A Sea of Smoke_A Dark Romance

by Karen Lynn

  KRISTEN/LOGAN

  She was alone in bed when the text alert came in, Logan was in the living room. She had no idea what he was doing, but it didn’t matter. The alleged business meetings that had slowed down after the encounter with Gina in the cafe were picking up again. Since she found herself in a constant state of exhaustion, and unwilling to comply with his frequent sexual demands, she really didn’t give a damn. In fact, she relished the solitude.

  When she saw the text from Jake, Kristen immediately burst into tears, dropping the phone. Whether they were tears of joy for his success or because she had been thinking about him more and more, remained a mystery.

  Unable to resist, she typed a response:

  I'm so happy for you.

  She wanted desperately to ask him when he returned to New York City, how his mother was, and why he never texted or called while he was away. Why he had given up on her. But she didn't have the nerve. It was obvious he stopped loving her, and they both had moved on.

  Curling up on the bed, she sucked in her breath, hoping he would write back.

  When Logan came in a while later, she jammed the phone under her pillow and pretended to be asleep.

  The muffled text alert broke the silence, but she refused to budge.

  “Your phone is beeping,” Logan whispered in her ear.

  Stirring, she yawned, reached under her pillow, muted it, and shoved it back. Not bothering to acknowledge him, she plopped back down.

  “Who was it?” The buzz from the pain killers and wine spread a comforting warmth throughout his body. He slowly placed an arm over her body, pulling her closer.

  “Nobody,” she whispered in a dreamy voice, then turned to kiss him.

  “What's this about?” he returned her kiss with a tender one.

  “I love you.” The sadness in her eyes was hidden by the darkness.

  “I thought you hated me?”

  “I can't hate you, Logan. That's the problem, and you know it.” She pulled his hand to her stomach, holding it there while the baby threw a violent kicking tantrum.

  Surprised by her response, he grinned, closed his eyes, and let her take control.

  CHAPTER 3

  SATURDAY, WEEK 4

  JAKE

  Eleven days since he weakened and texted Kristen. He wasn't expecting her to respond. When she did, he had to muster up all the willpower available to discontinue the conversation. Otherwise it would’ve been a disastrous mistake.

  He was back at work again after another long, unproductive day. His head was too messed up to paint. He couldn't stop wondering how she was doing. He wanted to tell her he found the rings, ask her why she never sold them, why she left all her stuff, why she broke his heart. His mind wasn't on work.

  When he saw the tall brunette smiling at him, he had to blink. She looked vaguely familiar, but he couldn't place her.

  “Jake, you don't remember me, do you?” she asked, her voice deep and sultry with a slight unrecognizable accent. Leaning in as close as she could over the bar, he couldn’t avoid her cleavage. Or the tantalizing aroma of her perfume. After assessing her further, all he could offer was an embarrassed shrug.

  “Okay, I'll help you. I'm Tia, Marty's cousin.” Her face lit up as she laughed and extended her hand to him.

  Stunned, Jake’s eyes widened, a bashful grin spreading across his face when he accepted her hand. “Oh yeah. I remember now. How's Marty doing?” He looked around, his eyes suddenly darkening.

  “She's okay. I wanted her to come, but she's still really bummed about Ray.” A hint of sadness quickly faded to excitement as she fluttered her long black eyelashes. “You look good!”

  He hated to admit it—she was beautiful. Taking a deep breath, “So do you. Want a beer or something?”

  “Sure, thanks.” She reached for her money but he lightly pushed her hand away. Her eyes met his, they were a dark, hypnotic, liquid brown. She held his gaze without blinking until he looked down. “I'll catch you later.” Unexpectedly flustered, he turned to take care of customers.

  “Not bad.” Ben shoved money into the cash register behind him.

  Jake sighed, disheartened. Just what I need. I’m not ready for another let down.

  “Why don't you take a shot?”

  Ben was a good-looking guy, good build, long, light brown hair and nice features. Even though he was short next to him, Jake was sure she would go for him.

