Forget You Not (Reclusive #2)

by Harloe Rae

  She rolls her eyes. “Maybe all this sugary sap is going to my head. You guys are cramming it down my throat everywhere I go.” Her scoff is exaggerated. “Once I get back home, the withdrawal will be painful. But I’ll be too busy to care, right? My life’s indecision continues on a constant loop.” Wren squints at her sister with a pursed pout.

  Before I can respond, Rowen sneaks up and pulls me into his bulky body. “What are you ladies talking about? Me, I hope,” he murmurs close to my ear.

  Shivers race down my spine at how close we’re pressed together. I can feel his slight bulge against my hip. “Always, Casper,” I whisper back after nuzzling into his neck.

  “This is exactly what I’m talking about. There’s no escape!” Wren huffs before crossing her arms, as if that will protect her from the lovefest she’s swimming in.

  Rowen’s chuckle puffs against an especially sensitive patch of my skin, causing another shock of tremors to attack my system. He buzzes his lips gently along the same spot and I fall further into him.

  “Mind if I steal my girl away, Wren?” He asks before continuing his assault on my nape.

  “Please, by all means. I’ve seen plenty.” She laughs while waving us away.

  “Dance with me, Sweetheart?” Rowen growls quietly.

  I can only nod while staring deeply into his bottomless ocean gaze. Refusing his requests would never cross my mind, ever again.

  He leads us to the dancefloor where others are moving to a slow beat echoing from a pair of speakers. Rowen twists me around before looping his muscular arms around my waist and hauling me in extra tight. His flat palms roam down until they’re resting on my ass. Pretty sure his paws cover me completely, which makes me feel protected by his possessive touch. Wrapped up in Rowen is my favorite place to be.

  “Are you not wearing panties, Vix? Again?” He asks as his fingers bunch slightly in the fabric of my gown.

  “Of course not. Nothing else was fitting under this dress.”

  He grips me harder, his searing touch sending electric shocks to my core. “I’d love to shove something else under there.”

  “Oh, I bet you would. Lucky for you, there’s a hotel room with our name on it.”

  “Is it too early to leave? Not sure how long I can wait. Especially now that you told me there’s nothing but bare skin under this silk.” Rowen groans before thrusting his firm arousal against me. Had I been wearing panties, they’d be reduced to a pile of ashes by now.

  I moan softly in return, “Just a little bit longer. Then I’m all yours, all night long.”

  “Fuuuuck.” He grinds out.

  I decide to tease Rowen a bit more. “Did you know banging a groomsman is on the top of my bucket list?” I purr while rubbing against his stiff length.

  His eyes clench shut while he croaks, “Why am I not surprised?”

  “What can I say? I love a guy in a suit and with all the passion in the air, it’s the perfect combination. Want to help me check that off tonight?” My eyebrows wag suggestively when his vivid blues focus on me again.

  Rowen sputters a laugh. “Life goals? At this hour?”

  I shrug lightly. “You know me. Always working toward something.”

  “Speaking of goals, are you going to marry me?”

  “Haven’t we already been over this? You’ll get a lot further if you ask me properly. Don’t assume I’m going to say yes no matter what. You know what they say about that . . .” My voice trails off, leaving him to assume what I mean.

  He ignores my nonsense. “Just tell me what I want to hear, Sweetheart.” Rowen presses forward before dipping me over his arm. He nibbles along my collarbone and trails up to my jaw where he sucks softly.

  My eyelids flutter shut as I breathe, “Someday, yes.”

  He pulls me up before lazily spinning us around the floor. “Someday soon, you mean?” Rowen asks but it’s not really a question. “What about having all my babies?” He murmurs along my flushed cheek.

  “Don’t push it, Casper.” Humor laces my voice while I inhale his delicious spicy scent. Cinnamon and cedar is a lethal combo, trust me.

  “Come on, Vix. Tell me what I want to hear.”

  This guy with his extreme need to lock me down—I love it.

  “Urgh, fine. So persistent.” Rowen hums in approval. “It would be my honor to have an entire mini-fleet of your gorgeous lady-killer children.”

