Men Love Curves: BBW Romance

by Ruby Madden

  Charlene took a sip of her coffee, shaking her head again. “Just a few times, when I came up to visit my step-aunt and uncle. Trevor didn’t let me go on trips alone much…” Her voice trailed off and she looked away.

  Ryker could see that she’d brought up something that bothered her. Made her sad and angry. He left it alone. She’d been through plenty, there was no need to belabor the point.

  “Well, once your ankle heals, make a point of hitting up the trails. They’re some of my favorite in the region. Seriously beautiful country.”

  Charlene smiled. “I’ve never been much of a hiker or trekker. Might be why I didn’t see that tree root yesterday, on the trail up here. But being out here will likely inspire me to be more outdoorsy than I usually am. I married really young, so a lot of the stuff I’ve wanted to do, I never got around to it. Now I can.”

  Ryker smiled warmly, wanting to put his hand on hers to comfort her. He sensed that she needed it. Her ex was sounding more and more like the asshole that many of his type were like.

  “I hope you get to do whatever it is your heart desires, Charlene.”

  Seeming surprised by his comment, she reached out and did exactly what Ryker had wanted to do – she put her hand on his. “Thank you, Ryker. That is one of the nicest things that anyone has ever said to me.”

  Ryker blinked, amazed at how pleasant the simple feel and touch of her hand on his, felt. A noticeable energy between them. Undulating back and forth. Their eyes connected, each of them suspended in the moment, studying one another’s face.

  Mutually mesmerized.

  To his surprise, Charlene leaned forward and gently kissed him. Tentatively. Sweetly. And it blew his mind. Like a butterfly, it was delicate and beautiful. Her lips felt and tasted amazing.

  Feelings he’d never had before blossom inside him, making him feel both silly and exhilarated at the same time. For the first time in his life, he had an idea of what love might actually feel like. Be about.

  She moved away, a big grin on her face. “I hope that wasn’t too forward? I’ve never done anything like that in my entire life…”

  Ryker shook his head, feeling almost too goofy to speak. “Not at all… pleasantly surprised actually.”

  Although he wanted to reach out for more, he decided not to, fighting his own impulse. He had to trust his gut and no matter what attraction there was between them, he knew that Charlene was in a fragile state. Breaking free from her abusive ex. He knew that it would take time and he knew that if things moved too fast, too quickly between them – then he stood the chance of losing her before it even got started.

  He still needed some alone time to shift and the hike back to his truck. If he was to get back to the base on time, he needed to get going. Which he was reluctant to do. He didn’t want to leave Charlene alone, knowing the reason why she was on the run and hiding.

  CHAPTER SIX

  [[ 6 ]]

  CHARLENE

  Charlene mused over her impulse to reach out and kiss Ryker. It felt so natural. Normal and to be expected.

  How in the world is this happening? How is this possible?

  But she caught herself, realizing that she’d be doing exactly what she intended to do. Start a new life. Break away and be on her own. Do and chase after what she wanted from life. Go after it and not back down. Be fearless. Be strong.

  And that meant acting on her feelings. Her desires. Allowing herself to feel what she’d been restricted to feel.

  Heaven knows she had never felt it with her soon-to-be ex-spouse, Trevor. Maybe a little in the beginning, but certainly not after being married a while to the abusive asshole.

  She could sense the hesitation in Ryker to continue with their intimate kiss and she knew why. He was being smart. Being a gentleman. Being sensitive to her situation and circumstances. And for this, she respected him all the more. Found him all the more tantalizing.

  She sucked in a deep breath and allowed the heat between them to dissipate and level out. There would be plenty of time to get to know him.

  Or at least, she hoped so.

  Hoping there would be plenty of chances to take it at its own natural pace. She just needed to be patient.

  “Promise me you will take me up on my invite to have dinner here. Let me know what day would work best for you?” Charlene asked.

  Ryker nodded, “Of course, I’d appreciate that.”

  “By the way, what’s your number?” Charlene asked, grabbing a pen and paper. “I need to get a new phone. Once I have it, I’ll text ya.”

  Ryker gave her his number, looking at the time on his cell which Charlene noticed.

  “Time to get back to the real world?” She quipped, a lump of disappointment growing in her stomach.

  “As much as I’d prefer to stay a while longer, duty calls,” Ryker said.

  Charlene felt his absence already. “I understand. You’ve been immensely gracious with your time. Thank you again for the help. You’re my hero...” she said, her voice faltering.

  “Nawh, just being a gentleman and maybe some civic duty. It was my pleasure. I’m glad we got to meet, Charlene,” Ryker said, his eyes full of sincerity.

  He stood and clasped her hand, then kissed the back of it. It was such a kind and noble gesture, it took her breath away. Charlene held back the tears that threatened to pour out.

  “Stay put, I can see myself out. I have to get going but am looking forward to that text. K?” Ryker said.

  Charlene nodded, feeling mute. Somehow she managed to mutter out an “Yes, of course. Thank you.”

  Then he strode to her door, opened it and was gone. She listened to the sound of it closing and burst into tears.

  Would she ever actually get to see him again?

