Her Soldier

This is a work of fiction. All characters and events reside solely in the author’s imagination, and any resemblance to actual people, alive or dead, is purely coincidental. All characters are eighteen years of age or older. ©2017, Annette Fields. No portion of this work can be reproduced in any way without prior written consent from the author with the exception for a fair use excerpt for review and editorial purposes.This title is for adults only. It contains explicit sex acts, adult themes, and material that some folks may find offensive. Please keep out of reach of children.

Table of Contents Her Soldier CHAPTER 1 CHAPTER 2 CHAPTER 3 CHAPTER 4 CHAPTER 5 CHAPTER 6 CHAPTER 7 CHAPTER 8 CHAPTER 9 CHAPTER 10 CHAPTER 11 CHAPTER 12 CHAPTER 13 CHAPTER 14 CHAPTER 15 EPILOGUE

Her Soldier A Military Bad Boy Novella by Annette Fields

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CHAPTER 1 MIA

I hate the military and everything it stands for. Call me unpatriotic, un-American, an ungrateful hippie, whatever works. It’s just how I feel. As an animal-loving, violence-hating vegetarian, I’m an outsider in my highly patriotic, all-American hometown right next to an Air Force base. I’m leaving Highfield, Colorado for greener pastures the first chance I get. Something like 45% of our residents are either retired Air Force or currently serving. Rather than going to college, high school kids are expected to enlist in the military as soon as they graduate. I’ve lost a lot of friends to the military, most of them due to shipping off to basic training and then getting stationed far away. But a few have also lost their lives, which is where most of my hate comes from. I can never support an organization that allows people my age or younger to die “fighting for their country”. So I smile and chat politely with all the new and familiar Airmen who visit Grady’s Pub where I work, but I never give special treatment like some of them seem to expect. When he walks in though, I have to do a double-take and scoop my jaw off the floor. He stands head and shoulders above every other man in the room and even they have to look at him more than

once. His smoldering gray eyes zero in on me and freeze me to my spot behind the bar. I realize my lips are parted and I lick them instinctively. He walks with swagger on long, powerful legs that carries a lean, narrow torso that also fills out the blue Air Force T-shirt he wore. His sculpted arm muscles, decorated in tattoos, are the biggest clue as to what the rest of his body looks like under his clothes. Strong, powerful, and oozing sex. I keep my cool behind the bar as he approaches, trying to look busy and not like I just got hit in the chest with Cupid’s arrow. He slides his lithe, powerful body into a barstool and only then do I look up and smile. “Hi! What can I get you?” His lips turn up in the hint of a smirk toward his sharp cheekbones. Up close, I can see the rough texture of dark stubble coating his jaw. Just from that, I know he’s a rebel. The Air Force has extremely strict standards on clean-shaven faces. He’s either high enough up the chain that no one tells him what to do, or he just doesn’t give a fuck what his boss says. “Give me a second to think, will ya, sweetheart?” His voice is dark, smooth, and laced with a hint of Southern drawl. It makes me want to lean in and feel the vibrations of that sound against my skin. “Sure, of course,” I say, kicking myself mentally. How desperate can I be, jumping to serve him the minute he sits down? He eyes the assortment of liquor bottles behind me with a careful, calculating look. “I’ll take a Bombay Sapphire. Neat.” I try to hide my surprise as I pick up the blue bottle and carefully pour a shot into a glass but he sees my

look and seems amused by it. “Let me guess. You expected me to go for the cheap stuff,” he says as he brings the glass to his lips and sips half of the shot down. “I don’t think I’ve ever touched that bottle since I started working here,” I reply. His guess was right on the money. Military men usually liked their booze cheap and their women cheaper. “And how long is that?” he asks. “About a year. Since I turned twenty-one.” “Local girl, huh?” “Born and raised.” “I’m sorry.” The amusement never leaves his face but his eyes are locked onto me like a sniper’s gun. It’s almost paradoxical how his mouth is turned up playfully but his eyes are smoldering and intense. I can’t tell what he’s thinking, if he’s trying to flirt or teasing is just his conversation style. Either way, I feel sensations over my skin like the gentlest warm breeze from the way he looks at me. “Yeah, me too,” is all I can say before Angie, one of the waitresses, comes up to me for a drink order and I must be pulled away from the handsome, mysterious stranger. “Who is that?” she asks in a voice that’s a bit too loud. It’s obvious who she’s talking about. The bar is empty except for Mr. Bombay Sapphire. “No idea. Some new airman,” I mutter, keeping my voice low as I prepare her drinks. “He’s fucking hot,” she says, still not bothering to keep her voice down and obviously staring. “And available. He’s not wearing a wedding ring.” “That doesn’t mean anything,” I say as I aggressively

