Fire Inside Me

by J. Hali Steele

  “I wouldn’t mind.” She tapped out a message and his phone buzzed. “That’s where we’ll be at seven.”

  “I’ll hang out here while you shop. Vick, him and his family believe I’m in private investigations which, as you know, is involved in my occupation. He has a mouth on him, he tends to ramble, and he’s fucking beautiful. I’m babbling. Jesus, I do that when I think about him. I become confused.”

  “Uh-huh. Well, PI, I can work with. You guys do enough spying. Because you’ve been there for me and I love you like a brother, the house thing, I’ll evade questions as much as I can but never, ever ask me to lie. You know how I feel about that.”

  “I understand and if he questions you outright, I expect you to be honest.”

  “Interested to meet one of your beaus. It’ll be a first. Though, I can’t imagine how you let this get out of hand.”

  “I’m aware. Vick, I don’t care how much he spends and take my car because, fuck, he thinks it’s yours.”

  “Oh, for God’s sake, Sage. You must really like this young man.”

  “Yeah, I do and I’ve likely already fucked it up.” He scrutinized Vick. “How do you handle what Wiley does?”

  “I don’t know how to answer that.” Brown eyes pierced him. “Already knew what he did which prevented his lying to me.” Standing, she crossed the floor. “I’ve loved him a little bit since the day I first stared into those gray eyes.” Without facing Sage, Vick’s words held force. “Nothing else matters.” She left the door open so he’d hear if anyone came into the office.

  Hadn’t considered love. Sage figured he’d never find it. “I’m infatuated.” Work mostly kept him busy and occasional sexual release satisfied him for weeks. Probably because he rarely found what he searched for without paying. When he was bored, he traveled. If he grew antsy at home, Sage devoured mysteries. He pursued calmness creating and toiling in his gardens. Sometimes loneliness raised its head and battered him. He’d call Syl seeking another contract. Anything. Anyone.

  Not unless you like having that ass tapped. Emory already excited him. When he spoke those words, he capsized Sage’s world.

  “Nothing else matters.”

  Morning went well after Sage left. At loose ends, he decided to call Jeff. He left things with him on a good note. Said he understood but Em wanted to make sure he was okay and would move on. He liked the guy and felt bad he got dealt the father he did. Powered his phone on. “Damn.” Direct to voicemail. Emory ended the call when his lengthy message became incoherent. His name would pop on screen when Jeff next used his phone. “Shit, shit.” Landline. It was a quick call and he vowed not to use his phone again. Silencing it, he stuck it in a drawer.

  Surprised him to find an author he liked on Vick’s shelves. Curled on the sofa with Vegas in his lap, he immersed himself in reading the selected mystery. Hardly finished the first chapter when a soft chime sounded. Must be a package delivery. Snatching the door open, he looked into smiling brown eyes on a stunning face surrounded by a spray of blonde hair. Emory had knowledge of clothing and what she wore would cover his last semester. Too damn sharp to be delivering whatever was in the plain bag she held. “Can I help you?”

  She pushed it into his hand. “Sage explained about his rolls.”

  “Excuse me?”

  “Sourdough rolls.” Hand outstretched, “Emory, you’re as beautiful as he implied. Call me Vick or Victoria. I answer to either.”

  “Jesus, no! Vick? Oh. My. Lord.” He clasped her hand and held it. “I told him I wanted to fuck you. You can’t be a woman.” He peeped around her. “Good, he’s gone. Freak left someone spying on me.”

  “I see. You can tell me…umm, why you wanted to screw me after you invite me inside.” She tugged her hand away.

  “Sorry. Didn’t mean to hang on like that. And, God, come in, it’s your house. It’s beautiful too. That’s why I told him I’d screw you to get the keys to the castle. Of course, didn’t know it was Victoria. I’d rent the garage and be ecstatic. I love your garden but you do need to do something about that fence. It trapped Vegas and she almost starved.”

  “Slow down. Who’s Vegas?”

  “My kitten. Somehow, she became separated from her mom in your yard. You need to keep an eye out it doesn’t happen again. Maybe put a small hole at the bottom.”

  “There must be a hole somewhere.”

