Bait Me

by Bella Jeanisse

  Several gasps worried Roselyn, but she let it go. “I know I didn’t tell you. I’m sorry, but you guys tend to freak out.”

  Caleb jumped up. “You’re fucking my sister? Hell no!”

  “Cut it out!” Roselyn shoved her brother. “It’s not like that. We’re dating… and it’s getting serious. Next month… we’re moving in together. We wanted to tell you all at once.”

  Rick clenched and unclenched his fists. “Devin promised me none of his crew would prey on her.”

  “That’s not what happened.” Roselyn rolled her eyes. “He was a gentleman onboard the boat.”

  Sal held up a hand. “Sir, this didn’t begin until we met back home. I don’t live far from Shorewood. After we bumped into each other twice, I suggested we date.”

  Noah covered his mouth to hide his snicker. When he had it under control, he nodded. “I’m all for it as long as he doesn’t hurt her.”

  Celina stared at her hands. “You said you’re moving in together… as in before marriage?”

  “Yes, Mom.” Sal expected her reaction. “I planned to move closer to her, but this is a better solution.”

  Rick took a few deep breaths. “How long has this been going on?”

  “Just about two months, Dad.” Roselyn shook her head when all four of her brothers protested. “Look! I’m an adult, and I’m not the type to jump into a relationship. We’ve discussed this and agree it’s the best course of action… for us.” She turned to her father. “Daddy, I love him. I really do. I never expected this, but I’m not letting him go without a fight.”

  Kris grabbed Rick’s hand. “You need to let her grow up at home as much as on the boat. She’s a responsible young woman.”

  “I trust my daughter’s judgment,” Rick admitted. “Although I’m not happy you two plan to shack up, I’ll give you the benefit of the doubt.”

  Roselyn grinned and launched herself at her father. “Thank you, Daddy.” When she pulled back, she found Sal close by. “He’s very good to me, and we have an equal relationship.”

  “That’s how it should be.” Rick kissed her temple. “You just tell me if he misbehaves.”

  Sal held out a hand. “I promise to treat Ros like a queen, sir.” Relief came over him when Rick shook his hand.

  “If you fuck up, there’ll be hell to pay… from all of us.”

  “Yes, sir.” Sal met the older man’s gaze. “Ros will kick my ass before any of you get there.”

  Rick cracked a smile. “True. My girl can take care of herself.”

  Kris poked his arm. “This is the perfect time to tell them. They need to know anyway.”

  “Fine. Fine.” Rick stood. “I have an announcement too.” He waited until everyone settled down. “I’m not going up for salmon season.”

  “What?” Caleb’s eyes widened. “But the boat makes a lot of money-”

  “Just me,” Rick clarified. “The boat will be going with you at the helm, Caleb. A few weeks ago, I had a minor stroke.”

  Roselyn’s body tensed. “You should’ve told us.”

  “I decided not to tell you because it wasn’t serious. I’m fine.” Rick caught Kris’ annoyed expression. “OK, it was serious. I didn’t want to worry you before I knew how we prevent another one. I’m on medication, but I can’t sit in the wheelhouse for hours on end without risk of clots forming in my legs. This means we need an extra hand.”

  Sal lifted a finger. “If you don’t find anyone, I can talk to Devin about me heading out with you.”

  “Thanks. Might take you up on that.”

  Caleb scowled. “I don’t wanna see these two making out in the galley.”

  “Not gonna happen,” Roselyn insisted. “Work is work and it needs to stay that way.”

  “Agreed.” Sal hoped they at least had a few moments alone though. “Um, Mr. Jensen, can I speak to you in private?”

  Rick nodded and led Sal to the kitchen. “I want your word that you won’t hurt my daughter on purpose. She’s my only girl, and she’s been through a lot.”

  “Yes, sir. You have it.” Sal shoved his hands in his pockets. “I know what she’s been through. I swear I love her, and she has nothing to fear from me.”

  “Good. Now what did you want to talk about?”

