Honor on the Cape

by M. K. Meredith

  They burst through the front doors of the house as quickly as her skirt and train would allow her to go, past the kitchen, and down the hall until they found the honey room.

  Once inside, she slammed the door shut then locked it.

  The click sounded loud in the quiet of the room.

  They could hear the crowd outside. The music, the joy.

  This was her town, after all.

  “What are we doing in here?”

  “I told you. I want you to extract some honey.”

  He stared at the large stainless pots in bewilderment. “Seriously, I have no idea—”

  “Jamie, we need to talk.” Her voice was low, but the tone caught his attention.

  She ran the tip of her finger along the upper swell of her breast at the neckline of her dress. “And I want you to extract my honey.”

  “Well, fucking hell,” he growled, reaching for her. “I might have to be told twice, but I only have to hear it once.”

  “Wait, I—”

  His lips found hers in a kiss that was as sweet as it was hot. All thoughts of conversation flew from her head as she promised herself that one day she’d get him in one of the bee suits just so she could take it off him again.

  The subtle scent of honey in the air and the soft jazz filling the room from outside was the most delicious backdrop to her guaranteed happy ending that she could have ever imagined.

  Jamie turned Blayne around and unzipped her gown to discover she was completely naked underneath. With an urgency that was foreign to him, he didn’t waste any time helping her step out of it and into his arms. The thing was an amazing contraption that somehow stood on its own as if it had an audience.

  He didn’t give a fuck if they had a stadium. He was about to give the best performance of his life, and if anyone even thought of interrupting, he’d kill ‘em, then spend the rest of his life in jail warm with the memory of Blayne’s heat, the scent of her sweet, ocean breeze skin, and the unique flavor of her mouth that he craved like an addiction.

  She spun on him in a frenzy, launching into his arms and making him land hard against the countertop. His arm flung out, sending a pot crashing to the ground, but the commotion only seemed to excite her more.

  A desperation seemed to push her along as if they didn’t have the rest of their lives to love one another. There was nothing he’d rather do than answer every kiss, every bite, every tug with equal fervor. Cradling her face, he took command of her mouth, tasting, sipping, drinking her in as if he’d never have the chance again.

  She shoved his jacket from his shoulders then yanked his shirt from his pants. She had his fly open and the hard length of him in her hands before he could fully register the direction of her efforts.

  “Blayne. Fuck.”

  She squeezed him, stroking from the tip to the base, and his sight went white. There was no slowing the woman down when she got her mind set on something, and he’d learned a long time ago not to try. Besides, any ride with Blayne was a ride he wanted to be on. No matter how fast or slow.

  He slid his fingertips along her body, taking in every familiar curve and dip, knowing every sigh and every breath hitch before she gave it. He knew this woman.

  Knew her body, her heart, her mind, and her soul.

  He was beyond proud of what she’d accomplished and that he was able to be a part of it.

  His chest swelled with the love that had never died, had never wavered, and he yanked her up against him.

  She had to let him go and catch herself at his shoulders, wrapping her arms around him.

  “Stay,” he said.

  As her heated gaze held his in question, a few wisps of black hair fluttered around her face. She whispered, “If only I could.”

  She was the most beautiful woman in every way, and he didn’t think he could ever feel more passionately for her than in that moment.

  “I’ll always be here for you, Bean. Never leave you again.” His breathing labored. “You’re amazing.” His statement was half-growl, half-moan, as she rubbed her breasts against his chest. Trying to focus, he gave a small shake to his head. “I’m serious. Your mom, your dad would be so proud of you.”

  She stilled, her eyes glistening with the threat of tears.

  Setting her to her feet, he cupped her face again. “I didn’t mean to upset you, I—”

  “I love you,” she whispered. “I always have. Remember that. Okay?”

  His mind, heart, and soul tripped once more. Wondering if he’d misheard her, he just stared like he had on the front steps, afraid she was simply caught up in the excitement of the gala.

