Stroke of Sapphire

Awakening Desires - 8

by

N. J. Walters

As always, thank you to my amazing husband who shows me every day what true love is.

Chapter One

Jake Knight sat alone in the dark corner of the posh restaurant and stared at the woman seated on the other side of the room. The dim lighting surrounded her like a halo, allowing him to see her perfectly. Not that he didn’t already know what she looked like, but her appearance was different tonight. More sensual and seductive.

He shifted on his seat, trying to find a more comfortable position, but it just wasn’t possible. His dick was standing at attention, ready and willing to jump into action. But Jake ignored his blatant arousal and eased more into the shadows, content to watch, for now.

Her lips were painted a deep red, like ripe cherries. It gave a man all kinds of ideas. He’d love to nibble on those luscious lips, even better, he’d love to see them wrapped around his swollen cock.

Wasn’t going to happen. He broke out in a sweat when she licked her bottom lip and laughed at something her male companion said.

Her long, curly hair was pinned up in some kind of fancy style that seemed to defy gravity, leaving the sensitive curve of her neck bare. His shoulders tensed and he had to fight the urge to stalk over to her table, toss her over his shoulder and carry her off into the night.

But she wasn’t for him.

No, Sapphire Jewel was more than a decade younger than he, fresh and filled with an innocence that he’d lost years ago, that is, if he ever even had it. He felt old and jaded, which was why he’d broken things off with her a few weeks back.

Why then was he following her when she went out at night? He was verging on becoming a stalker, the kind of guy he hunted down and helped the cops put away. He much preferred to think of himself as a protector.

She was too damn innocent for her own good. Just the fact that she was on a date with Ivan Gregor was proof enough. The guy was a shark, a real estate developer who it was whispered regularly bribed city officials to make sure his projects went ahead with no difficulties. It was also rumored he’d recently done business with the Russian mafia. The man had friends in both high and low places.

What the hell was Sapphire doing with a man like Gregor?

Right now, she was safe enough, eating her dinner and sipping wine in a fancy restaurant. But what would happen after they left? No way was Jake leaving that to chance.

Plus, they were practically family, after all. His brother was marrying her sister. John and Topaz were tying the knot in a little over two months. Their path to the altar hadn’t been an easy one and John had resorted to kidnapping Topaz so she’d spend some uninterrupted time with him.

But their situation was different, he reminded himself. Topaz was older, and a lot more sophisticated then her younger sister. He remembered his advice to John when his brother had his doubts if he and Topaz would ever be together—we know how to fight for what we want, how to get around barriers and gain the objective. We don’t give up. Ever.

Good advice, too bad it didn’t apply in his situation. Sapphire was too young, too innocent, for a jaded soul like him.

He watched, hands clenched at his sides, his expensive steak dinner going cold, as Gregor topped up her wine glass. Sapphire smiled at him and nodded her thanks.

Could have been you, a quiet voice in the back of his head reminded him. He tried not to listen to that nagging voice. He could be the one enjoying a quiet dinner with her. Sapphire had been attracted to him and he’d certainly wanted her in a way he’d never wanted another woman.

He relaxed around her and she made him believe that anything was possible, even though he knew damn well that was a lie. Life was what it was and bad things happened to good people. His twenty years in the army and several years as a security specialist and bodyguard had shown him that.

As he watched her, she shifted in her chair, crossing her legs. Her skirt slid up, exposing a long length of smooth, silky leg. She had killer legs and the four-inch heels she was wearing made them appear even longer. He’d had those legs wrapped around his hips.

A muscle flexed in his jaw as he ground his back teeth together. He could almost feel her hot pussy closing around his hard cock, smell her light, floral perfume and the musky scent of her arousal mixed together, hear her breathy moans as she cried out his name.

He swallowed hard but didn’t look away. He couldn’t. He’d had her and he’d thrown her away. The fact that it was for her own good didn’t lessen the pain or the sense of loss that had consumed him every waking hour since.

The blouse she was wearing was silky, the front dipping low enough to show a hint of cleavage. And Sapphire had plenty to showcase. She wasn’t one of your skinny New York-model wannabes. She had curves that made any man who saw her sit up and take notice.

With her waist-length curly black hair, heart-shaped face and killer curves, Sapphire was stunningly beautiful. Not in a conventional, modern way, more like a throwback to the pinup girls from the forties and fifties.

But she hadn’t dressed that provocatively when they’d been together. Granted, he’d been her bodyguard and not her boyfriend at the time, but he’d come to know her well in the time they’d spent together. No, this was a new development, one that coincided with his walking away from her.

That was no accident. There was no denying that Sapphire had changed since he’d rolled out of her bed and left her. It was a hell of a thing for him to do to her and he knew he’d acted like a first-class bastard, but he’d done what he felt he’d had to do.

He’d done the tough things—the right things—all his life, but he’d never done anything that had shredded his soul the way that leaving Sapphire had.

It had changed them both and not in a good way.

He swore under his breath and scowled at the waiter who hovered next to his table.

“Can I get you anything else, sir?” The waiter swallowed hard, making his buttoned collar and tie appear way too tight.

“Coffee and my bill.” Jake wanted to be ready to leave the moment Sapphire and her date did.

“Right away, sir.” Jake barely registered the waiter leaving him. All his attention was on Sapphire. She’d done something to her eyes, some trick of makeup that women seemed to instinctually know how to do. It made them appear smoky and sexy, even darker than usual.

The waiter reappeared with coffee and a bill. Jake handed the man his credit card and he hurried off to finish the transaction. Jake could have told him not to rush. He wasn’t leaving until Sapphire did. He picked up his cup and sipped his coffee, enjoying the strong, dark brew. Before he’d had a chance to set his cup back on the table, the waiter was back. Jake looked over the charges, added a decent tip and signed the slip. The waiter melted away from the shadows, leaving him alone once again.

In the weeks since he’d left her, Sapphire had struck out on her own, getting her own apartment. She’d also gone out on a half-dozen dates, with a half-dozen different guys. That was totally out of character for the woman he’d come to know well over the past year. Being her personal bodyguard for several months had allowed him unimpeded access to her personal life 24/7.

Sapphire was a quiet woman who enjoyed her work and her family. When she wasn’t with her sisters or in her jewelry-design studio, she liked to putter with her small balcony garden, read and watch old movies.

When she went out it was usually with a group of her friends or with family. What was she doing dating all these guys? What was she trying to prove?

It struck him like a thunderbolt to the heart. This was his fault. He was responsible for the change in her. Pain lanced through him as he thought back to that fateful night that had changed both their lives…

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

“I can’t believe the trial is finally over and our lives can get back to normal.” Sapphire smiled at him as she dropped her small suitcase just inside the front door of the apartment she shared with her sister. But Topaz wasn’t here. She was off in a secluded cabin with his brother John. They were alone.

Jake closed and locked the door. His job as bodyguard was finished. He really had no reason to stay and knew he should take himself home. But he didn’t want to leave her.

She slipped off her coat and hung it neatly in the closet just inside the door. That was Sapphire. She liked order and for things to be in their place. He removed his coat and hung it next to hers.

“Do you want some coffee? Or maybe something stronger?” Her dark-brown eyes appeared even darker tonight. He knew she had to be tired. It had been a long few months and she hadn’t been resting well.

He was a bastard for not leaving immediately and letting her go to bed. His brain cells scrambled at the mere mention of the word “bed” in association with Sapphire. He’d spent many a long night lying awake, imagining what she’d look like naked and spread across her bed, waiting for him to take her. It made his dick hard to even think about it.

Not wanting her to see his arousal, he turned his back and walked over by her dining room window and peered out into the night. Lights of all shapes and sizes dotted the skyline. New York was alive and thriving. “I’m fine.”

He sensed her behind him before he felt the light brush of her hand over his back. He swallowed hard but didn’t turn around. No telling what he would do if he did.

“Jake, what’s wrong?” Her soft, melodic voice trailed over his skin, setting every nerve ending sparking.

“Nothing. I should leave.” Yet he made no move to do so.

“Stay.” Her softly spoken word echoed in his brain like a bomb blast. She couldn’t mean what he thought she did, could she? Of course not. She was probably just skittish about being alone. Her sister’s stalker was on his way to prison, but that kind of thing spooked a woman.

“Sure. I can stay on the couch and keep an eye on things.” Being tortured with hot knives would be easier, but he’d damn well do it. He’d do anything to make her feel safer.

She sighed and his cock was under enough control for him to turn around and face her. Her lips were turned down slightly and she looked sad.

He caught her chin with the edge of his hand and slowly tilted it upward until she was looking at him. “What’s bothering you?”

She bit her bottom lip and he swallowed a groan of arousal. She was the embodiment of everything he’d always wanted in a woman. Her curves begged a man to touch them, to stroke every mound and follow the arch of her hips. A man could drown in the depth of emotion shimmering in her eyes. It made him wish for things that would never be.

Sapphire shook her head. She opened her mouth to speak but quickly closed it again. That wasn’t like her at all. She was the most honest and straightforward woman he’d ever met. “What?” he prompted.

A look of determination filled her face and she went up on her toes, grabbed his shoulders and kissed him.

Holy fuck! His hands automatically went around her waist to support her. He opened his mouth to say something and she slipped her tongue inside. A dull roar began in the back of his skull and by the time the noise reached the front it blocked out all other sound.

She started to pull away, but there was no way he could let her go. Not now. Not when he was finally experiencing what he’d fantasized about for months.

He angled his head and took her mouth in an all-consuming kiss. Her fingers dug into his broad shoulders, but he barely felt them. His body was alive in a way it had never been before. She tasted sweet. A combination of coffee and mint from the snack she’d gotten when they’d stopped for gas on their trip back to the city. But beneath the artificial scents was the pure essence of woman, of Sapphire.

He coaxed her tongue into his mouth and then sucked on it, savoring her husky moan of arousal. Her hips arched against him, stroking his erect cock. He growled and lifted her more snugly into the cradle of his body. Her feet left the floor and he started walking.

Keeping his lips on hers, he maneuvered them into her bedroom, kicking the door shut behind him. Common sense and logical thinking had gone out the window the moment her lips touched his. He had to have her.

He leaned down until her feet touched the floor and pulled back. Both of them were panting hard and a lock of her hair was stuck to her cheek. He brushed it away, tenderly tucking it behind her ear.

He wanted to turn on the light, but was afraid she might balk. Thankfully, the drapes were open and there was more than enough light from the city shining in through her window to allow him to see her.

“Take off your clothes.” He sensed her surprise and her slight hesitation. He held his breath and almost roared with pleasure when she toed off her shoes and her hands went to the fastening of her jeans.

Jake took a step back, wanting a better view of her. His cock throbbed like a toothache as he watched her peel away layer after layer of clothing until she was down to her plain cotton bra and panties. He’d never seen anything sexier in his life.

“All of it.” He tensed, wondering if she would obey him. Jake wasn’t into bondage or pain, didn’t really understand why anyone would be, but he did like to be in control in the bedroom. It was as necessary to him as breathing.

Her hands slowly went behind her back and she unhooked her bra. Leaning forward, she let the garment slide down her arms and onto the floor. When she straightened, he sucked in a breath. Damn, he’d always known she had superior breasts, but they were even better then he’d imagined.

The mounds were firm and large, tipped with tight pink nipples. He reached out and thumbed one hard point. Sapphire moaned and leaned into his touch. He reluctantly pulled his hand away, knowing his control was tenuous.

“The panties.” His voice was hoarse and deep.

Sapphire hooked her fingers in the band and slowly shoved her panties over her hips and down her thighs. When they were around her ankles, she stepped out of them.

“Turn around. Slowly.” He almost came on the spot when she made a slow circle, letting him see every inch of her. “Lovely.”

She offered him a shy smile. “Like what you see?”

“Very much.” He crooked his finger toward her. “Come undress me.”

There was no hesitation as she came forward and splayed her hands over his long-sleeved waffle-weave shirt. “With pleasure.” She pushed it up and he helped her remove it. She gave a small murmur of pleasure and leaned forward to nuzzle his chest.

He groaned and stepped back. “Finish it.”

Her clever fingers had the snap open and the zipper open on his jeans before he could blink. She pushed them down but they got stuck around his ankles. She knelt before him, unlaced his boots and then lifted one foot and began to tug. When the boot was gone, she removed his sock and the jeans. Then she did the same on the other side.

Jake thought his body might implode at the sight of her kneeling naked at his feet. It didn’t get any sweeter than this. She was giving him everything he wanted without question. The amount of trust that took was staggering. After all, he was eight inches taller than she and outweighed her by at least sixty pounds.

She looked up at him, a mischievous expression on her face. Like she’d done with her own panties, she hooked her fingers into the band and tugged his boxer briefs down his thighs and off. His cock jerked toward her, more than happy to be free from confinement. She gave a low murmur of approval and captured his dick in her hands.

The feel of her soft palms wrapped around him made his balls unbearably tight. She slowly stroked up to the tip of his cock before sliding down to the base. “You’re so big and hard.”

He swallowed and called on every ounce of restraint he possessed to keep from coming. “Take me in your mouth,” he commanded. It couldn’t be for more than a few seconds or he’d lose it and come in her mouth. And while he’d love to fulfill that particular fantasy, he wanted to taste her sweet pussy, to come inside her hot, slick channel this first time.

Sapphire leaned forward, opened her mouth and closed it over the broad head of his penis. She flicked her tongue over the slit in the tip, taking delicate licks.

“Suck me.” He needed more than she was giving him. Wanted her to take all of him into the hot depths of her sweet mouth.

Several more inches disappeared past her lush lips and she hollowed her cheeks and sucked.

“Fuck.” Jake caught her head between his hands and showed her how he wanted her to move. “Take more of me. You can do it.” She had to. He was caught between heaven and hell with about half his dick in her mouth.

She sucked in a breath and moved down his hard length until he felt the head of his cock touch the back of her throat. She gagged slightly but didn’t back down.

It was fucking amazing. He eased out of her mouth until only the tip remained inside and then slowly pushed in again, going as far as he could. She was so close to taking all of him. His fingers tangled in her long, curly locks, anchoring her to him, moving her how he wanted.

He stared down at her naked form, watching his dick slip past her lips until he couldn’t take the torture any longer. He withdrew, leaned down and lifted her into his arms. Before she could speak, he had her flat on her back on the bed. He knew he should turn down the covers, but he was in too much of a hurry to bother.

Her lips were moist and her eyes slightly glazed as he knelt between her thighs, her legs on either side of him. The position opened her legs wide, giving him unrestricted access to her pussy. She was pink and swollen and wet.

“Now it’s my turn.” He cupped her hips in his hands and lifted her to his waiting mouth, feasting on her essence. There was no part of her he left untouched, unexplored. Her clit was hard and pushed out of its protective hood. He flicked his tongue over it and she moaned his name, so he did it again.

“Jake, it’s too much.” She gasped for air and tried to pull away from him.

He shook his head, his hands tightening around her to keep her where he wanted her. “It’s not enough.” He slid one thick finger into her tight channel, groaning as it closed around him. “That’s it, baby. Come for me.” He eased a second finger in to join the first one, slowly separating them.

“Oh God. Jake.” Her fingers gripped the quilt that covered the bed and she tugged on it, her entire body arching.

He closed his lips over her clit and sucked hard. She came apart in his arms, crying out his name as her climax swept her away. He reveled in her surrender, drinking in every sound, every taste, the way her thighs gripped his head and the quiver of her body as she gave herself over to her passion.

But he wasn’t done. Not by a long shot. He stroked and licked and aroused every inch of her amazing body, taking particular time on her fabulous breasts. Sapphire climaxed three more times, screaming his name each time, before he grabbed a condom out of his jeans pocket, slid it on and forged his way into her hot pussy. It wasn’t easy for him to get inside her. The delicate tissue was swollen from her multiple orgasms and she was tight to begin with.

She cried out and a single tear seeped from the corner of her eye. He leaned down and licked the salty drop, unsure if she was crying because of pleasure or pain. He hesitated, but she hooked her legs around his flanks in silent encouragement. He forged ahead and when his cock was locked deep inside her, he stopped and simply enjoyed the sensation of her wet sheath clinging to him.

He began to move, but he was too on edge to last long. Three strokes later, he came. Reaching between her thighs, he stroked her clit and she came again, joining him as he went over the edge. He yelled his release and buried his face between her breasts.

He rested there until he felt Sapphire shiver beneath him. Jake carefully eased out of her, but she winced. He frowned as he looked at her. She was pale and her eyes were unfocused. He was ready to go again and she was utterly wrecked.

Swearing under his breath, he lifted her into his arms and shifted her so he could yank down the covers and tuck her into bed. She was practically lifeless as she lay there, totally spent.

He turned on the bedside lamp and swore under his breath. There were already bruises coming out on her hips where he’d held her so tight and his five o’clock shadow had left a rash on her magnificent breasts.

“Sapphire?” When she didn’t answer him, his concern grew. “Baby, talk to me.” He patted her cheeks and her eyes gained some focus.

“Jake?” Her voice was barely a whisper.

He swallowed hard and nodded. “Yeah, baby, it’s me.”

“I’m sore.” She winced and moved, obviously trying to find a more comfortable spot to rest.

He thought about running her a bath for her to soak in. “I know, baby. I’m sorry.”

She nodded and closed her eyes. “Okay.” She drifted off to sleep seconds later.

He stared down at her for the longest time, noting the fatigue on her face and the dark circles beneath her eyes. There was another slight bruise on the inside of her inner right thigh. He couldn’t even remember what he could have done to put it there.

Swallowing hard, he turned off the bedside lamp so he wouldn’t see the marks he’d left on her. Jake pulled on his clothes, sat in the chair in the corner of her room and kept an eye on her all through the long night. He examined what had happened between them over and over as the dark of night turned into the dim light of dawn.

There was no way Sapphire could handle the sexual demands he would make of her. Not many women could. She was so sweet, so innocent. She deserved a gentle lover, one who would go slow and careful. Not a rutting bull who wanted to fuck her hard all night long and left her with bruises.

What they’d done tonight was barely the tip of the iceberg of what he wanted to do to her and with her, and she’d ended up sore and completely exhausted. And the last thing he ever wanted to do was hurt her.

No matter how he looked at the situation, it seemed he had little choice. He had to walk away from Sapphire before he hurt her worse than he had tonight. He was obviously too rough, too demanding for her.

He cursed the universe for showing him a glimpse of heaven only to tear it from him. It was obvious to him that while Sapphire was enthusiastic, she wasn’t experienced enough to handle his needs in the bedroom. He couldn’t bear to think what would happen if he really took control and did all he wanted to.

He couldn’t risk harming her again. Better a quick break now than to hurt her continuously. No matter how he played it out in his head, there was no way for either of them to win. He was too controlling, too dark for her to handle.

For fuck’s sake his intense brand of lovemaking had left bruises on her soft skin. What kind of animal did that make him?

And there was no way he wanted her to lose the sweet innocence she had. That’s part of why he’d fallen for her in the first place. She’d shown him all sides of herself, but he’d held his darker side in check, keeping it hidden until tonight.

She moaned in her sleep, as she’d been doing for the past few hours, and it hardened his resolve. It might kill him to lose her, but better to set her free than to see her come to dislike him, or worse, fear him.

It was well past eight in the morning when her eyelids fluttered open. She seemed disoriented and winced when she rolled over. Jake felt like kicking his own ass. He was too much beast for this innocent beauty.

“How do you feel?” He kept his voice level, letting no emotion show. What he really wanted to do was fall on his knees and beg her forgiveness, promising her he’d change. But he knew he couldn’t change who or what he was. He was forty years old and knew himself too well to lie.

“Jake?” She tried to push herself up, but didn’t quite make it. She licked her lips. “That was…intense.”

Jake nodded. “It was too much. I know and I’m sorry for that.” He pushed out of the chair and went to the end of the bed, looking down at her body huddled beneath the covers, wishing he could see her naked one more time. “It’s best for us both if we don’t see one another again.” Each word was ripped from his soul, leaving him bare and bleeding inside.

“What?” She blinked up at him and frowned. “I don’t understand.”

“I’m too much for you, demand too much in the bedroom.” He raked his fingers through his hair and took a deep breath. “I know you’re sore from last night, but even now I want to roll you onto your stomach and fuck you. What the hell does that say about me? I don’t want to hurt you any more than I already have, so it’s better if I just leave.” He turned and walked to the door, reaching it far too quickly. Each step away from her was agony.

“Jake.” She called his name and he glanced over his shoulder. “I don’t understand. Stay and talk with me.” A tear ran down her cheek, piercing his gut like a knife.

“I’m sorry, baby.” He hurried away. For the first time in his life, he was too much of a coward to stay. He grabbed his coat from the closet and opened the front door. It closed with a finality that almost brought him to his knees.

The only thing that sustained him was knowing he was doing what was right for Sapphire.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Jake shook off the dark memories that threatened to consume him. He’d replayed that night over and over in his head, wondering what he might have done different. Could he have stayed and tempered his sexual demands, been more careful? Could he have changed enough to make a relationship between them work? There was no way of knowing and it was too late. He’d panicked at the thought of hurting her, physically and emotionally, and had severed all ties with her. Sapphire had moved on with her life and quickly.

For the first week after he’d left her, she’d tried to reach him, calling every night, but he hadn’t answered, instead letting her calls go to his voicemail where he listened to them over and over, torturing himself with the sound of her voice. It had taken every ounce of strength he’d had to turn away when her name flashed on his phone.

Thankfully, his brother didn’t know about what had happened between them and Sapphire must not have told her sister either. If Topaz knew what had happened, she’d tell John and his twin would kick his sorry ass for what he’d done.

The day after she’d stopped calling, she’d gone on her first date. Obviously, he’d done the right thing by walking away from her, even if it didn’t feel that way.

Jake picked up his cup and downed the last of his coffee. It was cold and bitter now, much like him. He’d taken on the task of watching over her, a sort of penance for what he’d taken and how he’d hurt her.

Chapter Two

Sapphire wondered what in the name of God she’d been thinking to accept a date with Ivan Gregor. She’d met him through a mutual friend, more of an acquaintance really, and he’d seemed like a nice enough guy, if slightly self-centered. All he’d talked about the entire evening were his real estate deals, how much money he made and his new Manhattan apartment.

What in hell was she doing? She’d gone out on a multitude of dates over the past few weeks, all of them with seemingly perfectly nice men, but there wasn’t an ounce of spark with any of them.

None of them was Jake.

Tears pricked her eyes and she blinked several times to push them back. No way was she going to cry over Jake Knight. She’d shed far too many tears the week after he’d made love to her and left her. Thankfully, Topaz had been too wrapped up in work and her new relationship with John to notice. Sapphire had retreated to her jewelry studio where she’d spent more time curled up on her chaise lounge than actually designing or creating.

She missed him. There was a hole in her heart where Jake had resided. Since the first moment she’d seen him, she’d wanted him. He was tall with extremely broad shoulders, huge biceps and rugged good looks. And he filled out a pair of jeans in a way that should be illegal. His blond hair brushed the top of his shoulders and his icy-blue eyes didn’t miss a thing.

Funny how his twin brother didn’t do a thing for her, but put Jake in a room with her and all her senses flared to life and her skin practically tingled with excitement. He was self-contained and quiet, a thoughtful man, a man with secrets. She’d sensed that much about him over the months he’d been her bodyguard.

He’d actually guarded her twice and she’d had a hard time getting over him the first time he’d left and they hadn’t even kissed. This time they’d had mind-blowing, rock-her-world sex and Sapphire knew she’d never be the same again.

She could still picture him standing near the edge of her bed staring down at her, telling her he was leaving because he was too much for her in the bedroom, his sexual needs too intense. Translation, she wasn’t enough. It had devastated her.

“Sapphire, more wine?” Ivan was looking at her, a slightly annoyed expression on his face. Obviously, he knew she hadn’t been paying attention. Had he said something that required an answer? Other than the question about the wine, that is. She didn’t think so, but she couldn’t be one hundred percent sure.

She shook her head and forced herself to concentrate on the here and now. She ruthlessly shoved Jake Knight from her thoughts and smiled at Ivan. “No thank you, I’ve had enough.”

“Just a bit more.” He ignored her request and topped up her glass. She frowned at him. As the night had gone on, she noticed more and more his tendency to be overbearing and ignore what she said or what she wanted. This would be her first and last date with him.

The waiter strolled up to their table. “Can I get you anything else? Desert, coffee or tea?”

Sapphire opened her mouth to ask for coffee, but Ivan beat her to the punch. “No, nothing else. Just bring the bill.”

The waiter inclined his head. “Right away, sir.”

That was another thing she’d noticed. Ivan was abrupt with the waitstaff, bordering on rude. She really should have stayed home and curled up on her sofa with a good movie and a bowl of popcorn. Live and learn.

The waiter returned with the bill and she glanced away, letting her gaze travel around the upscale restaurant as her thoughts returned to the mess that was her life.

Her experiment over the past few weeks was a total bust. After Jake had shredded her feminine confidence with his abrupt departure, she’d taken a good long look at her life and decided she was way too boring.

She’d decided a change was in order and had moved into her own apartment. It only made sense since Topaz was moving into John’s place until their wedding. The happy couple was still trying to decide if they were going to get a new place or just continue living in John’s. The three sisters owned the apartment they’d shared together and had decided to sell it and split the profit, sending their sister Emerald’s share to her in her new home in Maine. The large, well-situated apartment sold almost immediately and she’d used the money to put a down payment on her own place. She’d also gone on a mini shopping spree, purchasing new clothes and shoes, and started dating.

But as of tonight, she was calling a halt to all of it. She couldn’t change who she really was and trying to do so wasn’t making her happy. Maybe she wasn’t enough of a woman for Jake Knight, but she liked herself just the way she was, or at least she had.

Her new shoes hurt her toes, she felt her blouse showed a bit too much cleavage and her skirt was about two inches too short for comfort. She was more of a jeans-and-T-shirt girl anyway. When she did dress up, she favored flowing feminine dresses and skirts and more sensible heels, not short skirts and low-cut blouses.

She felt totally fake and phony, not herself at all. Jake might have been the catalyst for this abrupt change, but she had only herself to blame for following through. No one had made her do it.

Ivan was talking again about his latest real estate deal. Honestly, she hadn’t heard half of what he’d said tonight, but one thing was obvious—he loved talking about himself and what he saw as his accomplishments. Nothing wrong with that, but he hadn’t asked her one question about herself or her work.

When he wound down enough to reach for his wineglass, she offered him a smile. “I need to get going. I have an early meeting in the morning.” Not really a lie. She was supposed to meet Topaz at their favorite bakery for coffee to talk about her sister’s upcoming wedding plans. They hadn’t spent any real time together over the past few weeks—a quick phone call here and there, and her several fast trips into their boutique Sisters’ Jewels didn’t count.

Sapphire hadn’t wanted to talk to anyone about what had happened between Jake and her. But her older sister knew something was wrong. Topaz wasn’t being put off any longer and had demanded they meet.

Ivan frowned and inclined his head toward her still-full glass of wine. “Aren’t you going to finish that?”

She shook her head. “I told you I’d had enough.”

He lowered his glass to the table where the base made a sharp cracking sound. Ivan wasn’t happy with her. Well, he’d have to get over it. Not that it mattered. She had no plans to see him after tonight.

A shiver raced down her spine and she turned, peering around the room. If she didn’t know better, she’d say that someone was watching her.

Then she inwardly chuckled at herself. Of course there might be someone watching her. The restaurant was filled with people.

“Of course we can leave if you’re ready.” That quickly, his entire demeanor changed and he became a charming companion once again, all signs of his previous annoyance gone. She had a feeling the man she was seeing was the one he showed to the world, like a mask he wore when dealing with most people. She had a sinking feeling the real man was much different.

He smiled, stood and came around the table to help her with her chair. His fingers slid down her back when she stood. It could have been an accident, but Sapphire didn’t think so. She didn’t believe Ivan did anything without having a purpose or goal in mind.

It was only early May, but the days had been warm and she’d only worn a light jacket over her outfit. Ivan lifted it from the back of her chair and held it as she slid her arms into the sleeves. His fingers brushed her nape and she had to fight the urge to lurch away from him. Instead, she casually took a step to the right, turned and offered him a casual smile. “Thank you.”

“My pleasure.” Ivan placed his hand on the small of her back and urged her through the restaurant to the front door. She quickened her step, trying to keep ahead of him so he wasn’t so close, but to no avail. He simply lengthened his stride to keep pace with her. Out of the corner of her eye she caught movement off to her right, but got distracted when Ivan’s hand slid down to the curve of her ass.

She walked faster, practically running, leaving Ivan behind her. The quicker she could get home, the better.

He was going to break Gregor’s goddamn hand. Jake wasn’t far behind the couple as they strolled down the busy New York street. The bastard had touched Sapphire’s fine ass as they’d been leaving the restaurant. It had taken all his considerable control to keep from leaping on the guy and pounding him into the ground. He still hadn’t completely dismissed it as an option.

And what the fuck was Sapphire thinking to let the guy get away with it? Okay, that wasn’t quite fair. He’d seen the way she’d jumped and hurried ahead of Ivan. He’d have much preferred if she’d turned around and slapped the guy’s face. But that wasn’t her style.

She needed a fucking keeper.

When he realized how much he was swearing, even if it was only inside his own head, he tightened the reins on his temper. How much he swore was a good gauge of how angry he was.

Jake kept to the shadows as he followed them through the boisterous groups of people all out taking advantage of the clear, cool night. The bastard was using the crowded sidewalk as an excuse to put his arm around Sapphire’s waist.

No doubt in his mind that Gregor was expecting to get lucky tonight. Gregor was the type to spring for an expensive meal and expect to be paid back for it in sexual favors. The guy oozed entitlement and elitism, thinking himself above everyone else, including the law.

As much as Jake itched to pound the crap out of the guy, he knew in the long run that was the wrong approach. He had some research and surveillance to do over the next few days. The cops might not have the manpower and resources to watch this guy, but he did. If Jake had his way, in a matter of days, Ivan Gregor would have his hands much too full trying to stay out of a media firestorm filled with scandal and charges of corruption to even think about Sapphire Jewel.

Men like Gregor usually took one look at a guy like him and dismissed him as nothing more than muscle, brawn with no brain, but he’d used that perception to his advantage many times before. No doubt about it, he was built to protect, but he also had a high IQ and understood computers and how they worked. More than that, he understood people—what motivated them and what they desired most. He couldn’t wait to get at his keyboard and start digging deeper into Ivan Gregor’s life.

But that was for tomorrow. Tonight was all about getting Sapphire home safe and sound. No way was he letting Gregor enter Sapphire’s apartment building. Unbeknownst to her, Jake had checked out her new place when she’d moved in. It had good security, but could be better.

Thankfully, she only lived six blocks from the restaurant and, since this was New York City, they would walk. It was a nice evening for a stroll, not too warm and not too cool. He frowned as he watched Sapphire hurry down the sidewalk and noticed she was limping slightly. Damn high-heeled shoes. She wasn’t used to wearing them that high. The things were like walking on toothpicks.

He wanted to scoop her off her feet and carry her. Yeah, like she’d let him do that after the way he’d left her. He’d be lucky if she didn’t start yelling and take a swing at him when she finally saw him. Not that he’d blame her.

And why didn’t that bastard Gregor notice she was in pain?

Sapphire’s feet were screaming by the time her building came into view. She sent up a silent prayer to the heavens in gratitude for making it home, even though she knew she’d have blisters. It was a lesson she wouldn’t soon forget—never wear new shoes on a date when you’ll be walking.

She’d gotten a cab there to meet him, not wanting him to pick her up at her apartment. It paid to be cautious, even if a friend had vouched for Ivan. But he’d insisted on walking her home, and she was quickly coming to realize that he expected to get his own way. She’d decided to let him walk her as far as her building. No way was she letting him come inside.

She stopped outside the double-glass door, grateful for the bright foyer lights. “Thank you for a lovely dinner.” She smiled and offered him her hand.

He frowned and glanced down at her extended hand. “What the hell is this?”

Now it was her turn to frown. “This is me thanking you for the evening.” She couldn’t even say it was an overly nice one. Ivan Gregor was losing more of his shine by the second. She had a feeling his charm was something he put on like a cape to hide his true self.

“I’m coming up.” It was a demand, not a request.

She shook her head. “No, I’m sorry, you’re not.”

“I paid for an expensive meal. You owe me.” He wasn’t joking. He really expected her to have sex with him because he’d bought her supper.

She reached into her clutch for her emergency money and pulled out a hundred dollar bill. “If that’s the problem, then here you go. That should cover my share. If it doesn’t, just let me know and I’ll send you a check.” When he didn’t take the money, she tucked it into the pocket of his jacket.

All she wanted was for this date to end. “Good night.” She turned her back on him and inserted her key in the outside lock.

A heavy hand landed on her shoulder and yanked her around. Ivan’s face was red and his green eyes glittered with anger. For the first time this evening, fear snaked into her consciousness. This man was more dangerous than he appeared. He might be wearing a designer suit, but he was anything but civilized underneath it.

“It don’t think so, bitch.” His fingers bit into her shoulder hard enough that she knew they would leave bruises.

“Let me go.” Their voices were pitched low and no one passing them on the street would see more than a man and a woman talking.

“You owe me and I plan to collect.”

Sapphire slapped her hands against his chest and tried to push him away. She managed to shove him back a few inches, but he grabbed her other shoulder and yanked her against him. His mouth descended but she turned her head aside and brought her knee up quickly. Wearing a short skirt had one plus—it enabled her to move her legs freely and quickly.

