisgrandfatherbeforehim,”Bricewenton,“waswoundedinbattleand
capturedbytheYanksattheendoftheCivilWar.Hisbride,shewasaUnionnursein
thefieldhospital.Hekeptajournalthatsaiddreamsofafacelessbeautykepthimsane
duringmonthsofbattle,yeah.Whenhemether,itwasashock.Theymarriedthreedays
afterthewarended.”
Threemenofhisbloodalldreamingoffacelessbeauties.Jackhaddreamedendlessly
ofonewithsparklingredhairglowinginthesunlight.Andjustthismorning,Morgan
hadmanifestedherselfashisdreamimage.Didthatexplainhisinsanedesiretolay
claimtoher,asifshewasn’ttaken,asifshewasmorethantheinstrumentofhis
revenge?Asifwalkingawayfromherwasn’tpossible?
Shockjoltedadizzyingboltthroughhissystem.Jackstrokedhischinandtriedto
regainhisbalance.Theconceptofpredestinedmatesanddreamingofthemwasso…
otherworldly.Soweird.Notthathehadn’tgrownupwiththeknowledge;he’djustnever
believedit.
“Noneofuswanttobelievethatthere’sanytruthtothismalédiction.Butfactsis
facts,yeah.Ithappenstoeverymaninourline.Andnow,it’syourturn,withMorgan.”
“Howdidyouknowwhenithappenedtoyou?”Jackasked,strugglingtoaccepthis
grandfather’sclaim.“Whatmadeyousure,besidesthedreams,thatGrand-merewasthe
one?”
Theoldmansmiled,deepeninglinesaroundhiseyesandmouth,leavingnodoubt
themanhadspentalifetimesmilingwideandoften.“ThemomentImether,Ifoughta
crazyurgetograbheruptightandconvincehertobemine.Ineverwantedtobeaway
fromherorseeherblue.Mostofall,chergar?on,IwantedherhappyandIknewdeep
insidehere,”hepointedtohisheart,“thatIcouldmakeherso.Comprenes-tu?”
Oh,yeah.Jackunderstoodalltoowell.Hadn’thebeenfeelingthesamewayfrom
nearlytheinstanthe’dmetMorgan?Theinsanedesiretotouchher,thewillingnesstodo
mostanythingtokeephersafe,thesnarlingangertowardherstalker?Hehatedher
dismay,butthekeytoherhappinesslayinhercagedsexuality.“Listentoyourgut,Jack.
Followyourinstincts.”“Theydon’tmakesense.”
ThesmilelinesbracketingBrice’smouthdeepened.“Theydon’thaveto.Theheart
ain’tmeanttomakessense.Youeverfeelthiswayaboutanyoneelse?AboutKayla?”
Theoldmanallbutspithisex-wife’sname.
Jackjustshookhishead.No.Never.Notevenclose.He’dmarriedherbecauseshe
waspregnant,andhewasveryCatholic,evenifshehadn’tbeen.She’dmiscarriedinher
fifthmonth.Themarriageendedafewmonthslaterwhenhe’dfoundavideotapeof
BrandonRossfuckingher,whileshe’dsupposedlybeengrievingthelossofherbabytoo
deeplytohavesexwithherownhusband.Lookingback,hisdivorcehadbeenaguilty
relief.Andabitterhumiliation.Bricehadbeenwithhim,expectingtoseeanepisodeof
CSIJackhadpromisedtovideotapeforhim.They’dviewedawholedifferentsortof
actioninstead.
“Youseenow,yeah?”Bricemurmured.
“It’scomplicated.Morganbelongsto…tosomeoneelse.They’reengaged.”
Jackcouldn’ttellhisgrandfatherthatMorganbelongedtothemanwhohadbeen
withKaylainthevideotape.Bricewouldknowthathe’dluredMorganunderhisroofin
thenameofrevenge.He’dhaveaprettygoodideaofwhatJackhaddonetohertoobtain
thatrevenge.AndtheoldmanwouldflaytheskinoffJack’sbackwithhisoldhunting
knifeandpourTabascointhewound.
Grimacing,Jackcouldn’tdenyanunsettlingsenseofshamebubblinginhisgut.
AndifMorganeverfoundout…OhGod,shewouldfindout.Theminuteshetalked
toBrandon.Andstoppingitwasdamnnearimpossible.
Heletlooseavilecurse.Therewasnowayhecouldtakebacktheemailhe’dalready
sent.Damn!Hewishedhe’dheededhisinstinctatthatmoment,whichtoldhim
emailingthevideowasamistake.AndonceMorganandBrandontalked…he’dloseher
forsurethen.Thethoughtfilledhimwithasnarling,toweringpanic.
Unlesshefoundsomeironcladwaytobindhertohimbeforehetoldherthetruth…
Yes!Hehadto.
Briceshrugged.“Now,boy.Whyworry?Sheandthisman,theyisnotmarried.And
whynot?Maybesheknowsthisothermanisnotforher.Yeah?Maybeshegivesyoua
kissortwobecauseherheartandherbodyknowwhatherminddon’t.”
“Thatshedoesn’tloveherfiancé?”
“Exactement.”
Wasitreallythatsimple?ThatMorganwashis…soulmate,andthatsherespondedto
him,hadallowedhimsomuchlibertyoverherbodybecausesomewheredeepinsideher
sheknewhewasmeantforher?Itseemedso…surreal.Fuckinghocuspocus.
Wasitpossibleshewasn’tacheatingsortofwoman,justaconfusedone?Justas
confusedashewas?
Jacksighedandheldhisheadinhishands.
AslurofdisgustrosefromBrice’sthroat.“Ah,youyoungnow.Nosenseofromance.
Keepresisting.Makeyourselfmiserable.Lovewillwearyoudown.”
Love?Thethoughtcouldn’thavebeenmorealienifitwasgreenandsported
antennae.
“Iwanther.Idon’tloveher.”
“Youknowthat,doyou?Youalreadyknowthatyouwillalwaysnotloveher?”
Jackslumpedbackinhischair.Damnthemanandhisquestions.“No,Idon’tknow
that.”
Bricesenthimanall-knowingnod.“IbroughtsomejeansandshirtsforMorgan.You
canfixmesomemornin’grub,yeah.Afterthat,youtellmeifyouwantmetogetthem
fromtheboat…ortakeèmbackwithme.”
LeavingMorganinnothingbuttemptinglingerie.
Immediately,thememoryofherinthatgoldencamisoleandthongbombardedhis
brain,engorginghiscock.Ohyeah,Morganlookedhotinthatget-up.Butjustthevisual
alonecouldn’tfirehimuptosomethingbetweenaboilandablazethatquickly.Hell,
he’dseenhundredsofnakedwomen,especiallyhangingaroundAlyssaandhergirls.
They’dgetarisefromhimeverysooften,butthisfeelingscrapingathislogicandpeace
ofminduntilhefeltraw…Jackcouldonlytermitacavemanurgetoclaim.Likehehad
toknowshewashisandbesecureintheknowledgethathewouldalwayskeephersafe
andhappy.Thethoughtofsucceeding,ofbeingabletoconvincehertobehisinevery
way,jackeduphistemperatureanothertendegrees.
Holyshit.
Atthispoint,hecouldn’tthinkofasingleargumentthatmightprovehisgrandfather
wrong.
Infact,ifhewantedtohaveMorgan,andkeepher,hewasgoingtohavetoforma
strongerbondbetweenthemrightaway.Somethingthatmightshakebutwouldn’tbreak
whenshelearnedwhyhe’dagreedtobeonherTVshow—andthathe’dbribedher
buddyReggietomakeithappen.Thathe’ddoneitallforrevenge.Andhe’dtellher…
butnotyet.Notuntiltheyweresolid.
First,hehadtoearnhertrustonaviscerallevel,teachherbodythathewouldalways
puthercarefirst.Thebedroomwasagoodplacetostartbreakingdownherbarriers.
Onceshe’dsurrendered,thentheycouldtalk.Therestwouldfallintoplace.
Knowledge,rightness,andaplanclickedintoplaceinthatmoment,likethepieceofa
puzzlethathadbeenhoveringjustoutofreach.
Finally,hesaid,“Idon’tneedtimetothinkaboutit.Takeherclotheswithyou,
Grand-pere.Don’tbringthemouthereagain.”
Bricesmiledwide,showingcrookedwhiteteethagainstCajun-darkskin.“Laizzezles
bontempsroule!”
Oh,yeah.Letthegoodtimesroll…
CHAPTERELEVEN
Wewillfinishthislater.
Jack’svowrangthroughMorgan’sheadasBricecharmedherthroughbreakfast.
Shechastisedtheoldermanforbringingherlingerieandnothingelse.Withdark
eyestwinkling,hegaveherasanguinegrinandashrug,butwasn’tapologeticinthe
least.
ButJack…hisgazeburned,telegraphinghisearlierwords.Wewillfinishthislater.
Morganwishedshecouldcloseoffthememory,drownoutthevoiceinherhead.Over
scrambledeggs,whichbothmendousedwithTabasco,Jackstaredatherasifshewasa
crossbetweenaconfoundingpuzzleandatastytreat.Andaboveall,somethinghe
coveted.Someonehemeanttopossess.
Damnit,whyhadsheeversaidyestoJackandhisplayroom?Tryingtosaynoafter
theexquisitepleasurehe’dgivenherseemednearlyimpossible.
Butsayingyesinthatmomenthadbeeneasy—imperative—withhismouthhovering
overherandanenormousclimaxpending.Nowthatpleasurewasn’tdestroyingher
abilitytobreatheandthink,Morganwasn’tsurethatgivingin,givinghimeverythinghe
wanted,wasagoodidea.Itwouldnotonlychangeeverythingbetweenthem,butchange
herforever.SincebeingaroundJack,herfantasieshadbecomemoreurgent,more
explicit.Impulsesshe’dalwayshadnowcamewithrememberedsensations—andthe
memoriesalsocamecompletewithJack’ssigh-worthyfacetohaunther.
Ontheotherhand,shewantedhim—andwasbeginningtocravehavingeverywild
pleasurehecouldgiveher.Somethingaboutgivingintotheimpulsesherousedinher
bodymadeherfeelmorealive,more…complete.Didthatevenmakesense?
Wewillfinishthislater.Giventheweightofhisstarerightnow,Morganknewhestill
meantit.
Shouldshe?Shouldn’tshe?
LikeeverythingelseaboutJack,thepromisehe’dgivenherfilledherwithhotshame,
evenasitmadeheracheandshakewithneed.Thismorning,ontheporch…God,she
couldstillfeelhismouthonhersex,forcinghistongueinsideher,takingtender
possession.Drivingheroutofhermind.He’dsuffusedeverynerveinherbodywith
speech-defyingecstasy,makingitimpossibletorunawayfromthesensationshepoured
overherlikesweet,warmhoney.
Butshewassodamncurious—andexcited—aboutwhateverhedidonthoseracks
andtableswiththecuffsandclamps…andotheritemsshewastoonaivetoname.The
moreshetriedtorunawayfromherwants,themoreinsistenttheygrew,slowly
overtakingherwilllikeaclingingvineovertakingthegarden.
Whatifshelethimfollowthroughonhisthreattofinishwhatthey’dstarted?Would
itbesoterribleifshedid?Justfornow?NoonebutherandJackwouldhavetoknow.
Bitingherlip,shewatchedJack’stautposturegrowmoretenseasBricelingeredfor
after-breakfastcoffee.Hisdarkeyespromisedpleasure,preparedherforahintofpain.
Hisvowtototallypossesshershoneinhisseductivegaze.Sheswallowedagainstabelly-
tighteningmixoffearandthrillandanticipation.Attractionlayeredoverthat,luringher
directlytohim,asifaninvisiblestringlaybetweenthem,growingshorterandshorter
witheveryhour.
Itmadenosensethatshecouldwantsomeonesodesperatelywhobroughtouther
veryworstimpulses.Someonewhowouldtakeherplacesfarbeyondthenorm,intoa
realmthatwouldhorrifyhermotherandsickenmenlikeAndrew.IfsheletJack,he
wouldruinherforeveryotherman’stouch.Worse,livingwithherselfafterhemolded
herintoasubmissivewantonwouldbeimpossible.Doormatwasn’therstyle.Shedidn’t
takeorderswell,didn’tlikebeingtoldwhattodo.Hermotherhadstartedcallingheran
independenthoydenaboutthetimesheturnedtwelve.
ButwithJack…Morgansighed.Hiscommandsseepedinsideher—notjustherbody,
buthermind,hersoul.Thethingshedemandedofherneverfailedtoshockher,andyet,
heoftenorderedhertodoexactlywhatshe’dbeensecretlycraving.Sometimes,she
wonderedhowhecouldreadhermind.Itstartledher.Itshamedher.Itmadeherache
forhimbeyondanythingshe’dimagined.
Andshedidn’tthinkshehadthewilltokeepfightingwhattheybothwanted.
Maybe…justmaybesheshouldembracethistimetogether,findoutthetruthabout
herdesires.Jackwouldn’tintentionallyhurtherbeyondalittleeroticpain.Hermother’s
andAndrew’sopinionswouldn’tmatterwayouthere,aworldawayfromcivilization.It
couldbehertime,theirsecrettime,beforeherstalkerwascaughtandshereturnedto
reality.
Justafternoon,Bricerosetoleave.MorganknewJackwantedtopickupwherethey’d
leftoffearlierthismorning.Likeanynervousfemale,shewantedtolookherbest.
RetreatingtothebathroomwhenJackwalkedBricetothedock,sheindulgedina
decadentbathandspentextratimedryingherhair.Shelamentedthefactthatshehad
nomakeup,whichgaveherabsolutelynowaytosoftenthesmatteringoffrecklesonher
too-fairface.Shelickedherlips,pinchedhercheeksandshrugged.Thatwasthebestshe
coulddo.
Asetofregimentedfootstepsstarteddownthehall,pullingheroutofherthoughts.
Jack.He’dbepoundingonthedoorsoon,demandingtopoundather.
Herbreathcaught.Wassheready?Couldshehandleit?Shereleasedashakybreath,
tornbetweenherrationalmindandherdemandingbody.Hermindhadalways
prevailedbefore,butsinceJack…game,set,matchtoherbody.
ShewasaspreparedforamanlikeJackasshe’deverbe,consideringshewore
nothingmoretoshieldherfromhispenetratinggazethanhisbathrobeandbloodred
undergarmentswithwickedcutoutsdesignednottocovertheessentials.
Insteadofbeingrepulsedbytherevealingexploitivelingerie,Morgansimplyfelt
herselfgrowingevermorewetatthethoughtofJackseeingherinthem.
“Morgan?”hebarkedthroughthethinbarrierofthebathroomdoor.
Showtime.“Jack?”
Anytimehelookedather,shefeltsurethosedark,knowingeyescouldseeevery
sinfulsecretinhersoul.Buttoday,hervoicetrembledmerelybecauseshespokehis
name.
Beforehecouldsayordoanything,thephonerang.Heutteredaripesibilantcurse
andstompedbackdownthehall.Morgansaggedwithanoddmixofreliefand
disappointment…butshecouldn’tdenythattheachebetweenherlegshadratcheted
higher.
Takingadeepbreath,shesteppedintothehallandlingeredintheshadows.And
listened.
“Whatthehelldoyouwant?”sheheardJacksnap.
Arumblinglaughoverthespeakerphoneinthecottage’sfrontroomechoeddown
thehall.
“I’lltakethreeguessesastowhyyou’resocrabby.AndIdon’tneedthelasttwo.”
Deke.Sherecognizedhisteasingvoice,couldpicturethecrinklesoflaughteraround
thosedancingdenim-blueeyes…soseeminglyatoddswiththattall,hardbody.
“Didyoucalljusttoannoyme?”
“Hell,no.YouknowInevergoforanythingeasy.Where’sthechallengeinthat?”
“Soyoucalledbecause…?”
“IneedtotalktoMorgan.”
Jackhesitated,hishandscurlingintofists.“Why?”
Inthatonesyllable,hesoundedsomewherebetweensuspiciousanddownright
pissed.
“Didthathardcockofyoursmakeyouforgetallaboutthestalkertrailinghersweet
ass?”
“No,youSOB,Ihaven’tforgotten.Andyougetyourmindoffherass.”
“It’snotasifI’veperfectedtheabilitytoreachmycockthroughthephonelineand
fuckher,Jack.It’saconversation.Lightenup.”
Morganfrowned.DekeactedasifhethoughtJackwasjealous.Thethoughtwould
havemadeherburstoutlaughingifshehadn’tobservedJack’soddbehavioraround
Dekebeforeandhehadn’tlookedso…tense.
Withadeepsigh,Jackuncurledhisfists.“I’llgether.”
“I’mhere.”Morgantookthosefewstepsoutoftheshadow,intothelight,thendown
thehalltowardJack.
Hewhirledtofaceher,hiseyesgraspingontoherlikeavise.Morganfelthernipples,
barefromthecutoutsinthebra,beatagainstthesoft,thinjerseyknitofhisrobe.Based
onthewayhiseyeswidenedandhisnostrilsflared,sheguessedhenoticed.
“Morgan,”Dekegreetedoverthespeakerphone.“Hi,doll.”
“Hi,Deke.Doyouhavenews?”
“Yeah.Weweren’tabletoliftanyprintsoffthephotos.I’msorry.Butwedidlearn
someinterestinginformationaboutthem,soIhaveafewquestions.”
Disappointmenttrembledwithinher.Whenwouldthisnightmarebeover?Andhow
woulditeverendifDekecouldn’ttrackthislunaticdown?Shewantedtofeelnormal
again,returnhomeandnotworrythatsomeonehadbreachedherpersonalspaceand
violatedherbedwithsemen.Shewantedheroldlifeback.Clearly,shewasn’tgoingto
getitanytimesoon.
Tohersurprise,Jackeasedbesideherandcurledhersuddenlycoldhandintothis
larger,warmerone.Warm.Solid.Secure.Heenvelopedherinthatsimpleembrace,and
instantlyMorganfeltstronger.
UntilsherealizedthatgettingheroldlifebackmeantlosingJack.The
disappointmentthatcrashedinonherstunnedher.Sheclungtightertohim.Whydidn’t
thethoughtofgettingawayfromhimmakeherwanttocelebrate?Sheoughttobe
contemplatinghowmanymargaritasshecouldgetoutofherblender.Gettingbackto
heroldlifewouldmeannomorestalker,nomorequestioningherself.Instead,she
latchedontoJack’shandandrefusedtoletgo.
“Whatdoyouwanttoknow?”MorganaskedDeke.
“Anyoneyouknowreallyintophotography,likeit’sabigtimehobby?”
“Reggie,myproductionassistant.Hemostlydabblesbuthe’sverygood.He’shada
fewshowsinthepast.”Morganfrowned.“Youdon’tthinkReggiewould…?”
Hehesitated.“AftermyFBIbuddiesanalyzedthesepictures,wediscoveredthey
weretakenbysomeonewhoknowstheirwayaroundacamera.Theyweren’tdeveloped
inastandardlab,likesomeonehadtakenthemtoaone-hourphotoplace.Theyweren’t
printedfromadigitalimagetoaphotoprinter.Thisisoldschool,likelydevelopedat
home,usingaprettyraresetofchemicalsandprintedonphotopaperthat’smadein
Europe.Thisissomeonewhotakesphotographyseriously.Andwhileyoumayfeeljust
threatenedwhenyoulookatthese,acoupleofthepsychprofilersfeltlikehewastrying
to…makeitart.Hedidn’tjustsnappictures.Helookedforsymmetry,lighting,
interestingangles.There’snosloppyworkhere.”
Reggie?Herfriend,Reggie?No…
Butshedidn’tknowanyoneelsewithapassionforphotography,whothoroughly
disdainedthephotoprinterspopularfordigitalcameras.Totalcrap,hecalledthem.Not
worthwastinganimageon.Shedidn’tknowanyoneelsewhohadadarkroomintheir
apartment.
Morganwentnumb.Breathrushedfromherbody.Reggie,whowaslikeafather?
No!
NotmanypeopleknewheraddressinLosAngeles.Reggiedid—alongwithher
schedule.Hecouldhavesnuckinandmasturbatedonherbedinherabsence.Reggie
wasoneofthefewpeoplewhoknewexactlywhenshe’dgonetoHoustonandexactly
where.
Sherubbedherforeheadagainstasuddenache.Reggie?CouldhehavebeeninTexas
totakepicturesofherinBrandon’sbackyardafewdaysago?ShealwaystalkedtoReggie
viacellphone…soshedidn’tknowexactlywherehewas.Anythingwaspossible.Andif
Reggiehadcomethatfartostalkher,well,healonehadknownsheintendedtogoto
LafayettetomeetJack.Followingherabitfartherwouldn’thavebeenthatdifficult.
HadReggie,thefathershe’dneverhad,takensecret,sexualpicturesofher?Had
Reggiestalkedher,masturbatedonherbed,triedtoshoother?No!But…whoelsecould
itbe?
JustReggie.
“Oh,God.”Shockhummedthroughherbody,buzzedinherbrain.Morgan’sknees
buckled.Shecoveredhermouthwithatremblinghandtokeepascreamin.“Wh…I
don’t…Why?ItrustedReggie.Completely.”
Asshestaggered,Jackwoundhisarmaroundherwaist.
“Steady,”hemurmured.
ShestaredatJackinsuddenhorror.Ifshecouldn’ttrustReggie,amanshe’dknown
forthreeyearsastheprotectiveloutwithaheartofgold,couldshetrustJack,aman
she’donlyknownfordays?
“Morgan?”Deke’sconcernresoundedthroughthephonewire.
SheturnedtolookatJackthroughwideeyes,pouringoutuncertaintyandpanic.
Whatdidsheknowabouthim?JustwhatReggiehadtoldher…andthathe’dtriedto
twisthersexualityintosomethingshedidn’twanttoaccept.
ShestruggledtoescapeJack’shold.Flee.Squirmingandwrithing,shetriedtobreak
free.Now.Gosomeplacewherenoonecouldfindher.
“Steady.”JackusedthatpatientbutcommandingvoiceMorganknewsowell.
Somethingdeepinsideherrespondedinstantly,wantedtoheedthatvoice.Another
partofherfeared…Shedidn’tknowwhatexactly.Thatvirtuallyanyonecouldwishher
harm,especiallysomeoneshetrusted.Reggieonlyprovedshecouldn’tjudgethe
characterofthosearoundher.Whatifshe’dmistakenlytrustedastranger,notjustwith
hersafety,butwithherbody,hersoul?
ThestrangersheonlyknewbecauseReggiehadpassedJack’sinformationherway
AnicychilloffearblastedthroughMorgan.ShekickedatJack’sshins,throwingan
elbowintohisstomach.Heclaspedhertighteranddodgedhersharpjabs.
“I’llcallyoulater,”Jackgrowledintothephone.Thenheslammedafingeronthe
buttonandendedtheconnectionwithDeke.
Jackpickedheruparoundthewaist.Morganstruggledharder,panicstreaking
throughherbelly,downherlegs.Hegruntedwhenshemanagedtolandaheelinhis
shin.Hopespranginsidethathe’dlethergo.
Heheldtighter.
Jackbackedintothebedroom,draggingherwithhim.Morgantriedtograbthe
doorknobanduseitasananchor,buthewastoofast,toostrong.
“Damnyou,putmedown!”Morganshouted.“Putmethehelldown!”
“Iknowwhatyou’rethinking,”hegrowled,ignoringherdemand.“Stopitnow.”
“Youcan’ttellmewhattothink,asshole.”
“Thinklogically,cher.”
Momentslater,shefoundherselftossedontotherumpledbed,flatonherback.
Fasterthanaflashoflightning,hecoveredherchilled,franticbodyandpinnedhertothe
mattress.Hisarmsstretchedoutoverhers,hotfingersclaspedaroundherwristsina
gentlebutunyieldingvice.Theweightofhislongerlegssecuredherownagainstthesoft
sheets.
No.ThewordburnedacrossMorgan’sbrainasshestruggled,theneedtoescapeand
findanisolatedholetohideinoverridingallelse.Jacktightenedaboveuntilheheldher
completelyimmobile.No!
“Relax.”Hisdarkstareslammedintoher,penetratingherfearwithacalm,
commandingstare.
“Letmego!”Morgantensedagainsthim,arms,legs,doingherbesttoremain
unyielding.
“Iknowwhat’srunningthroughthatprettyheadofyours,cher.Stop.I’mnotgoing
tohurtyou.”
“IfReggieisguilty,then…thenanyone—you—couldwantmebleeding,dead…”
Hervoicesoundedbreathy,trembling.Morganhatedthefactthathervoiceshook
OnTV,shewasthesexybleachedblondeshowhostess,professionalwithahintofawild
streak.Itworked.OutonthemiddleoftheLouisianaswamps,underJack’sroof,shewas
aterrifiednaturalredheadwhohatedthiscrappy,helplessfeeling,hatedbeingoutofher
elementphysically,mentally,environmentally…sexually.
Jackfrowned,concernetchingthefurrowbetweenhisbrows.“You’rethinkingwith
adrenaline,Morgan,notlogic.Don’t.We’vebeenherealonefortwodays.Atanytime,I
couldhavehurtyou,ifthatwasmyintent.”
Morganpaused,panting.Hermindraced.Jack’dhadamillionopportunitiestorape
orkillher—orboth.He’ddoneneither.Butcomingdownofftheledgewasn’tthat
simple.
“HowdoIknowyou’renottoyingwithme,waitingformetolowermyguardand
completelytrustyoubeforeyoumoveinforthekill?WhatdoIknowaboutyouatall?”
Jackpaused,thoseendlesschocolateeyesdrillingintoher,breathtakingintheirstark
sincerityandtightwithfrustration.“Iamnotyourstalker.NoramIinleaguewiththe
scumbag.Ifyou’dlistentoyourgut,youwouldknowthat.”
“Youneverhadanysortofplantoharmme?”
“Harmyou?”Hepinnedherwithastarestrippedofeverythingexceptresentment
andhonesty.“Whohelpedyouescapetheshooter?Whobroughtyoutosafety?”
Sheansweredwithapregnantpause,hermindracing.Clearly,Jackhadn’tharmed
her,despiteconstantopportunities.HehadsavedherthatdayinLafayette;sheknew
that.Shejustdidn’tunderstandwhy.
“Damnyou,whathaveIdonetoearnyourdistrust?”hedemanded.“Notonefucking
thingexcepttrytomakeyouseewhoyoureallyareandwhatyoupretendnottowant.”
“ThreedaysagoI’dbarelyheardyourname,”Morganshoutedintohistenseface.
“NowI’msupposedtoplacemysexualityandmyentirelifeinyourhandsandthink
nothingofit?Howmanymenwouldjust…risktheirlivestohelpastranger?”
“That’swhatasoldierdoeseveryday,Morgan.”Heclutchedatherwrists,holdingher
tight.“Heputshisassonthelinetoprotectthecitizensofhiscountry,mostofwhom
he’llneverknow.Iwasasoldierfortoomanyyearstochange.ThenIbecamea
bodyguard.Iwasn’tgoingtostandthereandwatchyoudie.”
ThewhitehazeofpanicbegantoliftfromhermindasMorganprocessedhiswords.
Jackhadsavedherbecausethat’swhohewas.Maybehisbehaviorwaspartinstinct,part
chivalry.IfhewasworkingwithReggietokillher,hewastakinghissweettime.Andthat
didn’tseemJack’sstyle.
Okay,soitwasn’tlikelythathewasReggie’spartnerinsomegrandscheme,but
somethingstillniggledather.Somethingdidn’tfeelquiteright.
“SohelpingmeinLafayettehadnothingtodowithbeingonTV?”
Bracedonhiselbowsthatnowframedherface,heshookhishead.“Icouldgiveashit
aboutbeingonTV.Honestly,IsavedyoubecauseIhadto.That’smyjob.ButIalsodidit
becauseIwantedtotouchyou.ThefirsttimeItalkedtoyou
online…somethingwastherebetweenus.”Hekissedhiswaydownherjaw.“Isensed
yourinnocence,yourcuriosityanduncertainty.ThatdaywehadcoffeeontheSquare,the
sightofyouwaslikeapunchtomygut.Youandyourarousedreluctancemademewant
yousobadIcouldn’tbreathe.Withinfivesecondsofmeetingyou,Iwaslookingforways
tostretchoutourmeeting,totouchyou.Iwantyoustill.”
Herpulseleaptasifithadfoundatrampoline.Wow,he’djust…laiditalloutonthe
table.Shocktumbledthroughher,causingwordsandthoughtstotripoveroneanother.
Yes.No.Shewanted.Sheshouldn’t.Instead,sheswallowed,uncertainwhatsheshould
say.
“Youwantme,too.”
Hispronouncement,statedlikearrogantfact,startledher.Butshecouldn’tdenyit.
OfcourseshewantedJack.Evenashehoveredoverherandanchoredherwriststothe
bedagain,adecidedlysexualquestioninhischocolateeyes,hernippleshardened.She
feltherselfgettingwetoncemore.
Hedroppedakissonherforehead,anotheronherjaw.“YouknowI’mnotgoingto
hurtyou,right?”
Slowly,shenodded.“You…You’reright.”
“AndyourfriendReggie.Hemightbeguilty,yes.Hemightnot.Untilweknowmore,
don’tassumeanything.”
Morganshookherhead.“Buthe’stotallyintophotography.Nooneelse—”
“Iunderstand.Justwait.Dekewillkeepdigging.Fornow,Ithinkit’simportantthat
youdon’ttalktoReggie,notuntilweknowmore.Hadyouplannedtocallhim,check
in?”
“Itriedyesterday.Ican’tgetacellsignalouthere.”
“No.”Jackshookhishead.“Mostpeoplecan’t.Willheraisesomeredflagifyou
don’tcall?”
“Notforawhile;afewmoredaysprobably.”
“Hopefully,we’llhavethissortedoutbythen.Untilthen,don’tassumetheworst.We
haveonefactthatdoesn’tmakethingslookgoodforReggie,butnothingisabsolute.
Andevenifheisguilty,youknowhecan’tfindyouhere,right?”
Whereverherewas…“Right.”
“Inthemeantime,I’mheretoprotectyou.”
“Why?”Whywouldhegosofaroutinalimbforher?“Youdon’thavetokeepthat
promise.”
“Yes,Ido.”Henuzzledherneck,teethnippingatherlobeashishotbreathfannedin
herear.“Besides,withyou,it’saboutmorethanprotection.”
Morganshivered.Shebecameawareofhisfingersslidingupherarmstoclamp
aroundherwristsagain,hislegspinningherownbeneathhimoncemore,theheat
transferringbetweenthem,downthelineoftheirbodies.Andthestalkofhiserection,
thick,long,insistent.
“Somuchmore,”hewhispered.“Youamazeme.Youaresmartenoughtostayone
stepaheadofaverydeterminedpsycho.Sweetenoughtoaddictme.Stubbornenoughto
defyme.StrongenoughtoworktobreakintoTV,whichIknowisatoughbusiness.”
ThenicestcomplimentAndrewhadeverpaidherwastoclaimshewasdazzling.
Great,soshefilledoutadresswell.Whoopee.ButJack’swordsdrizzledontoheroneata
timelikehotfudgeonasundae,coatingherfearwithsomethingsoothingandwonderful
Amanouttohurtherwouldn’tcareifshewassmart,sweet,stubborn,orstrong.
Evenmore,he’dpaidattentiontoher.Her—thedeep-downpersonshewas.
Jackwasgettingtoher,slowlymakinghermelt.Withapressofhishipsagainsther
sex,shemeltedabitmore.Aflareofarousalignitedandspreadthroughherbody.With
asharpinhalation,shetookthescentofhimintohernose.Helingeredthere:leather,
man,cypress,mystery.Theurge—theache—topressupandmeethimgrippedher.
“Youpuzzleme,too,”hemurmuredagainstherskin,pretendingnottonoticehow
shetensedagainsthim.“Youtookabigriskindiggingbeyondyourownuncertaintyand
startingaTVshowthatencouragespeopletoexploretheirsexuality,whateveritis.But
youhesitatetoexploreyourown.Why?”
“Iexplored.I’mjustnotsureIwanttobe…helddownorrestrainedor—”
“Tiedtomybed?Youlikebeingatmymercy.”
“Idon’twanttoworkthatway!It’snotnormal.”
“It’sperfectly‘normal’nottowantstraightvanillasex.You’renotwiredforthat,
cher.”
“I’vegottobe.Iwanttobe!”
BeforeJack,she’dneverhadamanbringhertomultipleorgasms.Itdidn’tseem
possiblethathewasonlyabletobecausehetiedherdownandfilledherheadwith
wickedsuggestionsofsubmissionandotherdirtydeedsshehadonlyfantasizedabout.
Thatwasn’tit.Anywayhetouchedherwouldbemind-blowingbecauseshefoundthe
manhimselfirresistible.Thepleasurehegaveherhadnothingtodowithhis
domination.
“Iknowyouwishyouwere.”Hesmoothedatangleofwild,flame-coloredhairback
fromherface.“Butifyou’dletme,I’dhelpyou.Iwanttoshowyouthatyourdesiresare
notonlyperfectlynormal,buttotallywonderful.”
“You’reoutofyourmind.”
“You’reburyingyourheadinthesandandwastingyourselfonwhatyouwanttobe
true,ratherthanwhatis,”hegrowled,frustrationtighteninghismouth.
Morganshookherhead.No.Athousandtimesno.
Butshefearedhewasright.Somethingdeepinsideherfloweredathiswords.Hope,
need,yearning.Itwasallthere,everybitshe’dtriedtopushdown,blockfromher
consciousmind.Apartofher—abigpart—wantedtogobbleupeverythinghehadto
offer.
“Whyareyourunningfromyourself?”
Andrew’suglyslursreplayedinMorgan’shead,slashingdeepatherself-confidence.
You’redepraved.Onlyawhorewantsthat!
Asthetensionrampedupinherbody,sodidJack’sgriponherwrists.Hedrewone
handfromherowntoslideagainsthernakedcheek.Thewarmthofhispalmagainsther
coolskinbroughthercompletelybacktothepresent.BacktothefactthatJacklayontop
ofher,hisbigbodytautandtenseandspreadout,completelycoveringher.
“Whyareyouthewayyouare?”shechallenged.“Doestherehavetobeareason?”
“Icancuffyoutothisbed,”hegrowled.“Orderyoursweetsubmission,fuckyouhalf
thenightandgetyouoffhalfadozentimes.”
Desiregougedherbellylikeahotswordathisterrible,provocativewords.Morgan
closedhereyes,grittedherteeth,ignoringherdampeningsex,andshookherhead.“The
onlythingIwantyoutogetisthehelloffme.”
Shebuckedbeneathhim,tryingtothrowhimoffherbody.Hedidn’tbudge.
“Icanfeelyournipplesstabbingmychestandyourpussygettingallsweetanddamp
forme.I’mright,andyouknowit.”
“Iknowyou’repushy!MaybeIdon’twanttobeorderedorboundormadetosubmit.
MaybeIjustwanttobetouched.Held.Intheregularway.”
Heraisedadarkbrow.“Youthinkyouwantvanillasex?”
“Traditional,”shecorrected.“Absolutely.”
Jackhesitated,hisdarkeyesscanningherface.Thedisbeliefetchedthereplayed
havocwithhercomposure.
“Wehavesome…chemistry.I’mnotdenyingthat,”sherattled.“Ijustthinkwe’dfind
plentyofpleasuretogetherwithouttheropesandcommands.”
Staring,Jackappearedtobesortingthroughthepossibilities.Quickly,hecametoa
conclusion.Andhesmiled.
Shedidn’ttrustthatwide,white-teethedCajungrinforaninstant.
“Asyouwish,”hepurred.“Vanillaitis,cher.”
Hiscapitulationwastooeasy.Nowshereallydidn’ttrusthim.“Youmeanthat?”
“Oui.You’llgetnothingbutkisses,gentlefondling,andstraightmissionary
penetration.”
Jackmadeitsounddull,damnit,anditwasn’t.Itwouldn’tbebetweenthem.Still,
someweirdstabofdisappointmentachedlikeapaininhergutthathe’dacquiescedso
easily.
Gosh,didsheeversoundcontrary.She’dwonherway.Sheoughttobethrilled.
“Thankyou,”Morganwhispered.
Heshruggedandshotheranironicsmile.“Iaimtoplease.”
Ignoringthehitchofdisquietbrewinginsideher,shesmiledbackasJackreleased
herwrists,movedhislegstoallowherownmorefreedom.Thetautcoilofhisspine
relaxedandhesettledontopofher,elbowsbracinghimoneithersideofherhead.
