Monroe, Marla - Long, Lonely Nights [The Protectors 1] (Siren Publishing Classic)

by Marla Monroe

  “Whatever you want to do, honey.”

  Honey! Where did he get that? She frowned at him before allowing the guy to walk her back to the dance floor. He pulled her a little closer than she would have liked, but he didn’t push it.

  “So, what is your name?” she asked.

  “Jack. What’s yours?”

  They exchanged pleasantries, and she found out he worked in sales. He was thirty-seven and liked sports. Big news there, she thought.

  She did notice that his cologne smelled familiar, but she couldn’t place it. There was such a mixture of scents in the room; she couldn’t tell for sure if it came from him or one of the men around her. She supposed she could lean in a little closer to smell, but didn’t want to give him the wrong idea. The music ended, and he led her to the booth as she directed. He waited for her to sit back down and gave the men an odd look.

  “Maybe we can dance again later,” he said.

  Tina smiled. “Maybe.”

  Jenna returned from the dance floor with a nice looking guy. He smiled at them and introduced himself as Clark. He told Jenna he would like to dance again later, and she smiled and agreed. Riley frowned at her, but didn’t say anything. Logan shrugged when she looked at him. A few minutes later, Jenna grabbed Tina’s hand and declared it time for a bathroom break. The men insisted on following them.

  “Someone has to watch the table and our drinks, don’t forget,” Jenna said sweetly.

  “It’s only a few feet behind us,” Tina pointed out.

  Logan drew table duty and Riley escorted them to the bathroom line. He took a stand along the wall, watching them as they waited in line.

  “What is going on with them? I mean, how can we dance and have a good time with the two of them frowning around us,” Jenna said. “And Riley is a complete ass. He’s trying to tell me who I need to dance with and who is ‘off limits.’”

  “He’s looking out for you is all. They are both over protective. I’m just glad I’m not going to have to put up with Logan forever. I still don’t know what I’m going to do to keep him from staying with me at night. I can’t have him staying in the same house as I am at night,” Tina said.

  “Why not?” Jenna asked.

  “Because, I can’t resist him.”

  “So, what’s wrong with that? Enjoy yourself for a change. There is nothing wrong with a little hanky-panky with your neighbor.”

  “The problem is, it will be short-term, and I don’t know if I can handle that. He’s gotten under my skin. I’m not the kind of woman he is use to, and he will get bored with me soon enough. I have to live next door to him, Jenna.”

  “How far under your skin is he?” she asked.

  “I don’t know. I just know that being in the same room with him is like being in a room charged with electricity. My hair stands up. I get all excited just thinking about it. It’s not natural.” Tina shivered. “See. Just thinking about him does that.”

  “It is natural when you find someone that is right for you. Don’t throw away the opportunity to experience something you may never get the chance to do again. Go for it, Tina. He obviously likes you to go to so much trouble to protect you.” Jenna squeezed her hand.

  “I don’t know. We are so different,” Tina explained.

  “Yeah, and they say opposites attract.”

  “Maybe.”

  They finally reached the bathroom. After washing their hands, Jenna confessed she was having trouble with Todd again.

  “Todd came over again the other night and scared Mom, with his cussing and all, outside. I called the police and had him removed from my property, but I’m a little worried again.”

  Tina shook her head. “You need a restraining order against him, Jenna.

  “Maybe so. I’ll think about it.”

  “Whatever you do, don’t let him in your house.”

  Jenna shook her head. “Don’t worry. I don’t plan on it.

  “You’re having as much trouble as I am,” Tina said.

  “Yeah, maybe, but I know who my stalker is.”

  Riley escorted them back to the booth where Logan was waiting for them. Tina drank the rest of her ginger ale and sighed. She hadn’t realized how thirsty she was. Riley volunteered to go for more drinks. Tina said she just wanted water. Jenna agreed with water as well. Logan and Riley wanted beer.

  “I want to dance,” Jenna said.

  “Come on,” Tina said and pushed at Logan. “I’ll go with you.”

