by Nikki Landis
“What’s your favorite? Grape?”
His eyes grew round. “Yeah.”
“I’m going to fill the doctor in about your arm and then I’ll be back with the popsicle. Okay?”
Noah nodded enthusiastically.
Nylah left as I sank into a chair next to the bed Noah was perched on. The nurse had raised the end, so Noah was sitting up but slightly inclined.
“How did she know about grape being my favorite?”
I was all set to answer when I noticed Noah had directed his question to Jayce.
“Well, son, I think there must be a little magic floating around here.”
Noah’s eyes widened further. “Magic? Like Christmas magic?”
Jayce ran his hand along his beard. “I think so. If I’m real quiet and still, I can feel it. What about you?”
My son stopped wiggling and squirming on the bed and closed his eyes briefly. When he opened them, he was smiling from ear to ear. “Wow. It’s like a little tingle in my belly. Is that what you mean?”
“Yep. You’re real good at this.”
Noah beamed a bright smile. “You’re the best Santa ever. I think you must have gone back to the North Pole for more training.”
Jayce let out a loud guffaw. “Kid, you’re one hundred percent right.”
I had no idea what they were talking about but seeing their interaction proved Jayce wasn’t a creep. At least, I hoped so. I would still watch him around my son. Noah was too trusting of strangers. No one was hurting my baby, not after all we’d been through and overcome to arrive here in Tonopah.
Nylah popped into the room with the popsicle and Noah chatted away with Jayce until it was gone. Licking the stick, he stuck out his tongue at me when I snatched it out of his hand.
“That’s enough, silly.”
A few minutes later Nylah took Noah to get x-rays and promised he would return soon.
“Super cool,” Jayce told him with his gravelly tone.
I paced with the emptiness that followed, worried about the results.
“You’re tense,” Jayce observed, leaning against a row of cabinets as his arms crossed over his broad chest. “Just routine, honey. He’ll be fine.”
“You don’t know that. He hasn’t seen the doctor yet.” I tried not to stare at the black leather vest and all his tattoos. Jayce had bad boy written all over him. Combine that with his wicked grin, hypnotic eyes, and the sex appeal that oozed from every single pore and this man was a volatile cocktail I was tempted to drink right up. I found his salt and pepper beard oddly appealing. My fingers twitched with the desire to brush the muscles all the way up his arms and under his t-shirt, to trace each inch of ink and ask their significance.
Jayce ticked his chin in my direction. “You always this tightly wound?”
What was that supposed to mean?
“I don’t know what you’re talking about,” I replied with attitude.
His naughty grin reappeared. “Sure is easy to rile you up.”
An amber sparkle shimmered in those dark depths and I had to resist the urge to tell him that most men never conjured any kind of reaction from me at all. I was numb to the male species after Chet. Men equaled pain, not pleasure, captivity not freedom. Well, until Jayce Riggs, silver fox biker with his annoying swagger and promise of sinful pleasure.
“You keep right on staring at me, pretty girl. I like what I see too.” His chocolate filled gaze roamed my body, taking its time as he began at my toes and slowly crept upward all the way to my lips. Pausing, he opened his mouth and nearly panted, winking as our eyes met. “Fuck. You’re just ripe for the pickin’, aren’t you?”
Shocked, my mouth popped open in an ‘o’ before I closed it with a snap. “You shouldn’t talk like that in public.”
He chuckled and dropped his hands, moving a little closer. “There’s all kinds of things I shouldn’t do in public, honey lips. Why don’t you help reform me?”
Smirking, I tossed my hair over my shoulder in an effort to prove his words weren’t having such a wicked impact on my female bits. Dirty biker. “Aren’t you too old to have a woman reform a single thing about you?”
He didn’t skip a beat and answered fast. “For you, sugar lips, I’d give it a try.”
Right. “Stop referring to me as honey and sugar and whatever else you keep saying.”