Jackglidedgentlethumbsdownhercheekbonesandloweredhismouthtohers.Soft.
Likeaghost,hislipswhisperedoverherown,neithergivingnortaking.Merelyexisting,
soothingwithasweetpressoflips,ofbreaths.
Morganclosedhereyesandtriedtosinkintothetenderrhythmofthekissthat
flowedandlulledandseduced.
Nice.Wonderful,even.Butshewanted…moreofit.
Ittooktwototango,soshecouldfixthat.ReachingaroundJack’shead,shefiltered
herfingersthroughthesoftspikesofhisshorthairandpressedhislipsdownonhers.
Hegavehermore—pressure,access,passion.Shemoanedinthebackofherthroat.
Thekisswastimeless,endless.Thesweetexchangeofsighs,thegentleslideof
tongues,thetotalimmersionofhersensesinhimasamanallfilledher.Desirerosein
liltingwavestowashasoothingsortofwantoverher.Shecouldn’twaittobecloser,to
touchhim…butitwasn’texactlysexual.
Minutesslidby,oneintotheother.Still,Jackdidnothingmorethankissher,sweep
hispalmsacrosshercheek,hershoulder.Thewantinsideherbegantobuildtoasoft
crescendo.Somethinginherdemandedmore.Again,shetookit.
NudgingJacktoherside,Morgannippedherwaydownhisjaw,thenpulledawayto
tugatthebeltofhisknitrobe.Shepartedthegrayjerseymaterialparted.Itlandedina
heaponthefloor.
Beneath,sheworethenaughtybloodredlingeriewithcutoutsthatrevealedbothher
nipplesandsex.WhatwouldJackthink?
Amentalimageofhisgrowloflustfiredher.Shepicturedhisfierceneedovertaking
him,compellinghimtopinherdown,clutchherthighs,spreadheropenashethrusthis
waydeepinsideherwithalotofpassionandverylittlemercy…
No!No,theywereherefortraditionalsex.
Shakenbyherwaywardthoughts,shesenthimanuncertainglance.Jacksuckedina
sharpbreathandhiseyesheatedfromawarmhearthfiretoatoastybonfire.
“You’rebeautiful,cher.”Hecaressedtheslopeofherbreastwiththebackofhis
fingers,toyingwiththelacearoundthebra’scutouts,skirtingaroundhernipple.
“Doyoulikeit?”
“Verymuch.”Heleanedintodroponesweetkissonhershoulder.
Morganfrowned.“You’renottouchingme.”
Jackknewwhatshewanted.Hehadto.Theabilitytoreadherbodywasonereason
shefoundhimvirtuallyirresistible.Besidesthefactthathewasbrave,couldbe
charming,daring,funny,ortender.Buthealwaysknewjusthowtoturnheron.
“Howwouldyoulikemetotouchyou?”
“Don’tplaygames,”shebitout.
“Never.Iwantyourhappiness.I’mtryingtomakesureyougettheexperienceyou
need.”
“Just…touchme.Makelovetome.Youunderstandthat.”
Hegrinned.“Myunderstandingandyoursaredifferent.I’minsomewhatunfamiliar
territory.Ihaven’tdone…traditional,”hesaid,usingherword,“inyears.Andneverwith
you.You’llhavetohelpmeout.”
Morgancrossedherarmsoverherchest.“You’rebeinguncooperative.”
“I’mdeferringtoyourwishes.”Annoyancetingedhisvoice.“Tellmewhatyouwant,
andI’lldomybest.”
“Touchmybody,kissme—anythingyou’dnormallydowithoutropesordemandsor
pain.”
Jacklookedupattheceiling,appearingtoponderherwords.“Thatgivesmearange
ofactivitiestochoosefrom.I’lltry.”
Mollifiedbyhisseemingwillingness,MorganleanedforwardandpeeledoffJack’s
shirt,revealingthehardslabsofhispectoralsandthefirmridgesofhiswashboardabs
sheathedinsoft,goldenbrownskin.Unabletoresist,shesuckedhisflatmalenippleinto
hermouth.Shelaveditwithhertongue,pulledpastherlipstonipatitwithherteeth.
Hesuckedinasuddenbreath,andshesmiledtoseetheerectionbeneathhisjeans
takeshapeagain.Butasshebackedawaytogaugehisreaction,hemerelystaredather
withaheatedquestion.
“Doingsomethinglikethattomewouldbegreat,”shesaid,tryingtoanswer.
Nodding,Jackreachedoutandpluckedhernipplewithhisthumbandfinger.Gentle
swirlsofsensationmadetheirwayfromherbreasttoherabdomen.Whenherepeated
theprocesswithherotherbreast,hegarneredthesameresults.
Standinghardnow,thenubsofherbreastsdemandedattention.
“Jack…”sheentreated.
Withoutaword,heclosedhismoutharoundonenipple,circleditwithhistongue,
suckedthebeadpasthislips…thenreleasedit.Again,hedidthesametoherother
breast.Sensationbegantotighteninsideher.Yes,shewanted.Jackmadeherwant—like
crazyusually.
Thiswasn’tusual.Itwas…slow.Butslowwasgood.Longrampuptoanexcellent
climax,right?Alittledelayedgratification.
Exceptitfeltisolatingsincehewasn’ttalkingtoher.
Frowning,sheplacedmorekissesdownthelinebisectinghisamazingabsand
headedstraightforhisfly.Hemadenosound,neithermoannorprotest,whensheeased
hiszipperdownandslippedhisjeansoffhishipsandontothefloor.
Morganmoaned.Helookedunbelievablenaked—asexgodcometolife,justforher.
Onceshe’ddivestedhimofhisclothes,Jackdidthesameforher,easingthebra
strapsoffhershoulders,thenunclaspingthegarmentattheback.Heplantedtiny,
hungrykissesonherbellyashepulledhercrotchlesspantiesoffherbodyandtossed
themacrosstheroom.
Finally,theywerebothgloriouslynaked.Nowtherealpleasurewouldbegin.
Jackkissedheroncemore,trailinghisfingerthroughhercleavage,thentracingher
nipple.Sensationtingleditswaythroughherbreast.Morganarchedintohistouch.Itfelt
good,Jack’sfingersonherflesh.Shewanted…more.
Easingdownherbody,Jackcapturedthetipofherotherbreastinhismouthand
gaveitalovinglickashispalmsmootheditswayacrossherabdomen.Hestoppedshort
ofhersex,seeminglycontentedbyfondlingthecurveofherwaistandtheslopeofher
hips.
Hecouldn’tpossiblybecontented.Whowouldbe?Andthesilence—itwasreally
gettingtoher.Shefeltclosedofffromhim,withoutanyideaofwhathewanted,whathe
wasthinking,feelingafraidtocommunicateherneedstohiminthemidstofthehush.
Frustrated,Morganreacheddownbetweenthemtograbhiscock.Mostlyhard,always
thick,itfilledherhandandthensome.Shegaveahardlittletugonit,rubbingher
thumbacrossthedry,sensitivehead.
Heclosedhiseyesandpressedintoherfist.Butsaidnothingelse.Didnothingelse.
Soshepumpedhim,strokingherhandupanddownthethickerectioninherhand.
Hegrew,hardened.Anotherpassofherthumbovertheheadofhispenisprovedhewas
stilldry.Usuallytheslitintheheadweptwithneedalmostfromtheinstantshetouched
him.
Bitingtheinsideofherlip,Morgancameupwithaplanto…engagehiminthe
process.
Sherolledhimtohisback.LeavingatrailofdemandingkissesacrossJack’sskin,
Morganmadeherwayfromhisnipples,suckingandnippingthemagain,downhis
abdomen,whichtensedbeneathherlips,allthewaytohiscock.Sheliftedthe
appendagewithherhand,swipinghertongueacrossthepurpletip,tracingthethick
veinsdecoratingtheshaftwithherfingers,thenslidingherpalmdowntocuphisballs.
Jacktensed,moanedalmostsilently,andclosedhiseyes.
Whattheheckwashethinking?Whatdidhewant?Giventheirlackofinteraction,
MorganwonderedifJackwouldcareifsheleftthebedandmeanderedintothekitchen.
“Doesthatfeelgood?”shewhisperedagainsthisstiffsex.
“Hmmm.”Henodded.
Thenheansweredagainbystealinghernippleintohismouthandgivingitagentle
tugwithhislips.Pleasant…butnotearthshattering.NotwhatJackusuallydidforher.
WhenMorganwouldhavecuppedherhandbehindhisheadtoforcemorepressure
totheembrace,Jackrolledhertoherbackandslidhisfingersthroughhersex.Shewas
damp,notdripping.
Withgentlefingers,headministeredacarefulbrushacrossherclit,thenslipped
slowlyintoherfolds.
Thatwasnice.Nodenyinghistouchmadehermelt.Itjustwasn’t…mind-stealingly,
toe-tinglinglywonderful,likeusual.Whatwasgoingonhere?
Hisfingersplayedinsideher,thumbmanipulatingthatbuttonofsensationatthetop
ofhersex.ArousalclimbedanothersweetnotchatthethoughtofJack’shandsonher
pussy.Helikedthatword.Andwhenhesaidittoherinbed,apartofhermindrevolted
againstthecruditybut…shealwaysmelted.
“AmIwet?”sheasked.
“Yes.”
“Whatpartofme?”sheaskedcoyly,wishinghewouldtalkinthatlowrumbleofa
voicethatheldallthesexualityofawildmidnightcouplingenshroudedinlust
“Shhh.”
Thenheclosedhiseyes,shuttingheroutagain.Atleastshefeltthatway,despitethe
factthathisfingersteasedherinnerwallswithaslideofhisfingertipsandthecaressofhisthumb.
Underhisstimulation,shegrewwetter.Herbodytingledinsomegreatplaces.
Usually,herveryskinscreamedforJack—allofhimtocometoher,invadeher,driveher
upthemountainofneedandpleasureuntilshefelloffthecliff.Now,shewanted
something—anything,damnit—moreintense.Somethingthatprovidedadeeper
connectiontohim.
“Talktome.”Shepouted.
“Youlookgorgeous,andyoufeelwonderful,”hemurmured.
“Whatdoyouwant?”
“Topleaseyou.”Herubbedherclitwithhisthumbagain.“Doesthatfeelgood?”
Morgandidn’tanswer,didn’tknowwhattosay.Itfeltfine,justnotasfineasJack
usuallymadeherfeel.Infact,itfeltalarminglylikethetimesshe’dhadsexwithSean
andBrentandAndrew.Good…justnotgreat.
Heopenedhiseyesandslicedastareofhotchallengeather.“Ordidyouneed
somethingelse?”
Thejerkwaschallengingher,asifheknewthiswasn’trockingherworldlikehe
usuallydid.Andshecouldn’tsaythatitwasn’tbecausehewasn’ttrying.He’d
stimulatedhernipplesandcontinuedtoplungehisfingersinsidehersex,trailthepadof
histhumbacrossherclit.Desirewasbuilding…butsomethingwasmissing.
“Youinsideme,”shewhispered.“That’swhatIneed.”
“Alwaysmyfavoriteplacetobe.”
Withasmile,Jacksheathedhimselfwithacondomfromthenightstand,thenrolled
ontopofher,asteamykissonhislipsashecoveredhermouth.Anewswellofdesire
rolledinherbellyasJackprobedatherentrance.
Inonesmoothstroke,Jackeasedin,glidingallthewaytotheendofherchannel,
fillinghercompletely.Morgansuckedinabreathasthelengthandgirthofhiserection
caressedsensitivenerveendingsinsideher.
Slowly,hewithdrew,easingoutallthewaytothetip,thenstrokedinsideagaininone
smoothglide.Yes,thatwasnice.Heavenly.Desireinchedupanotch.
Didheenjoythis?Washefeelingpleasure?Morganwishedhe’dsaysomething,
moan—anythingtoletherknow.
Silence.
In,out,in,outwithsoft,evenslidesofhiscock.Theachebuiltslowly,spiralingup.
Sheclampeddownonhimaspressurebuiltandneedmounted.Morganstrainedtomeet
Jackthrustforthrust.
Yummy…except,damn,shewishedhe’dsaysomething.Usuallyshefelthimswell
insideher,sawhimgrappletokeephiscontrolashisbodytensedandsweatrolleddown
histemple.Today,justsmoothstrokesbuildingtoasoftpeak.
Whywouldn’tJacksaysomething?She’dhadmoreinteractionwiththevibrator
she’dreluctantlybought.
Sheshovedthethoughtoutofhermindandclutchedthehardbunchofmuscles
alonghisspine,pressingneedyfingersintohisdampbackuntilshegrippedhisassand
pulledhimindeeper,tryingtomakehisfleshcrashintoherswithurgencyandforce.
Almost…almostthere.Butnotquite.Sheletoutafrustratedmoan,whichhe
swallowedwithhiskiss.
“Jack,”shepanted.“Jack.”
“Youneedtocome?”
“Please,”shemoaned,nailsdiggingintothecheeksofhisass.
Bendinghisknees,hewidenedthepartofherlegsandpushedhimselfonhiselbows,
changingtheangleofhisthrust.Thefatheadofhiscockrubbedagainstthatsensitive
spotonherinnerwalls.
Needspiked,closingintoaballofsensationcenteredbehindherclit.Sweetwitha
sharpedgeortwo,itshouldhavebeenenoughtosendherover.Butstillshecouldn’t
come.
Jackreachedforhernipplesandfondledthemwithgentlefingers,addingtothe
downpourofsensationsscatteringoverher.Ashisstiffsexcontinuedtorubandpress
onthatsensitivespot,hergriponhimtightened.Pressurebuiltinsideher,herheartbeat
begantoechoinherhead.Now,now,now,itdemanded.
Andstillshecouldn’tcome.
ThenJacksaidthemagicwords.“Comenow,sweetheart.”
Shereleased,theballoftensionlifting,shimmering,thendissipating.Itwasn’ta
burstorarushofexplosion.Itwasasoftcresting,asmoothdissolvingofthebuildup.
Aboveher,hetensedandmoanedgentlyinherear.
Asaclimax,itfelt…anticlimatic.Betterthanshe’dachievedwithanypreviouslover,
yes.Butnottheamazing,bonegrinding,mind-blowingstarburstsofsensationJackhad
neverpreviouslyfailedtogiveher.
Damnit,shefeltlikecrying.Likestompingherhandsandfistsallovertherumpled
beduntilallthetensioninsideofhereruptedandshespewedthelavaofherlustand
frustration.Untilhermindandbodyfeltwearyandsatedandbeyondhappy.
Whatthehellwaswrongwithher?
Jackwithdrewfromher,disposedofthecondom,thenlaydownbesideheragain,
takingherhandinhis.
“Youenjoyyourtraditionalsex,cher?”
Tooquickforherliking,MorganrememberedJacktellingherthatshewasn’twired
fortraditional.He’donlygonealongwiththisnowtoprovehispoint.Andshe’dknown
thatfromthebeginning,refusingtoacceptthatmaybe…justmaybe,he’dbeenright.
“Didyou?”heprodded.
Morgansighed.Itwastimetomakeadecision:Eitherkeeprunning,keepdenying
howmuchshecravedandrespondedtoJack’sdominationoracceptthat,atleastwhen
shewaswithhim,sheneededmorethantraditional.
Shedrewinaraggedbreathandbrushedawaythescaldofherhottears.Hisdark
gazewasatonceapproachable,understanding—andblisteringwithexplicitdesire.
EverythinginsideMorganleaptinresponse.Suddenly,sheknewshehadnochoice
“Pleasetakemetoyourplayroomandfuckmeasyouseefit.”Sheswallowed.“Sir.”
CHAPTERTWELVE
Jackstilled,everythinginsidehimfroze.Shock,relief,jubilation,andsomethinglike
warm,sweethoneyspreadingthroughhischestalltumbledoveroneanotherinarushof
emotionhewasn’taccustomedto.Despiteallthat,hepaused.
Morgan’seyesmistedwithtears.Herchintrembled.Sighing,Jackrestrainedhimself
fromsnatchingherintohisarmsanddartingdownthehalltolockherbehindhis
playroomdoor.Butnotwithoutgreateffort.Hewasn’tna?veenoughtobelievethatone
mediocrevanillafuckhadconvincedMorganshewasabornsubmissive.Shehadlayers
andlayersofguiltaboutsomethinghedidn’tunderstand.Andshewouldn’treachher
fullpotentialorfullhappinessuntilshegotthroughit.
Sinceheplannedtomakeherhis—andwouldhappilykillBrandonoranyotherson
ofabitchwhothoughtshebelongedtothem—Jackfiguredhe’dbettergettothebottom
ofMorgan’sissuesnow.Hehoped,rightnow,soshecouldbegintoacknowledgehimas
hermaster,herlover,themanshecoulddependontocareforherinallways.
Jackleanedinandkissedherforehead.“Why?”
Shedidn’tanswerforalongtime.Instead,shesatup,drewherlegsuptohernaked
chest,andsetherheadonherknees.Hedidn’tprod,didn’ttouch,justwaited.
Finally,sheliftedhermistygazetohimagain,provingshe’dbeensheddingsilent
tears.“YousaidIwasn’twiredforvanillasex.I–Ididn’twanttobelieveit,butIthink
thatjustprovedyourpoint.”
Damn.She’djustmadetwoadmissionshehadtodealwith—andhehadtotread
carefully.Easyfirst,withaslideintothemoredifficult.
“HowdidIprovemypoint?”
Thosearchedgingerbrowsofherssnappedtogethertoformascowl,which
questionedhissanity.“Didoursexjustblowyoursocksoff?”
Hesmiled,doinghisbesttokeepthemoodlightwhilehecould.“I’mnotwearing
any.”
Morganwasn’tamused.“Soyouthinkthisisfunnynow?”
“No,cher,”hesoothed.“Itdidnotblowmysocksoff,butIdidn’texpectitto.I
acceptedlongagothatIdon’tlikevanillaanything,evenicecream.Tellmewhatitwas
likeforyou.”
Asubtlecommand.Morganhesitated,grappled.Thenshecapitulated.
“Whatwedid…itwasnice.Pleasant,likeapicnic.Ilikedjustbeingclosetoyoumore
thanIlikedtheactualsex.”Tearspooledinhereyes,andherblueeyesreflectedturmoil.
“Ididn’texpectthat.Ikeptwishingfor…more.Forawordorcommand—some
indicationofwhatyouwanted,howyoufelt.Somethingthatconnectedus.Something
moreintense.”
ThereliefandjubilationrushedbackoverJack.Whenhe’dagreedtosexwithout
domination,he’dhopedthiswouldbeMorgan’sresponse…buthehadn’tknownfor
sure.Shewasturningouttobeeverythinghe’dbelieved,wantedtofindforyears.Still,
hehadtotreadcarefully.
“Yourpastvanillaexperiences,weretheysatisfying?”
Shecasthimavaguelyguiltyexpression.“No.I…no.”
Ah.Therewasawealthofmeaningthere.Hecouldhavechastisedherforimagining
thatshecouldenjoysimplesex,butshehadtoexperiencethedifferenceforherself.One
ofthequalitiesheadoredaboutherwasthatshehadastrongmindandwill,andshe
wantedtousethem.Evenifitmadewaitingforhertocatchontothisdiscovery
frustrating.
“Whydidyouthinkitwouldbedifferentwithme?”
Morganliftedoneshoulderinahalfheartedshrug.“Youaffectmemorethananyone
else.Ijustthought…itwasyou.Thatitwouldbedifferentwithyou.Before,Irarely
reachedorgasm.IfIhadn’tbeenwithyou,youknow,intheotherway,Iwouldhave
beenelatedbywhatjusthappened.ButsinceIknowhowexplosivewecanbewhen…”
“Idominateyou?”heprompted.
“Yes.”Sheflushed.”Irealizedthatitwasaboutyou,atleastinpart.Justbeingnear
youturnsmeon.It’salsoaboutthewayyouarewithme:demanding,soknowledgeable
aboutmymindandbody.Youmanagetowrapmyminduparoundamillionfantasies
untilI’msohot…”
JackforcedhimselftoreinintheI-told-you-sosmilethreateningtobreakacrosshis
face.Tooearlytosmile.Hehadtomakesurehe’dreallyreachedher.“Becauseyouneed
yourbiggestsexorgan,yourbrain,involved.Vanilladoesn’treallydothat.Dominance
andsubmissioncanbeagameorawayorlife,dependingonhowseriouslyyouplay.But
itabsolutelykeepsyourmindengagedwithyourbody.Thepromiseofpleasurecanbe
everybitasarousingasthepleasureitself—maybemore,asyoufoundoutfromdoing
withoutamindfucktonight.”
Shehesitated,bitthatlush,puffedlipthatneverfailedtomakethemaninhim
notice.Thenunderstandingbrightenedhersultrybluegaze.“Yeah.Ikeptmissingthe
mentalpiece.Knowingwhatyouwerethinking,hearingyourvoiceurgingmeon.”
Nowshewasgettingit.Jacksmiled.“Whatdoesyourcurrentfiancédoforaliving?”
Morganfrownedattheout-of-nowherequestion.Hesitated.“He’sananalystforsome
organizationinthegovernment.I’mnotsupposedtoknowexactlywhoorwhathe
studies.”
InterestinginformationJackfiledawayforlater.“Andsexwithhim…?”
Hehadtogrithisteethtokeepthesnarloutofhisvoice.ThethoughtofBrandon
touchingMorgan…Brandonmightbetallerthanhim,butinthearmyJackhadnever
failedoncetokickhisassatanything.Hewastemptedtoremindhisformerpalofthat
factagain.
Morganshookherhead,fierytressesspreadingoutacrossherpaleshoulders.Her
auburnlashesfluttered,hidingherexpression.“We’venever…”
Never?Jackexhaledinashockedrush.He’dfuckedMorganbeforeherownfiancé
had?Sweetrevengehadjustgottensweeter,yes.ButthethrillrushingthroughJackhad
nothingtodowithrevengeandeverythingtodowiththeknowledgethatBrandonhad
nevertouchedthewomanhefeltwashisandhisalone.
Andshewouldbehis…butfirst,hehadtogetthroughthehardpartofthe
conversation.
“Idon’tthinkyoureallybelievedthatvanillawouldbebetterwithme.Youhoped.
Thequestionis,why?Iknownothingaboutyourcollegeboyfriend,butyourchoiceofa
profootballplayerandaTVproducertellsmeyouwere,evenunconsciously,seekinga
manofsomepowerandself-possession.Right?”
HerlittlegasptoldJackthathe’dbothguessedcorrectlyandsurprisedher.“Yes.”
“SoyouendedyourengagementwiththeTVproducer…when?”
“AndrewandIsplitupbecause…”
Hervoicetrembled.Shelookedawaywithagrimace.Definitelysomethinghere.After
he’dbroughtMorganhereandquestionedheronhersexualpast,she’drefusedto
answerquestionsaboutAndreworwhyithadended.
“Because?”
Shelookedathimwithtormentedblueeyes,andJackfeltthatlooklikeapunchin
thegut.Yes,hewasgoingtofinallygetsomeanswers.ButitwasgoingtocostMorganto
saythis.Hegrabbedherhandandsqueezed,hopingshe’dunderstandhissilentsupport.
“Alotofreasons.Butsex…Thatwasn’tgoingwellbetweenus.Icouldn’torgasm
withhim.”Shefaltered,shookherhead.“IrememberthinkingthatIenjoyedhissense
ofhumorandhisintelligence,butwhenhetouchedme,itwasasifhethoughtIwould
break.Itwasalwayssosoftandsweet.Andsilent.Wedidn’t…connect.Ididn’tfeel
muchofanything.”
Jackcradledahandbehindherheadandstrokedthetangledsilkofherfieryhair.He
wantedtoreassurehernow,makeherunderstandthatnotrespondingtosoftandsweet
andsilentdidn’tmakeherwrongorabadperson.Buthecouldn’tinterrupther.Shehad
moretogetout.
“Goon.”
Morgansighed.“Heaskedmewhatwaswrong,howhecouldmakeitbetter.Itrusted
him.Heseemedworldlyandopenminded.SoItoldhimsomeofmyfantasiesI’dnever
toldanyone,fantasiesof…youknowbeingmanhandledandcommanded.ItoldhimI
thoughtabout—”
“Beingboundandfuckedandmadetosubmit,”Jackfinishedforher,evenashisfists
clenchedathissides.He’dbeteverythingheownedthatheknewwhatMorganwould
saynext.“Whatwashisresponse?”
Thistimesheswallowed.Hard.Andsqueezedhereyesshut.Ashimmeringteardrop
squeezedoutofonecorner.Jackwantedtohitsomething.No,someone—Andrew.
“HetoldmeIwasdepraved.Thatonlyadirtywhorewouldwantsuchthings.Hesaid
hewouldn’tstayintherelationshipunlessIgotprofessionalhelpandlearnedtodrive
thosesortsofthoughtsoutofmyhead.”
Professionalhelp?WherewasAndrewrightnow?Nevermindhurtingtheasshole,
Jackwantedtokillthebastardwho’dmadeMorgandoubtherselfandcry.
“Ihopeyoucalledhimeverykindofaprickandtoldhimtogetfucked,”hegrowled.
“Notinthosewords.Ithrewhisringbackathimandtoldhimtokeepit.”Shebither
lip,andahintofmischieflitherblueeyes.“IthinkImayhaveindicatedthatheneeded
togrowarealpenis.”
Jack’slaughterwasfilledwithrelief.Hebroughthercloser,tumblingheracrosshis
lap.“Goodgirl.There’snothingwrongwithyou,cher.”Helookedrightintohereyes,
hopinglikehellshebelievedhim.“Andrewistheonewithproblems,stupidjerkoff.He
didn’tlikethatyouchallengedhismanhood,thatyouwerestronger,thatyouwanted
somethinghewasn’tmanenoughtoprovide.You’renotdepraved.Youneedsomeone
youcantrustwithyoursafetyandpleasure,mind,body,andsoul.Ithinkthatmakesyou
wonderfulandperfect.”
Morgan’sjawtightened.Shefoughtmoretears.Andhedidn’twanthertofightthem.
Timetogetthemout,onceandforall.Hehopedlikehellthey’dbetoobusyfuckinglater
tosuccumbtomoreofthem.
“Tellme,”hecoaxed.“It’sokay.”
“Ijustcouldn’tgethisvoiceoutofmyhead.”Shebrokethen,tearscrestingfromher
eyes,downhercheeks,onecrystaltearafteranother.Sheinhaledraggedly.“Overand
over,IcouldhearhisvoicetellingmehowdepravedIwas.ThatIwasabnormaland—
anddisturbed.ThatIwasawhore.”
Ifthelittleprickwasstandingherenow,evenGodcouldn’thavesavedhimfrom
Jack’srage.Andrewhadnearlydestroyedthisbeautifulwoman’ssexualitytopreserve
hisowndelusionsabouthisadequacy.He’dbedealtwithlater.Jackwouldmakesureof
that.Morganneededhimnow.
“You’renothingofthekind.”Hedriedhertearswithhisthumbs,thenkissedeach
dampcheek.“Didyoulikeyourpizzathesamewayhedid?”
Shefrowned.“Hedidn’tevenlikepizza.”
“Therewassomethingdefinitelywrongwiththisguy.”
Morganlaughedthroughhertears,andJackkissedhersweet,swollenmouth.
“Mypointis,cher,noteveryonehasthesametaste.Pizzamaybeoversimplified,but
youunderstand.Don’tlethisvoiceplayinyourheadforanothermoment.”
Anothercommand,asternone.Hedidn’texpecthertoheeditcompletelyrightnow.
ButifhecouldgethisvoiceinherheadtocompetewithassholeAndrew’s,hisownvoice
wouldeventuallyreplaceit.
“A—andmymother.Shortlyaftermyengagementended,shecametovisitme,to
consoleme.Shefoundsomeofmy…books.Eroticoneswithbondageand—”
“Cher,mamasdon’twanttothinkabouttheirdaughtershavingsex,muchlessgood
sex.”
Morganlookedathimwithtear-drenchedeyesandnodded.“Itwasterrible.Igrew
upinareligioushouse.Sexwasdirtytoher.Evil.Tosayshewasshockedbymyprivate
librarywouldbeanunderstatement.”Shebitherlipasfreshtearsthreatened.“She
shoutedthesamethingsasAndrew.Abnormal,d—depraved.”
Andhearingthatfromherownmotherhadhurt.Jacksawthepaletormentallover
herface.
“They’reignorantandmisguided,”hevowed.“Neitherunderstandsthedeepbondof
trustandunderstandingadominantandhissubmissiveforms.Youdo.You’vebeen
lookingforitsubconsciouslyforyears.Nowthatyouhaveit,you’retoosmarttoletitgetaway,aren’tyou?”
Abarehesitation.Atinyone.She’dfeelanot-so-gentlehandonthebackofherass
foritlater,notbecausehedidn’tunderstandherfeelingorherneedtothinkthings
through,butbecauseshehadtostartassociatingherguiltwithunpleasant
consequences.
Butshefinallynoddedinagreement.
“Areyoureadytoshowyourselfthatyouacceptwhoandwhatyouare?”
Morganhesitatedagain.Swallowed.Butshenoddedoncemore.“Yes.”
Jackeasedoffthebedandstoodbesideit,drillingherwithahotstarethatdemanded
understandingandobediencebeforehebenttoretrievethelingeriethey’ddiscarded
earlierwiththeintriguingcutoutshewasdyingtoexplore.Hethrustthegarmentsinto
herhands.
Herwide,weteyeswereabluebeacon,drawinghimtothevulnerabilityshining
there.Shelookedsofuckingyoungwithbare,tear-stainedcheeks.Damn,he’ddonehis
besttobringheroutgently,breakherjustabit.Nowitwastimetoremakeher,ifshe
couldjusttrusthim.
Morganreachedoutandgrabbedhishand,squeezingasshetangledherfingerswith
his.Ashereachedouttostrokehercheek,Jacksawsomethingnewonherface.Hesaw
resolve.
Now,hepermittedhimselfthesmilehe’dheldinearlier.
“Putthesebackon,alongwiththeblackstockings.Knockonthedoorofmy
playroom.Tenminutes.I’llbewaiting.”#
Squaringhershoulders,Morganliftedherhandtotheclosedblackdoorandknocked.
Asthesoundechoeddowntheshadowedhall.Shepushedwhatshewas,orrather
wasn’t,wearingoutofhermind.NomorethoughtsofAndreworhermother.Their
opinionscouldn’tmatter.Shewouldn’tletthem.
Jackhadopenedhereyes.
Hermotherhadbeenashriveledwoman,bittertowardallmen,thankstoSenator
JohnMorganRossbreakingheryoungheart.Andherformerfiancé,sherealized,
focusedhisenergyonfrustration.Andrewhadelevatedangsttoanartform.Hedidn’t
wanttobehappyorfulfilled.Theirrelationshiphadalwaysbeenanemotionalroller-
coasterride,toweringhighsandcrashinglowsallinoneday—onehour,ifAndrewcould
swingit.PeopleontheTurnMeOnsethadcalledhimadramaking.He’dbeen
threatenedbyanyshowofstrengthonherpart,anystrongopinionsheexpressed
Rejectinghersexualityhadbeenhiswayofcreatingthenextcalamityandmakingher
everybitasfrustratedashe’dbeen.
Yes,shecouldstillheartheirvoices,theirslurs,inherhead.Shejustwasn’tgoingto
giveeitherofthemthepowertomakehermiserableanymore.Ifshewasstillnot
completelycomfortablewithhersexuality,Morgansuspectedtimeandanothermanlike
Jack—hewasn’therstokeep—wouldturnaroundherreluctance.
ShepushedasideasharppangatthethoughtofnolongerhavingJack.
Instead,sheconcentratedonherbody,thecoolaironherexposednipples,thebra
liftingupherbreastslikeaproudoffering.Shefocusedonthecrotchlesspantiesthat
didn’tquitecoverherassorstopthegushofmoisturerushingfromhervaginatocoat
herinnerthighs.Shefeltthethigh-highstockingshuggingherineveryway,
emphasizingthesmallsquareofclothcoveringherdampcurls.
Nervous,yes.Butfarmorearoused.Anddeterminednottoexaminewhatsheand
Jackdidorjudgetheiractions.Ifitarousedherandfeltgood,she’djustdoit.
Thatallsoundedgood,butwithoutanyideawhatJackmightwant—demand—from
her,Morganwaited,awareoftheacheoferoticfearandneedbuilding,buildinginside
her.
Jackopenedthedoorwearingblackleatherpants—andnothingelse.
Hisgazewalkedalloverher,startingattheswollenmouthshe’dbeenchewingonfor
thepasttenminutes,downthepaleslopeofherbreasts,glidingovertheflatofher
baredtummy,thenzoominginrightbetweenherthighs,framedbylace,silk,and
fishnet.
Shewatchedhisface.Theheatracedtohiseyes.Thefirmlinesofhisjawgrewtight.
Hergazeskippeddownpastthebunchedgoldenmusclesofhiswidechestand
shoulders,downfarthertothethickerectionthatgrewatrecordspeed.
Despitehernerves,Morgansmiled.
“Iwouldn’tbetoohappyyet.I’mgoingtomakeyourearnmycockandyourorgasms
tonight.”
Hersmilefaltered.Ifhenoticedit,Jacksaidnothing.
“Comeinandsitonthetable.”
“But—”
“NospeakingunlessIgiveyoupermission.Isthatclear?Eithernodorshakeyour
head.”
Stern,intense,beautiful.Morgansupposedsheshouldhavebeenfuriouswithhis
high-handedattitude.Instead,shewascuriousandwetandwanting.Andfilledwithan
electricthrill.
Shenoddedandmadeherwayintotheroom.
Jackswungthedoorwidertoaccommodateher,anditfeltsymbolic.Adooropening.
Shewouldjustembracethispartofherwithoutjudgingit,withoutdwellingonwhat
otherswouldsay.
“Sit,”hebarked.“Iwon’trepeatmyselfagain.”
Morgansnappedtoattentionandbroughtherselfbacktothepresent.Therewouldbe
timeforthinkinglater.Thetimeforobeyingwasnow.Withquicksteps,shemadeher
waytothecenteroftheroomandperchedherassonthetable,scootingbackuntilshe
wasfullyseated.Shecrossedherlegs,clenchingherthighstogethertorelievetheache,
andwaited.
Withahotchallengelightinghiseyes,Jackplacedahandoneachkneeandpriedher
thighsapart,thenwide.“Don’tcrossyourlegstome.Whenwe’realone,they’reopen
wide,signalingyouravailabilityandshowingmeyoursweet,wetpussy.Understood?”
Shewantedtobeangrythathewasgoingtotellherhowtositnow.Itwasdamn
demanding.Overbearing.Andarousingashisstaremadeitswaydowntothewetflesh
heexposed,andhecaressedherwithhisstare.Afreshachetightenedbehindherclit,
gentlypulsingintimewithherheartbeat.
Andsheunderstood.ThiswaswhyshethrilledtoJack’sdomination.Hewasso
focusedonher,soconcentratedontakingherinwitheachsense,ineverywayhecould.
Heenvelopedhermindinthesexualexperiencesothoroughly,shecouldn’tpossibly
think,muchlessthinkaboutanythingelse.Soon,shewouldhaveallhispower,
testosterone,andself-controldirectedatherpleasure.Atthethought,shefeltflushed,
faint.
AndJackhadn’treallyeventouchedher.
“Doyouunderstand?”Jackaskedbetweengrittedteeth.
Morganansweredhimwithanod.
Heturnedawaytoopenafewboxesonthecounterbehindhim.Hestuffed
somethingshecouldn’tseeinthepocketofhispants,thenturnedbacktoherwith
somethinglongandsparklingandgolden.Whenhehelditupforher,shesawitwasa
thickgoldchainwithadanglingruby-studdedheart.Itwasbeautiful.Stunning.Toobig
tobeabracelet,certainly.Tooshorttofitaroundherneckandhavethependantdangle
betweenherbreasts.Whatdidheintend?
“Ifyouagreetowearthis,youagreetobemine.Onlymine.Sexually,youdowhatI
say,whenIsay,howIsay,andwhereIsay.Ifyouputthison,thewordnoleavesyour
vocabulary.Youanswermewithapolite‘Yes,sir.’”
Hestrokedtherubypendantacrossoneexposednipple,thentheother.Thecoldof
thegems,theriotofsensations,forcedhertodrawinatremblingbreath.
“Youmayspeak.Askmequestionsbeforeyouanswer.”
Behis?Fortonight?Thathadtobewhathemeant.Nowaywasthemantalking
forever.