stab an olive with a toothpick and plop it into a martini. Maybe I’m biased but I’ve heard too many stories about airmen cheating on their wives and girlfriends. It happened to my best friend Jessa, who just divorced her cheating ex. He claimed it was unreasonable to expect faithfulness after being away for eight weeks of basic training and two years of tech school. I’m not sure why he chose to say vows then. In any case, I don’t trust that a man without a ring is an unmarried one. I can feel Mr. Bombay’s eyes studying me as I finish Angie’s drinks and place them on her tray. It’s not a creepy feeling, just not one that I’m used to. Working behind a bar means I get hit on pretty often but I’m not a supermodel by any means. I have brown hair, brown eyes, not too skinny but not overweight either. Sometimes I don’t think I could be any more average. But Mr. Bombay is looking at me like I’m the only thing capturing his attention and I have no idea why. “Another shot?” I ask him when nothing is left to distract me. “Please. A double this time, sweetheart.” He sets the shot glass on the rubber mat near the sink. “Sorry, we don’t do doubles,” I tell him. He narrows his eyes but he doesn’t seem angry. Just curious. “And why the hell not?” I shrug. “It’s the boss’s policy. I assume to keep people from drinking too much.” “So what’s stopping me from buying shot after shot, local girl?” He says it like a challenge. “My judgement and nothing else,” I reply and can’t help but add, “So you better be nice and treat your bartender right.”

His cautious smirk breaks into a wide grin. “Oh I’ll treat you right, sweetheart but I’m definitely not nice.” I’m not sure what that’s supposed to mean or how I should respond so I busy myself with pouring him two single shots of Bombay. My stomach is flip flopping as I do so. “Best I can do,” I say apologetically as I place the two glasses before him, wondering too late if it’s a dumb move to give a double serving of booze to someone I don’t know. He nods in appreciation as he takes a small swig from the first glass. I notice he doesn’t shoot his liquor which I take as a positive sign. He chooses to take his time and enjoy it. “What’s your name, sweetheart?” he asks. “Mia,” I reply. “I’m Adam. Adam Gunn.” He says it with all the charisma and charm as, “Bond. James Bond.” “Newly stationed in this lovely shithole, Adam?” I ask. “Nah, just here on a training assignment. Nothing but classes and certifications for two weeks, then I’m gone again.” “Gone where?” I’m not sure why I ask. It’s none of my business and I’ll never see him again, wherever he goes. The question comes out almost involuntarily like my body is desperate to know. “Who knows. Wherever my skills are needed.” He finishes the first shot and picks up the second, never taking his eyes off me. “And what skills are those?” I bite my tongue but the question is already out there. I don’t know why I’m asking so many questions,

especially to someone I’ll never see again. But something in me wants to learn more about Adam, to know intimate details about him. “I have many skills, sweetheart.” There’s that teasing again with the suggestive smile and this time it’s accompanied by a wink. My face grows hot and my heartbeat quickens. “But as far as my job goes, I’m a jet mechanic.” He leans back in his chair as if to ease the pressure off me. “I see.” I can’t seem to say anything else. I probably should stop talking before I embarrass myself further. “So what’s your story, sweetheart?” So much for taking pressure off. Inwardly I squirm, knowing I can’t dish back clever innuendos like he can. If he’s hoping to be impressed by me, he’s about to be sorely disappointed. I made it through twenty-two years of life without much to show for it but I hoped that would change soon. “Not much of a story,” I say with a shrug. “Born here, raised here. Saving up the cash to get the hell out.” “You never joined the service?” he asks with a hint of surprise. “Hell no.” “Why not? If you want a ticket out of here, it’s the fastest way while also having a career.” “Not interested in signing my life away to be a government tool,” I answer with more than a hint of bitterness. A throaty chuckle rises from his chest. “Oh we’re all government tools, sweetheart. Might as well get a guaranteed paycheck and benefits rather than fight it.” “Agree to disagree,” I huff. “You can disagree all you want. You’re still wrong.” I narrow my eyes and my temper flares. This guy is

