Haunting Melody

by Mackenzie Reed

  He nodded, glanced at his watch, and smiled. “She should be here anytime now. I can't wait for you guys to meet.” Right after the words left his mouth, he heard the gate buzz. Jumping up from his chair, he rushed to the phone and picked it up.

  “Hello.”

  “Hi, handsome. Care to open this damn gate and let me in?”

  He grinned. “What's the magic word?” he teased.

  “Sex,” she replied, her voice tinged with amusement.

  He threw back his head and laughed, drawing his parent's attention. He mouthed, “It's Devra,” and they smiled and nodded.

  “I guess that's good enough.” He hit the button. “I have a surprise for you when you get to the house.”

  “Mmm … I hope it's hard and ready. I'm dying for some fun in the sack.” Her sultry tone brought his cock to attention. Shit! Not something he wanted his parents to see.

  “Devra, my…” he stopped when he realized she was no longer at the intercom. He turned and shrugged. “I guess I'll tell her at the door.” Quickly he left the kitchen, eager to see his lover, his mate. Just as he opened the door, she was climbing the steps, a sultry come-hither look on her face.

  Damn! He shifted his feet, hoping to ease the sudden tightness of his jeans.

  “Hello, lover.” She started unbuttoning her blouse, revealing a white sheer lace bra. He swallowed hard, and watched mesmerized as her nimble pink-painted fingers slid each pearl button from its silky hole. Oh yeah … take it off…

  A throat clearing behind him snapped him back to the present. Joshua looked at Devra who was wide-eyed and clutching her blouse together, a questioning look on her face, and smiled crookedly. Winking, Joshua reached for her hand and gently but firmly tugged her inside.

  “Come in and meet my parents.”

  Chapter Fifteen

  She hastily buttoned her blouse and flashed him a look of retribution. He had the nerve to wink.

  Why didn't you tell me your parents were here, you jerk? Now they're going to think I'm a sex-crazed nympho.

  He laughed in her mind. They know all about you, baby.

  She groaned silently. Oh great! What a first impression. They hear me ask their son if he wants to fuck. Great, Devra! Just great.

  “Come on.” Joshua put his arm around her drawing her close to his side. He kissed her temple and moved to her ear. “I'll fuck you later.”

  She shivered with need. She looked over at him and found him staring at her with a heavy-lidded, lust-filled gaze. “Stop it,” she whispered.

  “Joshua, stop embarrassing the poor girl and bring her in. I'm anxious to meet the woman who has stolen my baby's heart.”

  “Yes, Mother.”

  Devra turned toward the feminine voice and found herself face-to-face with his parents. His father was a tall, well-built man with dark hair graying at the temples and a welcome twinkle in his eyes. She smiled in return and relaxed just a fraction. “Hi, I'm Devra.” She stuck out her hand and he took it. But, instead of shaking it, he brought her hand to his lips and kissed it.

  “I am very pleased to meet you, Devra. I'm Jonathon and this lovely lady is my wife, Elizabeth.”

  Devra turned to Elizabeth and smiled. “Nice to meet you, Elizabeth.”

  Without warning, Devra found herself pulled out of Joshua's arms and into the loving arms of his mother. Love. That's what Elizabeth's embrace brought to mind. She found herself returning the affectionate hug and enjoying it.

  Finally his mother eased up and dropped her arms, stepping back to stand beside her husband.

  Joshua cleared his throat. “Well, now that the introductions are made, what do you say we let Devra freshen up and then we'll make some lunch.”

  Everyone agreed and went their separate ways. She headed up the steps with Joshua right behind her. She glanced over her shoulder and found his gaze on her ass. She decided to torture him a bit, payback for the little scene at the door. The next step she took, Devra added a bit more sway and grinned when she heard him groan.

  She'd just reached the top of the stairs when Joshua turned her in his arms, pressed her back against the wall, and gave her a kiss that said it all. He wanted her and nothing was going to stop him from taking her. Her hands slid up his chest, over his shoulders and into his soft hair. She ripped the ponytail holder from his hair, tossed it away, running her fingers through his hair.