  “I don't think so.” Ben laughed, motioning toward the entrance to the dance floor. Jake turned his head, taking in Tia, the vision of a perfect statue, propped against the wall watching him. She didn’t blink or bother to hide the dazzling smile plastered across her face.

  * * *

  The light streaming into the room took a while to adjust to. With a loud yawn, Jake stirred, stretching lazily. Pulling himself up, his eyes fell upon her. His head was still in a fog, and it took a few minutes before recognition set in.

  “Hey.” As he looked down at her, his expression grew more quizzical. Then it dawned on him, and his eyes darted down to his naked body.

  “Well, you were really out of it!” Tia was wide awake and unabashedly naked.

  Jake frowned, not even attempting to clear the blurry images in his head. “I guess I was.” He grinned, looking around at the unfamiliar surroundings.

  “My place. Your idea. Don't worry, my roommate is away for the weekend.” She bent over, kissing him, her silky hair brushing gently against his skin.

  He rubbed his eyes, unnerved that he couldn't recall how he got there. Getting so wasted is becoming a royal pain in the ass. His face filled with doubt and sadness.

  “Don't worry, you didn't do anything crazy. It was pretty amazing, actually. Even if you don't remember it.” Her eyes were mischievous as her lips wandered down to his chest. Jake felt his nervous tension decreasing, his hands exploring her body as she hovered over him.

  She wasn't about to give up, even though she sensed his mind was in a faraway place.

  After a few seconds he forgot all of his doubts and allowed his desire to take over. With his fingers entwined in her hair, he pulled her down to meet him.

  MONDAY

  KRISTEN/LOGAN

  Logan wouldn't let up about the text message—he was sure it was Jake, and it was a big bruise to his ego. They were getting ready to shop for nursery furniture.

  “So, who texted you the other night? I thought we agreed to be honest from now on.”

  Stunned, she stopped brushing her hair to look at him. “Like you were about Gina?”

  “I am now, that's what matters.” He was behind her, his arms around her chest, pulling her close.

  “I can't believe you're still obsessing about that! It was last week!” She wanted to change the subject, but the tautness of his face told her he wasn't about to let go. “Who do you think it was, Logan?”

  “Hmm. Let me think…Jake?” His teeth sank into her neck.

  “Ouch, Logan!” When she tried to pull away, he restrained her.

  “I won't stop until you admit it,” he murmured between hard bites.

  “Okay, it was! It was just an art show announcement, that's it!”

  He couldn't hide the surprise in his face. “In New York?”

  That savage couldn’t be in Miami!

  Despite his efforts, his breaths were growing rapid and fierce.

  “Yes. Wait…you're not jealous, are you?” She grinned, glancing at her big belly.

  “Nope. Not at all.” He grinned back, a devilish look in his eyes. “Let's go, before I change my mind.” He smacked her butt.

  Why hasn’t that loser disappeared for good yet?

  A sudden recollection flashed in his mind. “Was this the first time he contacted you since you…” He froze, catching himself before he screwed up. “—we left New York?”

  Caught off guard, she hesitated, seeking the right answer.

  Logan picked up on it immediately. “When did he contact you, Krissy? How many times?” His eyes
darkened, narrowing in suspicion.

  “The day we were leaving.” She held onto a deep breath, hoping he wouldn't pursue it.

  “Really! About what?” The heat of his body seeped into hers, but his eyes were ice cold.

  “Nothing... if I heard from Ray. He couldn't reach him—I thought we're leaving!”

  “What did you tell him, Kristen?” he held onto her face.

  “What do you think, Logan? I told him I never spoke to Ray.” She pulled out of his hands.

  Logan nodded, his eyes brightening. “Good girl. Remember your promise?” His hands fell to her arms.

  “Logan, what is wrong with you?” She tried to break free, but his fingers dug into her flesh. “Of course I remember. Don't you trust me?” Her eyes began to water from the pain. “Stop it!”

  He released her, but his eyes never left her face. At that moment, she told herself to let it go. Whatever he had done in New York, whoever it involved, she was better off not knowing. It was the only way she could survive the pregnancy.