  “That’s my girl,” he replies with a grin while resting his palm against my lower belly, which causes joyful tingles to cover my entire body. Rowen makes me so ridiculously happy. I can’t keep the wide smile off my face.

  He must catch my glee because a soft chuckle vibrates in his chest. “I knew you’d give into me, Sweetheart.”

  I push his shoulder lightly. “You gave into me just as much and we both know it”

  Rowen keeps laughing. “You’re right. So, how about we go master the art of baby-making?” His eyebrows rise suggestively, which has me chuckling too.

  “Hmmm, practice does make perfect.” I whisper across his scruffy jaw. “But not yet. We need to at least wait for the bride and groom to dip out first.” We take a quick peek at the very happy couple, currently making out against a tree.

  “All right,” he breathes while gathering me ridiculously closer, obscenely so for this type of setting. But after a quick glance around, every couple is smashed together in a similar intimate connection.

  So much love in the air, and we’re part of it.

  That happy thought has me snuggling closer into Rowen’s solid body, feeling cherished and treasured by this man. He rests his forehead against mine and a light puff of air caresses my neck each time he exhales—the sensation consuming every part of me.

  “Thank you,” I rasp almost silently.

  “For what, Vix?”

  My mind races as I attempt to nail down the most important reasons but I can’t settle on just a few. “Everything,” comes out as a long sigh against his handsome face. “You’ve given me something to believe in again and saved me from myself.” I swallow a few times to collect the emotion before spilling my guts.

  “My heart pounds a rhythm I’ve never known before because it’s beating along with yours. Nothing else matters to me except being near you, forever. Forget eating, drinking, and breathing. Just you, Casper.” My tone is hoarse as I push through the boulder lodged in my throat. “An invisible thread weaves all around, tying us together for eternity. You’re like an uncontrollable urge, a relentless force that takes over, and I’m only calm when we’re close. Like this.” I squeeze him in my arms as I press against him, until there’s absolutely no space between us.

  “It’s like I’m free falling without a parachute. Will you catch me, Rowen?” I whisper my desire in his ear.

  He doesn’t hesitate. “Of course, Sweetheart. Always.”

  “You make my soul smile and laugh. You make me so happy, it’s like I’m constantly soaring yet tethered to you at the same time. You’re my forever, Casper.”

  Rowen brushes a quick kiss along my lips. “You’re so fucking amazing, Vix. Especially when you reveal what’s truly deep down inside. I love you, Sweetheart. Forever and always.”

  Flutters erupt in my belly as I close my eyes and lose myself in this moment. “I love you so much,” I mumble along his mouth. “Did you ever watch Friends?”

  “What?” he asks as his face scrunches slightly.

  “Seems totally random but there was an episode about finding your lobster. Apparently they mate for life. I always thought it was cute as hell and wanted to use that line.” I laugh at my nonsense rambling.

  Of course Rowen gets it. “So, I’m your lobster?”

  “Well, yes. Although it was proven they don’t actually mate for life so it ended up being a huge let down. You’re my mate for life, though. Screw the lobsters sleeping around!” I wail as I toss a fist in the air. That gets me a rumbling laugh from Rowen, which gets me cackling too.

  What a pair we make.<
br />
  After the humor dies down, his bright blue stare sears into me as he leans forward for a scorching kiss. Our lips slide together in flawless unison, sucking gently while gliding softly. Mouths open so tongues can explore, licking and lapping with reckless abandon, but we aren’t in a hurry. Our kiss is a languid assault as we sway to a smooth melody. My fingers skate up his spine while his palms roam along my ass. Rowen’s erection is begging for escape against my pelvis while my nipples are ready to poke through fabric. With a few final strokes and nibbles, we break apart before stopping isn’t an option.

  Rowen’s chest is rising and falling rapidly as his fiery gaze consumes me. That look alone causes my breath to hitch as a pleasurable clench ricochets from my core. He bites his lip before detonating the explosives wired to blast into my hopelessly romantic spirit.

  “I’m going to make you Mrs. Sworr real soon, Sweetheart.”

  Rowen

  “Just got off the phone with Brock. I’m so fucking stoked about this expansion, Row. It’s huge for us.” Linc’s brash timbre breaks into my thoughts.