  His cock brushed against her damp, needy place in a steady rhythm meant to drive her out of her mind. Her panties were soaked and her clit pulsed with the need for release. If he kept moving against her like that it wouldn't be long before she came. Tightening her legs around his waist, she moved her hips in time with his.

  Just when she thought she was going to explode, he tore his mouth from hers, and moved to her neck, both of them panting heavily. “I want you. Now.” One hand moved from her body to cover her breast. He palmed her breast his thumb, rasping against her beaded nipple. “God, you feel so good. I love to feel your legs wrapped around me, holding me deep. And when you come, your eyes turn dark green, your swollen channel grips me tight like a velvet glove and then you explode.” His lips and tongue caressed her as he nipped the main artery, sending tiny tremors straight to her center.

  She gripped his hair tighter, her lower body pressing tightly to his. “Do it. Right here, right now.” She didn't care that his parents could walk up the stairs at any minute and catch them. All that mattered was his cock inside her, thrusting deep and hard filling her, taking her up and over the top. She wanted to ride him hard.

  Suddenly they were moving to the bedroom. He kicked the door closed and pushed her against the wall. She unhooked her ankles and slid off his body to stand. His fingers jerked open the button of her pants, then slid the zipper down and eased the pants down her hips and off.

  She reached out and grabbed his waistband, unbuttoning and unzipping his jeans to get to his cock. Impatience swirled around them, neither of them able to wait any longer. It didn't matter that they'd had sex that morning, they were both hungry and in need. He took over, shoving his pants far enough down his legs to be out of the way, and then his hand caressed her thigh and lifted it to wrap around his leg.

  “Joshua, now…” She felt the tip of his cock against her vagina and cried out. He kissed her lips and then thrust deep. They groaned in unison, and held perfectly still for a moment wanting to feel the exquisite bite of the pressure that was building inside them.

  Somehow her hands found their way around his neck and she pulled his mouth down to hers and took him in a kiss meant to drive him out of his mind. She wanted him to lose control, to fuck her long, hard and deep like there was no tomorrow.

  He started moving and she couldn't breathe. His cock was so thick and hard it filled her, touching that spot deep inside that sent her stumbling over the edge. She screamed her release and heard Joshua's shout as he followed right behind her. He held her close until the last tremor faded.

  “God, that was good.” His chest heaved and his warm breath fluttered against her neck. “I think I'm dead. You've finally killed me, baby.”

  “You don't feel dead to me, lover.” She wiggled her hips and laughed when his hands clamped down on her hips holding her still.

  “Baby, if you keep that up, I won't be able to play tonight much less spend time with my parents.” He squeezed her lovingly and then slid his cock out. He raised her chin and kissed her swollen lips softly. “Let's take a shower.”

  “Okay.” She grinned and knew it was going to be long and orgasmic.

  Chapter Sixteen

  Dinner turned out to be fun and enjoyable as they laughed and ate their fill. Devra fell in love with Jonathon and Elizabeth instantly. Jonathon was like a big old bear, gruff and charming, and Elizabeth reminded Devra so much of her mother it filled her heart with peace and a sense of warmth and home. Once dinner was over and the dishes were cleared, everyone went their separate ways to get dressed. The hour was growing late and it was nearly time to head over to
Michael's for Joshua's performance.

  They decided to ride together to the performance, and his parents were thrilled to learn that Roarke and Melissa would be there, and that Damon might show up too. Joshua watched the light dim in her eyes at the mention of Damon's name.

  I told you, love that he's no longer a threat. He wants to come and apologize to you.

  Why?

  He feels bad for what he did to you. Joshua silently wondered if that was the reason for Damon's impromptu visit in the parking garage today. Granted, in doing so Damon had broken his word to Joshua.

  Joshua, I really don't relish the idea of being in the same room with Damon, much less having him apologize for what he did. I don't like him. Not at all.

  I know you don't, baby, and I promise you won't be alone with him. I will be there right beside you.