  Sal swallowed hard. “Um… well, sir…”

  “Call me Rick.”

  “Not sure I can, sir.”

  “Fine, whatever. Talk to me, son.”

  Sal rocked on his feet. “I planned something for this weekend Ros doesn’t know about. But before I do that, I felt I needed to ask you first. Would you… Can I… Would we have your blessing to get married before salmon season? I have a ring and everything.”

  Rick’s jaw dropped. “Did you just ask my permission to marry my daughter?”

  “Yes. Is that a no?” Sal jumped when Rick hugged him. “Am I a dead man now?”

  “Of course not. After that, you have my blessing. Most men would be too terrified to ask me for her hand. Don’t tell her, or she’ll kill you.”

  Sal hadn’t thought of that. “Right. I didn’t think you’d appreciate me skipping over that step.”

  “I wouldn’t.” Rick grinned. “Welcome to the family.”

  “But I haven’t asked yet.”

  “Doesn’t matter. If she loves you, you will eventually be one of us.”

  Roselyn watched the hallway for Sal and her father. What the hell are they talking about? She expected shouting but heard none. When they appeared with smiles on their faces, she cocked an eyebrow. Her father sat down, but Sal stood in front of her.

  “Are you OK?” She scrutinized him and sensed anxiety. “Did Dad threaten you?”

  Sal laughed. “No, he didn’t.” His gaze swept the room. All eyes stayed on him. It’s now or never. He knelt before her and yanked the box from his pocket. “Fate brought us together, and I don’t want anything to tear us apart.” He shifted to one knee and lifted the open box. “Share my life with me forever. Will you marry me?”

  Roselyn’s eyes widened. “But we’ve only been together two months.”

  “I can’t be more sure you’re the right one for me. You love me, don’t you?”

  “Yes.”

  He snatched her hand. “How would you feel if I died tomorrow?”

  She gasped, and her eyes watered. “It’d rip me apart.”

  “I feel exactly the same. That’s why I know… I’ll never love someone the way I love you.”

  Her gaze flicked to the simple solitaire stone, then back to his face. His excitement shown through. They’d never discussed marriage. She assumed being roommates would be the final commitment. Her mind flashed through every moment with him. She had no regrets.

  “Would I have to take your name?”

  He shrugged. “That’s up to you. Would you rather I take yours?”

  “We could take each other’s and hyphenate it.”

  “Is that a yes?” His heart pounded when she stayed silent. Her hand trembled in his. “If you’re not ready, I understand.”

  She opened her mouth to speak, but no words came out. Tears burned her eyes. What’s wrong with me? I’m not upset.

  “Should’ve done this at home.” Sal closed the box. “Sorry to put you on the spot like that.” He rose to his feet.

  “No, wait!” She grabbed his hands. “Yes! I’ll marry you.”

  Noah cheered. “After that nail bitter, I’m glad she said yes. Welcome to the family, Sal.”

  CHAPTER FOURTEEN

  Two Months Later…

  “Are you ready?”

  Sal glanced at Devin. “Been ready since I asked her.” He adjusted his bowtie and took a deep breath. The deck of the Highlander had never looked so good.

  “Getting cold feet?” Gus bumped Sal’s arm. “She’ll kill you if you don’t go through with it.”

  “I’m fine. Just not used to a tie.”

  Gus chuckled. “This is my first time in a tux, but I did it for Ros.”

  When music
started, Sal’s gaze shifted to the open doorway across the deck. Ciara appeared dressed in a deep purple gown. “Here we go.”

  “Damn, that girl’s hot.” Gus whistled softly. “You gotta get me her number.”

  “Later, man. It’s my wedding day.”

  Sal glanced at the Seattle skyline. They’d chosen to do the ceremony there to make it easier for everyone involved. His gaze shifted to his parents. All the important people in his life were there.

  Roselyn stood just inside while Kris adjusted her veil. “Daddy, are you OK?”

  “Fine, Spitfire.” Rick took her hand in his. “Can’t believe this day is here. My baby is the first of my children to get married.”