  I was wrapped up in visions of Lark, exactly where my mind always wanders, but even more so after the wedding last weekend. Over the last several days, I’ve been busy making plans. Tonight will be very special. I rub my forehead to get back on track.

  We’ve got to close this deal with our future partner. “I know, bro. I’ve been scouring this contract and it’s legit. This will set us up with some serious flow so we can finally hire a few more guys. All we have to do is sign on the dotted line,” I say after reading over the final paragraph again.

  “Do you think Croy and Xander are interested?” Lincoln asks while settling into a chair across from my desk.

  My younger brother, Croy, is still living in Texas but planning to move back before winter. I met up with him when we were down south making collaborative plans with Brock. He seemed pretty stoked about getting a job at Sworr Security when I mentioned our company growing. I love the kid but he’s still a little shit sometimes. This partnership with Brock isn’t a long-term guarantee, even though that’s exactly what we’re gunning for, so I’m still wary about offering Croy a spot.

  If this deal goes through, Xander is a definite addition to our team. He’s already been helping out with small side jobs when we have them and is ready for plenty more. His discomfort with people, crowds especially, is something he’s still working on but he’s motivated. He wants to be part of a team again, gain responsibility and purpose, so I’m going to give him that.

  “Xander is solid for sure. I gave him a heads up earlier that we’re close to sealing everything up. I’m more hesitant with Croy because he’s not living up here yet and I don’t trust his dumbass to make it happen. I’ll call him once the expansion is definite. We don’t need to decide about new staff just yet anyway.” I respond after thinking shit through. My palms roughly scrub at my face while I decide what to do next.

  Linc pipes up before any ideas take root. “How’s your girl? Still going good? You’ve been walking around with your damn head in the clouds all week.”

  “Lark is doing great, thanks for asking. We’ve got a date tonight actually. Jealous much?” I taunt.

  He scoffs. “Not likely. No woman will ever trap my ass.”

  “When you meet the right one, you’ll be begging her to tie you down . . . If you know what I mean.” I wag my eyebrows at him while making a mental note to pick up some rope.

  “That’s hilarious and you’re delusional. We’re different, you and me. I never want a wife and 2.5 kids running around, terrorizing my silence. I’m all good with the bachelor life plus a side of sex. I know that honey of yours has some hot friends. Why don’t you hook me up?” He asks and thrusts his hips crudely.

  “You’re such a douche. Grow up. I’d never sacrifice Lark’s friends so you can get your dick wet.”

  A chuckle busts out of him. “They’d be lucky to get a ride on my ten inches.”

  Now it’s my turn to laugh. “Bullshit, Linc. I’ve seen your pasty ass naked in the locker room plenty and you’d be lucky to claim six. Tops.”

  Our worthless banter keeps going until the phone rings, ending our immature shenanigans. After a brief conversation with the real estate agent, I hang up and look at my cousin’s questioning face. “That was Bill. He’s at the space if you want to tour it again. They cleaned it up since we were there last. Might be worth a gander. We can take new pictures for Brock, give him that final shove.”

  “Hell yes. We can head out soon and I’ll drive. I just have to finish watching some tape from the Walter’s party. Such a boring surveillance feed. I want to stab myself in the eyes to get it over with. Pays the bills though, right?” He says as he stands up.

  “I’m picking up Lark right after work so I’ll take my own car.”

  Lincoln coughs into his hand, “Pussy whipped.”

  “Happily,” I sing-song back at him.

  “You’re so lame, dude,” he grumbles.

  I snicker at his antics. “Seriously? We’re doing this again? You just said you’ve got shit to do.”

  “Yeah, yeah. You’re just trying to get rid of me so you can get back to daydreaming about Lark.”

  “Exactly, so get the fuck out of here.” I wave him off as he leaves my office.

  A few hours full of contracts and calls passes before Lincoln is ready to leave. I follow him to the industrial area of downtown where Brock is looking to set up his Minneapolis location. The streets are clogged with afternoon traffic but we make the commute in under thirty minutes. Unfortunately there aren’t a lot of big spaces open so I circle the neighboring blocks. Once again I’m reminded that fucking city parking is not equipped to handle my truck.