Morganlickedherdrylips,aroused,oh-so-needy.“Ihavenoquestions,sir.Iwantto
beyours.”
Thepulsejumpedatthebaseofhisneck.Heswallowed.HisAdam’sapplebobbed
Thismeantsomethingtohim,andthefactthathecouldn’tquiteconcealittouchedher
heart.Buthereyesdidn’tstoptheirvisualdessert.Herstaremovedontotheveinsroping
hisheavyforearms,bulgedasheformedfists.Hisflatbellytaut,asifhewaspoisedto
springintoaction.Andhiscock.Shehadn’tthoughtitpossiblebutheseemedto
lengthenanotherinch.
“Iwantthat,too,cher.”Hisstareseducedandreveredheratonce.
Palmssweating,Morganlongedtopressherthighstogethertorelievethefresh,
heavyachehe’dcreated…butshedidn’tdare.
“Youunderstandthat,onceIputthisonyou,youareminetotease,punish,torment,
andfuckatwill?”
Yes.Fine.Hurry.Thewaitingwaskillingher.Quickly,shenodded.
“Youknowthatyourentirebodywillbelongtome?”
Again,shenodded.
“ThatanytimeIindicateIwanttomakeuseofyourmouth,yourcunt,oryourass,
youassumethepositionIrequest,nomatterwhat?”
Morganhesitatedforamoment,thennodded.Theunknown,analsex,andanything
elsehecoulddreamup,wouldn’tworryher.ShehadtotrustJacktomakeeverything
good.Godknewhiswordsalonewerereachingintoherdeepestfantasies,pushingher
pastcaution,pastherinhibitions.
Sheshotadeferentialgazeuptohim,hernippleshardasdiamonds.“Yes,sir.”
“Iwilltakecareofyou.Trustmetoknowwhenandhowyouneedmycock.Trustme
tounderstandyourfantasiesandmakeeachofthemcometrue.Trustmetoknowwhen
youneedagoodspankingandwhenyoujustneedmetowrapmyarmsaroundyou.”
Wraphisarmsaroundher?Asifhewould,what?Supporther?Loveher?Hetalked
likehemeantthistobebeyondtonight.Likehedidmeanittobeforever…
“Understand?”Hisvoicewassoft,butnolessdemanding.
Notreally.Butshewastooimpatienttoask.“Yes,sir.”
Withoutanotherword,hesteppedbehindherandclaspedthejeweledpendant
aroundherneck.Itclungtoherlikeachoker,snugbutnotrestrictive.Thependantof
rubiespooledinthehollowatthebaseofherthroat,rapidlywarmingtoherskin.He
walkedaroundthetableagainforapeek.
“Itlooksperfectonyou.”Withagentlefingerskimmingherskin,Jackoutlinedthe
pendant.
Hisgazeneverlefthers.Neverwavered.Aworldofpromiseandsinfulmasterylayin
hiseyes.MorganhadseenJackinalotofwaysinthepastfewdays:angry,asleep,
protective,aroused.Butneverlikethis:possessiveandtotallydetermined.
Morganexhaledaragged,arousedbreath.
“Perfect,”hemurmured.“LiebackandkeepyourlegsspreadsoIcanseethatsweet
pussy.”
Sheonlyhesitatedlongenoughtoremindherselfthatshe’dcomeheretobewith
Jack,toexperiencethewayshecouldmakeherfeel.Toembracehersexuality.
Dark,hungry,hisgazeroamedoverMorgan,heatingherupfromtheinsideout.He
lookedsobig,so…malestandingoverher,thehardridgesofhistorsotaut,defined,
ripplingwitheverybreath.Hermouthwentdry.
Nowallshehadtodowastrusthimwithherpleasure.
Slowly,Morgandidashecommandedandlaidbackonthetable,legsparted.She
wantedtoaskwhathehadplannedforher,forthem.Butsheknewthatwasn’tallowed.
Shehadtotrusthim.Sofarshehad—withherlife.Andshewasstillalive.
Maybeforthefirsttime,totallyalive.
Foralongmoment,hedidnothingbutgazeather,hisdarkstarepenetratingher
body,hermind.Shecouldn’thavelookedaway,evenifshehadwanted.Butbreakingthe
connectionbetweenthemwasthelastthingshedesired.Thejoltofitwaslikealivewire,
stunningher,shakinghertohercore.Breathless.Suspended.Tormentedwith
anticipation.Shewaited.
“Closeyoureyes.”
Oh,whatdidhehaveplanned?Notseeingwhathewasdoing…Morganwasn’tsure
shecouldhandleit.Buttheweightofthechokeraroundherneckremindedherofall
she’dagreedto.ThetwinslashesofJack’sblackbrowswarnedheragainstfurther
hesitation.
Stomachjumping,heartpumping,Morganallowedherlidstofluttershut,concealing
Jackandanythinghemightdofromherview.
Amomentlater,ascrapofsomethingsoftandsilkyfelloverherface.Jackadjustedit
overhereyes,thentieditoffatthebackofherhead.Ablindfold.Shegulped.God,he
meantforhertogointothistotallyblindandgivehimtotaltrust.
Morgantookacalmingbreath.Shewasupforthis.Shecoulddoit,evenifshehadto
disregardthewildthumpofherpulsetobelieveit.
Jackleanedcloser.Shecouldfeelhisheat,scenthisheavenlymuskasheapproached.
Itsoothedher,evenasitmadeherevenmoreawareofherselfasawoman,evenmore
wet.
Hislipssettledoverherslikeawhisper.Abrushofheaven,aslideofhottaste,a
forbiddenbrushofhistongue.“Thankyouforyourtrust.”
Sherelaxedintothetableandarchedhernecktoreceivemoreofhiskisses.
Instead,shefeltthegripofhisfingersaroundherrightwrist.Heliftedherhand,
easingitafewinchestoherright.Shefeltcoldmetalarounditaclicklater.Nottight…
butnotgivingeither.Therewasnowayshewasmovingthisarm.Herepeatedthe
processwithherotherwrist.Thenheboundheranklesinthesamewayhehadher
wrists,lockingthemoneithersideofthetable,kneesbent,thighswide.
“Intime,”hemurmured,“and,I’msure,afteryourfairshareofpunishments,you’ll
learntotrustmeasyoushould.”
Thesoftnoteofcensurereverberatedthroughherbellylikeawarning.Withoutbeing
told,sheknewshehadpunishmentcomingnow.
Still,thesharprapofhisfingersslappingthemoundofherpussyshockedMorgan.
Thesensationvibratedthroughher,downhernetherlips.Thentheachecenteredright
underherclit—butitwasn’tpain.Pushingpastthealarmanddesirefloodinghermind
atonce,aferociousneedseizedherbody,concentratedbetweenherlegs.
Jackrepeatedtheprocessthistime,justafractionharder.Theferociousachebecame
monstrous,grippingherinitsclutcheswithanunavoidablegrasp.Morganbitherlipto
holdinhermoan.
Thenoncemore,theflatofhishandstruckthepadofherpussy,withmoreforce.
Sensationzingedthroughher,ricochetingthroughhervagina.Equalpartspainand
pleasure.Theviseofneedtighteneduntilitstrangledherthoughts.Themoanlodgedin
herthroatbrokepastherresistanceandfilledthesilencebetweenthem.
“Onemorelikethat,andthepainwilloutweighthepleasure.I’llreservethat…unless
youhesitateagain.Understood?Shakeyourheadornod.”
Therumbleofhisvoicedugdowninsideher,incitingafreshwaveofwant.He’d
alreadyreducedherentireexistencetoherbeatingheart,herpoundingpussy,andthat
linethatseemedtorunbetweenthemwithsomelinkshedidn’tunderstand.
Finally,sherealizedthatJackwaswaitingforananswer.Shenodded.
“Good.Tonight,I’dratherpleasureyouthanpunishyou.”
Footstepsacrossthehardwoodfloortoldherhe’dturnedaway,crossedtheroom
Washeleaving?No!She’dpushedawayherinhibitions,resolvedtoembracewhathe
wantedtosharewithher.Dismaystoleoverher,andshetriedtofightthecuffsather
wristsandankles.
Thenthefootstepsannouncedhisreturn,measuredinaprecisemilitarylikecadence.
“Youaren’tgoinganywhere.NeitheramI,”hevowedandplacedhispalminthe
centerofherstomach.Hisskinwaslikeahotbrand,promisingmore,vowingtomake
hercompletelyhis.
Morganstilled,morerelievedthanshewouldhavethoughtpossible.
ThewetslideofJack’stonguebrushedacrosstheswellofherbreast.Hisfinger
trailedagentlepathdowntheinside,thenaround,tracingthenaughtycutoutinherbra,
soclosetohersensitiveareola.Shearchedininvitation.
Heignoredher.
“Yournipplesarethepalestblushingpink,”hewhispered,hishotbreathfanning
rightagainstoneofthetightbeads.“Theyturnasweet,palerosewhenyou’rearoused.”
Evenasheteasedherwiththepossibilityofhismouthoverherbreast,hisfingerwas
onthemoveagain,drawinginaseeminglyrandompatternacrossherchest,downher
abdomen,thenbackup.“Yourfrecklesarefascinatingtotrace,andoneday,I’llspend
hoursfindingeachandeveryoneandlickingthemuntilyoubegmetofuckyou.Butnot
now.”
God,hiswordswerelikethrowinggasonabonfire.Theachehe’dstartedbetween
herthighsstillgrippedherinitsunyieldingclutch,sostrong,sweatbrokeoutonher
forehead.Hertoescurledagainsttheneed.Andnowherbreastsweretight,screaming
forhimtodosomething—anything—toeasetheunforgivingpleasuredemanding
releaseinsideher.
Andshe’dbarelybeenherefiveminutes.
“Tonight,mymissionistoseehowdarkIcanmakethosesweetpinknipples.”
BeforeMorgancouldevenponderwhatthatmeant,Jack’stongueslidoverahard
point,once,twice.Heprimeditwithunhurriedstrokes,sendingherheartrateinto
turmoil.Certainhemeanttoslowlykillher,Morganmoaned.
Jacksuckedthepeakwithoutmercy,asifhecouldinhaleheratonce.Theclaspofhis
teethbothaboveandbelowhernippleanchoredherinplaceforthehotsuctionofhis
mouth.Equalpartspleasureandpainexplodedsensationthroughherbreasts,darting
outinalldirectionsthroughherbodyuntil,likeaflash,itburstbetweenherlegs.
Shegasped.Inresponse,hebitharder,suckedmorestronglyinseeminglyendless
draws.Freshpainbombardedherlikeicypinpricks,drawinghernipplestighter.She
whimpered.
“Takethepain,cher.Takeitforme.Youcan.”
Disappointinghimwasnotanoptionforsomereason.Nodding,Morganpressedher
lipstogether.
Jacksweptthesamenipplebackinhismouth,clampingdowntightlywithhisteeth
againashedrewonherbreastwithremorselesssuction.Thepainshotthroughher
systemagain.Thistime,athicksliceofpleasurefollowed,shockingandscrumptious.
Thewhimperthathadescapedheroncebeforebecameamoan.
Hernippleswouldbesoretomorrow—andshedidn’tcare.Whathewasdoingmade
herbodyachyyetsoar,madehertremblewitheroticfearandsexualneedallatonce.
Thiswaseverythingshe’deverdreamedinherdeep,darkmidnightdesires.
Amomentlater,Morganfeltthegripofhisfingerstormentingherothernippleina
tightpress.Hetwistedthehardbud,wrenchinganothermoanoutofher.Atightpinch
coincidedwithaneroticbiteonherothernipple.
Shegasped.
“That’sit,”hecoaxed,easingaway.“Pretty.”
Heteasedthewetnipplewiththesoftpadofhisthumb.Pleasure,pain,pleasure
again.Thelinesblurred.AllsheknewwashowmuchshewantedJacktocoverher,fill
her,makehercome.
Makeherhis,Godhelpher,formorethantonight.
Liftingherhips,Morganwriggledthem,enticinghim,silentlypleading.
Laughterrumbledfromhischest.“Oh,I’mtempted.Butnotyet,cher.Notforalong
while.”
Shesoundedafreshmoanofprotest—untilsomethingsharpwithlittlemetalteeth
bitintoherdampnipple.Agasptorepasthermoanandshoveditswaypastherthroat.
“Oh,God!”shebreathedagainstthepain.
“Iknow.Takeadeepbreath.Ihaveafeelingyou’llcometoappreciatethebiteofthe
clamp…soonerratherthanlater.”
No.Itwashorrendouslypainful,borderingoncruel.Shetookadeepbreath.Itdidn’t
help.Anotherbreath.
Jackloweredhismouthtotheothernipple,theonehisfingershadtoyedwith
previously.Asoftsuck,agentlelave.Thecontrastsbetweensensationssenthersoaring.
Painbalancedwithpleasure.Theachebehindherclittightenedagain,sointense.Her
vaginaclenched,soachinglyempty.Morganarchedup.Herhipsmovedrestlessly.What
washappeningtoher?
Shehadneverbeensoarousedinherlife.
Thepainbitingintoherclampednipplebegantoeaseasshegrewaccustomedtothe
sensation.Thestingturnedtoapressurizednumbness.AndJack’sattentiontothehard
littlepointinhismouthgrewrougher.
“Jack!”shecriedout,herfingersdiggingintothetable’sblackleatherandthe
paddingbeneath.
Forasplitsecond,hismouthleftherbreast.Heslappedtheflatofhisfingersacross
hermoundagain.Sensationratchetedthroughherbody.Acrescendooftinglesrosein
herbodylikeascream.Apendingclimaxbubbledbetweenherlegs,andsheraisedher
hipsinofferingagain.
“That’snotwhatyoucallme,”hegrowled.
“Sir,”shepanted.“Sir,please…”
“I’llfuckyou,butnotuntilI’mready.Notuntilyou’reready.NowbequietbeforeI
turnyouoverandspankyourass.”
Hiswordsdashedherhopesforrelief.Shesankherteethdeepintoherlip,tryingto
holdinagroanofprotest.ItwassoonforgottenasJackreturnedhisteethtohernipple,
nippeddown,suckedhard,andgroaned.
Hisvoicevibrateddeepinsideher,shootingallthewaytoherclit.Shewasona
torturerackofpleasure.Amazingsensationspiledoneontopoftheother,smothering
anythingthatresembledthoughtordissent.Sheachedbeyondanythingshe’dever
dreamed,anythingshethoughtpossible.Andhehadyettoeventouchhervagina,much
lesspenetrateit.
Thenanotherclampbitintoherothernipple,diggingintoskin,dredgingupeven
moreresponse.Afireballofpleasuredartedstraightfromherbreasts,downbetweenher
legs,addingtotheconflagrationalreadyburning.IfJacktouchedherthere,evenonce,
shefearedshewouldlaunchlikearocket,nomatterhowmuchhedemandedsheholdit
back.Theorgasmwashuge,soenormous,itwouldswallowherwhole.Morganfought
againstit,shakingherheadindesperation.Sweatpouredoffher.Shegrippedthetable
tighter.
Theachejustkeptbuildingandbuilding.Whenwoulditcrest?
“Andnowthosenipplesareadeep,demandingred.Beautiful,”hemurmured.
EverybreathwasbetweenapantandamoanwhenJackuncuffedherwristsand
ankles.Hehelpedherrubberylegstothefloor.Inpassing,shewonderedwhathehad
planned,butrealizeditdidn’tmatter.Hewouldgiveheramazingpleasure.Andsooner
orlater,hewoulddetonatethisawesomeacheroilinginsideher.
Willingly,shefoldedherselfintohisarms.Hedippedherheadbackanddoveinto
hermouth,devouring.Itwasakissofhunger,akissofpossession.Morganresponded,
meetinghimhalfway,tanglinghertonguewithhis.
“Youchallengemyself-control,cher,justbybeingsofuckingbeautifuland
submissive.Noonehaseverpushedmesohard,sofast,”heraspedagainstherthroat,
thenmoveduptonipatherlobe.“Ican’twaittogetdeepinsideyouandopenyouupto
allnewpleasures.”
Restlessly,Morganshiftedherweightfromonefoottotheother.Shecouldhardly
waitforJacktogetdeepinsideofher,too.Shehopednow.Rightnow.
Hespunheraroundandgrabbedthestrappyedgesofhercrotchlesspanties.The
moisturepoolinginsideheranddrenchingthedelicatefabricgushedout,spreading
wetnessdowntheinsidesofherthighs.
“You’resojuicy,likeasweetripepeach,”hepraisedashebentheroverthetable.
Shewhimperedasherclampednipplesmadecontactwiththesurfaceofthetable
andafreshjoltofpleasure-painscreameddownherspine,intoherdrenchedchannel.
Shetensed,wantingtofight,wantingtoreachherownhandbetweenherlegsandgive
herclitafuriousrubuntilsheexploded.Instincttoldhersuchanactionwouldbring
downenormouspunishment.Withanothermoan,shemanagedtorefrain.
“Suchagoodgirl.Sobeautifullysubmissive,cher.Doyouwantmetofuckyou?”
Morgandidn’tevencarewhatshesaidanymoreaslongasJackmadetheachego
away.“Yes,”shegasped.“Yes,sir.Please…”
Withherfeetflatonthefloor,Jackremovedherthong,peelingthedampfabricfrom
herflesh.Thenhecuffedoneankleatthecornerofthetableandlickedhiswayupher
thigh.Closer,closerhestrayedtotheheartofherache.Sheburned,yearned,moanedas
hismouthnearedherpussy.
Heonlylaughedandbenttocuffherotherankle,thenlavedoffthejuicecoatingthat
thigh—stillprovidingnorelieftoherweepingvagina.Instead,hesteppedawayfora
moment,hisfootstepsalertinghertohisretreat.Movement,thesoftclashofplasticon
plastic,theopeningofadrawer.God,whywouldn’thehurry?
“Ah,yes,”hemuttered,seeminglysatisfied.Thenheturnedbacktoher.“You’ve
earnedareward.”
Yes!Thrillandneedandlongingalltwinedtogetherathiswords,wrappingaround
herclit,spreadinganewwarmthtoherheart.Shewasabsurdlygladthatshe’dpleased
him,andinsanelyproudofherselfforsubmittingsototally.Andsheabsolutelywanted
thatreward.
Therustleofclothescamenext,brushingagainstheranticipation.Naked.Hehadto
benaked.Shewriggledherass,prayingitwouldenticehim.
“TheminuteIpraiseyou,youturnnaughty.”Hismockchastisementcame
accompaniedwithaplayfulswattoherbackside.
Thelaughterinhisvoicehadhergrittingherteeth.
“I’mlosingmypatience,andI’vealreadylostmysenseofhumor,”shebitched,
knowingitwouldpisshimoff.Butshecouldn’tstopherself.He’dpushedhertoofar.
Jacksaidnothing,merelysteppedupbehindherandblanketedherbackside.An
infernoofmalemuscleandmuskyskinenvelopedher.Thestrong,thickcolumnofhis
cocknudgeditswaybetweenhercheeks.Morganclawedatthepaddedtableagain.
OnlytohaveJackgrabherwristsandcuffthemagain.
Beforetheechoofthelastclickfinishedresoundingintheroom,thesoundofhis
heartysmackonherasstookitsplace.
Fireheatedhercheek,thenseepeddowntowardherneedypussy.Hewasgoingto
teasehersomemore?Damnit,she’dhadenough.
“Jack.Sir…”shecorrected.“I—Ican’ttakeitanymore.Please,fuckme.”
“Inmytime,inmyway,”hegrowled,thenpunctuatedthestatementwithanother
smacktoherass.
Freshheatbloomedinsideher,pushingpasthersuddenrushoftemper.
Suddenly,shefelthisfingersprobingherass,wrigglingbetweenhercheeks,bringing
somethingcoldandliquidwiththem.
Lube?Oh,God.
HerheartbeatrevveduplikeanIndy500winner’sengine.He’dsaidjustthismorning
thatheintendedtoburyhimselfinherassandsettleinforanicelongride.Didhe—?
Thepressoftwolubricatedfingersinsideherasscutofftherestofthequestion.The
stretchingandburningoftight,virginfleshhitherfirst.Thepressurefollowed,along
withasenseoffullness.Andwhenhemanipulatedthefingersinandoutofherbody
withaslowdrag,then,ohhell,thepleasurecompletelyshutherbraindown.
“That’sit.”Hegrippedherhipwithhisfreehandandencouragedherhipsback,
downontohisinvadingfingers.
Shemoaned.
“Youlikethat?”
Almostwithoutthought,almostagainstherwill,shegasped,“Yes.”
Hisfingersstilled.“Yes…?”
“Yes,sir.”
“Excellent.Let’sfindoutjusthowwetyouare.”
JackliftedhishandfromherhipandbroughtitaroundMorgan’sbody…rightonto
theswollen,hardknotofherclit.
Sheshoutedastinglestorethroughherbellywithhisfirsttouch.
Fingerspumpinginherass,swirlingonherclit,sensationoverloadthreatened.She
feltthebloodsurgingbetweenherlegs,alongwiththedangerousramping-upof
pleasure.Sheclampeddown,tryingtostop,butitwasnouse.Shefeltthefirstfluttersoforgasmbegin.
SodidJack.
“Nocomingyet,”hecommanded,withdrawinghisfingersfromherclit,herass.
“Sir,please.Please!”
“Youbegsosweetly,howcanIrefuse?”hepurredinherear.“ButImust…”
Heretreatedamoment,andshemournedthelossofhisspicedfleshoverhers,his
bodyheatseepingintoherskin.Atear,asnap.Acondom,sherealized.ThankGod!
Butshehadonlyamomenttocelebratebeforehepriedthecheeksofherassopen
andshefeltthebroadtipofhislubricatedcockpressingagainstheranus.
“Pushdownandtakemeinsideyou.I’llmakeyoucomesohardyou’llscreamthe
wallsdown.”
Yes.Please,yes!
Morgantiltedherhipsbackandpushedwithhermuscles.Thefatheadofhiscock
slidin,pressing,burning.Thepain.Oh,God…Itwouldn’twork,wouldn’tfit.Everytime
hemoved,evenbreathed,thepainrushedoverher.Indesperation,sheclawedatthe
tableagain,moaning.
Thenheglidedpastthetightringofmuscleandtunneledhiswayinside,slowly.So
slowly.Morgangaspedasheforgedeachnewinchintoherbody,deeper,deeper,ina
seeminglyendless,pleasurepain-filledslide.
Whenshestoodonhertiptoes,certainshecouldn’ttakeacentimetermoreofhis
cock,shefeltthegentleslapofhisballsagainsther.Hewasintothehilt.
“You’resofuckingtight,”hegroaned.“You’regoingtoripatmycomposureevery
timeyoubreathe.”
Morgancertainlyhopedso.Thatpendingorgasmstillbubbledjustunderthesurface
ofherskin,waitingforonemoretouchtoherclit,onelongstrokeofhiscock
Instead,Jackgrippedherhipswithinsistentfingers,drewinaharshbreath,then
another.
“I’mnotgoingtolastlong,”hecroaked.“Neitherareyou.”
Withthat,hepulledback,almosttothepointofwithdrawal,thensankalltheway
insidethedepthsofherassagain.Thewicked,burningpressurehadMorganpoundinga
fistonthetable.Pleasureandpain.Forbiddenandfabulous.Oh,shecouldloseherself
insensationlikethis.Close.Sodamnclose…
Herippedofftheblindfoldthen.Sheblinked,tryingtogetaccustomedtothehazeof
redlightoverhead.Beingabletoseeagaindidn’tblunthersenseoftouchorsmellatall.
Insteadshecouldseeamirrorbesidethedoor,andthestrainonJack’sreflectionashe
heldback,allcordedmusclesinhisshoulders,thestrainofrestraintinhisneck.Veins
bulgedinhisforearmsaswhite-knuckledfingersgrippedherhips.
“Watchus,”hecommanded.“Watchmefuckyourtightvirginass.”
Morganwatched,helplesstodoanythingelseashepushedin,pulledout,inlong,
strongglides,fillingherwithmind-numbingpleasuresohot,sohuge,shecouldbarely
takeitin.Shewhimpered,transfixedbythesight,bythefeelofhiminsideher.
“OnelastthingandI’llletyoucome,cher.”
Morganlickeddrylips.“Yes.Anything,sir.”
“InthefantasiesyoutoldAndrew,didyoumentionbeingtieddown?”
“Yes,sir.”
“Didyoutellhimyouwantedtohaveyournipplesclamped?”
“No.”
“Doyoulikeit?”Hereachedupandgaveagentletugonthechainbetweenthe
clamps.
Greatswellsofpainandecstasytumbledthroughhernipples,spunthroughher
body,swellingherclitagain.“Yes.”
“Didyoutellhimyouwantedhimtofuckyourass?”
“Yes,sir.”
AndJackdid,twomorebittersweet,slow,strongthrustsintoher,allthewaytothe
hilt.Morgangasped,moaned.Shecouldn’ttakeanymore.
“Please,sir!”
“Almost…”hepromised.“Whatelsedidyoutellhimyouwanted?”
No.Ifshetoldhimthat…No.Whatwouldhethink?
“Th—that’sall,”shelied.
Hesmackedherassandplungedintoherwithaseriesofquick,harshstrokes.
Morgancriedout.Moreheatthrownontotheever-burningfirebetweenherlegs.Damn,
whycouldn’tshecome?Theclimaxburninginsideherwasbiggerthananythingshe’d
everfelt.Sheshouldhavetumbledoverlongago.
Hadherbodyalreadylearnedtowaitforhiscommand?
“LietomeagainandI’llstrokemyself,comeatyourfeet,andleaveyoutoacheall
night.”
Morganswallowed,neverdoubtinghe’ddoit.“Pleasedon’tmakemesayit,sir.”
“Lastchance,”hegratedout,stillinghisthrustscompletely.“OrI’mleaving.”
Shesqueezedhereyesshut,grapplinghelplesslybetweenherbody’sneedsandher
fears.Wouldhejudgeherharshly?Wouldhethinkshewasadepravedwhore,too?
“Tellme,”hecajoled.
Withagentlepinch,Jackremovedtheclampsfromhernipples.Bloodrushedback
intothem,swellingthemwithaburstofneed.Yes!Thenthesensationrocketeddownto
herclit.
Justasithitherthere,hereachedbeneathheragain,fingershoveringsoclosetoher
achingbundleofnerves,shecouldfeeltheheatofhishand.Butstill,hedidn’ttouchher
clit.Morganmoaned.Allshehadtodowasbehonestaboutoneitty-bittysecretandhe’d
giveherthebestorgasmofherlife.
ThiswasJack.Heunderstoodherfantasies.Clearly,hehadsomeofhisown.He’d
givenhereverythingherbodysecretlydesiredsofar.Hewouldhelpherdealwiththis,
too.Shehadtobelievehewould.Hadtohavetrust…
“Twomen,”sheblurtedassheopenedhereyestofindJack’sgazeinthemirrorby
thedoor.
Instead,shefoundDekestandingintheportal,watchingthem.
Hereyeswidened.ShebuckedunderJack,tryingtogetaway.Butcuffedatthewrist
andankle,shewasn’tgoinganywhere.
NeitherwasDeke.HestoodandstaredasJacktunneledintoherass.Theheatof
brutalarousalonhisface,doubledwiththethickspikeofcockinhispants,burnedinto
her.Deke’sblueeyeslockedwithhers,andpristine,pureneedburstthroughherbody.
Shetorehergazeaway,foundJack’sinthemirrortoDeke’sright.Hergaze
connectedwithhisdarkone.Lockedinplace.
“What?”Jackbarked.
“Iwanttwomen.”Thewordstumbledoutofher.
Jackgrabbedherhipswithrenewedurgencyandshovinghiswayinsideagain.
“Fuckingyouatonce?”
“Yes,”shemanagedtosqueezeoutonapleasuredmoan.
AcurseslippedoutunderDeke’sbreathasheadjustedtheverytightflyofhisjeans.
Morgan’sheartbeatsohard,shebarelyhearditovertheroaring.
“Lookathim!”Jackroared,reachingaroundhertoliftherchin,forcinghertomeet
Deke’sgaze.
Andhestaredback,hisdenimbluestarepouringoverherbarefleshlikehotacid,
scorchingher,asJacktunneledinrelentless,measuredstrokesinhersensitiveback
channel.Shefelteachhardinchandeveryveinofhiscock,theheavyswellofhisglans
scrapingpastallhernerveendingsasheshovedhiswayhome,propellingherteeth-
grittinglyclosetoorgasm.
“You’dwantDeke’scockinyourpussywhileI’mdeepinyourass?”heraspedinher
ear.
Eventhewordscrankedherneedupsotightitnearedpain.
“Yes,sir,”shesobbed,clawingatthetable.Theideaturnedtheburnbetweenher
legsintoaninfernothatwasabouttoexplodeintoaconflagrationbeyondherimagining.
“God,yes!”
“Jack,getyourfingersonherclitbeforethepoorgirldies.Sheneedstocome,”Deke
pointedout,hisvoicecalmandeven,despitethearousalflamingfromhim.
“Don’ttellmehowtofuckmywoman,”hegrowled.
“You’repushinghertoofar,toofast.She’snotusedtothis.You’reabouttobreak
her.”
Behindher,JacksnarledsomethingdistinctlyunpleasanttoDeke.Buthetookhis
friend’ssuggestion.Forthat,MorganthankedGod.
ThesecondJack’sfingerstouchedherclit,themassiveachebetweenherlegs
convergedintoahard,darkballoffirelickingatherrestraint,tormentingherveryskin.
“Come!”heshouted.
Thesensationsconcentrated,blurredwithpain,burnedfromtheinsideoutasshe
burstlikeathousandsuns.
MorganscreamedassheconvulsedaroundJack,clampingdownonhiscock.The
sharpcrestoftheorgasmslammedintoher,andhersurroundingsdisappeareduntilall
sheknewwasJackandpleasureandareleasesosublime,soperfect,shelostallsenseof
hearing,theneedtobreathe.Visionblurred.Herheartthreatenedtoburstfromher
chest.
ButshefeltJack’shandstightenonher,felthisteethinherneck,thenthehardening
ofhiserectiondeepinsideher.Along,harshgroantorefromhischest.
Heslowed.Stopped.Morganslumpedonthetable,beyondexhausted.Still,shewas
consciousofDeke’sgazehotonherbody.
Worse,shefelteverybitofJack’stensionbehindher.
Suddenly,hewithdrewfromherbody,toreoffthecondom,andtosseditinthe
trashcaninthecorner.“Sonofabitch!”
JackthrewDekeafilthylookashepaddedtothedoorcompletelynaked.
What…?MorganwatchedJackthroughstunnedeyes.Wherewashegoing?
Oncehereachedthethreshold,Jackturnedtoherwithafierce,furiousstare,asif
she’dbetrayedhimsomehow.Hispainandangersingedherinthatoneglance.
Thenheslammedoutthedoor.
CHAPTERTHIRTEEN
ThesilenceinthewakeofJack’sexitdeafenedMorgan.Downthehall,heslammed
thedoortothebathroom.Despitebeingstrappedtothetable,sheflinched.
Withalongsigh,Dekeshovedawayfromthewall.Morganwatchedhimwatchheras
hedrewcloser,reallyunderstandingthefeelingofadeerintheheadlights.Whatmust
themanthinkofher,aftershe’dadmittedshewantedhimburiedinsideherclingingsex
whileJackpumpedherassfullofhiscock?Shewasbetteroffnotknowing.Yes,
accordingtoJack,Dekewasintoménage,butstill,whatathingtoconfessoutloud.At
leastDekeseemedincrediblyunruffledbyeverything…
UnlikeJack.
Herworstnightmarehadcometrue;she’dgivenintoJackandthesubmissivenature
hesworeshehad,thentoldhimherfantasy.Andhe’dfreaked.NotlikeAndrewhad.
Jackhadn’tcalledheradepravedwhoreandsuggestedshegetprofessionalhelp.But
he’dbeenblazinglypissed.Hecouldn’thavemadethatanymoreclearifhe’ddrawnher
apicture.
God,she’druinedeverything!Whatthehellwaswrongwithher?Ifherultimate
fantasyshockedevenJack,shemustbetotally,terriblywicked.
Morganresistedtheurgetoclosehereyesandcry.She’ddonethatoncebefore,after
Andrewslammedher.Tearsdidn’tdoanydamngood.Sheddingthemoverthis
particularfantasyandalltheassociatedproblemswasn’thappeningagain.
Jackhimselfhadbeenswearingtoherthatherwantswereperfectlynormaland
nothingtobeashamedoforembarrassedabout.Liar,shewantedtoshout.Shesavedher
breath.
Somuchforallhisassurances.
Damnit,thesefantasieskeptscrewingupherlife,wrackingherwithguilt,chasing
menoff.Shehadtomovepastthem,getthemoutofherhead.Somehow.
Dekeroundedthetable,andMorganwatchedhisprogress,craninghergazeoverher
shoulderashesettledbehindherwithoutaword.Hecouldsee…everything.Thelong
lineofherspine.ThewetheatofhersexswollenbyJack’stouch.Thebareglobesofher
ass.Afreshwaveofmortificationrolledoverher,alongwithsomethingelseshedidn’t
wanttoname.Sheclosedhereyes.
Clampedatwristsandankles,Morgancoulddonothingbutlethimlookandabsorb
hisheatashestooddirectlybehindher.InexactlythesamespotJackhadoccupiedmere
minutesago.Herbreathhitched.
Insilence,Dekeleanedoverher,blanketinghercoolingskin.Thesoftcottonofhis
shirtandthehardmusclesofhischestcoveredherbareback.Hardasiron,hisjeans-
coveredcockburnedhotbetweenthecheeksofherass.Asparkofshockingheat,too
strongtoignore,blendedwithherhumiliation.
Thatalonehadtoprovehowtwistedshewas.Whycouldn’tshejust…turnitoff?
Hishotpalmfelltoherwaist,settlinginthecurvewithwarmfingersthatsoon
dippeddowntheswellofhernakedhip.Henuzzledhisfaceinherneck,andMorgan
drewinanothershakybreath.OhGod,whatwashegoingtodo?Shewasalready
stripped,bound—defenseless.Theonlythingskeepinghimfromviolatingherwasa
button,azipper,andhisconscience.
Jack’swarningthatDekewasn’taniceguyranginherhead.Morganpanicked.
Thishugeblondstrangerwasgoingtotouchher,seduceher.Fuckher.Shecouldn’t
doadamnthingtostophim.Fantasiesofménageaside,shedidn’twantitorhim—not
withoutJack.
Shetensedagainsthertremblinglimbsandwarned,“Deke…”
Behindher,hiscockonlygotharder.“NowIknowwhyJackissocrazyforyou.You
smellfantastic.”
Hisvoicewaslikeacaressfeatheringitswaydownherspineinasensualvibration.
Sheshivered.Broadfingersclampedharderatherhiptokeepherstill.
“Damnit,getmeoutofhere!”shedemanded.
“Shh,”hewhisperedintoherhair,thepadofhisthumbcaressingdownherhipa
fraction.“Patience,doll.”
“Screwpatience!Beingusedandabandoneddoesn’tbringoutmybestvirtues.Ijust
wantthehelloutofhere.”
Dekesighed.Hisfreehandcaughtthelatchatherrightwrist.Herepeatedthe
processonherleft.Thenheeasedback,withdrawingthesolidheatofhisbodyaway
fromherback.Hekneltandunlatchedherankles.
“Canyoustand?”Hisgazesnaggedhers,whichshonewithbothmischiefand
concern.
He’dlethergo?Justlikethat?Relieffelloutofherinashakybreath.
MorganstoodstraightupandzippedhergazeoverhershouldertofindDeke
adjustinghisfly.
“You’regorgeous,andI’mstillaguy.”Asmileflirtedwiththecornersofhiswide
mouth.“I’dneverfuckyouwithoutJack.Scout’shonor.”Heheldupthreefingersinthe
Scoutingsymbol.
Buthe’dfuckherwithJack?Morganshookherheadattheridiculousquestion.After
Jack’sreactiontothatverysuggestion…Shehadabetterchanceofbeingnominatedfor
sainthood.Andherbodyleapingattheprospect…damnedannoyingandtotally
irrelevant.
SheturnedtofaceDeke,crossingherarmsoverherchesttocoverherexposed
nipplesthroughthecutoutsintheindecentbra.Dekehadn’ttouchedher…butshestill
wasn’tthesortofsirenwhostoodbasicallybare-assednakedinfrontofvirtualstrangers.
“Um,thanks,butyoudon’tlookmuchlikeaBoyScout.”