  With a smirk, Roselyn replied, “That’s because I’m more mature than all of them.”

  Kris nodded. “Ain’t that the truth. Those boys need to grow up.”

  “I think they will once they have to run the boat on their own.” Rick swiped a tear away. “You look so beautiful, honey.”

  Roselyn pursed her lips for a moment. “This makeup took forever, so don’t make me cry, Dad.”

  “I’m shocked we got you in a dress.” Kris checked the back of the gown. “I expected you to wear fishing gear.”

  Rick let out a laugh. “That’d be interesting.”

  “I have a few dresses. They only come out for special occasions.” Roselyn wiggled when Kris tugged on the waist of her dress. “This thing is restrictive though.”

  Kris smoothed the skirt. “You’ll be in it for an hour max. I’ll make sure it’s stored properly when you leave for Alaska.”

  Caleb stuck his head in. “Are you guys coming out or staying in here?”

  “Oh no. We missed our cue.” Roselyn gripped her small bouquet tighter. A shiver ran through her body.

  Kris rubbed her shoulder. “It’s fine.” She took Caleb’s offered arm and disappeared.

  Rick placed a kiss on Roselyn’s forehead. “We need to get out there. Are you sure about this?”

  “I am, Daddy. He’s the one. I know it.”

  “Good choice.”

  She peeked at the deck decorated with white ribbons and bows. “Hope he doesn’t think I changed my mind.”

  Across the deck, Sal took deep breaths. He fought the urge to fiddle with his jacket. What’s taking so long? He wiped his palms on his pants and glanced up at the door again. Relief washed over him when Rick stepped out.

  Mouth agape, Sal watched his girl stride down the makeshift aisle on her father’s arm. The white gown showed off every curve he loved. It even gave an eyeful of cleavage. As she came closer, his heartrate increased. We’re really doing this!

  Roselyn’s eyes widened at the sight of Sal. He hadn’t told her he would be in a tuxedo. They’d only planned the wedding two weeks prior. His eyes held excitement, while his body gave off a nervous vibe. At least I’m not the only one.

  She grinned at Sal when she reached him. “You look incredible.”

  “Are you kidding me?” He took her hand when her father let her go. “You’re breathtaking. Seriously, I never imagined you this… classy and graceful.” He frowned for a moment. “I don’t mean you don’t always look good. You do. It’s just… I’m overwhelmed by this.” He waved a hand to encompass her entire body. “It’s true what they say. You are the most beautiful girl in the world to me.”

  Tears stung her eyes. “Don’t you make me cry before we get started.”

  “I don’t mean to. But this proves you’re my soulmate.”

  She nodded. “And you’re mine.”

  Devin cleared his throat. “Sorry to interrupt, but we leave in two hours.”

  “Sorry.” Roselyn dabbed under her eyes. “You did get certified to do this, right?”

  “Only for you two.” Devin smiled at his wife nearby. “That online course was easy though. Are you ready to begin?”

  Roselyn nodded. “Can’t wait.”

  The actual ceremony took only minutes. Devin read off cue cards which most found funny. At the very end, he grinned. “Congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Russo-Jensen.”

  Sal held Roselyn close. “This is the most amazing day of my life. I love you.”

  “I love you too.” She reached up and kissed his lips.

  Rick laid a hand on their backs. “That was beautiful. After you change, we’ll be heading home. When you two get back, we can have a huge reception.”

  “That would be nice, Daddy.” Roselyn hugged him with one arm. “Thank you for letting us have the ceremony here. It’s the start of our new life together.”

  Sal grinned. “Yeah, especially since I’ll be working on this boat from now on.”

  “I better not hear of any slacking from either of you,” Rick warned. “I’ll come back and take over the wheelhouse again if I need to.”

  Caleb approached them. “I’ll rat her out in a second if she fucks up.” He winked at his baby sister. “At least now she has to take orders from me.”