  Devra placed her hand atop his closed fist and gently squeezed. All right. But I still don't like it.

  That's my girl. He tilted her head and placed his lips on hers giving her the lightest of kisses.

  Let's go.

  They arrived at Michael's and Joshua led them inside and straight to a big table up front. Roarke and his wife, Melissa, were already seated and waiting. Joshua made the introductions and then motioned everyone to sit. After they were seated and ordered drinks, they sat back and enjoyed the ambiance of the place. A lone sax pierced the quietness and everyone sat back to listen. Out from behind the curtain stepped a tall, lanky black man, his lips wrapped around the end of the saxophone. His music soothed the place, peace flooding the hearts and minds of those in the lounge.

  “Do you know him? I've heard him play before.” Devra asked Joshua. Her sweet warm breath tickled his ear.

  “Yes, his name is Dax. He's a friend of mine.” His glance returned to the stage and he nodded at Dax, receiving a slight nod in return.

  He put his arm around Devra and pulled her close to his side, loving the feel of having her so close. He held his breath when she placed her hand high on his thigh. His cock twitched. He waited to see what she would do and when a few minutes went by and nothing, he turned his attention back to the stage.

  The song ended and Dax broke into another. Joshua smiled. This was one they had written together, years ago. His arm tightened around Devra as he relaxed in his chair. He nearly jumped out of his skin when her fingers started tracing little circles on his jean-clad thigh. Already in a semi-aroused state, his cock twitched again. He glanced at her out of the corner of his eye, but found her attention focused solely on Dax.

  He mentally shrugged. Maybe she was just touching him. He picked up his glass and took a sip. He leaned forward a bit to set it on the table and jerked, his gaze zeroing in on Devra. That little minx had her hand on his erection and was squeezing it softly, lovingly.

  You're playing with fire, my love. Would you like me to return the caresses in your mind? Want to have an orgasm right here in front of my parents?

  He nearly laughed aloud when she jerked her hand from his lap and placed it back in hers.

  The thunder of applause brought him back. It was his turn to play. He turned, kissed her on the lips and whispered, “I'll be back.”

  * * * *

  Breathlessly, Devra watched him walk away, enjoying the way his jeans cupped his ass. She licked her lips. God, she would love to take a bite out of his sexy ass. A tinkling of laughter beside her drew her attention.

  She felt the heat in her cheeks when she realized his mother was looking at her with an all-knowing look. Oh, shit! That's just great. She'd got caught gawking at the woman's son's ass. Now what was she supposed to say? Shrugging, she decided to hell with it.

  “What can I say? He's got a sexy ass.”

  “I know, dear. It runs in the family.”

  Everyone at the table laughed and she found herself laughing along with them. He played his first note and she turned to him, all her attention now on him and his music. Joshua looked at her and smiled.

  I forgot to tell you that this will be my last public performance.

  What are you talking about?

  Since I have you, I no longer feel the hunger or the desire to feed off these people. I only need you.

  But … but…

  Oh, I'll still play for you, love. Privately. Very privately. The smile on his face turned wolfish.

  Devra blew him a kiss and sat back to enjoy the rest of the show.

  In the midst of his third song, Devra felt the hairs on her neck stand up. She turned in time to see Damon slip into Joshua's seat.

  He greeted everyone at the table before turning to her. “Hello, Devra.”

  “Damon.”

  She focused back on Joshua and hoped no one at the table could feel the unbearable tension that radiated between her and Damon.

  She felt a hand cover hers in her lap and looked down to find Elizabeth's hand covering her tightly clenched ones. She hadn't even known she was doing it. With a grateful sigh, she unclenched one of her hands and clasped Elizabeth's like a lifeline. For the rest of the evening while Joshua played, the two women held hands.

  He finished playing, the last note lingering in the air. He took his bows and left the stage heading straight for them. Damon stood ready to excuse himself and was stopped by Joshua.

  “I think we need to talk.”

  Damon inclined his head. “Okay. Let's go.”

  Joshua held out his hand to Devra. “Come here, honey.”