  “You two are not dancing alone. I’ll go with you as long as we stick together.” Logan slid out of the booth and helped Tina out behind him.

  The three of them walked to the dance floor and immediately began dancing. They ended up with two other guys dancing with them. A blond haired guy kept touching her as they danced. She didn’t like the familiar contact from someone she didn’t know and moved in closer to Logan. He responded by pulling her in close to him. Jenna did the same on his other side. Once the song was over, he led them back to the booth where Riley sat waiting. He had the two waters for them and a beer for Logan.

  “Next time they want to dance, you’re going with us. I can’t watch both of them at one time. They had half the damn men on the floor dancing with them.” Logan took a pull from his beer.

  “Did not,” Jenna said laughing.

  Riley stood up. “Come on. I’ll take you to dance.” They disappeared into the crowd.

  “Are you having fun?” Logan asked.

  “Yeah, thanks.”

  “You’re looking a little pale. Are you ready to go home yet?”

  “I’m a little tired, but I’m fine. Whenever Jenna is ready is fine with me,” Tina said.

  He draped an arm along the back of the booth. She didn’t pull away, but she couldn’t relax either. He was close enough in the booth that their thighs touched. She was aware of every muscle twitch or contraction. It felt too intimate somehow to have his fingers in her hair. He tugged it every once in awhile. She didn’t think he was even aware he did it.

  Jack, the man from earlier, came over and asked for another dance. Tina looked at Logan. He didn’t smile, but he shrugged.

  “Okay. I’d like that.” She scooted out of the booth after Logan did.

  Jack held out his hand, and she took it, letting him lead her to the dance floor. He danced really well. He didn’t pull her in too close this time. Instead, he talked, asking her questions.

  “Who is your boyfriend?”

  “Oh, he’s not my boyfriend. We’re just really good friends is all.”

  “That’s nice, but I don’t think he looks at you like just a friend. He acts like he’s claimed you,” Jack said.

  “Oh, no. He’s just really protective.”

  “Whatever you say.”

  The song ended, and she started towards the edge of the dance floor. He tried to keep her on the floor.

  “Just one more dance,” he said.

  “Thanks, but I’m tired. I really want to sit down.”

  He frowned. It looked as if he might get angry, but he smiled and escorted her back to the booth. He didn’t say anything this time, just glared at Logan and left.

  “You okay?” he asked.

  “Fine, thanks.”

  A few minutes later, Riley and Jenna appeared at the booth. Riley waited while Jenna scooted across the seat, then said, “Jenna’s tired. How about calling it a night?”

  “I think that is a good idea,” Logan said.

  They finished their drinks before the men led them through the crowd and outside the building. There was still a small line waiting outside to get in. Tina glanced at her watch. It was barely midnight. She couldn’t believe how exhausted she was. She guessed stress would make you tired though.

  Once they were on their way back to Tina’s, she relaxed. She wasn’t sure why she had been so tense at the club. It had happened after the last dance. Something had bothered her, but she couldn’t put her finger on it. Now she felt better. Maybe it was all the people. She
hadn’t been in a crowd in a long time. She drew in a deep breath and let it slowly out. Logan gave her a questioning look. She just smiled at him and looked out the passenger side window.

  When they arrived back at Logan’s, Riley slipped out of the truck after reminding everyone to stay until he had checked everything out.

  “How did he get my security code?” Tina asked with a frown.

  “I gave it to him. He needs to be able to get inside and out in case something happens.” Logan watched out his side window.

  “What about the key?”

  “I kept a key when I had your locks changed. I gave it to Riley so he could check the house out before we go inside.”

  Tina huffed out a breath and glared at him. He didn’t back down. In the end, she finally shook her head.

  As soon as Riley reappeared and gave the all clear sign, Tina and Jenna were out of the truck and inside the house in less than a minute. Jenna dragged Tina upstairs to the bedroom to talk.

  “You going to be okay here? Maybe you should stay with Logan at his house?”