Ivan barely jerked back in time to keep from getting smashed in the family jewels. His expression darkened and Sapphire swallowed hard, getting ready to scream for assistance.

“Hey, Sapphire. Great to see you.” Like a dark avenging angel, Jake Knight swooped out of the night, appearing from seemingly out of nowhere. Relief swamped her. She might be angry with him, but right now she was glad to see him. He was the lesser of two evils. Better the devil she knew than the one she didn’t. Besides, as angry as she was with Jake, she knew he’d never physically hurt her. He might shred her heart and damage her self-esteem, but he wouldn’t harm her. Ivan had already proven he had no problem with manhandling a woman.

“Who the hell are you?” Ivan demanded.

“Jake Knight. You?”

Sapphire compared the two men, noting how Jake seemed to dwarf Ivan even though her date was only an inch shorter.

“Ivan Gregor.” He said his name like everyone in the free world should know who he was. Then he drew back his shoulders and practically sneered at Jake’s plain black jeans and black shirt that he’d topped with a leather jacket. “I’m her date. You?”

Jake slung his arm around her and pulled her into the curve of his body. “Me, I’m practically family. Her sister is marrying my brother. Which reminds me, babe, we need to discuss the latest change in the wedding plans.”

Sapphire didn’t know whether to laugh or to stamp on Jake’s foot with one of her new spiky heels. Ivan, on the other hand, looked about ready to have a stroke his face was so red.

She jumped into the breech. “I really should be going, Ivan.”

“I’ll call you,” he said stiffly.

She shook her head. “I don’t think that would be wise.” The way he glared at her made her very happy for Jake’s presence. Her shoulders still throbbed from where he’d grabbed her and she knew she’d had a lucky escape tonight.

“I’ll call you,” he repeated. He swept Jake with a glare filled with disdain and fury.

Jake only smiled and gave him a short wave. “Have a good evening.” He used the bulk of his body to block her from Ivan’s view, for which she was extremely grateful. She didn’t want to see the nasty expression on his face. She inserted her key into the lock and opened the door.

“Let’s go up to your place and talk about the wedding.” Jake stepped into the foyer beside her, letting the door close and lock behind them.

Now Sapphire was totally confused. Why would Jake want to talk to her about the wedding? He put one hand on her back and urged her toward the elevator. Even though she told herself not to look, she couldn’t keep from glancing over her shoulder. She caught sight of Ivan on the other side of the glass, watching them. His expression wasn’t pleasant at all. In fact, he looked downright enraged.

Another shiver snaked down her spine as the elevator door came open and Jake ushered her inside. When the door slid shut, he removed his hand and took a step back. Stupidly, she felt bereft and abandoned. But he’d already abandoned her, she reminded herself.

“Thank you for getting rid of Ivan,” she began, but stopped speaking when she got a good look at Jake. He was furious. She could see it in the slight tick under his left eye and the taut muscle in his jaw. Funny, she wasn’t the least bit afraid of him, not like she’d been of Ivan.

Jake stared down at her, legs splayed, hands on his hips. “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”

Ivan stood on the sidewalk and watched as Sapphire disappeared into the elevator with the ruffian with more brawn than brains. He knew the type well. That she’d go upstairs with a man like that and not with him was infuriating.

How dare she! She’d smiled at him prettily all evening long, flashing her cleavage and long legs, batting her eyelashes at him. She was begging him to fuck her, promising him his due, only to renege at the last minute. She’d learn that no one cheated him in a deal. No one. He’d have restitution one way or another.

Her protector might be around tonight, but he wouldn’t always be there. Of course he wouldn’t. There was no way she was fucking a guy like Jake Knight. It was obvious the man had no culture or breeding and he certainly didn’t know how to dress.

No, Sapphire was simply playing hard to get. She was nothing more than a tease. He’d have to show her the error of her ways and then he’d move on. He never allowed a woman to become a permanent fixture in his life and why should he? There were so many of them just waiting to be fucked, and most of them could be had for the price of a good dinner and a few glasses of wine.

It was laughable that Sapphire thought herself any better than the rest of them. His phone rang and he pushed her out of his mind, for now. He looked at the number and smiled. He’d been waiting to hear from this particular city official. “Hello, my friend. Do you have good news for me?”

Chapter Three

Tonight had been a complete and utter disaster. All Sapphire wanted to do was forget her less-than-stellar date with Ivan. But her body had other ideas. It was coming alive, every nerve ending sparking with desire the longer she stood next to Jake. He looked so big and sexy standing there with a scowl on his face. So solid. So…hers.

She swallowed and looked away, trying to ignore the heavy throbbing between her thighs. It did no good to remind herself that he wasn’t hers, had never truly been hers in spite of the fact they’d slept together.

“Hey, are you okay?” His voice gentled and she had to blink back tears. Even though it had been a close call with Ivan, she was safe now. There was no reason for her to be upset. Her emotions were on edge these last few weeks. So many changes and no time for her to really settle into the new life she was trying to build for herself.

Jake cupped her chin and tipped her face up so she was forced to look at him. Wearing high heels brought her closer to him than she normally was. “I’m fine.” She was proud of the way her voice stayed steady when her insides were quivering.

“Then what the hell were you thinking to go out with a guy like Ivan Gregor?”

It was her turn to frown. “What do you mean? He’s a friend of a friend.”

He released her face and she missed the warmth of his skin against hers. “You need new friends, babe. This guy is bad news. A lot of his business practices are questionable and not all his associates are nice guys.”

The elevator bell dinged and the doors slid open. She stepped out and started down the hallway. Part of her wondered what Jake was alluding to and how he knew it, but the other part of her really didn’t want to know. The last thing she needed in her life was more trouble and turmoil.

“No need to worry. I don’t plan on seeing him again.” She tightened her fingers around her keys and the metal dug into her skin. The quicker she could get inside, the quicker she could get rid of Jake.

All she could think about was their last time together. How he’d left her lying naked and completely sated in bed without a backward glance. Both her heart and her pride were still hurting.

A sense of relief swept over her when she unlocked her door and stepped inside the quiet of her new apartment, grateful she’d left a lamp on in the living room. The dim light provided her with a sense of comfort.

She turned to say goodnight. “I’m tired, Jake. We can talk tomorrow.” Preferably over the phone so she wouldn’t have to see his ruggedly handsome face.

She smiled and tried to close the door, but he literally picked her up, shifted her to one side and shut the door, with him on the inside.

Okay, being subtle wasn’t going to work. “I think you need to go. We have nothing to discuss.” She removed her jacket and tossed it over the back of a chair. She wanted to kick off her shoes and rub her poor, abused feet, but felt the added height gave her more of an advantage. And she needed every advantage she could get when it came to dealing with Jake.

He shook his head and wandered into the living room. His black jeans hugged his butt to perfection and his shoulders looked as wide as a mountain range in his supple black leather jacket. His hair was a bit longer than it had been the last time she saw him. It fell past his shoulders now and was sexy as all get out.

Jake took his time wandering around the room, his fingers trailing over the back of the chocolate-brown sofa she’d purchased when she moved into her new place. Bookshelves filled one wall and held pictures, small mementos and, of course, books. They also housed her stereo, flat-screen television and DVR. She’d made the space as cozy as possible.

“Jake?”

He turned and his laser-blue eyes landed on her, freezing her in place. His gaze skimmed over her blouse, reminding her that it was cut much lower than she was used to wearing. Her breasts swelled and her nipples puckered under his intense perusal. She barely restrained herself from crossing her arms over her chest. No need for him to know just how much his presence was affecting her.

He stalked toward her like a panther hunting a small rabbit. She resisted the urge to back away from him, holding her ground. No way would she allow him to intimidate her, especially not in her own home. He ran a finger down the deep vee of her blouse, his touch searing her skin. “Pretty.”

She barely managed to suppress a shiver of desire. She marshaled her defenses, swallowed hard and managed to speak in a casual manner. “Thanks, it’s new.” She’d liked the way the dark-brown color matched her eyes. She just wished it didn’t dip quite so low.

His fingers flowed between her breasts, over her stomach and hip and finally landed on the top of her thigh. The temperature in the apartment felt as if it had jumped at least twenty degrees in the past ten seconds. Her skin tingled where he touched her and her pussy throbbed with need.

“A lot about you seems new since we last saw one another.” His voice was low and seductive, but she wasn’t allowing herself to fall under his spell again, not after the way he’d hurt her.

His hand caressed the hem of her skirt before dipping beneath it to caress her thigh, and she forced herself to take a step back. “I decided there were a few things I needed to change in my life.”

And that was an understatement. After he’d demolished her confidence, she’d taken a long, hard look at her life and decided she needed to break out of the boring rut she’d allowed her life to become. Moving into her own place, buying new clothes and dating were supposed to change that. Problem was, she was still the same woman inside, and that woman was content to stay home in her comfortable jeans and work on her jewelry designs.

She’d changed the outside packaging, but inside nothing had changed. It had been silly to think a man like Jake would be interested in her for long. He lived life on the edge and she’d always sensed a smoldering darkness simmering within him. The most dangerous thing she’d ever done was move out on her own. Even when she and her sisters had started their business together, they’d had one another to depend on.

And she was acting pathetic, something she most definitely wasn’t. She might not be enough of a woman for Jake, but she’d come to the conclusion tonight over dinner that she was good enough for herself. No more trying to change who she was for any man.

He was staring at her, his eyes hot and smoldering. She had to get him out of here. “You said there was something about the wedding we needed to discuss?” Which didn’t make any sense. Topaz would have called her if there was some major change.

One corner of his mouth kicked up, making him appear impossibly handsome. Her heart skipped a beat before it took off at a full gallop. “I just said that to get rid of your date.”

Her shoulders started to throb at the reminder and she rubbed her hands up and down her arms to comfort herself. No, her dating days were over for the foreseeable future. “Good thing you just happened by.”

Jake didn’t say a word and his silence spoke volumes. Her brows drew together and she frowned. “You weren’t just passing by, were you?”

He shook his head. “I was following you.”

His stark honesty took her aback for a brief moment, but anger quickly ensued. “What do you mean you were following me?” She stepped up to him and drilled her forefinger against his chest for emphasis. She suddenly remembered the feeling of being watched back at the restaurant. “Were you there when we were eating?”

He inclined his head. “Guilty.”

His blunt sincerity left her almost speechless. “Why? I don’t understand.” The guy had dumped her. Why was he following her? Her family had already dealt with one stalker, and she certainly didn’t need one of her own. But it didn’t feel that way. For one thing, she trusted Jake with her life, if not her heart.

Jake wanted to wrap Sapphire in his arms and assure her that he’d never let anything harm her, but he’d given up the right to do so. He clenched his back molars together, wanting to kick himself for how much he’d hurt her. His intentions had been honorable, at least partially so.

He wanted to protect her from the dark side of his personality, but he’d come to realize over the past few lonely weeks that he’d been protecting himself as well, maybe even more so. He hadn’t wanted to expose all of himself to her for fear she would reject him. So he’d rejected her first.

He was a fucking idiot.

From the moment he’d left Sapphire all soft and warm in her bed, all he’d wanted was to be back there with her. He wasn’t sleeping, was barely working. It felt as though a vital part of him was missing.

“I know you don’t understand, babe.” She looked totally bewildered but incredibly sexy in her killer heels, short skirt and low-cut blouse. Breathtakingly beautiful with her luminous brown eyes, red pouty lips and curly black hair all bundled up in a fancy do. Damn, he wanted her in his arms and his bed.

But first he had to win back her trust.

“Jake?”

He reached out to her but she took a step back. It hit him like a fist to the gut, but he deserved it. He raked his fingers through his hair and took a deep breath. “I’ve been keeping tabs on you since the night I left.”

She shook her head and he could easily read the confusion in her eyes. “Why? You were very blunt the night you left. So why do you care who I see or what I do?”

How to explain so she wouldn’t kick his butt to the door? “Can we sit down?”

She skirted by him and turned on another lamp before perching on the edge of one of the chairs, making sure there was no way he could sit next to her. He crouched in front of her instead, needing to be as close as she would allow him. He took her hands in his. She resisted slightly, but eventually relented. A rush of pleasure filled him when she acquiesced to his touch.

Her hands were so small next to his, but he knew how skilled, how creative they were. He’d seen the intricate earrings, necklaces and bracelets she created in her studio. The woman was incredibly talented.

“I hurt you and I never meant to,” he began.

She tugged at her hands until he was forced to hurt her or release her. He let go of her hands and she folded them demurely in her lap. He immediately missed the feel of her skin against his. “You did, but the past is the past.”

Her eyes were steady and calm and a sick feeling filled his stomach. Maybe she truly had moved on. Maybe he’d blown his only chance with her.

“But that doesn’t tell me why you were following me.” She sat up straighter and a flush of anger tinged her cheeks pink. “How many of my dates have you been on?”

“All of them.” He wouldn’t lie to her, not ever again. Not that he’d lied to her that night. He’d honestly believed he was doing what was right for her by leaving.

No, the person he’d been lying to that fateful night was himself.

“All of them.” She seemed totally bewildered by his confession. “This is crazy.” She rubbed her hand over her face, appearing extremely tired and confused.

Jake took heart from the fact she wasn’t screaming at him or calling his brother to come get his sorry ass out of her home.

He hurried on, hoping to make his case before she decided to evict him. “You changed after that night. You moved out of the apartment you shared with your sister.” He’d felt better knowing she had Topaz close, but that hadn’t lasted long after he’d left her.

She shrugged. “She moved in with John, and Emerald lives with her husband in Maine now. Didn’t seem right to keep such a large place just for me. Besides, I wanted a fresh start.”

The unspoken words were that she wanted a new start because of him. He eased from his crouch and sat on the corner of the coffee table, praying it would hold his weight. Wouldn’t exactly be suave if he broke it and ended up sprawled across her floor.

“You changed your wardrobe too?” he pointed out.

She stood and walked away, not stopping until she was standing by the window in the dining area. The heels she wore made it seem as though her legs went on forever. His balls drew up tight to his body and he forced himself to look away from Sapphire and study their surroundings instead. The tiny dining space held a table big enough for four, if they didn’t mind being overly friendly. The apartment was much smaller than the one she’d shared with her sisters, but it was all hers. The quiet colors and comfortable furniture reflected her personality.

“I decided I didn’t like being boring or unsophisticated.”

Pain ripped through his guts. He was responsible for that. “Babe,” he began, only to have her hold up her hand to stop him from saying any more.

“Don’t call me that.”

He stood and went to stand beside her. “I never thought you were boring or unsophisticated.”

“No? Oh, that’s right. You just thought you were too much for me to handle in the bedroom. Translation, I’m not enough woman for you.”

He’d really fucked things up. “That’s not what I meant.”

“Sure it is. Don’t start lying now, Jake. Not when you’ve been so honest up until now.” With her hands on her hips and her head tossed back, she was the sexiest thing he’d ever seen. And she wasn’t done bringing him to task yet. “So honest in fact, you’ve been watching me and following me on my dates. Did you enjoy the art film last Tuesday?”

Jake winced. He’d dug himself a hell of a hole. “Ah, not particularly. And I know you didn’t either. You prefer older movies.”

“And you prefer action flicks. What about the concert on Thursday?” One toe tapped against the hardwood floor as she continued to question him.

“That one I had to wait outside. And before you ask, I enjoyed the Italian bistro and the art opening. What I didn’t like was seeing you with other men.” It had left him itching to hurt someone. He’d hated watching all those different guys walking with her, talking with her, holding her hand, kissing her good night. Thankfully, she hadn’t invited one of them up to her apartment. He wasn’t sure what the hell he would have done if that had happened.

Her anger seemed to deflate, leaving her looking bewildered. “I know you like your steak rare and you hate asparagus, but you’ll eat it if someone cooks it for you. I know you like to read thrillers and you’re close with your brother. I know a lot of superficial things about you, Jake, but I really don’t know you at all. I thought I did the night I took you to my bed, but I found out too late that I was mistaken.”

Jake moved as close as he could without touching her. He sensed her immediate tension but didn’t back away. “I hurt you and I’m sorry for that.” He rubbed his hand over his face, searching for the right words to make her understand. “You’re so innocent and filled with light.”

She frowned and sighed. “Like I said, boring.”

Jake shook his head. “No, never that. I find you endlessly fascinating. The way you enjoy whatever it is you’re doing, the creative way your mind works, your natural beauty. It’s all such a gift.”

“Why are you saying these things to me now? After everything that’s happened between us.” There was pain in her eyes, pain he’d put there, and he hated himself for it.

He had to make her understand. “I left because I thought it was the best thing for you. You’re filled with light and there’s a darkness inside me that is so deep, so ingrained, I feared it would overwhelm you and change you.”

Her brows drew together and he resisted the urge to rub at the lines that formed between her eyes. “So what you’re saying is that you decided what was best for me?”

He nodded, wondering if she truly understood.

“You ass.” She pushed past him and stalked back into the living room, her heels clicking furiously on the hardwood floor. “Who the hell do you think you are to decide what’s best for me. Of all the arrogant idiocy.”

Jake followed her, trying to think of what he could do to deflect her anger and swiftly came to the conclusion that he couldn’t and shouldn’t. He deserved all of it and more. “I wasn’t thinking straight.”

“That’s obvious.” The cutting edge to her voice almost made him smile. Sapphire was tough beneath her soft exterior. He knew that, couldn’t help but know it after spending so much time as her bodyguard. The woman ran a successful business with her sisters, for fuck’s sake. Sisters’ Jewels was one of the top boutiques in New York, Sapphire’s jewelry extremely popular, and that didn’t happen if you weren’t a sharp businesswoman.

But somehow she maintained an aura of innocence, of kindness. Her older sister Topaz came across as a tough lady with an iron will, covered with a veneer of sophistication. But with Sapphire, what you saw was what you got, honesty and kindness. Not that Topaz wasn’t that way too, or at least he thought she was, but Topaz was more guarded. Her sister Emerald he didn’t know as well, but she seemed bohemian and artsy, perfect for the New York scene even though she was now living in rural Maine. She’d survived a stalker so she had to be mentally tough.

Sapphire, on the other hand, was an open book. Or at least she had been. She’d closed up over the past few weeks even though she’d expanded her social activities.

“I think we’ve said all there is to say. You need to stay out of my life, Jake. I appreciate what you did tonight, but you need to leave me alone.” The rosy flush coloring her cheeks made her appear as though she’d shared a quick tumble with her lover. Wishful thinking on his part. It was all righteous anger aimed at him.

He shook his head. “I can’t do that, babe.”

“You wanted out and you got out. Don’t think for one second you can walk right back in and pick up where we left off. Not happening.” Sapphire walked to the front door and yanked it open. “You need to go.”

Jake walked over to the door, tugged it out of her grip and quietly closed it. “I can’t.” And that was the honest truth. “I thought what I was doing was for you, but it was really for me. I was afraid my darkness would hurt you, would swallow you, that my demands in bed would overwhelm you. Hell, the night we spent together, I was barely getting started when you were all but passed out. I feared what might happen if I did the things I really wanted to. I never wanted to hurt you that way. But I was also protecting myself.”

Talk about leaving your balls exposed. Jake had never felt so vulnerable in his entire life. He’d stripped back the cover on his soul, leaving it totally exposed to her. But if this is what it took in order to get Sapphire back, he was willing to do it. She had no idea just how much power he’d handed her.

Or maybe she did.

The smile she gave him was filled with sadness and a finality that made his balls shrivel. He feared what she was about to say, so he cut her off, not giving her time to speak. “No, don’t say it’s over. Give us another chance.” She had to give him another chance at getting this relationship thing right. He wasn’t sure he could live with the alternative.

“I’m not sure I can, Jake. I’m not sure I can ever trust you again. You shredded my confidence as a woman, as a lover.”

“And I’m sorry as hell for that. You were amazing that night, like a drug in my veins that I can’t live without.” He reached out and lightly rested his hands on her shoulders. “Let me prove to you I can change.” That was an offer he wouldn’t make to any other person on the face of the planet.

“Oh, Jake. I don’t want you to change. Neither of us should have to change. If we’re not enough just the way we are then it won’t work.”

“Then give us another chance to see if it will work.” She had to give them another shot. He gently squeezed her shoulders and she flinched. “Son of a bitch. He hurt you, didn’t he? I’ll kill the motherfucker.” Jake knew he should curb his language, but too many years in the military had given him a colorful vocabulary that came out whenever he was truly angry.

“I’m fine. Really.” Sapphire tried to bat away his hands, but he wasn’t having any part of that. He made quick work of the buttons of her blouse and slipped the silky fabric off her shoulders. The bra she was wearing was the same color as her blouse, a chocolate, lacy delight that covered her exceptional breasts. His blood pressure shot through the roof, but plummeted again when he caught sight of her shoulders. Already, dark bruises were forming.

“Oh, babe. I’m so sorry I let him do this to you. I should have been faster.”

“It’s not your fault.” She touched the side of his face and he closed his eyes, savoring the moment.

He opened his eyes again. “Where’s your bedroom? You need to get into something soft and loose, while I get an ice pack from the kitchen.”

Chapter Four

Sapphire wasn’t sure when the situation had spiraled out of her control, but it was time to grab it back. “That’s not necessary.” No way was she putting on her nightgown when Jake was still in her apartment. She yanked her blouse back over her shoulders and fastened the top button. She couldn’t believe she’d allowed him to half undress her without protesting.

But really, who could blame her? Her thoughts and emotions were bouncing all over the place. She’d finally come to the conclusion that she wasn’t going to be able to change and had made peace with it. Then Jake had come storming back into her life asking for another shot at their relationship. No, not asking, demanding.

He was frowning at her yet again. “You need an ice pack to keep down the swelling.”

“Then I’ll take care of it. After you leave.” She started to open the door again, but he kicked it closed. Turning, she glared at him. “Stop that.”

“Can’t. I won’t sleep if you don’t let me tend to your injuries. They’re my fault.”

“For heaven’s sake, Jake. The only one at fault is Ivan for being an idiot.”

“You should never have gone out with him.”

She held up her hand to stop his rant before it really got started. “Not. Your. Business.” She spaced the words out so he’d get the message. She was in charge of her life, not him.

A muscle began to pulse beneath his left eye and his jaw hardened. “It is my business. You’re my business.”

She shook her head. “No. Who I date is my concern.”

“I want it to be mine. Hell, I don’t want you dating anyone but me.”

Sapphire wasn’t about to make any rash decisions tonight, not after what she’d been through. Jake had already put her emotions through the wringer and she wasn’t keen on going back for a second round.

But oh, how she wanted to take the plunge. For all his male arrogance and his heavy-handed ways, she loved him. What she wasn’t sure about was whether or not she could trust him with her heart again.

“I’m not making any decisions tonight.”

“Fair enough.” He stood with his legs braced apart and his arms crossed over his massive chest. “But please let me take care of you tonight.” He uncoiled his arms and held up his hands in front of him as if to admit surrender. “Only an ice pack and I’ll leave once you’re tucked into bed.”

She knew he could teach stubborn to a goat and would stand there all night if he had to. His tenacity was one of the things she admired about him even as she recognized it would be a problem in any relationship they had. Still, if it got him gone, she would give in this once.

“Fine. Go wrap some ice in a tea towel and I’ll get changed. Bedroom is on the right.” She turned on her heel and marched off. Even though she didn’t look behind, she could feel his eyes on her as she walked down the short hallway and into her room.

She didn’t release her pent-up breath until she shut the door behind her. Leaning against the wooden panel, she tilted her head back and closed her eyes. This evening had totally gotten out of her control, first with Ivan and now with Jake.

On cue, her shoulders began to ache. She shoved away from the door and made it to the side of the bed. Her legs were shaky so she sat and removed her shoes. Her feet throbbed with relief. There was enough ambient light coming from outside for her to see, but she turned on the small bedside lamp, needing the warmth from its glow for comfort.

She didn’t think Jake would be long in the kitchen and had no desire to be caught in a state of undress. Pushing herself off the bed, she quickly stripped off her skirt and pantyhose. Her blouse and bra quickly followed. She reached for her nightgown, which hung from an antique brass hook on the back of her closet door, and quickly drew it on. She kept her panties on, not wanting to feel quite so undressed in front of Jake. To be on the safe side, she drew her dressing gown on over the nightie.

A low knock sounded on the door. Before she could answer, Jake pushed the door open and walked in. He’d removed his jacket and boots and rolled back the sleeves of his black linen shirt, displaying muscled forearms dusted with a light covering of dark-blond hair. She frowned at him. “You should have waited until I told you to come in.”

His stride slowed and an odd expression crossed his face as though such a thing had never occurred to him. “Next time,” he promised. He had a towel filled with ice in his left hand and motioned toward the bed with his right one. “Get in bed.”

“I’d planned to,” she muttered. Honestly, the man gave new meaning to the word bossy. She pulled down the comforter and sheet and slid into bed. When she was settled, she glanced at him and was surprised to find a sheepish expression on his face.

“I don’t mean to be so pushy,” he began. He raked his free hand through the silky strands of his blond hair, something he did whenever he was upset. She’d spent enough time with him to know some of his habits. His normally cool-blue eyes darkened and warmed. “I’m just worried about you.”

Sapphire found herself softening toward him in spite of her resolve to stay strong. An apology from a man like Jake didn’t happen every day and she relished it, even as she took pleasure in his concern. “No need. It’s only a few bruises.”

All softness disappeared from his expression and was replaced with hard, implacable lines she knew so well. “It’s enough.”

Jake sat on the side of the bed, set the towel aside and tugged at the opening of her dressing gown. Giving into the inevitable, she helped him remove it and tug it out from under her. He folded it and laid it over the end of the bed. Thankfully her nightie had spaghetti straps so there was no need to pull them down to get at the bruises.

“I put the ice in a baggie and wrapped it in a towel so you don’t have to worry about it melting and making a mess.” He gingerly set the towel with the ice on one shoulder.

She flinched and he swore. She was surprised by how much he’d cursed this evening. He normally watched his language around her.

“I know it’s cold, but it will help,” he promised. He tugged the covers around her and brushed back a lock of hair that had escaped from its clip.

Sapphire studied him as he moved the cold compress to her other shoulder. She’d never admit it to him, but he was right. The ice was numbing the pain and easing some of the ache from her bruises.

Jake continued to shift the ice pack from shoulder to shoulder until almost all of the ice had melted. He removed the compress and studied the bruises. “I don’t think they’re too bad, but it will take a while for them to fade.” He tossed the towel onto the nightstand and then leaned over her, bracing his hands on either side of her.

A million butterflies danced in her stomach and her skin felt hot in spite of the ice he’d used on her bruises. She swallowed hard and stared at him.

“I’ve missed you.”

She’d missed him too. So much. But she couldn’t get the words past her lips, wasn’t sure she would even if she could. The pain of his leaving was still too fresh. “What happened? Tell me why you left that night. You said it was because of the darkness inside you. What did you mean by that?”

If they were going to have any kind of chance at all of making this relationship work, then he was going to have to be honest with her from here on out. No more making her decisions for her. She needed to understand what demons he was fighting, what was driving him to act as he did.

He lowered his head and for a second she thought he might kiss her. She wasn’t sure she was ready for that, not yet, not with her emotional barrier so unsteady. Instead, he rested his forehead against hers and sighed. His warm breath fanned over her skin.

“You know what I’ve done for a living.” His voice was so low she had to listen hard to hear him. She sensed that whatever he was about to say wasn’t easy for him, but it was necessary if they were going to start over.

“I do.”

He sat upright and studied her, his gaze probing and intense. “You think you do, but you don’t.”

She shook her head in protest. She wasn’t stupid, nor was she as innocent as he seemed to think she was. “Jake, I know you were a soldier for twenty years. I know that you were a sniper. I can do the math.”

He nodded stiffly and she reached out to him, resting a hand on his forearm. The muscle was taut and hard beneath her palm.

“I know you’ve had to make some hard choices, do some hard things in your career.” She knew he’d killed people. The country had been at war and it was his job to deal with the threat.

His entire body stilled, but there was no mistaking the coiled energy just waiting to explode. “When we got out, John and I started our business.”

And in a short time, Knight Security was gaining a name for itself in certain circles. She was so glad her father had found them when she and Topaz had needed bodyguards.

“But what does that have to do with what happened between us in the bedroom, Jake?” That was what she really needed the answer to. The man sitting next to her was a deeply complex and layered one, with depths she hadn’t truly seen until tonight.

He met her gaze, his blue eyes unflinching. “I don’t like being out of control. Maybe it comes from doing the job I did for such a long time, maybe it’s part of my basic DNA and was strengthened by my career choice. I really don’t know.”

Sapphire stayed quiet, willing him to continue. Only the distant hum of the refrigerator and their light breathing broke the silence for the longest time. She began to wonder if he was going to tell her anything more when he finally began to speak again.

“Do you know what I’m saying to you? Do you understand?” He cupped her face between his hands, rubbing his thumbs over her cheekbones. “I like being in charge of sex. I have to be in charge.”

He’d been intense and demanding the night they’d spent together, but she’d found it oddly exciting. And for sure, she’d never orgasmed with the intensity that she had that night. But what exactly did he mean by being in charge?

“There are things I want to do to you. Things I want you to do to me, for me. I want to strip you naked and fuck you all night long until you won’t ever question who you belong to.”

His words snaked through her blood like molten lava, setting her body on fire for him. But a part of her took a step back. Was this what she wanted? Could she live with his demands, satisfy his needs?

She licked her suddenly dry lips. “What else?”

His chest expanded and contracted on a huge breath. “What else? Anything. Everything. Whatever I want, whenever I want it.” He leaned forward and brushed his lips over hers, the touch barely there, more of a breath than a kiss. “But I’ll never hurt you again, babe. I promise you that. I’m sorry for the bruises I left on your skin that night.” He rested his hand on the comforter over her hips and pressed.

“Bruises?” Did he think he’d physically hurt her?

He frowned. “Don’t deny them. I saw them on your hips where I held you too tight. I also left a beard burn on your breasts.” He shook his head. “Not to mention you flinched every time you moved.”

She couldn’t believe what he was saying, the misconceptions he had of their night together. “Jake, the light rash on my breasts was gone by the time you left. I never even noticed it. As for the bruises, they were light and I honestly can’t remember you holding me too tight.”

She took a deep breath and plunged onward, determined to be totally honest. “And, yes, I was sore. What woman wouldn’t be after a night of intense sex, especially when she’s not used to it. A soak in a warm tub and a day without sex and I was fine.”

His gaze narrowed as if he was trying to determine whether or not to believe her. “I hurt you,” he reiterated. “I won’t do it again.”

But he’d already hurt her. Not physically, as he seemed to be so worried about, but emotionally.

Sapphire shivered, suddenly cold to her very core. Jake was right. There was a darkness seething inside him, but instead of frightening her, it drew her like a moth to a flame. She knew she might get burned but she wasn’t sure she cared. The fire would be so beautiful it might be worth getting singed.

His intensity had roused something deep within her, a dark sensuality she hadn’t even known existed until the night they’d spent together. It would be all too easy to lose herself completely, to allow Jake to take over every aspect of her life, inside the bedroom and out. She had to decide if she was strong enough to hold her ground and not get swallowed up if they had a relationship.

“I need time to think.” And there was no way to do that with Jake sitting so close to her. After only one night together, her body was primed by his nearness, his masculine scent of musk and woodsy soap. The way he looked at her, as though he could eat her up, left her panties damp and her knees weak.

But he’d already left her once. And although she didn’t think he would intentionally hurt her again, she had to be practical. Relationships didn’t always work out. She’d dated and had a few serious liaisons over the years, but none of them had destroyed her the way that Jake’s leaving had done.

If she agreed to give them another chance she had to go into the relationship with both eyes open. She had to somehow guard her heart and not allow it to become any more susceptible than it already was.

Maybe she was fooling herself. Maybe she should just cut her losses and say goodbye for good.

Her heart cried at the very thought and tears filled her eyes.

“Sapphire?” Jake tugged the covers down to her waist. “Let me pleasure you. Let me touch you.” His hand snaked across her stomach and over her waist before dipping in to settle beneath her breasts.

“Let me taste you.” His tongue traced her collarbone, his nose nuzzling along the edge of her nightgown.

“I want to make you come, to hear your moans and those breathy cries you make when you’re aroused. I want to taste your cream when you reach your pleasure and eat it all up.”

Sapphire could barely breathe, mesmerized by the sensual spell Jake was casting over her. He was seducing her with nothing more than words and a light caress.

Her pussy pulsed and she ached for his touch. Her nipples pebbled into hard nubs, easily visible through the fabric of her gown. Jake rubbed his thumb over one of them and she gasped.

“You’re so responsive. So perfect for me,” he praised. “Let me touch you. Taste you.” The intensity of his gaze should have frightened her, but it didn’t. This was Jake and she trusted him not to physically hurt her. She knew from their one night together that he would bring her a pleasure so deep it would almost hurt, but it wouldn’t cross that line.

“That’s as far as it will go. I give you my word.” His gaze met hers and she read the sincerity there. “I’ll leave right after to let you rest and give you time to think.”

She knew what her answer was going to be even before she spoke the one word that would change both their lives forever. Sapphire took a deep breath and slowly exhaled. “Yes.”

Jake rolled off the bed and undid his shirt one button at a time, exposing a broad expanse of muscled flesh when he shrugged it off. Her breath caught in her throat as his chest and abs were exposed. He pulled the covers back, but made no move to remove her nightgown.

She was glad he didn’t try to strip her naked. She wasn’t sure she could have handled that quite yet. The risk she was taking with her heart was enormous and she hoped it didn’t backfire. After only one night with Jake, his leaving had devastated her. What would happen after days or weeks or months together?

