by Piper Stone
He could have no understanding of the power of his words, the beautiful sentiment flowing from the statement. I tilted my head until it rested on his shoulder, still trying to abate the hot tears.
“I know you haven’t told me everything, but that’s all right. When you’re ready, I’ll be here.” Montana brushed the tips of his fingers along the insides of my legs, lightly sliding them over my already quivering pussy. “I’m not going anywhere. No matter what the future holds.”
I realized I’d opened my legs, allowing him access to all of me, every single inch. I no longer wanted to hide anything from him. Not my past. Not my fears.
Not the love I had in my heart.
“We can’t do this,” I found myself blubbering.
He nipped my earlobe, his wet tongue dragging across my neck. “Why? Do you hate me?”
“Hate you? No! I hate myself.”
“I don’t care about your father.”
“But there’s more you need to know. He’s not a good man.”
Montana inched his fingers to my clit, swirling them in lazy circles. “Nobody is free of demons, Holland. Not a single one of us. Now shush. You belong to me.”
I wanted nothing but a fantasy, at least for a little while. I needed his rough hands caressing me, the pads of his fingers teasing my clit. I hungered to feel his thick cock throbbing inside of me and the whispered words of desire driving me to the brink of madness.
He ground his hips against my ass as he continued fingering my pussy with one hand, taunting my already hard nipple with the other.
Pinching.
Twisting.
My pussy quivered as he darted his fingers just inside, sliding past my swollen folds. I’d never felt so indulgent, every cell in my body on the peak of euphoria. I lolled my head on his shoulder, inhaling the sultry scent of him. I could drink him in for hours, could wear his masculine fragrance over every inch. I shuddered in his arms as my hips began to buck involuntarily, hungering for his savage touch.
“Do you want me, baby? Do you want my thick cock buried inside of you?” His whisper was husky, laced with testosterone.
“Oh, yes.”
“Do you crave a hard spanking, keeping you in line?”
I licked my dry lips, trying to fathom the reason for my hesitation. “Yes. Yes. Yes!” The words slipped so easily from my mouth.
As he bit down on my neck, he thrust his fingers deep inside, his actions primal.
Barbaric.
Even his low-slung growls were possessive, a reminder that I was all his for the taking.
The tasting.
The owning.
The pain as he pinched my nipple was further fuel, driving me onto my tiptoes.
“Oh, God... I...” A short laugh escaped my lips followed by a series of purrs as goosebumps covered my arms and legs. He had no idea the effect he had on me or the hunger clawing at the surface and I knew I was surrendering, giving him all of myself.
No matter the consequences.
No fear of the unknown.
I closed my eyes, lost in the reverie, enjoying the way his cock was pressed into the cleft of my ass. The heat from the water, the melding of our bodies was intense, steam floating toward the ceiling. When he removed his fingers I gasped, ready to beg him to fill me again.
But he had other things on his mind.
“I’m going to fuck you.” His words were simple, clear and said with purpose as he rubbed the flats of his hands along my spine. Gripping my hips, he shifted his cock back and forth, creating another wave of tingles.
I arched my back, mewing several times in enticement, his teasing driving me crazy. He kicked my legs further apart then slid the tip of his cock up and down the crack of my bottom. I could still feel the heat from the previous spanking and in truth, longed for more.
Who was this woman who’d always been horrified at the thoughts of a dominating man?
Where was the guilt that had plagued me for days, a fear that craving a firm hand was wrong?
Montana’s fingers dug into my skin as he slipped the tip of his cock into my wetness. “You have no idea what you do to me. What do you want, bad girl? Tell me what you need.”
“Fuck me. Please, just fuck me.”
His laugh was laced with a dark sensuality, his hot breath skipping across my skin. As he guided his shaft in another inch, I shook to the core.
“Oh, yes. I’m gonna fuck you real good, sweet baby.” He thrust the entire length of his cock all the way inside, the force stealing my breath, the dazzling sensations shooting through every cell and muscle.
He’d taken to calling me baby. The endearing word was right for sweet girls without tragic pasts, women who could obey without question. I wasn’t one of those, but nevertheless, I adored hearing him say it.
“Yes. Oh. Oh. Oh!” I couldn’t hold back my exclamations, my fingers digging at the tile as he pulled out, slamming into me again. Everything was a beautiful blur as he began to plunge in deep and even strokes, the sound like tribal beats.
The way his three-day stubble shifted across the tender portion of my neck was far too electrifying, curling my toes. I adored every inch of the man; the ruggedness and well-honed muscles, the rough spots of skin on his fingertips, and the wry smile he gave when he was curious about something.
Which he always was.
I could no longer think, had difficulty breathing as he took me, every action a piece of orchestrated music. I never wanted this moment to stop, could indulge him for hours. Days.
Forever...
I bit back an anguished cry at the thought, trying desperately to push aside my fears and concerns. I deserved a moment of happiness.
“So wet for me. So hot.” His growl was almost inaudible, yet the sound drummed into my ears, penetrating my mind. This was utter perfection.