getting under my skin for reasons I can’t explain and he’s thoroughly enjoying it. “Relax, Mia.” It’s the first time he says my name rather than sweetheart. “I didn’t mean to get you all worked up.” “Somehow I doubt that,” I say, crossing my arms in front of my chest. “Well, maybe just a little worked up. But you’re so cute, I couldn’t resist.” He stands from his chair and pulls out his wallet while I feel like I’ve been knocked off my feet. He thinks I’m cute? So he was flirting with me? I realize he’s about to leave and I’m suddenly overwhelmed by the feeling of not wanting him to go. “What do I owe you, sweetheart?” “Oh! Um, fifteen,” I stammer, waffling over whether to ask if he’ll come back. He rifles through his wallet for a moment before taking three 5’s out and placing them on the bar. “I didn’t bring enough cash for a proper tip,” he says apologetically. “It’s okay,” I say. I honestly don’t expect tips from airmen anymore. Most of them are cheapskates. “You can get me next time.” “I got a better idea,” he says, leaning his forearms on the bar. “How about a life tip?” I roll my eyes, knowing he’s going to tell me to enlist. “Not necessary.” “No, really.” He beckons me closer with his index finger. “This is important and I want you to hear it.” I lean forward to humor him. “What?” He takes my chin in his hand and kisses me. He kisses me! His lips are surprisingly soft as they press against

mine fully and firmly. But they’re gone before I have time to react. “Thanks for the drinks, sweetheart.” And before I even realize what’s just happened, I’m watching his broad, muscular back walk out the front door.

CHAPTER 2 ADAM

Was it ballsy of me to kiss the bartender girl? Hell yeah. I half expected to get slapped with how pissy she looked. But I’d been wanting a taste of those pretty lips since I walked in. And to my pleasant surprise, I think I felt her kiss back in that brief moment my lips were on hers. I picture her face as I add more weight to the barbell the next morning at the gym. Oval-shaped and delicate with an adorable smattering of freckles over her nose and cheeks. Sexy dark hair and eyes and the sweetest, pink lips I’ve ever seen on a woman. I wonder what her other lips look like. She’s dark, stormy and intriguing, the complete opposite of the type I’m used to. Bubbly blondes are the ideal back home in Tennessee. So far I’ve appreciated the diversity out here in Colorado, but Mia is sticking out in my mind more than anyone else. I finish loading the bar and and shake out my limbs before I do my last set of deadlifts. It’s carrying 360 pounds and will be a personal record if I can do five reps. Carefully, I position my hands on the bar, adjust my feet, take a deep breath, and lift. The first three reps are easy. By the fourth one, I start to struggle against gravity and the amount of weight pulling me down. It’s 160 pounds more than my body

weight and I need sheer strength to finish my last rep. My mind drifts to Mia again and I remember how her mouth tasted. Only this time I picture kissing her properly. Holding her against me and swiping my tongue against hers as she opens her mouth to me. Grunting with renewed effort, I make it to the top of my rep and set the bar back down. I double over panting, exhausted from exerting more effort that I ever had before. Guess I’ll have to go back to the bar and thank Miss Mia for the motivation. “Holy shit, Big Gunn! Nice lifts!” I wipe my brow and look up to see Conner, one of my fellow Sergeants clapping and beaming at me. He’s the only one allowed to call me that nickname. “Thanks,” I say when I catch my breath. I wipe more sweat off with a towel and peel off my tank top, ready to hit the showers. “Hey, you going to that party tonight?” Conner calls after me. “What party?” I say automatically, not really caring. “Some house party off-base at a civilian’s place. I don’t know much about it but at least half the squadron is going.” I shrug with reluctance. The last thing I want to do is party with a bunch of freshly enlisted underage drinkers who’ve never left the nest before. Especially since I’ll be their boss once my training is completed. “Come on Big Gunn, I need a wingman,” Conner urges, slapping me on the back. “There’s bound to be civilian hotties at this party. I dunno about you but I’m tired of looking at the same old women on base every day.” “Dunno, man. These types of parties aren’t really my