  “Dang, you’re right. Good and you shouldn’t repair it. Wonder why she didn’t return for her baby? I guess it happens. Hell’s sake.”

  “What?”

  “I accused Sage of being a cheater.”

  “I’ve never known him to cheat. On second thought, he’s never lived with anyone either.”

  “I’m not living with him. At least not until we reach California. Then I, fuck, guess I will be. Sage’s place is probably a dump.”

  “It’s…not bad.” Spying Vegas on the sofa, Vick grinned. “Interesting a cat is in…the house. She is a beautiful little thing.”

  “Probably plans on me being his houseboy or some shit. Lord, I loathe apologizing.”

  “Let’s get to why I’m here. I’m going out with my boyfriend tonight and Sage suggested the two of you join. He supposed you might enjoy shopping for an outfit.”

  “Oh, no he did not. That raggedy dressing piece of shit thinks I need new clothes?”

  “Sage? Raggedy?”

  “Have you seen those jeans he wears?”

  “Yes, he wears them for work.”

  “Then I guess he was busy as hell in Pennsylvania.”

  “Anyway, he takes responsibility for the misunderstanding. I’ve known him a while and he’s sorrier than I’ve ever seen.”

  No way Sage could feel as bad as Emory. “Alright. Give me time to settle Vegas.” Half hour later, twirling through the doorway into the living area, phone rang. Could only be one person. “Yes, Vick’s here…I should have let you explain…Umm, you’re asking me out?” Vick walked away allowing Emory privacy. “I’d like to get out for a bit. Not long though because I have to bottle feed Vegas on schedule. Salesperson at the store said formula is best…Vegas? That’s the name I like, Sage. Don’t be a prick, she’s mine…Fine, six, I’ll be ready.” Call ended on a sketchy note. “Patches, my ass. How common.” Ooh, Sage’s comment about using him resurfaced. Hah, he stated he wasn’t averse to spending money when he had needs. You need someone on your arm, I need clothes. “Vick, let’s go spend his money.”

  Emory’s remorse returned full force. Found himself wishing like hell anyone, maybe even Sage, needed him.

  Chapter Six

  J

  effrey Farrington boarded his jet behind his son. “This will end, Jeff. I’m sick and tired of making threats you choose to ignore.”

  “I really like him, father.”

  “It. Will. Never. Be.”

  “Then why the rush and how can hauling me along help?”

  “Life doesn’t always go your way. Difficult decisions have to be made and it’s time for you to understand that. Sit down, read, drink. Sleep if you like. I don’t care but I don’t want to hear your voice. Your being defiant put me in an untenable position. Thank goodness I monitored your phone.”

  “I’m not a kid.”

  “No more idle threats.” Plane had started to taxi. Farrington punched a button permitting his son to hear their pilot speak with the tower. “I will stop this plane.” Glared at his son. “How would you like to live without a single dime of my money?”

  “What?”

  “My way or you get off this plane and never try to contact me as long as I breathe. See how well you like living on your own or with some poor pansy ass fucker who can’t afford to buy you a goddamn decent cup of coffee. The pocket money, that fancy sports car, a beautiful home to show off, it all disappears, Jeff. I’ve had enough of your blatant and willful disobedience.”

  “Father I, please, I…”

  “Well?”

 
“Don’t. Don’t stop the plane.”

  “As I thought.” Reached in his breast pocket. “Here’s your phone.”

  Farrington’s new goons, stone-faced men sitting at the back of his plane, wouldn’t screw up. He intended to supervise these two, make sure they succeeded where the others failed. Las Vegas first then he planned a special appearance at World Wide Assets Insurance, that Syl person’s place of business. He’d straighten this shit out himself.

  Silver spoon rich, Farrington learned from his father how to be a motherfucking son of a bitch. Nothing would stand in the way of what he’d worked his whole life to achieve. Wealth overflowed. There was only one thing missing.

  Power. Absolute power.