  “No way. I’m staying here. My stuff is here. I don’t want to leave it.”

  “Don’t be stubborn,” Jenna said.

  “The police have got to catch him soon. I can’t keep living this way.” Tina sighed and shook her head.

  “They will, honey. Just let Logan help keep you safe. He’s right. You need someone to protect you night and day.”

  Yeah, but is it safe for it to be him?” Tina asked sarcastically.

  “Jenna smiled. “No, I don’t think so, but it’s the good kind of unsafe.”

  Tina pushed her. “Stop. It’s not going anywhere.”

  “Then it’s a damn shame,” Jenna groused.

  They returned to the living room to find the men talking in whispers by the door. The men stopped as soon as she and Jenna walked in the room. Riley announced he was going to follow Jenna home.

  “I don’t need you following me home. I can get home just fine without your help,” she complained.

  “Forget it. I’m going to make sure you get home safely. End of discussion so say good night, and let’s go.”

  Jenna hugged Tina, then glared at Riley and stomped out the door. Riley smiled at Logan. “Be back in a few minutes.”

  “I’m tired. I’m going to take a quick shower, then go to bed. I’ll lock you out,” Tina said and walked over to the door.

  “I’m not going anywhere until Riley gets back.” Logan stretched and sat down extending his long legs. “Then he’s going to watch you, while I get my bag. I’m staying here.”

  “Not going to happen. You are going to leave.”

  “I’m not leaving you here alone at night again. It’s too dangerous.” Logan didn’t move a muscle.

  “No, wait just a minute. You don’t live here, and you are not my husband. You can’t tell me what you are going to do. I don’t want you here,” Tina yelled.

  “Too bad, I’m staying.”

  Tina threw up her hands and growled at him. Then she turned, stomped up the stairs to her bedroom, and slammed the door closed behind her.

  Chapter Ten

  Logan smiled. She could throw all the temper tantrums she wanted to, but he wasn’t leaving her alone again. It was too dangerous. If he hadn’t been outside and heard her scream, the stalker might have hurt her before the police arrived. No, he would stick with her until they caught the bastard. Then things could go back to normal. But, could they really?

  Riley’s right. You’ve gotten a taste of her and want her. Admit it. You don’t want to let her go anytime soon. She’s gotten under your skin.

  He heard a noise upstairs and smiled. He could just imagine her stomping around in the bedroom getting undressed. She probably wore matching bra and panties. She might even have on a garter belt and stockings. He hadn’t been able to tell earlier. The thought of her in a garter belt and stockings with nothing else sent his blood pressure through the roof. His cock stirred making him groan. He set his jaw and thrust her out of his thoughts. He walked around the house checking every door and window until he was satisfied it was secure.

  Fifteen minutes later, he heard Riley pull in behind his truck. They weren’t going to park anything in her drive to give the appearance she was still by herself. They wanted the stalker to think everything was the same.

  Logan hoped to lure the nut out and catch him when he showed back up. He and Riley had put together a plan of sorts to catch the man before he hurt her again. If they didn’t catch him soon, luck would be with her stalker one day and he would slip past Logan and Riley somehow. That wasn’t acceptable in Logan’s book.

  There was a soft knock at the kitchen door. He checked to make sure it was Riley before letting him in. Riley handed him his bag that he had already packed. He must have gone next door first and gotten it for him.

  “Tina settled?” Riley asked.

  Logan laughed. “She’s anything but settled. She’s spitting mad and has been stomping around up there ever since you left.”

  “She’ll settle down before long. She looked like she was exhausted earlier.”

  “Yeah. What about Jenna? She wasn’t any happier you were following her home than Tina is about me staying tonight.”

  Riley laughed. “She’ll get over it.”

  “Something going on between you two?” Logan asked.

  “Nope, I know better than to get mixed up with class. I’m a no-class and don’t have any business messing with her. Which is something you should think about while you’re on the couch.”