  Were the feelings she had for him, mutual?

  She looked at the Vicodin pills he’d left her for pain and she took one. Although right about now, her ankle hurt much less than her heart.

  CHAPTER SEVEN

  [[ 7 ]]

  RYKER

  Back at the base, Ryker found himself thinking often about Charlene. He was distracted by the recollection of their interactions. All the small things that added up to what he was drawn to, what he admired about her.

  Remembering the kiss between them. Replaying it in his mind.

  He was glad that she’d provided an open invite for him to come to dinner. He just needed to text her and let her know what day worked best.

  As it was, he was fighting his basic mode, to be an island unto himself. In the military, he had to be one for all and all for one, but when it came to his personal life – he’d been a loner for so long that he didn’t know any other way.

  Part of it had to do with his upbringing. He’d been orphaned at age five when his parents were in a car accident and since they didn’t have any extended family members, he was put in the foster care system. Year after year of being moved around from one family or home to the next.

  Quiet and calculating, having to hide his inner bear to the officials since his parents had never revealed to the world that they were shifters. Which had made things awkward for Ryker. He had to get smart about finding ways to slip away and go somewhere remote so he could shift and let his bear out.

  He became numb with indifference as the years went by. Learned to be as self-reliant as possible and only did what he had to do – like going to school. Otherwise, he kept to himself. Alone and aloof.

  He’d had his fair share of near run-ins with officials of one sort or another. Until he enlisted in the military on the day of his eighteenth birthday. He was as eager as possible to be done with being a foster child and to begin his new life as an adult. He’d taken his GED so that he didn’t have to delay his enrollment any more than necessary. Done with High School, he grew up much faster than most males his age and he was glad for it.

  Having started in the Military Police, he’d seen his fair share of stupid antics and bad behavior fr
om young men his age. Even from those older than him. He’d frowned on it heavily, always aware of his elders and those who held rank.

  Ryker wanted respect and he was damned well ready to earn it. If most young men wanted to behave like baboons – then so be it. As for him, he had bigger dreams, plans and ambitions. None of which included a girl-friend, wife, mate or partner.

  Just casual sex and the occasional one-night stand with women who wanted the same thing.

  Now that he was nearing his twenty-third birthday and had decided to continue with the military once he’d served his initial four years. Turning his service into a military career. And he was doing well. With some time and wisdom, he’d promised himself to only enjoy casual sex, but not to get involved with a woman until he was in his thirties. By then, he’d be halfway done with his military career and able to commit and provide for her properly.

  Ryker was driving from one side of the base to the other. He drove by a group of cadets and remembered those first few years and smiled. There was nothing like military discipline to keep a young man in line. He’d hated the first year with a passion, his resentment of authority getting beaten down every single day. But he’d finally yielded and gained understanding to the hierarchal order in the military and what necessitated it.

  He’d finally learned how to funnel his anger, power and strength. His bear had fought him tooth and nail at times, but eventually – the man had gained control of his inner beast.

  “Lost in thought?” Jimmy asked, his military buddy who also happened to be a shapeshifter. A big cat, his inner beast was a leopard.

  Neither had said much since their shift had started.

  “Yeah, pretty much,” Ryker said.

  “What’s on your mind?”

  “The one thing that shouldn’t be,” Ryker shared.

  Jimmy grinned. “A lady?”

  Ryker nodded, not sure how much he really wanted to divulge. Jimmy was pretty good at keeping things private, not that Ryker had ever told him much.

  “Aawh, that’s new. You never talk about the ladies you bang,” Jimmy snickered.

  This irked Ryker and he didn’t know why. Normally, he’d just roll with it. But Charlene was different. She wasn’t just someone to have a one-night stand with. She was more than that.

  “No sex yet,” Ryker said matter-of-factly, shifting in his seat, a bit uncomfortable to be discussing something close to his heart.

  “Is that right?” Jimmy said, looking at Ryker with surprise.

  “Yeah.”

  Jimmy grinned, “Spill it. You know you want to, you never would have mentioned it otherwise.”

  Ryker relented, nodding. “It’s just that I have a plan. I didn’t want to meet a potential mate or wife material until I was in my thirties. As is, I’m married to the military and my career. I can’t allow a woman to get me off track…”

  Jimmy nodded. “Why not? Having someone to sweeten life up a bit never hurt no one. Plenty of us are mated and married.”

  “True. But I’m a loner. Always have been. Keeps it clean. No mess. I just don’t think its good timing.”

  “Yet…” Jimmy said, urging Ryker on.

  “Yet, she’s amazing. From the moment we met, there was a connection. A bond. My bear went crazy. I’ve never experienced that before.”

  “How so?”

  “Just crazy protective and possessive. Ready to do just about anything and whatever it takes to keep her safe and in my life. It was hard as hell coming back to the base.”

  Jimmy studied Ryker, he’d never seen his normally very calm and in control comrade so riled up. “She really got her claws into you? Is she a shifter too?”

  “No, just a very alluring woman. With a bad past too. The timing isn’t good for her either.”

  “How’s that?” Jimmy aked.