“Why would I want to do that?” he asked, sauntering closer. “That’s exactly what the fuck you are, little mama. Sweet. Tempting.” His hand lifted and his fingers caressed the skin along my jawline. “So damn irresistible I know I’d get lost in all that honey and sugar. I could happily slip into a diabetic coma just for five seconds of my lips claiming yours.”
I gasped, my entire body coming alive with heat and sensation in ways I couldn’t begin to fathom.
Jayce’s mouth hovered just an inch above my own as his head dipped lower. “Say it.”
“Say what?”
“Tell me it’s true.”
“What is?” I asked with a whisper.
“What you are to me,” he commanded, his body almost caging mine in. “A plump, juicy, ripe little candied cherry ready to be devoured.”
Blinking, I stuttered my response, “Wh-what?”
“You heard me. You’re my holiday candy just waiting to be unwrapped.”
As cheesy as he was being, it actually worked for him. The guy was so intimidating and big that his soft words and seductive purr grazed right over my skin with a promise that was hard to ignore.
“You’re confusing me with all this.” I waved a hand at his muscled body, leather, and tattoos. “You look like a criminal who wants to ravage my body up against the wall hard and fast, but you sound like a lover who wishes to enjoy his infatuation for hours on end until we’re both fully satisfied.”
Jayce let out a low laugh and crooked a finger under my chin, holding my gaze with his own. “Damn, you have the sweetest little mouth. I want to lick each and every single one of those words and suck them right from your lips.”
“See? There you go.”
“You bring out the beast in me,” he rumbled.
“I don’t know anything about you,” I pointed out, desperate to keep the fear of the past from overtaking my life. This biker knew nothing about the horrors I’d endured. I planned on keeping it that way.
“Go out with me,” he blurted, almost like he couldn’t refrain from asking one more second.
My eyes narrowed. “Why would I want to do that? You’ll just try to seduce me on the back of your motorcycle.”
Jayce’s lips twitched. He slid his hand up and over my cheek, cradling my face as he tilted my head up a little more. “Because we both felt something the moment we met. I don’t play around, little mama. Life is far too short for games.”
Nylah walked into the room, but Jayce didn’t move. I backed away as his hand fell, my stomach clenching as I agonized over his words. I did feel that connection in the store and I felt it even stronger now, but I had a kid, and I was on the run. I’d always be looking over my shoulder. A part of me was still stuck in Texas no matter how much I wanted to break free. My ex was probably furious and trying to track us down. I didn’t think I could ever trust any man after what Chet did to me.
I was damaged goods.
“You’re overthinking it, sugar.”
I ignored the biker as Noah entered and Nylah’s lips lifted with humor. She shot an amused smile at Jayce.
“Mama, I got zapped with energy like one of the Mandalorian’s enemies! It was so awesome!”
“I bet that was better than baby Yoda.”
“Told you that you were gonna do something cool today,” Jayce added.
“He’s not really baby Yoda but it’s okay if you call him that,” Noah answered in a singsong voice.
We recently watched the episode that revealed his name. Noah was a stickler for it now.
My son fist bumped Jayce with his good hand before he was settled again on the bed.
“Knock, knock.
”
A new male voice caught my attention and I looked up as the doctor entered. “Hey there. I’m Doctor Mills.”
“Hi,” Noah greeted, staring at his white lab coat.
“I’m afraid I don’t have the best news. You’ve broken a bone in your arm,” he announced to Noah. “Thing is, I’m rather good at putting on a cast. Just have to keep it clean and dry but all your friends can sign it at school.”
Noah swallowed hard. “Will it hurt?”
“Not much. I’d say your pain was already as bad as it’s going to get, Noah. Your nurse has some medicine for you that will make it better.”
“Okay.” Noah sat up a little straighter. “I’m brave enough.”
“You sure are. I’m sure your mother is proud.”
“I’m super proud of Noah. He’s very brave,” I agreed as my voice faltered.
A broken arm? My poor baby!
A strong arm slipped around my shoulders and I sank into the embrace, immediately feeling a bit calmer. It was the oddest sensation but having Jayce there suddenly felt like it was completely normal. The doctor left and Nylah returned, giving Noah some chewable Tylenol and water. She left again to gather supplies for the cast.