“Iwasn’t,”headmitted.“Ijustmeantgeneralprincipleandall.Besides,you’vehad
enoughforthenight.”
Inaflash,theeveningreplayedinherhead.Jackcoming.Jackcursing.Jackleaving.
Damnhim!Granted,itwasn’tDeke’sfault—Jackshouldbetakingalltheblame—but
hewasn’there.Dekewasthenearesttestosterone-basedmammal,sohe’dhavetodoas
hertemper’swhippingboy.
“Youthink?”sheshotbacksarcasticallyasshesteppedawayfromthetable.
Herlegscollapsedoutfromunderher.IfDekehadn’tbeenquicktoreachoutand
grabher,shewouldhavefalleninanignominiousheaptothecoldcementfloor.
Withacurse,heliftedherintohisarms,upagainstthehardheatofhischest.“You
haveeveryrighttobepissedatJack.”
Morgancoveredherswollennippleswithherarmsandglancedupintothe
unreadableanglesofDeke’sstrong-bonedface.“You’renotgoingtotakeJack’sside?”
Heglanceddownatherwithascowl.“Hell,no.”
Spokenasifthatshouldbeobvious.Didn’tguysusuallyhaveeachother’sbacks,
purelyforprinciple?
Withfootstepsthatbarelyregisteredonthehardwoodfloor,hecarriedherdownthe
hall,pastthatclosedbathroomdoor,tothebedroom,andsetherontherumpledbed.
Gently,hedrewthesheetuptohershoulders,coveringherexposednipples.
“Hangtight.I’llbeback.”
Frowning,shewatchedhimturnandleavetheroomwithasortofmilitaryprecision
thatshoutedofhisyearsinthearmy.Hewasasoldier.Awarrior.Bigandreadytofight.
Readytoprotect.Readytofuck,solikeJack.ButDekeseemedeasiertotalkto.Whydid
shewantenigmaticJacksomuchmore?
Morgansighed.Apparently,Jackflippedherswitchbecausesheneededmore
challengesinherlife.Shescoffedinthesilence.Yeah,thatwasitexactly…
Onthosesame,mostlysilentfootsteps,Dekereturnedwithasmalltubeinhishands.
Hesankdownontheedgeofthebedandbrushedthehairbackfromherforehead.
“Iknowyou’reupset.Jackbrokeyourtrust.Hemadeyouapromisetocareforyou
andyourpleasure.Tonight,hedidn’tdoagreatjob.Therearereasons.Jackwillhaveto
sharethosewithyou.Notmyplacetodoit.”Heshruggedandsetthetubeaside.“Ican’t
domuchabouthowyoufeelinside,butIcanhelptheoutside.Situp.”
DazedasshesortedthroughallofDeke’swords,Morgancomplied,holdingthesheet
aboveherbreasts.Jackhadreasons?Whatthehellreasonscouldhepossiblyhavefor
hurtlingherhighintothesphereofpleasurethentossingherintothepitofdespair?For
makingherfeellikeafreakyetagain?
Beforeshecouldsortanythingout,Dekereachedaroundherbackwithonehand.
Withasinglepinchofhisfingers,herbrawiththehandycutoutscameunhooked.As
Morgangasped,thestrapsfelldownherarms.Heignoredherandsetagentlehandon
hershouldertolayherback,thendrewthesheetdowntoherwaist.
Morganswallowedhardandraisedherhandstocoverherself.Dekeanticipatedher
andgrabbedherwrists,forcingthembacktohersides.
“Letgo,”shesnapped.
Heleanedoverherandheavedalong-sufferingsigh.Theclaspofhisfingersaround
herwristswassurprisinglygentle.“Look,Ijustwatchedyoucomehardenoughtocause
anearthquakewhilemybestfriendfuckedyourass.Doyouthinkwecoulddropthe
modestvirginroutine?I’mtryingtotakecareofyousoIcangoknocksomesenseinto
ourmutualpal.”
Hmm.Putlikethat,Dekehadareallygoodpoint.
Withasigh,Morganstoppedfightingandrelaxedintothemattress.
Shakinghishead,Dekereachedforthetubehe’dsetbesideher.Afteraquickturnof
thecap,hepulleditoffand,withnimblefingers,squeezedonthebottle.Apuddleof
clearoilcollectedinhispalm.Dekerubbedhisbigpalmstogether.
Thenheputoneoneachofherbreasts.
Morgangasped,tensing,andzippedhergazeuptohisface.Dekeignoredherand
focusedonhistask.
Theoil,warmedbyhisskin,permeatedherbreasts,coatedhersorenipples.Untilhe
soothedthemwiththeliquidbalm,Morganhadn’trealizedhowrawtheyactuallywere.
Butasherubbedhispalmsdirectlyovertheachingpoints,frictionsentazingof
reactionstraightthroughherbody.Morganclosedhereyes,partlyinshame.Theother
partofherreactionshedidn’twanttothinkabout.Whatthehellwaswrongwithher?
Thenhechangedthestroke,concentratingtheoiljustaboveandbelowtheangryred
tips,rollingthemgentlybetweenthumbsandforefingers,massaginginaslow,hypnotic
rhythm.Andwitheveryroll,pull,caress,thesensationbuiltintosomething
uncomfortablybutundeniablylikearousal.
“Morgan.”Hisvoicewasdeeper,huskynow.
Shetriedtoignorethepullofhisvoice.Buthisvoiceechoedinherhead,throbbingin
timewithhistenderstrokesacrosshersorenipples.
Surrenderingthelosingbattle,sheopenedhereyesandshothimawarning.Red
flagsofcolordustedhischeekbones.Hiseyesnowburnedadeepmidnightblue.Yethe
removedhishandsfromherbreasts,archedabrow,andflashedheraself-deprecating
smile.
“NowIknowexactlywhyJackissooverthemoonforyou.Sizzleandsubmissionall
inonesoftsigh.”Hedrewinaroughbreath.“Rollover.”
“Overthemoonforme?”Shetossedherhandsintheair.“YousawthesamemanI
did,right?Theonewhocursedatmeandstompedoutoftheroomfortellinghim…
Well,Ishouldhavekeptthattomyself.Buthiskindofbehaviordoesn’tsayanything
exceptgetlost.”
“Doll,I’veknownJacknearlytenyears.WewenttoBasictogether.We’vefucked
womentogether,andtheideahasneverbotheredhimintheleast.Untilyou.”
Jackhadparticipatedinaménagebefore?WithDeke?Shockpunchedherinthe
stomach,stealingherbreath.HermindracedbackovertheconversationsheandJack
hadoncehadaboutDeke’s…preferences.ItmadesensethatJackknewaboutDeke’ssex
lifebecausehe’dbeenpartofitatsomepoint.Eveniftheideasearedherwithjealousy.
Butifhe’dparticipatedinthepast,whydidhesuddenlyfindtheideaso
objectionable?
“Ifménageisyourfantasy,Jackneededtohearthat,”Dekeassured.
“But—”
“Heseemedpissed?Yeah,it’shisissue,notyours.”Hesighed.“Rollover.”
Shehesitated,butDekedidn’tnotice.Herosefromthebedanddisappearedfromthe
room.Withafrown,shestaredathisretreatingback.
Oddman.Gentle,despitegettingquitethefloorshowtonight.Seeminglycalmand
rationalandnormal,despitehavingthreeinhisbedallthetime.Hewasclearlyaroused
anddoingnothingmorethantakingcareofthemarksanothermanhadleftonherbody.
Heneverpressedherformore,despiteherownreactiontohim,whenmostmenwould
haveviewedthefirstblushofherarousalasagreenlight.
Thenhetriedtosootheherfeelings,assurehershewasmeaningfultoJack.While
Morganknewhehadthatpartallwrong,sheappreciatedhimtryingtomakeherfeel
better.
Rollingtoherstomach,Morganlayherheadonthepillowwithawearysigh.Araggedinhalationlater…andshesmelledJack.Musk,leather,mystery,man.Hisscent
neverfailedtoworkthroughherbloodstreamlikeheadywineanddrugherwithdesire.
Onlythistime,itcamewithapangofloss.
Uponhearingherdeepestfantasy,Jackhadlefther.Heprobablydidn’twanther
back.Andthatdamnurgetocrynowtighteningherthroatwasreallypissingheroff.
Footstepssoundedonthehardwoodfloor.Morgantenseduntilsherecognizedthe
cadenceofDeke’sfootfalls,longerandslowerthanJack’s,abitmoresilent.Sherelaxed,
somehowrelievedanddisappointedatonce.
Withbriskhands,hecoveredtheglobesofherassandpartedthem.Morganclenched
againsthimandopenedhermouthtoaskwhatthehellhethoughthewasdoing.Butthe
warmcomfortofahotwashclothcoveredherbackentrance,andherubbedgently,
wipingawaytheexcesslube.
“Ifyou’resorelater,awarmbathwillhelp,butyoushouldbeokay,”hemurmured,
easingherontoherbackagain.“Sleepnow.”
Morgannodded,watchingwithwideeyesasheleanedin.Washegoingto…?Yes,he
was.
Amomentlater,Dekelaidhismouthoverhers.Thesweetpressoflipslasted
throughonebreath,two.Dry,almostchaste.Stillsomehow,hemanagedtoconvey
caring,comfort,abarehintofwant.Then,withalightbrushofhislipsoverhers,he
drewback.
“Yeah,nowIknowexactlywhyJackiswildforyou,”hesaidwithabittersweetcurlto
hismouthasherosetohisfeet.
“Wait!”Shegrabbedathishand.
“Howdidyoucometotermswithit?Howdidyoulearntobeokaywith…”
“Ménage?”Heguesseditrightinonthefirsttryandshrugged.“Atseventeen,the
firsttimeIheardawomanscreaminecstasyunderdoublepenetration.There’snothing
likeknowingtheperfectwaytodriveawomanabsolutelywild.”
“Butit’snotexactlywhatnormal,everydaypeoplenextdoordo.”
Dekecrossedhisarmsoverhischest.“LucandIhaveneighbors.Idoubttheyknow
wesharewomen,butIdon’tgiveashitiftheydo.”
“Luc?”
“Mycousin.It’shisplace.IcrashtherenowthatI’vebeendischarged.He’smadeit
allwarmandcozy,andisjustwaitingontherightwomantocomeplayhousewithus.”
MorgandoubtedadeafwomanwouldhavemissedthemockeryinDeke’svoice.“You
don’tthinkit’spossibletofindsomeone?”
Shefeltsadforhim.Theregretinhiseyestoldherhowbadlyhewantedjustthat.
“Whatwomaninherrightmindwantstolivewithatemperamentalchefanda
formerdrillsergeant?Alone,eitherofuswoulddriveawomantodrink.Together…”He
shrugged.“Itworksforanightortwo.It’senough.”
Dekewaslying.Toher.Tohimself.Hiswantshadcosthimachanceathappiness,
too.
“Andrightnow,it’sirrelevant.”Hebustedinonherthoughts.“Weweretalking
aboutyouandJack…”
Clearly,Dekedidn’twanttotalkabouthimselfanymorethanshewantedtotalk
aboutherself.
“You’llhavetoacceptyourowndesirestobehappy.Andyoushouldn’tsettlefor
less.Jackwillcomearoundandhe’llhelpyou.Ican’ttellyouwhenorhowitwillhappen
orwhatwillmakeyouokaywithyourneeds.Ijustknowyou’llmanage.”
Morgantriedtoreininherfrustration.Whydideveryonekeepinsistingthatthe
answerwasinsideher,wasassimpleasacceptingherself?Clearly,ifJackwasgoingto
curseherandtearoutofaroomasifthehoundsofhellwereathisback,itwasn’tthat
simple.
Damnit,she’dbeenfeelingsogoodaboutherchoicetocometoJack’splayroom.The
wayhe’dtouchedher,thepleasureinhistouch,thepraiseineverycaress,madeherfeel
soaccepted,likeeverythingtranspiringinhisplayroombetweenthemwasright.And
then…then,he’ddisparagedherwants.Thathadtomeantherewassomethingwrong
withher,right?
Damn,hadsheeverbeenmoreconfused?
ForDeke’ssake,shejustnodded.“I…Thanks.”
Amerewordofappreciationseemedinadequate,giventhathe’dseentoherphysical
comfort,treatedherwithoutlust…butstilllikeawoman.Triedtoanswerherquestion,
butbaredhissoulinstead.Hisgentleattentionmadeherfeelfeminineandcaredfor,
andwasabalmtoJack’srejection.
Smiling,Morgansatuponherkneesandreachedforthebroadplanesofhischeeks.
“It’snotmuch,butthankyou.”
Thenshesettledhermouthoverhis,alightdustingoffemininesighs,warmlips,and
thanksbeforepullingaway.Itwasodd,really,this…bondofunderstandingsprinkled
withalightdustingofdesire.Morgandidn’tunderstanditanymorethanshe
understoodhim.Butsuddenlyshewasgratefulforboth.
“You’rewelcome.”Hesteppedaway,smoothingabroadpalmdownthecascadeof
herfieryhair.“Tryrestingnow.Youshouldbeabletowithsomeassurances,bytheway.
Hardtobelieveaftereverythingthat’shappened,butIcameoutherebecausenoone
answeredthephone.Iwantedtotellyoutwothatyourstalkerappearstohaveleft
Louisiana.TellJack,becauseI’llbetoobusybeatinghisass,thatthecreeptrashedyour
fiancé’shousethreedaysagoandtriedtosetfiretoyourhouseinL.A.yesterday.”
“Ohmy…”PoorBrandon.Hewassoproudofthathouse,andhadn’taskedforany
trouble.He’dmerelybeentryingtohelp.Andherownhouse…“Damnit!”
“Iknow,”Dekesoothed.“Itsucks,butthegoodnewsis,withangerlikehis,ifthe
bastardknewwhereyouwererightnow,he’dbeoutherehuntingyoudown,not
hoppingalloverthecountrytryingtodrawyououtbydestroyingproperty.”
Dekehadapoint,anditseemedtosolidifytherationalethatReggiewasherstalker.
Shehadn’tcalledhimindays,andhe’dbeenoneofthefewpeoplewhoknewshe’d
madeitasfarasLouisiana.Andhe’dneverhadagoodtemperonthebestofdays.Was
hedisturbed?Obsessed?Probablybothoftheabove.Shesighed.
Untilnow,she’dbeensafebecauseshe’dbeenstayingwithJack.Buttoday,
everythinghadchanged.GivenJack’srejection—yetanothermanwhohadsnubbedher
afterhearingherfantasies—andDeke’sinformation,shewasreadytotakeaction.
IfReggiehadmadehismove,maybe…maybeitwastimetomakehers.
#
JackhadpredictedDekewouldmakehiswayontothewraparoundporch,where
nightwassettlingovertheswampandthecoldFebruaryairtwistedoverhisbareskin.
Afteralongshower,he’dwrappedhimselfintherobeMorganhadleftonthebackofthe
bathroomdoor.Damnthingsmelledlikeherandgavehimanotherfuckinghard-on.
Tryingtoblotoutboththefeelofhertightassaroundhiscockandthestarkpainon
herfaceashe’dstompedoutoftheplayroom,Jackgrippedhisbottleofbeerandturned
tohisfriendfortheverbalass-whippingheknewhedeserved.
“Youdon’thavetosayit,”Jackassuredhim,takingalongswallowofhisbrew.
“Oh,butIwantto.”Dekesettledintothechairbesidehisandglared.“Youbehaved
likeastupidprick.”
“You’reright.Morganjust…shockedthehelloutofme.Ihadnoideashewas
harboringfantasiesaboutménage.Shecanbarelywraphermindaroundtheideaof
submittingtome.Thatshe’sthoughtofservicingtwomen…”Heshrugged.“Itblewme
away.IreactedbeforeIthought.”
“Youbetrayedhertrustandmadepromisesyoudidn’tfuckingkeep.”
“You’rerightagain.”Jackscrubbedahandacrosshistiredface.“Shit.Itwasbad
enoughthatIturnedmybackonher.Idamnnearpunishedherforhavingthefantasy.
Sheprobablyfeelswretchedandrejected.”
“Youdon’twanttoshareher.”
“No,Idon’t,”Jackadmitted,imbibinganotherlongswallowofhisbeer.Absently,he
wonderedhowlongitwouldtakehimtogetdrunkandifhecouldforgetaboutbehaving
likesuchanassifhedid.
“BecauseofKayla?”
Nothinglikegettingrighttotheheartofthematter.Hisexwife’sbetrayaloftheir
marriagevowswithoneofhisclosestfriendshadcarvedapitoffuryinhisgutthathad
justkeptfillingupwithireandhateovertheyears.Nowitwasthinlylinedwithascar
thatenragedhimatthethoughtofanothermantouchingMorgan.Hell,hehadn’tcared
muchaboutKayla,andknowingshe’dfuckedaroundonhimhadnearlydrivenhimtoa
killingrage.
HecaredaboutMorganmuchmore.
“WhenitcomestoMorgan,Iwanttobeaselfishbastardandkeepallhersassand
submissionandsweetsmilestomyself.Iwanttobetheonlymanwhowrapshishands
inthatgorgeousflame-coloredhairandwatcheswhileshetakesmedeepinhermouth.I
wanttobetheonlymanwhotastesherpussy,feelsthebiteofhertightassonmycock.”
Heblewoutalongbreath.“Butthat’snotwhatshewants.”
“Youlovethisgirl?”
Jacksqueezedhiseyesshutandgrippedthecoldbottleinhishandsotightly,he
wonderedifitmightbreak.Howcouldheanswerthatwhenhe’dneverexperiencedlove
before?Iffeelingeuphoricatherhappinessandsomberathersadness,beingwillingto
killanyonewhothreatenedher,andkickinghimselfintheassforcursingherdesires
andcrushingherburgeoningsexuality,then…
“Yeah.I’mprettysurethat’sthecase.Fromthebeginning,it’sjustbeen…sodifferent
withher.”Hebarkedwithbitterlaughter.“Hell,IevendreamedaboutherbeforeIknew
her.Herbody,hersmell,thewayshemakesmefeel.Fromthefirst,Ifeltlikeshehadme
bytheballs,butI’mthinkingmaybewhatshe’sholdingisabitfarthernorth.”
“You’vegottomakethisrightforher.”
“Ijustdon’t…”Heheavedalongsighandstartedover.“Iintendtoclaimher,andI
knowit’smyresponsibilitytoseetohereverydesire.ButIhonestlydon’tknowifIcould
seesomeoneelse—you—fuckherandnotwanttoripyourballsoff.”
“Ifyouloveherandyouwanttoseeherhappy,you’vegottogiveherwhatsheneeds.
Orshe’snevergoingtobewhole.Andwhatyouhaveisgoingtobealie.”
Socalm,sorational.Soperfectlycorrect.DamnDeke!
“Notonlythat,”Dekewenton,“butwhateveritisshe’sholdingbackfromyouis
somethingshe’llnevergiveifyou’renotfulfillingher.”
“Holdingback?”Jackpaused.Asickknottwistedhisgutwithapprehension.Hestill
hadn’treachedher,nottotally.He’dhoped…Butno.Soapparently,he’dhopedinvain.
Howcouldhemakeherhisifshewouldn’tsurrendercompletely?
Butthen,Deke’swordsremindedhimthatshewasonlypartoftherecipe.Theother
parthadtocomefromhim.
“C’mon,Jack.YouknowwhatI’mtalkingabout.Don’tyou?You’veseenit?Feltit?”
“Doyoutakesomeperversepleasureinbeingrightandthrowingthatinmyface?”
Jacksighedandtookanotherlongswallowofhiscoldbeer.“WhereisMorgan?”
“Ituckedherintobed,safeandsound,andI’mhopingshe’sasleep.Shelookedworn
out.”
“Didyoucopacheapfeel?”
DekesmiledatJack’sgrowl.“Imighthave.She’sahardwomannottowant.”
Jackknewthattoodamnwell.Whilehedidn’tlikeDeketouchingher,hehadnoone
toblamebuthimselfforrunningoutonher.Soheletitgo…thistime.
“Morganislikeasoftstroketothecockandakickintheteethallatonce,”Jack
muttered.
“You’renottheonlymanwholovesher.She’sgotafiancébackinHouston,right?”
Brandon.Sonofabitch!Asifheneededthecomplicationofthatpansy-assed
bastard.
“Yes.”
“Whatareyougoingtodoabouthim?Withhiminthepicture,she’snotyoursto
keep.”
“Thanksforthereminder,”hegruntedsarcastically.
TakingMorganfromBrandonwouldbethebestrevengeofall,waybetterthan
simplyemailingvideofootageofthemfuckingtoheresteemedfiancé.Butthatwasn’t
thereasonJackwasdeterminedtowinher.Notevenclose.
Hejustwantedheralltohimself.Today,tomorrow,everymorning,everynight.His.
Dekerosewithaquirkofasmile.“Whatarefriendsfor?”
Indeed,hethought,watchingDekeambledownthesteps,getintohisboatandpush
awayfromthedock.
Foraendlessmoments,hesatthere.Anddamnit,hecouldn’tevenmanagetoget
drunk.Instead,hetriedtosortthroughthetangleofshitswirlinginhisgut:fear,anger,possessiveness,jealousy,determination,concern,need…love.
Whenhisfeetfinallyturnedtoice,hisstomachstartedgrowling,andhethought
Morganmighthaverestedsufficientlytotalk,hestalkedintothehouse,threwhisempty
beerbottleaway,andheadedforthebedroom.
Onlyhedidn’tfindMorgan.
Herscentlingeringintheroomtoldhimshehadn’tbeengonelong.Theruby
pendanthe’dgivenherlayabandonedonhispillowandtoldhimmoreeffectivelythan
wordsthatshe’dleft.
He’dlostherbeforehehadher.
Andthatifhedidn’tfindherfuckingfast,hecouldlosehertoastalker’sjealousrage
forgood.
CHAPTERFOURTEEN
“Youcanstophidingnow,”Dekesaid,laughterliltinghisvoice.
Morganstiffenedunderthetarponthefloorofthelittleboat.Dekewastalkingto
her.Crap!Howonearthhadheknownshewashere?
Hisrhythmicpaddlingceased,andnowtheboatsatstationary,thethickwatersofthe
swampsplattingagainstthesideofhissmallmetalvessel.Hadtheyarrivedatthelittle
dockoutsideLafayette?
“Iknowyou’rethere,Morgan,”Dekesaidasheliftedthetarpoffofher.
Thenight’scoldbreezesuddenlysweptacrossherhalfdressedformasshelookedup
—way,wayup—atDeke.Thesilverymoonbacklithistoweringframe,shadowinghis
angledcheekbonesandstrong,squarechin.Amusementplayedacrosshisgrayed
features.
“Howdidyouknow?”
“Ihadtostepoveryoutogetintotheboat.”Helaughed.“Thetarphidyou,butthe
displacementoftheboatmadeitobvioussomeonewasonboard…andnotabig
someone.Thatleftyouasmyonlysuspect.”
Damnit,she’dtriedsohardtogetawayfromJack,fromthetangledmorassherlife
hadbecome,withoutanyoneknowing.
Withachuckle,Dekebentdownandhelpedhertoherfeet.“Youlookadorably
frustrated,doll.Don’tfeelbad.WeSpecialForcestypespayattentiontothesmall
details.Youneverknowwhenitwillkeepyoualive.”Heshrugged.“Jackwouldhave
heardyousneakingoutthebedroomwindowifhehadn’tbeensittingontheporchand
drowninghisthoughtsinbeer.”
Thewindwhippedaroundheragain,andMorganshivered.ApairofJack’soverlarge
sweatpants,acottonshirtwiththetailstiedatherbellyandathinpairofsockswereno
matchforthecoldsliceofthehumidbreezeinforty-degreetemperatures.
“I’mnotgoingback.”
“Youdon’thaveto.”
Morganwrappedherarmsaroundherself,tryingtowardoffboththecoldanda
suspicionthatDeke’sanswerwasintendedtomislead.
“Good.Ijustwanttogetmypurse,findmycar,andgetasfarawayfromhereas
possible.”
“YoumeanasfarawayfromJack?”
“You’regoingtoblabtohim,aren’tyou?”
Heshrugged.“Onlyifhe’stoodrunktofigureitouthimself.Asitis,Iexpecttohear
fromhimshortly,soIwon’thavetosayaword.”
“Drunkorsober,he’snotcomingafterme.”
“Givehimanhour,twotops.”Heglancedathiswatch.“Myguessismorelikeforty-
fiveminutes.”
Thatdidn’tseempossible.WasDekeblind?Stupid?“Themanwalkedoutonme
afterIshockedthehelloutofhim.”
“Youshockhim?”Dekelaughed.“That’sfunny,butnotpossible.Yousurprisedhim.
Hejustwalkedouttothink.IfIbelievedforasecondthathewouldn’tcomeforyou,I
wouldhaveleftyouwithhimintheswamp.”
DekehonestlybelievedthatJackwascomingbackforher.Tonight.Washe
delusional?Convincinghimselfsothathedidn’thavetobabysither?
Itdidn’tmatter.Shehadtogetoutofhere,awayfromtheswampsandLafayette,and
fromJack,beforeshedidanythingelseshe’dendupregretting.
“Why?Iwanttogetaway.Whywouldyouleavemewithamanwhodoesn’twant
me?”
AfreshrushofFebruarywindcutthroughthethinclothing,chillinghertoherbones.
Morganhuddledfurtherintoherarms.
“Doesn’twantyou?”Dekeaskedincredulouslyasherippedhissweatshirtoffover
hishead.“Woman,youknowshitaboutmen.Whenhecomes,askJackwhyhecame
afteryou.Itwon’tbelongnow.”
Morgantriedtofollowthetrainofhiswordsandnottoswallowhertongue.Every
sculptedinchofDeke’storsowasblessedly,achinglybare.Shetookintheangleddips
andhardswellsofhisbody.Themanwasenormous!Those
shoulders…theyhadtobedamnnearthreefeetwide.Holycow,itwasagoodthing
shealreadyknewDekewasn’tgoingtohurther.Otherwise…she’dbeterrifiedtomeet
themaninadarkalley.
“Armsup,”hecommanded.
“You’regoingtogetcold.”
Heshookhishead.“I’vegotaspareinmyHummer.Armsup.”
Thistime,shecomplied.Theallureofwarmthwastoostrongtoresist.Thesweatshirt
settledoverherbodylikeasoft,warmcloudthatextendedatleastsixinchespasther
fingertipsandnearlydowntoherknees.
Dekelaughed.“You’realittlething,doll.Mysweatshirtmakesyoulooklike
someone’ssix-year-oldsister.”
Tornbetweenlaughingandscreaming,Morganstompedoutoftheboatandontothe
decayingwoodendock.Deketiedtheboatoffandfollowedher.
“Ifwe’redonelaughingatmyexpense,canyoudropmeoffatSexySirenssoIcanget
mypurseandblowthistacostand?”
Dekeraisedatawnybrow.“Youknowthat’sthefirstplaceJackwilllookforyou.”
“Well,thenlet’shurrysoIcanbegonebythetimehedecidestochaseafterme.”If
hedoes.
“Yourchariot,mylady.”HegesturedtoagleamingblackHummerH3sittinginthe
dirt-and-gravellottenfeetahead,percheduponmonstertrucktiresnearlytallerthan
her.
Morgansnorted.Asifaguythattallandhugeneededsuchanintimidatingvehicleto
makeastatement.Talkaboutoverkill.
Onceheunlockedthedoorswiththepressofabuttononhiskeyfob,heopenedthe
oneonthepassenger’ssideandliftedherintothevehicle.Shecouldn’tcallitacar.It
wasmorelikeatankwithleatherseatsandsatelliteradio.
Settlingintotheseatandshuttingthedoor,shewasgratefulforthefactthatit
blockedthatterriblecoldwind.
Behindher,areardooropenedandclosed.Afewmomentslater,Dekeclimbedinto
thedriver’sseatwearingaWestPointsweatshirtandasmile.
OntheroadtoSexySirens,Morganaskedhimtodropheratthebackdoor.Thelast
thingsheneededwastocrawlthroughthecrowdwearingJack’stoo-bigsweatpantsand
Deke’sevenbiggersweatshirt,sansbraandshoes.Sheprobablylookedlikearefugee
fromanall-nightfratparty.
“AsifIwasgoingtodropyouoffatthefrontdoor.”Deke’svoicedrippedsarcasm.“I
thinkyourstalkerfriendisinCalifornia.Idon’tknowit.UntilIknowwherethebastard
is,welaylow.”
Morgancouldn’targuewiththatlogic.Bettersafethansorry.Shewantedtobelieve
ReggiewasstillinCaliforniastewingthatshe’dgivenhimtheslip,butwhoknew…
DekeparkedtheHummerinthealleybehindtheclub,thenhelpedherdown.He
stoppedbeforethebackdoorandpoundedhisfistonthecrackingpaint.Anewblastof
arcticwindcutdownthenarrowlaneofthealley.Morgan’steethchattered.HerthinL.A.
bloodreallycouldn’ttakethis.
Withacurse,Dekemovedhisbodytoblockthebruntofthewindandhewrapped
hisarmsaroundher.
Alyssaopenedthedoorandstaredatthemwithasurprisedgazethatquicklyturned
jaundiced.“Well,ifitisn’tHe-Man.”
Thesexyclubownerwasdressedtonightinablackleathercorsetjustshyofillegal
andamatchingskirtabreathawayfromindecentthatemphasizedlonglegsencasedin
sheer,thigh-highstockings.Shesteppedbackonblackstilettostoletthementer.Awall
ofthrobbingmusicmadethelittlebackroomvibrate,despitethedoorsclosingthemoff
fromtheclub’smainstage.Itwashardtomisstheheavysuggestionofthesong,some
1980stuneaboutnaughtygirlsneedinglove,too.
TheysteppedinsideandDekeshutthedoorbehindhim.“It’smyfavoritepole
dancer.Howthehellareyou?”
AlyssatossedbackacurtainofplatinumhairandregardedDekewithdisdain.
“Smartenoughtoavoidyouandyourtagteamingcousin.Thelastwomanthetwoofyou
finishedwithdidn’twalkforaweek.”
“You’reinnodanger.We’relookingforalady.”
Theformerstripperstiffened.“Fuckyou.”
Dekegaveaneasyshrug.“Iwould,butyou’renotLuc’stype.Thanks,anyway.”
“Iwasn’toffering,”shespitout.“Nexttimeyoufeeltheneedtobehere,sendyour
cousininstead.He’sgotcharm.”
MeaningDekedidn’t.Whatwastheproblemwiththesetwo?Morganwatchedtheir
byplaywithafrown.AlyssaandDekedislikedeachother.Intensely.
“Ihatetointerrupt,”Morganblurted,lyingthroughherteeth,“butcanIgetmy
purse,Alyssa?”
Thewomanlookedather.“Morgan?Oh,shit.I’msorry.Ididn’trecognizeyouwith
redhairand…Whatthehellareyouwearing?”
“Jack’ssweatpantsandHe-Man’ssweatshirt.”
Alyssa’sexpressionturnedripewithX-ratedquestions.
Morganflushedwithbothembarrassmentandanger.“It’snotwhatyou’rethinking,
butdon’task.Ijustwanttogetmypurseandgetoutofhere.”
“DidJackfindyourstalkerandputhimoutofhismisery?”
“No,butwethinkhe’sgonetoCalifornialookingformesincehesetfiretomyhouse
thereyesterday.”
Alyssagrabbedherhand.“I’mnotsosure,hon.Comewithme.You,too,steroid
boy.”
Morganfollowedherintoanarrowhallwaythatbloomedintoanoffice.Deketrailed
behind,grumblingthathe’dneverusedsteroids.Shebarelypaidattention.Alyssaknew
somethingaboutherstalkerthatshedidn’t?
Thewomanshutthedoortothesmall,cubiclelikeoffice.Ah,soundproofed.Very
nice.
Hustlingbehindherdeskinasurprisinglylong,confidentstride,despiteher
staggeringlyhighstilettos,Alyssaproducedabigenvelope.Afamiliarmanila-style
envelope.Onewithoutpostagemarks.
Morgan’shearttookanosedive.
“Thesearrivedthismorning.Apparently,somehomelesswomansaidamanpaidher
todeliveritbyhand.IwouldhavecalledJacktotellhim,butIwasinNewOrleans
today.Ijustgotbackandfoundthem.”
Withshakinghands,Morganopenedtheenvelopeandextractedthepictures.There
wereonlytwo,bothtakennearSexySiren’smainstagethedayJackhadbroughtherhere
totransformandhideher.Hadthatbeenamerethreedaysago?Somuchhadhappened
sincethen,itfeltlikealifetime.
ThefirstpictureshowedJackindisguise,hisfingerscurledaroundherhip,hispalm
restingonthecurveofherass.Hismouthhoveredaboveherear.Morganshiveredasshe
rememberedhishypnoticvoiceandfiveo’clockshadowraspingagainsthersenses.
Sheswalloweddownatangleofgriefandyearningassheflippedtothenextpicture.
Thisoneknockedthebreathfromherbody.
Jackseizingher,holdingherstillfortheonslaughtofhismouth.Eyesclosed,he
devouredher.Thestillpicturecapturedaggression,possessionintheclutchofhis
fingersonherneck,thethrustofhisshoulders,asifhewasdeterminedtogetascloseas
possible.Hiswidemouthutterlydevouredhers.Morgancouldn’tavoidlookingatthe
picture,herarmsaroundJack’sneck,herbreastspressedagainsthim,herlipspartedin
eagerreadinesstotasteeverybitofhiskiss.Notjustaccepting,butcravingit.She
tingledjustlookingatit.
Dekewhistled.“That’sonehellofakiss.”
“Yep,I’veneverknownJacktobesointentonanythingthatdidn’tinvolve
handcuffs,”Alyssacommentedbaldly.
Morgancutapainedglanceather.OfcourseAlyssahadsleptwithJack.Probably
morethanonce.Whatred-bloodedwomanwouldn’t,giventheopportunity?Still,
lookingattheexoticcreatureinblackleatherwithawaterfallofplatinumhairwrapped
ineasysexuality,Morganfeltliketheuglyduckling—allbaggyclothes,freckles,and
repression.
God,shehadtogetfarawayfromhere.IfshestayedlongenoughtowatchJacktouch
thiswomanoranyother…thesightwouldcrushher.Noquestion.She’dtrustedhim,
openeduptorevealherselftoJackinawaysheneverhadwithanyman.Shecared.More
thancared.Shedidn’tevenwanttothinkabouthowmuchmore.
Twelvekindsofstupid,that’swhatshe’dbeen.
“Ifhandcuffsisallittakestointerestyou,I’msureIcanscroungeupapairortwo.”
DekebaitedAlyssa.
Theblondescoffed.“Youwish.”
Thisconversationwascrawlingonherlastnerve.ShehadnoideawhyDekewas
tryingsohardtogetariseoutofAlyssa’stemperandshedidn’tcare.
“DidyoucallJackalready?”Morgandemanded.
Alyssafrownedatthesharptone.“No.Iwasgettingreadyto.”
Morganshookherhead.“WaituntilIleave.Iwanttobegoodandgonebeforehe
showsup.”
“Doll,youcan’tleavewiththisguyrunningaround.Hecouldbenear.”
Shetriednottowinceatthatpossibility.“Ihavetogo.I’mexhaustedandIwant
space,somesleep.Tomorrow—”
“Tomorrowcouldbetoolate.YouhavetowaitforJack,tellhimaboutthesepictures.
Lethimprotectyou.”
“I’llbefineforonenight.I’llcallaroundandhiresomeonetoprotectmebrightand
earlyinthemorning.”SheturnedtoAlyssa.“CanIjusthavemypurse,please?Ineed
mydriver’slicense,mykeys,mymoney…”
“Whataboutthenote?”theblondeasked.
“Note?”
AlyssagrabbedtheenvelopefromMorgan’shandsanddugtothebottomuntilshe
retrievedafoldedpieceofpaper.“Note.”
TrepidationbatteredMorgan’snervesasshetookthewhitepaperinhandand
unfoldedit.
Youbelongtome.Onlyme.Iwillkillyoubeforeanothermantouchesyouagain.
Thebrevityandresolutioninthosewordschilledher.Reggiemeantit.Morgan
coveredherhandwithhermouthandfeltherkneesweakeningunderher.
Dekecaughtherinhisstronggraspbeforeherlegsgaveout.Alyssamovedintoher
lineofvision,concernandconfusionwrittenalloverherface.