  “I do, Krissy, so don't betray me. Remember our bond. Don't break it. Let's get baby stuff.” He smiled, taking her hand.

  Cramming her eyes shut, she drew in painful gulps of air and clung to the table to steady herself. A silent prayer crossed her mind as she searched for the strength to make it through the rest of the day.

  CHAPTER 4

  SATURDAY, WEEK 5

  JAKE

  It was a strange thing—he'd never asked for Tia's number, and she never offered. The sex had been hot, but non-committal. All week he'd purposely stayed busy with painting, gallery shows, and the club. When Kristen's image invaded his thoughts, he found himself comparing the two. They were total opposites. Tia younger, an exotic beauty with big brown eyes, tan, tall, and very slender. It was evident to him her wild streak controlled her actions. She was only out for a good time, and definitely trouble.

  Then there was Kristen, the beautiful lioness. He smiled remembering her delicate rosy complexion, smoldering yellow-green eyes that whispered the story of every fleeting emotion. Her thick, fiery copper hair, voluptuous body, vibrant smile that lit up the room. Her passionate, stubborn streak, childlike contagious laughter, delicious lips…

  Fuck! If I don’t wipe her out of my mind, I’ll go crazy!

  Back at the club he vowed not to get drunk, frightened by a repeat performance of the previous week. He had to stay in control.

  Things were moving along smoothly until Marty and Tia appeared. Tia ran up to him, planting her lips on his. Pulling back with a shy look on his face, Jake found himself emotionally charged when Marty approached. It was the first time he'd seen her since Ray's disappearance.

  “Jake, nice to see you.” Marty paused to wipe away tears misting her eyes. “Have you spoken to Kristen?”

  Tia, busy downing her free beer, surveyed the crowd a few feet away. Jake self-consciously pushed his hair back. “No. Why should I?” His voice was so soft, he couldn’t determine if Marty heard him. He needed to tell her how sorry he was about Ray. It was impossible.

  Marty could see the pain that still burned in his eyes, the same pain she felt whenever Ray's name was mentioned. “That's too bad, Jake, I really thought you two were made for each other, in a crazy kinda way.”

  Jake blinked, his anxiety increasing. This was one conversation he never expected to have. “Yeah… well, that's life I guess. She's a married woman.”

  “Unfortunately.” Marty cringed, squeezing her eyes shut to block out the thought. “They just dropped the investigation, like he didn't exist.”

  “I know. I'm really sorry.” He touched her arm just as Tia bounced back into view.

  Marty shook her head, tears filling her eyes. “Me too. Hey, here's my number if you hear anything or want to talk about Kristen.” She shoved a post-it into his hand.

  As an afterthought, she brought her lips close to his ear. “By the way, do you know anything about Marcus?”

  Jake couldn't hide his surprise. Why would I want to talk to her about Kristen? Lost in thought, he did a double-take when her question sunk in. “Ray’s brother? He’s still in the military last I heard. Why?”

  Tia grabbed Marty’s arm, anxious to steer her to the dance floor. “Just wondering. His sister mentioned him. Be careful,” Marty whispered in his ear, snapping a glance at Tia.

  He stood watching them for a minute, wondering who she was warning him about, then shook it off as a thirsty crowd converged on the bar.

  SUNDAY

  JAKE

  Once he saw Tia, Jake knew it was all over for him. There was no way he wouldn't take her home. Aware of her powers, she used them well, running up to him to confidently link her arm through his just as he prepared to leave with Ben. Marty looked on with a gloomy expression, then got into her car and drove home alone.

  His hesitance about bringing Tia to his place disappeared as soon as she slid next to him in his truck. She teased him, her hand falling to his knee, inching higher until it rested by his crotch.

  I need her, it’s the only way I can get Kristen out of my mind—at least for a while.

  Tia wasn't looking for any type of commitment, just pleasure. For as long as it lasted, he was her conquest. As long as he didn't let her under his skin, she would be his as well.

