Centerfold

by Kris Norris

  Roman started off the trip trying to broach the obvious distance between them, only to have Scarlet cut off his efforts by channeling her attention toward the tablet. They’d continued in silence, the miles slowly passing as a constant hum of the tires on the road. Snow dotted the landscape as they climbed into the mountains, nothing but evergreens blurring past the windows. Scarlet barely uttered a word, simply nodding when Roman went over the cover story, adding a reluctant yes here and there. She seemed determined to keep them at arm’s length, her body language clearly conveying her displeasure at the situation. Roman stopped a couple of hours later at the gates to the estate, looking at her in the rear-view mirror as he waited for the bars to open.

  It took a few moments before she glanced up, frowning as she caught his stare. “Problem?”

  Roman snorted. “Just that we’re here and you’ve hardly said two words to us since we picked you up, despite our efforts to contrary.”

  “I thought the purpose of this mission was to catch a serial killer?”

  “It is. But we’d like a chance to talk first—to explain.”

  “Short of both of you being abducted by aliens, I don’t want your explanation. I’m here to work. Which is why I’ve been going through the files. I can’t bring the damn tablet into the retreat, thanks to Glade’s paranoia. And I’d rather not end up as a chalk outline on some warehouse floor with the word December carved in my skin.”

  The vein in Roman’s temple pulsed. “Do you honestly think Aiden and I are going to let that happen? Give us some credit, darling.”

  She huffed at his endearment. “Doesn’t hurt to be prepared.”

  “Reading all those files isn’t going to help us when we don’t get past the damn doormen because we can’t convince them we’re together. And based on that permanent scowl on your face, no one’s going to believe that.”

  Scarlet graced them with a stunning smile. “Oh, don’t worry, baby. I’ll be sweet as sugar to you boys whenever we’re outside our room—every inch the doting lover I’m expected to be.”

  Roman grunted, driving through the entrance and up the winding driveway. Aiden knew Scarlet’s continued distance cut Roman deep, but it wasn’t something they could avoid. They’d created the unrest between them. They couldn’t expect Scarlet to simply welcome them home, especially when they’d been thrust into such a volatile situation before they’d had a chance to work things out. Though if the girl thought she was going to win just because she could hold a grudge, she had a hard lesson ahead of her.

  Roman parked the truck, twisting to face them. “Are we clear on the details of our relationship?”

  Scarlet sighed. “I know the cover story. You went over it a dozen times.” She scoffed at him. “Just because I didn’t talk much doesn’t mean I wasn’t listening. It’s my ass on the line. I’m not going to screw anything up.”

  “The bastard’s going to have to go through me and Aiden if he wants you. Simple as that. Now are you sure you’re ready? If you think it’s too soon…”

  Her bottom lip quivered for a moment as she grazed a hand across her shoulder. A hint of the girl bled through her façade before she drew herself up, every bit the confident woman they’d fallen in love with. “I said I could do this, and I will.”

  “Not really an answer but…” He looked out of the window as one of Glade’s staff stepped up to the door, grabbing the rear handle. “Show time.”

  Scarlet plastered on an exuberant smile, accepting the man’s hand as she exited the truck. Her heels clicked on the pavement as she took a few steps, waiting for Roman and Aiden to each take a side. She linked arms with them, giving each man a picture-perfect smile before matching their stride as they headed for the main doors.

  Roman glanced at him, all but rolling his eyes. Damn, she was good. Not a trace of the disdain she’d been shooting their way evident in her expression or the way she carried herself. She moved easily within their grasp, leaning into Aiden when he palmed her back, guiding her through the door Roman held it open for them. Every sway of her hips echoed in Aiden’s groin, spiking his dick against his zipper.

  He leaned close to her ear as she swayed his way. “Scarlet. If you keep brushing against me like that…”

  She didn’t answer, just managed to graze her knuckles across his cock, allowing them to linger just long enough his damn dick hardened further against her touch. He saw a smile tease the corner of her mouth as she nodded to a couple off to her right. Fuck, she was going to kill them, and she didn’t need a weapon to succeed.