  Bill, the real estate agent, is standing out front with Lincoln as I stroll up. He sticks a hand out in greeting for me to shake. “Hey Rowen.” He nods at my cousin before looking back at me. “I was just telling Lincoln about the latest improvements inside. All new everything. I’m glad you two were willing to stop by.”

  “Thanks for taking time to meet with us, Bill. We appreciate the chance to look at the property again,” I say as we walk through the front entrance.

  Linc adds, “Definitely. I know Brock is pretty dead set on this place but a few more snapshots won’t hurt.”

  Bill nods his head. “I understand completely. Demo had just finished last time so everything was a mess. Now you can see the layout without all the dust hindering the view.”

  We walk around the first floor of the empty building, practically a shell just waiting for purpose. The other levels are very similar and we’ve already seen them before. The wall facing the main street is made entirely of glass, which gives the area a lot of great natural light. Other than plain sheetrock and concrete flooring, the vast space is a blank canvas.

  “The seller is motivated and ready to move forward so if your buyer wants it, you better tell him to hurry,” Bill says as we make it back to the front door. “I have to meet another client for dinner. Feel free to stick around for a bit and take the pictures you need. Let me know if you need anything in the meantime.” He hands me a set of keys for the back door, which has a lockbox, before leaving us to it.

  Lincoln uses his cell to capture some images while I text Lark to let her know we’ll be done soon. Nerves trickle up my back as I think about what lies ahead for my little vixen this evening. It’s a moment we’ll never forget, especially if she accepts.

  “All set?” Linc asks as we’re nearing the rear of the building.

  I take one more glance around while envisioning the space all done up and decorated like the company in Texas. “I think so. This works out well, right? Especially or us since it’s relatively close and in a decent part of town?” I ask while we step out into the back alley.

  This is the one part I don’t like. The narrow area isn’t lit up well and seems like an endless tunnel either way we turn.

  “This shouldn’t be an exit, especially a
t night.”

  Linc agrees with me, “I hear you. It’s eerie as hell. Why aren’t there any spotlights?” He laughs and slaps me on the shoulder before backing away. “Don’t let the boogie man get you, all right? I’ll see you Monday. Have fun on your date, man.”

  “Yeah, thanks. Have a good one,” I call out to his retreating form in the dark.

  I grab my phone to call Lark as I’m locking up the heavy door, thankful for the bright bulb hanging overhead. Hurried footsteps sound behind me and I’m sure Lincoln left something behind.

  I chuckle and ask over my shoulder, “What’d you forget? Or did you miss me too much?”

  A gruff voice barks out, “Give me your fucking wallet. The watch too.”

  What the fuck?!

  Instant fury thunders through me as I spin around on the spot, facing the moron who thinks stealing from me is a good idea. Before I’m able to react, blinding pain rips into my torso and causes me to stumble against the wall. The fucker doesn’t think twice before yanking his knife from my side, which sends another round of blistering torture through my body.

  Wet warmth oozes from me as I straighten along the concrete. Blood is already seeping into my shirt and spreading fast as the fabric sticks to my gaping flesh.

  Fuck.

  The wound must be deep to be leaking this quickly. After applying pressure to the nasty injury, I grit my teeth and attempt to ignore the wave of nausea rolling through me.

  Who does this idiot think he is?

  Then again, no one can see us from the street back here. I’m not sure many can see us at all based on the isolated setup of this alley. His form is twitching slightly as his chin bobs to a rhythm I can’t hear. Maybe he’s on something and desperate for a fix, figuring he’d jump me for money when I wasn’t looking.

  Fucking asshole prick.

  He stays in the shadows but his silhouette is highlighted by the lamp so I can clearly see when he tries coming at me again. I block his attack easily enough before driving my fist into his jaw, causing him to fall back. The effort takes a toll on my rapidly fading system and black splotches dance in my vision. My eyes clench shut to rid the obstructions from view and I realize the mistake too late as his blade slashes across my abdomen. I’m momentarily stunned by the searing fire blasting through my stomach. A hoarse yell escapes as the excruciating torture causes dizziness to blur my sight again. My knees threaten to buckle from the brutal bone-jarring agony sinking into me but I manage to stay upright.