  Ryker wasn’t sure how much he wanted to divulge. As it was, it already felt like too much. “She is in the process of getting a divorce. Had to leave an abusive husband for her safety. That’s how we met. I helped her get to her destination, where she’s hiding out.”

  Jimmy heard the anger and concern in Ryker’s voice. “That’s fucked. I’m sorry bro. Men who beat on women are the lowest lifeforms in existence.”

  “Agreed. That’s why it was so hard to leave her.”

  “So, what’cha gonna do?” Jimmy asked.

  Ryker paused, lost in his own thoughts. He didn’t know yet. This frustrated him. He was a man who took action. Got shit done. Didn’t tolerate or suffer anyone’s bullshit.

  “I’m not sure yet. Need some time to get my head back on my shoulders,” Ryker said.

  They arrived at their destination and their chat ended as it was time to get ready for duty, each heading in for their next special ops session. Preparation for their next mission.

  .

  CHAPTER EIGHT

  [[ 8 ]]

  CHARLENE

  With Ryker gone, having returned to the military base, Charlene felt oddly alone. She’d quickly gotten used to his presence and his absence was noticeable.

  Was it normal to form such a fast attachment to someone barely known?

  A week passed and now that her ankle was doing better, she decided that she needed to get out and about, explore the Emerald Lake area. Maybe meet some of the locals and inquire about part-time work. She knew that the sooner she could find a way to occupy her time, the better it would be for her.

  To heal and get better. Make friends. Create a sense of community and connection.

  She drove the old Volvo down the main street of the medium-sized town, paying attention to what was where. She parked in front of a small library and noticed a coffee shop close by. She decided to go and get a latte, maybe a pastry of some kind.

  Pushing the coffee shop door open, she was immediately greeted and delighted by the smell of coffee and the heavenly scent of baked goods. Most everyone looked up and took notice of her, and then went back to their business of reading, typing on their laptops or chatting with a friend.

  She could already imagine herself coming here on a daily basis, sitting and writing or editing stories on her laptop, while drinking yummy coffee.

  At the counter, she noticed that the coffee shop clerks were cheerful and helpful, genuinely glad to interact with their patrons. Which made her wonder if they owned the coffee shop? Or at least, maybe one of them did?

  Charlene eyed the baked goods in the pastry case, waiting her turn in line to order.

  “New in town?” One of the clerks asked, a big smile on her lovely face, turning her attention to Charlene.

  “Why yes, I am,” Charlene replied.

  “Welcome to Emerald Lake. What can we get for you today?”

  Charlene liked that she was in a place where the people were acquainted well enough to notice a new face. Someone different. Being from a large city, she was used to living life among near strangers. Passing them by on the streets, always wondering about their lives and never knowing who they were.

  “I’d like a latte, a twelve ounce and one of your chocolate muffins,” Charlene ordered. “May I ask a question?”

  “Sure,” the clerk answered while placing the muffin on a plate.

  “I’m looking for part-time work. Do you happen to know anyone who might be hiring in the area?”

  “As it turns out, we need help. Do you have any barista or server experience?” The clerk answered.

  “Yes, while I was in college I worked for a coffee shop for a couple of years. It was fun. I love everything about a coffee shop,” Charlene said brightening up at the thought of working there.

  As Charlene paid, the clerk provided her with an application. “My name is Mona, just bring it on back to me. I’m hoping to hire someone within the week. What is your availability?”

  “Honestly, whenever you need me. I have all the time in the world. Mornings, afternoons, evenings – whenever you need me to work, really.”


  “Good, I like the flexibility.”

  Charlene gathered up her coffee, muffin and the job application, smiling warmly as she left. Feeling excited, she found a small table to sit at and sipped on her latte. She pulled a pen out of her purse and started to fill out the application. As she completed the application, she thought about the details of her life.

  What had changed and why.

  It was both amazing and hard to believe that she’d made it. That she’d done it. Managed to escape her soon to be ex-husband to start creating a life of her own, for herself. Already, in just one week, she felt worlds better than she had in years.

  She spent the next hour in the coffee shop, enjoying her coffee and muffin. She then decided to go to the small library, apply for a library card and check out some books. Both books for reading pleasure and books about writing and editing. She was just as eager to get her writing career jumpstarted.

  Stepping into the library, she immediately appreciated the smell of books. A feeling of comfort passed over her. It took her back to her childhood when she could spend endless hours in the library, reading. Since her Mother had been a single parent, she’d used the library as a type of baby-sitter. Charlene would walk from school to the city library, sit and read or do homework for the two to three hours before her Mother arrived to pick her up.

  She’d disappeared inside of the Nancy Drew and Hardy Boy mysteries, as well as the Oz stories by L. Frank Baum. She’d gobbled up E.B. White’s Charlotte’s Web, Stuart Little and Trumpet of the Swan. Those books had been the world she could disappear inside of and enjoy. Something she really needed, being a shy and reserved child.

  It wasn’t until her Mother remarried, when Charlene was a teenager, that she no longer needed to hang out in the library since her mother didn’t have to work full-time anymore. Up until that point, Charlene had been an only child. With her step-father, came two step-brothers. Both who were much younger than Charlene.