  “You wish.” She stuck out her tongue. “Nothing will change except you’re plotting our course and where to set the pots.”

  Sal spotted his parents making their way to them. “My mom is still crying.”

  “Aw.” Roselyn urged her father to her right side. “You have to share me, Daddy.”

  Celina stepped into her son’s embrace as she struggled to contain herself. “I can’t believe you’re married.”

  Matteo gripped Sal’s shoulder. “You didn’t tell me you were taking her name instead of her taking yours.”

  “Dad.” Sal sighed. “We have both names. It’s Russo-Jensen because we’ll be running this boat one day.”

  “What about my boat?” His father tried to hide his deep disappointment.

  Sal felt it though. “I’m a crabber now, Dad. Sorry. I can’t go back to round the year salmon fishing. Maybe if we have children, they’ll want to join you. I won’t stop them. At least you have my cousins on the crew.”

  “True.” Matteo shrugged. “I always knew you might not want to take over. Either way, I’m proud of you, son.”

  Devin suddenly shouted, “OK, let’s get these boats ready and head to Alaska!” Most of the crowd began their goodbyes.

  Sal gripped Roselyn’s side. “Time to change out of these fancy clothes.” He leaned down and kissed her lips. “Hope Noah got lots of pictures.”

  Noah grabbed his sister’s free hand. “I did. You look amazing! Sad you only get to wear that dress for like thirty minutes.”

  “If you want, I can put it on for the reception.” She shrugged. “I kinda like it.” She twisted her hips to move the long skirt.

  Sal whistled. “I like that idea. So sexy.”

  “Can’t agree with that.” Noah cringed. “Anyway, are you guys planning a honeymoon, or is the trip to Alaska substituting?”

  Roselyn grinned and hugged Sal’s middle. “We’re going to Aruba in the offseason. Seven days and six nights on a private beach with no one to bug us.”

  “That sounds great.” Noah glared at Caleb nearby. “I’m sure I’ll be stuck with that guy while you live it up.”

  Sal winked. “You just need to find your own soulmate. Start looking where you don’t expect her to be. Like how we met.”

  “Dude! You two getting together would’ve been impossible if you both didn’t live in California.” Noah shook his head.

  “You can’t tell me there are no women who fish in Oregon.” Roselyn chuckled, then added, “Or you could just go to strip clubs.”

  Sal’s face heated up. “Will you keep your voice down?”

  “Why? No one has any idea what I mean.” She turned to her brother. “Except you.”

  Next to them, Caleb held out his arms until his sister relented and hugged him. “Congratulations. Really.” He let go after a few moments. “Now get your ass changed so we can leave for Dutch Harbor.”

  She let out a laugh. “And your reign begins.” She bumped Sal’s arm. “Let’s go below, so I can show you where we’re sleeping.”
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  “We’re never gonna get any sleep,” Noah complained.

  “Shut up!” She pushed both brothers away and led Sal below deck. “I have my own bunk room because my dad insisted.”

  Sal smirked. “Does that mean it won’t be a lonely trip?”

  “Um… sort of.” She opened the door to her room and stepped inside. “This will be our home away from home for a few hours every couple of days.”

  “Oh wow. At least it’s not as tiny as our room on the Passionate Dreams.” He glanced at the twin bunks. “We can make it work.” He pulled her to him and held her face in his hands. “I’ll be happy as long as we’re together.”

  She closed her eyes when his lips brushed over hers. “So will I.”

  ###

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  SNEAK PEEKS

  SILVERBLADE

  Silverblade - Book 1

  Shane Martin sat in his car, unsure if he was doing the right thing. He gripped the steering wheel while his mind spun. Nothing mattered anymore. A year prior, he’d been the lead singer and rhythm guitarist of Silverblade. That seemed like a lifetime ago. He wasn’t sure what his future held.

  He glanced up and caught his reflection in the rearview mirror. The bags under his eyes were commonplace. The red that rimmed his blue irises showed the lack of sleep. His gaze shifted and landed on a familiar house.