  Thomas Glade stood several yards away, greeting his guests as they made their way inside. Aiden scanned the room, groaning inwardly. He’d hoped Glade would restrict the retreat to the women involved in their case, but apparently, the man didn’t have an ounce of common sense. He’d turned the gathering into a goddamn gala, with a seemingly endless stream of people moving freely through the rooms.

  Roman shouldered up beside him, smiling and nodding as he leaned in. “Can you believe this? There has to be upwards of fifty people just in this area alone. How the hell are we supposed to make anywhere secure?”

  “We’ll adapt. Just keep smiling.”

  Scarlet gave Aiden a light elbow, motioning to Glade with her head. Aiden sighed, following her lead as she made her way over to the man, accepting his embrace.

  He stepped back, holding her hands as his gaze ran the length of her body. “Ms. December. I’d recognize you anywhere. And what a stunning vision in red.”

  Scarlet blushed as if on cue, affectionately palming her hand on the older man’s arm. “Thomas, you are such a charmer. You remember Roman Kincaid, my lover and personal agent.”

  Thomas extended his hand, shaking Roman’s. “Glad you could make it. Hope the snow didn’t slow you down.”

  “It’s a lovely drive.” Roman turned to Aiden. “As mentioned on our reply to your generous invitation, we have a new partner. Thomas Glade, this is Aiden Cross.”

  Thomas eyed Aiden, accepting his hand. “A third. How intriguing.” Glade leaned in closer. “I am correct in assuming you’re more than just a pretty face to these two, aren’t I?”

  Scarlet laughed, effortlessly moving into Aiden’s embrace, one arm wrapped around his waist as the other caressed his chest. “Do I look like a fool?”

  She laughed again, the sound so fucking natural Aiden damn near laughed with her. Shit, she had Glade hanging on her every word.

  She tsked Thomas. “What woman in her right mind would pass up a chance to have this in her bed? Especially when her lover wants him, too?”

  Glade grinned. “What a wonderful development. As I recall, you two were rather timid the last time you were here. We were beginning to think you might be…plants.”

  Scarlet tensed ever so slightly, before she batted her eyelids, giving the man a roll of her eyes. “Funny. I heard the same thing about Ms. February. Will she be joining us?”

  Glade’s demeanor changed. “I’m afraid she can’t be with us.”

  “Shame. Now, if you’ll just inform us as to which room we’ll be staying in…”

  “East wing, last suite on the left.” He cupped her elbow when she tried to walk past. “Our security requirements…”

  “Our phones. How could I forget?”

  She handed over her tablet and cell, still smiling at the man as Roman and Aiden followed suit.

  Glade thanked them, not yet moving aside. “Not to sound suspicious, but… We’re taking stricter precautions this time, what with that unfortunate incident involving Everett trying to exploit some of my girls. I’m sure you’ll understand that it’s for everyone’s safety.”

  To her credit, Scarlet didn’t even flinch. “Of course. What can we do?”

  ”It’s quite simple, really. I’m just asking for every couple to offer a show of faith.”

  “Not sure I’m following you.”

  “Just a few minor things. First, all female guests must have at least one male escort with them at all t
imes. No exceptions. Second, we expect every couple—or threesome in your case—to make an appearance at a few of our…engagements. Participation will be assumed, of course.” Thomas glanced at Roman then Aiden. “And lastly, all guests are required to give a visual confirmation of their…involvement before being granted full access.”

  Scarlet took a step back, bumping into Aiden. He snagged her waist, cursing under his breath at the shiver that worked through her.

  She recovered quickly, steadying her expression as she looked at Glade. “And how are we to achieve that?”

  “Quite simply, my dear. Just give your lovers a kiss for me. Trust me. I’ve been in this business long enough to tell a real one from a fake.” He snickered. “Unless you’d rather give us more of a show?”

  Scarlet waved his suggestion away. “Can’t start off the week with the grand finale. Every girl wants to have a bit of mystery about her.”

  “Touché. So a kiss it is.”

  Scarlet turned toward them, a momentary lapse of confidence creasing her brow. She opened her mouth just as Roman lunged forward, threading his fingers through her hair as he tugged her hard against his chest. She inhaled, her hands landing on his shoulders as he tipped her back slightly, crushing his mouth to hers. She made a muffled gasping sound before she melted against him, smoothing her fingers into his hair.