“Uh-huh,” I managed, no longer able to feel my legs, but the tingling sensations swirling from my pussy to my toes was insane. I squeezed my muscles, smiling when he dropped his head, moaning in his deep baritone.
“Teasing me,” he whispered.
“Always.”
“Mmmm...” Montana refused to stop, fucking me even more savagely, using one hand to smack my bottom with every hard thrust. “My bad little girl. My naughty vixen.”
He was letting go, releasing all his pent-up desires, showering me with more affection than I thought him capable of.
And in those next few seconds, my last resolve was shattered, an orgasm rushing through me. “I’m going to... Oh, God. Oh...”
“That’s it, bad girl. Come for me.”
I lost all control, the climax exploding into every cell. “Yes. Yes. Oh. Oh!” My scream was high-pitched, echoing in the room, creating a chuckle slipping past his succulent lips. Another one hit me, creating a violent wave, more pleasure than I’d ever had in my entire life. Stars floated from every direction, vibrant and dazzling colors filtering all around me.
“That’s it,” he whispered, nipping on my earlobe.
Slumping down and out of breath, I pressed my face against the cool tile, relishing the feel as I tried to catch my breath.
“Mmm... You’re sexy as hell when you come,” he said, chuckling. “Now, it’s my turn.” Once again, he gripped my hips, pulling me away from the wall.
I no longer tensed when he teased me with sliding his cock between my ass cheeks. I adored feeling so full, the incredible pain morphing into the most sensational ecstasy. I wanted to be fucked in the ass, like all bad little girls deserved.
He wiggled the tip until he found my dark hole, one hand pulling apart one side of my bottom. There was no time to brace for the brutal action. He pushed the tip inside until he hit the ring of muscle then jutted his hips forward.
I opened my mouth in a silent scream, my legs threatening to give way. Panting, I slapped my hand against the tile before clawing at the porcelain. “Uh. Uh. Uh. Uh.”
“Yes. Fuck, yes!” His roar was powerful, rumbling between us. He issue
d four additional smacks against my bottom before driving in and out, taking his time as he filled me.
Fucked me.
The anguish was blinding. The bliss following sublime. I shifted one arm behind me, brushing my fingers against his thigh. I couldn’t get enough of just touching him, gorging on his sexy body.
He was having none of it, yanking my arm back in position, cradled next to the other, his massive hand wrapping around both wrists.
I wasn’t going anywhere.
“Mine. All mine. Never forget,” he murmured.
As if I ever could.
As he powered into me again, harder and faster, I clamped down, pulling him even deeper inside.
“Fuck. Yes. Yes!” His roar was even louder, his body shaking violently as he erupted inside, the warmth filling me.
When he rested against me, not only could I feel the irregular beating of my heart, I also heard the words I’d longed to hear.
And the ones that would haunt me.
“I love you.”
* * *
“Coffee,” Montana said with a growl as he swept behind me, pressing his body against mine as I stared out the kitchen window.
“I thought we could use a full pot.” I was still exhausted, my nerves on edge. The fire had certainly done a number on both of us. I thought about the animals, so grateful that we’d been able to get them to safety.
“Maybe two.” He grabbed a cup, helping himself to the half and half in the refrigerator, finally turning his attention to the small television on the counter. “Any news on the fire?”
“I haven’t heard anything, but we’re past the morning news.” I could just see Misty nuzzling against her foal in the corral, another aspect of the wretched situation that at least made me smile. “Misty is going home today.”
“Did you check your voicemail by any chance?”
I tipped my head, laughing given the boyish grin covering his face. “Yes, I did. You were right. I have fourteen calls to return with new potential clients.”
“Yes?” He lifted a single eyebrow.
“Yes, sir.”
He swatted my bottom before leaning against the counter, his gaze returning to the television. “How about a ride tonight?”
“Not another bull. I don’t think I’m ready just yet.”
This time, his look was full of ire. “One of my horses. And you’re right. You’re not quite ready for a full rodeo just yet. You need training.”
He ducked out of the way before I could swat him.
“I’d love that.” The concern had returned, filling my mind totally.
“What did you mean about your father?”
I almost jumped when he asked the question. “The people he was working with were dangerous. They were criminals.”
That certainly got his attention.
“Criminals.” He took another swig of coffee and my guess was contemplating a barrage of questions.
“Yeah. The worst kind. And my father said that—”
“We interrupt this program to bring you a breaking news bulletin.”
My eyes were immediately drawn to the television.
“What. The. Hell.” Montana’s words weren’t a question. We both crowded closer to the screen, his hand fumbling for the remote in order to turn up the volume.
“Breaking just minutes ago, our television station has learned that wealthy capitalist Walter Gammon has been linked to several extortions occurring in the Cheyenne area and surrounding counties. He was arrested early this morning, charged with several serious crimes, including the possible arson attempt at the Hill Crest Rodeo facilities. Let’s hear the details from Julia Gregor, who has been investigating recent activities leading to his arrest.”
“Julia. Your friend,” Montana managed.