“LetmecallJack.He’sgoingtowanttohearaboutthis.”“No,he’snot.”Morgan
lookedaway,fightingthestingoftearsthatweresuddenlylikeanicepickinthebackof
hereyes.Alyssaclosedthespacebetweenthemandliftedherchininasurprisingly
stronggrip,despiteherlongFrench-tippedclaws.“Okay,nowI’mreallygoingtocall
himandreamhimout.Howthehelldidhebreakyourheartinthreedamndays?”
“Idon’tthinkit’sone-sided,”Dekeoffered.
Hewasdelusional,Morgandecided.Andshe’dheardenoughfrombothofthem.
TearingherselfawayfrombothDekeandAlyssa,Morganmadeforthedoor.Shewas
exhaustedandsore.Shewantedashower,wantedthesolaceofdeepsleep.Untilshegot
outofhere,shewasn’tgettinganyofit.
IfReggiehadarrangedforthedeliveryofthisenvelopetoAlyssa,itmeanthewas
stilldeterminedandunhinged.Hewasprobablybackinthearea.Heknewwhoshe’d
lefttheclubwithandwhen.AllthemorereasonnottostaywithJack,tofindanew
bodyguard.
Foreveryreasonshecouldthinkof,shehadtogetoutofhere.Now.
“Givememydamnpurse!”sheshouted.“I’mleaving.”
Alyssatossedupherhandsinagestureofsurrenderandwalkedbackbehindher
desk.Sheliftedhersuper-shortblackskirtandrevealedasetofblackgartersholdingup
herthigh-highstockings.Asmallribbontiedalittledeskkeytothatgarter.Alyssa
pluckedontheredsatinribbon,andthekeyfellintoherhand.
WithatauntingglanceatDeke’srivetedgaze,Alyssapalmedthekey,then
straightenedherskirtandunlockedherdesk.Anopendrawerlater,shehandedMorgan
herpurse.
“LetmecallJackbeforeyougo.”
“I’llbefine.Dekecanwalkmetomycartohelpmeretrievemythingsandmakesure
Idoitsafely.I’llfigureoutwhattodofromthere.”
Morgandidn’twaitaroundforeitherofthemtoanswer.Shewhirledawayand
headedforthealleyexit.Itwasdark.Shecouldstayinthealley’sshadows.
Afewmomentslater,sheheardDeke’sfootstepsbehindher.
“I’llstaywithyoutonight,untilyoucanfindanewbodyguard.”
AndlethimcallJacktocomeandgetherandprobablyspankherassforrunningoff
inthefirstplace?“Justdropmeoffatmycar.I’llgrabmystuffandcallacab,justtobeonthesafeside.Yourresponsibilityendsthere.”
“IfIdo,Jackisgoingtokillme,”hemuttered.
“Ifyoudon’t,I’mgoingtokillyoufirst,slowly,andstringyouupbytheballs.”
ThoughMorganwaspainfullyawarethatshecouldn’tmakegoodonthatthreat,she
wasrelievedwhenDekejustshookhisheadandsighed.
HedroveherstraighttoBrandon’scar,stoppingbesideit.Heleanedoverthesteering
wheel.
“WhatJackdidwasshitty,Morgan.Iwon’tdenyit.Heknowsit.Butthisasshole
stalkingyouisdangerous.Andit’spossiblehehoppedaplanebackhere.Letmecall
Jack.Hecankeepyousafeuntil—”
“Damnit.Whatpartofnodon’tyouunderstand?”
“Whatifthissickfreakfindsyou?He’striedtokillyouonce.He’lltryagain.Yousaw
thatnote.”
“I’magrownwomanwithabrain.Icanmanagetohidemyselfforonenight.Then
tomorrow,I’llmakeotherarrangements.Jackisnottheonlypersonwhocankeepme
safe.”
“He’sthemanwhocaresaboutyoumost.Hewoulddoanythingtokeepyousafe,
givehislifeforyours.”
“Allbodyguardstakethatrisk.”
Dekenodded.“Thedifferenceis,onthejob,weriskourlivesbecausewe’repaidto
doit.IhavenodoubtJackwouldsimplylayhisdowntosaveyours.”
“No,that’s…”Morganshookherhead,disturbedbythesoaringjoyandterrorinside
her.“He’dhavetolovemeto—”
“Hedoes.”
Morganswallowed.Itwasn’tpossible.Logically,she’dknownJackthreedays.He
wasn’tthekindofmantogivehishearteasily,ifatall.
Wasitpossible?avoiceinherheadwhispered.Anagreementtoaninterviewhadled
toanagreementtoprotecther,whichhadledto…somuchmore.VisionsofJack
bombardedher:Shieldingherfrombullets,impalingheragainsthisfrontdoor,teasing
hisgrandfather,encouraginghertoaccepthisdomination,cursingatherfantasy.
Leavingher.
Jackdidn’tloveher.Dekemustthinksayingotherwisewouldpersuadehertowaitfor
him.Well,Dekethoughtwrong.
ShestrippedoffDeke’ssweatshirt,handeditbacktohim,andgatheredupherpurse.
“I’llbefine.”
“Idon’tthinkthattakingthiscarissafe.Whoknowswhattheweird-assdidtoit.
Whydon’tyouletmedropyousomewhereuntilwecangetthecarcheckedout.”
SohecouldtellJackwhereshe’dgonetheminutehisHummerdoorshutbehindher?
“Thanksfortheoffer,butI’llcallacab.”
Withalongsighofdefeat,DekeputhisHummerintopark.“Atleastletmehelpyou
downandmakesurethisbastardhasn’ttamperedwithyourcar.”
Asmuchasshewantedto,Morgancouldn’targuewiththatrequest.Shenodded.
Dekehoppeddownandwalkedaroundtoopenherdoor.Hegrabbedheraroundthe
waistandliftedheroutofthevehicle.Hishandslingered.“Areyousure?”
“Yes.”Shestillhadastalkertocontendwithbutshecouldhiresomeonebigand
meananduglytowatchoverher,returnhome,startfilmingthenewepisodesofTurnMe
On.
Anewbatchoficepicksseemedtostabatthebackofhereyes.“Ican’tstay.”
Morganfishedthekeysfromheroverstuffedlittlepurse,cursingasDekebumped
herandhalfthecontentsspilledoutontothedarkstreet.God,couldn’tanythinggo
right?
“Sorry.Itripped.”Dekebentandgatheredherbrush,herwallet,herhandlotion,
thenputitallbackinherpurse.“Besafe.”
SheopenedBrandon’strunkafterDekecheckedthevehicleinsideandout,thengave
heranall-clearsignal.Withasoftcurse,hecalledheracabasshegrabbedher
belongingsfromthetrunk.
“Thanks.”Shecouldn’tseemtomakehervoiceanybiggerthanawhisper.
“IhopeIseeyouagain.”
Sincere.Hiswordsweren’tcute.Weren’tacome-on.Afreshwaveofdejection
swarmedher.
Morgannoddedandwatchedhimdriveawaywithhottearsscaldinghercheeksasthe
truthhither:She’dneverseeDekeagain.Worse,she’dneverseeJackagain.She’d
knownhimmeredaysandleavinghimfeltlikeshewasleavingbehindapartofherself,
likeshe’ddismemberedherheartfromherbody.
Perfect.Howlikeher.TheminuteshehadtoleaveJackwasthemomentsherealized
shelovedhim.
Thetaxiblessedlyarrivedmomentslaterandwhiskedheraway.
#
Nearlygroaningwitheverystep,MorgancheckedintoaquaintEuropean-stylebed
andbreakfastontheedgeoftownwithasmallovernightbaginonehandandherlaptop
intheother.Shetooktherenovatedcarriagehouseoutback,whichwasn’tvisiblefrom
theroadandcamecompletewithaJacuzzitubandabackdoorforaquickexit.The
wholeplacesatalone,theyardsurroundedbyguardfences.Theownersworethey’d
neverhadsomuchasaflowerdisturbedinthetwentyyearshe’dbeenrunningtheplace.
AndthatsoundedlikeheaventoMorgan.Shewantedtolaydownandsleepforaweek,
andaftertonight,shejustmight.
Butshehadtotakecareofafewthingsfirst.
Draggingherlaptopout,Morganhunkereddownintheplushking-sizedbedand
dashedoffanemailtoBrandon.Sheexplainedaboutthedamagetohishouseand
promisedtoreturntoHoustonandgettherepairsstarted.Shetoldhimshewasalive
andsafe,thatJackhadbeenwatchingoverher.Shesenthimthenameofherhotel
tonightincasehecouldcontacther—andnotmuchmore.Howcouldshepossibly
explaintoultra-responsibleBrandonthatshehadfallenforastrangerinahandfulof
days?Then,afterbeseechinghimtostaysafeinIraq,shegrabbedherphone.She’dread
ontheInternetthatsometimesconfrontingyourstalkerwithafirmnocouldmakethem
goaway.MaybethattacticwouldworkwithReggie.Butoneglanceatherphonetoldher
there’dbenocallingReggietonight.Herphonewasdeaderthandead.Damn!
Resignedthateverythingwouldwaituntiltomorrow,sheheadedfortheblissful
steamofashower.
Twentyminutesandtwotravelsized-bottlesofshampoolater,Morganemergedfrom
thecharmingpedastal-sinkedbathroom.
Onlyshewasn’taloneanymore.
CHAPTERFIFTEEN
“J—Jack?”Herstomachclenchedintoatightball,thenfelltoherknees.
Hestoodjustoutsidethebathroomdoor,bigandbroadandtensewithfight,
completelyblockingherinandcoveringbothherexits.Morganlickedsuddenlydrylips.
Mostpeoplemightmistakethatexpressiononhisfaceforflat.Uh-huh,sheknewbetter.
Andsheshivered.
“Howdidyou…?”
Sheglancedattheclockvisibleonthewalljustabovehisshoulder.Dekehadtoldher
Jackwouldprobablycatchupwithherinforty-fiveminutes.He’ddoneitinthirty-seven.
Allwhilemaintainingtightcontroloverhisanger—barely.Theclenchingfists,the
thickveinsropinghisforearms,histautjaw,theinkyslashesofhisbrowsoverreproving
darkeyes,shecouldhardlymissallthat.
Norcouldshemisstheragingerectionpushingagainstthefrontofhisjeans.Butit
wasinherbestinteresttotrylikehell.
Jackreachedforherpurse,dumpeditupsidedown,scatteringthecontentsallovera
littleroundtable.Heextractedalittleblackone-by-oneinchplasticdevice.ThelittlegraylettersGPSonthebacktoldhereverythingsheneededtoknow.
Damn!Dekehadslippedthatintoherpurse,probablywhenshe’ddumpedits
contentseverywhereafterhe’d“accidentally”bumpedherandhe’d“helped”pickitall
backup.Morganmadeamentalnotetoslaphimsillywhen—No,shewouldn’tseehim
again.
“Hegaveyouthemeanstohuntmedown,”shespat.
“Iwouldhavefoundyou,nomatterhowlongittook.NomatterwhatIhadtodo
Dekejustmadeiteasier.Iwasn’tfarbehindyou,anyway.”
Morganmutteredanimpossiblewishunderherbreath.
“No,Iwon’tleaveyouthehellalone.Infact,Ihaveaquestion:Areyououtofyour
fuckingmind?”
“Forwantingtogetawayfromyouafteryourmortifyingexitearlierthisevening?
Gee,Imustbe.”
Heflinched.Oh,itwassubtle,butsheknewJackwellenoughtocatchit.
“Fuck!”Herakedahandthroughdarkhairandstalkedcloser.“Alyssacalledme
whenyoulefttheclubandtoldmeaboutthepicturesandthenote.Dekeconfirmed.
Whatthehellwereyouthinking?Orwereyouhopingyourdangerousadmirerwould
justpackitupandgohome?”
“Hecouldn’thaveanywaytofollowmehere.I’msafeforanightortwo.After
that…”Sheshrugged.“You’renottheonlypersonontheplanetcapableofhelpingme
staysafe.”
Apparentlynotlikingthatanswer,Jacksteppedcloser,lookingbiganddominantand
worriedashellunderallthatanger.
“Knowsomeoneelsewho’saqualifiedbodyguard?Whoyougonnaletprotectyou?”
“Idon’tthinkit’sanyofyourbusinessanymore.”
“Why,becauseIbehavedlikeanassearliertonight?Don’tlookshocked.Iwaswrong
andI’msayingso.I’msorry.”
Jackapologizing,justlikethat?No.Itwastoosimple.Therehadtobea
catch…“You’reonlywillingtoapologizesoI’llbeagoodlittlegirl,comeback,andlet
youtearmedownagain.”
“I’mwillingtoapologizesoIdon’tloseyou.Butwhetheryouforgivemeornot,I’m
notlettingthissickbastardanywherenearyou.”
Morgangesturedaroundtheotherwiseuninhabitedroom.“Asyoucansee,all’sclear.
Nopsychosherereadytokillme.Youcangonow.”
Amuscleinhisjawticked.“I’mnotgoinganywhere.It’spossiblethisasshole
followedyouherefromAlyssa’s.Hecouldhavebeenwatchingtheclub,justwaitingfor
you.Youdon’tknow.”
Shehatedtoadmitthathecouldberight…butinthiscase,hecouldbe.Damnit,she
hadtostartthinkingsmart,withthebrainGodgaveher,notwithherweepingheart.
“Andyoumaythinkwe’redone,”Jackwenton,advancing,closer,closer,largerand
moreinsistentwitheverystep.“Thinkagain.Idon’twanttoloseyoutothisstalker;
that’sagiven.ButIdon’twanttoloseyou.Period.”
Morganrolledhereyes.“Loseme,how?Asa…littlefucktoy.That’sallIamtoyou.
Youenjoyedeveryminuteoftearingawayallmymisconceptionsaboutmyself.
CongratulationsforconvincingmeI’msubmissive.Nowgetthehelloutofmylife.”She
whirledaway.
Jacksnaggedheraroundthewaistandhauledherbackagainsthischest.Itdidn’t
takemorethanasecondtofeelthesteelinspiredcockproddingthesmallofherback.
Theknowledgeshouldn’tmatter,shouldn’tmakehersexclenchwithneed,shouldn’t
makeherachetolatchontohim,tosurrendereverythingtohim.
Shouldn’tsweren’therreality.Morgandidwanthim,withadesperatecravingthat
madeherbodytightandachy,aconditionshefearedonlyhecouldease.
“Afucktoy?”hegrowledinherear.“No.AfucktoyIcouldhaveputbackinabox
andforgotten.Icouldhavesentoneofthoseawaywithoutanotherthought.Afucktoy
wouldn’thavemehardeverytimeIhearyourvoice,orworriedwhenIseeyoucry.Or
feelingreadytohandyoumyheartonaplattereverytimeyoudonothingmorethan
fuckingsmile.”
Morgan’sbreathcaught.Hedidn’tmeanit.Impossibleafterthewayhe’dtreatedher
tonight.“Letgo.”
Herdemandfellondeafears.Instead,hegrowledinherear,“WhenIputthatcollar
aroundyournecktonight,thatmeantsomething.Thatdanglingheartrepresented
something.Iknowyougetit.Thesymbolismcan’tbelostonyou.”
Hisheart?No…“Itmeantsomuchthatyoucursedatmeandstormedout.You’re
theonepushing,pushing,encouragingmetoopenup,letloose,promisingmethatit’s
okay.Yeah,it’sokayaslongasit’ssomefantasyyou’vebeenharboring,butwhenI—”
“Myex-wifecheatedonme,”Jackcutin,pantinginherear,once,twice.“Ilearnedshe
wasfuckingmythenbestfriendwhenIfoundtheirhomemadevideo.”
Gasping,Morgan’sjawdropped.Hertiradestuckinherthroat.He’dactuallyseenhis
wifeandhisbestfriendtogether?Notjustheardgossipaboutthem.Notjustlistenedto
theirconfession.He’dwitnesseditinawayhecouldreplayitoverandover.
Toastrong,proudmanlikeJackthatwouldbetheultimateslapintheface.
Morganriskedaglanceoverhershoulder.Defensesstripped,Jack’sgazeseethed
angerandbeggedherforgivenessallatonce.“Weweren’t…close.Itriedtogiveherwhat
sheneeded—money,healthinsurance,time,andspaceaftershemiscarried.Iwas
faithful,but…”
Itwasn’tenough.Hehadn’tknownwhatelsetodo.Hisburningeyesandpainful
silencetoldherthat.
Jackturnedhertofacehimandreleasedher.“Knowingthatsheletanothermanfuck
heratemealive.Shebeggedhimtotouchher.”Heswallowed.“Shecouldbarelystandto
beinthesameroomwithme.Andthensheleftme.Forhim.”
Therestofthemessageshoneclearinhistorturedgaze.Morganmattered,andhe
wasn’tlettinghergo.Hewasn’thidinghisintentiontohaveheragain.
Andshe’dstaggeredhimwiththefactthatshe’dfantasizedabouthavingtwohungry
cockscommandandpossessheratonce.Hefoughttheknowledgethatsheachedfor
Jacktoshareher.
Anothermanscrewinghisex-wifehadpissedhimoff,hurthispride.Thehotdrillof
hisstaretoldMorganthatanothermantouchingherhadthepowertoturnJackintoa
red-hazed,fullfledgedpostalmaniac.Shecouldbringhimtohisknees.
Oh,God.Hehadn’tstormedoutoftheplayroombecausehewasshocked;he’ddone
itbecausehewasscared.Oflosingher.
Becausehecared.
“IkeptwonderingwhatmyexneededthatIdidn’tgiveher.”Hisvoicecracked.He
clearedhisthroat,closedhiseyes.Lookedaway.“Intenmonthsofmarriage,shenever
toldmeshelovedme.Onthatvideo,shetoldhimthreetimesineightminutes.Ever
since,I’vewonderedifmaybe…maybeIdon’thavethatsomethingawomanneedsin
ordertobehappy.”
Thewayhisintensegazegrippedhersmadeherbreathcatch.Inthosedarkeyes,
lurkedthefearthatshecouldneverlovehim.Ofallthethingsshe’dexpected,thiswould
havebeendeadlastonthelist.
Warm,gooeyfeelingsexplodedinMorgan’schest.Shecuppedhisstubble-rough
cheekinherhand,thumbcaressingthehardthrustofhischeekbone.Hisvulnerable
frowntoreatherheartashekissedtheinsideofherpalmandwatchedherwithagaze
scrapedrawbyneed.
“Haveyouevertoldanybodyelseaboutyourex-wife?”
“No.”Histightvoicesoundedsomewherebetweenawhisperandamutter,thenhe
crackedapainedsmile.“Well,ItoldDekeafteronetoomanyhurricanes.”
Thisproud,dominantmanhadjustlaidbarehisfearandpain.Forher.Tohelpher
understandwhyhe’dwalkedout.
“Youhaveeverythingnecessarytomakeawomanloveyou.”Hervoiceshook.“After
all,I’vebeenfightingthedangerousurgetofallinlovewithyouforthreedays.”
Jack’seyeswidened,heated.Hestalkedcloser,againsther,greedyfingerscurlinginto
herhair,hungrygazeeatingherup.“Didyousucceed?”
Morganhesitated.Answeringthisquestiongavehimsomuchpower…Yet,
intertwinedwitharaggedcatchofemotion,sheheardthatsubtlecommandinthisvoice,
theonethatneverfailedtorousebothherbodyandherinstincttosubmit.Shesaw
apprehensiontightenhisboldfeatures.Andcouldn’tstaysilent.
“Notwellenoughformypeaceofmind.”
Asmilebrokeacrosshisface,whiteteethflashinginCajun-darkskin.Chocolateeyes
melted.Thatexpression…sobrilliant,sohappy.“Good.Ishouldn’tbeinthisalone.”
Thenhecoveredhermouthwithhis,asofturgeforentrywithahintofdemand
beneath.Tendercontrol.Silkenmastery.Hercoldlipswarmedunderhistouch,quickas
awhip’slash.Herbodymelted,heated,ached.Thebrushofhislips,thesensualdanceof
histongue,andsuddenlyherheadswamwitheverythingJack—hisscent,thehard
breadthofhischest,theflavorofhismouth,thewayheheldher,asifshewas…
everything.
Breathingharsh,hepressedalightkisstothecornerofherlipsandbackedaway.
“Thisfantasyofyours,it’simportanttoyou,isn’tit?”
Shecoulddowithoutit,couldn’tshe?Itwasn’tthatimportant.Afterall,she’dbeen
doingwithoutitforyears.Whypursueitifwasgoingtocausehimmoredistress?Why
riskhurtinghim,amanwho’dalreadyknownpain?
“Thetruth,Morgan.NotwhatyouthinkIwanttohear.”
Ifshelied,evenforthesakeofhisfeelings,therewouldbehelltopay.Thatmessage
wouldn’thavebeenanymoreobviousifhe’dpaidtoputitonaneonbillboard
Morgancrossedherarmsoverherchest.Howimportantwasit?Blowingoutabreath,
shetriedtosortoutthetangle.
Well,she’dhadnothingbutmiserablerelationshipssinceshediscoveredmen.And
Jackhadknownwhybylookingatherthefirsttimetheymet:Shehadn’tbeenlistening
toherneeds,givingherpsychewhatitrequiredtounlockthekeytoherpleasure.No
denyingshe’dsacrificedherwants,buryingherdesires,forthegreatergoodofthose
lousyrelationships.Instead,ignoringhersubmissivenaturehadkilledthose
relationships.
Bigadmissionforher,andshehadJacktothank.He’dtaughthernottohide,forced
hertofacethefactitwasimpossibletobuildhappinessonalie.
Andthetruthwas,ofallherwickedmidnightfantasies,theideaoftwomentaking
her,atonce,hadbeenthemostexplosive.Andyes,shemightbeabletorenounceitnow,
forawhile.Buthowlongbeforedenyingherdesirecaughtupwiththem?
“I—IwishIcouldjustmakeitgoaway.ButI’mafraidI’llneverfeeltruly…settled
andsatisfieduntilIhaveit,atleastonce.”
Hefrowned,nodded,turned,andpacedtotheothersideoftheroom.
Asilentimplicationthatshewantedmorethanhewaswillingtoprovide.Thetruth
hurt,rippedherinsideslikeanindustrialpapershredder.Butshe’ddonewhatshehad
todo.Lyingwouldn’twork.Ultimately,thefalloutwouldonlybemorepainful.She’dbe
doingthembothadisservice.BeingengagedtoAndrewwithoutbeinghonestfortoo
longhadproventhat.
Besides,betterthattheycrossedthisbridgenow,ratherthanlater,aftershe
convincedherselftostayandlie…andsurelyonlygrowmoreattachedtohim.
WouldsheeverbeabletomovepastJack?Lookingatthetensesetofhisshoulders,
hisclenchingfists,rememberingthefeelofthatinkyhairinherhandsandthatbroad
Cajunsmile…Probablynot.
Morgansighed.“I’msorry.”
Shewatchedthosebroadshouldersliftinashrug.“Iwouldn’twantyoutolietome.”
Heturnedandpacedtowardheragain.“Don’teverlie.”
Buthiseyesraged,asifthepainwasnearlybeyondhisbearing.Morganachedfor
him.
“Iunderstandwhyyoucan’t—”
“Shh,”hewhisperedagainsthermouth.“You’reexhausted,andIjustwanttofeel
you,knowyou’reokay.”
Jackeasedherdowntothebedandremovedtheplushrobetheinnhadprovidedto
revealherclean,bareskin.Heremovedallhisclothesandslidontothemattressbehind
her.Heliftedherbreastsintohishands,thumbinghernipples.Hesettledhishardcock
againstthecurvesofherass.Buthemadenodemands.Aftertonight,shedoubtedhe
would.
“Sleep,”hiswhisperdemanded.
Washeoutofhismind?Shepushedbacktears,tryingtorelax,tryingnottomake
himfeelworseforwhathewasn’tabletogiveher.
“I’lltakecareofyou.”Jackkissedhershoulderandnuzzledhisfaceintothecurveof
herneck.
Hefeltgoodagainsther.Withhim,shefeltwarm,protected,aroused.Evenaccepted.
ItwasallMorgancoulddonottoturnandtellthemanshelovedhim,thatshecoulddo
withoutthatonefantasy.Butwithaliebetweenthem,theyhadnotomorrows.
“Jack—”
“We’lldealwithittomorrow.That’sapromise.”#
JackflippedhisphoneshutjustasMorganemergedfromtheold-fashioned
bathroomwearingatowelandanawkwardsmile.Hisgutclenchedatthesightofher.
Shelookedsotemptingwithanemeraldgreentowelshieldingherfairskinand
curvesfromhiseyes.Knowingthoseblushpinknippleswerebareunderthescrapof
terryclothdidn’texactlycalmhislibido.Withadashofblackmascara,herblueeyes
lookedvividandhugeinheruncertainface.Aswipeofsomeamber-coloredglossover
herlipsemphasizedthepillowysoftnessofherlips.Thatflamehairfellinasilken
curtainhalfwaydownherback,framingalabasterskinwithlittlecinnamonfreckles.She
glowed.
AndJackwantedhersodamnbad,hecouldbarelytakeasinglebreathwithout
thinkingabouthavingherboundandopenforhim,takinghimineverywayhistwisted
mindcouldconjure.
Hadhemadetherightchoice?
Toolatenow.Whatwouldhappen,wouldhappen.
“Feelbetterafteryourshower?”
Shenodded,thenlookedaroundtheroom,bedwithsumptuousjewel-toned
comforterrumpledfromnothingbutsleep,hardwoodfloorsgleaming,littlearea
uncluttered.“Theycametotakethebreakfastdishesaway?”
“Whileyouwereintheshower.”
“Good.”Shechewedonherlowerlip.
“IjusttalkedtoDeke.He’sfriendswithlocalpolice.”Hereachedforherhand,
hopingitwouldhelpsteadyher.“Yourpal,Reggie,wasarrestedataboutthreethis
morningfortryingtoaccostAlyssainherclub.Deke’sbeentoseeher.Fromwhathe
said,accordingtoAlyssa,Reggiedemandedtoknowwhereyouwereandwasgetting
prettyphysicalaboutit.”
Morgangasped.Ifitwaspossible,morecolorslidoutofherface,leavingbehind
thoseblue,blueeyeswidewithfear,disappointment,anger,relief.
“SoI’mnotindangeranymore.”
“Maybe.Maybenot.Hewon’tbeinjaillong,adayortwo.Andwedon’tknowfor
surethathe’syourstalker.”
“Hehadtobe.NooneelseknewthatmuchaboutwhereIlived,whereI’dbe.
Photographyishispassion.Ifhecouldmakealivingatit,Ithinkhe’dquitTurnMeOn
tomorrow.Hehasavolatiletempersometimes.I’veheardwhispersthathehasa
record…I’veneverknownhimtobeviolentoranything,butthere’snooneelseinmy
lifewiththeabilitytofollowmehereandtakeallthosepicturesinquitethatway.”
Itwaspossibleshewasright,Jackmused.Probableeven.Buthewasn’tabouttotake
chances,especiallynotwithhersafety.Hedrewhercloser,placedasoftkissonherbare
shoulder.
“I’llknowmorelater.Ihaveanappointmenttochatwithhimthisafternoon.I’m
hopingtowringaconfessionoutofhim,ifhe’sourguiltyparty.”
Hershouldersdrooped.“I’mgratefultoknowthatIhaveafewhoursofpeacein
ordertoplanmynextmove,butitpainsmetolosesomeoneIthoughtwasafriend.
And…”Shesteppedoutofhisembrace.“IguessI’llbeleavinghere,getoutofyourway.
I—I…Thankyouforlastnight,forkeepingmesafeagain.”
Leaving?Notifhecouldhelpit.Notever.“You’rewelcome.”
Jackwaited.Shehadsomethingmoretosay.Herpensivegazetoldhimitweighedon
hermind.WasshegoingtoaskmorequestionsaboutKayla?Recantherfantasy?Tell
himtogetlost?Impatiencegnawedonhiscomposurelikearabiddogwithajuicybone.
Buthewaited.
“Thankyoufortellingmeaboutyourex-wife.Iknowitwasn’teasy.Iappreciateyou
explaining…Itwasarelieftoknowyoudidn’tleavetheplayroombecausetheideaofa
ménagewastooshockingforyou.”
Heregrettedherthinkingthatforaninstant.Regretteditlikehell.Andheplannedto
makeituptoher.
“Cher.”Hecrossedtheroomandtookhershouldersinhisgrasp.“Nothingyousay
ordocanshockme.Ormakemestopwantingyou.”
Sheliftedherfacetohiswithasadsmile,onethattoldhimshewasholdingback
tears.Andhe,themanwithcontrolwhisperedaboutinhushedtonesamongD/scircles
alloverLouisiana,couldn’twaitanothersecondtotouchher.
Thrustinghishandsintoherhair,heanchoredherunderneathhimandcapturedher
mouthinablisteringkiss.Hepossessed,unabletostophimself,unabletotemperhis
thirsttoravageherlips,makehermeltandmoan…andgivein.Hell,hedidn’teventryto
stop.
Seize,devour,dominate.Itwaslikeachantinhisbrain,overandover,asheslanted
hismouthoverhers.Sinkingdeeperintotheheavenofher,heallowedhistonguetofind
hersandintertwineinanurgentdanceofneed.
Beneathhim,Morganmoaned,thesoundvibratingintohisbody.Whenhadhenot
wantedher?Whenhadheeverlookedatherandnotwantedtocallherhis?
Andlastnight…he’ddreamedofheragain.Notashe’dseenheronthewraparound
porchofhislittleswampcottagewiththesunglintingonherhair.No.He’ddreamedof
tomorrow,ofherinhisbed,wearinghispendant,submittingtotheburnofhis
demands,acceptinghisheartthewayhecherishedhers.
“Cher,”hewhisperedagainstherlips.“J’suisfoud’tecaresser.”
I’mdesperatetotouchyou.He’dneversaidanythingmoretrue.
“Jack,weshouldn’t…”
Heheardthecatchinhervoice,theregret.Damn,hehadtochangethat.Eraseit.
Replaceitwiththesharpedgeofjoy,theragingburnofpleasure.Withcomplete
submission.
“Thismorning,”hemurmuredagainstthesweetcurvesofherswollenlips.“Giveme
thismorning.We’llsorteverythingelseoutlater.”
Morganlookedupathim,herblueeyessoclear,likeabrightDecemberday.Andjust
now,theytelegraphedheruncertaintytangledwithherneedtogivein.Butthat
overthinkingmindofhersmadeherhesitate.
“Morgan.”Hedroppedhisvoiceanoctave,leanedin,pressedhisadvantage.“Don’t
sayno.”
Closinghereyes,thelonglashesfluttereddowntopalecheeksripewithahintofa
rosyflush.Aself-recriminatingsmiletwistedherfulllips.“I’veneverbeenabletosaynotoyou.”
Jackhopedtoerasethatwordfromhervocabulary,startingtoday.Butfirst…they
hadtofaceherultimatefantasy.
Hisultimatenightmare.
Tensionrakedathim,scrapingathisinsidesuntilhefeltpissedand…whatwasthe
rightword?Vulnerable.Yeah.Hisgutclenched.Andhestartedtosweat.
Despiteallthat,hehadtoknow,onceandforall,ifheandMorgancouldmakeit.
InthebackofJack’sheadlurkedonehauntingfact:Morgan’stotalsubmissiontohim
wouldhandhimhisultimaterevengeonafuckingsilverplatter—tohaveBrandon’s
fiancéebegginghimtomasterher.Tellinghimthatshelovedhimwhileclawingathis
backandcomingalloverhiscock.Sweet…buttheideaofrevengenowsatsourinhis
gut.NothingaboutthewayhewantedMorgan,abouttheneedthatturnedhiminside
outandfocusedwithunerringdemandonthiswoman,hadadamnthingtodowith
retribution.Morgan.JustMorgan.
She’dcometomeaneverythingtohim.
AndifMorganreturnedtoBrandonaftertoday,well…thenhisformerbuddywould
leavehisheartguttedandhavethelastlaugh—again.
Damn,hewishedhecouldavoidtellingherthetruthforjustabit,untilhehadtime
toassureMorganofhisfeelings,oftheirrightness.Shewasstillskittish,buthehadto
movefastorhewasgoingtoloseher.
“Standinthemiddleoftheroom,”hecommandedintothesoftmorningair.
Morganbitintothatplumpbottomlipwithherlittlewhiteteeth.Hersweetpink
tongueswipedacrossthesurfacenext,andJackimaginedwatchingherdragitacrossthe
headofhiscock.Heengorged,bitingbackacurseatthewaythiswomangottohim.
“Jack…”
Nobackingdownnow.Heraisedasharpblackbrowather,knowingshe’dgethis
displeasurewithoutaword.
“Sir,”shecorrected.
“Givemethismorning.”
Withanobedientnod,sheturnedandmadeherwaytothecenteroftheroom,near
theendofthebed.Shefacedthedisheveledbedding.
“Goodgirl,”hemurmuredashemovedtowardher,theirgazeslocked,makinghis
cockjerkwithimpatience,untilhestoodbeforeher,facingthedoor.“Givemeyour
wrists.”
Foronce,shecompliedwithoutpause.Andhecouldn’tstopasmilefromcreasinghis
face.She’dcomesodamnfarinjustafewdays.Notjustadmittinghernature,butgiving
intoit.Morganknewheintendedtobindher,andshejust…complied.Withperfect
obedience.Withtrustsopure,itsentaboltofpride,alongwithastabofhotneed,
straightthroughhim.
“Verysweet.”
Hekissedthesoftspotwhereherneckandshoulderjoinedandenjoyedwatchingher
shiver.Kissinghiswaydownherarm,henippedatthetenderfleshinthecrookofher
arm.Herbreathcaught,andhesmiledagainstherwrist,feelingherpulseaccelerate
againsthislips.
Withdrawingapairofleatherhasp-stylecuffsfromthebagbyhisfeet,whichhe’d
placedthereearlier,heattachedonetoeachwrist.Shedidn’tsayaword.
Withasmoothglideofhispalmunderhertowel,heteasedherinnerthighwith
whisperedfingertips,hoveringoh-so-closetoherdampheat,thatsweethoneyspothe
couldn’twaittotaste.ThestarchbegantoleaveMorgan’sposture,andwhenhetapped
thetenderfleshjustbelowherpussyinsilentdemand,shepartedherlegs.Hekneltto
herandslippedonthematchingthighcuffs,bucklingeachinplace.
JackfeltMorgan’seyesonhim,sharperthanbefore,buthedidn’traisehisgazeto
her,notyet.Hedidn’twanttogiveanythingaway,andasfuckingarousedashewas
now…notellingwhatshe’dreadinhisexpression.Instead,hefishedintothebagathis
feetagainandwithdrewtwovelvetcordsandsetthemonthehardwoodfloorbetween
them.
Letherwonder.
Then…heunwrappedthethickgreentowelfromherbody,unveilingherlushcurves
—andsuckedinaharshbreathofneed.Helefthercompletelybare,sunlightshafting
giantgoldenraysthroughtheroom,makingherfieryhairthecolorofalivingflameand
illuminatingthealabasterskinofhershoulders,translucentbreasts,andsoftbelly.And
herripepinknipples.
Shedidn’tflinch,didn’tprotest,beingsuddenlynaked.Theonlyreactionhesawwas
aadorablerosyflushspreadingacrossthepalecreamofherskin.Sodamnbeautiful,
nakedandsubmissiveandsurprisinglyself-assured.Thesightofhermadehiscockswell
more,jerk.Hefeltstrangledbyhisjeans,byhisneedforhertouch…
“Sir,wheredidthatbagcomefrom?”
Andalltheequipment.That’swhatshewantedtoknow.Hesmiled.Sheshouldn’tbe
asking,buthe’dindulgeherthisonce.
“WhenIrealizedyouweregonelastnight,Ithrewtogetherafewthingsbetomake
surethat,whenIfoundyou,youcouldn’tgetawayagain.”
“Oh.”Hervoicefluttered.
Hell,hecouldhearthearousalinhervoice.Thatquiveringnote,ripewithcuriosity,
yetabreathawayfromaneedywhimper,justaboutturnedhiminsideout.
Jackswallowedagainstaharshblastoflust.“AreyoureadyforwhateverIgiveyou?”
Shemethisgazesquarely.“Yes,sir.”
Nottestingherwasn’tanoption.Hedugintohisbagagainandproducedapairof
padlocks.Withthem,heattachedherwriststothecuffsaroundherthighs.Thelocks
clickedintoplace,loudintheroomsosilent,excepttheharshclipofherbreathingand
thepoundingofhisheartinhisears.
Hestood,intentionallycrowdingherandforcinghergazetohis.“You’rereadyfor
everythingI’mgoingtogiveyou?”