  They spent hours having sex before finally passing out just as the sun began to rise. When he finally woke up it was almost 3:00 pm. He found her looking down at him with curiosity.

  “Whose clothes are those in your closet?” She wrinkled her nose, an obvious gesture of disdain.

  At first Jake was perplexed, then it occurred to him. There was no way he was going to discuss Kristen or any of his issues with Tia. Not now, not ever.

  She laughed, looking at him like he was insane. “Don't tell me that's still her stuff?”

  “That's not your business, Tia!” On impulse, he pushed her off of him. Almost toppling to the floor from the impact, she managed to grab onto the blanket to keep her balance. “Why don't you get dressed.” It was more of an order than a suggestion, his voice cold as he quickly stood to put on his underwear.

  She came behind him, her arms fastening around his waist, her skin flush against his. Aroused despite his resistance, he let her roam his body, then whirled her around, throwing her back onto the bed.

  Why not make the most of it?

  He would show her he wasn't a joke, and then she could leave.

  LOGAN/KRISTEN

  “Where are you going?” She watched while Logan rushed to finish dressing.

  “I have to go to the office for a while.” He didn’t waste a second, planting a quick kiss on her cheek.

  “I thought you were going to help me with the nursery. Why can't you work here?”

  The furniture had been delivered a few hours earlier and Kristen was anxious to set it up with the bedding and accessories. She tried to hide her disappointment, but it was impossible. He didn’t even bother to look back at her. She followed him to the door, his unusual rush creating growing suspicion in her.

  “I'll be back in a few hours.” He dashed out, barely giving her a weak wave.

  She stood pouting, remembering what happened the last time he said that. Going to the refrigerator, she fought the desire to open a beer.

  Being pregnant sucks!

  Depressed and lonely, she found herself calling Marty.

  For a few seconds, Marty was speechless, then she could hear the heartache in her voice. “I saw Jake last night at the club.”

  Kristen couldn’t breathe. In the back of her mind, she was hoping Jake would come up in conversation, but once she heard his name she felt miserable. “What were you doing there? Who'd you go with?”

  “Tia finally got me to go with her.”

  Kristen felt the tears sliding down her face.

  Of all the women in New York City, why Tia?

  “Oh... are they together?”

  “No! Kris, I know he still loves you. He could hardly stand
talking about you. But Tia…she goes after what she wants…”

  “What are you saying exactly? Are they dating?” Kristen jammed her knuckles into her mouth, biting down hard to keep from sobbing out loud.

  When am I going to get over him?

  “No, it’s not like that! Tia doesn't date. I'm sure it’s just sex.” Hearing Kristen's sobs, she rushed to change the subject. “How's the pregnancy going? Did you find out the gender yet?”

  Kristen took desperate, jagged breaths, finally answering, “It’s a boy. Seven more weeks.” The thought should've enlightened her, instead her world was turning blacker by the second.

  “A boy! Do you have a name yet? Did you ever tell Jake?”

  “Jake? No, why would he care?”

  “Stop it, Kris, you know why. What if it's his, how will he feel? You should give him a chance.”

  “He had his chance, Marty. He called one time after he left New York, then disappeared. If he'd been around, we'd still be together.”

  “Kristen, you know that's not true, not with Logan around. Will you tell him after he's born at least? What if he doesn't look like Logan, you know, if he's darker? It’s not like it would be hard to tell. They look nothing alike.”

  “Marty, why are you doing this to me? You wanted him with Tia, now he is!”

  Marty ignored her comment. “What if I tell him, Kris?”

  “Don't you dare!” I secretly want Marty to tell him. But why? It would just complicate everything. It doesn’t make sense.

  “I just miss Ray so much, I feel so helpless. They gave up the investigation just like that. It's so unfair.” Marty began to cry.

  Kristen froze, horrified. “I'm so sorry.” What can I say, find someone else? How can I talk?

  It seemed like the call would never end. When it did, Kristen felt much worse than before she called her. Making a desperate search through the photos on her cellphone, her heart stopped when she reached the ones of Jake.