It didn’t bear thinking about. For better or worse, she’d made her decision. She only hoped she didn’t live to regret it. Jake would have to take her as she was, but she’d have to do the same with him. Only time would tell if they were making a mistake or not.

Jake settled back on the bed between Sapphire’s legs. He wished to hell he knew what was going on in that nimble brain of hers, but it was impossible to tell. Of course, his throbbing cock wasn’t making thinking very easy.

He couldn’t believe she hadn’t kicked his ass to the curb. Oh, she’d made a couple half-hearted efforts to show him the door, but she hadn’t really ordered him out. He’d come to know her well in the time they’d spent together and he knew what she looked and sounded like when she meant business. Her earlier efforts to eject him had been weak at best.

That gave him hope that there was a chance for them. Of course, he knew he was on borrowed time and that she could change her mind at any moment. Where once she’d been open and willing to give him everything, now she was guarded.

Still, he could make this work. He’d give her so much pleasure she would eventually open up to him again. He would make it work. He had to. Because in the long dark nights he’d spent staring out his living room window, peering at the nothingness that was his life, he knew he needed Sapphire in a way he’d never needed anyone. And that included his twin.

Sapphire smoothed the jagged edges of his soul and gave him a sense of peace he’d thought was lost to him forever. He wasn’t even sure he’d ever really had it, even as a child. Until he’d left her, he hadn’t realized just how much he’d grown to depend on her quiet presence to soothe his inner demons.

Now she’d cracked the door and allowed him back into her life. Okay, so he’d practically battered the door down, but still. He was going to take advantage of the situation to gain his objective.

He lowered himself over her, supporting his weight on his forearms, so their bodies were barely touching. Her breathy gasp gripped his balls in a vise of pleasure.

“You’re so soft.” He brushed his lips over her cheek, down her nose and across her jaw. He’d dominated her the last time. This time he wanted to show her he could be slow and gentle. And he’d do it, even if it killed him.

Her lips parted and he drew his tongue over the bottom one, then the top, tracing their shape. A low moan escaped her mouth and he covered it with his, sliding his tongue inside the hot, moist cavern. He took his time, exploring and tasting, pulling away when his control was tested to the limits.

His arms strained to hold his weight off her and his cock was hard as a railroad spike. But he wasn’t going to come tonight, at least not here with Sapphire. Tonight was all about her. He’d given his word.

He sat back and hooked his fingers in the thin straps of her gown and drew them down to her elbows, exposing her full breasts to his gaze. He was normally more of a leg man than a breast man, but a guy would have to be dead not to appreciate the bounty before him.

Her nipples were taut pink buds, perched on full, round breasts. He gently captured one nipple between his teeth and flicked it with his tongue. Sapphire moaned and moved sensuously beneath him. Her hands caught at his shoulders, her nails scoring his skin in an erotic caress that had his cock head leaking.

He growled and released her nipple, blowing on the tight bud. Then he moved on to the other one. He licked and caressed, using his mouth and hands to arouse her to even greater heights. Her fingers tangled in his hair, dragging him closer, silently urging him on. He wanted to yell and pound his chest with satisfaction.

Sapphire still wanted him.

His jeans grew incredibly tight and his cock ached to the point of pain, but he ignored it, focusing all his attention on Sapphire.

He drew back and lifted the hem of her nightgown, letting his fingers trail over her calves, behind her knees and up the smooth inside of her sleek thighs. He touched an edge of lace and knew she was wearing panties. He shoved the gown up to her waist and grabbed the band of her panties, pulling them down and off, unable to bear having anything between them any longer.

Her dark curls were damp and the pink folds were swollen and moist. “Oh yeah.” He lifted her butt and lowered his head, inhaling her sweet, musky scent before he touched his mouth to her pussy.

Sapphire didn’t know whether to laugh or cry. Every nerve in her body was alive, energized, waiting. Jake was still wearing his jeans, but his torso was bare, allowing her to see and touch his incredible chest. Every muscle was sculpted to perfection by years of hard work. His abs belonged on the cover of some men’s exercise magazine. His broad shoulders tapered down to a trim waist, giving him a chiseled appearance that made her ache to touch him.

Then his tongue caressed the slick folds between her legs and she was lost. She didn’t know what she’d expected, maybe bold and blunt and straight to the point. Instead, his touch was light and gentle, more featherlike as he brushed over her sensitive clit.

She arched her hips. “More,” she groaned. She needed more of his touch. Maybe in the morning when he was gone and she was alone, she’d regret what they were doing. Now, she wanted more, as much as he would give her.

He raised his head and licked his lips. They were moist with her essence and it was a huge turn-on. One corner of his mouth kicked up in a wicked grin before he lowered his mouth back to her heated core.

Sapphire fisted one hand in his hair and the other in her nightgown as she was tortured on the rack of pleasure. His tongue teased her clit, circling the sensitive nub before flicking over it. He explored every pink fold and dark crevice.

He slid two fingers into her tight sheath, parting them to stretch her. Sapphire knew it wouldn’t take much more for her to come. As much as she wanted it to happen, she didn’t want this night to end.

But it was too late to stop the impending explosion. Like a runaway train, her orgasm couldn’t be stopped. Jake flicked her clit at the same time his fingers filled her again and she exploded. Lights flashed behind her eyes. She tipped her head back and arched her hips, crying out as tremors shook her entire body.

How long it lasted, she couldn’t say, but she became aware of her surroundings when she shivered. Now that the moment had passed, the perspiration on her skin was cooling.

Jake released her and pulled the covers up around her shoulders. He kissed her and she could taste herself on his lips. She shivered again and Jake grabbed a throw from a nearby chair and spread that over her as well.

He brushed his hand over her hair and frowned when he touched her hammered silver hairclip. Most of her hair had escaped from the clip, leaving it half down and half up. He removed it and ran his fingers through the thick mass. “That’s better,” he murmured. He set the clip down on the bedside table and reached for his shirt.

She watched him pull it on and button it. He was going to leave, as he’d promised, even though a hard ridge ran down the front of his jeans, leaving no doubt that he was aroused. It would be easy for him to talk her into letting him stay, but neither of them was ready for that yet.

He’d exposed himself emotionally to her and she’d exposed herself physically to him. They both needed to step back. If he was feeling anywhere near as raw as she was, he needed some time alone.

He leaned down and kissed her forehead. “I’ll call you tomorrow.”

“Okay.” She had a lot to think about between now and then. He looked as though he might say something more, but simply nodded instead.

She listened carefully and marked his progression through her apartment. He put on his boots and coat and closed the front door behind him, making sure it was locked. She sighed, knowing she should get up and wash off her makeup. At the very least, she should straighten out her nightgown and turn off the light.

She did neither. She lay there a long, long time, her mind awash with emotions and possibilities. Sapphire recognized the dark and controlling nature that drove Jake and made him the man he was, but she also saw the gentle man who iced her bruises and brought her to sexual satisfaction with no thought for his own.

There would be no easy path for them, no easy solution. Only time would tell what would become of them.

Chapter Five

Jake strode up the sidewalk toward the four-apartment brownstone he co-owned with his brother. John was probably home, but Topaz was more than likely with him. The last thing Jake wanted was to run into Sapphire’s older sister.

He hurried up the front steps and let himself in. Bypassing the first floor, he went up to the second floor, which was all his. John’s apartment took up the entire top floor with the two smaller apartments they rented out occupying the first.

He knew he was still way too keyed up to sleep, his body tense and aroused. Swearing, he pulled off his coat and hung it on a hook by the door. Without bothering to turn on any lights, he headed for the bedroom. What he needed was a shower—preferably a cold one.

Sapphire’s taste was still on his lips and he could almost hear her sweet cries of release echoing in his ears. “Fuck!” He emptied his pockets, tossing his keys, phone and wallet on the dresser. With an economy of movement, he stripped off his clothes, dumped them in the hamper and headed to the master bath.

The tile was cool beneath his bare feet, but his body still felt overheated, his cock hard and hurting. He wanted Sapphire so much it made his teeth ache, but since that wasn’t happening, it was up to him to take care of the problem.

He flicked on the overhead light and squinted until his vision adjusted. His face appeared grim in the mirror, tough and unforgiving. He looked away and started the water running in the shower, letting it flow cool, but not quite cold.

He stepped beneath the spray and sucked in a breath as it flowed over his skin. The water didn’t dim his lust one little bit. He grabbed the soap from the built-in dish and rubbed the bar over his arms and chest, working up a thick lather. Tossing the soap aside, he ran his soapy hands over his belly and then lower.

Gripping his dick in one hand, he closed his eyes and pictured Sapphire as she’d been earlier this evening. Skin flushed a delicate pink, hair wild and tangled across her pillows, neck arched, mouth parted, those lush lips wet and welcoming.

Oh yeah, he could remember every last detail. They were etched on his brain for all eternity. He worked his hand over his cock, hard and fast.

Her breasts swayed when she moved and they were topped with tight nipples, like juicy berries. He licked his lips and kept pumping.

And, man, did she have killer curves. A waist that dipped inward and hips that flared out. And her ass was first class all the way.

His balls drew up closer to his body and the water continued to rain over him, slightly colder than it had been a minute ago.

Her sleek thighs parted in welcome, exposing her wet, pink pussy to him. He licked his lips again, tasting her sweet musky flavor. He could still hear the little noises of pleasure she made when he touched her, licked her, devoured her.

He increased his speed, his hand pumping faster up and down his turgid length. So good, but not nearly enough. It wouldn’t be enough until he was buried balls-deep inside her sweet pussy again.

He gritted his teeth and pictured her orgasm, the sweet cry she’d made, the way she’d abandoned herself totally to it, to him. His cock exploded and he came all over his hand and belly. He kept stroking, kept milking his dick until there was nothing left.

Lungs working hard, he slapped one hand on the tiled wall and let his head fall forward. The water poured over him, like little stinging needles now. He raised his head and embraced the cold, letting it cool the pounding need that still had a stranglehold on his cock. He grabbed the soap and cleaned himself up, not lingering any longer than he had to.

The silence seemed deeper than before when he turned off the water and stepped out. He grabbed a towel and quickly dried off, tossing the wet towel over the bar to dry before padding naked into the bedroom.

The bed beckoned but Jake knew he wouldn’t sleep, not yet. He had too many other things on his mind. He tugged on a pair of faded gray track pants, but didn’t bother with a shirt or socks. Leaving his bed behind, he walked silently down the hallway and into his office. Usually, he found the masculine space relaxing with its dark-green walls, wooden bookshelves and comfortable leather desk chair, but it would take more than that tonight to make him relax.

He was wide awake and figured he would be for hours yet. But that didn’t bother him. He didn’t need a lot of sleep and had long ago learned the art of taking combat naps. He thought about making coffee, but decided it would take too long. He wanted a shot of caffeine and he wanted it now.

Jake sat at his desk, flicked on the lamp and turned on his computer. While he was waiting for it to boot up, he reached into the mini fridge that sat next to his desk and pulled out a can of cola. He popped the top and took a long swallow, enjoying the cold beverage as it flowed down his throat.

Sapphire was still foremost in his thoughts and he glanced at the picture propped up on one corner of his solid oak desk. It was one he’d taken last year, the first time he’d been her bodyguard. She was standing in the park on a beautiful sunny day, wearing a flowing dress with small printed flowers all over it, her long, curly hair blowing in the breeze. But it was the smile on her face that always captured his attention. It was intimate and mischievous, as if she knew a secret that the rest of the world wasn’t privy to. He gently touched his finger to her cheek and then settled in to work.

There was a lot he had to learn about Ivan Gregor. He didn’t trust the bastard, not one bit. He’d seen the way the guy had looked at Sapphire before he’d left. He was angry, but more than that, he’d felt deprived, as though he was entitled to have her simply because he wanted her.

Jake had run across his kind before and knew Gregor wouldn’t stop until he felt he’d gotten what he deserved. Wasn’t going to happen. Sapphire belonged to him and Jake knew how to protect what was his.

He had friends in high and low places too, probably more trustworthy ones than Gregor had, and would call in whatever favors were owed him to keep Sapphire safe. But there was a lot he could do on his own. The authorities might be constrained by the law, but he wasn’t. “Let’s see what you’ve been up to, Ivan.” Jake hunched over his keyboard and went to work.

The sun was rising when he leaned back and studied the screen in front of him. He had pages of research that his printer had spit out in a neat pile. Gregor was definitely working the shady side. There had been questions about some of his land acquisitions and developments from concerned citizens groups, accusations of bribery, complaints from other developers, but no charges had ever been laid.

He’d have to dig into Gregor’s finances to find out more. It was illegal as hell, but Jake didn’t care. His only concern was keeping the bastard away from Sapphire. If Gregor stayed away from her, he wouldn’t have any problems. If he approached her again, Jake wanted the ammunition ready to turn Gregor’s life into a shit storm. Neither the politicians nor the mafia would take kindly to having their laundry aired in public. If Gregor wasn’t careful, he could end up in jail or worse. Some of the boys Gregor was alleged to have done business with didn’t exactly play nice.

He reached into his desk drawer, pulled out a disposable phone and dialed a number he knew by heart. It was to another disposable phone that would be tossed once this job was done. Then his friend would send him his new number.

“Yeah.” The voice on the other end was gruff, but alert.

“I’ve got a job if you’re interested.” He’d known the other man for years and trusted him to do the job right. Neither of them used names, and wouldn’t. They were both careful as hell. Some would say paranoid, but those folks didn’t know what they did—the government or someone else was always listening.

“Go.”

“Ivan Gregor. Stockbroker. Dirty, but there’s no concrete proof I can find, not yet.”

“You want him taken out?”

Jake almost smiled. His buddy had a very simple view of the world. If you had a problem, you got rid of it, permanently.

“No. I want you to follow him. I want to know where he goes and who he sees.” Jake paused before adding, “This is personal.” He rattled off Ivan’s home and work address. “I’m sending you a picture of him and one of a woman. If Gregor gets anywhere near her let me know right away. Her safety is top priority.”

“I’m on it.” There was a click and then the line went dead. Jake hung up, knowing that end was being handled. His job was to keep Sapphire safe.

He pushed out of his desk chair and stretched his arms over his head. A bone snapped and his muscles protested. He rubbed his hand over his jaw and figured it was time to have a shave and get dressed. He could catch a nap later if he needed one.

But first, he needed coffee and fuel. He ambled out to the kitchen, which was large by New York standards. The granite countertops and the stainless steel appliances gleamed. The coffeepot was new and fast. He might not cook much, but he needed his coffee.

When he had a pot brewing, he wandered over to the dining room window and peered out over the city. He wondered if Sapphire had slept at all last night. On impulse, he went into his bedroom, grabbed his phone and punched in her number. It was just past six, but she’d always been an early riser.

“Hello.” Her sleepy, sultry voice had his cock rising to full attention in a heartbeat.

“Hey.” He wasn’t quite sure what he wanted to say, he only knew that he needed to hear her voice.

“Are you okay?” He could hear rustling in the background and knew she was still in bed. He swallowed hard. She would be tousled and warm, surrounded by her soft sheets and comforter, still wearing that sexy-as-sin nightie she’d worn last night. His cock stirred and he wished he were there with her.

“I’m okay. Just called to make sure you were.”

“I’m good.”

The conversation was stilted, which wasn’t like them at all. They’d never lacked for something to talk about before. “I probably shouldn’t have called this early.” He should say goodbye and hang up.

He went back out to the kitchen, took down a large black mug and filled it almost to the brim with the fragrant brew.

“No, that’s okay. I was awake anyway. Just trying to convince myself to get up.” More fabric rustled in the background. He could easily picture her silky nightgown falling over her legs as she climbed out of bed. He could hear her walking now.

“What are you doing?”

She gave a little laugh. “Going to the kitchen to put on coffee. I can’t think before I’ve had coffee.”

“I’ve got some at my place.” He took a sip and made a sound of satisfaction.

“Beast.” She ran water and then he could hear her pouring it. A few more seconds of silence and then she gave a satisfied sigh. “That won’t take long.” She paused and he could almost see her trying to figure out how to broach the subject of what had happened last night.

“I want to see you today.” Better to take the bull by the horns and state what he wanted. If she said no, he could try to work around her objections.

“I have a meeting this morning and I really need to work this afternoon.”

“Tonight, for dinner. We can go out or I can pick something up and we can eat in.”

Sapphire paused. “Okay. Call me later and we can decide then what we’d rather do.”

Jake smiled, feeling as though he could take on the world. “Sounds good to me. And Sapphire.” He waited until he was sure he had her full attention. “Thank you for giving me, for giving us, a second chance. You won’t regret it.”

“I hope not.” There was worry in her voice and he knew he hadn’t come anywhere near to winning this battle yet. But he was back on the playing field and that was all that mattered.

“Have a good day, babe.” He hesitated, not wanting to worry her, but his concern for her safety overrode all else. “And watch out for Ivan Gregor. I don’t trust him.” The fact he had a buddy watching Gregor gave him some peace of mind. The bastard wouldn’t get near her without his knowing about it.

“I’ll be careful. I don’t think I’ll be hearing from him again.”

Jake didn’t agree with her assumption. He knew men like Gregor a lot better than she did. “Call me if you get the least bit worried. Promise me.” His grip tightened around the phone and he had to force himself to relax before he broke the damn thing.

“I will. Coffee is done. Have a good day.”

“You too.” He waited until she ended the call before signing off.

He decided he was on a roll and hit another button. He picked up his coffee and strode into his living room. It was a masculine domain, filled with sturdy, comfortable furniture and a large flat-screen television. His favorite chair—a slightly battered brown monster—beckoned, so he sat down and put his feet up on the matching ottoman. The call was answered on the first ring.

“What in tarnation are you doing calling an old man this early in the morning?” The voice was gruff and as familiar as his own.

“You don’t sleep anyway, old man.” His grandfather had raised John and him from the tender age of six. A retired army man, Bernard Knight was rough and tough, but there had never been any doubt he’d loved his grandsons.

His grandfather laughed. “What are you doing up this early?”

“Working.” He took another sip of coffee and set the mug on the small table that sat next to his chair.

“Huh.” His grandfather was also an astute man. “Might be more than work, I’m thinking.”

“Might be.” But it wasn’t something he wanted to talk about. Not yet. His grandfather had already met Topaz when John had brought her home to meet him and loved her, but he had yet to meet Sapphire.

“Anything you need help with?” That was his grandfather, solid as bedrock. Jake knew the eighty-two-year-old would jump in his ’68 Camaro and speed over from Brooklyn if Jake needed him.

“I’m good for now, Granddad. I’ll let you know.”

“You do that, boy.”

They talked for a few more minutes, discussing cars and the upcoming wedding. Neither of them was thrilled at having to put on tuxedoes, but they’d do it for John. After he ended the call, he got to thinking about Sapphire. If they got married, she’d want a fancy ceremony too.

He thought about making a commitment to her, of tying their lives together forever. Usually the mention of something like that would send him walking in the other direction. He’d never been serious about a woman before in his life.

But with Sapphire, it felt…right. More than that, it felt necessary. He wanted his ring on her finger to warn all other men away from her. Old-fashioned for sure, but he couldn’t help it.

First things first. He needed to win back her trust. And for that, he needed to tone down the dark side of himself. He would bury it forever if it meant having Sapphire in his bed for the rest of his life.

He’d discovered in the weeks he’d spent without her just how necessary she’d become to his life. Like air, he needed her to breathe. If that meant he had to change, then he damn well would. There really wasn’t any other option for him. He’d tried living without her and that was just plain hell.

He finished his coffee and set his mug by the pot, planning on another one once he shaved and dressed. His phone rang just as he entered the bedroom. He glanced at the number and answered. “What do you want?”

“Good morning to you too, brother. You wake up on the wrong side of the bed? Not that you seem to have a right side these days.”

“I love you too. Now what do you want, John?” He continued into the bathroom, staring at his face in the mirror, wondering if he could skip shaving. He ran his free hand over the dark stubble on his jaw. No, he definitely needed to shave, especially since he was meeting Sapphire later today.

“Breakfast. Topaz is meeting her sister at eight so she’s not eating at home. Thought you might like to hit Maloney’s for breakfast.”

So that’s who Sapphire was meeting this morning. Jake wondered why she hadn’t told him. It bothered him slightly, but he let it go. If she was with her sister in a public place, she was safe. He wondered if she’d tell her older sister what was going on between them. He hoped not. He liked his balls where they were and Topaz wouldn’t hesitate to bust them if she thought he’d hurt her baby sister. He liked that about her.

“Jake?”

“Yeah, I’ll be ready in a half hour. Come on down when you’re ready.” Maloney’s was a favorite of both of theirs. It was a greasy diner that made the best food in the world, if you weren’t worried about your fat intake and cholesterol. It was also loud and busy, not a place where they could talk about too much personal stuff. It was perfect.

“Will do.” John hung up and Jake tossed his phone onto the bathroom counter. He picked up his razor and turned it on. He wondered what Sapphire was doing and started counting down the hours until he could see her again.

Chapter Six

Sapphire loved Althea’s Bakery, but this morning she needed it like a drowning man needs a life preserver. Chocolate and coffee were a must after the night she’d had. Her life had taken a complete one-eighty in the past twenty-four hours. She’d gone from changing her personal style and lifestyle completely to deciding she liked herself the way she was and that the fast-paced dating life wasn’t for her. She’d gone from knowing Jake was no longer a part of her life, to having him come barreling back into it. Was it any wonder she needed a chocolate éclair?

The bakery was busy with people grabbing a coffee and some sinful treat, but most were taking their order to go, hurrying in and out on their way to work. Only a few other tables were occupied. Sapphire settled at her favorite table in the corner near the window. She loved people-watching. Sometimes she got her best ideas for her jewelry designs from something or someone she saw passing by.

Today, she paid no attention to the hustle and bustle she usually enjoyed, her mind completely occupied by Jake Knight. She went over and over everything he’d said last night. She didn’t doubt his honesty, only his reasoning. She also didn’t like the fact he’d made a decision about her life, one that was really hers to make. He truly believed he’d hurt her with his physical demands that first night and had done what he’d thought was best for her.

But if that was the case, what had changed to make him think a relationship between them was possible? Could both of them change enough to make things work? Was that even realistic or would one or both of them just end up miserable?

And then there was the question of Jake’s dark side, his need to control things in the bedroom. What did that really mean? And was she ready to know the answer? So many questions and no easy answers.

A few minutes later, a flash of color outside the window caught her eye. Her sister was striding down the street toward the bakery. There was no missing Topaz with her bold gold jacket and black pencil skirt and heels that topped her out at over six feet. Her black hair was short and sassy, her expression all business. Her sister drew people’s eyes wherever she went. They also got out of her way.

Sapphire had tucked away her worries and was smiling by the time Topaz entered the bakery and made her way across the room. “Sorry I’m late. I got…detained.” The way she said it left Sapphire no doubt that it was her soon-to-be husband who had detained her. Topaz had a lovely glow to her cheeks that Sapphire didn’t think all came from the crisp morning air.

“No problem. I haven’t been here long.”

Topaz dropped her oversized bag onto an empty chair before taking her seat. She flicked open the button on her jacket to reveal a black camisole trimmed with lace. Her sister always looked so put together.

Sapphire glanced down at her jeans, low-heeled leather boots and the blue cashmere sweater she wore. She was comfortable, but no one would ever accuse her of being a fashion icon. The only area where she was a fashion leader was when it came to accessories. Already this morning, she’d had one woman ask her where she got the hammered silver bracelet that adorned her wrist. She was always happy to direct potential customers to Sisters’ Jewels.

“I got you a coffee and an éclair.”

Topaz raised an eyebrow before picking up the chocolaty treat and taking a bite. “What’s the occasion?” she asked after she enjoyed the first taste.

Sapphire shrugged. “Mostly because I felt like one.”

Topaz frowned and wiped her hands on a paper napkin. “What’s wrong? And don’t say nothing. You’ve been saying that for weeks and I’ve let you. But no more.”

Sapphire shrugged, not quite sure where to begin. Usually she and her sister shared everything, but it wasn’t so easy with Jake and John being brothers. She didn’t want to put Topaz in the middle of her problems with Jake.

Topaz reached out and touched her hand. “Whatever it is, I’m on your side.”

Tears pricked Sapphire’s eyes, but she managed a slight smile. “I know. I’ve just been going through some stuff, but I’m mostly over it now.”

“Does that mean you’re going to dump most of the clothes you’ve bought lately?”

Sapphire sat up straighter and bristled with annoyance. “You don’t like them? I thought you’d like the fact I was taking more interest in clothes.”

“Oh, sweetie, I would if I thought it was making you happy.” Topaz leaned her elbows on the table and rested her chin on her hands. “You’ve seemed determined, driven almost, but not happy.”

Sapphire sighed and rubbed her forehead, hoping the coffee and chocolate would help stave off the threatening headache forming behind her eyes. “Yeah, well, it was an experiment, but you’ll be pleased to know I’m done with it.” As soon as she got home, she would be bagging up all her latest purchases and hauling them down to the local consignment store. No more trying to be something she wasn’t.

“I’m glad if you are. But, Sapphire, you haven’t been happy, not in a while now. Emerald called me last night to ask if anything was wrong. You haven’t called her in a week and she hasn’t been able to get hold of you.”

And now she was feeling guilty. Yes, she’d been avoiding both her older sisters, mostly because she didn’t know what to say to them. She didn’t want to talk about Jake with either of them. Her emotions were too volatile.

“I’ve been busy.” Great, now she sounded defensive.

Topaz sipped her coffee, her eyes filled with concern. “Just know I’m here for you whenever you want to talk.”

The knot in her stomach lessened somewhat. “I know. And thanks.” She could always depend on her sisters. “I’m just not ready yet.”

“Fair enough.” Topaz set her cup back on the table. “Now what have you got for me?”

More than ready to drop the subject of her personal life, Sapphire dug into the oversized leather purse she used instead of a briefcase and pulled out a folder. Her personal life might have been in turmoil for the past weeks, but not her professional one. She drew out the sketches she’d been working on and handed them to her sister. They were extremely different for her, the jewelry more industrial, more masculine, instead of her trademark feminine.

“I know we’re doing Emerald’s ‘farmhouse seasons’ line over the next year.” Her sister had designed some beautiful pastoral scenes for their trademark journals, stationery, greeting cards, scarves and accessories. They’d have four lines in the next year, starting with the summer line. Each season would have new pieces. It was an ambitious and exciting undertaking.

It was Sapphire’s job to design and create the jewelry to go with the line. “You’ve already seen the pieces I’ve planned to go with that line.” She’d created floral pins and jeweled bracelets that looked like clusters of wildflowers. Necklaces, anklets, chokers, hair clips and rings as well. It was all very feminine and beautiful.

This new line she’d been playing with was edgier than anything she’d ever done for Sisters’ Jewels. If Topaz didn’t think it was right for the boutique, she might try to shop it around to some other retailers. She’d already done one mass-produced line for a major department store and it had done so well they’d come looking for more designs. She was still considering her options.

Topaz studied each design carefully before shuffling the page to the next one. Sapphire hadn’t felt this nervous about her work in years. It was the one part of her life where she’d always been confident. But this was such a departure for her.

She might kid herself, but she knew Jake was the inspiration for the line. He was so masculine and tough and urban. She’d been drawn to make jewelry pieces that reflected his strength and solidity and that meant industrial, but with a twist. Instead of just using silver as she usually did, she’d used copper and brass and stainless steel as well.

Sapphire reached into her tote and pulled out a sample bracelet. “This is one of the designs. I haven’t had time to try all of them yet.” And she probably should have waited until she’d had a prototype of everything, but she’d been so excited about the new work she’d had to show it to someone.

Topaz set down the designs and took the bracelet. It was made with links of brass, copper and stainless steel, woven together in an intricate design. Topaz slipped on the cuff and studied it.

“Well?” Sapphire couldn’t wait any longer.

“It’s very different for you,” Topaz began.

Sapphire bit her bottom lip and tried not to let her disappointment show. “You don’t like it.”

Topaz shook her head. “No, I don’t.” Sapphire’s stomach plummeted, but her sister wasn’t done yet. “I don’t like it. I love it.”

The corners of Sapphire’s mouth turned upward into a huge grin. “You do?”

“How could I not? It’s incredible.” She gestured to the stack of designs. “They all are.”

Sapphire sat back, picked up her éclair and took a huge bite, savoring the creamy filling and dark, rich chocolate. Then she had a sip of coffee to wash it all down. “I’m so glad you love them.”

“I really do.”

But Sapphire could hear something else in her sister’s voice and some of her jubilation faded. “But?”

“But I’m not sure it’s right for Sisters’ Jewels. We’ve made our reputation on being feminine and soft and colorful.”

Her excitement came crashing down. “Oh. Well, that’s okay.” And it really was. They’d decided from the beginning what they’d wanted the vision for the boutique to be and they’d kept to it, becoming very successful.

Topaz lifted her arm and let the light catch the gleaming copper. “The way I see it, we have two options. The first one is that you offer these designs to someone else.” She lowered her arm and smiled at Sapphire. “I know your first independent line has sold well enough that they want another one from you.”

“How did you know?” They’d only contacted her a week ago.

Topaz laughed. “I have my sources. In this case it was the accessories buyer who called the store looking for you. She was so excited about the prospect of having you do another line for them, she couldn’t quite rein herself in.”

“What’s the other option?” Sapphire was curious to know what her sister had in mind. She sipped her coffee, which had cooled considerably.

“There’s a stock room we don’t really use much near the back of the store. I’ve been thinking about cleaning it out and knocking down a wall to create more space. Originally, I’d thought about simply expanding our existing stock, but we could use it to try more edgy designs. We could simply remove the door, widen the opening and design it more like the customer is stepping into another space. Above it, we could put a sign that says ‘Sisters’ Jewels Urban’, or something like that. I could talk to Emerald about doing some designs that would match the jewelry. We’re talking a year and a half down the road, maybe two, in order to do the renovations and give you and Emerald time to complete all the designs and have the products ready, but it’s doable.”

Sapphire grabbed her sister’s hand. “I love the idea. Let’s do it.”

“Really, you don’t mind waiting?” Topaz tapped the bracelet with her free hand. “You’d sell a lot of these through a major department store.”

Sapphire laughed. “I’d rather sell a lot of them though Sisters’ Jewels. More profit for us. Isn’t that what you always preach?”

A slow smile crossed Topaz’s face. “That’s what I always preach. I’ll call Emerald tonight and talk to her. As soon as you’ve completed your designs, you can send them to her along with a few pieces so she knows what she’s working with.”

The smile left Topaz’s face and she turned her hand so she was holding Sapphire’s. “Are you sure you can’t tell me what’s wrong?”

Sapphire was caught so off guard, she almost blurted it out. Topaz was sneaky, letting her lower her guard before pouncing. At the last second, she pursed her lips together and shook her head.

“It’s man trouble, though, I can tell. When a woman changes her entire wardrobe and starts dating practically every night of the week, it can only mean one thing—some guy hurt you.” Topaz sighed and sat back. “But I won’t pry. I promised myself I wouldn’t. But I’m here if you need me.”

“Thanks. I’m working things out.” At least she hoped she was. Opening herself up to be emotionally crushed again by Jake might not be the smartest thing she’d ever done, but she wasn’t sure she had any other choice.

If she didn’t try, she’d always have regrets. But she would guard her heart a lot more closely this time. After what had happened between them, she was more hesitant to open herself up emotionally.

“Good enough. Now, do you have time to run down to the boutique with me before you head back to your studio? The stock for the summer line just arrived and I want you to see the new in-store displays before we open. Plus, I wanted to know if you had any ideas about the window arrangement. Your new jewelry looks magnificent on display.”

“Sure. I’d love to.”

Her mind on work, Sapphire gathered up her belongings and headed out with Topaz. But Jake was never too far away from her thoughts.

As they walked down the sidewalk, Sapphire realized just how much she’d distanced herself from her sister these past weeks. That had to change. Her sister was engaged, was getting married and this was a happy time in all their lives.

It was time for her to stop being so self-involved and selfish. She might have had her heart broken by Jake, but his brother was making Topaz very happy and that was all that mattered.

“So tell me about the wedding plans. Have you talked John into wearing a tuxedo yet?”

Topaz laughed, not noticing how several men turned their heads to watch her as she walked by. But Sapphire noticed and grinned. “And what about your dress? Any possibilities?”

Topaz hooked their arms together and lowered her head in a conspiratorial manner. “Well, there was one I saw in a window of that bridal boutique just a block from the store…”

* * *

Jake sipped coffee and watched his brother. John looked relaxed and happy, something Jake was very glad to see even if he was slightly envious. “So how are the wedding plans going?”

John grinned. “I just nod and agree a lot.” He leaned back in the booth and raised his mug in salute. “Honestly though, Topaz has it all under control. All I have to do is rent the tux and show up where she tells me.”

“No second thoughts?” His brother seemed so sure their relationship would work. Jake wished he was half as confident as John.

John sat forward and set his mug down on the chipped tabletop. “What do you mean?”

Jake dragged a hand through his hair. “Well, fuck. We don’t exactly have a sparkling bright past.” Both of them had joined the army straight out of high school, going on to become Army Rangers. They’d both spent years overseas fighting.

John shrugged. “The past is the past. It’s what I’m building now that matters.”

He wished he could be so blasé about things as John, but there was a darkness inside him that some days threatened to swallow him whole. He had to learn to control it if he was going to have any kind of relationship with Sapphire.

“What’s wrong?”

Jake looked over the table at an almost mirror image of himself. He’d grown his hair out while John still kept his military short, but they both shared the same height and build, the same blue eyes, high forehead and lips. His twin was his best friend, had been to hell and back with him, but this wasn’t something he could share. “Nothing.”