  Heard Sage come in just as he prepared to shower. Refused to rush as Emory planned looking his best. The Forum at Caesar’s Palace was magnificent and he felt as if he were a honey bee buzzing in and out of shops. When guilt crept in, Vick coerced him to buy. Splurged picking up a small Acqua Di Parma Essence cologne and their light holding hair cream. He certainly dented the man’s bank account. Mind’s eye conjuring those damn jeans mortified Em enough to put brakes on his spending spree. What in heck would Sage wear? Off the rack or denim which would coordinate with his purchase.

  Lordy, Em had spent money as if it were his.

  New outfit chosen to wear really wasn’t that special but he loved it. Shin length, it was unusually lightweight blue denim which accented his eyes. The dress was split up the back, and front buttons stopped mid-thigh. Designer’s name escaped him but going by price, they were on their way to being somebody him and others would eventually recognize. Em opted on a wide chainmail belt instead of what came with the outfit. It matched shiny silver buttons.

  Hit him that out west he’d never have to wear socks or stockings. Emory had perfectly proportioned calves and loved showing off bare, freshly shaved legs. Didn’t buy shoes because he had a marvelous pair of gladiator style sandals he’d been keeping for a special occasion. A zipper up the back and seven narrow buckled straps. Thick, glitter covered sole completed the chic look. Emory saw them at King of Prussia mall months ago and cleaned out his savings when they screamed buy me. They’d remained boxed but would finally be worn. French manicure he’d gotten on toes a few days before leaving Coatesville had held up well.

  Entered the living area and stopped dead in his tracks. “God!”

  “Sage will suffice.”

  “Smart ass. You’re…dang, you look scrumptious.”

  “I’ve never been described as edible. Let me guess?” Green eyes perused Emory. “You bought denim of your own so as not to miss my jeans.” Smile softened a usually stern face. “I can go put them on.”

  “No, it’s just…don’t be a dick. You’re very handsome.”

  “You are only now discovering that?”

  “No. Damn jeans ruined the wonderful picture I’m studying now.” He’d learned a lot at the classy shop he did books for. The buyer, a feisty woman, had no trouble sharing knowledge with Emory. Sage’s charcoal suit had to be tailor made. It fit perfectly. No tie, two top buttons of his white shirt remained open displaying a smattering of hair. Damn if he didn’t wear cufflinks and, shit, did real diamonds provide the glint of light? Being alone with him will pose a problem. “You are a fine piece of ass.”

  “And you’re fucking beautiful.” Corner of his mouth tugged upward. “Not sure I can handle so much thigh all night.”

  No different than the others. “Meaning?”

  “I might want to touch them.”

  “Without an invitation, don’t.”

  “I like looking but unless I have explicit encouragement, I’d never touch anything that isn’t mine. Remember that, Emory. You ready?”

  They all alleged the same. They all tried. Would Sage attempt to coerce Em into a position he refused to be caught in ever again? Shouldn’t have accepted clothing that came as an apology; definitely should not have agreed to dinner. Didn’t improve anything when Emory said, “I need to be back by ten.”

  “Not a problem.”

  “You smell wonderful.” Taking the seat next to him, Sage grumbled, “Hope that wasn’t out of line.”

  “Sage, you can tell me I smell good. You do also, by the way. But don’t you dare touch me. How long will it take them to bring our food? I’m starved and I don’t like leaving Vegas by herself too long.”

  Vick chuckled, Wiley smirked and that damnable brow slanted. Sage had learned over years when Wiley rendered such a look, something dire lurked. Shit. While Em and Vick perused the menu, Sage rose. “I’m going to use the restroom.” Angrily strode toward the back. Wiley followed. Occupant in a stall, one at the urinal, two washing hands. Sage, his mood deteriorating, barked, “Talk.”

  “An eagle, accompanied by its young, roosted at McCarran.”

  Farrington and son. “Goddamn it?” All but the guy in the stall finished business and exited. Door barely closed before he asked, “Friends?”

  “Two and they are nasty pieces of work.” Wiley leaned against the counter. “Hope you don’t mind my putting out feelers. Want you to know I’m with you.”

  “We eat then we hunt.”

  “Sounds good. I haven’t seen action for a while and it feels good to have blood racing through my old veins.”

  “Vick?”

  “I’m not worried. Your inamorata made an impression. From Vick’s retelling, you should be worried.”

  “Why?”

  “He’s mouthy. Should I call him your boyfriend?”