thing,” I say. “Aw come on, what else are you gonna do? Stay home and jack off?” I could visit the bar and see a pretty girl again. But then I realize I don’t know if Mia works tonight. I don’t know anything about her except that she’s anti-military and tastes like mangos. I also don’t know how she’ll react to seeing me two nights in a row. That surprise kiss may have really put her off. Maybe it would be good to keep my mind off her for a night. “Fine,” I sigh. “Just to wingman for you.” “That’s my boy!” He slaps my shoulder again, grinning widely. “We gonna have a hell of a night.” He puts his headphones in and practically skips off to the treadmills. I shake my head and chuckle to myself as I flick my towel over my bare shoulder and head off to the showers. So many of my fellow servicemen are desperate for pussy and I’ll never know why. I’ve been fortunate to have my pick whenever I want a girl. But Mia. Now that girl may be worth begging for another kiss. *** The party is already in full swing by the time we show up. I keep it casual with jeans, a T-shirt, and a light splash of cologne but Conner is acting like he’s looking to impress somebody. He’s got a button down shirt on that’s way too big for him and keeps popping tic-tacs like they’re candy and checking his hair in the car mirror. Worst of all, he’s absolutely drenched in Axe body spray. I have to roll my windows down just to get some

fresh air and not pass out from the chemical smell. We enter the large two-story house and it’s about what you’d expect for a party with people in their early twenties. Music is blaring, people are dancing, drinking, chatting and playing beer pong. I’m only twenty-seven but feel too old for these parties already. “Looking for somebody special?” I ask Conner, watching him as he scans the room. “A girl I’ve been talking to,” he admits as we find red Solo cups and make our way to the beer keg. “Her name’s Sheila. She works at the diner just off base. Said she’d be here with friends.” His eyes stop scanning and he breaks into a wide grin. “There she is!” “Hiiiiii, Connerrrr!” A high-pitched voice with a distinct Valley Girl inflection cuts through the air. The blue-eyed blond making her way over to us suddenly sees me and roams her eyes from my belt buckle to my face. It’s a look I’m used to from women. “Who’s your friend?” she asks in a lower, sultrier voice. “This is Sergeant Gunn,” Conner says, already sounding deflated at Sheila unashamedly eye-fucking me. “I’m Sheila,” she says breathily with an obvious bite of her lower lip. “I bet you sure know how to use a gun.” “Conner’s actually better with guns than me,” I say. “I haven’t touched one since basic but he does combat training for his squadron. We call him Conner McKiller.” She moves closer to me despite my wingman attempt. “And what do you do?” “Um, nothing interesting, really.” I shoot an apologetic look over at Conner and he just shrugs defeatedly and starts chugging his beer. I feel bad for the guy. I’m not out to steal his girl but

I’d be lying if I said this never happened before. “Well it must be interesting if you like it,” Sheila purrs and is practically rubbing up against me. One look and this girl wants my dick and nothing else. I can’t deny that it’s tempting. She’s pretty enough and I’ve had a bit of a dry spell since preparing for this job promotion. But there’s no way I can do that to my boy, Conner. My eyes drift over the other partygoers milling about the house, hoping to see someone in my squadron or really, anyone that I recognize so I can have an excuse to get away from this desperate broad. Just as I finish scanning the open living room, my eyes rest on the stairs and that’s when I see her. Mia. I almost don’t recognize her outside of her work clothes. She wears light makeup, including a red lip color that looks absolutely delicious. Her strapless, pale grey dress contrasts with her tan skin and revealed her long graceful neck and delicate collarbone and shoulders. The more I see of her, the more I want to taste. But there’s something else going on. Something that doesn’t seem right. I can’t hear what she’s saying, but her large doe eyes show fear and discomfort. Her body language is screaming don’t touch me with her arms crossing over her chest. Unfortunately for her, it’s only amplifying her gorgeous tits sitting on her chest. I keep watching her as she leans away from whoever she’s talking to. The throng of people clears and I can see the man she’s talking to. He’s standing close and leaning in aggressively. Her small hands are against his chest trying to push him away. She looks extremely uncomfortable and no one is