  Riley glowered at his friend. He knew Riley was only saying what he had already been thinking. Still, he didn’t like it being pointed out to him. He was already struggling with it.

  “I know what I’m doing, Riley.”

  “If you say so.” Riley didn’t smile. “I’m taking the first watch outside. Morgan will spell me at dawn.

  “You see anything, give me a buzz on the phone, and I’ll be ready.”

  Riley left out the back door, and Logan reset everything once again.

  The shower cut off upstairs. He waited for about fifteen minutes, then went upstairs and knocked on the door. At first, he thought she wouldn’t answer his knock. Then she unlocked the door and asked what he wanted.

  “I’m going to check your windows and the French doors.”

  “I’ve already done it,” she said.

  “I’m going to do it again. Humor me. I want to check it myself.”

  She huffed out a breath and stepped back so he could walk in. She had on a terry cloth robe that covered her form neck to foot. It had to be hot. She held it tightly closed while he double-checked everything.

  “Looks good. I’ll be downstairs in the living room on the couch. You hear anything at all, call me. I’ll be here in an instant.”

  “Nothing is going to happen,” Tina said.

  “I know, but I am going to be double sure.”

  Tina shrugged, and as soon as he walked out, she shut the door and locked it. He heard the snap. If by some chance the stalker made it past Riley and him, a locked door wouldn’t give her much hope, but it would give her time to call the police. If he cut the phone lines, she could use her cell phone if she didn’t waste time. He would have to make sure no one got past him.

  Logan stripped down to boxers and pulled on a pair of jogging pants. He settled on the couch with his 9mm on the coffee table next to his right arm. It would be in easy reach should he need it. He would nap and still stay focused for any odd sounds. He would wake up without a doubt. Logan closed his eyes and relaxed. He memorized the different sounds around him and drifted into a light sleep.

  The next morning, he was up and in the kitchen fixing coffee when Riley knocked on the door. Logan let him in.

  “Nothing moved last night.”

  “Good.”

  “Morgan will be here this morning. I’ll come back around five and relieve him,” Riley said.

  “Good. How about some coffee?
”

  Riley declined and said he needed to sleep so he would pass. “I’ll talk to you later. Call if you need me. I’m going to catch some sleep,” Riley said.

  Once he had locked up behind Riley, Logan turned to find Tina in her robe and slippers yawning as she fixed herself a cup of coffee. He watched her sit at the kitchen table and hold the cup with both hands. She inhaled the scent, then took a careful sip. The smile that brightened her face was a beautiful site.

  “You like my coffee?” he asked.

  “Yeah. It’s really good. Rich.”

  “Yours isn’t that bad, but I like mine better.”

  “I’m not complaining. I needed this,” Tina said.

  “How did you sleep?” Logan asked.

  “I slept okay. Just not a lot.”

  He looked at her with a stern look on his face.

  “Better than I have lately, anyway.”

  You haven’t had a lot of sleep. Why don’t you go back to bed and sleep a little while longer? It’s only eight-thirty.” Logan watched her face.

  “No, I’ll take a nap this afternoon. I need to get some things done around the house.

  “I’m going to fix some cereal. Do you want some?” she asked.

  “No thanks. I’m going to fix bacon and eggs when I go home. I’m going to stick around until you get dressed.”

  “Oh, okay. I’ll go do that now then.”

  “There’s no hurry. Eat your breakfast, then go change,” Logan assured her.

  “I don’t want to hold you up,” she said.

  “You’re not. I don’t have anything planned today. I will probably finish up the yard if it doesn’t rain.” Logan said.

  Tina shrugged and got out the cereal, a bowl, and the milk. She ate in silence except for the crunch of cereal. Then she rinsed out her bowl and placed it in the dishwasher. She returned upstairs to the bedroom.

  He waited for about fifteen or twenty minutes, and she returned in old faded jeans and a green tank top. He had to pry his eyes away from her. He cleared his throat and told her goodbye.

  “I’ll be back later this afternoon in time for dinner. I’ll bring the meal,” he said.