  The three of them left the table and walked to the door stepping outside. Once outside Joshua let go of Devra's hand and turned to Damon.

  “You lied to me, Damon. Devra tells me you were waiting for her by her car.”

  “I was there to apologize. Nothing more. Unfortunately your woman took off like a frightened rabbit and didn't give me a chance.”

  “I warned you not to see Devra alone. Remember? You agreed with me. And now I find out that you lied to me. You've betrayed my trust and that pisses me off. I should kick your ass right here, right now.” He made a move toward Damon but was stopped by Devra's hand on his arm.

  “Joshua don't. Please. It's not worth it. Let's just let him say he's sorry and then he can get the hell out of here and do whatever he wants.”

  Joshua said nothing. He simply stood there, quiet and stoic.

  “Please,” she whispered. “Don't let him ruin this perfect evening. Let it go.”

  Joshua looked at Damon then turned to Devra. “You are a wise and beautiful woman. Do you know that?”

  She sniffed and grinned. “Yeah … well … don't you forget it.”

  “I have a feeling you won't let me.”

  Joshua turned his attention to Damon. “Say your piece and then leave.”

  “Devra, I am truly sorry for what I did to you. I was wrong to violate another's mate and have probably lost his friendship because of my stupidity.”

  Devra felt sorry for Damon. So for that reason she forgave him. But with a warning. “I accept your apology. But, know this. If you ever try that again, I will kick your ass myself.”

  Damon bowed to her. “I understand.”

  The three of them once more entered Michael's, and Damon immediately excused himself. They turned to watch him walk over to the bar and whisper in a redhead's ear. Her eyes lit up and she nodded. Damon took her hand and they left.

  “That boy needs a woman of his own.” Jonathon groused. “He's played for far too long and soon it's going to be too late.”

  Curiosity got the better of her. “What do you mean it will be too late?”

  Silence followed her question. She watched in frustration as they all exchanged a look.

  The suspense was killing her. “What did you mean when you said it would be too late, Jonathon? Too late for what?” She knew her tone was exasperated and she probably sounded like a petulant child. But, dammit, she wanted answers.

  Joshua took her hand. “Remember I told you that when we find our mate, we no longer needed a host of donors for sustenance?” She nodd
ed.

  “Damon is changing—he's not quite himself anymore. The longer it takes for him to find his mate, the worse it will become. Soon, he won't find enough women to sustain him and he…” he trailed off and shrugged. She looked into his eyes and saw the despair and concern for his friend.

  She took his hand and held it between hers. “He'll what?” she asked softly.

  His whispered, tortured words were barely audible “He'll die.”

  Silence surrounded the table as each man there wrapped an arm around his mate and pulled her close. Devra laid her head on his chest and thanked her lucky stars that they'd found each other.

  She raised her head and looking into Joshua's eyes she whispered, “I love you, Joshua.”

  His eyes lit up with an inner fire that radiated between them. “You sure picked a hell of a time to tell me that, baby.” He leaned close and kissed her hard.

  I love you, too.

  The rest of the evening passed pleasantly. Dax played a few more songs and Joshua played a few. Then to Devra's surprise they played several together. Of course, now that he'd found his mate, Joshua's songs didn't have quite the potency or the hunger they'd carried before. Now his songs just made his listeners mellow, the way he felt now that he'd found Devra. Her heart melted each time Joshua looked at her, smiled at her. She loved him so much.

  “So, tell me Devra, how did you meet my son?” Elizabeth asked.

  Devra smiled softly. “A friend of mine played me a tape of his music. Just a short snippet, but it intrigued me, drew me, I guess you could say. When I finally got to his show I was overwhelmed and…” She trailed off heat rising in her face.

  Elizabeth chuckled. “And horny?”

  Devra's eyes widened and then she laughed. “Yeah, that was definitely it. Anyway, I wanted a story and I wasn't leaving there without one. I followed Joshua into the back hallway at Jazzy's and the rest, as they say, is history.” She picked up her glass of white wine and took a sip, enjoying the bouquet of flavors that burst on her tongue.