helping her. From her lips I can read her saying “No” over and over again and the guy doesn’t seem to be taking no for an answer. I clench my fists at my side as I watch. Before I know it, my legs are moving toward her. Nothing pisses me off more than guys who prey on women who clearly want nothing to do with them. I may have stolen a kiss from her but I could read that she wanted me and took a chance. If she looked as revolted by me as she does with this guy, I never would have done it. As I get closer, the guy moves on to wrapping his arms around her and trying to drag her up the stairs. She’s crying and trying to wriggle free. Her eyes finally catch mine as I make my way across the room. In them I see relief and a plea for help. I don’t know what I’m going to do when I reach her, but I’m going to make that bastard regret this night for the rest of his life.

CHAPTER 3 MIA

“What’s the point of this party again?” I ask Jessa as I turn around in her mirror, checking myself out in the strapless pale grey dress I borrowed from her. I have to admit it doesn’t look too bad. “It’s a divorce party,” she says between poses for her Snapchat selfies. “A celebration of independence and moving forward. Why be sad when you can celebrate? It’s a trend Katy Perry started.” “Why am I not surprised,” I mutter, smoothing my hair out in the mirror. Although for her it made sense. She and her scumbag ex had been separated for months but their divorce had just finalized. While always a faithful Air Force wife, Jessa loves to throw parties and no reason is too trivial. Now as a civilian, she still works at the grocery store on base which offers her great pay and benefits. She’s able to rent a large two-story house with roommates who also enjoy partying. Unsurprisingly, her roommates are in the Air Force as are the bulk of the people they invite. “Hot damn, girl! That dress looks way better on you than it does on me.” Jessa placed her chin on my shoulder and held her arm out in front of us to snap more selfies. “You’re guaran-fuckin’-teed to get lucky tonight.” “With an airman? Not a chance,” I scoff before thinking back to Adam at the bar last night. The way he

teased me and flirted all night, then finished it all with a kiss. My face grows hot as I think about it again for the millionth time, as does my vulva. How can a single, chaste kiss that’s over in under a second get me all hot and bothered? Hot and bothered. That was the phrase he used. “Come on, girl. You gotta broaden your horizons a little,” Jessa says as she applies mascara. “Says the woman who’s celebrating her divorce from an airman,” I shoot back. “Hey, divorced doesn’t mean dead. You know how long it’s been since I’ve had a good lay? Clay was a minute man if he was lucky.” “Wow, TMI.” I dig through my makeup bag and settle on a dark red lipstick. As I carefully apply it, the memory of Adam’s kiss is just that more potent. I feel like I should be angry that he tricked me into that but I’m not. It was over so fast, I never got a chance to really feel it. I find myself wondering what it’s like to really kiss him. To feel the pressure of his mouth, the texture of his stubble and feel what his tongue would do. “Earth to Mia,” Jessa pokes me playfully in the shoulder. “You are such a space cadet today.” I realize I’ve been staring blankly into the mirror, my mouth parted and practically drooling while I fantasize about kissing Adam. “I’m gonna head down,” Jessa says with a final adjustment of her clothes in the mirror. “People are gonna start showing up and you know I gotta be the hostess with the mostest.” “Alright. I’ll head down to the kitchen in a bit.” I prepared a bunch of vegetarian finger foods ahead of time for the party. Vegetarian cooking is my main hobby