  Roman commanded the kiss, every set of eyes stopping to stare at the couple as he made love to her mouth, licking and nibbling her bottom lip when he finally released her. Her eyes blinked open, the stunning blue far darker than they’d been moments before. He smiled down at her, easing her back up. She raised her hand to her chest, as she seemed to take a few labored breaths.

  Aiden felt an answering tightness in his chest as Roman turned his gaze on him. Roman gave him a lift of an eyebrow before striking, taking Aiden’s mouth in a demanding kiss. The man swept his tongue inside, a lingering hint of coffee adding to the heady flavor that was all Roman. Aiden answered in kind, using his added height to dominate Roman once he’d started to ease off. Aiden didn’t hide his obvious arousal when he finally pulled back, knowing the hard line of his dick pressing against his pants would only add authenticity to their game.

  Roman smiled, glancing at Scarlet as he stepped back. Her eyes were rounded in shock, her lips slightly parted as if she’d started to say something but hadn’t remembered what it was.

  Aiden took the opportunity to snag her around the waist, pulling her flush to his chest. He dipped down, nuzzling his lips against her neck. A hushed, “oh, God” murmured next to his ear as her breath hissed out on a sigh. He worked his way up her jaw, lifting both hands to cup her face as he brushed his lips across hers. A tremble shuddered through her as he slowly claimed her mouth, licking his way inside, humming at the sweet taste that burst on his tongue. She reminded him of chocolate and honey, with a distinctive tang that tempered the other flavors. Scarlet responded, following his retreat, tangling her tongue with his until he broke the kiss, holding her forehead to his. Their breath mixed, and he dropped another quick kiss on the corner of her mouth before gently releasing her, lowering his hands to her hips. Scarlet blinked, sucking in a few deep breaths before visibly drawing herself up, plastering on a smile as Thomas clapped his hands together.

  He stepped between them, a sly grin on his face. “Well, well. Looks like we might have some new competition for some of our ruling champions. Because if you boys eat pussy and fuck half as good as you kiss, you’ll give us all quite the show over the next couple of weeks.” He bowed, waving them toward a sweeping staircase. “My staff has already taken your belongings up to your room. Feel free to take some time to recover from your trip. Festivities start first thing tomorrow. We’ll send a schedule of the photo sessions to your room. I look forward to seeing much more of you three in the near future.”

  Aiden nodded. “Thanks. We’ll see you soon.”

  He palmed Scarlet’s back again, guiding her toward the staircase. She walked woodenly up the steps, barely registering the other people milling about as they made their way to their room. It wasn’t until they’d locked it behind them that she seemed to snap back to her senses.

  She whirled on them, hands on hips, anger coloring her features. “What the hell was that?”

  Roman glanced at him, silently telling him to tread lightly. “You’ll have to be a bit more specific. What was what?”

  “That kiss.”

  Roman furrowed his brow. “It was what we needed to do to convince the old man we’re exactly what we appear to be.” He took a calculated step closer. “Unless you wanted us to take option two and give him a real show.”

  She clenched her jaw, narrowing her gaze. “Not funny.”

  Aiden moved in beside Roman. “It’s not like we had a choice. And if it means anything, you were very convincing.”

  “Me? It wasn’t me that convinced him.”

  Hurt flashed in her eyes, and Aiden didn’t miss the way she blinked away unshed tears. He looked at Roman but the man seemed equally confused.

  Aiden shuffled closer, frowning when she crossed her arms defensively across her chest. “Scarlet? What’s going on?”

  “Maybe you boys should tell me.”

  “Tell you what?”

  She kicked at the floor, shame hunching her shoulders, before glancing at them—the hurt impossible to miss this time. “You could start by telling me how long you two have been lovers. Because there’s no way that kiss was the first you’ve ever shared.”

  Roman closed the distance, stopping when she took a few quick steps back. “Don’t. Don’t fucking back away like you think we’d ever do anything to hurt you.”

  “Oh, you mean like disappearing from my life with nothing more than a few token words?”