  He’d hoped, but he’d never let himself truly imagine that she’d ever forgive him for his royal fuck up. And even now, having heard her words again, the fear that he was wrong, that he’d mistaken her meaning, kept him silent.

  Finally, he found his tongue. His voice, hoarse with emotion, dragged past his lips and he demanded, “Say it again.”

  Her berry-painted lips spread into a grin but trembled with something else.

  “I love you.” She kissed his forehead. “I love you.” She kissed each brow. “But—”

  “I love you, too,” he cut her off.

  Wrapping her legs around his waist, she used his shoulders to lift her body until she was poised to take him inside her. “Don’t ever forget,” she whispered, worry clouding her eyes with something he couldn’t understand.

  His body on fire and his love burning brighter than ever before, he gave a fierce shake of his head, then rested his forehead against hers. “Never.”

  “Promise?” The uncertainty in her voice killed him as much as the waiting to feel her around him did.

  “I’m yours, Bean. And you’re mine.”

  “Yes.” Her answer was solid and sure, allowing his pulse to settle into the rhythm she’d set with her body.

  Two steps had her pressed up against the wall where he could find his bearings and move with her toward the pleasure they both wanted.

  His body tightened with every stroke, every touch. Her hands and lips were everywhere. She overwhelmed him, humbled him…she loved him.

  Reaching her peak, she moved faster, harder, grinding on him with a strength he’d always admired. Her heels dug into the backs of his thighs, her legs clamped around his hips like a vice, and on a groan, she sailed over the precipice.

  And he was right behind her. Side-by-side.

  Like he said.

  With passion he didn’t even try to subdue, he shouted her name as the wave of his orgasm slammed into him, measuring hers beat by beat.

  He didn’t understand how it was possible, but the only woman he’d ever loved, loved him once again. She was in his arms and in his life.

  And this time he wouldn’t fuck it up.

  Chapter 17

  Blayne would have laughed in the face of anyone who told her they could see hearts floating about her head, but with each step across the gala dance floor in Jamie’s arms, she swore, she could see the little pink shapes out of the corner of her eyes.

  As it turned out, honey was quite the aphrodisiac, and they’d yet had a chance to talk, but they had time. She wasn’t leaving until the morning.

  Another heart came into view. Or maybe she was high on life, or Jamie’s kiss, his touch, his love…

  “You look happy,” he whispered against her ear, sending a shiver up her spine.

  She raised a brow. “Don’t get cocky.”

  “Me? Never.” Feigning a look of innocence, he slapped his chest.

  “Truthfully? I can’t remember the last time I felt this good,” she confessed, though it was only partially true.

  Jamie winked, sending a thrill that raced along her nerve endings, reminding her she was quite naked under her dress. “I can. About fifteen minutes ago, as a matter of fact.” His tone was decidedly suggestive.

  “Fifteen minutes ago?” She tapped her chin. “I’m confused.”

  On a low grumble, he gathered her close to s
how her, beyond a shadow of a doubt, exactly what he was talking about.

  The hard length of him burned through his tuxedo pants and her dress as if nothing separated them at all. There was no getting enough of him.

  Never was.

  Which was why she’d tried with such determination and persistence. Larkin once joked about her never having a relationship longer the length of a man’s dick, and she was right. But that was only because Blayne had never found anything interesting beyond that point.

  Except with Jamie.

  Always Jamie.

  Claire glided up, gorgeous in an ice blue, floor-length strapless dress that set off a tiny waist that defied physics and would entice even the most steadfast man.

  Stepping between Jamie and her friend, she teased, “Don’t you be coming up here, seducing my man with those big blue eyes and rockin’ bod, my friend.”

  A decidedly unladylike guffaw escaped Claire’s lips, and she slapped her gloved fingers over them. Rolling her eyes, she said, “Knock it off.” She jabbed a thumb at Jamie. “This one’s never had eyes for anyone but you, even when he was propositioned with every possible temptation in every possible manner down at the rink a couple weeks ago.”