“He’s gonna be fine. You’ll see.”
The words were whispered close to my ear and I noticed that Jayce’s mouth was close enough to feel the heat of his breath on my skin. A slight shiver snaked across my skin with a seductive whisper in response. Turning my head, I nearly pressed my lips to his.
“Oh,” I gasped. His beard tickled my skin before my gaze shot upward and I caught the flash of desire in his eyes.
“Santa, are you still watching over my mama?”
Noah’s innocent question caught me by surprise. “What’s that?”
“Santa said he was watching you at the house.”
A low chuckle left Jayce’s lips. “I sure was.”
Heat blossomed in my cheeks. “You’re not supposed to tell him that.”
Jayce shrugged and I caught the way his mouth twitched as he suppressed a grin. “Nothing wrong with the boy knowing I’m watchin’ and keepin’ you both safe.”
Narrowing my eyes, I gave him a slight push, but he didn’t budge. “Is that what you’re doing?”
“Sure, little mama.”
“We’ll see about that,” I responded with attitude when he lifted a hand and his knuckles brushed along the skin of my upper arm.
“Honey, you’re gonna see about a lot of things.”
Three hours later we were home and Noah was tucked into bed. He finally drifted off after the pain medicine kicked in. He was super excited to share his cast and exciting story of how he crashed and broke his arm. Jayce and I both signed it already and I was certain Noah planned on having everyone he knew at school do the same.
“He’s a strong kid. Fearless, too.”
I plopped down on the couch in the living room and Jayce joined me, sitting close but not enough to make me feel uncomfortable. At least not yet. I had a feeling he’d pick up where we left off at the Urgent Care and I didn’t want to get distracted before I had a chance to find out how he knew Noah. I’d warned my son about strangers since he was a toddler. Struck me as odd that he latched onto Jayce so quickly.
“He is,” I replied smoothly.
Jayce leaned back on the couch and placed his arms over the top, ticking his head in my direction. “Out with it, little mama. Don’t hold back now. Not that I think you will.” Amusement danced in his eyes, but I wasn’t falling for all his charm and charisma right now.
“How do you know Noah so well?”
“Well,” he answered, appearing right at home in my living room, “I do, and I don’t. You see he’s been popping into my garage for weeks. We talk a lot. He’s pretty protective over his mama.”
Dumbfounded, I nearly lost track of the purpose of this conversation. “What does he say?”
“He talks about school, friends, and how you’re both supposed to be happy now.” Jayce didn’t come right out and ask but the question was there.
I didn’t elaborate. Wasn’t the right time for this story and probably never would be. The ghost said to keep things simple when people asked. Less info meant less chance of being found. I didn’t have any intention of leading Chet to me and Noah. My lips were sealed.
“Does he go into your house?”
“Fuck no,” Jayce blurted, looking slightly offended. “I don’t invite little boys or kids into my home. I’m no pedophile.”
Relieved, I knew he wasn’t in my gut, but I had to hear it. “I didn’t think you were.”
Jayce nodded. “Good. Kid talks about the Mandalorian a lot too.”
“It’s his favorite.” I gestured to the bedroom. “He’s so happy in that room.” Tears sprang to my eyes and I blinked them rapidly away.
“You know,” Jayce began as he dropped his arms and leaned closer. “I’m pretty good at keepin’ secrets. Just in case you feel the need to unburden yourself.”
I didn’t. Maybe that would change with time. I wasn’t sure. “If it comes to that I’ll let you know.”
Jayce nodded and stood. “It’s getting late. My dog needs fed or he’s gonna tear up my house since I’ve been gone so long.”
“Sure.”
We lingered in that awkward silence that was proof neither of us wanted to end the evening, but both were unsure where to proceed from here. I liked Jayce and it wasn’t just the muscles, tattoos, and killer smile. He had this protective and caring side to him that seemed to resonate deep inside with me. A man who took care of his own and those he cared about.