“Bullshit.” He also couldn’t hide anything from his brother who knew his moods all too well.

Jake turned the mug in his hands and stared down at the dark coffee, wishing there was an easy explanation or answer to his problem.

“It’s Sapphire, isn’t it?”

Jake’s head snapped up and he frowned. “What are you talking about?” Had he been that obvious? Had Topaz said anything to his brother?

“Man, you’re talking to me, the guy who was gone over Topaz. I recognize the symptoms of a man stuck on one of the Jewel sisters. I saw the way you looked at her when she wasn’t looking.” John leaned forward and rested his elbows on the table. “What’s wrong? Did she turn you down?”

Jake closed his eyes as erotic memories assailed him. Maybe it would be easier for him if she had turned him down. Maybe he would have had the strength to walk away and never go back. Yes, he’d said goodbye, but he’d never really left her. She’d haunted his every waking and sleeping hour until he’d thought he’d go mad with wanting her.

“Is it because of who her parents are?” John asked.

Funny how he’d never even considered the fact that her parents were famous singers from the seventies. Sapphire had always simply been the most beautiful woman he’d ever seen in his life, and the most gentle and kind soul he’d ever known. “No, I don’t give a shit who her parents are.”

“Then what’s the problem?”

Before Jake could answer, the waitress arrived at their corner booth with their breakfast order. She glanced at John and then at him, giving a little sigh before she set their plates in front of them. John grinned at him. They were used to getting that kind of reaction when they were out together. People didn’t see twins all that often.

“Can I get you anything else?” She glanced hopefully at him and then at his brother. She was in her early thirties, dark hair, trim figure in her dark skirt and white top, and friendly smile, but it did absolutely nothing for Jake. There wasn’t a twinge of attraction. He knew he should be worried, but he honestly didn’t care. He knew Sapphire was it for him. If he couldn’t have her, he didn’t want any other woman.

“No thanks. We’re good.” Jake was glad his brother answered. He wasn’t in the mood to make small talk.

“If you need anything else…” She let her offer hang in the air.

“We’ll let you know,” John promised.

The waitress walked away, but glanced over her shoulder once before heading off to serve other customers. Jake noticed several other patrons surreptitiously looking their way, but ignored them. They were no threat, merely curious.

“Jake, talk to me, man.” His brother wasn’t going to give up anytime soon. He could either talk or leave.

“No, she didn’t turn me down.”

John started to smile, but it quickly turned into a frown. “Then what’s the problem? You didn’t hurt her, did you?” His brother straightened and glared at him.

“No, I didn’t hurt her,” he muttered, though he felt a twinge of guilt. “What the hell do you think I am?” That wasn’t quite true, but Sapphire seemed to think the bruises he’d left on her that night were inconsequential.

“Sorry, man, but you’re starting to freak me out. If you’re into her and she likes you, then what the hell is wrong?”

“It’s me,” he blurted out. “I left her after the first night we spent together.”

“You did what?” His brother didn’t shout. No, John’s voice got lower and deeper the angrier he became.

“What the fuck was I supposed to do?” He kept his voice low, not wanting anyone to overhear their conversation. He shouldn’t have started this. “Look, I should go.”

John clamped his hand over Jake’s arm. “Not until you tell me what happened. How badly did you screw things up?”

“Bad. But I talked to her last night.” They did more than talk, but that wasn’t any of John’s business.

His brother slowly released his iron grip and sat back. “We’ll that’s something. What is wrong with you?”

He knew they could talk or they could fight. Either way it wasn’t going to be fun. He pressed his thumb and forefinger against his eyes, searching for the right words. “What we did for all those years. It changed me, John.”

Concern filled his brother’s face. “What do you mean? You have flashbacks or nightmares?”

He shook his head. “Nothing like that.” He absently rubbed his chest. “I’ve lived most of my life in the shadows.” He thought about all the men he’d killed over the years. “Death and I are on a first name basis. And Sapphire is so good and gentle.” He really wasn’t about to tell his brother how he liked to dominate in the bedroom. He wasn’t into anything kinky, but he needed his woman to submit to him totally, had to know she belonged to him and only him. That wasn’t anyone’s business but his own, and Sapphire’s if she agreed to let him back into her life.

“And you don’t want to hurt her.”

That was the best explanation and Jake went with it. “Exactly. I left her because I thought that was for the best.” He looked at his brother and shrugged. “But I’m not sure I can live without her.”

“We know how to fight for what we want. Isn’t that what you told me?” Jake hated the fact that John was throwing his own words back at him.

“Yeah, I’m a real philosopher.” Jake took a swallow of coffee. Their meal was getting colder by the second, but he wasn’t hungry.

“Sapphire is tougher than you might think.” John picked up his fork and speared a piece of bacon. “Topaz has been telling me a lot about their childhood and how she and her sisters started their business together. Yeah, Sapphire might be the youngest of the group, but she’s far from naïve.” He popped the bacon into his mouth and chewed.

“I know she’s not naïve. Sapphire is smart and funny and drop-dead gorgeous.” Everything about her was perfect for him. He liked talking with her. Sometimes they agreed on stuff and other times they didn’t. There was enough difference to keep things interesting. He loved the way she found everything about life fascinating, whether it was a new restaurant or random strangers she watched walk down the street. He saw potential threats, while she simply saw potential. That in itself showed the stark difference between them.

John swallowed a mouthful of eggs. “We’re Knights. We do what needs to be done. If you truly want Sapphire, then do whatever you need to do to make it work. If she’s anything like her sister, it will be well worth the effort.”

“You’re that happy?”

“Topaz is the best thing that ever happened to me.” John pointed his fork at his brother. “Don’t let Sapphire slip through your fingers. You’ll regret it the rest of your life.”

No need to tell his brother how much he already regretted the mess he’d made of things. If not for him, Sapphire wouldn’t have started dating and Ivan Gregor would never have come into her life. That situation was on him and he’d make damn sure he cleaned that mess up.

He thought about telling John about the possible threat, but decided to keep it to himself for now. If he told John, then his brother would feel duty-bound to tell Topaz. And Sapphire wouldn’t appreciate her sister being worried about her.

He had a man on it and would watch Sapphire himself. No need to concern his brother any more than he already had.

Jake knew that John didn’t really understand where he was coming from. He’d been born with shadows on his soul. It was part of what had made him so fucking good as a sniper. He was more primal and basic, less civilized than his brother.

Even now, he’d rather confront Gregor face-to-face, beat him within an inch of his life for hurting Sapphire and promise to finish the job if he didn’t leave her alone.

Instead, he was trying to be civilized, searching for information he could anonymously send to the proper authorities to get Gregor out of Sapphire’s life for good without implicating her at all.

The waitress returned, hovering by their table, coffeepot in hand. “More coffee?”

“Sure.” Jake held out his mug, thanking her when she filled it. After she topped up John’s mug, she hovered for another few seconds before leaving them alone again.

Jake stared at his brother, seeing the newfound sense of satisfaction that surrounded him. He wanted that for himself. Resolve hardened inside him. He wanted Sapphire in his life more than he’d ever wanted anything. He’d find a way to make it work, no matter what he had to do to accomplish it.

Suddenly hungry, he picked up his fork and dug into the plate full of bacon and eggs. He was glad for the quiet, needing time to think. That was one of the best things about being twins, about being so close. Neither of them minded the silence.

After he’d satisfied the worst of his hunger, he decided it was time to turn the conversation back to his brother. “Tell me more about this tux I’m going to have to wear.”

John smiled at him and leaned back, mug in hand. “Well, bro, it’s going to fancy up even a sorry sight like yourself. You might even want to get a haircut.”

Jake laughed. “I’ll wear the suit, but the hair stays.”

Chapter Seven

Jake decided to go over to Sapphire’s apartment rather than call her. They could go out if she wanted to, or they could order in if she wanted to stay home. Either way worked for him.

He let himself into the lobby and hit the buzzer for her place. She answered a few seconds later. “Yes.”

“It’s Jake.”

“I thought you were going to call.”

“Figured this was easier.” He waited a few seconds. “You going to let me come up?”

“Oh yes. Right.” The buzzer sounded and he pulled open the door.

He was just stepping into the elevator when his phone rang. “Yeah.” He absently hit the button for Sapphire’s floor.

The voice on the other end was the one he’d been waiting to hear from all day. “So far your boy is boring. Gregor went to work, had lunch with a couple of guys from the office. I’m sending you pictures. After work, he went home and hasn’t gone out since.”

“Keep on him until you’re sure he’s not going out.” Even though he was with Sapphire, he’d rather know where Gregor was.

“Will do.”

“Thanks, man. I deposited your fee into your account this morning.”

“Got it.”

The line went dead. Neither of them liked talking on cell phones. You never knew who might be listening.

The elevator door opened and he stepped out. His heart was beating faster at the thought of seeing Sapphire. He’d missed her today. Squaring his shoulders, he knocked on her door. It opened almost immediately and there she was, a vision in dark-gray trousers, low-heeled shoes and a long-sleeved sweater the color of oatmeal. Her long curly hair hung down her back and her makeup was minimal.

There was his Sapphire. “Hey.” He leaned down and dropped a quick kiss on her lips. “How was your day?” He stepped inside and shut the door.

She shrugged. “Good. Had a meeting with Topaz this morning and spent the afternoon working on designs and some new pieces.”

“Can I see?” He loved her work. It was so feminine and beautiful and innately Sapphire.

“You want to see it?” Her surprise was almost funny, but it made his gut clench.

“Of course I want to see it. You do great work, babe.” He knew her jewelry sold incredibly well at the boutique, and she’d even had an independent line at a major department store.

“Okay.” She turned and went down the short hall to the room on the left. He tried not to look into her bedroom as they passed by and remember what they’d done there last night.

“Have you decided if you want to stay in or go out for dinner?” Jake watched the sexy sway of her ass as she walked in front of him.

“Out. I even changed out of my work clothes.”

Her wry comment amused him. The last couple weeks aside, he knew Sapphire much preferred to be wearing jeans or leggings instead of trousers and heels. “You look amazing, babe.” He didn’t care what she wore. She always looked good to him.

She turned just inside her studio door. “I thought a lot about us today, Jake.”

“And.” Tension crept into his body and his voice.

“And, we spend all our time at my place. I wouldn’t even know where you live if Topaz hadn’t given me John’s address when she moved in with him.” Hands on her hips, she appeared solemn and thoughtful. “I want to know more about you. I need to know more if this thing between us is going to have a chance.”

She didn’t know what she was asking of him. He’d always been secretive, closed-mouthed about his private life, but that had grown almost into obsession over the past twenty years. He also knew he had no choice. He had to let Sapphire in, had to let her see all of him if they were going to have a chance in hell of making it.

He only hoped that she could accept him as he was and that learning more about him wouldn’t scare her off. He was no clean-cut businessman. He was the guy other people went to when the hard jobs needed doing. And he was damn good at it. In fact, Uncle Sam had wanted him to stay on as an instructor, teaching the new generation of soldiers, but he’d declined, knowing he’d already lost too much of his soul in the protection of his country. Not that he regretted it. No, he was proud of his service. It was simply someone else’s turn to bear the burden.

“Sure, we can go to my place. We can pick up something on the way if you want. I don’t think there’s much there to eat.”

“Really?” Sapphire gifted him with a delighted smile and he realized she’d expected him to put her off, to say no.

“Really.” He went to her and gathered her in his arms, unable to resist for one more minute. Her head fit nicely below his chin and he rocked her gently from side to side. She sighed and put her hands around his waist.

He wanted to yell and beat his chest like a conquering hero. Instead, he kissed the top of her head, inhaling the citrus scent of her shampoo and the lighter floral of her body lotion. He knew she didn’t wear perfume, but she always smelled so damn good. He could eat her up.

His cock flexed in agreement and he was careful not to press his hips against hers, afraid she might step back if she knew how damn much he wanted her. “Show me your jewelry.” If he didn’t do something to take his mind off her sinful scent and delectable curves, they were never going to make it out of her apartment. In the short term, they’d both enjoy themselves, but he sensed it was very important to her to see his place. So therefore it was important to him that she get what she wanted.

He could wait. He was good at it.

She dropped her arms and walked over to a workbench. “This is one of the new pieces.” She held it out to him.

It was very different from anything she’d ever shown him before, more masculine and edgy. The various metals formed a pattern that reminded him of the pipes in an industrial power plant. But it was much more artistic and pleasing to the eye.

She was chewing on her bottom lip, a nervous gesture he recognized from their time together. As her bodyguard, he’d learned a lot about her and her moods, and that gave him an advantage. For some reason, she was nervous about what he thought of her work.

“It’s incredible.” And it was. Different, but it had the same sense of completeness and style that all her pieces had. “Not your usual design.” Sapphire’s jewelry was deeply feminine, dipping into fantasy.

“No, it’s something different I wanted to try. Topaz and I talked about opening up another space in the store, a storage room we barely use, and create a Sisters’ Jewels Urban, a place for edgier pieces. She’s going to approach Emerald about doing some complementary pieces to go with my designs.”

There was no mistaking her delight. “That’s wonderful news. Is that what your meeting was about this morning?”

She nodded, her eyes shining with happiness as she held up a pair of earrings that matched the design of the bracelet. “Kind of. I was thinking about offering it as part of a mass market line through a department store, but Topaz came up with this idea.”

“And you like it more.” There was no question in his mind that Sapphire would rather work with her sisters than with a large retailer, not matter how much more money she might make with them.

“Absolutely.” She set the earrings down and took the bracelet from him, replacing it on her work counter. “I’ll still be designing regular pieces for Sisters’ Jewels lines, but this way I get to stretch myself artistically.”

As much as he knew about her, he found Sapphire fascinating. “Tell me all about it on the way to my place.”

The smile she gave him had his dick standing tall and his heart thudding harder. She was really giving them a chance. He marveled at her generosity and bravery, not sure he’d have been able to do the same if she’d been the one to hurt him.

As soon as he thought it, he knew he’d do the same. He really had no choice. Sapphire had become essential to his life. Somehow, this quiet, artistic soul had made a place for herself in his heart, even though he’d barricaded and closed that organ off for years.

He helped her on with her coat and took her hand after she locked her apartment door behind them. “What would you like to eat? We can order and pick it up on the way to my place.”

* * *

Sapphire’s eyes widened when she got her first look at Jake’s home. The brownstone was old but well tended, and it certainly had character. Broad steps led up to a hunter-green door with a brass handle and trim. A tall, thin window flanked either side of the door. It was lovely.

“Come on.” Jake ushered her toward the door, one hand on her back and the other one balancing their dinner. They’d decided on pizza, half vegetarian and half meat-lovers special. “Hold this.” He gave her the box and unlocked the door, holding it as she stepped into the foyer.

“There are two apartments on this floor that we rent.” He let her keep the pizza and urged her toward the stairs. “I have the entire second floor and John has the third. I suppose John and Topaz have the third now.”

“Are they home?” She couldn’t quite contain the worry in her voice.

“I have no idea. Why?”

She shrugged, not wanting to talk about her sister and his brother and how much either of them might know about the situation.

He frowned as he unlocked his door and held it open for her. “You haven’t told her about us, have you?”

She sailed inside, pizza clutched tight in her hands. “No. I didn’t see the need.”

“I see.” Jake closed the door and locked it.

She wasn’t quite certain what it was he saw. She also wasn’t sure why she hadn’t told her sister about them, only that it seemed too personal to share. Of course, there was always the worry that Topaz would confront Jake and make their situation worse. Topaz took her role of older sister very seriously.

She set the pizza down on a table just inside the door and got her first good look at Jake’s home. It was a masculine space with the flat-screen television dominating the living room. His sofa was dark-brown leather, large and looked comfortable. A slightly battered, well-used chair sat off to the side. The floor was hardwood without a rug to soften it. There were no throw pillows and only wood blinds covered the windows.

Jake grabbed the pizza box and carried it into the dining area. Sapphire followed, wanting to see more of his home. His dining area was just as sparse as his living room. A wooden table sat in the center surrounded by four chairs. There was no art on the walls and the table was bare. He dropped the pizza on the table and continued on into the kitchen, which was separated from the dining room by only a countertop.

Jake collected two plates and two pieces of paper towel to use as napkins and came back to the table. “What would you like to drink? I’ve got red wine, beer, water or ginger ale.”

“I’ll have a glass of wine.” She needed something to steady her nerves. Being here with Jake, seeing his home, was giving her a whole new insight into the man. He and his brother had owned this building for several years, but Jake’s space looked as though he’d just moved in. It was stark, with nothing personal at all to say anything about the man who lived here. She’d only lived in her own space a few short weeks and it already felt much homier than his place.

It was as though his need to protect his privacy spilled over into his own home. What must it be like to live that way? So guarded and alone.

It made her heart hurt to think of him sitting in that large living room chair all by himself with little to comfort him. She could easily imagine him kicking back by himself to watch some sports event on his rather large television. Jake liked all sports and would watch just about anything. She favored hockey and baseball and wasn’t all that fond of football.

Jake placed a glass of wine in front of her and set a beer down by his plate. “You okay?” His deep voice broke into her contemplations and she smiled at him.

“I’m fine.” He was so handsome it made her ache to touch him, to reassure him he was no longer alone. But that wasn’t altogether true. It was up to him to let her into his life. She couldn’t force her way in. He had to really want her to be a part of it.

“You sure?” He pulled out the chair next to her and sat, his gaze still on her.

She nodded and reached for a piece of pizza—the vegetarian side. Jake grabbed a slice from the other side and took a big bite. She watched his strong jaw chew and his throat ripple when he swallowed.

Heat crept up her cheeks and she lowered her head and took a bite of pizza. Honestly, she had to stop looking at him as though she wanted to nibble on his jawline, to lick his stellar chest and washboard abs. Her nipples tightened and she bit back a sigh.

She had a lot of questions to ask, but was reluctant to break the companionable silence that existed between them. Still, she’d never been a coward and wasn’t about to start now. “I did some research online today.” After she’d gotten home from her meeting with Topaz, she’d done some digging around on the internet, trying to come to grips with what Jake had told her. She’d seen some strange and slightly disturbing things while researching BDSM websites.

“About what?” He finished his first slice and started another. His gaze was steady as he watched her. Sapphire picked up her wine and had a sip, letting the fruity flavor tickle her taste buds before sliding down her throat.

“About the whole control in the bedroom thing.” She took a deep breath and blurted out her question. “Are you into the whole BDSM thing? You know, with leather and whips and stuff?” Because she wasn’t sure she could handle anything that hardcore.

He set down the slice of pizza he was holding. “What gave you that idea?”

She frowned at him. “I suppose it was your whole lecture on needing control in the bedroom and me not being able to handle it.” What else was she supposed to think?

He dragged his fingers through his hair. “Hell no. Not that there’s anything wrong with it if it’s what people want, but I don’t understand the attraction and, frankly, I wouldn’t get any joy out of it.”

Sapphire was totally confused. “Then what did you mean?”

Jake’s chair scraped back and he stood. He held out his hand and said nothing. Slowly, she got to her feet and slid her hand into his. He scooped her into his arms and carried her into the living room, bypassing the sofa and heading straight to the disreputable looking chair. From the sad state of this particular piece of furniture, she could tell it was his favorite.

He sat and settled her comfortably in his lap. His jaw was dark with beard stubble and she reached out and ran her fingers over it, unable to resist. The rasp was an erotic caress against her skin. He captured her hand and kissed her knuckles before setting it against his heart. The beat was steady and strong. Comforting.

“I’m not into the whole BDSM scene,” he began, and she found herself relaxing against him, releasing a low sigh of relief.

“Then what is it you want?” She truly wanted to understand him and what made him walk away from her the first time. She had to know if she was going to be able to give him another chance.

They might have been intimate the other night, but it took more than sex to have a relationship. It took understanding, respect and liking as well.

He ran his free hand up and down her thigh, momentarily distracting her. Sapphire was glad she’d worn pants and not a skirt or she’d probably be in danger of forgetting about this entire conversation. His hand on her bare skin always felt so good.

“I spent twenty years in the army, and a good chunk of that time I was in hostile territory.”

“I know.” She was glad she hadn’t known him then or she wasn’t sure she’d have been able to handle the stress of knowing he was in constant danger. She didn’t know how military spouses found the strength to deal with it day after day. She had a great deal of respect for them.

“There’s a lot of things out of your control during a mission. So you control what you can and plan for all other possibilities.”

Sapphire nodded but said nothing, not wanting him to stop talking. She’d thought a lot about what working as a sniper all those years must have been like. And she knew her imagination couldn’t come anywhere close to the truth.

“I lived minute to minute, second to second. Sometimes never knowing what was going to happen. I learned that being in control of myself and my surroundings helped me deal with things better.”

She could understand that. She rubbed her hand over his chest, wanting to comfort him in some small way, knowing this conversation was the turning point in their relationship. Dread and hope warred within her, and she had no idea which one was going to win.

He laughed, but it wasn’t a pleasant sound. “I’m what you might call a bit of a control freak. Great for a sniper, not so great in a relationship.” He briefly closed his eyes. He seemed tired and she wished she could do something to help him, but she knew letting him talk was the best thing for both of them.

His gaze captured hers and she sucked in a breath at the torment she saw in his eyes. “I need to be in control in order to relax enough to enjoy sex. Do you understand what I’m saying to you?”

His confession shocked her. “You mean you can’t achieve orgasm unless you’re in charge in the bedroom.”

He nodded. “If I feel out of control, then my need for sex disappears and it becomes all about regaining control.” He gave her a rueful smile. “There are some women who find that kind of thing a turn-on the first few times, but they get tired of it eventually. I’ve been called a control freak and just plain scary by a few old girlfriends. I stopped dating before I even left the military.”

Sapphire knew her jaw was hanging open. To imagine a man as virile and wholly masculine as Jake going for months or longer without sex was unbelievable. “You mean, you stopped—” She couldn’t figure out a good way to ask him if he’d stopped having sex.

A quick grin flashed across his face before disappearing. “You should see the look on your face, babe. I won’t lie. I’ve had a few one-night stands along the way, but those left me cold and I eventually stopped. I haven’t had a woman in my life full-time for about a decade.

“The last time I tried it ended badly. She tried her best, but couldn’t handle what I needed from her.” He sighed and a deep sadness seemed to engulf him before he shook off the memory. “I heard she ended up in therapy. I figured I was better off alone.”

“But…” She still couldn’t wrap her mind around what he was telling her.

“Don’t be so surprised. I’m disciplined, especially after spending so many years in hostile lands far away from women. I can use my hand when I have to.”

His blunt assessment of the situation didn’t surprise her. This was Jake, the man who did what needed doing. She’d trusted him with her life and would again. But he didn’t totally trust her. Whether he realized it or not, his issue was really about trust. He didn’t trust himself with anyone. Could she live with that?

She wasn’t one of those women who were stupid enough to go into a relationship thinking she could change a man. That way led to heartache. If he changed somewhere down the road it would be because he wanted to, and odds were good that he would never change. He was forty years old and knew his strengths and weaknesses well, maybe even better than most because of everything he’d lived through.

“Sapphire.” He caught her chin and lifted it until their gazes were level. She lost herself in his pale-blue eyes. They were usually clear and emotionless, but not tonight. Tonight they blazed with longing, with need, for her. “Will you stay with me?”

She knew what he was asking her. If she stayed tonight, she was agreeing to let him have control of her, to do whatever he asked of her, whenever he asked it.

She nibbled on her bottom lip as uncertainty ate at her. “Only in the bedroom, right?” She needed to understand the parameters of this thing before they started.

His fingers stroked through her dark curls and he pulled her face closer to his. “I love your independent spirit, your creativity, your light. I wouldn’t change a single thing about you, Sapphire.”

“But?” She could hear the unspoken word.

“But sometimes I can be a bit overbearing and pushy outside the bedroom too.”

“Nooo,” she teased. “Not you.”

His lips curved into a sheepish grin. “I guess that comes as no surprise.”

She leaned forward until their foreheads were touching. “Jake, you were my bodyguard for weeks. You’re autocratic and overbearing at times.” He tensed but she ignored it and continued. “But you’re also kind and funny and sexy as all get out. I know who you are. As long as you don’t expect me to obey you outside the bedroom we’ll be fine.” She leaned back and smiled. “Outside the bedroom, we’ll just fight like normal couples when you get domineering or heavy-handed.”

He laughed and hugged her tight. “I expect you’re right.” All laughter faded when he cupped her face. “Give yourself to me.”

This was it. The moment of truth was at hand. Was she ready and willing to give herself, body and soul, over to Jake? Because that’s what it would take. There would be no holding back once they started making love. He would demand everything from her, and he needed it in order to find his own enjoyment.

Could she do this? Could she not?

The air practically snapped with tension. Every muscle in Jake’s body hardened, including his cock, which pressed heavily against her hip. He was making no effort to hide how much he wanted her.

She stared into his eyes, took a deep breath and jumped off the relationship cliff. “Yes.”

Chapter Eight

A sense of apprehension filled him and he was barely able to breathe as he waited for Sapphire to make up her mind about whether she would stay or go. Jake berated himself for giving her an ultimatum so soon. He should have taken her on dates to the movies or out for dinner, given her time to get used to him. They’d spent a lot of time together, but he’d been working then, protecting her.

He’d been her bodyguard and, more recently, her lover, but never her boyfriend. What an insipid word for the hot, smoldering mass of emotion boiling within him—boyfriend. He didn’t want to be her boyfriend. He wanted her tied to him emotionally and sexually and every way possible, to know that she belonged to him and with him, that he had the right to warn off any other man who looked at her.

Something about Sapphire brought out all his primitive instincts and he wanted to claim her in all ways possible—physically and emotionally. His entire body tensed as the realization shot through him—he wanted to marry her. He wanted her living in the home he provided for her, taking care of her, making sure she was safe. He wanted his ring on her finger as a sign to all other men that she was taken.

Shit, could he get anymore Neanderthal? He knew he had control issues, but this was extreme even for him. There was something about Sapphire that stirred the most basic and savage part of him. But one thing he knew for certain, he would never do anything to hurt her. Unfortunately, he’d already done that when he’d left her that first night they’d been together. His intentions had been the best, but that didn’t negate the fallout.

If they were going to split, she’d have to be the one to leave him. His gut clenched at the mere thought. He wasn’t sure he’d be strong enough to let her go. He tightened his hold on her, willing her to stay with him, to let him have her. His cock was aching to claim her hot, moist pussy. His balls tightened in agreement.

She parted her lips and said the word that fired every nerve ending in his body, pushing it to hyper drive. “Yes.”

He didn’t speak, wasn’t sure he could. He stood and carried her into the bedroom. The light was on in the master bath, giving him more than enough light to see her. He set her on her feet by the end of the bed and slowly released her until her feet were on the floor.

Jake took a step back and crossed his arms over his chest. “I want you naked. Now.”

Nerves had Sapphire’s stomach jumping, but she was also determined. Jake had his faults, but she loved him in spite of them. Loved his loyalty and courage, trusted him with her life. Now it was time to trust him with her heart. He’d laid it all out there, letting her know what he needed. She had to decide if this was what she wanted and if doing so would satisfy her emotionally as well as physically.

She’d come to that realization this afternoon while she’d been bagging up the clothing she’d bought when she was determined to change herself. None of it truly suited her, just like none of the men she’d dated had either. She loved Jake. And while he’d hurt her once, she had to be brave enough to take another chance on him. If she didn’t, she knew she’d regret it for the rest of her life.

He stood in front of her with his legs braced apart and his arms folded across his chest. His biceps stretched the fabric of his shirt and his erection created a huge bulge in the front of his jeans. Big, solid and sexy. That was Jake Knight.

Curiosity had her looking around the dimly lit room. It was much like the rest of his home—masculine and functional. The bed was king-size and covered with a charcoal-gray comforter. Nightstands flanked either side. The only other piece of furniture was a chest of drawers, the wood dark and rich in tone.

“Sapphire?”

Her eyes flew back to Jake. He was waiting to see what she would do. She could see the doubt in his eyes, and knew he was expecting her to have second thoughts. That prompted her to action. She pulled off her top and let it fall to the floor. His gaze was riveted on her lacy white bra, making her glad she’d worn it instead of a plain cotton one.

“Take your hair down.” She’d clipped it back with a silver-and-jeweled butterfly barrette she’d created as part of the new line at Sisters’ Jewels. She reached behind and released it, dropping it on top of her sweater. The curly mass of her hair fell around her shoulders and down her back.

Jake’s lips tightened and his eyes practically smoldered with desire. “Now your pants.”

Her fingers shook as she unbuttoned her slacks. At the last second, she remembered to slip off her shoes before shoving her pants down her thighs. She stepped out of them and stood before him wearing only her panties and bra. Her hands fluttered nervously by her sides. She wasn’t quite sure what to do with them.

“Turn around. Slowly.” Jake put his hands on his hips, his gaze narrowing as he watched her like a hawk does his prey. She wished he’d lose some clothes too so she wouldn’t feel so self-conscious. This was harder than she’d thought it would be. Standing before him when he seemed so composed, so in control.

There was that word again—control. If they were going to have a relationship, she’d have to get used to this kind of thing. She turned in a small circle, letting him get a good look at her.

“Your bra.” His voice was slightly hoarse and very deep. “Take it off.”

She reached behind and unhooked the garment. She wished it was a sexy front-closing bra, but she took her time, letting the tension grow between them. One inch at a time, she let the straps fall down her arms and finally off.

Jake sucked in a breath and Sapphire stood straighter, glad he was so affected by the sight of her naked breasts.

“Touch yourself.” A command, and one she hadn’t been expecting. She’d thought he’d have her strip and get on with things. But Jake seemed to be in no hurry.

She lifted her hands and cupped her large breasts. Her fingers were cool against her bare flesh and her nipples pebbled with both the chill and her arousal.

“Use your thumbs to stimulate the tips.”

Sapphire licked her suddenly dry lips and did as he told her, rubbing the pads of her thumbs over the distended buds. She moaned and felt a rush of liquid between her thighs. Jake was watching her every move and the bulge in his jeans was getting larger by the second. Watching her turn herself on was arousing him.

She let her head fall back and concentrated on pleasuring herself. Her fingers plucked at her nipples, her palms shaped and molded her breasts.

“Offer them to me.” The dark command interrupted her growing pleasure and sent shivers racing down her spine. “Come to me.”

Sapphire swallowed hard but was powerless to resist him. She cupped the large mounds in her hands and on unsteady feet walked toward him. Jake waited, his nostrils flaring with each step she took. But he didn’t come to her, waiting until she stood right in front of him.

He lowered his head and his warm breath feathered over her skin. Goose bumps raced over her chest and down her arms. “So sensitive,” he murmured. He lapped at one firm nipple, letting his tongue twine around the turgid bud. Then he did the same to the other.

She pressed her thighs together to try to dull the growing ache building there. Her pussy was hot and wet and oh so needy. Jake closed his lips over her nipple and gently raked his teeth over the sensitive flesh.

Sapphire gasped and then moaned, her knees growing weaker by the second. She was panting for breath, every muscle trembling.

Jake stepped back and studied her. He walked around behind her and she stayed where she was, instinctually knowing he didn’t want her to move.

He leaned down and kissed the dark bruises that marred her right shoulder, but he said nothing, and for that she was grateful. She didn’t want to talk or even think about Ivan. Not now, not ever. The bruises would fade and so would his memory.

He switched sides and kissed the dark smudges on her left shoulder, his lips lingering for a moment before he straightened.

The heavy mass of her hair was lifted off her neck and she tensed. Hot breath blew over her sensitive nape. Then he kissed the tender spot, raking his teeth over it. She shivered again, capturing her lower lip between her teeth so she didn’t cry aloud.

Large hands cupped her ass and the skimpy fabric of her panties was no defense against his touch. She went up on her toes, trying to get him to touch her where she needed it the most. He laughed, low and pleased, with himself, with her, she wasn’t sure and didn’t really care.

He came around to stand in front of her, looking satisfied that she was still cupping her breasts. Slowly, he pulled off his shirt, letting it fall to the floor. She licked her lips at the sight of his broad chest and rock-hard abs. Biceps rippled and muscles popped.

“Take off your panties.”

Her pussy clutched hard at his command. She was so ready for him to take her it only took her seconds to strip her panties down her legs and whip them off.

“On your knees.”

She swallowed hard, knowing this evening wasn’t going to end quickly. Jake was going to push her as far and as hard as he could, wanting to test her, to see if she would let him lead as she’d promised.

She went to her knees in front of him, her face close to the heavy bulge in his jeans.

“Put your hands behind your head and open your mouth.”

There wasn’t even a thought of hesitation. She clasped her hands behind her head and opened her mouth. She could almost taste his hard flesh and licked her lips in anticipation.

Jake slowly undid the button of his jeans and then carefully lowered the zipper. He was naked under his jeans and his cock eagerly appeared. The shaft was thick and long, the bulbous head damp and reddish purple in color. She leaned forward and licked the throbbing vein that ran the length of the underside.

She pressed her thighs together, squeezing them tight.

“None of that.” He shoved his booted foot between her bare legs, forcing them apart. “I want you so hot, you’ll come on command. My command. You don’t come until I tell you.”

He caught her head between his hands and eased his cock head toward her lips. She lapped at the flared tip before taking the head into her mouth.

“That’s it,” he praised. “Take as much of me as you can.”

His cock stretched her mouth and she forced herself to relax. The flared head went deep and bumped the back of her throat. She breathed though her nose and swallowed around his length, all the while fighting the urge to panic. Jake was so large, so overwhelming.