“Yes,sir.”
Sofarsogood…butdidshemeanit?Hefoundasetofanklecuffsinhisbag.The
supersoftblackleatherwhisperedoverhisfingers,thrillinghimwiththeideathey’d
soonbewrappedaroundherevensofterskin,keepingherinplacefor
anything…everythinghewanted.Heliftedthevelvetcordsfromthefloorandtied
eachontheOringatthefrontofthecuffsthatnowhuggedhertrimankles.
“Beverysure,”hedemanded.
Morganhesitated,hersoftgazepointeddown,seekinghis.Yes,shewantedtoknow
whatwasdifferent,whatawaitedher.Butshedidn’task,juststared.
“I’msure,”shewhispered.Andtheconfidenceonherfacetoldhimshemeantit.
“Sir.”
“You’reamazing,cher.”
Thesightofthoseblueeyes,filledwithlustandtrustwasakicktohisself-control.It
wasafuckingwonderhedidn’ttearoffhisclothesandramhimselfinsidehersweet
bodyintwosecondsorless.
Instead,Jackurgedherlegsfartherapart.Morgancompliedwithoutaword,then
wrappedthecordattachedtohercuffsaroundthebaseofthebed’ssolidcherryposts,
downlow.Hesecuredthemtight.
Shewasn’tgoinganywherenow.Andshelookedgorgeous,suchfairnessoutlinedin
blackleather,theredvelvetcordsservingtoanchorherinplaceandkeepherlegs
deliciouslyspread.He’dneverseenanythingsofuckingsexy.
Jackstood,fightingoffashiverofdesiresearinghimandthreateningtostriphis
control.
Eager—hell,shaking—withtheneedtotouchher,Jacksmoothedhispalmsdownher
sides,dippinginwiththeslightcurveofherwaist,ashedustedkissesdownMorgan’s
skin.Sheswallowedagaspashistouchdrifteddowntheflareofherhipsandhismouth
foundasensitivespotwherehipandthighmet.
Wasthereanythingmoreperfectthanherofferingofsuchfairskin,moretempting
thanpalmingthefirmlengthofherlegs,kneelingsoclosetotheheavenofherpussy?
Notinhismind.This…Morganandeverythingsheofferedwaseverythinghe’dlooked
for.
Heprayedtohelltodayprovedtheybothhadwhatittooktofulfilloneanother,be
thelovertheotherneeded.
Reachingaround,hetrailedhisfingersdowntheslopeofherbuttocks,grippedthe
backofherthighs.Wasshesofteverywhere?Yeah,anditjusttorehimup.He,who’d
killedinbattle,takenabullet,sustainedscarsfrommorethanoneknifefight,learnedto
tellhisenemytofuckoffineightlanguages,touchedMorganandherseemingly
untouchedskin.Heglidedhiswaydowncleartoherankles,hismouthfollowingthe
samehotpathuntilshewasclenchingherthighs,untilherlegstensedbeneathhis
handsandmouth.
“Areyouwet?”heasked.
“Yes,”shegasped,watchinghiseverymovewithwideeyes.Notstunnedorshocked.
Aroused.Dilated.Hungry.“Morgan?”hegrowledinwarning.
“Yes,I’mwet,sir.”
“Better,”hesaid,nibblingatthecreamyfleshofherinnerthighbeforeglidinghis
tongueupherhip.
Thesoundofhermoanresonatedinhisears.Damn,howthehellwashegoingto
last,withoutrisingtohisfeet,tearingoffhispantsandtakingwhattheybothneeded?
Withgentletugsonallherbindings,Jackassuredhimselftheyweresecure.Justone
more…
Reachingtohisbagagain,hepulledoutathickredsilkscarf.Perfect,hethought,
foldingthecrimsonscrapofclothandsettlingitoverhereyes.Morgancouldtouchand
tasteandhear—andthroughthosesensesexperienceeverythingsheneeded.Butshe
couldnotmoveorsee,whichallowedhimthecontrolhewantedandmightneed…justin
case.
Foramereinstant,Morgantensed.Butsheforcedherselftoexhale,torelax.Proudof
hercalm,dazzledbyhershowofabsolutetrust,hekissedhermouthlightly,savoringthe
flavorofherhottensionandbee-stungberrylips.
Fistsclenched,heeasedbackandsteppedpasther.Adeepbreath,alittleprayer.
Thenheforcedhimselftouncurlhisfingers,crosstheroomandopenthehotelroom
door.
CHAPTERSIXTEEN
MorganfeltJackwalkpasther.Behindher,thedooropened.AdraftofFebruaryair
breezedachillacrossherskin.Thenfootsteps.
Shetampeddownherpanic.Hewasn’tgoinganywhere.Hecouldn’tbe.Theraw
tendernessinhiseyesandtheunrelentinggripofhishandsonherconvincedMorganof
that.Sowhatthehellwasheupto?
Hecuppedhishandaroundhershoulderandsettledagainsther,whisperinginher
ear,“Thesafewordisstillswamp.”
Evenblindfolded,histensioncouldn’thavebeenclearerifhedrewherapicture.
“Okay,butIwon’tneedit.”
Jackexhaled.Warmbreathonhercheek,thenthesoftskateofhisfingertipsdown
theslopeofherbreast,followedbythehardpullofhismouthonhernipple.
Instantly,apathoffirezingedbetweenherbreastsandherclit.Moisturerushed
betweenherfolds.Thepleasurewassobright,Morganevenfeltacuriouswarmthather
back.Shecouldn’tsqueezeherlegstogetherforrelief,sinceJackhadtiedthemsofar
apart.Withherwristsattachedtoherthighs,shecouldn’traiseherarmstoclasphim
closerwhenheshiftedtotheotherbreast,makingthesecondnippleashardasthefirst.
Amoanslippedfreefromherthroat.
Caressingahanddownherbelly,Jackrewardedherwithasofttouch.Hisfingers
madeteasingcirclesacrossherthighs.Hisknucklessweptoverthefringeofherpubic
hair.
Hishandshook.
Morganheldherbreath,waiting,wondering…Whatwasgoingon?
Slowly,hekneltbetweenherfeet.Hishotbreathhitherright—Oh,yes!—thereashe
partedherslickfleshwithhisthumbsandexposedhereverysecret,strippingherbareof
uncertaintyandinhibitions,rippingoutanyconceptofwrongortaboo,andreplacingit
withneed.Morgansimplyfelthiseyesdevouringhermostsecretflesh,hungry,
singleminded.
Bloodrushedthroughherbody.Arushoftinglesscrapingacrossherskinmadeher
feelsototallyalive.Coolairagainstherbreastscontrastedwithablastofheatather
back…andtheraspofJack’shottonguedraggingacrossherclit.
Herheadfellbackonagasp.
“That’sit,”hemurmured.Helavedheragain.“Creamforme.”
Hefollowedthegentlenibblewithafirmswipeofhisthumbrightthere,whereshe
neededit.Once,twice,punctuatedbyhisseekingtongueagain.Andagain.Thenhis
mouthcoveredher,histonguelashingherclit,toying,stroking,inflaming.
Theriseofpleasurewassharp,beyondfighting—evenifshe’dwantedto.But
resistingwasthelastthingonhermind.Thickdesirestormedher…alongwitha
bittersweetcurlofemotion.HowwasshegoingtodowithoutJackafterhe’dfinished
withher?
Shovingthethoughtaside,Morganfocusedonthehereandnow.Desire.Shedugher
fingernailsintoherthighs.Inthefaceofherspiralingneed,abriefstingwastheonly
sensationshecouldspare.EverythingelsewasfocusedonJackandhismouth.And
whenheworkedapairoffingersintoher,shegasped,hangingontheedgebyathread.
“Youcan’tcomeyet,Morgan.”
Shewhimpered.“Please…”
“Tellmeagain,doyouwanteverythingIcangiveyou?”“Yes!Yes,sir.Now.”
Ahesitation,brief,bare.ThenJacksuckedherclitintohismouth.Anachebitinto
herbellywithunmercifulruthlessnessandpushedherclosertotheabyssofpleasure.
Shewhimperedasthehotswellofneedrusheduponher,pushingherclose,socloseto
theedgesofherrestraint.EverymuscleinherbodytensedunderthelashofJack’slazy,
insistenttongue.
“Good,”hemurmuredagainstherwet,swollensex.“Thencomeforus.”
“Us?”
Shockpingedthroughher.Hadsheheardhimcorrectly?
Asthewordfelloutofhermouth,thehotpressofahugenakedchestenvelopedher
back.AndJack’sstillkneltbetweenherfeet,herclitcaptiveoftheslowswipesofhis
tongue,twoofhisfingerspresseddeepinsideher.
Frombehindher,apairofbroadhandsreached,cuppingherbreasts,squeezingher
nipplesinatightgripjustshortofpain.
Thestrangerdroppedatentativekissjustbehindherear,asiftestinghiswelcome.
“Hi,doll.”
Scratchy,slightlyshortofbreath,yes,butthatvoice…Deke.
Oh,my…Wasthisreallyhappening?
Asshegasped,hesweptaburningpalmfromherbreast,downherbelly,delving
straightintoherdampcurls.Theroughskinofhisfingertipsbrushedoverherclit,while
Jack’sfingerswerelodgedtightinsideher.Twoinsistentmen,bothstrummingpartsof
herbodythatmadeherscream.Thefrictionandpressurejustaboutkilledher,
obliteratingeverythingbuttheabilitytoachewithpent-upneed.Shecouldn’tbreathe,
couldn’tthink.Shecouldn’tdoanythingbutrevelintheelectricsensationarcing
throughherbody.
“Comeforus,”Dekedemandedinherear,pressinginonherswollenbudasJack
scrapedtheinflamednervesinsideherchannel.
“Now!”Jackdemanded.
Afloodofbloodandneedcrashedinonherpussyandburst,explodingoutwith
pleasureandascreamofshockedecstasy.HerbodyclampedJack’sfingersinavicegrip.
Dekegroanedassheallbutdrenchedhishandwithhercream.
Slowly,theybroughtherdown.Gentletouches,soeasy.Theyworkedinperfect
tandem,insilence,bothreadingthecuesofherbodyperfectly.Stunned,awed,Morgan
felttearsprickthebackofhereyes.Therealityofwhathadjusthappenedrousedafresh
achedeepinsideher.
Jackslippedhisdigitsfromherchannel’sgripandremovedtheblindfold.She
blinkedagainstthesuddenrushofsunlightaseachofthemenroundedhershoulder
andcametostandinfrontofher.
Browneyesanddenimblue,bothpiercing,questioning,scorching.Morganshivered,
andtheypressedcloser,theirwide,muscledchestscoveredinfever-hotskinandnearly
eclipsingher.Shedidn’thavetolookdowntoknowshe’dseetwohungrycocksintenton
givingandtakingsatisfaction.
Morgandrewinashockedbreath.Oh,unreal.SheandJackandDeke,mostlynaked
andinahotelroom…Thiswasactuallyhappening.Trepidation,forbiddenthrill,aflare
ofarousal—thefeelingsbombardedhersoquickly,Morgancouldbarelysortonefrom
theother.
Exceptamazement.Justlastnight,Jackhadpouredouthisguts,hisheart,hispain,
hisfear.He’dbeenafraidthatsharinghermeantlosingher.Whathadchanged?
Dekethrusthisfingerinhismouth,samplingthejuiceofherarousalwithawicked
smile.Atthesight,afreshflushsweptthroughher,andMorgancursedherfairskin.He
justlaughed.
Jack’sgazewasmoreserious.“DekeandIareheretograntyourfantasy,cher.”
“Wewon’thurtyou,justgiveyouthegoodkindofpain,”Dekepromisedwithawink.
“Why?”HerquestioninggazefelltoJack,andthewhisperfelloutofhermouth.
Hecuppedherfaceinhishandsandsteppedcloser.“Irealizedthat,ifIwanttoclaim
youasmine,Ihadtohavetheballstogiveyoueverythingyouneed.Otherwise,Ican’t
trulybeyourmasterandI’mnobetterthanthatjackoff,Andrew.Tellmethisiswhat
youwant,andyou’llhaveitnow.We’rebothreadytodevotetodaytoyourpleasure.”
Claimmeashis?Asinbeyondtoday?Herheartpickedupspeedatthescary,
wonderfulthoughtofhavingJackinherlifeforever.
Shestood,unmoving,struckmute,mindracing.“Oh…wow.”
“I’mmorethanready.”AthreadofironiclaughterwoveitswaythroughDeke’s
voice.
“Doyoureallywantthis?”Jackmurmured.
Thosewordspoundedaheavydrumbeatofdesirebetweenherlegs…wherebothof
theirfingershadpossessedherandpushedhertoasearingrealmofpleasure.
Sensationoverloadaside,thiswasamomentoftruth:Didshewantbothofthem?
Couldshehandleaménage?Couldshetakereceivingwhatshe’dtoldJackshe’salways
wanted?
AnimageofJackandDekebothfillingher,fuckingher,nearlyhadhermoaning.Her
breastsached,herclitalreadythrobbedforattentionagain.Andherheartswelledasshe
realizedthatJackhadputasidehisfearandgivenherhistrustsothatshecould
experienceherfantasy.
Heclenchedhisjaw,fingerstighteningonhercheeks.Heneededheranswer.She
searchedhisfamiliardarkeyes,nowlikeaviseonherowngaze.Heneededher.Thefact
hewaswillingtodothistokeepherstunnedherutterly.Joyburstthroughherchest.
“Areyousure?”Hervoicetrembled.
“Watchingyouflushandswellinthesunlight,feelingyouwritheonmyfingers,
seeingyousmile,yeah.”Jacksoundedlikehe’dswallowedatruckloadofgravel.“Yeah.”
Abeautifulanswer,butstill…shehadtoaskthehardquestion.“You’renotgoingto
turnintoDestructoronsteroids,watchingDeketouchme?Thisisn’tgoingtoupset
you?”
Cuppinghercheek,hesighed.“IfIdon’tgivethistoyou,I’llloseyouanyway.AndI
believewebelongtogether,cher.Wehavetotrusteachothertohaveanytomorrows.”A
reluctantsmiletuggedathiswidemouth.“Besides,youlookedhotashellcomingfor
bothofus.”
“JackandItalkedaboutitearlythismorning.Hisheadisintherightplace,doll.”
“Soit’suptoyou.”Jackswallowed.“Allittakesisoneword,andwe’llfuckyou
beyondyoureverydream.Youjusthavetoacceptyourneeds.Yesorno.”
Themomentstunnedher…humbledher.Simplyamazing.SeeminglyimplacableJack
waswillingtoputasidehiseverymisgivingtograntherwish.Aballsymove,onethat
provedhereallydidn’twanttolethergo.Becausehecared.
ThankGod,becausehereveryattempttoshuthimoutofherbodyandhearthad
failedmiserably.
Now,allshehadtodotofulfillherfantasywasbebraveenoughtoacceptherwants,
thepleasure,theirdemand.
Afewshortdaysago,shecouldn’thaveacceptedthisoffer.Oh,shewouldhave
wantedto.Achedandyearnedto,infact.Jack’swordsalonewouldhavesetheronfire.
Butshameandworryandfearwouldhavedouseditintheend.
Now…noembarrassment,noapprehension.Justawhole,openacceptanceofwho
shewasandwhatshewanted.Jackhadsetherfree.Forthatalone,shelovedhim.
FreshtearspooledinhereyesasshelookedatJack.“I’dhugyou,ifIcould.”
Shewiggledherhandsbeneathherwristsboundtoherthighsasdualtonesofmale
laughterfilledtheroom.
“Isthatayes?”
“Yes.”Shepressedherbodyagainsthis.“Please,yes.”
“Cher,itwillbeourpleasure.”
Hesealedthedealwithakiss,slantinghishungrymouthoverherandurgingherlips
apartforhim.Immediately,hefilledhermouthwithhisuniqueflavor,somethingdark,
spicedwithCajuncoffee,whiskey,andmystery.She’dknowtheaddictivetasteofJack
anywhere.Shealsotastedjustahintofherownjuices.Butthegentlenoteofhiskisswas
new,infusedwithnotjustdesire,buthopeandpromise.Morganmelted.
Dekewasn’tcontenttobeidle,though.Hepressedhishotmouthtothesensitive
curvebetweenherneckandshoulder,skimminghisfingersupherbody,fromhipto
navel,upagaintoswirlaroundhertautnipplebeggingforattention.
Histhumbbrushedacrossitonce.Justonce.ShegaspedintoJack’smouth.Thenshe
moanedwhenhersexyCajunhottiepincheditsmate.
Thetwoofthemtogetherweregoingtobepurecombustion.
Arushofhotdesireblastedher,andherkneesdamnnearturnedliquidasJack
pressedkissesdownherjaw,hershoulder,workinghiswaystraighttothenipplehestill
grippedbetweenhisthumbandforefinger.
Dekeapparentlytookthatasasignbecausehecurledhugepalmsaroundhercheeks
andliftedherfacetohis,eyesburning.Alltracesoftheteasingbigguywhocalledher
“doll”hadbeenreplacedbyonehard,hungryman.Afreshboltoflustcrashedinher
belly.
Thatneedresonatedinhismoanashetookhermouthandpushedhiswayinside.
Deft,seductive,hisclevertonguedancedaroundhers,flirting,tasting,thenbacking
away.Hetaunted,givingherbrieftasteofhisrichflavor,tingedwithsomethingminty.
Shewasdrowninginaseaofneed.ThefeelofDeke’smouthoverhersasJacktoyed
withhernipplewasmakingforonehellofariptide.
Herabilitytotreadthewatersofheavydesiredidn’timproveanywhenDekenipped
hiswaydowntoherothernippleandbothmeneachworkedatasensitivenub.Ifshe
hadn’talreadybeenincrediblywet,thesightoftwomaleheads,oneliketawnylight,the
otherlikesilkenmidnight,wouldhavehadherjuicesrunninglikealeakyfaucet.Blood
rushedthroughherbody.Desireburnedachyandtightjustunderherskin,pooling
betweenherlegs,creatingaseaofneed.
Thetugsoftheirmouths,differenttimes,differentpressures,producedaunified
result:arousalthathadhersweating.Sensationsdartedfromhernipplestoherclitina
rapid-firesequenceherbodycouldbarelyprocess.
“Feelgood?”Jackliftedhishead,lipswetandredandsodamnkissable.
Shewhimperedinanswer.
“Ithinkthat’sayes,”Dekewhisperedbesidehim.
Standingathersidenow,Jackurgedhertowardthebed.Dekehelped,onehand
guidingherbytheshoulder,theotherpalmingherass.Shewaitedforthemtohelpher
ontoit.
Theydidn’t.
Whenherthighsbumpedthemattress,theybentherovertherumpledbed,then
disappearedbehindher.Morganclosedhereyes,awareofbeingnakedandvulnerable
andexposed.Andoftwosetsofeyesdevouringher.
Zippersrasped,clothesrustled.Someonedippedahandintothatlittlebagoftricks
nearherfeet.Foilripped.Herheartpickedupspeed.Whatweretheydoing?Noanxiety
intherequest,justdying-to-knowcuriosity.Amillionforbiddenimagesfloodedher
brain,eachsexierthanthelast.AndallbecauseJackwantedtofulfillhersohecould
claimher.
She’dbarelyrecoveredfromthethoughtwhenDekeeasedaroundthesideofthebed
again,thistimecompletelynaked.She’dseenthehardmusclesthatslabbedhischest
andrippledacrosshisabdomen.Evenmoresolid,leanfleshropedhisthighsandframed
athick,heavilyveinedcock.Hergazeflewfromittohisface,andheshotherawrysmile
asheclimbedonthebed.
Behindher,Jackgrabbedherhipsandleanedoverherback,thehairdustinghis
chestraspingoversensitiveskin.Sheshivered.
“I’mthedirectorhere,Morgan.WhatIsaygoes.Areyouclear?”
Sheswallowed,nodded.“Yes,sir.”
“Good.Deke…”Jackliftedoneofthehandsfromherhips,justforamoment,
apparentlygivingtheothermansomesortofsignal.
Clearly,Dekeunderstoodit,becausehesidledcloserasJackedgedherawayfromthe
bedjustenoughforhisfriendtoeaseinfrontofher.
Morgan’sheartbegantopounddoubletime.Deke’sbodywassoclose,shecould
smelltheheadymuskrisingfromhisslightlypartedlegs,seetheindividualhairs
dustinghisthighs,seeeveryveinbulgingunderthesoftskinofhisrigidcock
Jackurgedherclosertoit,graspedherhipsinhisgreedyhandsandpressedthe
swollenheadofhiserectiontoherweepingentrance.Heeasedinafraction,butonly
enoughtoteaseher.
Hisflaredfleshburnedagainsthers.Shemoaned,writhed,doingherbesttotempt
him.Sheachedtofeelhimimpaleher,stretchher.Ajoltofneednearlyhadher
screaming.Morganbitherlip,wriggledherhips.Jackmerelykeptherinplace,stretched
outonatorturousrackofdenial.
“Youwantmetofuckyou?”hedemanded.
“Yes,sir.”
“Iwill,”hewhisperedinherear.“Whenyousuckhiscock.”
Hiswordslashedherwithlikeawhipofdesire,stingingacrosshersenses.Morgan
tossedawide-eyedstareoverhershoulder.
“IwanttowatchyourmouthonhimwhileIfuckyou.Doitnow.”
Aheavycravinggnawedather,pulsinglowinherbelly.Shewantedto.Andshe
wantedJacktowatch—andgethotashell.
TurningbacktoDeke,Morganfocusedonhiserection.Hewasdefinitelyin
proportionwiththerestofhisgargantuanbody.Therewasnowayshewasgoingtobe
abletotakehimallinhermouth.Ever.
Butitcouldbedamnfuntrying,knowingthatwitheveryswipeofhertongue,she’d
bedrivingnotjustDekeoutofhisheadwithlust,butJack,too.
“Yes,sir.”
Beforeshe’devenfinishedspeaking,Deketookhernapeinagentlegripwithone
callousedhandandwrappedaruthlessfistaroundhiscockwiththeother.Thenheled
herheaddown.
Asshedraggedhertongueacrosstheswollenhead,Dekegroaned.Jackissuedan
echo.
Morgandiditagain,lavingmoreofDeke’sflaredcrestwiththeflatofhertongue.
Watchinghisthighsgotaut,sheswirledaroundtheridgeofhiscock,thenswipedher
wayacrossthesurfaceagain,gratifiedathisgrowlinherearandthesalty-muskytasteof
himleakingacrosshertongue.
“Jesus,Jack,”Dekemoaned.“She’storture.”
“She’sjustgettingstarted.Aren’tyou,cher?”
Heeasedthehotheadofhiscockoutofherachingvagina,andshemoanedin
protest,rightagainstthepurplecrestofDeke’sengorgederection.
“Suckhim,”Jackdemanded.“Don’ttoywithhim.”
Butdamnit,Jackwastoyingwithher.
CastingaglanceupatDeke’sface,tautlinesofstrainbracketedhismouth.Hisblue
eyesflaredwithdemandandafieryhungerthattightenedthescrewsoflustinsideher,
untilthepowerofherneedobliteratedallbutherhunger.
Hegrittedhisteeth,butstillmanagedtojoke,“Canyouhurry,doll?You’dreallybe
helpingmeouthere.”
Lookingbackdown,shewatchedwithhelplessfeverasDekestrokedthestalkofhis
fleshruthlessly,hisgripsotightandrough,itshockedher.Thrilledher.
Theheavyknotofdesirepulsedbetweenherlegsandswelledatthesightofhim.It
jabbedherwithhotimpatienceasJackfedhertwoscantinchesofhiscockandstopped.
Sweatbrokeoutacrossherback,andshelickedherlips,herbrainunabletokeepup
withtheneedsofherbody.Thetormentwasalmosttoomuch.
Deke’sfingerstightenedonthebackofherhead,pushingherdownagain.Yes,she
wantedthis.Totastehim.ToknowthatJackwatchedinapprovalandarousal.
MorganopenedhermouthandsuckedinasmuchofDeke’shardlengthasshecould,
coatinghishot,dryskinwithhersaliva.Themoistureeasedherwayasshedrewback,
thenpusheddownhiscockagain,takinghimtothebackofhermouth.
Hesatheavyonhertongue,salty,sodamnhotandspicy.Histasteratchetedupher
arousal.SodidknowingJackwatchedhereverymove.
“Goodgirl,”Jackpraisedasheplungedhiscockdeepintoherchannel,upagainstthe
mouthofherwomb,wherehepressedagainstaspotthatmadehermoanandsquirm
andwrithe.“Aslongasyou’resuckinghimgood,I’llfuckyougood.Youstop,Istop.
Youcomebeforehedoes…I’llgiveyouhell.”
Afreshboltoflusthitherlikelightning,white-hotandelectric.Jackwasn’tjust
gettingthreepeopleinaroomforafuckfest.No.Justlikeheunderstoodthethoughts
thatmadeupherdarkestneeds,hedominatedher,orderinghertoparticipate,freeing
herfromanyreinshermoralitymighthaveputonher.
Noddingherassent,Morganbobbedherhead,hertongueraspingagainstDeke’s
cock.Thebigblondgianthissedinappreciation,andhisfingerstuggedonherhair,
sendingdeliciouspinpointsofpainacrossherscalp.
God,shewasburningup.Jack’sfirmstrokesraspingagainstherwetfleshwasshort-
circuitingherbrain.HiseverypushsentherbobbingoverDeke’scock,andsheswirled
hertonguealloverhim,moistening,laving,teasinghimwitheverystroke,lovingthefeel
ofhimheavyonhertongue—andJack’sstarehotonherback.
Betweenthetwoofthem…Thetorturerackofpleasurestretchedherfurther.Shewas
onfire,searedwithlustthatagonized.Hernipplesached,herclitscreamedforattention.
SheimaginedpushingJackandDekeintoclimaxatthesametime.Thethoughtmade
herinsanewithneed.
MorgantightenedaroundJack,clampingdownonhim,asshedraggedhertongueup
theslicklengthofDeke’scock.Bothmengroaned,longandguttural.OneofJack’s
handstightenedonherhip;theotherdelvedpastherdampcurlsandpress-rubbedher
clituntilshecriedout.Dekeuppedthepleasurebypinchinghernipplesuntilthebiteof
pain,theshockinghedonismoftheirdemands,nearlythrustherovertheedgeandsent
herplummetingintohotsatisfaction.
“Notyet,”Jackwarned,voicestrainednearlybeyondrecognition.
Heeasedbackonhislong,grindingstrokesdeepinsideher.
“No!”sheprotested,tearinghermouthawayfromDeke.Damnit,howcouldJackdo
thistoher?Shethrobbed.They’dtiedherinknotsofneed.Andwasn’tthisherfantasy?
“Jack!”
“That’ssirtoyou,”heremindedherwithagrowl—andafirmwhacktoherassanda
gentlepinchofherclit.“Nowsuckhim,makehimcome.Thenyou’llgetyours.”
Withnomercywhatsoever,Dekewatchedherwithrawhungerashefilteredhis
handsthroughherhairagainandtuggedherdowntohiscock.
Morganclosedhereyes.Sheoughttobepissed.Flaminglyfuriousatthewaythey
demandedandcontrolledandwithheld.Butno.Shewasmorearousedthanshe’dever
beeninherlife.
“Suckmehard.”
Deke’svoicewaslikesandpaperonsteelwool.Thesoundofitmadeheatflarelikea
furnacerunningfullthrottle,madeherpussyclenchwithneed.
ShesuckedDekeintohermouthandgaveademandingpullonhim.Hestiffened
evenmoreagainsthertongueandgrippedherhairinharshfists.Inreward,Jack
plungedintoher,proddingatherswollenclitwithhisfingers,nowcoatedwithherjuice.
Shecriedout.
God,itwassomuch.Toomuch.AndeventhoughJackhadbackedoffthehotpaceof
hisstrokes,shestillfelttheinfernoofdesireraging,climbing,threateningtolickatheruntilherbodyexplodedintoathousandpleasure-rentpiecesandsanityfled.
Asifsensinghowcloseshewas,Jackeasedawayagain.Morganwhimpered.Shehad
tocome.Soon,damnit.Now!
SherededicatedhereffortstoDeke’scock,lavingfromroottotip,lingeringonthe
hiddenspotjustbeneaththeflaredhead,wrappinghertonguearoundthethickroot.
Thenshetookhiminhermouth,deep,backtoherthroatandsuckedhard.Hercheeks
hollowed.Beneathher,Dekegotevenharder.Andhegroaned,urgingheron.
“Oh,that’sit.Holyshit,doll,you’vegotamouth…That’sit.Sohot,sogood.Suckmy
cock.”
Hethrustupintoher,fuckinghermouthonce,twice.Again,heswelledagainsther
tongue,bulgingsothatshefelteveryridge,everyvein,thepulseofsemenbeneaththe
skin.
“Jesus,Jack,”hepanted.“I’mnotgoingtolast.”
“Goodgirl,”Jackpantedinherearsashecoveredherbackwithsweat-slickfleshand
finallybegantopistoninandoutofherachingpussy.“Swallowhim.Everydrop.”
Morganbobbedherheadinunderstanding,franticnowwitharousal.Sheclawedher
thighsasdesireballoonedinsideher.HerbellycrampedwithneedasDekeengorged
again.Hepulsedonhertongue—hard.Thenhecriedout,thegutturalsoundripped
fromhischestasifthepleasurewaspureagony.Hishotseedfilledhermouth,salty,
milky.ShebarelyhadtimetoswallowbeforeJackstiffenedbehindher,grippingherhips
ruthlessly,andfuckedherwitheveryounceofpowerhepossessed.
Up,up,up—shedidn’tclimbtheladderofarousal.Sherocketedstraighttothetop
withthefeelofJack’scockstretchingher,raspingagainsthereverynerveending.The
beginningsofclimaxflutteredinsideher,andMorganwhimpered,soreadytoletgo.
“Don’tcome,”Jackcommanded.“Ididn’tgiveyoupermission.”
Whothehellwashekidding?Frantically,Morganshookherhead.Shecouldn’tstop
it.Couldn’t.
Jacksmackedherass,andMorganinstinctivelyjumpedtoobey.Why,damnit?She
wantedtocome.
Butshewantedtopleasehimmore.SoMorgantensed,tryingtopushoutsensation,
tostopherbody’sheadlongrushtosatisfaction.
“Holdon,doll,”Dekeencouraged.
Sheraisedhereyestohis,pleading,needing.Hejustshookhishead,thoseblueeyes
promisingmore—muchmore…later.
Sherailed,whimpered.God,theeroticedgeofpleasurepainhadneverbeenso
overpowering.
Behindher,Jackgrippedherhipsashepoundedintoherwithjackhammerstrokes
thathadherweak-kneedandmewling.Thedrumbeatofdesirepulsedinherclitashe
continuedtorampherupandup.
Thenheswelled,stiffened.Andwithasavageshoutandalastbrutalthrust,Jack
came,longandhardandpowerfully.
Morgandidn’t.Thoughdenyingherselfhadhertenseashellandcryingout.God,
she’dalmostrathertearthetopoffofherheadandpouracidinside.Theachewaseating
herup.Sohot.Sodamnachy.Tearsstunghereyes.Thiscouldn’tgoon…
Jackwithdrewfromherbodyandtoreoffhiscondomwithasatisfiedsmile.Bastard!
Hejustleftherheretoburnalive.
Sheglared,makingplanstoskewerhimalive,stringhimupbyhisballs.Thiswasher
fantasy,andnowhereinitdidshegowithoutorgasm!
“Wow,”Dekecommented.
“Fiery,isn’tshe?”
“StoptalkingaboutmeasifI’mnothere!Youtwoputmeinthis…state.”
“We’llfixyou,”Jackassured.
“When?Nextmonthisn’tgoodenough.Evenfiveminutesfromnowistoolongto
wait.”
Morganjerkedagainstherbonds,frustrationeatingather.Butshecouldn’tdo
anything,especiallytouchherownclit.Havingtwopairsofhotmaleeyesdevouringher
wasonlymakingherhotter,expandingthenever-endingneed.
“Getonthebed.”
Jack’sdeepvoicepingedintheair,tellingherhewouldn’ttolerateanymoreofher
outburstsItwasonthetipofhertonguetotellhimtofuckhimself…butultimately,she
couldn’tdisobey.Notwhenhespokelikethat.Notknowingthewayshelongedtoplease
him.Thesubmissiveinherrelented,needingtobowtohisstrongerpresenceandgive
herselfintohiscare.
Shetrustedthathewouldgiveherwhatsheneeded.
Morganapproachedthebed,uncertainexactlyhowhewantedher.Jackdidn’tlether
flounder,buthelpedherontoherknees—straddlingDekeashelaybackwithagrin.His
searingbluegazewasfixedonthewetcurlsbetweenherlegs,andalreadyhiscockstood
likeastonecolumnagainsthisbelly.
Please,pleasedon’tletthemwanthertofuckDekewithoutcoming.
Onherknees,JackurgedherupDeke’sbody,pasthisthighsandtohiships.Buthe
didn’tstop.Hekeptpushingherupandup,pastDeke’sabsandchest.Thentheblond
hulkhimselfliftedher,settlingherkneesoneithersideofhishead.
“I’vegottogetmymouthonthispussy,”hegroaned.
Hedoveintoherlikeamanpossessed,tonguespearingatherdrenchedchannel,
thenlashingatherclit.Morgangaspedattheshockingburstofsensation.Anycooldown
she’dachievedinthelastthreeminutesevaporatedatthefirsttouchofDeke’smouth.
Shesquirmed,tryingtofindrelieffromthesweettortureofhisteethgentlynibblingher.
Hewasn’tabouttoallowthat.Instead,hewrappedhisarmsaroundherthighsanchoring
herinplace.
Morganmightbeontop,butDekewascompletelyincontrol.
“Youlooksodamnsexy,”Jackrumbledinherearfrombehindher,hisvoicethick
withdesire.“Ican’twaituntilwe’rebothfuckingyouandyouwashusinyourcreamas
youcome.”
Bothfuckingher?God,yes.Jackunderstoodwhatshecraved.Andhe’dgiveittoher.
Shehopedbeforesheexpiredfromunfulfilledneed.
Jackfiddledwiththelocksathersides,andsuddenlyherwristswerefree—justin
timeforDeketosuckherclitintohismouthandnearlysendherrocketingintothe
stratosphere.Nearly.Buthedidn’tlethergoyet.
“CanIcome?”SheturnedpleadingeyesonJackashebenttoretrievenewitems
fromhisbagoftricks.“Please.”
“Notyet.I’lltellyou,cher.”
“Ican’tstop…”shepanted,gaspingforhernextbreath.“It’stoo…”
“Youcan.Youwill,”Jackdemanded.
Afreshcoatofperspirationglazedherskin.Anewjaboflustsizzledinsideher
pussy.ThesamewhimperthatfailedtomoveJackbeforefailedtomovehimnow.
Damnhim!Shewasbarelyhangingonhere…Herfoldsfeltswollentofourtimesthe
normalsize,andstillDekekeptbringingtheheat,thepleasure,leavingherjustonthe
thresholdofanatomicorgasm.AndJackjustkeptwatchingtheshow,idlytoyingwith
hernipples,likehehadalldaytoenjoy.
“Leanforwardandbraceyourselfonyourhands,”Jackcommanded.
Morgancomplied,hopingthatthey’dlethercomeandendthemaelstromoflust
drivingheroutofhermind.Theorgasmbrewingjustgrewandgrew,expandinginto
somethinglargerthanshe’deverimagined.Whenthispeakhit,itwasgoingtokillher.
Amomentlater,Jackwedgedapairoffingersdeepinherpussy.Hewriggled,
reawakeningnerveshiscockhadstrokedtolife.Buthedidn’tstay.No,thosefingersof
hisdraggedherjuicesbacktothesmallerholeinback.
Hewasgoingtofuckherthereagain.Andoncehedid,therewasnowayshecould
stoptheorgasmbubblinginhergutfromcompletelyovertakingher.
“Jack!Sir…”
“Yourskinissoflushedandpretty,”hemurmuredagainstherbackasonefinger
toyedwiththepuckeredrosette.
“Hertasteisfuckingaddicting,too,”Dekemutteredagainstherpussybeforehedove
backin,suckingherclitintohismouth.
Thedarkacheofdesirethrobbedharder.Theedgerushedcloser,loominghugeand
unavoidableinitsburninggrip.God,theheatblisteredher.Shecouldn’tholdback
muchlonger.Herinnerwallsfluttered.HerclitthrobbedagainstDeke’stongue.Justone
moresensation,anddenyingherclimaxwouldnolongerbepossible.