“Uh-huh.” I inched even closer, still staring at the vivid images, hearing a few words, but my mind couldn’t process the information. This was far too tidy, too clean. Julia hadn’t just discovered details about this from things I told her. This had been a long-term investigation. Why wouldn’t she tell me? Well, she did try to warn me to stay clear. I slunk back, hiding behind the cup of coffee.
“What the fuck?” Montana hissed, slamming his hand on the counter. “Other members of the crime ring being investigated. What the hell has happened to this town?”
“There’s a lot of money to be made if the ranches are foreclosed on. The land is valuable.”
Montana nodded. “That’s true. Greed is a powerful incentive.”
Maybe the nightmare was over. Maybe my father’s message was wrong. Maybe there was no danger coming my way.
“From what my sources told me at the FBI, there are several other prominent members of society being investigated,” Julia continued.
“The FBI, huh?” Montana asked, taking another sip of coffee.
“If they crossed state lines the FBI would automatically be brought in.”
Montana chuckled under his breath. “You know a hell of a lot about law enforcement. At least there is some kind of closure.”
“This investigation is ongoing,” Julia continued, smiling brightly into the camera.
“I watch a lot of television,” I countered, trying to calm my nerves. First thing on my agenda? Calling Julia.
“You did good, babe, getting Julia involved.” Montana winked. “Although you’re still not very good at following orders. You could have gotten yourself killed last night trying to free the livestock.”
As if the man wasn’t right beside me the entire time, using an ax to break through some of the gates in order to free the animals. I had to admit, a wonderful sense of relief washed through me. “How can you be angry with me? We helped solve a major crime.” I stood on my tiptoes, kissing him on the nose. “Now I have calls to return and Misty to get ready for her departure.”
He snagged my waist, pulling me close. “You’re not getting out of punishment that easily. We’ll talk about that later.”
“I didn’t do anything wrong!” I didn’t think whining was getting me out of a stern round of discipline. And I had to admit, that would suit me just fine. If only the nerves would ease, the pit in my stomach would go away. I couldn’t erase the skittishness.
“Uh-huh. That’s for your sir to decide. Are you kicking me out?”
“I am.”
“Figures. Love them and leave them type,” he said, grinning. “I have a long day ahead of me anyway.”
I heard his cell phone ringing and sighed. So much for fantasies.
“Hey, Garland.” Montana playfully swatted me on the bottom again before his face pinched. “What are you talking about?”
I waited, watching as the color drained from his face.
“Okay,” he huffed, rubbing his eyes. “Yeah, I’ll meet you there.” After ending the call, he tipped his head, locking eyes with mine. “I’ll see you tonight?”
“Absolutely.”
Everything about his demeanor changed, even the look in his eyes. I followed him to the door and onto the front porch as he walked to his truck. Something was off.
After heading inside, I closed and locked the door, my instincts still on overdrive. The breaking news was still on, Julia happily taking center stage.
As my cell phone began to ring, I folded my arms, walking toward the counter with cautious steps. Unknown caller. I was fed up, sick of worrying. Without thinking, I snapped it into my hand.
“What the fuck do you want?”
“This just in, two other members of the extortion ring have been positively identified.”
I only heard a portion of Julia’s words as pictures were flashed across the screen. Although the photographs weren’t the best quality, shivers ran down my spine as memories rushed to the surface.
Another time.
Another place.
A serious threat.
My father’s warning wrapped up in a bow.
“If you ever see any one of these men, you need to get away. Leave where you are and
don’t look back. You need to look at them. Memorize who they are. They are not businessmen and accountants, doctors and lawyers. They are violent, dangerous men who will stop at nothing in their effort to seek revenge, including taking those you love. The guilt for your mother’s death is killing me.”
“What are you talking about, Father? This is crazy.”
He slapped the picture onto his desk. “I know every one of them and what they are capable of. They are loyal to the Michenzo family and that man is his son.”
I shook my head. “You’re unbelievable. Why don’t you just turn yourself in if you’re feeling so guilty?”
“Look. At. Them.”
Huffing, I took another glance, studying their eyes and bone structure, the curvature of their mouths. I never forgot a face. “Fine. I just did. Are we through here? I have a plane to catch.”
“Good. Leave and never look behind you. To you, I no longer exist. Protect yourself any way that you can. I love you too much to lose you. Please, never forget that. Take this.”
“I don’t want anything from you.”
“Take it. Only you’ll know when to open it.” He thrust the envelope into my hand.
I’d laughed at my father’s words, calling him a criminal, leaving town after spouting off several other nasty words. Then I’d called him a coward, especially after he’d disappeared, leaving no trace, but he’d taught me well enough. How to run and how to hide. I’d followed his directions. I’d played the game.
Like a good little girl.
I glared at the television one last time. There was no mistake. There was little I could do.
But run.
Chapter Sixteen
Montana
“What are we doing here, Garland? I thought you had a case you were working on.” The diner was well off the beaten track, a solid ten miles outside of the city limits. My entire day was going to be blown to hell.
He waited until the waitress refilled our coffee then glanced over my shoulder.
I followed his gaze, huffing. “Are you afraid someone is going to hear us?”
“That’s exactly what I’m afraid of.” Reaching for the sugar, his hand knocked over the saltshaker.