He groaned and slowly withdrew before forging back inside again. Her tongue stroked his skin, touching as much of him as she could. She sucked and swallowed as he began to move faster.

He groaned and she loved the deep, passionate sound. Liquid seeped from his cock head, salty and warm. She liked it. He might be in control, but she wasn’t powerless by any means.

“You have such a sexy mouth.” His hips pumped forward, driving his cock deep. “One of these days I want you wear that sexy red lipstick you wore the other night.”

Her pussy throbbed with growing need and her breathing was labored. It was getting more and more difficult to take in the air her lungs craved. Arousal made her skin so sensitive that even the air around her was stimulating.

“I want to see those red lips wrapped around my dick.” He continued to fuck her mouth, but slowed down, making it easier for her to catch her breath.

He stepped back and his cock came out of her mouth with a wet popping sound. “Up on the bed.” He leaned down and helped her to her feet, guiding her up onto his large bed so she was sprawled flat on her back. “Legs apart, hands over your head.”

Jake stared at Sapphire lying across his bed, spread out for his enjoyment. Her lips were moist and red, her skin flushed. Her legs were parted and he could easily see the slick pink folds of her pussy.

He eased his jeans and socks off, tossing them aside before climbing up on the bed beside her. His dick was as hard as a spike and it wouldn’t take much for him to come.

He gritted his teeth and straddled her waist, making sure to keep his weight off her more delicate frame. He’d had other women submit to him over the years, some eagerly following his orders in the bedroom, but none had moved him the way that Sapphire did. She freely gave herself to him, holding nothing back.

She was silently watching him with her dark luminous eyes. He grabbed a pillow, lifted her head and positioned it beneath her until her chin was almost pushed to her chest. He could see the question in her eyes.

He’d always wanted to try this, but had never dated a woman as well-endowed as Sapphire. He cupped her breasts in his hands, slid his cock between them and pushed them together.

He hissed as her soft bounty surrounded him. “Fucking perfect,” he groaned. He pushed forward until the head of his cock brushed against her lips. They parted and she lapped at the tip, licking off his pre-come.

Jake thought he might lose it then and there. His balls were heavy, brushing against her torso every time he moved his cock forward and back, letting the hard length slide between her breasts. On every forward motion, she opened her mouth eagerly for him, sucking on the flared head.

He reached behind him and found her slick folds. A low cry broke from her lips when he stroked a finger over her clit. “Come for me.” He pushed a finger into her hot cunt and thumbed her clit as he gave his command.

Sapphire shivered and then came apart beneath him. Her body shivered and shook, her pussy clasped his finger tight, squeezing it hard. He couldn’t wait to bury his dick in her hot depths and have her squeeze his cock as tight. He continued to tease her sensitive flesh until he knew she’d milked all she could out of her orgasm.

He climbed off her and knelt beside her. Her eyes were half closed, her body totally relaxed. But he was nowhere near done with her. “Up on your hands and knees, babe.” Her eyelids fluttered and a low sound emerged from her lips.

He rolled her over and helped her into the position he wanted. “I’m going to fuck you from behind and you’re going to come for me again.”

She shivered but pushed her ass back against his cock so he knew she wanted it too. He took a moment to grab a condom from the bedside table and rolled the latex on. She looked so beautiful with her hair tumbling over her shoulders, her slender back arched, her legs spread to accommodate him and her ass displayed to perfection.

“You want this, don’t you, babe?”

He rubbed the head of his cock over her slick pussy, teasing her clit before pulling away. She moaned and nodded.

“I didn’t hear you.” He repeated the motion, circling her sensitive clit with the head of his dick. “You want this, don’t you?” he repeated.

“Yes.” Her voice was slightly muffled, but he could hear the growing excitement.

“Tell me you want me to fuck you.” He slowly pushed the broad head against her slit, sinking in an inch before withdrawing. “You want it, don’t you?” It was important for him to hear it from her lips.

“Fuck me, Jake. Do it.” She moved, trying to get his dick back into position.

He caught her hips in his hands, aligned his cock with her slit and surged forward, burying himself in her hot depths. Her pussy rippled around him and he gritted his teeth to keep from coming. He held himself steady, his breathing harsh, his lungs labored.

Then he began to move. He wanted to go slow, but that was impossible. Need was riding him too hard for him to go easy. He kept his strokes short and hard and fast, powering into her over and over. And she took him easily, stretching to accept him, surrounding and squeezing his dick. His balls brushed against her pussy with each stroke.

He felt the buildup low in his cock and knew time was short. Reaching around her, he found her clit and fingered it lightly. She bucked against him and they both moaned when he sank even deeper.

“Come for me, babe.” It was more plea than command. He needed her to find her pleasure before he could take his own. It was important to him that Sapphire got as much enjoyment out of the experience as he did. He rotated his hips and ground his pelvis against her ass, his fingers continued to stroke and tease her clit.

But his body had a mind of his own and his cock spasmed. He yelled her name as he came, feeling the rush from his balls to the tip of his shaft. For the first time in his life, he resented a condom, but it was necessary, at least for now. He would always protect Sapphire.

He gripped her hips and pumped hard, wringing every last sensation out of the experience. She suddenly exploded without warning, crying out as her hot cunt clasped his dick hard enough for him to see stars.

“Fuck.” He threw back his head and rode out her orgasm, loving the way she squeezed his shaft as if she’d never let him go. He thrust several more times until she gave a little cry and collapsed on the bed beneath him. He tilted her hips up and gave one last grind against her before withdrawing and falling facedown next to her.

He was the first to move some time later. She was still lying with her face buried in the comforter, but she was shivering. Jake rolled off the bed, removed the condom and dumped it into the wastebasket next to his nightstand.

Sapphire looked so delicate and feminine lying on his large bed. His cock stirred and was half aroused before he’d taken another breath. He reached down and gathered her in his arms. She stirred and gave him a sleepy smile before wrapping her arms around his neck.

“Where are we going?”

He walked toward the bathroom. “I’m going to draw you a bath and then I’m going to fuck you again. The night is still young.”

Her eyes popped open and her mouth opened. “Again?”

He kissed her hard and fast. “Again and again and again.”

Jake was true to his word, Sapphire thought hours later. She was totally exhausted, lying in his bed with his big body wrapped around hers and the comforter covering them both. She sighed and he automatically pulled her closer. Her back was against his chest and she could feel his erection prodding her lower back. The man was insatiable.

She thought back over the long night, marveling at his stamina. Earlier in the bathroom, he’d lifted her onto his lap in the tub, making her come before washing her from head to toe. He seemed to revel in the task, making sure every inch of her body was soaped and rinsed, then dried when they were finished.

After their bath, he’d carried her to bed and then the sexual marathon had really begun. He’d buried his cock in her pussy, shoved her legs over his shoulders and fucked her until she’d screamed. Then he’d rolled over on his back and had her ride him until they both came.

After a short rest, he’d started again. He’d had her touch herself and not just her breasts this time. Under his guidance, she’d touched her pussy, pushing three of her fingers into her hot depths until she’d come. Then she’d sucked his cock again for a while but he’d stopped her before he’d found release.

He’d had her flat on her back, teasing her for what seemed like hours with his hands and tongue. There wasn’t anywhere he hadn’t touched her. Her cheeks heated just thinking about the way he’d parted her ass cheeks and stroked the puckered bud of her behind. He’d even told her he wanted to take her that way someday when she was more accustomed to him. She wasn’t sure about that, but Jake was very persuasive.

He’d taken her right to the edge again and again, always stopping just before she’d found her release. In the end, she’d begged him to fuck her, to let her come. And finally just as the sun was lightening the room, he’d dragged her to the end of the bed so her legs were dangling over the edge. He’d shoved her legs as wide as they would go and had her hold them in position as he’d fucked her hard and fast. She’d come twice before he had.

She should be tired after all that sexual activity, and she was, but she was also wired too. Jake hadn’t been kidding about needing to be in control in the bedroom. She’d followed command after command, eager to do whatever he wanted.

How did she feel about that? She was a modern, independent woman who ran her own successful business. Why then did the thought of having Jake take control in the bedroom excite her so much?

Because it did.

There was no denying her reaction to his every command. Her body had softened, readying itself for whatever he wanted. Even now, her nipples were taut, her pussy wet. It wouldn’t be long before all he’d have to do was walk into a room and she’d be more than prepared for whatever he wanted to do to her.

She shivered and he tightened his hold around her. “You okay?”

She could hear the concern, the worry in his voice and knew he was wondering if she’d bail on him, walk away from the intensity of his lovemaking. “Just tired.” That was the truth, but she was confused too, by his needs and her own.

Jake had tapped into a dark need buried deep within her. She’d always enjoyed sex before, had found it pleasurable. But it went to an entirely different stratosphere with Jake. She’d found the kind of pleasure she hadn’t even known existed.

His hand stroked up and down her arm before sliding down her hip and around to where her thighs were clenched tight. He pushed his hand between them and gently stroked her clit.

She bit her bottom lip, but a moan escaped.

“You’re hot again, aren’t you, babe.” He dipped his fingers deeper, pushing two into her core. She was wet, but slightly tender after last night. “I can’t get enough of you.” He withdrew his fingers, hooking them slightly so they hit the perfect spot. This time she didn’t even try to stop the deep moan that was pulled from her chest.

He lifted her top leg, pulled it back slightly and rested it on top of his hard, hairy thigh. His cock nudged against her opening and then he was inside her, sliding easily into her depths.

“Fuck yes. I want to wake up like this every morning for the rest of my life.”

Sapphire’s pulse jumped and her heart began to race. What did he mean? Then he was moving, his cock pushing heavily into her moist sheath. His magic fingers teased her clit and thought was impossible.

“Mine. You’re mine.” He came, spilling himself inside her. She felt the hot wetness spill through her and knew he’d forgotten to wear a condom this time. Thankfully she was on birth control, but even that worry disappeared when he touched her. This orgasm wasn’t as explosive as the others she’d had, but it was deeper somehow, more fulfilling.

“Sleep now.” He wrapped his arms around her, his semi-erect cock still buried in her hot depths. “I’ve got you.”

Sapphire’s eyes closed and exhaustion took her. Her last memory was of Jake brushing his fingers through her hair.

Chapter Nine

Jake kept a careful watch on Sapphire as he poured a cup of coffee and handed it to her. She’d been quiet since they’d rolled out of bed less than an hour ago. Of course, neither of them had gotten more than a couple hours of sleep. Still, he worried he’d overwhelmed her last night.

She’d showered and dressed, offering him a smile and responding to his questions, but she seemed lost in thought. That couldn’t be good for him. He’d pushed hard last night because she had to know what she was in for if she stayed with him. Not that he’d be on her that hard every night. Maybe just every other night, at least for the first year or two.

She hadn’t mentioned the fact that early this morning, when he’d taken her for the final time, he’d failed to use a condom for the first time in his life. Not that he was worried. She belonged to him and he’d take care of her and the baby, if there was one. A savage sense of pleasure rocketed through him at the thought of Sapphire carrying his child, but he shoved the image aside. He was jumping the gun, didn’t even know if she was on birth control or not. He thought about asking, but decided to leave well enough alone. There would be time to discuss it if it became an issue.

Satisfaction filled him as she nibbled at the toast he’d made for her. “Have some bacon.” He placed two slices next to the mound of fluffy eggs on her plate.

“Thanks.”

He frowned. She looked pale. Of course she did, after what he’d put her through last night. He, on the other hand, felt ready to take on the world. “You should get a nap when you get home.”

She shook her head and had another sip of coffee, closing her eyes and savoring the taste. “Can’t. I’ve got too much work to get done. I’m on a tight schedule for the next few weeks.”

Jake scowled and fought the urge to order her to rest. He might be controlling but he wasn’t stupid.

“Bet that hurt,” she teased.

“What?” He decided to play dumb.

She shook her head and laughed. “I could practically hear your thoughts. You wanted to tell me to go home and nap, but you restrained yourself. Barely.”

“You know me too well.” A grin crossed his face at the sound of her laughter.

“Hmmm,” she replied and went back to eating her breakfast.

What the hell did that mean? He wished he understood women more, but then, most men wished for the same thing. It was as if they spoke another language sometimes, one he didn’t quite grasp. He studied her and was pleased that she didn’t seem angry, just thoughtful. He could work with that. “How about dinner tonight? I could bring something over to your place.”

She nodded. “That sounds good.” She stood, flinching slightly as she did. Jake inwardly winced as he watched her slowly walk to the counter with her plate, mentally resigning himself to celibacy for the next few days. He had no one to blame but himself. It was his fault for making her sore.

He rose from the table and walked to stand behind her. “I’m sorry, babe.” He wrapped his arms around her waist and kissed the top of her head. “I was too hard on you last night.”

She shook her head, her curls dancing over her shoulders. “I’m fine.”

He wanted her to feel more than fine. Before he could figure out what to say next, there was a knock on his door. He frowned and released Sapphire.

“You expecting someone?” she asked.

“No.” He stopped on his way to the door and pulled a Sig Sauer out of the drawer of the console table. It was one of several weapons he had stashed around his apartment. He stepped to the side of the door and took a quick peek through the peephole. “Shit,” he muttered. He didn’t need this now.

“Who is it?” Sapphire’s eyes were wide and her skin pale as she looked at the weapon in his hand and not the door.

He lowered the gun and tried to think of a way to break it to her gently. A fist thumped loudly on the door. Jake swore under his breath. “It’s my brother,” he paused, “and your sister.”

Knowing there was nothing else to do but face their family, Jake shoved the gun back into the drawer and undid the locks. He pulled the door open and scowled at his brother and soon-to-be sister-in-law. “What do you want?”

John’s smiled quickly turned into a frown when Topaz gasped and pointed to her sister. “What are you doing here?”

Topaz shoved past him and descended on her sister. Before she reached Sapphire, Jake got to her first and tucked her under his arm. Topaz stopped in her tracks. She stared at Sapphire and then back at him.

Her frown deepened. “He’s the one, isn’t he? He’s the reason you’ve been so down the past few weeks, the reason you’ve tried so hard to change yourself. Tell me I’m wrong.” When Sapphire didn’t answer her, Topaz turned on him in the blink of an eye. “You sorry son of a bitch.”

John was scowling at him, fists bunched at his sides. Jake didn’t want to fight with his brother, but what was between him and Sapphire was their business and no one else’s.

But it was Sapphire who surprised him the most. She stepped in front of him and faced her furious sister. “Stop it. This is between Jake and me.”

“But he hurt you.” Topaz was practically vibrating with anger and Jake couldn’t really blame her. He had hurt her sister. It didn’t matter that it hadn’t been his intention.

Sapphire shook her head. “It’s our problem to work out.” She turned to him and offered him a wan smile. “I’ve got to go and get to work.”

“I’ll take you home.” No way was he letting her go by herself. He couldn’t help shake the worry that she was somehow slipping away from him.

“No.” Topaz took a step closer to her sister. “I think the two of us need to talk.”

Sapphire nodded at her sister even as he protested, but she held firm. “No, it’s okay. I’ll go with her. She’s right, we need to talk.” Jake couldn’t resist the request in her eyes and nodded.

“Call me when you get home.” He leaned down and kissed her, ignoring his brother and her sister. “Promise.”

“I will.”

John stepped to the side and spoke with Topaz while Sapphire retrieved her purse. When she was ready, Jake kissed her again. “I’ll see you tonight.”

“Tonight,” she repeated and then she was gone with her sister.

John closed the door with a heavy thud. “Want to tell me what’s going on?”

Jake turned away from his brother and went into the kitchen to clean up from breakfast, knowing John would follow him. He sensed his brother’s growing frustration.

“What the hell is going on?” his brother asked again. “I thought you two were barely talking again after what you did to her, but it’s obvious she spent the night here. What kind of game are you playing?”

Jake scraped the remaining food into the garbage, frowning over how much was still left on Sapphire’s plate. She’d only nibbled at her food. He placed the plates into the dishwasher before facing his brother.

“No game. I told you we talked.”

John glared at him. “You’re not trying to tell me all you did last night was talk, ’cause I ain’t buying it.”

Jake raked his fingers through his hair and blew out a breath. “No, we sure as hell did more than talk.” And just thinking about last night was making his dick stir when the appendage shouldn’t be able to get up for at least a week after the workout he’d given it last night.

John leaned against the counter and stared at him. “Then what changed?”

Jake propped himself up against the counter in much the same pose as his brother, every muscle tense. “She decided to give me another chance.” No need to go into the details of what that entailed. That was between Sapphire and him. It was no one else’s business.

“As long as you don’t hurt her,” John warned.

It hurt him that his brother could even think such a thing. “We’re both adults.” Funny, but his brother didn’t seem the least bit concerned about him getting hurt. Maybe John thought he couldn’t be hurt. “I won’t do anything to harm her.” That was a promise he’d made himself and it was one he’d never break.

John released a sigh and spread his arms wide. “What am I supposed to think? You barely talk to me for weeks. When you do, you tell me how badly you screwed up with Sapphire. You talk about a dark side you have that you’re worried about and suddenly she’s spending the night here. Why would I worry?”

Jake buried the pain and anger bubbling up inside him. His brother was right to question him, all things considered. “All you need to know is that Sapphire and I have decided to try to work things out between us.”

“Shit.” John pushed away from the counter and stalked into the dining room, staring out through the window. “Just don’t do anything stupid. Topaz is very protective of her little sister.”

Normally, Jake was very glad that was the case, but not this time. Topaz could be a problem if she chose to be. Sapphire was very close to her sister.

“This is between her and me. Sapphire is a grown woman and can make her own decisions.” He had nothing but the utmost respect for her, but this morning he had his own doubts to contend with. He didn’t need his brother and her sister adding to them.

He’d do whatever it took to make things work between them. He really didn’t have any other choice, wasn’t sure what he’d do if she turned away from him now.

John walked over to stand in front of him, legs spread wide and hands on his hips. It was like looking at a mirror, except his image had short hair. Familiar eyes stared back at him. Time clicked by, second by second.

Finally, John swore and wrapped his hand around the back of Jake’s neck, tugging him close. “Don’t fuck this up, bro.” The two of them held on tight for a moment and then John slowly released him. “But if you do, I’ll be here for you.”

“Thanks, John.” Something painful in his chest loosened. “Was there a reason you stopped by this morning?” With everything else, he’d forgotten to ask why they’d showed up at his door this morning.

John laughed. “I was worried about you, so Topaz suggested we go for coffee.” He tilted his head toward the door. “Wanna go?”

“Sure.” Jake made sure everything was squared away in the kitchen before getting ready to join his brother. As he locked the apartment door behind him, his thoughts were on Sapphire and he wondered what she and her sister were talking about.

Sapphire could practically see the steam rising from the top of Topaz’s head. Her sister was very angry. “It’s nothing for you to worry about,” she began, trying to keep up with her sister’s long strides as they walked down the sidewalk.

Topaz stopped, whirled and faced her. “Nothing to worry about. My future brother-in-law is the guy who made you think you needed to change everything about yourself. Of course, there’s nothing for me to worry about.” Her sister punctuated her last statement by spreading her arms wide and almost took out two innocent bystanders who were simply trying to get around them.

She grabbed her sister’s arm and tugged her closer to the side of the building and out of the way of the morning foot traffic. This wasn’t the place she wanted to have this conversation. “Look, we slept together, okay? Things didn’t work out and he left.”

“That dirty, rotten—”

“No.” Sapphire cut her sister off before she could say something they might both regret. “What happened is between us. I tried dating, tried to forget about him, and he tried to forget about me. But that didn’t work for either of us. So we’re going to try again.”

Topaz sucked in a deep breath and slowly released it. Sapphire could see her sister struggling to find control. “I didn’t even know you were interested in him. How could I not know?”

Sapphire heard the thread of hurt in her sister’s voice and was sorry she’d inadvertently upset her. “He was my bodyguard, Topaz. You know he wouldn’t do anything while he was guarding me. John was the same way with you.”

Her sister’s eyes narrowed. “He made his move on that last night he was with you as your bodyguard, didn’t he?”

Sapphire shook her head. “Actually, I made my move that night. I think I shocked him as much as I shocked myself.” People continued to move around them on the sidewalk. She shifted her weight from one foot to the other, eager to have this conversation over with.

“I just don’t like the idea that he hurt you.” Topaz could hold a grudge when she put her mind to it and Sapphire didn’t want that.

“It took us both off guard. The intensity was off the charts.” No way was she going to go into details about what had happened that night between her and Jake. “I think it made Jake wary enough to back off.” And while it wasn’t the truth, it was as good an explanation as any.

“Then why did you change so suddenly after it happened?” Her sister stared at her, as if she knew she’d made a significant point.

Sapphire shrugged, willing to admit Topaz was right. Her night with Jake and the disastrous aftermath were the impetus for the change she’d made. “When things didn’t work out, I began to wonder if it was my fault.” She wrinkled her nose “I’m not exactly the most exciting or best-dressed woman around.”

“You’re perfect just the way you are,” Topaz stated emphatically, just daring her to disagree.

She wasn’t that stupid. “Thanks. I finally decided I didn’t like the new me. And I certainly don’t like serial dating.” Thinking about Ivan made her stomach hurt. The bruises on her shoulders were still colorful, though they were starting to fade. “Jake and I need to give things another try to see if we have enough between us to make a relationship work.” That was the G-rated version of events. What she really needed to decide was if she could be fulfilled and happy with the kind of sexual relationship Jake needed.

Topaz rubbed her hand over her forehead and narrowed her golden-brown eyes. “If he hurts you again—” she began.

Sapphire smiled and cut her sister off before she could come up with a suitable threat. “I know. You’ll beat him up.”

A laugh escaped her sister. “You bet your ass I will.” She paused and then smiled. “Better yet, I’ll get John to do it for me.”

Sapphire hugged her sister, hard and fast. “Thank you. I know it’s not easy for you to take a step back, but this is between Jake and me. And I don’t want what happens between us to affect your and John’s relationship.” Sapphire worried a lot about that. Jake was going to be Topaz’s brother-in-law and if things didn’t work out between him and Sapphire, relations could get very strained.

Topaz shook her head. “I’ll do my best. That’s the most I can promise.”

It would have to be enough. “Okay, how about we grab a coffee and head to the shop. I want to get a better look at the size of the stockroom we’re thinking about converting into a new retail space.”

Her sister gave her a pointed stare that let her know she knew Sapphire was trying to change the subject and that she was allowing it. “I’ve got a sketch of the room and what it could potentially look like when it’s done. I also have some ideas about the color scheme for the walls and signage.”

“Of course you do.” Sapphire wasn’t surprised in the least. Her sister was one extremely organized lady. A shiver crept down her spine and Sapphire glanced over her shoulder. People were crowding the sidewalk, heading to work or wherever they had to go. No one seemed to be paying particular attention to them, but she couldn’t shake the notion that someone was watching her.

“You okay?” Topaz was frowning again and that was the last thing Sapphire wanted.

“I just need another coffee. My breakfast was interrupted so I didn’t get to finish mine.”

Topaz linked her arm with Sapphire’s. “We can take care of that with no problem.” Together, they resumed their stroll down the sidewalk, but Sapphire couldn’t resist glancing over her shoulder once more.

Ivan Gregor watched the two women from a doorway across the street. It was sheer luck he’d seen her strolling down the sidewalk. Sapphire Jewel…her name suited her. She was dressed casually in slacks and low heels, but was a vibrant butterfly in a sea of dull gray.

There was something about her that drew him. She had an air of innocence that he longed to fuck out of her. She owed him for the time and attention he’d bestowed upon her, and he planned to collect. It was only a matter of time.

He pushed her from his thoughts, pulled out his phone and scrolled through his calendar for the day. His day was packed with important appointments, but he would eventually find time to deal with Sapphire. Once he’d had her, he could put her out of his mind and move on.

Satisfied everything was as it should be, Ivan stepped out of the doorway and strode toward his first appointment.

Jake’s phone rang just as he and John stepped inside a coffee shop. He took one look at the number and turned to his brother. “I’ve got to take this.” Not waiting for a response, he turned and walked outside. “Go.”

“Your guy was watching the woman this morning. She was with another woman, a tall good-looking woman.”

“Her sister. Did he approach them?” Jake’s hand tightened around the phone and he had to fight the urge to race through the city until he was by Sapphire’s side.

“Negative. He looked, but didn’t approach.”

Jake blew out a breath. “Keep an eye on him.”

“Will do.” There was a slight pause. “You’re going to have trouble with him. I saw the way he watched her. He won’t walk away from her.”

Jake took the warning to heart. “I suspected as much. I’ll deal with him.”

“Roger that.”

Jake knew he had to cover all bases. “But keep your eyes open. If he approaches, move in.”

“Will do.”

The phone went silent and Jake carefully slid his phone back into his pocket. Once he finished having coffee with John, he needed to head to work. He had some illegal hacking to do.

Chapter Ten

Jake’s fingers flew over the computer keys. He’d hacked into Gregor’s cell phone records and was making note of the people he talked with. There were some numbers that were untraceable. He figured those belonged to the more savvy criminals. But there were always those greedy bastards in positions of power who didn’t think they needed to bother with such security protocols. Either that, or they were too stupid to even think about such things. Made his job easier.

It was surprisingly easy for him to connect the dots and he was soon hard at work hacking into bank records, both for Gregor and several of his associates. He shook his head, amazed at the idiocy of some people. Several high-ranking civil servants had deposited money in their accounts on the same day that Gregor had removed the exact same amount from his account.

Arrogance and entitlement would trap them all. The police might be hampered by their need to get proof through legal channels, but he had no such constraints on him. When he was done, he erased all traces of himself. Those he couldn’t erase, he buried beneath myriad layers. If any officials cared to dig that deep, they’d trace the signal back to an old woman in Hungry via twelve different other people scattered over the world. No way they could trace it back to him here in New York.

By the end of the day, Jake had several envelopes filled with information—phone records, bank account records and more, every document carefully handled to ensure there were no fingerprints on any single page.

Several of Gregor’s projects had been on the verge of being derailed when suddenly they’d been passed. He had copies of the documents signed by certain city officials, along with copies of their bank accounts that showed they had suddenly gotten much richer.

Jake planned to send the envelopes to the media and the cops. If Gregor had some dirty cops in his pocket he’d still get fried in the court of public opinion. He’d be much too busy to even think about Sapphire, which was Jake’s ultimate goal.

That work done, he sat back and picked up his coffee mug, grimacing when he tasted cold coffee. Still, he drank it down. Caffeine was caffeine, cold or hot.

A tap came on his door. “Come on in.”

John stuck his head through the door. “I’m heading out to meet a client.”

His brother had been bearing the brunt of the work these past few weeks. Jake freely admitted his head hadn’t been in the game. “Thanks, man.”

John grinned at him. “No problem. I expect you’ll be kept busy when I’m on my honeymoon.”

Jake laughed. “Decided where you’re going yet?”

His brother leaned against the doorjamb. “Not yet. I want to go somewhere warm and secluded. I keep telling Topaz all she’d need to pack is a bikini.”

“Bet that goes over well.”

John laughed. “Some days it does. She wants to tour Ireland, which is fine, but she’s not going to wear a bikini while we’re there.”

“Good luck with that, bro.”

John hesitated and shook his head. “Be careful with Sapphire, okay?”

“That goes without saying.” Jake shoved away from his desk, walked over to the large safe in the corner of his office and stuffed the envelopes inside.

John motioned to the envelopes. “Anything I should know about?”

“No.” Jake didn’t want his brother involved. “A private project. Nothing major.” He shut the safe door, locking the evidence he’d collected inside.

“If you need help…”

“Thanks, man.” He knew that John was there for him, would help him without hesitation. He was lucky to have a brother like him.

“Have a good evening.” John left him alone in his office. He felt tense and out of sorts all of a sudden. He needed to talk to Sapphire. He grabbed his phone, brought up his list of contacts and hit the top button. Her phone rang several times before she answered.

“Hello.”

“Hey, babe.” Some of the tension bled from his muscles the moment he heard her voice. That was the kind of power she had over him. It should worry him, instead it made him feel more grounded, as if he had a place he belonged, or at least someone he belonged with.

“How was your day?” He could hear the smile in her voice.

“Good. I’m on my way out now.” He shut down his computer and left his office, locking the door behind him. “Want me to pick up something on my way to your place?”

“Hmmm,” she answered absently. He could hear her doing something in the background, but couldn’t quite figure out what it was.

“Babe? Food? Do you want me to pick up food?” He engaged the alarm and locked the door to Knights’ Security, making sure everything was shut down tight for the evening.

“Sure. That would be great.”

“What are you doing?” He took the stairs down from the second floor of the three-story building.

“Oh, I’m working.”

That made sense. Sapphire got lost in whatever she was doing when she worked on her jewelry designs. He couldn’t wait to see her latest work. “How about Chinese?” He knew what she liked from his time working as her bodyguard.

“No. I think I’ll make something instead. I’ve got some chicken marinating. Won’t take me long to throw something together when you get here.”

“You sure?” He didn’t mind springing for dinner, but his mouth watered at the thought of eating something she made for him. Sapphire was a very good cook.

“Positive. I just need to finish up what I’m working on.”

He smiled, taking the hint. “I’ll let you go. See you in about forty minutes.”

“Okay.” Her soft voice sank into him like a hug and he smiled. He ended the call and stopped before he stepped out onto the sidewalk. Old habits died hard. He checked all around him to assure himself there was no one watching him. When he was satisfied, he headed out. Sapphire was waiting.

Sapphire stared down at the piece of jewelry she’d finished. The design had come to her yesterday—a bracelet that featured the logo of Jake’s company Knights’ Security. The logo consisted of a shield with two crossed swords on top of it. She’d made the piece out of a combination of silver, brass, copper and steel. She planned to set the pommels of the swords with small sapphires. But that was for tomorrow.

Pleased with the amount of work she’d done so far, she packed away the unfinished piece and the design, not wanting Jake to stumble across it if he came into her office. He always seemed interested in what she was making, and it wasn’t feigned either. When he’d been her bodyguard, he’d spent hours watching her work and asking questions.

She left several pieces from her new line sitting on her work counter. She could show him these if he asked to see how she’d spent her day.

Her workspace tidied, she stood and stretched, her back muscles complaining that she’d been sitting in one spot for far too long. It was an occupational hazard. When she got into her work, hours could pass in the blink of an eye. It was only when she tried to move she’d realize just how long she’d been sitting in one spot.

Sapphire ambled to the kitchen, trying to decide what to serve with the chicken. Maybe some fried rice with veggies. The apple pie she’d made after lunch was cooled and sitting on the kitchen counter. She knew Jake particularly liked apple pie.

Maybe it was silly, but she wanted to cook for him. She had the feeling that Jake hadn’t had a whole lot of home-cooked meals in his life. When he was guarding her, he’d always seemed to appreciate every time she made a meal and shared it with him.

She pulled out pots and pans and started to work. Forty minutes later, she had everything under control and was thinking about changing her outfit when the buzzer rang. Grabbing a kitchen towel, she wiped her hands as she walked to the intercom.

“Yes.”

“It’s me, babe.” Butterflies fluttered in her stomach at the sound of his voice.

“Come on up.” No time to change now. She glanced at herself in the foyer mirror and frowned. Her hair was half up and half down and her makeup had long ago disintegrated.

“Damn.” She stuck the kitchen towel in her back pocket, yanked the clip from her hair and raked her fingers through the curly locks. It wasn’t great, but it was an improvement. No time to do anything about makeup.

A heavy knock came on the door and she took a deep breath, uncertain why she was suddenly so nervous. She checked the peephole, knowing Jake would scold her if she didn’t—the man was very security conscious—and then she opened the door.

As always, the sight of him made her heart race. He was wearing jeans and a dark-blue sweater under his leather jacket that made his eyes appear even paler. He looked big and strong and totally kissable.

“You look good enough to eat.” His husky voice went straight through her, making her toes curl. He leaned down and kissed her.

Their lips clung, lingered. But he didn’t deepen the caress, keeping it light. His tongue swiped across her bottom lip and she shivered as arousal shot through her.

He raised his head and gently tucked a lock of hair behind her ear. “I missed you today.”

Those few simple words sent warmth flooding through her body and she had to fight to keep from wrapping her arms around herself in a hug to keep the feeling close. “Come on in.” She shut the door and locked it, using the mundane task to center herself.

Jake removed his jacket and hung it in the closest before removing his boots. He was making himself comfortable, treating her home like it was his. Her skin tingled and she cleared her voice, determined to do something to stay calm. “I’m going to check on dinner.” She headed to the kitchen and, at the last second, remembered to yank the kitchen towel out of her back pocket. That was certainly not sexy. She tossed the towel onto the counter and lifted the cover off the rice. Everything was ready to serve.

She lowered the lid and took a deep breath, hoping to calm her nerves. She had no idea what was going to happen tonight. Would Jake stay with her or would he go home? Would they have sex or not? The not knowing was making her crazy.

Her breasts swelled and pushed against the cups of the lacy blue bra she wore and the matching panties were damp. She’d bought the lingerie set during her shopping spree several weeks ago. The new clothing might not suit her personality, but she found that she actually liked the new undergarments. They made her feel sexy and womanly so she’d kept them.

Strong arms wrapped around her from behind, surrounding her in masculine strength. “What’s wrong?”

She thought about denying anything was wrong, but figured he wouldn’t buy it. She opted for total honesty. “I’m nervous.”

Lips brushed over the top of her head. “Why?”

It was hard to think while his lips were working their way down her neck. “Because,” she gasped when he nibbled on the lobe of her right ear.

“Because?” he prompted, his warm breath sending goose bumps racing down her arm.