  Roman faltered for a moment, guilt tightening the fine lines around his mouth. “I’ve tried talking to you—at the station and on the drive up, but you refuse to give me a chance to explain.”

  Scarlet swiped at her cheeks as a few tears slipped free, cringing as they fell silently to the floor. A mumbled curse crossed the short distance between them as she took what looked like a fortifying breath. “I think you just did.” She spun on her heels, stalking to the bathroom before closing the door, the sound of the lock tumbling into place echoing through the room.

  Roman crossed over to the door, palming the surface. “This isn’t helping, Scarlet. We need to talk.”

  “I need some time.”

  He leaned his forehead against the door, looking completely lost. “Please. Darling. Just let us in.”

  “You and Aiden can take the bed.”

  Roman fisted his hand, huffing out a breath before straightening. “Fine. You need some time, we’ll give you what we can, but you can’t hide forever. And we’re not going anywhere.”

  He walked out of the room, slamming the door behind him. Aiden headed for the bed, sinking down on the edge as he shucked his jacket off his shoulders, rolling them in an effort to ease the straining muscles. This definitely wasn’t going as planned. He only hoped they reached an understanding before the killer struck again.

  Chapter Five

  Roman stood in the bathroom doorway, staring at Scarlet as she slept in the bathtub—a pillow and her hands tucked under her head, a single blanket tossed across her. She’d spent over an hour hiding in the plush en suite last night before filing out, grabbing her belongings as she’d turned back toward the room. She’d stopped and simply stood there, waiting while they’d used the facilities before closing the door again, this time leaving it unlocked.

  Aiden had checked on her after midnight, spending the next thirty minutes sitting beside her, just watching her sleep. He hadn’t spoken when he’d finally ventured to their bed, giving Roman a kiss before turning over and drifting off. Roman had tried to get some rest, but every damn noise had put him on edge, the lingering doubt of her safety nagging at him. Though his head told him there wasn’t a way for anyone to get to her without walking thr
ough the room, his heart couldn’t stand the distance. Couldn’t ease without being able to reach behind him to feel her body curled next to him. This manor was the first time they’d shared a bed. And while he hadn’t assumed she’d be happy about sharing one again, he hadn’t considered she’d resort to sleeping in the damn tub.

  She snuffled in her sleep, shifting slightly before quieting again. God, she was beautiful. The way her brown hair cascaded over her shoulders, forming loose curls around her face. Her long eyelashes rested against creamy skin, hiding the brilliant blue that always made him think of the ocean—bright when she was happy, dark and gray when she got angry. He loved her moody little quirks—the way she scrunched her nose up when she thought he’d lost his mind. Or how her smile lit up her entire face, as if she’d flicked on a switch. She’d always looked at him like that. At Aiden too. As if they made her happy in a way no one else could.

  God, what he wouldn’t do to get that back. To have her gaze at him with an emotion other than anger or sadness.

  “Have I told you it’s kind of creepy the way you’re just standing there, staring at her?”

  “You mean the way you did for thirty minutes last night?”

  “Just wake her up. Gotta face the music sooner or later, buddy. Tick, tock.”

  Roman glanced over at Aiden, admiring the view. Chest bare, blond hair tousled about his head, he looked more than tempting. Of course, making love to the man was out of the question until they’d had a chance to talk to Scarlet. She’d seemed deeply hurt that they’d become lovers without her knowledge, and the last thing they needed was for her to walk in on them.

  He closed his eyes. Just thinking about the three of them together, bodies writhing, skin gleaming in the bright sunlight, made his dick jerk inside his pants. He clenched his jaw, flipping off Aiden before moving farther into the bathroom. He wasn’t sure he was up to another round of her glaring at them, or worse—watching her cry.

  Shit, in the two years he’d known her, he’d never once seen her cry. Sure, she’d shed a few tears chopping onions, or watching some sappy chick flick, but somehow that didn’t really count. Not like last night. The way she’d brushed them away, acting as if the simple act had weakened her somehow. It’d made him wonder in she’d cried others over the past three months. If he and Aiden had hurt her far worse than they’d ever imagined.