Jackseemedoblivioustohersensualdistress,takinghissweettimedraggingher
creamfromherweepingentrancetotheforbiddenholeinback.Morganfoundherself
pushingbacktowardhisfingers,whimpering,pleading.
“Areyoumine?”hewhisperedrightinherear,soshealonecouldhear.
“Yes.”
“Completely?”
“Yes.God,yes.”
“You’llstaywithme?Bemine?Wearmycollar?”
“Yes,yes,yes,”shechanted.
Hepositionedafingeragainstherbackentrance,andeverynerveendingjumpedas
hebegantopressin.
“Oh,yes!”Shecouldbarelygetthewordsout,barelyfindabreathtosaythem.Dizzy,
hot,achingtightunderherskin,Morganbabbledwithmindlessappreciation.
JackthrusthisfingerdeepinherassatthemomentDekescrapedherclitwiththis
teeth.
“Come!”Jackshouted.
Butshe’dalreadystarted.Nothingcouldstopherfromflyingapart,explodingintoa
millionsizzlingpieces,burningunderthepressureofJack’sinvadingfinger,achingat
theadroitministrationsofDeke’sinsistenttongue.
Shedidn’tmoanorcryout.Shescreamed,longandloud,grippingthebedsheets
withherhandasthepulseswentonandonandon.Theclimaxshatteredher,hittingso
hard,shelostherbreath.Hergutcramped.Dizzinessassailedherasherheartbeat
poundedinherearslikeastaccatodrum.
God,shewasdying.Righthereinthislittlecottageroom,burstingintosomany
flaminglittlepiecesofherself,she’dneverbeabletoputthemallbacktogether.And
shedidn’tcare.
Dekeeasedherdownhisbodyandreachedforsomethingnearhiship.Acondom,
sherealizedamomentlater,asshewatchedhimtearopenthefoilwithhisteeth,rollit
on,andgrabherhipsinworld-recordtime.
Again?Oh…Shehadallthemusclecontrolofaragdollrightnow,hadjusttaken
whatfeltlikethefirstraggedbreathofairinhours,andtheywantedtofuckherinto
orgasmagain?
BeforeDekethrusthome,Jackwithdrewhisfingerfromherassandreplaceditwith
thesearingwidthofhislubricatedcock.
“Jack…Sir,”shebegantoprotest.
“Takeme,”hedemandedonagroan.“Takeus.”
Andheslidin,dark,ruthless,demandingthatsheopenwideandaccepteveryinchof
himinherassrightnow.Moaningatthefeelofhimstretchinghersocompletely,
Morganpusheddownuntilhe’dsheathedhisentirecockinsideandhisballsslappedat
herpussy.
Andtherehestayed,completelyunmoving.
Shockingly,thefeelingofhimtunnelinginsideherdark,forbiddenpassageroused
heralloveragain.Shetriedtowriggleandwhimper.Deke’shandsstayedherhips.Her
previousscreamhadstolenmostofhervoice.Thenewjoltofdemandscorchingthrough
herbodytooktherest.
Theywerekillingher.Honesttogoodnesskillingher.
Beforeshecouldfindawaytorecover,tocope,Dekepositionedhisthickcockatthe
weepingentranceofherpussyandthrustinside,drivinghiswayinquickly,pushingpast
resistance,shovingininchafterinchafterruthlesslyhardinchinsideher.
Oh.My.God.Stretchedsofull,packedtight.Theburnoftheircocksputhersenses
onoverload,sentherreelingstraightbacktothekindofsharparousalthathadher
holdingherbreath,callingJack’sname,grippingDeke’sshoulderstostaygroundedin
realityinthemidstofthismind-blowingfantasy.
Andthentheybegantomove,likeawell-timeddancedesignedformaximum
devastationtohersenses.Jackwithdrew,Dekethrustin.Jackthrustin,Dekewithdrew.
Andfriction,ohGod…Theheatoverwhelmedher.She’dneverhadsomanynerve
endingsscreamingallatonce,andDekeonlymadeitworsewhenhepressedathumbto
herclit.
“Jesus,she’stight,”hegroundout.
“Andshehasathinmembranebetweenherassandherpussy.Ifeeltheheadofyour
cockdraggingoverme.Damn!”
“Yeah,”Deke’sfacetwistedintoamaskofconcentration.“She’skillingmycontrol.”
“Whatcontrol?”Jackgrowled.“Cher,comewhenyoucan,asmuchasyoucan.”
ThatwasalltheinvitationMorganneeded.AtthefeelofDeke’scockpressingright
againsthercervixandtheslickpadofhisthumbdraggingacrossherswollenclit,she
exploded,seeinglightandstarsbehindhereyes.Hell,shewouldn’tbesurprisedif
someonetoldhertheheavenshadparted.
TheexplosionwasJack’stocommand,andsharpasamachete.Thetwomentoreher
apartwiththick,sublime,unearthlypleasure.
JackrewardedherbyreachingaroundherandliftingherbreasttoDeke’smouth.He
tookthenipplebetweenhislipshungrily,drawinghard,nippingwithhisteeth.
Sensationzingedfromherbreasttoherbelly,straightdowntowhereDekeimpaledher
withthewickedlengthofhiscock…andlower,totheforbiddenthrillofJacklodgeddeep
insideher.
Together,theyscrapedherraw,shovingherupimpossiblyhigher,rightinto
somethinghugeandirresistible.Indescribable.
She’dbarelycaughtherbreathwhenshefeltJack’sfleshpushintoher,dragging
acrossallhertinglingnerveswhileheexhaledonherneckandwhispered,“You’remine.
Iloveyou.”
SomethingcrackedinMorganathiswords,deepinside.Thelastofherresistance
brokefree.Shesentahelplessglanceoverhershoulderathim,knowinghertotal
submissionshowedinhereyes,andsheclimaxedagain,zoominghigherthaneverin
shudderingsurrender.
Clampingdownonthepairofcockssohard,bothweretrappeddeepinsideheras
theorgasmrolledoverher,waveafterwaveerupting,bringinguttersubmissionwithit.
Tearsrolleddownhercheeks.Inthatmoment,Morganwasn’therself.Shedidn’t
worryaboutwhetherthischoicewasrightorwhatotherswouldthinkorifshecouldlive
withherselflater.Astheycamewithher,groaningandgasping,shewasatpeace.Perfect
blessedpeaceinperfectrushingpleasureforthefirsttimeinherlife.
“Yes!”shecriedout,hervoiceascreechofpain,need,love,andcompletion.
“Iloveyou,”hepantedinherear.“Tellme…”
“Yes!Yes,Iloveyou.”
Asthepleasuresubsided,Jackwrappedhisarmsaroundhertight,sotightitseemed
he’dneverletgo.ThatwasjustthewayMorganwantedit.
#
Noonslantedthroughthewindowsonthebedandbreakfast’squaintcottage,
illuminatingMorgan’sfieryhairandbare,paleskinasshecurledupnexttohimin
slumber,herheadpillowedonhisshoulder.Dekelaybehindher,hishandlaxinsleepas
hedrapeditaroundherwaist.Theylookedsopeaceful.Andhewasinhell.
NotbecauseDeketouchedher.Surprisingly,he’dknownalmostfromthemoment
theylaidtheirhandsonMorganjustashortfewhoursagothatshemightappreciate
Deke’stouch,butherheartwasn’tinvolved.Afterthat,Jackhadsimplyenjoyedthe
fireworksherfantasyhadinspired.
Ashe’dhoped,Morganhadsurrenderedutterly,totally,givenhimeverybitof
herself,herbody,herpassion.He’dwrungfromherthesortofabidingsubmissionhe’d
beenseekingsincethemomenthe’dfirstseenher.
She’dtoldhimthatshelovedhim.
Sohowthefuckwashegoingtotellhernowthathe’darrangedtheirmeetingand
plottedtofuckher,strictlytogetrevengeagainstherfiancé?Ex-fiancé.Therewasnoway
hewasgivingheruptoBrandonRossaftertoday.
Problemwas,whatifshewantedtogobacktothepansyassbastard?
Hewasgoingtohavetocomeclean,explainhowandwhyhe’darrangedtheir
meeting,andswearonhislifethathiseveryintenthadchanged,virtuallyfromthe
momenthe’dtouchedher.
Hell,heshouldhavedonethisalongtimeago.Jacksighed,clenchedhisfists.When
revengehadtakenabackseattowinningMorganforhimself,heshouldhavebeen
honest,laidhiscardsoutonthetable.Dreamingupwaystowinhertrust,onlyto
confessthathe’dlied,hadbeenthestupidestfreakin’ideaever.
Shovingdownthegut-tighteningfearthathewasgoingtoloseher,Jackkissedher
awake.
PleaseGod,don’tletthisbethelasttimeshelethimtouchher.
Slowly,hereyesflutteredopen.Herlanguidbluegaze,satedsmileandcatlikestretch
alljabbedathisheart.Shewasn’tjustbeautifultohim,butperfectforhim.Helovedher
like…he’dneverlovedanywoman.Andifhedidn’tplayhiscardsright,shecouldwalk
outthedoorforever.raisedamean-lookingBrowningHi-PowerandpointeditatJack.
Heheldinabitingcurse.“Now!”
“Morgan.Cher…”hewhispered.
Nowwhat?Wherewerehissuavewords.Howthehellcouldhephrasethis?
“Ihavetotellyousomething,”hemurmured.
Hergingerbrowsslopeddowninatiredfrown.Sheyawned,coveringhermouthwith
thebackofherhandinagesturebothwomanlyandchildlikeatonce.
Tendernessjerkedhisheartasanxietykickedhimintheteeth.God,he’dalmost
rathercuthisballsoffwithadullrustyknifethanshatterthebondbetweenthem.
“Hmm.”Shemoaned.Hereyesdriftedhalf-closedasshesenthimasleepysmile
Behindher,Dekeshifted,hishandlowering,curlingaroundherhip.Thenheletouta
snore.Morgangiggled.
IgnoringDeke,Jacktookholdofherface,gazedelvingdownintohers.“Iloveyou,
cher.Ihavetoknowsomething.YouandBrandon…”
Thatbroughthereyesopen.Wideopen.
Shegasped.“Jack,I—”
“Doyoulovehim?”hedemanded.
Morganhesitated,clearlysearchingforwords.Painstompedhisgut.Damnit,this
wasgoingtoriphisfuckingheartouttohearthatshedid.
“Yes,butnotthewayyouthink.He—”
Something—someone—poundedonthedoor.Amomentlater,woodsplinteredina
deafeningsound.Thedoorcrashedopen,slammingagainstthewall.
JackscrambledinfrontofMorganandfacedthethreatthatstoodintheirdoorway.
BrandonRosswearingabusinesssuitandasnarlfromhell.
“Getyourfuckingfilthyhandsoffher,Cole.”Brandon
CHAPTERSEVENTEEN
“Brandon!”Morgancried,peeringaroundJack’sshoulder.
Herhalf-brother’sthin,elegantframefilledthedoorway.Furymorphedintoshock
whenherealizedshewasinbedwithtwomen.Mortificationblastedopenapitofdark
dreadinMorgan’sstomach.Toobadshecouldn’tcrawlintoitanddisappear,she
thoughtasshescrambledtocoverherselfwithasheet.
“Putthegundown!”shedemanded.
Heignoredher,insteadscowlingatJackasifthefiresofhelllurkedinhiseyes.
Onherleft,Dekehadawakenedandleapedinfrontofher,besideJack,toprotecther.
“Thisisn’tthewayitlooks,Brandon,”Jackassured.
“Yes,it’sexactlythewayitlooks.”
Morgancouldn’tmistakeherbrother’sgrowl,butitbarelyregistered.Besidesthat
unnervinggun,shewasstuckononefact…
“Youtwoknoweachother?”
“Oh,shit,”Dekemutteredandeasedoffthebedtoputonhisjeans.“Herewego…”
EvenDekeknewwhatwasgoingon?MorganfrownedandshotJackaquestioning
glance,scramblingmentallytounderstand.Jack’sfacetightenedwithanger,regret.And
unmistakableguilt.Whatthe…?Shewashavingasmuchsuccessdecipheringthis
situationasshewouldwatchingasoapoperainSwedish.
“Youdidn’ttellher?”Brandonsaidincredulously.“No,ofcourseyoudidn’t.That
wouldhavemadegettingyourrevengemuchharder.Butthisway,notonlydidyougetto
fuckherandgetbackatme,youobviouslysharedherwithyourGIJoebuddyherefor
paybackwithinterest,sinceitbeatsthehelloutofanythingIdidtoyou.”
Revenge?“Whatisgoingon?”Morgandemanded,frowning.
Shecouldn’tfollowtheconversation…butwhatshedidunderstandseemeddamn
ugly.JackhadtakenhertobedtogetbackatBrandon?For…?
“Letmeexplain.”Jackturnedandtookhershouldersinhishands.“Thisisgoingto
lookbadandsoundworse,butIswear—”
“He’sasneakysonofabitchlookingforanywaytostabmeintheback,”Brandon
spat.“Getawayfromhim,Morgan.Don’tlisten.”
“ItoldyouhowIfelt,cher,”Jackvowedinawhisper.“Whateveryouheartoday,my
feelingsarereal.Ididn’tlieaboutthat.”
Untilthismoment,shehadn’tdoubtedit.Now,dismayinfectedeverybreathMorgan
took.Sheknew,justknew,somethingwasreallywrong.Andthatshewasn’tgoingtolike
it.
“Butyouliedaboutsomethingelse?”
“Itoldyoutogetyourhandsoffher!”BrandonwavedthegunatJackagain.
“Takeiteasy,man.”Jackeasedoffthebedandslowlyreachedforhisjeans.“Let’s
haveacalmconversationaboutthissituationand—”
“No,let’stellMorganthetruthandseeifshefeelslikehavingacalmconversation.”
“Youdon’tknowthetruth!”Jacksnarled,tendonsstandingoutinhisneck,fists
clenched.“Youknowwhatthislookslike,butyoudon’tknowshit.”
“Soyoudidn’tpursueMorganandbribeherproductionassistant,Reggie,toforward
yournameandIMtoherforsupposeduseontheshow?”
MorganlookedtoJackforadenial.Hesaidnothing.
“Whywouldyoudothat?”sheasked.
Amuscletickedinhisjaw.“I…”
“Becausehewantedtomeetyou.No,that’snotright.Hewantedtolureyoutohis
side,fuckyou,thenmakesureIknewaboutitsohecouldgethispoundofflesh.
Literally.Isn’tthatright,Jack?”
ThickhorrorslidthroughMorgan.SheturnedhergazetoJack,hoping,prayingfor
hisdenial.Heclosedhiseyesandbowedhishead.Theguiltonhisfacecameraging
back,diggingintohisfurrowedbrow.
Oh,God.Brandonwastellingthetruth.Morgan’sstomachlurchedasbetrayalstung
herheart.Shockblanchedherblood.“Youdid…allthistome?Forrevenge?Howcould
you?”
Jackopeneddarkeyesswimminginshame.“ThewayIplannedthings…thatisn’tthe
wayitendeduphappening.”
ThepleadingonJack’sface,theseemingsincerity,toreather.Butshe’dbelievedhim
before.Andhe’dapparentlylied.
“Sureitis.”Brandonkeptdiggingupugliness.“Thevideofootageyouemailedmeof
youfuckingMorgancertainlydroveyourpointhome.Thanksforthat.Iclearlysawher
backagainstthedoor,hernailsinyourshoulders,whileshescreamedthatshe’dnever
haditbetter.Wellplanned.”
Brandon’ssarcasmrippedatthealreadyrawwoundsblisteringinsideher.Jackhad
madeavideoofthem?When?Herbackagainstthedoor,nailsinhisshoulders…Oh,
God.Thatfirsttimetheyhadsex,afterhe’dcaughthermasturbatinginthetub.Hadto
be.JackhadfilmedthatwithoutherknowledgeandsentittoBrandon?Andhe’d
arrangeditallinadvance.Unbelievable.
Herhappinesscurdled,froze.Hertrust…evaporatedinaninstant.Andhe’ddoneall
thatforpayback?Unforgivable.
Morganliftedatremblinghandtohermouth.Shewasgoingtobesick.Thiswaslike
anightmare,gut-wrenchinglyterrible,somethingshewishedshecouldjustwakeup
from.Butitwastoointenseandvividtoescape.BrandonandJackwereplayingoutsome
dramahere,withhersquarelyinthemiddle.
“Youemailedhimavideoofus…W—why?”
Jackhesitated,clearlytryingtogatherhiswords.Orhislies?Thequestionripped
throughMorgan.
“YouwanttotellheraboutKayla,orshouldI?”
“Brandon,shutup,”Jacksnarled.“SheknowsaboutKayla.”
Kayla?Whothehellwas…Oh,Jack’sex-wife.Morganhadneverheardthewoman’s
name,butthathadtobeit.Yes,sheknewaboutKayla,knewthatJackhadfoundhisbest
friendandhiswifehavingsexonvideo…
ThefullimplicationslammedintoMorgan,stealingherbreath,replacingitwithpain
sointense,shenearlydoubledover.
ShestaredatJackindawninghorror.“Brandon…hewasyourfriend.Hewastheone
inthevideohavingsexwithyourexwife.”
“Whileweweremarried,”Jacksnapped.“Hebetrayedyearsoffriendshipandtrust.”
AndithadallhurtJack’spride.
Morgantrembledwithdisbelief,withanger.Withpain.Dekeputanarmaroundher
tocomforther.Sheelbowedhiminthegut,clutchedthesheettoherchest,andglaredat
themall.
ThenshezeroedinonJack.“Youbetrayedmytrust,too.Thethingsyoupersuaded
metodo…”Herfaceflushedhotinremembrance.“Thewayyoumademequestion
everythingaboutmyself…Damnit,Ibelievedinyou.Inus.God,Iwasanidiot!You
musthavelaughedahundredtimes.”
“Ineverlaughed.Morgan…cher,Inevermeanttohurtyou.I—”
“Younevereventhoughtwhetheritwouldhurtherornot,”Brandonaccused.“You
didn’tcare.”
“That’snottrue.”Jackeasedtowardherandreachedouttoher.
MorganjerkedawayfromJackbeforehecouldtouchher.Angerandanguish
combinedonhisface,rolledthroughthetaut,leanmusclesripplingacrosshischestand
shoulders.
No,itwasanact.Allforrevenge.Shewouldn’tworryifheactuallyhurt.AsBrandon
said,Jackhardlycaredwhetherhe’dhurther.
“Swamp,yousonofabitch.There’syoursafeword.Don’ttouchmeagain.”
HerrebuffslashedpainacrossJack’sface,andheturnedonBrandon.
“You’renotexactlyMr.Cleanhere,”Jackgrowledatherbrother.“You’retheonewho
seducedKaylawhileIwasmarriedtoher,madeherbelieveyoulovedher—”
“Soyouseducedmeinreturn?”MorganshoutedatJack.“Pushedmetochangemy
perceptionofmyselfandmysexuality.Youmademebelieveyoulovedme,thatIloved
you,too.Isaidittoyouwhile…”Shegaspedastheawfultruthwashedthroughher
bloodinanicyrush.“Thatmusthavebeentheultimaterevenge,havingmetellyouthat
Ilovedyouduringsex,justlikeKaylasaidtoBrandon.Didyouknowitwouldworkout
thatperfectly,orjusthope?”
“Cher,itwasnothinglikethat.Iswear.Honest.I—”
“DearGod!DidyoudotoMorganwhatyoudidtoKayla?”Brandonbrokein,his
voiceboomingwithincredulity.“Didyoumesswithherheadandtrytoturnherinto
somesubmissiverobot?”
“Doessheseemlikearobottoyou?”
“Kaylacouldn’thandlewhatyouwantedfromawoman,andafteryou,shewasafraid
ofeveryman.Inosoonerhadher,thansheleftme.”Wearingafurious,incredulous
scowl,BrandongrabbedJackbythearm.“HaveyoudonethesamethingtoMorgan,you
bastard?”
“No!”Jackinsisted.“MorganiswiredforwhatIneedinawoman.Sheismywoman.
Iawakenedher,whichismorethanyoucansay.Igavehereverythingherbodyyearned
for,evenaménagewhenthethoughtofittwistedmygutsintwo,allbecauseIwanted
herhappiness.Whatdidyoudobesidesignorehersexuality,thenleaveherwhensome
sickstalkerfollowedher,masturbatedonherbed,thenshotatherinpublic?Yeah,that’s
loveforyou.”
“Heshotatyou,sweetheart?”ConcerntransformedBrandon’sangryface.He
droppedhisguntohisside.
“Putthataway,”shewhispered,noddingtowardthefirearm.
Withareluctantsigh,onethatcommunicatedjusthowpissedhewas,Brandon
tuckedhisguninthewaistbandofhisslacksatthesmallofhisbackandturnedtoher.
Whenhetriedtocuphishandaroundhershoulder,Jacksnarled,“Don’ttouchher!”
ThenhejumpedinandhitBrandonwitharightcrosstothechin.Brandon’shead
snappedback,andhecameuprubbinghischinwithonehandandformingafistwith
theother.
JackblockedBrandon’sincomingpunch.“IletyoutakeKaylafromme.Ididn’tlove
her,andweallknewit.Butyou’llhavetokillmebeforeIletyoutakeMorganfromme.I
loveher.I’llalwaysloveher.”Jackturnedtoherthen,hispenitentfrownripewithaplea.
“Ifyou’llletmeexplainandapologize.Youcan’tmarryhim.”
“She’snotmarryinganyofyou!”screechedahalf-wildvoicefromtheopendoorway.
BrandonturnedandJackleanedaroundherbrotherforalookattheirnewvisitor,but
Morgandidn’thavetoseetoknowwho’djustarrived.Sheknewthatvoice.
“Andrew?Whatareyoudoinghere?”Sheleanedintohislineofvision,stillclutching
thesheetoverherbarebody.
Herbloodturnedtoicewhenshesawmenacemutatinghisculturedfaceintoasnarl
andthethreatinhisstanceasheblockedthedoor.Furyvibratedoffhim,zingingaround
theroomlikeitsownlethalforce.AdrenalineandangercrashedthroughAndrew,
judgingfromthewayhetwitchedasheheldaguninhishands—agunhepointedright
ather.
Morgangasped,hermindracingtocomprehendthisturnofevents.
“Someonehastostopyou.”Andrewstaredatherasifhebarelyknewher,takingin
DekeandJack,bothshirtlessanddisheveledafewfeetaway…anddrawingsome
accurateconclusions.“Youfuckedtwomen?Iknewyouwereawhore,butthisiseven
beyondwhatIbelievedyoucapableof.Ican’tbelieveInearlymarriedyou.Youdating
SenatorRoss’ssoninfuriatedmeenough.”Andrewtossedhisunusuallyunkemptsalt-
and-pepperhairashenoddedatBrandon.“Youvisitedhim,agreedtomarryhim.You
sleptwithhim.Andnowyou’vetakenupwithyetanotherman.Yourbodyguard,right?
Didyouaskhimtodominateyou,too?”
Andrew’ssneerhungintheair,itshostilitystingingherlikeaharshslaptotheface.
Sherefusedtobeembarrassedbyhiswords.Butthegunpointedather,makingher
heartpound,scaredthehelloutofher.
“Yes.”
Jackglancedinherdirection,thenstaredatDeke,somesilentcommunication
betweenthemthatshecouldn’tunderstand.
Andrewshookhishead.“Andnowamorningspentcheatingonyourfiancéand
sandwichedbetweenthesetwotestosterone-oozinglugs.Forwhat?Afeworgasms?You
andIkneweachother’smindsandsharedthejoyofqualitywork,elevatingtawdrysexto
art,untilyouthrewitaway.”
BrandonleapttowardAndrew,reachingouttoswipethegunfromhisjitterygrasp.
Andrewroaredandscrambledaway,firingtwoshotsinBrandon’sdirection.Morgan
heardherselfscreamastheretortoffiredeafenedher.Herbrotherthrewhimselftothe
groundandrolledawayfromthebullets.
Breathheld,MorganlaunchedherselffromthebedtocheckonBrandon.
“Backinthebed!”Andrewroared,turningthegunonheragain.“Now!”
Easingbackunderthesheets,shecoveredhernudityagain,shaking.Herhammering
heartbeatnearlydeafenedher.Andrewwasserious.Deadlyserious.AndBrandon…Oh,
God,hadhebeenshot?
Slowly,JackbenttohelpBrandonup.Andrew’sgriptightenedonthegun,hismouth
compressingintoagrimwhiteline.
Onceonhisfeet,herbrotherturnedtosendherareassuringglance.“I’mfine.Just
dowhathesays,Morgan.”
“Andnobodyelsedoanythingstupidorheroic,”Andrewsnarled,tossinghisarms
aroundwildly,stillclutchingthechilling,shinyweapon.
Morganforcedherselftotakeadeepbreath,triedtopushcalmthroughherbody.She
knewAndrew.Hystericsonherpartwouldonlyuphisdramatics.Andhewasanopera
fan,aperformingartwhereallthecentralcharactersfrequentlydiedandtheaudience
applaudedthetragedyofitall.
PleaseGod,nosuchtragedyforher.Shehadtosaveherself,andstopBrandon,Jack,
andDekefromdoingsomethingheroicallyfatal.
Morgansuckedinabreathandloweredhervoice,tryingtosoundmuchcalmerthan
shewas.“Whyareyouhere?Mylifeisnolongeryourconcern,Andrew.”
“Youignoredmynotesandphotos.YouranwhenIleftmysemenonyourbedasa
reminderoftheplacewhereweonceconnected.Itriedtomakeyouunderstandwhere
youbelongedandtowhomyoubelonged.IcouldhaveforgivenyouforMr.Rossintime.
YouandIargued,andyoumighthavethoughtIdidn’tintendtoreturnforyou.But
thesetwo…”Hewavedashakingfistagain,thistimeatJackandDeke,gunclenched
tightinhisgrip.“Ishouldhaveshotyouatthatstripclub.Iwouldhaveifthenastyden
ofiniquityhadn’tbeensocrowded.”
Andrew’swordsstaggeredher,makinghermindracewithimplications.“SoReggie
didn’t…wasn’t…?”
Andrewrolledhiseyesandsighedwithimpatience.“Pursuingyou?”
“Thisisstalking,asshole,”Dekegrowled.
Withashakeofherhead,Morgantriedtoshushhim.
Thankfully,Andrewignoredhim.“Reggie?Ofcoursenot.Didn’tyouseemeatthe
stripclub?Ilookedrightatyou?Youalmostfooledmewiththedisguise,butI’dknow
youreyesanywhere.”
“Icouldn’tseethroughthecrowdedstripclub,”shemurmured.“Itwasyou?Given
thepicturesIreceived,Ithought—”
Herex-fiancérolledhiseyes.“Please.Hetaughtmetotakepicturesanddevelop
them.HehadnoideaItookpicturesofyouuntiljusttheotherday.”
Andrewsniffed,andMorganknewhewasinsultedthatshe’dbelievedevenfora
momentthatReggiecouldstalkherasproperlyashehad.
“Hedidn’thelpyouatall?”Keephimtalking,distracthim.Staycalm.Findsomeway
outofthisdamndangerousmess.
“He’stoostupid.Foratime,hehelpedmekeeptrackofyou,intheinterestof
flatteringandprotectingyou.Andoncehefigureditout,well,thestupidlugwentto
warnyou,buthecouldn’tfindyou.”Andrewshookhishead,contempttwistinghisface.
“Heupsetthatstripperwhorelastnightandgothimselfarrestedbeforehecouldwarn
youIwasintown.”
“You?You’vebeenmystalkerallalong?”
Jackgrimacedather,thensentanotherglancetoDeke.Outofthecornerofhereye,
shesawDekenod.Shetensed.
Theyweregoingtodosomethingstupidandheroic—andgetthemselveskilled.
“No,”Morganwhisperedatthem.
“Iamyoursavior!”Andrewshoutedoverher,thenstiffened,hisfacedarkeningtoa
thunderousscowl.“Someonehastosaveyoufromyourself.Whenwefirstdated,you
seemedsosweetlyinnocent.Ioverlookedyourimpuritybecauseyouwereovertwenty-
one,andwehadn’tknowneachotherpreviously.
“Afterwearguedaboutyourcrudebedroomideas,IeventuallyrealizedthatImight
nothavegivenyouenoughattention,andIstartedpursuingyouagain,despiteyour
involvementwithMr.Ross.Idecidedtoflatteryou,andbelievedIcouldsaveyouby
marryingyou.But…”Heclickedthehammerbackonthegunandgaveadisdainfultoss
ofhisheadtowardJack.“AssoonasyoumetMr.Cole,youbeganactinglikeabitchin
thethroesofheat.He’sawell-knowndominant,andyouallbutlickedhimupwithyour
gaze.”
Morgandrewinadeepbreath,resolvingtostaycalm—despitethefactthatsheboth
itchedtostranglethebastardandrunscreamingfromhisgun.Sheignoredhertemper
andhersweatingpalms.
“IwantedJack.Heunderstoodmyneedtosubmit,Andrew.Hetaughtmethere’s
nothingwrongwiththat.”Whateverotherdeceptionslaybetweenthem,she’dalways
hadthatgiftfromJack.“YourfailuretoacceptmeasIamonlyproveswe’reill-suited.Go
givesomeotherwomanyourattention.Maybeshe’llappreciatetheobsessivebit.Idon’t.
Getthehelloutofmylife.”
“You’reonlyprovingwhatIfeared.Theonlywaytopurgeyouofyourwickednessis
tokillyou.”
Morganfroze.Andrewraisedthegun.Andrew—herformerproducer,herformer
fiancé,themild-manneredartsytypewasn’tjusthypeduponmomentaryanger.He
seriouslyplannedtokillher.
“Now!”Jackshoutedinthetense,churningair.
Dekegrabbedher,yankinghertothefloorinatangleofarmsandlegs.Outofthe
cornerofhereye,shesawJackgrabthegunatthesmallofBrandon’sback,thenpush
herbrotherintothecornerbehindAndrew,outofharm’sway.Thenshesawnothing,as
Dekerippedherfromthecocoonofthesheetsandbegantorollherunderthebed.
Anexplosionthunderedthroughtheroom.Amomentlater,somethingstruckherin
thechest,whooshingthebreathfromherbodywiththeforceoftheimpact.Thesting
searedfireacrossherskin.Inaninstant,herbodynearlyimplodedwithpain.Shecried
out.Butasecondblastmaskedthesound.
Shegaspedforbreath,astrangeweightless,nearlyfloatingfeelingassailingher.
Acry,athud,then…
“Morgan!”sheheardsomeoneshoutasiffromadistance.
Jack.ItwasJack’svoice.Hesoundedworried.
“Here…”shewhispered,frowningagainstthepain.Whatwaswrongwithher?
“Shit!”Dekerumbledbehindher.“She’shit!”
Shewas?Morgan’seyesflutteredopenintimetoseeDekeputhisshirtoverherchest
andpressdown.Painful,damnit!
“No…”shewailed.
“Where?”Jackdemanded.
“Hell,Idon’tknow.Herchest,Ithink.There’sbloodeverywhere,frontandback.
Shit,she’sbleedingfast.Call911!”
CHAPTEREIGHTEEN
Jackdroppedtohisknees,watchingMorgan’sfacepaleintosomethingdamnnear
ghostly.TheredofherbloodgushedthroughDeke’sgrayT-shirt,turningitmorbidly
dark.Thecopperysmellofbloodburnedintohisnostrils,explodinginhisbrain.
Sonofabitch,hewishedhecouldkillthatassholeAndrewalloveragain!Formaking
herdoubthersexuality,foreventhinkingofhurtingMorgan.Andthistime,he’denjoy
puttingabulletbetweenthebastard’seyes.
Butnow,therewasn’ttimeforanythingbesidessavingMorgan’slife.
Yankingthesheetoffthebed,hewrappeditaroundherwound,applyingpressure
withonehandandreachingforthephonewiththeother.The911callonlytookafew
moments,andthedispatcherpromisedtohavesomeonetherewithinminutes.
JackonlyhopedMorganhungonthatlong.
Now,allhecoulddowaswait…anddoalittledamagecontrol.
CastingadesperategazeupatDeke,Jackwasshockedtoseehisowngrimconcern
mirroredthere.Morganhadevenlefthermarkonhishard-ass,tough-as-nailsbusiness
partner.
“TakeBrandonandgetoutofhere.”
“I’mnotleavingher,”Brandonsaid,nowhoveringabovehim,concerntighteninghis
mouth.
“Youstay,andthepresswillhaveafieldday,”Jacksnarled.“Fourmen,oneofthem
dead,twoguns,andonenakedwomanallinthesamehotelroom.They’llstartasking
questionsthatthesonofamanrunningforpresidentshouldn’thaveraised.Youleave,
andIcanplaythislikeabodyguardjustdoinghisjob.I’mfriendswiththelocals.Itwillfly.”
Brandonhesitated.Jackcouldtellhisformerfriendwastorn,andhedidn’tgivea
shit.HefocusedallhiseffortonstemmingtheflowofMorgan’sblood.
Butnothinghelped.Thebloodjustkeptrunning,flowing…
“Hangon,cher.Staywithme.Youcan’tgiveup,notnow.Jet’aime,moncoeur.”
“Youloveher?”Brandon’svoicesoundedthin,unsteady.Heseemedshaken.“It’snot
bullshit.Youreallyloveher?”
Jackdidn’thavetimetosparehimaglance.“Yes,Iloveher,andI’msureyou’llfind
somewaytouseittocutmeoffattheballs.Rightnow,Ineedyoutogetthefuckoutof
here.”
“Butshe’s—”
“Ifthisturnsintoamediacircusbecauseofyouandshedies,I’llmakesuretheyhave
topickupyourremainswithtweezers!”
Brandonfellsilentforamoment,thennodded.
“Wait,”Jackcalled.“Thegun.You’renotregisteredtocarryinLouisiana,areyou?”
AndJackhadjustkilledamanusingthatweapon.
Theelegantsenator’ssonflinched.“Oh,God.”
“Ninemillimeter?”Dekeasked.
“Yes.”Brandon’svoiceshook.
“Jack?”askedDeke.
“Inmydufflebag.Switchoutthebullets.Firearoundintothegrassoutsidethe
Frenchdoorsorsomething.It’sthebestwecando,incasetheyrunforensics.”
“Thosegoodol’Cajunboysaren’tgoingtolooktooclosely.It’llwork.”
Sirenssoundedinthedistance.DekesworeandpouredthebulletsfromBrandon’s
gun,switchingthemoutwiththoseinJack’sown.HethrustopentheFrenchdoorsatthe
sideandquicklyfiredaroundintothegrass.
Jackflinched,heartpoundingatthesound,theonethatslammedhomethefacthe
mightlosetheonlywomanhe’deverloved.Thewomanhewantedtokeepfortherestof
hislife.
Thewomanwhowasn’this.
“I’llcallAlyssa.We’llfindaplacetohideBrandon.Touchbasewhenyoucan,”a
shirtlessDekesaid,herdingBrandonoutthedoor.
Jacknodded,stillapplyingpressure,afraidtoliftthesheet,afraidtofindoutthe
bloodwasstillflowing,afraidthebullethadhitsomeorganandwasslowlykillingher.
Damnit,he’dflunkedfuckingEMTtraining.
“Hangontoher,man.”
Jackglancedup.Dekestoodsolidlyonhisside,asalways.Nowordsnecessary.No
questionsasked.
“Thanks,”hecroaked.
Nowheonlyhopedthathecouldkeepheralivesohecouldfightforher.
#
Fourlonghourslater,fullofquestionsandredtape,andhisgutsshreddingunder
thesharpbladeofdread,nightwasfalling.Jackreachedthehospital.Hehadbloodall
overhim—andhedidn’tgiveadamn.Thepolicehadjustfinishedwithalltheirlong,
annoyingquestionsaboutAndrew’sdeath.Throughitall,hecouldonlywonder,witha
macheteoffearstabbinghimoverandover,aboutMorgan’scondition.
Afterbarkinganinquiryatthenurse’sstation,hesprintedtoMorgan’sroom.
Heartpounding,hecametoadeadstopinthedoorway.“MonDieu.”
Wearingapalebluehospitalgown,shelookedsostillandlifelessandevenpalerthan
thewhite-whiteofherpillow.Evenhersexycinnamonfreckleshadfadedtonear
nothing.TheIVpumpedfluidintoherbodythroughatubestucktothebackofher
hand.Abandagebulkedupherrightshoulderand,fromthebulgeinhergown,
extendeddowntoherribcage.