She gripped her thighs tight when his tongue traced the whorls of her ear, but it didn’t help ease the growing ache between her legs. “Because I don’t know where we’re going or what’s going to happen tonight.”

Jake turned her until she was facing him, a soft smile playing at the corners of his mouth. His pale eyes should look cold, yet they were anything but. Heat scorched her as he gazed at her. “We’re going to eat the wonderful dinner you made, then we’re going to relax and watch a movie. And then…”

“And then?” Her voice was little more than a breathy gasp of anticipation.

“Then I’m going to run you a hot bath so you can soak away some of the aches from last night.”

She frowned, slightly disconcerted. How could he know she was still feeling a bit sore from last night?

He chuckled. “You should see your face.” He tenderly touched her cheek. “It’s no big secret. You have to be sore the way I was on you like a rutting bull last night. I have to take care of you tonight.”

“We could skip dinner.” Was that really her suggesting they go straight to the bedroom? What a hussy she was becoming. Anticipation shot through her only to crash and burn.

Jake shook his head. “Food first. You need to keep up your strength.” His big hands ran up and down her spine, making her arch into his touch like a well-petted cat. “Then you need to relax, then a bath.”

She gave him a disgruntled frown. “And then?”

“And then”—he gave her a wicked grin—“then I’m going to make you feel so damn good.” He cupped her ass and squeezed, making her jump. “You’re going to spend all evening thinking about what I’m going to do to you.”

He traced his fingers over the seam of her pants. Wet heat flooded her pussy.

“By the time I take you to bed you’re going to be so ready to come that you’ll do it whenever I want you to.” His voice was thick with arousal. She could have told him she was more than ready now. Her body was so primed it wouldn’t take much to push her over the edge.

Jake dropped his hands and took a step back. “Dinner first.”

Sapphire leaned against the counter for support as she struggled to get her body back under control. It wasn’t easy. Every cell in her body was screaming at her to jump on Jake, rip open his jeans and impale herself on his hard cock. And he was hard. There was no mistaking the bulge in the front.

Jake motioned to the stove. “Anything I can do to help?”

She shook herself out of her sexual haze. “No. Yes. You can pour the wine. There’s a bottle of white chilling in the refrigerator.”

While Jake dealt with the wine, she got dinner on the table. They worked well together and the evening turned into something cozy and wonderful, but always with a sexual edge pulsating just under the surface.

They chatted about their day, or she mostly talked and he listened. She knew he couldn’t talk much about his work because of client confidentiality, but he did seem to enjoy listening to her talk about her work.

Dinner passed quickly and, with Jake’s help, the mess was cleaned up in no time. They took their coffee and pie into the living room. He forked up a piece and tasted it. He closed his eyes and made a sound of pleasure. “This is exceptional.”

Sapphire smiled, loving his reaction. It was all she’d hoped it would be. “I thought you’d enjoy it.”

“It’s incredible.”

They finished their dessert and, when they couldn’t find a movie, settled on a baseball game instead. She left long enough to dispose of the dishes and use the bathroom and then she quickly returned. Jake sat in the center of her sofa, arms spread across the back.

“Come here.” He patted his lap. Her pussy clenched as she made her way toward him. She sat on his lap and waited to see what he would do next.

Her legs were on the outside of his and when he moved his feet apart, he spread her thighs wide. “Lean back against me.”

She did as he asked and felt the hard press of his cock against her lower back. His hands came around to the front, one of them cupping a breast and the other delving between her thighs.

Sapphire waited, balancing on the edge of desire, but Jake simply settled back and watched the game. The man was diabolical. Every inch of her body was like a live wire. She could feel the heat from his hands through her clothing. Even though all he did was rest his hand against her breast, the mound swelled and the nipple puckered almost painfully.

And her pussy was wet and aching with need. She started to squirm, but he clamped his hands down tight, preventing her from doing so. A low moan broke from her lips. “Jake.”

“What do you want?” His breath teased her neck and she could feel the hard pulse of his cock against her back.

“I want you to touch me.”

“I am touching you.” The man was infuriating.

“Really touch me.” She managed to move an inch and his fingers rubbed over her distended nipple, drawing a low moan as pleasure rushed through her.

“You have to show me.” His low voice was almost hypnotic. “Take off your clothes and lie on the coffee table. I want to see your pretty pussy.” He muted the television and silence surrounded them.

Sapphire was surprised her skin wasn’t on fire with the amount of heat rushing through her. She stood and looked at him, uncertainty filling her. Jake’s eyes blazed with passion and something more, something she couldn’t quite identify. But the passion was enough. She pulled her top over her head and let it drop.

Jake reached out and turned her coffee table around so it sat perpendicular to the couch. He patted the wooden top.

She gathered her courage and slowly removed her shoes and pants, leaving her clad only in her sexy lingerie.

Jake’s eyes lingered on her breasts before moving to her mound. “The lace is sexy as hell, but I want you naked.”

She knew Jake needed to be in charge of their lovemaking, but was quickly realizing it was a double-edged sword. As much as she was getting aroused, so was he. His skin was flushed and his shoulders and biceps strained the seams of his sweater. He might be playing it cool, but he was as tense and wound up as she was.

That gave her the confidence to make her next move. She reached behind her back and undid the hooks of her bra. Bending forward, she let the straps fall down her arms. The bra dropped to the floor. Jake’s breath hitched and his gaze narrowed.

Oh yeah, she was turning him on big time.

Turning her back to him, she hitched her thumbs into the band of her panties and wiggled out of them. She could feel the heat of his gaze on her ass as she bent over, heard his sharp intake of breath.

“On the table.” Gruff and commanding, he left no doubt that he expected her to comply.

Sapphire sauntered to the table and sat on the edge before lying back on it. The wood was cool against her heated skin and she arched up, displaying her breasts for him.

“You are exquisite.” The reverence in his voice washed over her like a warm wave. “Put your feet on the edge of the table and let your knees drop open.”

She knew the position would leave her pussy wide open and exposed to him. Her heels were on the edge of the table by her butt before she could truly think about it. She dropped her knees and moaned as the cool air brushed over her sex.

Jake leaned forward and cupped her pussy with one large hand. “Who does this belong to?”

The possessiveness in his tone should frighten her, but it made her feel powerful and womanly and sexy. “You.”

“That’s right. This is my pussy.” He stroked one long finger over her clit and she couldn’t suppress a moan of pleasure.

Jake stood and she almost cried out as his hand lost contact. She swallowed it back and waited, her body trembling as she anticipated his next command. He walked around the table, studying her.

He leaned down and tweaked one puckered nipple, making it tighten even more. She arched into his touch and his low, pleased laughter washed over her. “Jesus, you’re so responsive.” He lightly pinched her other nipple and she cried out, her pelvis lifting off the table.

“Touch your breasts, baby. Pinch your nipples as light or as hard as you want. But keep your legs open. I want that pussy nice and hot and needy.”

Oh God. She didn’t know if she could stand much more of this. She took both nipples between her thumbs and forefingers and teased them. It felt even better than it usually did because she knew he was watching her pleasure herself.

Jake walked back to the sofa, his eyes never leaving her breasts. He ripped his sweater over his head, exposing his chiseled chest and washboard abs. She longed to touch him, to lick every inch of his body.

He settled back on the sofa and opened his jeans. He wasn’t wearing underwear so his cock sprang forward, eager and ready. He grasped the hard length in his hand, stroking once, twice.

Sapphire was panting harder now, her pussy wetter than it had ever been before. Jake motioned to his cock. “I want your mouth on me.” He crooked his finger at her.

She sat up and gracefully knelt between his spread thighs, remembering to keep her legs wide apart.

“Hands behind your head.”

She placed her hands in position, linking her fingers together to keep them there.

“That’s perfect,” he praised. He sat forward and fed the flared head of his cock into her open mouth. She closed her lips and sucked. “Fuck, that’s good.”

She used her tongue and the light scrape of her teeth on his shaft as he moved his length in and out of her mouth. One large hand cupped the back of her head while the other toyed with one of her distended nipples. Her hips swiveled and she whimpered with growing need. She felt so empty without him inside her.

He suddenly gripped her hair and pulled out of her mouth with a wet pop. “Come here.” He lifted her in his arms and laid her out on the sofa, lifting one leg so her foot sat on the back. She was wide open and totally exposed once again.

Jake knelt between her legs, lifted her hips and brought his mouth to her. The second his tongue touched her clit she exploded. She cried out, her entire body jerking. Jake licked and sucked at her pussy while she came, pushing her into another orgasm. The room went dark around the edges, but she hung on, wanting to see him.

He was such a big man, tanned and muscled. So much larger than she. He hovered over her like some dark avenging angel, strong and ready to defend what he considered his.

He leaned back and swiped a hand over his jaw, wiping away her essence. He reached into his back pocket and pulled out a condom, quickly sheathing himself. Then he sat back on the sofa and reached for her, lifting her easily until she was straddling his lap and facing him.

She loved him. It hit her like a ton of bricks. She really loved this man even with his insecurities and controlling ways. She knew he would always put her first and would never cheat on her. In their time together, she’d come to know him well. He was genuinely interested in her as a woman and as an artist and was supportive of her career. He might want to control her in the bedroom, but outside they were equals and neither of them would have it any other way.

All that went through her head in a split second and then the ability to think disappeared when he impaled her on his cock. He stretched the swollen sensitive tissue in her channel as he forged inward. The rough brush of his jeans against her thighs was arousing. Sapphire dug her nails into his shoulders and clung to him.

Dark pleasure coursed through Jake, feeding his voracious sexual appetite. Sapphire satisfied him in a way that no other woman ever had or ever would. He knew she was special, knew she was the only one who could quell the growing darkness within him. She gave him peace and an anchor in this world.

He could still see her naked and spread across the coffee table for him, so fucking perfect, her nipples straining, her pussy wet. And the way she sucked his dick was like a wet dream.

But nothing compared to having his dick buried deep in her pussy. There was resistance at first, because he was so big and her channel was swollen from her orgasms, but there was no stopping him.

This wasn’t what he’d planned. He had intended to run her a hot bath and then gently love her. But having her sit so close to him while they watched the ballgame had challenged his control and pushed his libido to his limits.

He had to have her.

Her fingernails dug into his shoulders and he savored their erotic bite. Her breasts rubbed against his chest and her pussy clasped him tight. He was in heaven.

He started to move and she moaned, her head falling back to expose the long, slender column of her neck. He leaned forward and gently nipped at the tempting curve where her neck and shoulder met.

Her sweet cries of passion grew louder the more he nipped and sucked at her neck. Her hot sheath clamped down tight around his shaft. His balls grew impossibly tight and he knew he’d run out of time.

Jake gripped her hips and lifted her an inch or two before dropping her back onto his lap. His cock pulsed hard, loving the way her wet channel surrounded him.

“Jake.” His name was a whisper from her lips, but he heard it as loudly as if she’d roared it, felt the telltale tightening of her slick walls around him, experienced the ripples as she came yet again.

His balls tightened and his orgasm erupted, shooting up his shaft and spilling into the condom. He wrapped his arms around her and held her to his heart. His cock continued to pulse as her sweet pussy wrung every last bit of juice from him.

When he was done, he dropped his head on her shoulder and inhaled her sweet scent mixed with the darker tang of sex. She nuzzled against his neck and sighed, resting against him, trusting him to hold her.

He never wanted to disappoint her again. That she’d given him another chance was nothing less than a miracle. He knew that and wasn’t about to fuck things up again. Sapphire was it for him. She might be younger and more innocent than he’d ever been, but somehow she was perfect. It was as though she’d been made specifically for him.

He’d pushed her even though he’d told himself to back off and give her time to adjust to him slowly. But she’d risen to every occasion, with little or no hesitation.

She squirmed on his lap and moaned. He needed to take care of her. Carefully, he lifted her off his chest. She shivered and he frowned. It was chilly here and the last thing he wanted was for her to get sick.

He had to take better care of her. He hitched up his jeans, ignoring the condom for now. Sapphire’s eyes fluttered open when he lifted her. “Where are we going?”

He started down the short hallway. “I’m putting you in the tub and then to bed.”

Her hand rested over his heart. “Are you staying?”

“Yeah, I’m staying.” He sat her gently in the edge of the vanity in the bathroom. “But no more sex for you tonight.”

She looked at him with a question in her eyes.

He cupped her cheek in his hand, marveling at the softness of her skin. “I want to hold you all night long.”

She sighed. “I’d like that.”

He didn’t just want to hold her, he needed to hold her through the long hours of the night. He needed to know she was safe and that she was his.

She shivered again and he turned away to start the water running into the tub.

Chapter Eleven

Sapphire glanced at the large picture window of a travel agency as she walked down the street. The woman reflected back at her looked happy and confident, but there was an underlying sense of unease hovering just beneath the surface.

It had been a week since she and Jake had last made love. Since that time, he’d been attentive and gentle, nothing like the commanding presence she’d come to know and love. It was as though he was forcing himself to be something he wasn’t, something he thought she needed. She didn’t like it.

She knew what it was like to try to be something you weren’t and it wasn’t fun. The consignment shop had been the first thing on her to-do list today. She’d taken all the new clothing she’d bought—all the short skirts, low-cut tops and spiky high heels—and dumped them there for resale. Two of the guys she’d dated during her “new Sapphire” phase had called in the past three days and were gently turned away. She was happy with herself, the way she dressed and the way she lived.

She just wished Jake would be himself too.

Oh, she loved snuggling up next to him watching movies and it was nice to go out to dinner, but when it was time to go to bed, Jake either went home or lay beside her in bed, not touching her. It was enough to drive her crazy. She was horny as hell and he wasn’t doing anything about it. And the one time she’d come on to him, he’d gently put her off.

What was he doing? What was he thinking?

She didn’t know, but tonight she was going to find out one way or another. She shifted the bags in her arms, wishing she’d shopped at a market closer to Jake’s place. Next time she’d know better. She planned to cook dinner at his apartment to surprise him and, once she had him fed and happy, she was going to make him talk to her.

He had no idea what her plans were, but she knew Topaz and John were home. She’d get John to let her into his brother’s apartment. She brushed aside the niggling sense of doubt and guilt that she was invading his space without his permission, but she shrugged it off. If a relationship was going to work between them he had to learn to open up and let her in. Other than the one visit they’d made to his home, they’d spent all their time at her place.

If she were a suspicious woman, she’d wonder why he wanted to keep their lives so separate. But she knew Jake and he was not the kind of man who cheated on a woman. On the other hand, he was the kind of man who was almost fanatical about protecting his privacy.

She turned a corner and sighed with relief when his building came into view. Her purse started to slide down her arm, but she managed to hitch it back up without dropping her grocery bags.

“Let me help you with those.” The voice startled her and she stopped, warily staring at the man who’d appeared in front of her, seemingly from out of nowhere.

“Ivan. What are you doing here?” The last person she’d expected to see was Ivan Gregor. She’d honestly be happy if she’d never laid eyes on him again. Now she’d have to be polite.

“I can take these.” He tugged on one of the bags, but she stubbornly held on.

“No, that’s fine. I can handle them.”

His lips pinched together in a thin line and his eyes narrowed. “I said, I’d take them.”

“And I said no thank you.” Her heart was racing and her palms were sweating. She assured herself there was nothing Ivan could do to her in the middle of a public street, but that didn’t stop her from wishing Jake would come strolling around the corner. The bruises from their last encounter were finally faded and she longed to forget all about Ivan.

She took a step to the right to move around him, but he moved with her, blocking her path. Sapphire swallowed hard and squared her shoulders. Don’t let him see you’re afraid. Bullies thrived on making other people afraid and she wouldn’t give him the satisfaction.

“I feel we didn’t end things on the right note the other night.” Ivan ran his hand absently over his red silk tie. Like the night of their date, he was dressed impeccably in a tailored suit and leather shoes, his hair styled and his nails manicured.

“Apology accepted.” The quicker this was done, the better.

The corners of his mouth turned down. “I have nothing to apologize for.” His face was turning a deep, mottled red. He was barely holding on to his temper. Her tension rose exponentially.

“We’ll have to agree to disagree.” She shifted to the side again, but again he blocked her. Sapphire was beginning to get extremely nervous. The street seemed suddenly empty. Where were all the people? They were virtually alone.

“I don’t think so.” Ivan stepped closer and she took a step back before she could stop herself. He smiled, but it wasn’t a pleasant sight. “I think you should come for a drive with me so we can…talk.” As if by some prearranged signal, a dark sedan with tinted windows rolled up beside them.

Okay, now she was beyond worried. Now she was downright scared. The look in his eyes sent shivers down her spine. If he got her into that car it wouldn’t end well for her.

Sapphire tossed the bags of groceries at Ivan and ran. If she could reach Jake’s home, she could buzz for John. She ignored Ivan’s angry yell and raced toward the stoop, her low heels clicking on the concrete sidewalk.

A heavy hand came down on her shoulder and she was whirled around. She had a moment of deja vu, as it reminded her of the night of their date. Ivan grabbed her arm and started dragging her toward the car. Sapphire dug in her heels and started yelling for help.

Ivan swore and yanked her against his chest, slapping his palm over her mouth. Oh God, he was actually kidnapping her.

“Let her go.” The voice was male and deep, but not one she recognized.

“Stay out of this. My wife is ill. She gets like this when she’s off her medication.”

She couldn’t believe Ivan’s audacity. She shook her head and stared at the stranger, pleading for help. She lifted her legs, letting Ivan take her full weight at once. His grip loosened and she landed on the sidewalk on her butt. Wasting no time, she scuttled away before Ivan could grab her again.

But Ivan wasn’t about to be deterred and lunged for her, only to come up short when the stranger stepped in front of her. Ivan glared at the man. “Get out of my way. You have no idea who you’re fucking with.”

Sapphire inched away, chest heaving, limbs quivering. She had to get to Jake’s place to get help. She eyed the stranger more carefully. He was around six feet tall, broad with short black hair. But it was the way he carried himself that made her take a second look. It was familiar somehow.

It was like Jake, and John for that matter. This man had to be military or former military.

“No, I don’t think you have any idea who you’re fucking with, Gregor.”

Ivan stopped and stared more warily at the man. “Who the hell are you?”

“If I told you, I’d have to kill you.” Sapphire sucked in a breath. She really didn’t think the guy was kidding, nor was he finished. “You’ve got much bigger problems on your hands without bothering the lady here.”

“You don’t tell me what to do.” Ivan was furious, but he was also scared. She could see it in his eyes.

The man shrugged. “Just giving some friendly advice. You can take it or not. Up to you.” It was obvious the man didn’t care one way or the other.

Out of the corner of her eye, Sapphire caught a flash of something. She turned and almost started to cry at the sight of Jake bearing down on them, his long legs eating up the sidewalk. He glanced at her and she realized she was still sitting on the sidewalk. She pushed herself up, her legs trembling. “Hi.”

He ignored her greeting and went straight to Ivan. “You stay away from her.”

The front doors of Ivan’s car opened and two men in dark suits climbed out, both taking up position on either side of him. Ivan squared his shoulders, more at ease with his bodyguards beside him. It reminded Sapphire of a bad movie, and these guys were obviously the muscle.

“I don’t take orders from some bodyguard.” Ivan laughed. “I did some research on you and you’re nothing but a former army bum.”

“Think what you want, but stay away from Sapphire.”

The stranger shifted slightly to the side, moving closer to one of Ivan’s men. There was an air of alertness around Jake and this man that made them dangerous. Sapphire shivered. Jake didn’t even glance in her direction, but somehow he saw it. “Go on up to the house, Sapphire. I’ll be along in a minute.”

One of the bags of groceries was strewn all over the sidewalk. The other was still intact. She grabbed that one and walked as fast as she could to Jake’s place. She pushed on the security buzzer for his brother’s apartment and felt a huge weight lift when John answered. “Yeah.”

“John, it’s Sapphire. You need to come down. There’s trouble.”

No reply, but seconds later, feet pounded down the inside staircase. The door opened and John stepped out, gun in hand. “Get inside.” He ushered her into the foyer and shoved the door shut.

Sapphire set down her purse and bag of groceries and leaned against the door, watching out the window as John approached the group of men. He kept the gun down by his side, mostly hidden from view.

“What’s going on?” Topaz’s heels clicked on the stairs as she hurried toward Sapphire.

She shook her head. If she started talking she’d probably burst into tears. Plus, she didn’t want to take her gaze off the men. She released a deep breath she hadn’t even realized she was holding when Ivan climbed into his car with his goons and left.

Jake spoke to the stranger who’d stopped to help her. Sapphire’s gaze narrowed when the two men did some kind of complicated male handshake. Then John slapped the stranger on the shoulder and said something to him. It was clear that they weren’t strangers. Jake knew the man who’d helped her. A neighbor, maybe?

The stranger left before she could get the door open to thank him. One second he was there, the next he was lost in the growing evening shadows. Jake gathered the spilled groceries, dumping them back into the bag, and then he and John strode back to the building. She wanted to throw herself in his arms, but wanted to be strong. After all, she wasn’t hurt, only scared.

Topaz stood behind her, tapping her toe against the tile entryway floor. “Will someone tell me what is going on?” she demanded as soon as John walked in the door.

“That’s what I want to know.” Jake’s jaw was clenched and she could tell he was angry. “What are you doing here?”

She leaned against the wall, needing the support. “I wanted to surprise you with dinner.” She motioned to the bags with the slightly squished groceries. “Surprise.”

He lowered his head and released a long breath. “It was a surprise, for sure.” Jake raised his head and reached for her with his free arm, tugging her against his chest. He squeezed her so tight she could barely breathe, but she felt safe.

The adrenaline that flooded her system during the confrontation now left her feeling weak and slightly sick to her stomach.

“You okay?” The concern in his voice almost made her burst into tears, but she blinked them back.

“Yeah, I’m fine.”

“Well, I’m not. Who was that guy and what was going on?” Topaz was using her big sister voice, the one that usually got quick results.

Sapphire sighed. “Can we talk upstairs? I need to sit down.”

Jake shoved the grocery bag at his brother. John barely caught it before Jake let it go. “Bring the groceries,” he ordered. Then Jake scooped her into his arms and started up the stairs.

“I can walk,” she told him. It was stupid to have him carry her up the stairs, even though it felt really nice to be cared for.

“No, you can’t. I need to hold you.” Jake buried his face in her hair and inhaled. His muscles were like iron as they surrounded her.

“Who was the guy who saved me? I need to thank him.”

“No one you need to know.” Jake’s curt reply made her frown.

“You know him. That much is obvious.” She glanced over her shoulder at John and could see the surprise on his face. “Who is he, John?”

Her future brother-in-law shook his head. “Not my place to say.”

Sapphire glanced at her sister and Topaz gave her a slight nod. She’d get the name and information out of John if Jake wouldn’t tell them. Sapphire knew she could count on her sister to get answers.

Jake set her on her feet and unlocked his apartment door, shoving it open. “Everyone inside. We might as well get this over with.”

Sapphire went straight for Jake’s favorite chair, slipped off her low-heeled boots and curled up in it, sighing with relief as she rested her head on the cushioned back. Topaz settled herself on the sofa with John beside her. Jake started to pace.

“Okay, who was that guy?” Topaz demanded.

Sapphire took a deep, calming breath, knowing she owed her sister an explanation. “His name is Ivan Gregor and I went out on one date with him. It didn’t end well.”

Jake snorted and Topaz turned her attention to him. “What your sister means is the guy figured he was entitled to sex because he bought her dinner.”

“Is that true?” Topaz demanded.

Sapphire rubbed her forehead, feeling a headache coming on. “Yeah, it is. He was a friend of a friend, but it didn’t take me long to realize he was a narcissistic idiot. When he walked me back to my place, he got demanding, but Jake came along and Ivan left.”

“Jake just happened along.” It was obvious her sister wasn’t buying it.

“No, I was watching out for her.” Jake’s blunt confession settled over them and Sapphire watched her sister, wondering what she would say. Topaz seemed momentarily speechless, but quickly recovered.

“What do you mean you were watching out for her?”

Sapphire decided it was time for her to intervene. “That’s between me and Jake.” He gave her a grateful look and came over to stand beside her. After a moment’s hesitation, he lifted her out of the chair and then sat with her on his lap. Once she was settled, she continued. “I honestly thought that was the last I’d see of Ivan.”

“I didn’t.” Anger tinged Jake’s voice. “I saw the look on the bastard’s face. He felt she owed him and I knew he’d try to collect.”

“We need to call the cops and lodge a complaint.” Topaz reached into her pocket and pulled out her phone.

“No.” Jake shook his head adamantly. “I’ll handle Gregor.”

Topaz hesitated. “I think we need to contact the authorities.”

John placed his hand over his fiancée’s. “Let Jake handle it.” He turned to his brother. “You are handling it, I assume.”

“Oh yeah. I planned to live and let live if he left Sapphire alone, but I’ve got enough information to fry his ass, if not with the authorities, then in the media.”

John smiled. “The personal project you were working on last week?”

Jake gave a curt nod.

“What do you mean you’ve got enough information to fry his butt?” Sapphire was totally confused.

Jake ran his hand up and down her arm and she was glad for the heat. She was chilled right to the bone from her experience. “I told you that Ivan Gregor wasn’t a good man, babe. His business dealings are suspect.”

“How did you dig up information?” Topaz demanded.

“You don’t need to know.” Jake’s blunt reply fell like a ton of bricks, leaving no doubt that was all he’d say on the matter.

“You going to take care of it or do you want me to?” John asked his brother.

Jake shook his head. “I’ll handle it this evening. By day after tomorrow, Gregor will have enough trouble trying to keep his ass out of jail to even think about bothering Sapphire.”

“You guys are scary, you know that?” Topaz stood and walked toward Sapphire, bent down and kissed her forehead. “But I’m glad you’re on our side.” She glared at Jake. “You take care of my little sister.”

“I plan to.” Jake didn’t flinch when Topaz kissed his cheek, but Sapphire noticed the flush creeping up his neck.

“Come on, woman. We need to leave these folks alone.” John hooked an arm around Topaz and led her to the door.

“Call me tomorrow morning and we’ll go out for breakfast.” Topaz waited until she’d nodded her agreement. It was only then she let John lead her out the door, shutting it behind them.

Jake stared down at her. “Are you really okay?” His hands were gentle as he touched her cheek.

“I’m fine, thanks to the stranger, whoever he was.” She nibbled on her bottom lip and felt something hard press against her hip. Jake was aroused. As tempting as it was to try to seduce him, she needed answers first. “You know that guy, don’t you?”

“You’re not going to let this go, are you?”

She shook her head. This was too important to her and to them. If Jake couldn’t be honest with her then she didn’t know what that meant for their relationship. She needed him to be truthful to her.

“He’s a buddy of mine. I called him after the confrontation with Gregor. He’s been watching him ever since, which is why he was close by when Gregor tried to take you. He called me as soon as he saw you and, luckily, I was on my way home.”

“You had him following Ivan?” She couldn’t quite wrap her head around that one. “Why would you do such a thing?”

“Sapphire.” Jake threaded his fingers through her hair. “Don’t you know I’ll do anything to protect you? Nothing is more important to me than your safety.”

Her heart skipped a beat and her insides practically melted. For a man like Jake that was practically a declaration of love. “Promise me you’ll tell me from now on if you’re going to do something like that.”

Jake pressed his lips together in a firm line. Oh, he didn’t like that idea one bit. “You have to be honest with me about stuff like this, Jake.” They couldn’t have such big secrets between them or they would eventually drive them apart. As it was, she felt as though she hadn’t yet penetrated the wall he’d built around him. She knew he wasn’t consciously keeping her out. It was an ingrained habit to keep everyone at arm’s length, but she wasn’t just anyone. She was the woman who loved him.

Jake studied Sapphire and knew they were at yet another crossroads in their bumpy relationship. He was just glad she didn’t seem overly angry with him and seemed to understand his motives. He tried to make her see his point of view. “You’d have only worried if you’d known.” His first and only priority was protecting Sapphire.

“Yes, I would have worried, but I wouldn’t have been so scared to death when Ivan confronted me either. Not if I’d known there was someone watching.”

He conceded her point. “I’ll deal with Gregor and hopefully we’ll never have to handle a situation like this again.”

Sapphire sighed. “That’s not a promise.”

“It’s the best I can do, babe.” He tilted her chin up and brushed a kiss over her lips. “Your safety always comes first.”

She lowered her head and panic gripped him. He’d tried to show her this past week that he could be gentle, that he could court her the way she deserved. Now he was wondering if he’d gone about things all wrong. Maybe he should have spent that time solidifying their physical relationship.

No, he had a plan and he had to stick to it. This was too important to fuck up. He wanted to kill Gregor for frightening and threatening Sapphire. But since he couldn’t actually kill the bastard—Gregor’s sudden disappearance would raise too many questions and Sapphire would always wonder what he’d done—he’d make sure Gregor was no longer a problem. He was good at dealing with problems.

Although there was one problem that was persistent and nothing he did changed that fact. His cock had been rock-hard this past week, no matter how many times he’d jacked off. Not having sex with Sapphire was keeping the appendage primed and ready.

He tried to think of something else, anything else. His gaze fell on the grocery bags dumped just inside the front door. “You were going to make dinner for me?” He loved the idea that she’d wanted to surprise him. What was even more shocking was that he didn’t mind that she’d planned to invade his space without asking. With any other woman he’d have been pissed off. Of course, none of the other women he’d dated ever even knew where he lived. Sapphire was different. He liked having her here. Her presence made his apartment feel more like a real home.

It struck him like a bolt of lightning that was the reason he liked being at her place. It felt like home.

Her hand kneaded his shoulder through his shirt. “Hmmm, I’d planned to cook dinner, but now I have another idea, a better idea.”

His heart thumped heavily against his chest when her hands moved down his torso. “What do you have in mind?” His voice was hoarse and rough with arousal.

Her hand slid between their bodies, down his chest toward the front of his jeans. He sucked in a breath when her fingers skimmed over his cock. His well-thought-out plan of taking his time got chucked out the window. The hell with courting her, he wanted to fuck her. He could adapt his plan. He could do both. Yeah, that sounded good to him. Fuck her, then court her.

He could still see Gregor’s hands on her, taste the metallic tang of fear in his mouth at the thought of the bastard hurting Sapphire. Jake needed to know she was safe, that she was his. Needed to reassert his claim.

He took her mouth, savoring the sweet taste of her surrender as she opened under his sensual assault. Her soft moan fired his libido, which was already set to explode any second. Their tongues tangled and twined. Their breathing deepened. He kept his hands on her waist while hers roamed up and down his torso, always coming back to his aching dick. His jeans were so tight he feared by the time he undid them he’d have permanent zipper marks on his shaft.

“Take me to bed.” Her soft plea shattered any control he had left. He stood with her still in his arms and carried her down the hallway to his room.

Chapter Twelve

Jake couldn’t get the image of Gregor threatening Sapphire out of his mind. The son of a bitch had tried to get her in his car. What he would have done with her when he got her there didn’t bear thinking about. Yet he couldn’t stop his mind from playing out various scenarios.

Gregor didn’t know how lucky he was. The only reason he was still alive was because Sapphire was safe with him. If he’d succeeded in taking her, Jake would have killed the fucker and dealt with the fallout. Sapphire was his.

Her head rested on his shoulder as he carried her, her arms linked around his neck. His throat tightened at the trust she showed him and had given him from the first time they’d been together. He cherished it and knew how special it was.

The bedroom was wreathed in early-evening shadows, but it wasn’t quite dark yet. There was plenty of light to see by and Jake needed to see every inch of Sapphire’s lush body. He set her feet down on the floor next to his king-size bed and her arms clung to him briefly before she reluctantly let him go.

She reached for the hem of her blouse, but he stopped her. “Let me.” He wanted to unwrap her like a present, slowly exposing every inch of her sweet body to his view. She belonged to him and he planned to take very good care of her.

“Okay.” She dropped her hands back by her sides and waited. Her breathing was shallow and she nibbled on her lower lip, her sharp white teeth worrying it.

He wanted her so badly his hands were trembling when he reached for her. His large fingers seemed incredibly clumsy as he slid one button out of its hole and then another and another until her blouse was open. She was wearing a rosy-colored bra that cupped and lifted her breasts in an enticing manner. He covered the lacy mounds with his hands, testing their weight. Her nipples were erect and stabbed at his palms.

“Jake.”

That was all it took, his name barely a whisper, a plea. He leaned down, opened his mouth and took one fabric-covered tip inside. He laved his tongue over it and soaked in the erotic moan that fell from her parted lips.

Her fingers tangled in his hair, pulling him closer, and he found he loved the possessiveness in her grip. He growled and shifted his attention to her other breast but this time he pulled down the fabric of her bra and exposed the naked bud before lapping at it with his tongue.

She groaned, her nails digging into his scalp, demanding he pleasure her. He’d do more than that by the time the night was done. He wanted her screaming his name over and over as she came, begging him to fuck her until they were both exhausted and spent. His cock jerked in agreement.

He shoved her blouse down her arms and she removed her hands from him long enough for him to rid her of the garment. Her bra was next, leaving her naked from the waist up.

Jake leaned back, enjoying the erotic picture she made. “Take down your hair.” She wore it up or clipped back most of the time, but he loved the way her hair fell almost to her waist in wide curls that begged a man to run his fingers through them.

She reached up, making her breasts sway enticingly as she removed the clip. Her hair fell around her shoulders, one strand falling over a lush breast. He shifted the curly lock to one side, brushing against her nipple as he did. Sapphire sucked in a breath, her eyes wide and luminous as she watched him.