and what I hope to make into my profession someday. Jessa was blown away when she first tried my tofu “chicken” curry. She demanded I make the food for all her parties since then. “Remember, you are required to socialize,” she says, poking me again. “Get out there and get some, girl.” “Yes, mom,” I say sarcastically. I know she’s trying to look out for me but I’m just not a social butterfly. Sometimes I do miss having a boyfriend but I tend to be pretty picky. Any guy I date has to be okay with my vegetarianism, first of all and I lose most of them there. One guy even tried to trick me into eating meat. I’m hoping once I get out of this Air Force town, I can find someone who’s more open minded. I finish applying eye shadow and mascara before deciding I look good enough and head downstairs. The music has started and people are coming in and starting to mill around. The next hour flies by as I go back and forth to the kitchen to restock what people are eating so fast. My veggie nachos and bruschetta disappear as soon as I turn around, then my spring rolls soon after that. It isn’t until I’m setting out the third platter of nachos that I feel a hand on my arm. “Relax, Barefoot Contessa. Slow down for a minute and have a drink.” When I stop to look, it’s an airman with blond hair slicked back and crooked teeth in his smile. He’s holding out a red Solo cup to me and I realize I haven’t socialized with anyone since coming downstairs. I force a smile and accept the cup from him. “Thanks.” “I’m Billy,” he says, extending his hand. “Mia,” I reply, accepting his handshake and wincing at

the amount of pressure he uses. It feels like he wants to crush my bones. “You seem to know your way around a kitchen, miss Mia.” Billy leans in uncomfortably close. “You’d make good wife material.” Wow, you really know how to make a girl’s skin crawl. “Um, thanks.” I look away from him and scan the crowd of people for Jessa. I need an excuse to get away from this guy. Just as my eyes fall on the front door, a tall, musclebound figure walks in and my heart stops. It’s him. Adam. What the hell is he doing here? He walks in with another airman and a small blonde girl makes a beeline straight toward them, practically attaching herself to Adam’s hip. In a panic, I turn away before he can see me. I never expected to see him again, let alone at my best friend’s house party! “Um, I need to check on the party platter in the other room,” I say to Billy and run to the back of the house before Adam can get a glimpse of me. I pick up empty party trays strewn out about the den as I try to get my thoughts in order. What are the odds of Adam Gunn coming to this party? Not too far-fetched if I think about it. Highfield isn’t a huge town and there’s guaranteed to be nothing fun to do on base. That blonde girl seems awfully familiar with him, I think as I make my way back to the kitchen while keeping an eye out for Billy. I wonder if she’s his girlfriend or flavor of the week. No, that’s not fair. You don’t know the guy. But it does make that kiss feel more forbidden, taboo.

Who knows, though. Maybe he kisses all his female bartenders. I wash and dry the trays before getting more spring rolls out of the fridge and arrange them carefully. This is where I’d rather be all night. Not having to deal with awkwardness from Billy or Adam’s smoldering gaze. Just in the kitchen with my little food creations. Still, hiding from two people at a house party would be no easy task. “There you are!” Jessa leaps into view, her skin flushed with a warm glow and swaying slightly on her feet. She points a finger and narrows her eyes at me. “Have you been socializing?” “Uh, a little. Not by choice,” I say. “Come on, Miaaaaa,” she whines. “There are so many hot guys here! You’re not gonna find a cute face to ride if you’re slaving away in the kitchen! Don’t worry about the food, fuck! You’re making me feel bad.” She grabs a fresh cup and pours half of her drink into it before shoving it at me. “Loosen up, girl,” she commands. I accept the drink from her and take a swig. It’s one of those cheap margaritas with just tequila and margarita mix. It’s strong but I trust her more than anything. “Hey, so do you know everyone here?” I ask, already feeling the light, tingling effects of the alcohol. “Atta girl, I knew you had your eye on someone,” Jessa grins. “Almost but not all. People bring friends and friends of friends, you know.” “How about the tall guy with the dark hair in the front room?” I ask. Jessa turned to look and immediately whipped back around to face me. “The guy who looks like an Abercrombie model? No, but I wish! He came in with