  Town gossip spread fast and the Van Buren Roller Beauties were a gorgeous bunch. So much so that Blayne joked about switching teams more than once. But they were a crazy lot, too. When it came to those ladies—men were safer.

  But knowing he went looking for her warmed her in an unexpected way. She refused to look at him for fear that he’d see just how hopelessly, head-over-ass in love she really was. For fuck’s sake. She literally crossed an ocean for the man.

  “Anyway, I was in the house and your phone kept ringing. I answered. Your sister’s been trying to get a hold of you. Something with your dad?” Claire’s gaze wavered in concern.

  Fear twisted in her stomach. If Emma was calling, and it had to be Emma because their older sister, Ruby, had barely spoken ten sentences to her since she’d left, she must have news.

  Which also meant it was time she and Jamie had that talk. No more interruptions, no more distractions.

  “Thanks, Claire. I’ll go call her right away, just give me a minute with Jamie.”

  “He’ll have to wait, she’s waiting on the line.”

  Jamie moved to go with her. “I can come with you.”

  “No.” She patted his chest. “Go find Ryker, have a drink. I’ll find out what’s going on, then come find you.”

  “Are you sure? I’m here if you need me.” His gaze showered love on her in a way she’d never tire of.

  With a smile, she nodded. “I’m fine. Go. We’ll have another honey tasting when I’m through.” She winked.

  His eyes dilated immediately, and he stepped toward her.

  Throwing both hands up, she laughed. “Go!”

  “Fine. But that wasn’t fair.”

  She gave him a saucy grin. “And you love it.” Sliding her arm through Claire’s, she headed toward the house.

  “There’s a honey tasting?”

  Blayne laughed. “I’ll explain later. Thanks for letting me know about the call.”

  Claire nodded. “Of course. I was worried since the same number kept calling, otherwise I wouldn’t have bothered you on such a special night.”

  “It really has turned out to be magical, hasn’t it?” She looked across the lawn. Now that the sun had dropped below the trees west of the town, the cape was blanketed in the velvet of night but bedazzled with strings and strings of white globe lights. Music was in the air, the waves crashed off the shore, the scent of the ocean mingled with the sweet and savory foods along the perimeter of the dance floor.

  And to top it off, Jamie had shared the donor report to start, and it was beyond anything she’d ever imagined.

  All the dreams she never dared to dream just might come true.

  Turning to Claire, she nodded toward the dance floor. “Go dance. I know there’s no shortage of Van Buren men out there just itching to get a little attention from the sex-pot Claire Adams.”

  Claire’s eyes grew wide then narrowed. “You’re as awful as you’ve ever been. I like it.” On a laugh, she made her way to the party.

  Blayne hesitated, worried about how she was going to tell Jamie, worried about what news her sister could possibly have for her.

  Slipping her heels off at the door, she walked barefoot into the large kitchen to settle in at the island, comforted by Puzzle’s purring, furry presence as the cat jumped to the table top and rubbed his whiskered face against her arm.

  Arranging her silver mermaid skirt to accommodate the stool, she picked up the phone. It was 2 a.m. in Ireland, so either it was important, or her sister was bored. She’d been calling Blayne all hours of the day and night since she’d learned how to use a phone.

  “Blayne?” Emma’s whisper floated across the line.

  “Em, I’m here. What’s up? Why are you awake?”

  “I was waiting to call you until Ruby fell asleep. She didn’t want me to bother you.”

  “Typical.” She rolled her eyes. Her older sister would probably rather not claim the relation at all if she could help it. “What’s so important that you couldn’t tell me once I got in? I’m leaving tomorrow.”

  “Da fell and broke his hip.”

  Blayne straightened in her stool. “What? When, how…I mean.”

  “He was pruning the ivy along the front of the house and fell from the ladder. It’s pretty bad. He’s having surgery tomorrow. A hip replacement.”