Ifshedied,itwasgoingtobeallhisfuckingfault.Ifhe’dneverstartedthisstupidbid
forrevenge,ifhe’djustprotectedher,insteadofscrewingwithherbody,hermind…her
heart,Morganwouldn’tnowbefightingforherlife.
“What’sthenews?”hesnappedatDeke,handsshakingasheenteredtheroom.
Brandonstoodsulkingnearby,armsoverhischest,proppedagainstawall.Helooked
likeamanwithalotofheavyshitonhismind.Jackrelated.
Hesankintoanuncomfortablechairthecolorofbabypukeandcouldn’thelpbut
wonder,howonearththeyhadendedupwrestlingoverthesamewomanagain?And
whyeverytimetheydid,theresultswerealwayssodisastrous.
“It’sgood.Theybroughtherbackfromsurgeryabouttwentyminutesagoandsaid
she’sgoingtobefine.”
Fine.Shewasgoingtobefine.That’sallthatmattered.
“MerciDieu.”Heletoutaraggedbreath.
Dekespokeup.“It’safleshwound.Bulletenteredandexitedcleanly,justbelowher
collarbone.They’vestoppedthebleeding.Theycameandaskedifanyfriendsorfamily
areABpositiveandcouldgiveherblood.”Heshruggedanapology.“I’mBnegative,
man.Rare,butthewrongtypeofrare.Sorry.Ineedacupofcoffee.Wantone?”
Jackshookhishead.
Shit,hecouldn’tevenhelpMorganinthis.Hehatedfeelingsodamnhelpless.“I’mA
positive.”
AsDekelefttheroom,Brandonshuckedhisjacketandrolleduphisshirtsleeve.“I’m
ABpositive.IjusttoldthemI’llgive.They’recomingtogetmeinafewminutes.”
AhugestrokeofluckthatBrandonhadMorgan’srarebloodtype.Jackchokedona
millionrepliesthatsprangtohistongue.Hesettledontheonlyonethatwoulddofor
now.“Thankyou.”
“IcareaboutMorgan,too.It’snothing.”
ItwaseverythingtoJack.BrandondonatingmeantJackhadashotatafuture,evenif
Morganneverspoketohimagain.Justknowingshewasaliveandwellwouldsustain
him.
Infact,Morgan’sinjuryhadmadehimrealizeathingortwo.Namely,thatthis
vendettahe’dcarriedhadbothnearlymadehimandnearlydestroyedhim.Ithadtoend.
Itwastimetoensurethissortofshitneverhappenedagain.TimegiveBrandonbackhis
life.
Andtofreehimself.
Stumblingtohisfeet,Jackreachedhisinsidecoatpocketandwithdrewavideotape.
Inanoldpackagewithatatteredwhitecardboardcover,ithungheavyinhishand.
“Here.”HehelditouttoBrandon.
“Whatisthis?”Brandonraisedpuzzledblueeyestohim.
“Youknowdamnwellwhatitis.Ihadthisoneinmyoffice,whichisrightaroundthe
corner.I’vegotthespareinasafedepositbox.I’llgetitbacktoyounextweek.It’stimeIgavethemtoyou.”
RecognitiondawnedacrossBrandon’sface.“ThevideowithKayla?Nomore
threateningtoblackmailmeifIrunforoffice?”
“Nomore,”Jackansweredtightly,thenturnedtosit.
“Seriously?”BrandongrabbedthearmofJack’scoat.“Why?Whynow?”
Jackfacedhisnemesis,hisoldfriend,again.“FallingforMorganprovedtomereal
quickthatself-controlisjustahighmindedideal.YoulovedKayla,andwhenmypride
wouldn’tlethergo,despiteheraskingforadivorce,youclaimedhertheonlywayyou
could.Inyourshoes…Imighthavedonethesame.”“Ilovedher.Shebrokemyfucking
heart.”Brandon’smonotonereplyrevealedthathe’dneverrecoveredfromKayla.Forthe
firsttimeinhislife,Jackcouldunderstandthathitby-a-Mack-truckfeeling.
“I’mgoingtoloseMorganoverthisrevenge,”Jackmuttered,rakingtensehands
throughhishair,“OversomethingIshouldhaveletgoofyearsago.Andifsheridesoff
intothesunsettomarryyou,Idon’twanthertohaveanyotherreasontohateme.Just…
takecareofher.”
Brandonrubbedatanapparentpainbetweenhiseyebrowsandsmiledwithbitter
irony.“Iwill,butI’mnotgoingtomarryher.Jack,she’snotmyfiancée,andI’venever
touchedherinmylife.She’smyhalf-sister.”
IfBrandonhadsaidhewasreallyatwo-headedrhinoindisguise,Jackcouldn’thave
beenanymorestunned.“Sister?”Withatightnod,Brandonbegan,“Thiscan’tleavethe
room.You’vealwaysbeenamanofyourword…evenwhenIhaven’tbeen.”
“Yoursecretissafe.”
“Thanks.”Brandonsighed,stoodandpaced.“Myfatherimpregnatedhermother
whensheworkedforhimasabarely-legalintern.Hepaidherhandsomelytogoaway
andnevermentionhisnametoanyone,noteventoMorgan.
“Aboutthreeyearsago,whenmyfatherfirststartedtalkingaboutabidfortheWhite
House,hehiredaconsultant,whotoldhimtodigouteveryskeletoninhisclosetand
buryitevendeeper.MyfathercamecleantomeaboutMorgan.Ilookedheruponhis
orders,withtheintenttopayheroff.ButIlikedhertoomuchtogiveupbeingher
brother.Wekeptintouch,saweachother.Iwastherewhenshetapedherfirstshow.”
AsmileliftedthecornersofBrandon’smouthforamoment,beforeheturned
pensiveagain.“Whenthisbusinesswiththestalkerstarted,Itriedtohelpher.But
protectingherfromHoustonbecameimpossible,andwhentheassholemasturbatedon
herbed,Itoldhertocomestaywithme.Wefloatedthestorythatshewasmyfiancéeas
acover,sinceIcouldn’ttellanyonethetruth.”
AndJackhadbelievedthelie,believedMorganwashisfiancée,thenpursuedherall
thewaytosubmissionbecauseofit.
Lifewasgoingtohurtlikehellwithouther,buthecouldn’tbesorryhe’dhadherfor
abrieftime.Sheclearlywasn’tgoingtomarryBrandon…buthealsodoubtedshe’d
speaktohimagain.
“BethavingMorganwithyoupissedyourfatheroff.”
“Youhavenoidea.”Brandon’sbittersmilespokevolumes.“Anyway,Iwasterrified
whenIgotorderstogotoIraqforathree-weekassignment.Iknewshewasaloneand
vulnerable.Itevencrossedmymindtocallyou,sinceyou’rethebestdamnbodyguardin
thebusiness.”Hesighed.“ButIcouldn’tgiveyouthatsortofpoweroverme.Itnever
occurredtomethatyouwerewaitingformetogetengagedtogetyourrevenge.”
“Forthreeyears,yes.Iwasn’tgoingtogiveup.”
“Idon’tblameyou,”Brandonadmittedquietly.“I’mjustgladthatIonlygotasfaras
adebriefinginD.C.beforethetripwaspostponed.Ihopewe’resettledonceandforall.”
“Weare.”Jacksighed.“Thanksforthetruth.”
Silencedescended.JackstaredatMorganhard—asifhecouldwillherawake.
Shenevermovedamuscle.
“Isshebeingsedated?”
“I’massumingso.Shewasawakeabouttenminutesago,butnow…”
TensionandhopegrippedJack’sgut.“Didshesayanything?”
“No.Shejustlookedaround,sawDekeandme,andshuthereyesagain.”
Shehadn’taskedforhim.Andwhyshouldshe?Stupidtohopeshewould.Fromher
pointofview,he’dlied,usedher,exploitedher.Whyshouldshebelievethatheloved
her?Andifshe’deverthoughtshelovedhim…well,hisstunningconversationwith
Brandonearliertodaywouldhavecuredherofthat.
LosingMorganwasn’tanythinglessthanhedeserved.Butthefierceurgetostaveoff
therealityfueledafuriousdenial.Knowinghe’dnevertouchheragainwaslikeasharp
gougeofpainknifinghimrightbetweentheribs.
“That’sforthebest,Iguess.Shewon’tfeelanypain.”
“True.”
Andshewouldn’twakeuprightnow.Evenifshedid,wouldshereallywanthim
there?
No.She’dneverwanthimnearheragain.
Jackshuffledhisbootagainsttheantisepticallycleanfloor,hischestcrushinglytight.
“Ishouldgo.Tellher…”
What?Whatthehellcouldhesaytomakethisanybetter?Itwouldtakeafucking
miracletochangehermind,andJackdidn’tthinkhehadanysuchmiraclecomingto
him.
Intheend,hesettledonthesimplest.“TellherI’msorry.”
Shovingclenchedfistsintohisstiffjeans,Jackforcedhimselftoturnawayfrom
Morganandwalkoutofherlife.
CHAPTERNINETEEN
MorganpacedacrossthehardwoodfloorofBrandon’slivingroom.Thesurfacefelt
coolbeneathherbarefeet,butdidn’tsoothehersearingthoughts.
“You’regoingtowearoutthefloor,littlesister.”SheflippedagazeatBrandonover
hershoulder.
“Doubtful.”
“Okay,thenyou’regoingtowearyourselfout.It’sbarelybeenaweeksinceyouwere
shot.”
“I’vegottomovearoundorI’mgoingtogetstiff.”Hesatbackonthesofa,legs
spread,elbowsproppedacrosstheback.“Imightbuythatifitlookedlikemereexercise.
Thisisnervouspacing.What’seatingatyou?”
Morgandidn’tanswer.Admittingthetruthwastoopainful,madeherlooktoostupid.
“Nothing,”shefinallymurmured.
Brandonrosetohisfeet,untilhetoweredoverher.He’ddefinitelygottenthetall
genesinthefamily,damnhim.ShewasamidgetbyHollywood’sstandards.
Hegrabbedhershouldersandturnedhertofacehim,effectivelyendingheragitated
waltzacrossthefloor.“I’veseenyouobsessaboutTurnMeOninthepast.Whatyou’re
thinkingabouttodayhasnothingtodowiththat,though,doesit?Reggiehasapologized
forsellingyouout.Andrew’sfuneralwasconductedwithaminimumofhype,andthe
presshasnoideawhereyouare.Alreadythegossipisdyingdown.You’rehealing
nicely.”Hisgentlestareprobed.“Icanonlythinkofonethingthatwouldmakeyouthis
crazyrightnow.OrshouldIsayoneperson?”
“Idon’twanttotalkaboutit.”
“Youhaven’twantedtotalkaboutJacksinceyouleftthehospital.”
Morganclosedhereyes.“Don’tsayhisname.”“You’rebeingstubborn,littlesister.”
“I’mbeingstubborn?”Shepokedherselfinthechestwithanangryfinger.“Excuse
me,butIdidn’tstartthisshit.Hedid.ButnowI’msupposedtolivewithit.”
“Livewithwhat,exactly?”Brandoncrossedhisarmsoverhischest.“Heshotand
killedamanwhowouldhaveendedyourlifewithoutblinking.”
That’sit?That’sallheacknowledged?“Yes,hesavedme,andI’mgrateful.Butdid
youforgetthelittlepartwhereheliedtomeandtookmetobedtogetbackatyou?He
sentyouafilmclipof—”Shegnashedherteeth.“Istillcan’tbelievethat.He…”Howthe
hellcouldsheputthebetrayalintowords?“HeactedlikeImeantsomething.Noneof
thatactwastrue.”
“Ithinkitwas.”
Morganfeltherjawdrop.“Whyareyoutakingupforhim?”
Brandonshotheraself-deprecatingsmile.“Weusedtobefriends,untilIfuckedit
up.Jackwasn’tgoingtodivorceKaylawithoutagoodreason.Despitehis…lifestyle,he
wastooCatholic.IpushedKayla.Andpushedandpushed.God,Iwantedthatwoman.
TheonethingIneverdidwaslevelwithJackandjusttellhimIwasinlovewithhiswife.
Andthatshewasinlovewithme.Ijusttookher,andIdidn’tcarehowwretchedhefelt
becauseholdinghermademefeelbetter.Ithinkhewasjustrepayingthefavor,little
sister,lettingmeseehowitfelttobeonthereceivingend.Ifyoushouldbepissedat
anyone,it’sme.”
“Doyouhaveanyideawhathedidtome?Atall?”“Ihatetosaythis,butwhenI
bargedintothathotelroom,youdidn’tlooklikeyouweresufferingtoomuch.”
Morganflushedtwentyshadesofred,shewassure,frombothfuryand
embarrassment.“Itwasn’tthewayhetouchedme.”
Though,attimes,thathadbeenhardtotake,toaccepthowmuchshelovedit.“Itwas
thewayhepretendedtocare.”
Asuddenknockonthedoorsentthembothturning.
Brandoncursedunderhisbreath,thenmovedtoopenit.“God,Ihopeit’snotthe
press,”shemuttered.“Vultures.”Brandoncrackedthedooropen,onlyasfarasthe
securitychainallowed.“What?”
Noresponse.ThedoorblockedMorgan’sview,andshecouldonlyseeBrandonraise
hishandtotakesomethingfromthevisitor’sgrasp.Thenhebreathedwhatlookedlikea
sighofrelief.Shelookeddownattheiteminhishand.Avideotape.Theothervideotape
JackhadpromisedtobringBrandon?
“IsthiswhatIthinkitis?”
Thepersonontheothersidemusthavenodded.Whowasit?Coulditbe…No.
“Thanks.Doyouwanttocomein?”
Morgan’sheartstartedtopound.Oh,God.Maybe…WasitJack?WouldJackcome
here,afteraweekoftotal,devastatingsilence?Despitehisbetrayal,sheachedforhim.
Herheartwasahollow,gapingwoundinherchest.Shestrainedtohearthesoundofhis
voicelateatnightwhenshelayinbed,unabletosleep.And
herbodynearlyvibratedatjustthethoughtofhim.Shethrobbed.
Overlysensitiveandtightinallthewrongplaceswiththemereremembranceof
him…
God,whatifhewalkedthroughthatdoornow?Brandondrewthedoorbacktoadmit
thestranger,butitwasn’tJackwhofilledthedoorway.
“Deke…”Disappointmentstabbedherwithoutmercy.“Hi,doll.Don’tlooktoo
excitedtoseeme.”
“Iam.I’msorry.”Shedidherbesttopasteonasmile.“Howyoudoing?”
Shetriedtoshrug,thengrimaced.Damn,wouldthatshouldereverstophurting?
Yeah,andprobablylongbeforeherheartdid.
“I’mrecovering,”shesaid.“Howareyou?”
“Readytogetamiserablecoonassoffmyback.Wanttohelpme?”
“WithJack?Idoubtthere’sanythingIcando.He’smademyroleinhislifeperfectly
clear.”
“See,Idon’tthinkhehas.Sinceyouleft,hesnarlsandgrowlsandgetsdrunk,then
sleepsitoffandstartsoverthenextday.Heknowsyou’repissed.Itoldhimhe’stoo
chickenshittoseeyou.Hetoldme—”
“Icanimaginewhathesaid.”Morgangrimaced.“It’snotpretty.Heneedsyou.”
“Heneedsabeating,”sheshotback.
“Ifyouweredishingitout,hewouldtakeit,doll.Atleastthen,you’dbetalkingto
him.”
Morgandidn’tknowwhattosay.PartofherwantedtobeatthehelloutofJack.He’d
madepeacewithBrandonatthehospital…thenleftherwithoutasinglewordwhile
believingthatshewasunconscious.She’dbeengroggyandfartoooverwroughtto
respond—butshe’dbeenawakeenoughtohearJack’severyword.
Thatkindofcrapdidn’tputhiminthe“niceguy”category.
Bastard.
“ForgivemeifIdon’tgiveashitthathe’sannoyingyouandgivinghimselfadaily
hangover.It’stheveryleasthedeserves,Deke.Ipaidforhisrevengewithmyheartanda
pieceofmysoul.”“Forwhatit’sworth,sodidhe.”
Deke’swordswerelikeapunchtothegut,likepokingastickatawildanimal
“Bullshit.”
“Helovesyou.Hejusthasnoideahowtowinyoubackanddoesn’tthinkhedeserves
thechancetotry.”
“Atleastweagreeonsomething,”shesnapped.Butinherheart,hopesurged.Wasit
possiblethathestayedaway,notoutofdisregardbutguilt?
“Justtalktohim,doll.You’dbedoingmeandGrandpaBriceafavor.”
Morganhesitated,sodamntempted.“WhyshouldIwanttodoafavorfortheold
manwhobroughtmenearlynonexistentlingerieinanunderhandedattempttothrow
meJack’sway?”“Becausehethinksyou’reperfectforhisgrandson.Wealldo.EvenJack.
Pleassseee,”Dekewheedled.“Talktohim.Justonce.”
“Grownmenbegging.”Sherolledhereyes.
Butshefearedshewasn’tfoolinganyone.ThehungertoseeJackgnawedather
composure,herrestraint.Yetthefearofgettingsuckedintohischarismaagain,ofbeing
dupedbyherownwant,ofstupidlyclingingtohimandgivinghimthepowertohurther
again,keptheraway.
Dekeshrugged.“Whateverworks.”
“Ifhewantedtoseemethatbad,heknowswheretofindme.”
“He’sgottheCatholicguiltthingdownpat,Morgan.Heknowshefuckedup,and
he’snotgoingtopushhisloveonyou.”“Hedoesn’tloveme!”sheshouted.
“Hedoes,”Brandoncutin.“Hetoldmehimself,intwolanguages.I’veneverseen
Jackcaretoomuchaboutanyonepersoninhislife.IhadnodoubtwhenIlookedatthe
manthathelovesyou.”
Morgansuckedinasharpbreath.WasitpossibleshemeantmoretoJackthanjusta
revengefuck?Hadshecometomeanmorethanthemeanstofuelingavendetta?
“Icanseeyourthoughtsalloveryourface,doll.Granted,spendingonemorning
insideyoudoesn’tmakemeanexpert,but—”
“Idon’tneedtohearthis.”Brandongrimaced.“I’mprettysureIknowwhereyour
headisat,”Dekewenton.“Youaren’tgoingtogetanswersbyhidinghere.”
Shementallyrecoiled.First,thesonofabitchhadtoremindheraboutthatawful,
wonderfulmorningshe’dspentsqueezedbetweenthetwoofthemasthey’dgivenher
theultimatepleasure.Herultimatefantasy,despiteJack’sreservations.Thenhetellsher
thatshe’sbeingacoward.Lovely.
ShecouldfeelBrandon’sreprovinggazeonher,too,andmadeamentalnotetobeat
Deke’sasslater.
Shakingherheadtoclearit,Morganforcedherselftofocus.EvenifJackhadputhis
fearsaside,somuchelsehadhappened.
Aprotestleapedtothetipofhertongue.Noway,nohow,wasshegoingtotalkto
Jack.
But…damnDeke,hewasright.NoonehadtheanswersshewantedexceptJack.
“Talktohim,”Deke’squietcommandwentstraighttohercommonsenseandmade
mushoutofit.“Comewithme.”Herthoughtsweresotangled,sojumbled.Butone
realitystoodoutforher:Jackwasthestrong,shrewd,sexualmanherbodyandmindhad
beensearchingforallherlife.Shecouldeitherstayhereandhideandalwayswonder
whatcouldhavebeen.Orshecouldgotalktothemanandfindoutwherehisavowals
of“love”registeredonherbullshitmeter.
“Fine.ButnopromisesthatI’llbenice.”
“Noneexpected.”Dekegrinned,thoseindigoeyessparklingwithmischief.
“Givemetenminutestogetmyselftogether.”
Dekegrinned.“JackwasnursingabottleofTennesseewhiskeywhenIleft.Better
makeitfive.”
#
ClimbingintoDeke’senormousHummerforthelongrideouttoJack’sswamp
cottageinLouisiana,Morganreflectedthat,ifshedidn’tknowbetter,she’dassumeDeke
hadchosensuchavehicletocompensateforadeficitinmasculineproportions.Butshe
didknow…
BecauseofJack.Becausehe’dgrantedherthatfantasy.Itseemedsillytoturnthe
eventsofthelasttwoweeksoverandoverinhermind.She’ddoneitamilliontimes.
Jackhadreeledherin,dupedherbytantalizingherwiththelureoffantasiesshe’d
alwayswantedfulfilled.He’ddelivered.Nodisputingthat.Butforher,ithadgone
beyondpleasure.Waybeyond.
Whenshe’dbeenwithJack,Morganhadbelievedheartandsoulthatitmeant
somethingtohim.Theknowledgethathe’ddoneitallforrevengecrushedheruntilshe
feltbroken,unabletosleep,eat…breathe.Wonderinghowthehellshewassupposedto
goonwiththispain.
“You’rethinkingtoohard.Icanalmostfeeltheheadacheyou’regivingyourself.”
Sheleveledareprovingstareathim.“Asopposedtoyoumen,whothinkof
absolutelynothingbutyourlittlevendettasandyourdicks?”
Tohiscredit,hedidn’twince.“Yes,IknewaboutJack’splan.ButIthinkitstopped
beingaboutrevengeforhimveryquickly.”
“Don’tmakehiscaseforhim.Idon’twanttohearit.”Deke’swordsonlyconfused
her,madeherhope.ShewasgoingtoseeJackforanswers.Period.Ifshedidn’tgetthe
answersshewanted,she’dgoonwithlife—alone.Somehow.NotthatsheexpectedJack
tobeabletoconvinceherofhisundyinglove.
Honestly,howcouldsuchabondforminmeredays,wheneverythingaroundthem
hadbeenalldangerandlies?Impossible,right?
Sological…exceptforthefactshe’dfallentotallyforJackduringtheirtimetogether.
Andunlikeanythingshe’dfeltforanymanpreviouslyinherlife,thisfeltstrong,
unbreakable.
Permanent.
Damn.
DekeblewthroughayellowlightontheoutskirtsofHouston,thenpulledintothe
parkinglotofanextended-stayhotelbuiltlikelittlecondoswithfreshpaintandfreshly
plantedflowers.“Youneedtopickupyourgearbeforeheadingout?”sheasked
“Notexactly.”
Dekeparked,thenturnedtofaceher.“JackintendedtodrivethecopyofBrandon’s
incriminatingvideostraighttohim.Iendedupdriving,sinceIdidn’tthinkJackandJack
madeagoodteamontheroads.”
“JackandJack?”
“JackColefullofJackDaniel’s.”
“Sohe’shere?”sheasked,herheartbeatsuddenlyzoominglikeawomanabouttofall
fromacliff.
Dekenodded.
“HecameallthewaytoHoustontodeliverthevideoandsentyoutodoitbecausehe
wastoodrunk?Thesonofabitchchosetocozyuptoabottle,ratherthanpossibly
gettingclosetome?”
“No.Whenwegothere,wedidalittlerecon.Whenherealizedyouwerestayingwith
Brandon,hewouldn’tgo.Herefusedtobotheryou.”
Ofallthecrazy,asininenotions…
BeforeDekecouldsaymore,Jackopenedthedooroftheroominfrontofhim,
gorgeouslyshirtless,darkhairdisheveled.Sunlightglaredinhisface.Hesquintedand
glaredtowardtheHummer.
“Didyoudeliverthedamnvideo?”Jackshouted,tryingtoshieldhiseyesfromthe
sun.
“Hmm.He’snotslurringanymore,”Dekecommented.
“Maybehe’sactuallysemi-sober.”
“Thisisridiculous.WhyamIhereexpectinganswersfromadrunkmanwhoonly
pursuedmesohecouldgetbackatsomeoneelseandgethisrocksoffatthesametime?
TakemebacktoBrandon’s.”
“Notyet.Tenminutes.Justgivehimthatmuch.”Morgansaidnothing.
“Ifyoudon’t,I’llhavetostartpleadingagain.”Sheshothimastarethatshouldhave
toldhimthatshewastotallyunmoved.But,asusual,Dekeignoredher.
“I’llgiveyouextrawhineifyoudon’tcavein…”“Ugh!Fine.Tenminutes,thenyou’re
takingmebackorI’mcallingataxi.Andahitmantofinishoffbothofyou.Pricks!”
“That’sagirl.”Heplantedasmackingkissheronthecheek,thenflashedheramillion-
wattsmile.
Morganjustrolledhereyes.“Let’sgetthisoverwith.”“I’llcomearoundtogetyou,
buthangtightforjustaminute.Idon’tthinkhecanseeyouwiththesuninhisface
andthesetintedwindows.AndIwantyoutohearsomething.”Dekeclimbeddownfrom
theHummer,thencalledtoJack,“Yep,it’sdelivered.”
“Youbringmeanewbottle?”
“Ibroughtyousomethingelse.Don’tyouwanttoknowthatIsawMorgan?”
“Soshewasthere.”Heblewoutabreath.Thenheswallowed,jawtensing.“Howwas
she?”
“Inbettershapethanyousinceshewasn’tsomewherebetweendrunkandhung
over.”
“Hershoulder?”
“Gettingbetter.Shewasupandwalkingaround.Shelookedgood.”
Jacknodded.Asimplegesture…butthefrownonhisfacetoreatMorgan.Brows
furrowed,eyesclosed,jawtight,helookedsodamnsad.Regretful.Destroyed.
Thesighttookheraback,rippedatherheart.Heactually…cared?That’swhatit
lookedlike.Hecouldn’tseeher,hadnoreasontoactsomethinghewasn’tordidn’tfeel.
Morganswallowed.
“I’llbetshelookedbeautiful.Shealwaysdid.”DekestoppedinfrontofJack,
lingeringonthesidewalkinthenoontimesun.“Yeah,andshelookedpissed.”
“Iexpectedthat.ImadeareallystupidfuckingchoicewhenIdidn’tcomecleanwith
her.IhadopportunitiesandI…”Heshookhishead,agesturerifewithregret.“Ididn’t
takethem.”“Yeah,thatmakesyouastupidputz,butthatisn’tthemainthingshe’s
pissedabout.”
“It’snot?”Helookedtotallyconfused.
Jackdidn’tgetit?Howcouldhenotgetit?Howcouldhetotallynotunderstand?
Amazing.
Pushedbyhopeandconfusionandhertemper,sheopenedtheHummerdoorand
leapeddown.“No,youdumbass,that’snotwhatI’mpissedabout.”
“See,ItoldyouIbroughtyousomething.”DekeflashedJackasmile.“Orsomeone.”
“Morgan,”Jackwhispered,takingasteptowardher,handsoutstretched.
“Niceofyoutorememberme.”
Thebarbinhervoicestoppedhimcold.Hedroppedhishands.“You’reheretochew
myassout.Ideserveit.Iswear,Inevermeanttohurtyou.Ididn’tthinkwe’dreally
becomesoemotionallyinvolved.ButtheminuteIlaideyesonyou—”“Oh,stopwiththe
romanticdrivel.SoIwasagoodlay,niceandsubmissiveand—”
“Kids,whydon’twetakethisinsidesothenicestrangersaroundthemotelcan’thear
aboutyoursexlives?”DekeshepherdedthemintoJack’sroom.
Morgandartedinside,pastJack,shockedthatshe’dbeensostirredupthatshouting
inaparkinglotabouttheirintimatedetailsseemedreasonable.God,thatmangotunder
herskinandfriedherbrain.
Inside,thewhitewallsandnondescriptpressedwoodfurnitureshouted“typical.”
Thestripedbeigeandivorycomforterlaystrewnwiththestiffwhitesheetsacrossthe
bed.Brownindoor/outdoorcarpetcompletedtheutilitarianlook.Thoroughlyugly.So
howthehellhadshewounduphavingoneofthemostemotionaldiscussionsofherlife
here?
SheturnedtofindDekeshuttingthedoorbeforeheleanedagainstit.Jackhovered
closetoher,socloseshecouldsmellthemysteryofhisscentblendingwiththewhiskey
he’dbeenguzzling.
Buthemadenomovetotouchher.
“Youweremorethanagoodlay,Morgan.Waymore,andIknewIshouldcomeclean.
AdozentimesItoldmyselfIshouldbut…”Remorsebledintohisgaze,tightenedhis
mouth.“Iloveyou,andIknewonceItoldyouthewholestorythatI’dloseyou.
Icouldn’tbringmyselftosayitandmakeyouhateme.Itwasgoingtocomesoon
enough.”
Morgansteeledherheartagainsttheadmission.Butshewasn’tquickenough.His
wordswerelikeasurpriseattack,andhope,pain,andyearningalljoinedtheshockto
wearherresistancedown.
Tearsstunghereyes.“YoulovemesomuchthatwhenIwasshot,youvisitedthe
hospital,hadanicecozychatwithBrandonaboutyourex-wife,thenlefthimtodeliver
yourapologiestome.Andyounevercameback.”
Jacksuckedinasharpbreath.“You…”
“Overheardeverywordatthehospital?Yes.ButwhatIneverheardwasthat,ifyou
supposedlylovedme,whenyouwerecomingback.Itseemedawfullyeasyforyouto
writemeoff.”Hefinallybreachedthedistancebetweenthemandgrippedheruninjured
shoulder.Histouchslidoverherlikeanelectricshock,ajoltofheat,ofdesire.Butmore,even.Thiscamewithablastofyearningthatexplodedfromherheart,sostrongit
nearlybroughthertoherknees.
ButJackheldherup.“Cher,Ifuckedup.Ididn’thaveanyrighttotrytowinyou
back.WouldyouhavebelievedawordIsaid?No,”heansweredforher.“Andwhy
shouldyoutakemeback?Idon’tdeserveit.Iknowthat.”
WasitreallyjustasDekesaid,thatJackfelttooguiltytopursuehisfeelingsforher?
Wasthattheonlythingthatstoppedhim?
Maybethemorefundamentalquestionwas,didshewanthimback?Didshewant
Jackandallhecouldgiveherinherlifeeachandeveryday.
Evenhisfingersaroundhershouldersmadeherfeelmorealivethanshehadinthe
lastweek.Awishburstinsideher,strainingagainstcommonsense.Theywerefrom
differentplaces,leddifferentlives…Pointlessrumination.Iftheyweretobecome
acouple,theycouldcompromise,meshlives,livepart-timeinLouisianaandpart-timein
LosAngeles.Something.Themoreimportantfactwasthatinside,they
sharedsomethingspecial,connectedphysicallyandemotionally.
Sexually.Withouthim,Morganhadfeltasifshe’dbeenmissingsomething
significant.
No,morethanthat.Shefeltlikeshe’dbeenmissinghalfofherself.
Risk-takinghadneverbeenherforte,andtakingtheoneshecontemplatednow
scaredthehelloutofher.Butiftherewasachance,evenaremoteone,thatsheandJack
couldgetbeyondthisrevengeofhisandhavesomethingsignificant,even
lasting…She’dbeafirst-classidiotnottofindthatout.
“Justanswermeonequestion,”shedemandedfinally.“IfIwasabletoforgiveyoufor
thisstupid-assvendettayouusedmeforandIsaidIwantedyoutotalktome,what
wouldyousay?”BehindJack,Dekepumpedhisfistintheairandnoddedinapproval.
Lord,she’dforgottenhewasthere.Beforeshecouldtellhimtogethisassoutofthe
room,Jackhauledheragainsthim.“I’dtellyouthatyou’rewhatI’vebeensearchingfor
mywholelife.I’dconfessthatIdreamedaboutyoubeforeIevermetyou,andthatthe
firsttimeIgotdeepinsideyouIthinkIknewthatyouweremeanttobemine.I’dtell
youIloveyou.”
Theswellofemotionbehindthosechokedwordsundidnearlyher,andMorganfelt
herresistancecrumblingevenmore.
Thetearsrushedback.Hermouthtrembled.Herthroattightened.
Herjawshookwiththeefforttoholdbackthetears.Howcouldthemangettoher
withafewperfectwords?Damnit.
“Cher,IwishIcouldjustgrowlacommandatyouandmakeyoucomeback.ButI
can’tjustcontrolyouremotions.It’smoreimportantthangrowlingatyoutotakeoff
yourlittlewetpanties.”
Hewasgivingherthepower.Totally.Hemightorderheraroundinthebedroom,but
hewasn’tcoercinghertogiveanythingshewasn’twillingto.Hewasn’tgoingtobully
herintosurrenderingherheart.Hewantedhertogiveit.
Thatfactshonefromdark,red-rimmedeyesinahollow,stubble-linedfacethatlooked
likehehadfeltnothingbuthellfordays.
Therealizationthathelovedherandwantedherloveinreturnslidoverherlikeone
ofhermother’squilts,soft,comforting,warm.
“Ididn’tknowwhattosayordoorhowtogetoutofthemessI’dcreated.”Hisself-
deprecatinglaughscratchedacrosshersenses,ignitingherheart.
“‘I’msorry’isagoodstart,”shewhispered.
“I’mdamnsorry.IfIhadittodooveragain…I’dgiveyouyourinterview,tellyouthat
eventhoughIhatedBrandon,Iwantedyoumorethananythingintheworld.ThenI’d
seduceyouuntilleavingmewasthelastthingonyourmind.”
“Betterplan.”
“Smarter,that’sforsure.”Jackshrugged,droppedhishands.“Butyou’dhaveto
forgiveme.”
“You’dhavetopromisenottopullsomethingthisbrainlessagain.”
“Promisingthatwouldbeeasy.”
“You’dhavetoagreetobenicetoBrandon.”
Jacktensed.“We’vemadeourpeace.Idon’trespectwhathedid…butIdidn’tdo
muchbetter.Idon’tknowthatwe’reevergoingtobegreatfriendsagain,butwe’llget
along.Icouldmakethathappen.”
Morgansmiled.Insane,complex,drive-her-crazymanandhisstunninglyhonest
answer.“You’dhavetopromisetofulfillallmyfantasies.”
ThatperkedJackrightup.Hecrashedintoherpersonalspaceagainandcrushedher
againsthischest.Morganfeltsafe,feltlikeshe’dcomehome.
“That’sapromiseI’llhavenotroublekeeping,”hewhispered.“Yougotmore
fantasiesIshouldknowabout?”“Justoneatthemoment.”Shedrewinadeepbreath,
tingedwiththescentofJack,solidandenigmaticallatonce,thescentofhopeand
tomorrowandgreatsextocome.
“Yeah?”hemurmuredagainsthermouth.“Tellme,moncoeur.”
Morgandroppedhergaze,drewinadeepbreath,andwentforbroke.“That
everythingwe’vebeentalkingaboutcouldbereal.Iwanttoforgiveyou—”
“AndIwantyoutowearmypendant.”Hefisheditoutofhispocket.“I’vebeen
keepingithere,closetome…tobeclosetoyou.”
“Jack.”Morganjustaboutdissolvedintotears.“Iwanttokeepyou,loveyou,have
youwithmealways,”hewhispered.
Inthebackground,Dekeclappedandletlooseastadiumworthywhistle.
Jackstartedatthesound.Thenhegrowledsomethingugly,setMorganaside,and
stompedtothedoor.HegrabbedDekebythearm.“Andsomefantasiesaremeanttobe
fortwo.”HeshovedDekeoutthedoorintotheharshmiddaysun.“Gotoyour
ownroom.”
“Anddowhat?You’remoreentertainingthanthesoapoperasonTVrightnow.”
“Fuckoff.”Jackslammedthedoorinhisface,thensidledbacktoMorgan.“Where
werewe?”
Shecouldn’tstopthesmilecurlingupherlips.“Withyouhavingthefantasythatyou
couldkeepmeandlovemeforever.”“Stillhavingthatfantasy.”Hecuppedherfacein
hislarge,warmhands,andstaredatherwithdark,hungryeyes.“Canyoumakeitcome
true,cher?”
“Thankstoyou,IknowwhoandwhatIamnow.”Shebrushedasolemnkissacross
hismouth.“Yourwishismycommand…sir.”
DocumentOutline
TitlePage
Copyright
CHAPTERONE
CHAPTERTWO
CHAPTERTHREE
CHAPTERFOUR
CHAPTERFIVE
CHAPTERSIX
CHAPTERSEVEN
CHAPTEREIGHT
CHAPTERNINE
CHAPTERTEN
CHAPTERELEVEN
CHAPTERTWELVE
CHAPTERTHIRTEEN
CHAPTERFOURTEEN
CHAPTERFIFTEEN
CHAPTERSIXTEEN
CHAPTERSEVENTEEN
CHAPTEREIGHTEEN
CHAPTERNINETEEN