I wasn’t used to that. It wasn’t what I’d known, and I found myself wishing for the opportunity to take Jayce up on all he kept hinting at. Problem was, he didn’t strike me as the kind of man who stayed tied down to only one woman. I had a son. And worse, I had a horrific track record with men.
Relationships? I didn’t even know where to start.
“You’re thinking hard there, sugar.”
Gnawing on my bottom lip with my teeth, I nodded. “You’re right.”
“Can’t pretend to understand the situation you’re in. I don’t know the circumstances that brought you to Tonopah, but I do know I want to explore what’s there between us.”
“Why?” I asked, almost blurting the question. “I’m a single mom. A package deal.” I waved a hand at him. “You don’t seem the type who wants to deal with extra baggage.”
He frowned and his eyes darkened. I must have offended him. “Because I’m old enough to be your father? Or because I’m a biker in a 1-percenter club? I don’t assume shit with you, little mama. I sure as hell ain’t breathing down your neck or judging you. Been through enough to understand where you’re coming from. Just askin’ for a chance, sugar.”
Swallowing hard, I blinked and stepped a little closer. “I don’t think you’re old, Jayce. But yes, the biker part has me worried. I have an impressionable 8-year-old. He’s not had a good example when it comes to a father.” I wouldn’t say more, and Jayce would have to understand.
“Where is he? Did he abandon you both?”
Damn. Was it better that Jayce believed a lie? Noah had to have mentioned something and if he didn’t, he may in the future. No, I had to stay silent on Chet and the past.
Lifting my chin, I didn’t answer.
“Fuck. I get you don’t know me well enough to trust me but that sure hits hard, sugar.”
“It has to be what it is, Jayce.”
Disappointment lingered in his eyes. “And you’re sayin’ what?”
“I don’t know if any of this is a good idea.”
“I see.” The gruff tone of his voice proved he didn’t agree. “Then I guess this is goodnight.”
He didn’t say goodbye and my heart did a funny little stutter. Jayce wasn’t giving up. Not entirely.
The idea that he would want to fight for a chance made me feel all warm and gooey inside.
“Yes. Goodnig
ht.”
He leaned down and placed a quick kiss on top of my head and then backed away. “I’ll be seeing you around, little mama.” A determined look entered his eyes and I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t looking forward to seeing what Jayce planned next.
“Dad, I need to use the mustang.”
My arms instantly folded across my chest as I scowled. “Where the fuck are you going now?” It was an act. I was just giving him shit and knew he’d see right through it.
His dark hair was swept back in a ponytail, showing off the shaved sides of his head where he used and dulled my razor to keep it smooth as a baby’s butt. Broad shoulders matched my own and so did the confident stance he took as we faced off. Handsome fucker looked just like me at that age and it was super hard not to crack a smile.
“Got a date.”
“With who?”
“You gonna bust my balls? ‘Cause I like this girl, Dad. She’s something special.” In his eyes I saw the truth. My son had it bad for whoever she was, and he wanted to impress her.
I ticked my head in his direction. “Fine. But don’t be later than midnight. You’ve got school tomorrow.”
Colter shrugged. “Need to loosen the reins there, pop. I’m not a little kid anymore.”
“But still under my roof and not an adult. Shit, son. Look who’s bustin’ balls now.”
My son’s head shook from side to side as he let out a loud guffaw. “I learned from the best.”
He sure did. “Keep your eyes on the road and off the girl when you’re drivin’. Don’t need you to get in a wreck.”
Colter snickered. “I’ll remember that. Ro sure is pretty though.”
Ro? Who was that?
My eyes narrowed. “Fuck. You’re not seeing Murder’s daughter, right?”
Rochelle was the only teenage girl I knew about that had the nickname.
“Yeah, I am. Like I said. I like her, Dad.”
“Then you better keep that girl safe and your hands to yourself. Treat her like a princess. We both know what will happen if you don’t.”
“I know. Trust me.”
“Murder will kick your ass and then I will after.”
Colter’s lips twitched. “Yeah.”