  Hip replacement? That’s what happened to old people, grandparents, not her father. Noah MacCaffrey was a bull of a man. Big, strong, and more capable than anyone she’d ever known.

  Hell, he raised three daughters and a son all on his own after their ma had passed.

  He was a saint.

  He was all they had.

  And she’d left him.

  Tears stung behind her lids and she ached with shame. “Is he going to be okay? Can he walk?” Her voice rose with each word.

  “Calm down. He’s okay. It’s just…I knew you’d want to know. There’s no way to get you here earlier at this point, so you’ll miss being here to see him when he gets out of recovery. But I wanted you to be prepared.” Emma’s voice wavered.

  She swallowed hard. She walked toward the front of the house, to the large window that overlooked the party. Searching through all the townspeople, she spotted the broad, steadfast shoulders of the man she adored. He was laughing, enjoying a toast with Ryker if the tap of their glasses was any indication. Her heart swelled with love and squeezed with agony at the same time.

  The intensity of it all was an impossibility, and she grabbed a chair for support. Everything was here, but everything was also in Ireland.

  She’d finally found a love that was ready for forever, but her father deserved more from her than a get-well card, and there was no telling how long he’d need her to be there.

  Sometimes the universe spoke—it was about time she listened to the needs of her family instead of her own desires.

  This was the true bitch of karma.

  “Of course. I’m coming home, Em.”

  Jay accepted the glowing praise from Ryker as they toasted once more to a successful launch. The gala was still in full swing. He’d had some of the hottest sex in his life amongst the greatest edible gift of nature—apart from Blayne, that was.

  He grinned.

  Ryker tossed back his drink. “What’s that look for? I’m getting a little uncomfortable if it’s directed at me. I mean, I know we’re close, but I’m a married man.”

  “I’m gonna ask her, and I want you to be my best man.”

  Ryker slowly lowered his glass from his lips. “Are you fuckin’ with me?”

  “No. And I’m not fuckin’ this up again. I let her go once and lost ten years with an amazing woman. I refuse to lose another second.”

  “That’s the smartest thing you’ve said since returning to the
Cape.” Ryker said.

  Shaking his head, Jay shook him off. “Please, I outlined a strategy for a donor program that has already accepted enough in gifts to keep the center in the black for the next five years.”

  His buddy dipped his dark head in agreement, then accepted two more glasses of Scotch from a passing waiter and handed one to Jay.

  “Damn right. And yet this proposal is still the smartest damn thing you’ve ever said.”

  “You approve?”

  Ryker’s dark brows furrowed. “She’s family.”

  “You yell at her all the time.” Jay laughed.

  “Because she’s a pain in the ass. And we wouldn’t have her any other way. Do you know she never left Larkin’s side when Archer died? She stayed, she pushed, she persisted. Hell, when Larkin would have run from me, Blayne encouraged her to stay and fight. She’s changed our lives.”

  They clinked glasses then sipped from the rims. “Besides, she’s your pain in the ass, and she suits you.”

  They turned to see the object of their conversation approaching them from the house, and Jay raised his glass to her. “Yeah, she does.”

  “Now you need to convince her to stay.”

  “Wait, what?” He wanted to question Ryker further, but he didn’t get the returning grin or wink from her as he’d expected.

  “Fuck.”

  Ryker followed his gaze. “What happened?”

  “I don’t know, but the look on her face tells me it isn’t good news. Something’s happened in Ireland.”

  His buddy clapped him on the back again. “Then you’ll help her through it.”

  Jay threw Ryker a look of bewilderment. “Help Blayne? Are you crazy? When she’s vulnerable, she pushes people away as if her life depends on the isolation.”

  He tried to decipher the resigned set of her expression. “God damn fucking hell,” Jay whispered fiercely as he held the engagement ring inside his jacket pocket like a lifeline. Everything he ever wanted was going to come together in this great culmination of fate tonight, but the scared and reserved look in the love of his life’s eyes had warning bells clanging in his head.