“Now your jeans.” He undid the button and zipper and shoved the stiff fabric down her thighs. She braced herself on his shoulders and stepped out of them. He quickly yanked off her panties and socks as well, leaving her totally naked.

He knelt at her feet and stared up at her. She was a goddess, unmatched by any other woman. Her skin was pale in the twilight, her dark-brown eyes liquid with arousal, her full lips slightly parted.

Jake ran his hands up her legs and over her curvy hips. Her waist dipped inward and then he moved his hands outward, cupping her breasts once again. She shifted her weight from one leg to the other and leaned into his touch.

He had to have her hands on him and he had to have it now. He surged to his feet and ripped his shirt over his head. His boots, socks, underwear and jeans quickly joined his shirt on the floor. Naked, cock hard and ready, he let her look her fill, stopping her when she reached for him.

He shook his head. “Not yet.” He patted his bed and waited while she climbed onto the mattress, then he stretched out on it beside her and stacked his hands behind his head, linking his fingers together to keep from reaching for her. “Touch me,” he commanded.

Sapphire licked her lips, hardly knowing where to begin. This was the first time in their short relationship that Jake had allowed her free reign to touch him as she wanted. Usually he told her what he wanted and how he wanted it. Of course, even this was a demand, but one she certainly didn’t mind fulfilling.

Feeling brave, she swung her right leg over his thighs and settled on top of them. His eyes were as blue as ice, but nowhere near as cold. They were more frozen fire. His lips were tight together and a muscle twitched beneath one eye.

There was no sense of being self-conscious, not with Jake. Sitting on top of him, totally naked, seemed natural. “Sapphire.” His tone was gravelly and she sensed his patience was wearing thin.

She closed her hand around his thick cock, curling her fingers over his shaft. It pulsed, alive and hungry. Her hand glided up to the top of his erection and she ran her palm over the moist tip, letting it dampen her skin. The muscles in his thighs turned to steel beneath her.

Sapphire released his cock and leaned forward, resting her palms on his chest. Her hair fell over her shoulder, caressing his skin as she moved downward, touching and kissing the hard planes of his body, teasing flat brown nipples. His penis brushed against her stomach, demanding attention, but she didn’t want to hurry, not yet. She was enjoying the way her nipples rubbed over his torso, sending shards of pleasure through her all the way to her pussy. She shifted slightly, rubbing her sex over the hard muscles of one of his thighs, wetting his skin with her arousal.

“Sapphire.” This time her name was a warning.

She sat back, smiled and took his cock in her hand once again. He closed his eyes and sucked in a breath and she began to pump. His shaft was so firm and alive, almost hot. Using her free hand, she cupped his balls, gently rolling them with her fingers. He groaned and his eyes shot open, ablaze with lust. She smiled at him and once again rolled the sensitive sac between her fingers.

Muscles coiling beneath her were the only warning she got. Once second she was on top of him, the next she was on her stomach with him kneeling between her legs. “Up on your hands and knees, babe.” His hand rested against her stomach as he helped her assume the position he wanted. His throbbing cock pressed against the crack of her ass and her pussy clenched hard, wanting it inside her.

Jake caressed the length of her spine before cupping the cheeks of her butt. “I love your ass.” Hot breath brushed over her skin just before his lips caressed the firm mound. She shrieked a moment later when his teeth nipped at her. He rubbed the sting away with his tongue and did it again. Heat flooded her core and she moaned.

He laughed, a deep masculine sound filled with pleasure. She wanted to see his face and raised herself enough to glance over her shoulder. He looked like some pagan god getting ready to claim his sacrifice—darkly tanned skin, blond hair, handsome and more than a little dangerous.

Long, clever fingers delved into her pussy, pushing into her molten sheath. Her head fell between her shoulders and she panted heavily. “That’s what I want,” he crooned. “So hot and wet.” His fingers tunneled in and out, curling slightly when they withdrew. “Come for me.” He hit her sweet spot and she cried out, her entire body clenching around his fingers. “Fuck yes,” he groaned.

Her orgasm swept over her and heat flashed through her body. Her vaginal muscles rippled and she cried out as pleasure filled her. But Jake wasn’t done. Before her body had a chance to recover, he fitted the thick head of his cock to her opening and pushed, stretching her slick channel as he forged his way inside. Jake gripped her hips and used short, hard thrusts to get past her initial resistance until he was buried as deep as he could go. He ground his pelvis against her ass, his balls hitting her pussy with each stroke.

Her fingers curled into the comforter and a bead of sweat rolled down her temple. “Yes,” she cried and came again, her slick channel gripping his cock hard. He held her while her body spasmed, but when she recovered enough to have her wits about her, she realized he was still hard.

Jake settled back on his knees and lifted her off the bed until she was completely upright in his lap, her back to his chest. The position drove him even deeper, made him feel even bigger. The muscles of her pussy rippled and stretched to accommodate him. His hands cupped her breasts.

Her head fell back against his shoulder in complete surrender. He gave a low growl and nipped her shoulder hard enough that she knew he’d leave a mark. She shuddered and his arms gripped her tighter.

While his cock pulsed inside her, he toyed with her nipples, tugging and rubbing them until she thought she’d go mad. She hooked her arms around his neck, giving him total access to her body. He didn’t say anything, but she knew she pleased him when his cock jerked and his fingers tightened around her breasts.

One of his hands slid down her torso and delved between her thighs. He found her clit and brushed it with his thumb. She arched into his touch, loving the way he made her feel.

“Tell me what you want,” he ordered.

Sapphire knew him well enough now to know what he wanted, no, what he needed to hear. “Fuck me, Jake. Take me.”

His hands closed around her waist and he started to thrust, short, hard stabs that had every nerve ending in her pussy alive and wanting. He shifted his grip to her breasts and leaned forward slightly, leaving her feeling as though she was falling. She started to put her hands on the bed for support, but he stopped her.

“No, keep your arms locked around my neck. I won’t let you go.”

Trust. It all came down to trust. Sapphire kept her arms locked around his neck and held on as he powered in and out of her molten core. She’d already come several times but knew that wouldn’t stop her from coming again.

Jake’s entire body tensed and then she felt the hot flood of his seed filling her. He leaned back into a seated position and fingered her clit, teasing it until the combination of that and his pulsing cock sent her plummeting over the edge.

She cried out his name, embracing her orgasm, shaking with desire as he continued to grind his pelvis against her, wringing every drop of pleasure out of the sexual act.

They were both panting hard and their skin was practically sticking together in spots, but he didn’t let her go. Jake turned and fell onto the mattress, staying buried inside her. She didn’t mind. With his arms locked around her and his cock still throbbing within her, she was surrounded by Jake, by his caring. And he did care about her. Of that she had no doubt. Whether or not he could ever admit to loving her was another thing altogether.

“You okay, babe?” He brushed a kiss over her ear and she shivered.

“I’m very okay.”

A low laugh vibrated in his chest. “You’re more than okay. You’re spectacular.”

She smiled into the growing darkness. Jake was always complimenting her, so much so that she no longer harbored any doubts about herself as a woman. His cock hardened within her again and Jake began to thrust, gently this time.

“I didn’t use a condom.” He kept thrusting. “This is the second time that’s happened.”

She’d noticed he’d felt hotter and her orgasm was more intense, much like that morning a week ago. “That’s okay. I’m on the Pill and I’ve never had sex without a condom before so I’m disease free.” That was one thing she didn’t need to worry about.

He froze behind her. “You’re on birth control?”

“Hmmm.” She snuggled closer to him, needing his warmth as the perspiration on her skin began to dry, leaving her slightly chilled. “I saw my doctor before I tried to seduce you.”

She could feel his lips curving against her shoulder. “Lady, you’re full of surprises.”

Sapphire felt mysterious and sexy and powerful. “I am indeed.”

“Then I guess we don’t need to worry about this.” He started moving his hips and lifted one of her legs over his thigh for better access.

“Already?” She couldn’t believe he was recovered enough to go again.

“Oh, babe. I’m just getting started.”

Time lost all meaning as the night closed in around them. Jake couldn’t get enough of Sapphire, needing to claim her again and again to know she was safe and she was his. She didn’t protest. Indeed she gave herself completely over to him. It was such a turn-on that it kept his dick hard for hours.

He had her ride him until she came, then he put her on her back, hooked her legs over her shoulders and fucked her until they both came. Then he piled several pillows under her head, cupped her breasts together, fucked her that way until he came in her lush, talented mouth.

And he couldn’t count the number of times he went down on her. He loved the taste of her, even better, he loved the taste of him on her. Like a primitive animal, he wanted to mark her entire body with his seed.

Only when she finally slept with total exhaustion did he rise from the bed, pulling the covers back so he could see her in the dim light that came in through the window. He checked the clock. It was just after three in the morning and they’d been fucking for hours. He rubbed a hand over his chest, knowing they both needed a shower. But that would wait until morning.

She was turned away from him, one leg pulled up, exposing her pretty pink pussy to him. He licked his lips and fought the urge to go down on her again. She was going to be sore. Hell, he was going to be sore.

He grinned, pulled the covers over her and leaned down to place a kiss on her temple. She emitted a small snuffling sound and snuggled deeper into the covers. Jake turned away from the tempting picture she made. The quicker he took care of business, the quicker he could crawl back in bed with Sapphire.

Naked, he padded out to the kitchen for a drink of water. On his way, he noticed the bags of groceries still sitting on the floor. He detoured long enough to grab them and carry them to the kitchen. His stomach growled, a reminder that neither of them had had dinner.

He put away the fresh vegetables she’d purchased and wondered if the chicken was bad after being left out for hours. Shrugging, he tossed it into the bottom of the refrigerator. Sapphire could decide in the morning and they could keep it or toss it out.

Jake pulled out some mustard, tomatoes and sliced roast beef he’d picked up at the deli and quickly made himself a sandwich. Grabbing a beer to go with it, he carried his snack into his office. While he waited for his computer to boot up, he ate half his sandwich.

He swore under his breath and then padded back to the bedroom, digging his throwaway phone out of his pants pocket. Sapphire was still fast asleep. He left her, went back to his office and settled in.

It was late, but he knew his buddy wouldn’t mind. He dialed the familiar number, and it was answered on the first ring. “I’m trying to sleep.”

“Trying being the operative word.” Jake knew what it was like to have nights like that, nights when the memories of the past wouldn’t let him go.

His buddy chuckled. “You got that right. The lady okay?”

“Yeah. Thanks again, man. She was pissed she didn’t get the chance to thank you herself.”

“No problem. I live to serve.” There was some slight rustling on the other end. “What do you need?”

Jake took a swig of beer, swallowing the cold brew. “I’ve got several envelopes I need delivered.”

“I’ve got a courier service I use. Very discreet.”

“Good enough.”

“I’ll pick them up in about forty minutes.”

“Thanks.” Jake let out a breath and felt the tension leave his shoulders.

“She’s important to you, isn’t she?” his buddy asked.

“Yeah.” Jake raked his fingers through his hair. “She’s the one. She’s…” He tried to think how best to put it into words. “She’s everything.”

“I’m glad for you. You deserve everything.”

He rubbed his hand over his face. “You do too.”

“Some of us aren’t meant to have a normal life so you need to do it for us. See you soon.” The line went dead and Jake tossed the phone on the desk. He ached for his buddy, knowing he was having a hard time dealing with everything they’d done over the course of their career. Even those of them who made it home without physical injuries had psychological ones. And sometimes those were the worst.

A slight sound alerted him that he was no longer alone. Sapphire appeared in the doorway wearing his shirt, which practically swallowed her whole, and a frown. “Why are you up?”

He set his beer down and opened his arms. “Come here.”

She came, her eyes widening when she got a good look at him. “You’re naked.”

He grinned. “I sure am.” And there was no hiding the fact that his dick was wide awake and ready to go again. His small head had no sense of discretion at all when it came to Sapphire.

She settled on his lap and reached for his beer, taking a sip. “That’s good. Nice and cold.” Her eyes fell on his sandwich. “Is that roast beef?” Her stomach rumbled and he laughed.

“Go ahead. You can have that half.” Taking him at his word, she grabbed it and began to eat.

Between bites she pointed to his computer. “What are you doing? And who were you talking to?”

Jake knew he could easily lie to Sapphire and say it was work and she would believe him. But that didn’t sit right with him. She wasn’t like any other woman he’d ever known and, deep in his gut, he knew if he lied to her he’d damage something very special, possibly even lose her.

On the other hand, she might not like what he was doing. Better to find out now if she could live with the kind of man he was than to have her discover it later and leave him.

She was watching him as she ate with those expressive brown eyes that saw so much. Would she understand his sense of justice or would she be disappointed in him for bending the law to his favor?

Sapphire put what was left of the sandwich back on the plate. “What is it? What’s wrong, Jake?”

“I told you earlier I’d deal with Gregor.” She watched him intently but only nodded. “This is me dealing with him.”

She frowned. “I don’t understand.”

Jake stood and set her on her feet. He went to his safe, unlocked it and removed the envelopes he’d brought home from work days ago. “These are documents that prove Ivan Gregor is bribing officials and that many of his deals are suspect.”

“Where did you get this?”

This was the hard part. He had no idea how she would react. “I hacked into his accounts and records and those of the people he deals with.”

“You what?”

Jake shrugged, totally unapologetic, and tossed the envelopes on his desk. “If Gregor had left you alone I would have left him alone. Since I can’t kill him, I can make him too busy to bother about you. If the authorities do what they should with this info, Gregor should go to jail. At the least, he’ll have a lengthy trial.”

Sapphire sat down heavily in his chair. “You found all that out about him?” She picked at the hem of his shirt.

He crouched down in front of her, grabbing her hands, holding them until she met his gaze. “There’s nothing I wouldn’t do to protect you. Uncle Sam taught me many things, and developed my two natural talents—I’m hell on wheels with a rifle and I can pretty much hack any system out there. It’s what makes me so good at designing security systems.”

Sapphire’s fingers curled against his, giving him hope that all was not lost. “The police and others are hampered by laws. I’m not. I can send these in anonymously and that will give the authorities enough to act on.”

She nibbled on her lower lip and his cock immediately went to attention. He forced himself to ignore it. “But if what you say is true, what if Ivan bribes officials to make this go away?”

Jake smiled. “That’s the beauty of this. I’m sending it to the media too. There are several investigative reporters who would love to sink their teeth into a story this juicy. If the authorities don’t act, the media will, and then the authorities will have no choice.”

“What if you get caught?” She grabbed his shoulders, her nails digging into his bare skin. “You could go to jail.”

He caught her hands and brought them to his lips, kissing her clenched fingers. “No, babe. They can try to track me, but it’s not going to happen.”

“You’re that good?”

He wished he could tell what was going on in that nimble brain of hers. “I’m that good.”

“Okay, but promise me you’ll never do anything like this again. Not on my account. I couldn’t stand it if you got in trouble because of me.”

His heart swelled and he stood, sweeping her out of his chair and into his arms. “You understand why I had to do this?”

She shook her head and his heart sank. “I wish you’d let me call the cops and lodge a complaint. But I know that doesn’t always work, not with a determined stalker. I saw what my sister went through when she had one.”

Jake was sorry for what had happened to her family, but was secretly grateful for Emerald Jewel’s stalker. Without him, he’d never have met Sapphire. Since everything worked out okay in the end, he didn’t need to feel too guilty for thinking that way.

“I understand why you think you had to do this,” she continued. “But let’s stay on this side of the law from now on.”

“Promise.” Then he added a disclaimer. “Unless you’re threatened again. Then all bets are off.”

She cupped his face and planted a quick kiss on his lips. “I guess that will have to do.”

“You call that a kiss?” he grumbled. He showed her what a real kiss was, lifting her in his arms as their tongues dueled for supremacy. He started to carry her into the bedroom when the buzzer to his door sounded.

Sapphire broke their kiss, looking slightly bewildered. “Who in the name of heaven would that be this time of night?”

Jake gave her a grin. “That would be the guy who’s going to take the packages to the delivery company for me.”

She was instantly concerned. “Can he be trusted?” She grabbed his face. “Maybe we should mail them ourselves.”

Jake laughed when the buzzer sounded again. “He can be trusted.” He lifted her to one side, grabbed the envelopes from the desk and started toward the front door.

“Jake Knight, you’re stark naked. Go put some clothes on.”

He pressed down on the buzzer.

“It’s me.”

“Come on up,” he told his buddy.

Sapphire stood in his living room, tapping her bare toe against the floor. She looked totally tousled, her lips moist and red from his kiss. “Maybe you should wait in the bedroom.”

“If you can answer the door naked, I can be here.”

Swearing, he tossed the envelopes onto the table beside the door and raced down the hallway. He grabbed his jeans and had one leg shoved into them when a knock came on the door. “Don’t open it,” he yelled, even knowing he was too late to stop her.

He heard her voice greet his buddy. Jake finished pulling on his jeans, grabbed a T-shirt from the closet and practically ran to the living room. Dolan, the bastard, was standing there with a shit-eating grin on his face.

“Thank you so much for your help earlier this evening.” Sapphire had hold of his friend’s hand, shaking it.

Dolan looked slightly bemused. “No problem, ma’am.” He glanced toward Jake. “You got something for me?”

Jake grabbed the packets and used the T-shirt to wipe them clean of his prints before handing them over. “Make sure you’re not seen and that the envelopes are clean.” There could be no telltale fingerprints to lead back to either of them.

Dolan raised one eyebrow. “Not a problem.” And it wouldn’t be. Not for a man with Dolan’s skills.

Jake nodded. “We’ll grab a coffee sometime soon and exchange new numbers.” He knew his buddy understood to meet him tomorrow. They’d both have new phones and would destroy the ones they were currently using. No one would ever be able to trace their calls or conversations about Ivan Gregor.

His buddy stilled and slowly nodded. “Okay.” Then he was gone.

“A man of few words, isn’t he? He wouldn’t even tell me his name.” Sapphire stared at the closed door.

“He keeps to himself.”

Sapphire chuckled. “He makes you seem like you’re an outgoing personality.”

Jake didn’t want to talk about Dolan or about Gregor any longer. As far as he was concerned the matter was done. Settled. He had more important things to deal with.

He scooped Sapphire into his arms. “I think we could use a shower.”

Everything inside him settled when she wrapped her arms around him and nodded. “I think you’re right.”

Chapter Thirteen

Sapphire stared at herself in the bathroom mirror. She looked the same with her curly hair tumbling around her shoulders, her dark-brown eyes and full lips. But she felt different.

Jake had broken the law in order to protect her. It was a heady feeling to know a man as honorable as he had done such a thing for her. She’d been halfway shocked and equally thrilled.

It was frightening to think of Ivan Gregor breaking the law to get his way in his business deals. She shivered as she remembered his face from yesterday. He truly expected to take her in his car, do whatever he wanted and suffer no consequences. She wondered if he’d ever done such a thing before and, deep in her gut, knew he had. The move was too practiced and he was too cocky. No, he and his flunkies had pulled that maneuver before.

She wondered if the woman involved had reported it to the police or if she’d been too ashamed, certain no one would believe her. That happened a lot in rape cases, especially if the man was powerful and good-looking. People didn’t want to believe such men could be monsters. Plus, if what Jake told her was true, Ivan probably had friends in high places who would help such charges go away.

It was scary to contemplate what had almost happened, what would have happened if not for Jake and his vigilance.

He’d had someone following Ivan for days, keeping tabs on him constantly, and all without telling her. That was Jake, a protector to his core. In his mind, he hadn’t broken the law at all, but had only helped where the law was hindered by rules and regulations. To his way of thinking, what he’d done was right. And she couldn’t disagree with him.

She shoved all thoughts of Ivan out of her head, grabbed her brush and dragged it over her hair. It was past time for her to meet her sister at Althea’s Bakery. She’d had to hurry home and grab some clean clothing, not wanting to wear the same thing she had last night.

The three-quarter-length denim skirt and long-sleeved burnt-orange sweater looked great together. She dropped her brush on the vanity and hurried to her bedroom. She slid her feet into a pair of brown leather flats, grabbed her purse and headed out. She was already late.

After she and Jake had showered, with him meticulously washing every inch of her body, they’d fallen into bed where he’d made love to her slow and easy. When she woke again, the sun was up and she was running behind schedule.

Jake had insisted on taking her home, but she’d drawn the line at him waiting for her. She didn’t think Ivan would try anything again so soon. Jake had given in, but not before letting her know he wasn’t happy about the situation.

A shiver of desire raced through her body as she let herself out of her apartment and headed to the elevator, making her nipples tingle and her pussy throb. She had to be careful with Jake. It would be so easy for him to take over her entire life. He wouldn’t mean to, but it could easily happen with his dominant, take-charge personality.

Luckily, she was no pushover and didn’t mind standing up to him. The funny thing was Jake respected her independence and was hugely supportive of her career. He was a man of many levels and moods.

The elevator door opened and she stepped inside, glad she was alone. She pressed the button for the lobby and the door swished closed. Her thoughts tumbled over themselves as the elevator began its descent.

She had to make a decision. And soon.

Every moment they spent together, she was falling more and more in love with him. It was impossible not to. Jake was loyal and lived by a code of ethics. It might be slightly different from that of normal society, but he was definitely one of the good guys. He was strong and determined, but used those skills to protect and defend. He’d already shown what lengths he’d go to in order to protect her.

She’d never have to worry about Jake cheating on her. He wasn’t made that way. If their relationship ever faltered, he’d tell her straight out things weren’t working between them. Not that she could ever imagine such a time.

They were like dynamite and a match when they came together—totally explosive.

She bit her bottom lip and stifled a moan. The elevator door opened and she stepped out, hurrying to the front door. Sapphire hesitated, checking both ways before beginning her trek to the bakery. She glanced at her watch and swore under her breath. Topaz would be waiting for her. Sapphire hated being late.

She picked up her pace, keeping her eyes open even as her thoughts drifted back to Jake and the incredible night they’d spent together.

Jake watched Sapphire hurrying down the sidewalk and smiled. He loved the long skirt and colorful sweater she wore. He liked the fact the skirt hid most of her legs. She had sexy legs, long and toned. No one would ever accuse him of being a modern male in many ways. That was okay with him, and Sapphire didn’t seem to mind.

If she wanted to dress sexy, he’d suck it up and live with it, but he was glad her normal style went more toward long, flowing dresses and skirts or slacks and jeans. No short dresses or mini-skirts for her. Well, not anymore. She seemed to have abandoned her short-lived foray into those styles.

He knew she’d be pissed if she caught him following her, but he couldn’t help himself. Until the shit hit the fan with Ivan Gregor and Jake was convinced he was no longer a threat, he’d be keeping his eye on her. She was much too precious.

He broke out into a cold sweat remembering how close he’d come to possibly losing her last night. Gregor would have certainly raped her. After that, who knew? Jake didn’t trust Gregor not to get rid of her. There was nothing in the guy’s past to suggest he was a murderer, but Jake wasn’t taking any chances.

Sapphire was his entire world.

Deep in his gut, Jake knew there would never be another woman for him. Sapphire was it. There was something about her that pleased him on all levels—intellectually, emotionally and especially physically. The way she gave herself to him so completely was a major turn-on. She made him feel complete and no longer alone in the world. That was everything and worth protecting by any means necessary.

He loved her.

The words scared the shit out of him. They gave her so much power over him. But only if he told her. Maybe it was better to keep the thought to himself. He could show her how much he loved her without actually telling her.

Cowardly bastard, he mocked himself. A woman like Sapphire would need the words. More than that, she deserved them. He’d have to consider his options and make a plan. That’s where he excelled.

He watched her walk toward the bakery, totally oblivious to the stares of many of the men walking down the street. He smiled. She sure as hell noticed him and had from the very beginning.

Her curly hair tumbled around her shoulders and over her back. A wide bracelet wrapped around her left wrist, the stones in it glinting in the morning sunshine. Her hips swayed and his gaze focused on her ass, which was hidden beneath her skirt. He loved her ass.

She reached the bakery, opened the door and stepped inside. Jake continued on down the sidewalk, making sure she didn’t see him as he passed by. Satisfied she was safe for now, he headed to work. He’d put so much time in on the Gregor project lately he was behind with his work for Knight’s Security. Not that John complained, but Jake knew his brother had taken up a lot of the slack lately. Time to rectify the situation.

He pulled out his phone and hit a button on his contacts list. She answered on the second ring. “Hi.” Her voice filled him, filling the emptiness inside him.

“Hey, babe. Did you get to the bakery okay?”

“I was just going to call you. I’m here and I’m fine.”

He knew that, but he wasn’t stupid enough to admit he’d followed her. He might not totally understand women, but he wasn’t clueless either. In this case, what she didn’t know was better for him.

He crossed the street and backtracked toward the parking garage where he’d left his car. “Great. I’ll call you later.”

“I’ll be working at home this afternoon.” He could hear the muted conversations at the bakery in the background. “I’m going to the store this morning but hope to be finished up there by noon.”

“Get a cab home.”

“Jake, it’s not that far to walk.” He could hear the exasperation in her voice, but he wouldn’t budge on this.

“Until we know for sure my plan is going to work you need to play it smart.” Otherwise, he’d have to leave work to skulk around her workplace and wait for her to leave at lunchtime so he could follow her home. Dolan was still watching Gregor, but that didn’t mean the bastard couldn’t hire someone else to snatch Sapphire.

“For you.” Her voice was low and intimate. His cock stirred, the greedy bastard. Jake didn’t think his dick would be able to get up at all today after last night’s workout. “I’ll do it for you.”

“Thanks, babe.” He headed into the parking garage, keeping all his senses alert. “I’m not trying to be difficult or controlling.” He worried she might think he wanted to dominate her life outside the bedroom and nothing could be further from the truth. “I just want you safe.”

“I know. I gotta go.”

“Me too. Talk to you later.” He hung up and headed to his car, determined to get a full day’s work in at Knight’s Security.

“Jake, right?” Topaz tapped her fingers against the side of her coffee cup, her half-eaten apple muffin beside it.

“Yes.” Sapphire slipped her phone into her purse and tucked the bag on the floor between her feet. “He’s worried about my safety.”

“Good. He should be.”

Sapphire’s gaze flew to her sister’s face. She’d expected Topaz to start in on Jake and about his controlling manner. She’d been ready to defend him. Instead, her sister was on his side.

Topaz gave a throaty chuckle. “Don’t look so surprised. I want you safe too and if he can keep you that way he has my full support.” She picked up her mug and had a sip. “Besides, I’m marrying his twin. They’re not so different.”

Sapphire didn’t correct her sister. She had a feeling the men were very different when it came to the bedroom, but that was between Jake and her.

“So, you and Jake are serious?” Topaz crumbled a piece off the side of her muffin.

Sapphire took a fortifying gulp of her mocha latte and a bite of her chocolate chip muffin before answering. After last night, she needed the extra chocolate to keep up her strength. “Very serious.”

Topaz shook her head. “I have to admit, I didn’t see that one coming.” She paused and a slow, sexy smile crossed her face. “Of course, I didn’t see me and John together either. What is it about those Knight brothers?”

Her sister’s engagement ring flashed when she lifted her coffee cup and Sapphire swallowed the envy that threatened to fill her. She wanted that kind of commitment from Jake. But she quickly realized she wouldn’t get it until she made a commitment of another kind to him. The ball was in her court and he’d wait for her to make her decision.

Jake was a very patient man.

She pressed her thighs together to help ease the growing ache in her pussy. God, what was he doing to her? All she had to do was think about him, about them being together and she was aroused. And in a public place, sitting across from her sister, no less.

“You okay? You look a little flushed.” Topaz reached out and rested her hand on Sapphire’s arm.

She shook her head and scrambled to come up with an excuse. No way was she telling her sister her face was red because she was aroused. “I’m fine. Just thinking about last evening.” She left Topaz to draw her own conclusion and sighed when her sister zoned in on the attack.

“No wonder. I still can’t believe that awful man tried to drag you into his car.” Topaz sat back, her eyes narrowing. “I’m not convinced we shouldn’t have called the police.”

Sapphire shook her head. “No, that would only make him more dangerous.” Jake was right about that. Ivan was like a snake and would strike even harder if he felt cornered or attacked. Better to let his problems come from other sources. Ivan would never know it was Jake who set the authorities on him, and that would keep them all safe.

“You may be right,” Topaz conceded. She hesitated and then shook her head. “I told myself I wasn’t going to butt into your business, but are you sure you know what you’re doing with Jake? I admit that John is a lot of man to handle, but Jake seems even more intense.”

“This is you not butting in?” she shot back.

Topaz grinned. “What can I say? Big sister’s prerogative.”

Sapphire grinned back, feeling very lucky to have a family that cared so much about her. “I love him.” It was as simple and as complicated as that.

Topaz blew out a breath. “I figured that. I don’t know whether to commiserate with you or congratulate you.”

Sapphire laughed. “Maybe a bit of both.” Jake was a complex man, one she might never fully understand. There were walls he kept up, blocking the world out of his innermost thoughts. She would be content if she could break through half the barriers. There were things from his past he might never want to share and she was okay with that. As long as he was committed to her, loved her and didn’t shut her out in the future.

She wasn’t one of those women who thought she could change a man. Jake was what he was and he was content to be that way. It wasn’t up to her to change him any more than he should try to change her.

Relationships were a compromise and both of them were learning where and how to give.

Topaz popped the last piece of muffin in her mouth, following it with a sip of her coffee. “Finish up. We need to get to work. Enough talk of men for now.”

Sapphire broke off a hunk of muffin. “Well, what about the wedding then? How are plans coming along?”

Topaz’s eyes gleamed. “I thought we might stop in at the boutique down the street later this morning. I think I’ve found the perfect dress.”

Sapphire finished her mocha latte and muffin while she listened to her sister expound on the virtues of the dress and lay out all her other wedding plans. The wedding was a simple affair, close friends and family only, but it was going to be beautiful. The ceremony and reception were going to be held at their parents’ home in upstate New York and their mother was working closely with the caterer and florist. She was so happy for Topaz, but her thoughts kept straying back to Jake.

What was he doing? Was he thinking about her?

Topaz stood and grabbed her purse. “We need to get going.” She checked her watch. “We’ve got just enough time to get to the store so I can show you the new merchandise that just arrived. I want your opinion on how to best feature it.”

“I’m ready.” She reached under the table for her purse and slung the strap over her shoulder. The day was sunny and she enjoyed the walk with her sister. By the time they’d reached the boutique, she had her mind on business. She could think about Jake later.

There was a very special piece of jewelry she wanted to finish this afternoon. It was time for her to let Jake know her decision.

Chapter Fourteen

Everything was under control. The sauce for the spaghetti was simmering on the back burner and the water was gently bubbling for the pasta. As soon as Jake arrived, she could put the pasta on to boil. The garden salad was in the refrigerator and the vinaigrette was on the counter, waiting to be added to the greens at the last second.

Sapphire glanced around the dining room. The table was set and she had a bunch of fresh wildflowers sitting in a glass vase to brighten everything up. She’d stopped at the market on the way home and picked up the cheerful flowers along with the necessary groceries to prepare tonight’s meal. When she’d talked to Jake earlier he’d said he would bring the wine.

There was nothing else to do but wait. Her stomach fluttered and she rested her hand over it. For some reason she was nervous, which was silly considering how many meals she and Jake had shared while he was her bodyguard, and even since they’d started dating, if you could really call what they’d been doing dating.

She wasn’t sure what to call it, but they were definitely together. And if she had it her way they would make it permanent.

That’s why she was a bundle of nerves. Two very special presents were tucked away, waiting for the right moment for her to present them. It might be tonight, but it might not be. She wanted to feel Jake out about his plans for the future. A lot of guys got nervous when a woman started talking about taking things to the next level. She didn’t think Jake would be one of those guys, but you never knew.

This was important to her. The most important thing she’d ever done.

Her buzzer sounded and she hurried to the intercom. “Yes.”

“It’s me, babe.” As always, his deep voice had an effect on her body, making her skin tingle in the most wonderful way.

“Come on up.” She hit the buzzer and held it for a couple seconds before releasing it.

She took a deep breath and slowly released it while she peered in the mirror in the foyer. Her hair was held away from her face in a hammered silver clip. Her earrings were simple drops of silver. She’d opted to wear a flowing black skirt and topped it with a butter-yellow blouse. Simple, yet elegant.

Her feet were bare. She hated wearing shoes unless she had to.

When a knock sounded on the door, she checked the peephole and opened the door. Jake leaned against the doorjamb, exuding confidence and masculine appeal. His hair was slightly windblown, giving him a casual, sexy look. He was wearing a pair of dark-wash jeans, and his open leather jacket revealed a crewneck sweater in a charcoal-gray that deepened the blue of his eyes.

“Hey.” He stepped inside, dropped a quick kiss on her brow and shut the door. He handed her a bottle of red wine before removing his jacket and toeing off his boots. They made the perfect picture of a couple preparing to enjoy an evening at home.

She only wished her stomach would settle. “How was your day?” And didn’t she sound all fifties housewife. It annoyed her.

“Good.” He draped an arm over her shoulder and came with her into the kitchen. “How about you?”

“Productive.”

Jake took the wine from her and rooted around her utensil drawer until he found the opener. “How is Topaz?” He made quick work of the cork and held up the bottle.

To give herself time to gain her composure, Sapphire took her time getting glasses out of the cupboard. “She’s busy with wedding plans.”

Jake chuckled. “Yeah, John says he nods a lot and agrees with whatever she wants.” He half-filled a glass and handed it to her before filling one for himself.

She frowned. “Doesn’t sound like he’s very enthused about getting married.” Even though she knew he was the one who’d first broached the subject of marriage.