  “No.”

  “Whatever you say.” Wiley stepped toward the door but pivoted. “Who is Vegas?”

  “What? Vick told you how much she likes Emory but didn’t mention his cat?”

  “Jesus, you’re living with two felines. Good luck.”

  “Fuck you, Wiley.”

  “There you go…”

  “Goddamn it, don’t start sand pile crap.” Sage shoved him aside. “I’m hungry.”

  “While you eat, think about how your mark was located.”

  “I already have a damn good idea.” Bastard couldn’t leave off contacting his boyfriend. Sage envisioned how Emory’s fingers brushed the man’s face, how he leaned and kissed him so damn softly. “Should have taken that phone.”

  “We live and learn, my friend.”

  “I exacted a promise.”

  “Perhaps opening up would be the answer.”

  “Are you suggesting I tell him what line of business I’m in?”

  “You’ll have to sooner or later.”

  “This arrangement is short term, Wiley.”

  “Keep telling yourself that. Get mad, curse me, whatever, Sage. I observe how you look at him.” Wiley left him staring at a slowly closing door.

  “Fuck, fuck, fuck.” Sage determined not to confront Emory at dinner; however, he had a hard time sticking to his decision. Biting one’s tongue does nothing good for digestion.

  Hope I have antacids in the car.

  “Being the sexiest motherfucker I know will not stop me knuckling down on your ass. I will strip you bare and lock you up.”

  “Excuse me?” Two steps in the house, Emory pivoted. “Who the…who do you think you are?” Hated his voice cracked. “Is this because I refuse to have you paw me like an animal? Fuck you, Sage.”

  “Is there something you want to tell me?”

  “You want to know? I like wearing women’s clothes, they’re everything I adore in fashion. I wear suits too. So what? I’ve always been different and I’m lucky to have parents who don’t question what they may have done wrong. They accept and love me.”

  “That’s not what I’m asking.”

  “You want to know what happened to me? I’m guessing Rusty said I changed. I’m not good-natured and loving anymore. He’s always harping that shit and I’d bet he coerced mom and dad into this temporary move.” He fell against the wall. “Shitty men happened. Heterosexual men
didn’t corner that market. Gay men attracted to my size, my look didn’t respect me, Sage. They didn’t care to understand I enjoy being sexy and beautiful and at the same time I want to bang their fucking brains out. It’s who I am—I. Love. Me. You’re one of those…”

  “Whoa, whoa, you make a lot of assumptions.” Eyes darkened. “Like you did about my wardrobe. I like jeans. But don’t you dare presume you know a goddamn thing about my sexual preference.”

  “I’ve been manhandled by men like you. First time I got a hard-on, I wanted to fuck someone. No one has ever fucked this pretty ass. The idea of it does not and never will turn me on. Even with you. When you had me trapped in the hallway, what were your intentions?” Emory, unable to run, pressed tighter to the wall when Sage advanced. Green eyes widened. Concern? “Don’t you dare come closer. I’ll scratch your eyes out.”

  “I believe you. But know this, I’ve never done anything to a man without permission. Nor have I taken what they weren’t willing to give or what I paid for.”

  “I…you wanted…you said rub all over my cock so I can fuck you.”

  “You never let me finish saying anything before you hypothesized about a boyfriend. I desired jerking myself off. Satisfied?” Sage took two steps back. “This is about you phoning your boyfriend when you promised not to use your cell.”

  “Oh, shit, I, uh, I forgot the landline. How did you know?”

  “He arrived in Las Vegas with his father this afternoon. Along with them are two hired killers. Jeffrey R. Farrington had you roughed up in Coatesville. I’m protecting your disruptive ass. He wants you dead because his boy returns your affection and a gay son with a lover wouldn’t be good for his run at the governor’s mansion.”

  “What?”

  “That’s it, Emory? What? What; you don’t believe Jeff’s father would harm you? What; you think Jeff will protect you?” He reached out, touched Em’s cheek. “I’ve thought about you every goddamn minute since the night I first laid eyes on you. I wanted to kill that fucker who hit you in the face. Those two men who arrived today, they’ll die before they set eyes on your pretty ass.”