“Oh, he’s enthused, all right.” A devilishly sexy grin flashed across Jake’s face. “He’s more concerned with the end result than with what leads up to it. As long as Topaz is happy, he doesn’t care what she does for the wedding. He just wants his ring on her finger.”

Sapphire glanced down at her bare finger and turned away to check on the spaghetti sauce. She dumped the pasta into the boiling water and stirred. “Dinner in ten minutes.”

Strong arms hooked around her waist and she was pulled back against a broad chest. “You okay? You seem distracted.”

She leaned briefly against Jake, soaking in his heat, his caring, before making herself step away. “I’m fine. It was just a busy day.”

Jake let her go and perched on one of the two stools on the opposite side of the counter that divided the kitchen from the eating area. “Busy in what way?”

She wiped her hands on a dishtowel and ordered herself to stop acting like a ninny. There was no need to feel such a deep disappointment that her sister was getting married and she wasn’t. She and Jake had only started dating. There was that word again. Dating wasn’t exactly what they were doing. Sleeping together, having stupendous sex. That’s what they were doing.

“Spent some time at Sisters’ Jewels this morning checking out the new merchandise and tweaking the displays. Then I went with Topaz while she tried on wedding dresses. She found the one she wanted.”

Jake nodded. “That’s good, isn’t it?”

Men could be clueless at times. “Everything starts with the dress. Now she can make all her final decisions about her bouquet, decorations and all the other details.”

“I thought this was a small affair.”

“It is, but that doesn’t mean it won’t be a nice wedding with all the little touches that will make it special. She’s only getting married once so she wants it to be everything she ever dreamed of.”

“Okay, I get that. John mentioned I’d have to get measured for a tux soon.”

She made a noncommittal sound, but her heart sped up as she pictured Jake in a tux. In jeans he was ruggedly handsome, but in a tuxedo, he’d be devastating. She needed to change the subject. “After lunch, I worked on some new jewelry pieces until it was time to start dinner.”

“Anything you can show me?” His interest always warmed her because she knew it was genuine.

“Maybe.”

Jake rested one elbow on the counter and sipped his wine, a man at ease. She envied him that. They chatted about local news and he asked after her parents. By then it was time for her to drain the pasta and add it to the sauce. She poured it into a large serving bowl and carried it to the table. Then she tossed the salad and vinaigrette together. Jake grabbed her wine and brought it with him. Everything was ready for them to enjoy.

He held her chair for her and she sat, very aware of his large presence behind her. He filled her plate with spaghetti before filling his own. Then he sat and dug into the meal. She picked up her fork, plastered a smile on her face and tried to make conversation while they ate.

Jake wished he knew what was going on with Sapphire. She’d seemed distracted from the moment he’d walked through the door. Oh, she said all the right things and smiled, but it didn’t reach her eyes. Something was bothering her.

Had she had time to think about last night? Was she having second thoughts about them? His fingers tightened around his fork and he forced himself to ease up on his grip before he bent the metal utensil. No need to borrow trouble. He’d find out what was bothering her before the evening was over.

The meal, as always, was absolutely delicious. He loved sharing dinner with Sapphire, the cozy atmosphere, the obvious care and preparation that went into it. It made him feel as though he belonged.

He couldn’t lose that.

He bided his time, waiting until she’d eaten her fill, which wasn’t much. Her plate was still mostly full. She’d spent a lot of her time pushing around the spaghetti on her plate rather than eating it.

He set his fork down and shoved aside his empty plate. She immediately smiled at him. “Coffee?”

He shook his head. “No. I’d much rather you tell me what’s wrong.”

The immediate tension in her shoulders, the tightening of her mouth told him he was right. There was something wrong.

Whatever it was, he would fix it. He was good at fixing things.

“It’s nothing.” Her gaze fluttered away from his and his gut clenched. She wasn’t telling him the truth.

He reached out, cupped her face in his hand and turned it until she was facing him. “That’s not true. Obviously something is bothering you.”

He willed her to tell him.

She waved her hand in front of her. “It’s really nothing.” She slipped out of her chair, grabbed her plate and carried it to the kitchen. Jake sighed and stood, holding his tongue until the leftovers were cleared away and the dishwasher filled.

She looked good even while she was up to her elbows in soapy water scrubbing pots. The black skirt she wore swirled around her slender calves, while the yellow silk blouse draped over her breasts. With her wild curly hair and bare feet she resembled a gypsy more than a successful businesswoman.

Jake helped where he could, but always watched her, unable to keep his eyes off Sapphire. She drew his gaze wherever she was, whatever she was doing.

When there was nothing left to do in the kitchen, he lifted her into his arms, surprising a gasp from her. “What are you doing?” She clung to his shoulders.

He carried her into the living room and sat on her sofa, keeping a tight grip on her. “I’m finding out what’s wrong. We can sit here all night long but, one way or another, you will tell me.”

“Jake.”

He shook his head. “Don’t try to put me off, Sapphire. I need to know what’s going on inside your head.” His arms tightened around her, even though he knew he couldn’t really keep her if she didn’t want to stay. He asked the question that had the power to destroy him. “Are you having second thoughts about us now that you know how far I’ll go in order to protect you?”

He’d feared that she’d think over everything he’d done, the fact that he’d broken the law to get the documents to incriminate Gregor, and decide she couldn’t live with that. “Are you trying to decide how to break it to me that you no longer want to see me?”

That would destroy him. The woman in his arms held the key to his future, but he wasn’t about to give up without a fight.

Sapphire couldn’t believe how far away from the actual truth Jake’s thoughts were. Every muscle in his body was like stone as he waited for her to answer him. “No, that’s not what I’m thinking. Not at all.”

He relaxed somewhat, but not totally.

“Then what is it?” He brushed aside a lock of hair, his touch so very gentle. “’Cause, babe, you’re killing me. I can’t fix it if I don’t know what’s wrong.”

That summed up Jake perfectly. He was a fixer, a doer, the kind of man who took action with no apologies. She knew for a fact he’d followed her this morning on her walk to meet Topaz. She hadn’t seen him, but she’d felt his eyes on her, the constant buzz of awareness she experienced whenever he was around.

“You followed me this morning, didn’t you?”

His eyes narrowed but he nodded. “Yes. How did you know? You didn’t see me.” A statement, not a question.

“No, I didn’t see you. I felt you.” She’d known he’d answer her truthfully even if he didn’t want to. That kind of honesty was priceless. Oh, if he could have gotten away with never telling her, he’d have been happier. She could see that in his eyes. But he wouldn’t lie to her.

“Is that what this is about?” he asked. “I didn’t want you out on the street by yourself even with my guy still watching Gregor. I won’t apologize for it.”

Her man was getting tense again. His arms were like steel around her shoulders. She patted his chest. “It’s okay. I understand why you did it.”

“Then if you’re okay with me following you this morning, what’s bothering you?” He brushed his thumb over her bottom lip and the innocent stroke sent a flush of warmth cascading through her.

It was now or never. If she didn’t do this in the next few minutes she’d lose her nerve. She pushed out of his lap, but his arms tightened, refusing to release her. “Just for a second. Please, Jake.”

She felt his reluctance as he let her go. Sapphire hurried to her studio where she pulled the bracelet and ring out of a drawer. Keeping both tightly clenched in her hands, she marched back to the living room.

Deciding it was better for her not to be sitting on his lap while she was having this discussion, she stood in front of him. Jake sat forward on the sofa, legs spread wide, elbows resting on his knees. But he wasn’t relaxed. She could practically see the tension rolling off him.

She licked her suddenly dry lips and launched into her prepared speech. “I know you like to be in control in the bedroom.”

If it were possible, Jake’s tension grew until it filled the room, permeating the air around them. He was like a living statue, not moving, barely breathing. She wished she knew what was going through his mind.

Dinner churned in her belly, but she was committed now. “I never imagined acting that way in the bedroom. Giving up control to a man.”

Jake linked his hands together, knuckles white. She had a feeling he was trying to keep from reaching for her. “I know it’s a lot to ask of you,” he began.

Knees weak, she perched on the edge of the coffee table. “It is a lot, but it’s what you need.” Keeping her hands closed around the bracelet and ring, she wrapped her arms around herself. This was much harder than she’d anticipated. And it shouldn’t be. This was Jake, the man she loved and trusted.

“Where do you see us going from here?” Now that she’d started, she wanted everything laid out between them. “I mean, do you want to continue as we are, having sex but keeping our own apartments? Do you see us living together somewhere down the road?” She held her breath, her heart pounding in anticipation. Please say yes.

Jake bolted from the sofa, his face hard as stone, his gaze narrowed. “Fuck no. I don’t see us living together.” He moved toward her, but she pulled back.

Jumping up from the coffee table, she took a step away. She looked down, expecting to see a hole in her chest where her heart resided. He’d just ripped hers out. So, he didn’t see them living together. All her hopes and dreams for the future went up in flames, leaving her feeling numb.

“I see,” she began. She had to bring this conversation to an end and get rid of Jake before she started to cry. That just wouldn’t do. “So you just want the occasional night of sex. That would work for you.” She’d be sophisticated and adult about this even if it killed her.

“Fuck.” He dragged his hand through his hair. “I’m not doing this right. No, I don’t want to live with you.”

“You already said that,” she snapped. He didn’t have to sound quite so appalled by the idea.

“Sapphire.” He took another step in her direction, but she moved away again. She couldn’t let him touch her. She’d fall completely apart if he did.

“Babe,” he began again, his gaze softening as it fell upon her. “I don’t want to live with you. I want to marry you.” He reached into his jeans pocket and drew something out. He opened his palm to reveal a platinum band with a single solitary diamond.

Thunderstruck, she stared at the shiny stone. Jake went down on one knee in front of her. “Marry me.”

Sapphire trembled. There were no words of love from Jake, just the blunt proposal. But she knew her man well. From Jake, a ring was an undying promise of love and devotion.

“I have something for you first.” She ignored his dark scowl and opened her own hands in front of her. “I made these, for you, for us.”

He studied the ring and the bracelet. “Why?”

She licked her lips. “I know how much you need control, need to know I’ll surrender to you in the bedroom.” She held up the bracelet she’d crafted. “It has the logo from your company, the shield with two swords. That’s you. The protector. The knight in more than name.”

His eyes grew darker and if she weren’t mistaken his cheeks were tinged red. “Babe, I’m no hero.”

He was, he just didn’t realize it. “I put sapphires on it to represent me. The two of us together. A promise. A pledge.”

Jake swallowed hard as he studied the bracelet. “What does it mean?”

Sapphire felt as though her heart would explode, it was so filled with love. “I’ll wear the bracelet as a constant reminder that I’m yours.” She opened her other hand to reveal the ring she’d crafted. “This is for you if you want it. It’s the same design and would fit on your pinky finger.” Her fingers itched to close around it, but she kept her palm open, displaying the ring. “That is, if you want to wear it. You don’t have to.”

Jake had never been in love with a woman before, wasn’t even sure he knew what the feeling was like, until now. Sapphire stood before him, making herself more vulnerable to him than if she was standing naked.

He studied the two beautiful pieces of jewelry she’d created with her creativity and own two hands. His heart thudded heavily in his chest and his dick grew hard. This beautiful, special woman was pledging herself to him, willing to give him what he needed from her. He’d never met anyone as selfless as Sapphire.

Furthermore, she saw him as some kind of hero, a knight. Maybe a tarnished one, but that was okay by him.

He swallowed the lump in his throat. “I’d love for you to wear the bracelet and I’d be honored to wear the ring you made.”

Her smile lit up the entire room. Hell, it lit up the entire world, his world. “But you still haven’t answered my question. He held the diamond engagement ring up. “Will you marry me?”

She nodded, her eyes welling with tears. “Yes. Yes, I’ll marry you.”

He took her hand in his and slipped the ring on her finger. Then he surged to his feet and kissed her, sealing their pact. She was truly his now.

As always, she opened to him, her mouth accepting him, her tongue dueling with his. He craved the taste of her, the warmth and caring. The commitment.

Then he felt her pushing against his shoulders. He lightened the kiss, letting their mouths barely touch for a few seconds before pulling totally away.

She held up the bracelet and ring in front of her. He took the bracelet, more of a cuff really, and snapped it around her waist. Savage satisfaction filled him. She belonged to him totally.

Sapphire lifted his hand and slipped the broad, heavy band onto the pinky finger of his right hand. This was his promise to her, to care for her always and to never abuse her trust. No one had ever given him a gift this precious. “You won’t be sorry,” he promised her.

“I know.” She cupped his cheeks and pulled his head lower so she could reach him. “I love you, Jake Knight.”

Something inside him snapped. He had to have her. Now. She was wearing his ring and the bracelet that signified her acceptance of him, but it wasn’t enough. He needed to mark her with his body.

He bent down, tossed her over his shoulder and headed to the bedroom with her happy laughter ringing in his ears.

Chapter Fifteen

Sapphire hung over Jake’s shoulder as he carried her to the bedroom. The flash of heat in his eyes left her with no doubts about how they were going to spend the rest of their evening. He’d tossed her over his shoulder as though she weighed nothing and, she admitted to herself, it was quite a turn-on. Jake was incredibly strong, but she never feared he’d use it against her.

From her vantage point, she had a great view of his butt and would have patted it but she was too busy admiring her engagement ring. She turned her hand one way, then another. The ring was simple in design, but it suited her perfectly and fit as though it had been made for her. The bracelet she’d crafted circled her wrist, an endless promise. And he was wearing the ring she’d given him. The only way this night could get more perfect would be if Jake told her he loved her.

And he had in his own way. She would be content with that. Actions spoke louder than words and Jake was indeed a man of action. He leaned over and she went tumbling forward, her back hitting the mattress. She bounced once before settling.

Jake ripped his sweater over his head, tossing it aside. Thick muscles bunched and rippled across his chest and arms. She wanted to touch him.

Sapphire came up on her knees and scooted to the end of the bed. She splayed her hands over his muscular torso, kneading it, stroking it. His breathing grew harsh and he placed his hands over hers, stopping her from teasing his nipples with her thumbs.

He took a step back, but tugged her with him. “Come.”

She scrambled off the bed to stand in front of him. He brushed back a few stray locks of her hair from her face before reaching behind and undoing the clip that was holding the bulk of it back. He tossed the clip onto her nightstand and threaded his fingers through the thick mass.

“I love your hair.” He fisted it in his hands and gently tugged her closer. “It’s so wild and alive, just like you.” He kissed her. Not a gentle kiss, but one of claiming, of ownership. He took her mouth and she opened to him, giving him whatever he needed. His mouth tasted of spices and wine from dinner. It was hot and masculine and wholly consuming. She rested her hands on his bare flesh, feeling the heavy thud of his heart against her palm and the rise and fall of his chest as his breathing grew more ragged.

She wasn’t in any better shape. Her lungs were starved for air by the time he released her. Her entire body was quivering with need, the surface of her skin tingling and alive.

Jake slid his hands over her throat, across her collarbone to the top button of her blouse. Slowly, he undid it, then the next button and the next, until the waistband of her skirt stopped him from releasing the last two. He tugged on her blouse, pulling it away from her skirt. He made quick work of the final closures and shoved the garment down her arms. It fluttered to the floor behind her.

“Beautiful,” he murmured. He cupped her heavy mounds of her breasts through the silky fabric of her bra, his thumb circling her engorged nipple. “Perfect.” He bent down, captured the nub and sucked hard. Sapphire cried out as she felt the tug of his mouth all the way to her womb. Heat flooded her pussy, followed by a rush of liquid arousal.

Jake found the closure in the back and released the hooks. He pulled the straps down her arms and the bra joined the other discarded pieces of clothing.

“Take off your skirt.” He bent down and yanked off his socks, leaving him clad in only his jeans. He opened the snap, but didn’t make any further move to remove them. His cock was hard, tenting the front of his jeans.

Sapphire reached behind and pulled down the zipper. The rasping sound was unusually loud, adding to the growing tension. She gave a shimmy and the material flowed over her hips, pooling at her feet. Her bikini panties were the only thing left covering her and there was barely enough material to cover her mound.

His eyes followed every curve of her body, from her breasts to her waist and hips, down her legs to her bare feet.

“Finish it.” His voice was rough and deep. Every muscle of his torso was sharply delineated and a fine sheen of sweat covered it.

Sapphire hooked her thumbs in the band and shoved them down, stepping out of them and kicking them away. “I want to see you.” It wasn’t fair that she was naked and he wasn’t.

One corner of his mouth kicked up. “Want to see me, do you?”

“Yes.” She eyed the tight fit of his jeans and licked her lips. “I definitely want to see you.”

He gave a bark of laughter and unzipped his jeans. “Never let it be said I disappointed a lady.” He shoved his pants down and kicked them away. He’d forgone underwear again tonight, so he was gloriously naked, his cock jutting toward her.

She reached out her hand but he shook his head. She lowered it, feeling slightly frustrated. “That’s not fair,” she pouted.

“You won’t be disappointed,” he promised. “Turn around, put your hands on the bed and lean forward.”

Sapphire faced the bed, glancing over her shoulder to give him what she hoped was a sexy look before putting both palms flat on the mattress. She felt him behind her, large and radiating heat and sexual energy.

His foot tapped the inside of hers. “Spread your legs wider.”

The position left her vulnerable and open. She didn’t hesitate. Her breasts ached to be touched and her pussy was practically begging him to fuck her it was so wet and ready.

Strong hands stroked down her back and cupped her ass. She’d done some reading online and knew that some dominants liked to spank women, but he never had. It was like he’d said. He liked control, but he wouldn’t ever do anything that might hurt her in the remotest way. Instead of feeling controlled, she felt cherished and protected.

His fingers kneaded her behind. “I love your ass. It’s so full and firm.” Lips grazed the mounds, followed by the scrape of teeth. Goose bumps raced down her legs and she gasped.

Jake stroked down her thighs to her knees before gliding upward. She sucked in a breath, silently pleading with him to touch her pussy. He didn’t disappoint.

A thick finger pushed into her slick channel. “You’re already hot and wet.” She didn’t answer and there really wasn’t anything to say. She was always horny around Jake. It would have been embarrassing except for the fact he was always aroused around her too. The feeling was obviously mutual.

He pulled his finger out and her inner muscles clamped around it, trying to keep it inside her, but he wouldn’t be stopped. She heard a sucking sound that was quickly followed by a hum of pleasure. “You taste sweet and spicy at the same time.” Her face flamed when she realized he’d tasted her arousal. “What should I do with you?”

She had plenty of suggestions, but kept them to herself for now, sensing Jake was enjoying prolonging the moment and building the tension for both of them. She went up on her toes and swung her ass from side to side to entice him.

Jake swore, his hands gripped her hips and she felt his hot breath on the slick folds of her pussy. He was on his knees behind her, looking at her. There was no hiding how much she wanted him and she didn’t want to. She glanced to the left and looked at her ring and the bracelet, both symbols of her love for him. There was no greater aphrodisiac in the world than love.

She wanted to give him whatever he needed. Not that it was all altruistic on her part. Oh no. She knew Jake would more than see to her satisfaction, and several times, before the night was done.

His tongue stroked over her sensitive folds, wringing a cry of pleasure from deep within her. “That’s it,” he crooned. “Give me everything.”

Jake was diabolical in his efforts to push her over the edge. His tongue circled her clit, teasing it from its hood before sucking on the sensitive nub. She fisted her hands in the comforter even as she rocked her hips back, silently begging him not to stop.

One finger filled her, then two, stretching her wide, preparing her for his penetration. He fucked her with his fingers, curling them on each retreat, finding the spot that drove her wild.

Her hips bucked as he used tongue and mouth and fingers on her. Her hair tumbled over her face and shoulders. She buried her face in the comforter and cried out. Her orgasm crashed over her, sweeping her away in a wave of pleasure. Jake’s strong fingers continued to plunge in and out until she all but collapsed on the bed.

Jake stood and wrapped his hands around her waist, keeping her upright. He positioned himself behind her, fitted the head of his cock against her opening and pushed, filling her completely.

“Too much,” she gasped. Aftershocks from her orgasm still shook her and her pussy spasmed around his cock, clutching at his hard length.

“It’s not too much. You can take me.” He slid almost all the way out before forging inward. All the nerve endings in her sheath were stimulated with each thrust. Tears leaked from the corners of her eyes, the pleasure was almost unbearable. With each stroke his sac brushed against her clit, sending spasms of pleasure rushing through her.

Jake kept his thrusts slow and easy, but he never stopped. Her body grew aroused all over again until she was moving with him, reaching for another orgasm.

“That’s it,” he encouraged. “You can come for me again, babe. Just let go. Let me take care of you.”

He banded one arm around her waist to keep her upright and his other hand shifted lower, his fingers widening the lips of her pussy. He stroked one of them over her clit and she came.

She called his name, letting herself go with the pleasure. Her face buried against the comforter, she gave another cry. The muscles in her legs quivered. Jake pulled his cock out of her and released her, keeping one arm around her waist as she slid to the floor, her legs unable to hold her any longer.

She sprawled on the floor, her face against the edge of the mattress. She gasped for breath, shivering as an aftershock shook her. Her entire body was alive, sensitive to the slightest touch. Her hair was covering her face so she brushed it away and peered up at Jake, who was standing beside her.

His expression was one of fierce satisfaction. His cock was still fully erect. He hadn’t come. She’d had two orgasms but he’d yet to find release. When his gaze caught hers, he crooked his finger at her. Limbs shaking, she managed to turn to face him, gripping his thighs for support. His cock bobbed in front of her, a tangible reminder of what he hadn’t done yet.

“Suck my cock, babe.” He tangled his fingers in her hair and brought her mouth level with his erection. “You know what I need. Give it to me.”

Sapphire opened her mouth and took the head inside, sucking on it like a lollipop. She ran her tongue around the ridge, drawing a moan from him. His grip on her hair tightened, making her scalp tingle. “Yes,” he groaned. “More. Take more of me.”

She gripped the base of his cock and stroked up his hard length. On the down stroke, she took him deeper into her mouth, pulling her cheeks in tight for greater suction. Her free hand captured his balls, gently manipulating them until his sac grew hard and drew up tight to his body.

She lapped at the slit in the tip of his shaft, gathering the liquid that leaked out. He tasted salty and musky, all man. Pulses of pleasure had her body still humming, but gradually the satisfaction turned to arousal again. She rubbed her aching breasts against one of his hard, hairy thighs, gaining some relief.

Jake growled and then gently pulled her away, her mouth reluctantly releasing him. “Now. I can’t wait any longer.”

He all but dragged her off the floor and tossed her onto the bed with her legs hanging over. He lifted them and shoved them over his shoulders. Cock hard and thick, he pushed inward, his eyes never leaving her face.

She sucked in a breath and bit her bottom lip as he surged forward, forcing her swollen tissues to stretch, to accept him once again. She raised her hands above her head and gripped the comforter, letting him know she would give him whatever he needed, that she trusted him completely.

Jake didn’t know how his dick hadn’t already exploded. The sweet taste of Sapphire’s cream lingered on his lips and tongue, his cock throbbed, begging for release. Yet, he clenched his teeth and held on, not wanting this moment to end.

It was such a turn-on when Sapphire did as he asked with no hesitation. The way she’d bent forward, spread her legs wide and let him look at her. More than that, let him feast on her pussy and finger-fuck her until she came. Then he’d taken her from behind and she’d orgasmed again for him. He’d barely hung on, but he had.

Then her mouth, her glorious, hot, moist mouth had sucked him as hard as her cunt had. She’d played with his balls until he’d almost shot his load into her mouth. But he hadn’t wanted tonight to end that way. Another night, and soon, but tonight he wanted to be buried in her wet heat, her eyes watching his as they both came.

Sapphire was spread before him, her arms raised above her and resting on the mattress—a sign of her surrender and trust—a bounty for the taking. And his. Always his. His ring glinted on her finger and the bracelet she’d created was wrapped around her wrist, a tangible reminder of agreement to relinquish control to him in the bedroom.

His chest expanded and he sucked in a breath. Deep inside him, something hard and painful settled. He belonged with this woman and would do whatever it took to keep her safe and happy. And heaven help anyone who tried to hurt her.

Feeling fierce and possessive, he leaned forward, the change in position driving his cock even deeper, and cupped her breasts. Her nipples were more red than pink and puckered tight. He lightly pinched the nubs and her pussy spasmed around his shaft. Stars exploded in his mind, like fireworks or gunfire. He released her breasts and clamped his hands around her hips, holding on for dear life. Only Sapphire anchored him to the here and now.

He growled and began to fuck her hard, keeping his thrusts short and fast. His balls felt as if they were bound with shrink-wrap, his dick swelling until he could barely move within her.

His orgasm shot from his balls, up his shaft and out through the tip. And it was endless. He had no idea how long he held her there, her legs draped over his shoulders, his head bowed as he tried to catch his breath.

When he finally looked at her, she had one arm over her face and her lips were parted as she sucked air into her lungs. Carefully, he lowered her legs from his shoulders and removed his dick. He was still hard and she flinched slightly.

He frowned, hoping he hadn’t hurt her. Then she lowered her arm and gifted him with a sleepy smile. There was no other woman as giving as Sapphire. How he’d gotten lucky enough to find her was beyond him, but he was sure as hell keeping her now that he had her.

He lifted her into his arms, walked around to the side of the bed and yanked down the covers, depositing her carefully on the sheet. Leaving her briefly, he went to the bathroom, cleaned up and then ran a soft cloth under warm water. Carrying the cloth back to the bed, he ran it over her arms and chest before cleaning between her thighs. She sighed but didn’t object.

He tossed the damp cloth onto the floor and crawled into bed beside her, tugging her into his arms. Sapphire was already asleep.

He was still holding her tight when they woke the next morning. She smiled sleepily at him and he kissed her, letting their lips glide together, his tongue trailing over her bottom one. “Good morning, babe.”

“Good morning.” She rubbed her hand over his chest and his dick jumped.

He grabbed her hand and kissed the finger wearing his ring and then her wrist, which was covered in the bracelet. “I love you.” The words were out of his mouth before he’d even realized he was going to say them. He stiffened, but then slowly relaxed. It felt right to say them. He’d never said them to another woman and never would. Sapphire was the only woman for him. She accepted him as he was and he trusted her to stay with him through thick and thin.

Maybe there were a lot of things he couldn’t control in this world, but one thing he knew he could always count on was Sapphire’s love.

She buried her face against his chest and gave a suspicious sniff. He shifted position until he could see her face and frowned at the tears welling in her eyes. “What’s wrong?” Tension thrummed through him. Didn’t she want him to love her?

She shook her head and flung her arms around his neck. “Nothing is wrong. Everything is right. I love you too.”

He smiled then, knowing he’d been right to say the words. She needed to hear them as much as he did. “How about we get a shower and some breakfast.”

“Sounds good.” She swiped at her eyes, dropped a kiss on his lips and crawled out of bed. He admired her naked ass for a second before joining her in the bathroom and the shower.

An hour later, they were sitting at the kitchen table sipping coffee when Jake’s phone rang. He checked the caller ID and answered when he saw it was Dolan. “Yeah.”

“Looks like your boy is in trouble. It’s all over the front page of the newspaper.”

“Is it now?” Jake felt a broad smile crossing his face.

“He’s going to be busy for a long time. He might even go to jail.”

“Thanks for your help, man. Check your account today for final payment.”

“Will do. If you need me again, just call the new number. This phone is history.” The call ended and Jake tucked his phone back into his pocket. He’d dump his phone later, making sure to leave parts of it scattered all over the city. He and Dolan had met briefly yesterday and exchanged new numbers so they could keep in touch.

“What was that about?” Sapphire took a bite of her toast, munching it as she waited for an answer.

Jake rubbed his thumb over the ring he wore on his pinky. It was his reminder, his promise to always protect the woman he loved, and to be honest with her. “Seems as though Ivan Gregor is in trouble. Apparently it’s all over the news this morning.”

“Serves him right.” He was amused by her fierce reaction, even though he knew he shouldn’t be. Sapphire had a deep sense of justice and that’s what this was, plain and simple.

“I don’t think we need to worry about him any longer. He’s got his hands full dealing with other issues and his entire life is going to come under the microscope for a long time to come. He’s going to want to keep his nose as clean as possible to stay out of jail.” Of course, Jake planned to watch the situation carefully and if he felt Sapphire was in danger, he’d take more drastic measures. For now, he felt as though the problem had been dealt with.

“What are your plans for today?” he asked her.

She sipped her coffee and he could practically see the wheels turning in her head. “I thought I’d start planning a wedding.” She smiled at him. “How do you feel about a double wedding?”

“Works for me. Whatever you want.”

She got out of her chair and came around the table to sit in his lap. “Oh, I see what you’re up to. Agree to whatever the little woman wants and just get fitted for the tux.”

“Guilty.” He held up his hand. “I don’t care what you do as long as it makes you happy.”

“You make me happy.” She kissed him but pulled away before he deepened it. “None of that right now. I’ve got a ton of work to take care of and a wedding to plan.”

He growled and playfully patted her butt. “Later.”

“Definitely later,” she agreed. Then she grabbed her phone and hit a number on her speed dial. “Good morning, Topaz. How do you feel about a double wedding?”

Epilogue

Sapphire stood on the magnificent grounds of her parents’ home in upstate New York, admiring the lights twinkling in the trees, the soft music drifting out of the snow-white tent and the murmur of voices all around her.

Strong arms wrapped around her from behind and pulled her against a hard chest. “Happy?”

She looked up at her new husband and smiled. “Completely.” She lifted her hand and admired the plain platinum band that nestled next to her diamond ring. The bracelet she’d made wrapped around her wrist, sapphires sparkling in the light. “You?”

Jake pressed his face against her curls and kissed her head. “More than I ever thought possible.”

Her heart skipped a beat before settling again. In the weeks leading up to the wedding, Jake had started opening up more with her, telling her some things about his past. He’d always be more self-contained than most, but that was okay. He loved her. His telling her that was the same as saying he trusted her, and that meant everything to her.

“Topaz and John look happy.” That was an understatement. Her sister was practically glowing and John looked as proud as a peacock.

“They do, but not as happy as us.” He nipped at her ear, making her shiver.

“Your grandfather is having fun. I think he’s hitting on Mrs. Whittaker.” Sadie Whittaker was her family’s former housekeeper. She’d been retired for ten years, but was still a close family friend.

Jake chuckled. “Wouldn’t surprise me. Granddad’s still got a lot of life in him.”

That was an understatement. Bernard Knight had driven up from Brooklyn in his ’68 Camaro last night. He was fit and spry and looked like a man closer to sixty than eighty-two. She’d met him for the first time several weeks ago and knew where Jake had inherited his stubborn streak. Mr. Knight lived his life by his own rules and paid no mind to what others thought.

“Look, Mom and Dad are dancing.” She pointed at her parents as they took to the dance floor as if they owned it. Her father twirled her mother around while she laughed.

“They can move.” Jake rocked her from side to side. “Did I tell you how gorgeous you look in your dress?” She felt something hard prod her backside and knew Jake was getting aroused.

“You didn’t tell me, but I guessed you liked it.” She rubbed her butt against his growing erection.

“Tease,” he complained. “I know we’re not getting out of here for at least another hour.”

“You’re not having fun?” She turned in his embrace and wrapped her arms around his neck.

“Oh, I’m having fun, but I’ll definitely have more later.” He started to kiss her, then stopped. “Shit.” He turned her so she could see Topaz and John walking toward them. “Don’t move,” Jake warned her and she barely kept from giggling as he kept her strategically placed in front of him to hide his obvious arousal.

“You left the party.” Topaz shot Jake an accusatory look. John simply rolled his eyes.

“Actually, I was the one who left,” Sapphire offered. “I just wanted a moment to let it all sink in.”

Topaz smiled and then twirled around in a circle, arms extended. “We’re married. Can you believe it?”

Sapphire enjoyed her sister’s enthusiasm. From the moment she’d suggested a double wedding, Topaz had thrown herself into the preparations with undisguised glee.

“Here comes the other Jewel,” Jake whispered in her ear. Sapphire peered around Topaz to see their sister Emerald coming toward them with her husband in tow. Jackson kept one arm around his wife as they approached. Emerald had stood as matron of honor for both of them. Jackson had stepped in to act as best man for both grooms.

“Congratulations to you both.” Emerald hugged both sisters. “I hope you’re as happy as Jackson and I.” She glanced at her new brothers-in-law. “You both look like you’re getting ready to bolt.” She gave her husband a knowing look. “I recognize the expression on your faces.”

John held up his hand. “Guilty.”

Sapphire glanced up at Jake, but he simply scowled. “We can’t leave for another hour.” She knew then that he was staying for her. If he had it his way they’d already be on their way to the hotel to spend their wedding night. She loved him even more for wanting to do what he thought she wanted.

“One more dance and then we can say goodbye to everyone,” she promised.

“Really? You don’t want to stay longer?” She could see the growing hope in his eyes.

She shook her head. “One more dance and I promise we’ll leave.”

Jake grabbed her hand and started dragging her toward the opening in the tent. “Hurry up, woman.” She ran to keep up with his long strides, laughing as she went. She glanced back to find Emerald holding her sides and laughing while Topaz simply shook her head at them like they were unruly children. Then John grabbed her sister’s hand and started pulling her behind him. Seemed he was following Jake’s lead.

Then they were on the dance floor, whirling in a circle as the strains of a waltz wafted around them. As Jake spun her around, she saw all her family and close friends smiling at them. She smiled up at her husband and knew she’d made the right decision.

“I love you, Jake.”

His gaze turned tender and he leaned down to whisper in her ear. “I love you too. Now let’s get out of here.”

Content

Stroke of Sapphire
Awakening Desires - 8
by
N. J. Walters

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Epilogue