Danny Conner who was in Clay’s squadron.” “He came to my work last night,” I confess. I’d been torn on telling Jessa about the kiss. Knowing her, she’d march me right up to him and tell him to finish what he started. “So go talk to him!” She grabs my wrist and pulls playfully but I resist, laughing. “I need to finish this first.” I chug more of my liquid courage, my stomach shuddering at the sudden influx of alcohol. For a bartender, I don’t drink very much. “Alright but I expect to see you out there in five minutes!” Jessa says in a joking warning tone before fluttering away like the social butterfly she is. No sooner after I’m alone in the kitchen, I feel hot breath on the back of my neck. “I thought she’d never leave,” says Billy’s voice. I whip around and he’s standing way too close. His eyes are bloodshot and unfocused. He’s definitely on something and not just drunk. I’m frozen in my spot until he starts reaching out to touch me, then I’m moving as fast as my legs can carry me. Jessa, where did you run off to? I think desperately as I move around and in between all the bodies taking up space. I need to find you and get this guy kicked out! When I dare to look back, Billy is hot on my heels and his expression is angrier with each passing second. I turn a corner at the end of the hallway and run smack into someone’s back. That gives him time to catch up with me and grab me by the wrist. “What’s the matter with you?” he growls nastily into my ear. “What’s wrong with you?!” I cry out. “I don’t even know you!”

“Well, why don’t we get to know each other.” His mouth brushes against my neck but I wiggle free and make a beeline toward the stairs. My purse is up in Jessa’s bedroom. If I can get my phone out of my purse, I can call the police on this psycho. The crowd is thick near the bottom of the stairs, which is also by the front door. People are gathered around as they come in and out to smoke and Billy catches up to me again. “I like that you make me chase. The prize will be worth it,” he slurs. I’m shaking like a leaf as my eyes dart around to the people surrounding me. No one is paying attention. I want to scream and yell for help, yell for this predator to get away from me but I can’t find my voice when I open my mouth. Billy’s arms wrap around me and lifts up. I realize he’s trying to carry me and suddenly my fight instincts kick in. “No!” I squeak and brace my arms against his chest, trying to push him away with all my might but it’s no use. “The night is young so hopefully the master bedroom is free,” he says as he half-drags me to the first step on the staircase. I’m full on sobbing now as I grip the banister and try to drag my feet but no one can hear me over the music and no one is looking outside of their own bubble. A sudden flash of movement catches my attention and a single pair of eyes capture mine. Steely grey eyes. Adam is speed walking straight toward me, looking just as big, powerful, and imposing as a force of nature. For a split second, I don’t know whether to feel relieved or more afraid.

CHAPTER 4 ADAM

I’m beyond fucking pissed as I finally reach Mia and the asshole on the first level of the stair. What kind of man tries to force himself on a woman? I place my hand on his shoulder as a warning. “Let her go,” I say in a low voice, my anger simmering just beneath the surface. “Fuckin’ mind your own business man,” he slurs as he tries to shrug me off. Wrong answer. Without another word, I grab the back of his shirt in both fists and pivot my hips, turning him with me. I let go once we’re facing the bottom of the stairs and the momentum sends him tumbling down. Not bothering to look at him, I turn back to Mia. “Are you okay?” She makes a small nod and my anger burns hotter for her. Her big brown eyes are as wide as saucers and she’s curled up against the wall, arms and legs wrapped around her to protect herself. I crouch down next to her, knowing I look even more scary and imposing than the guy I just threw down the stairs. For some reason, every cell in my body wants her to feel safe and protected. “Did he hurt you?” She shakes her head. “I was trying to get my phone.

To call the police.” “I’ll call them,” I offer, pulling my phone from my pocket. “Do you want to go home?” She shakes her head again, still trembling all over but looking calmer. “I’ve been drinking. I can’t drive home.” I open my mouth to say I can take her but decide against it. After what just happened around a bunch of people, she probably doesn’t want to be alone with another strange guy. “I’ll crash here,” she says. “This is my friend’s house.” I nod. That was probably the safest option assuming there were no more predatory assholes at this party. Slowly, she rises to her feet but keeps her back against the wall and her arms wrapped around herself. I want to pull her into me and hold her until the shakes are gone from her body and she’s blissfully relaxed. But I keep my arms at my sides as I stand with her. “I’m going up to my friend’s room and…. just try to calm down I guess,” she says, exhaling a shaky breath. “Good. Take it easy. I’ll call the cops and get this asshole arrested,” I say. “They’ll probably want to talk to you when they get here.” She hesitates before continuing up the stairs. “Okay, it’s the door at the end of the hall. You don’t suppose you could bring me a drink?” I frown. “You probably shouldn’t have any more to drink tonight.” “Just to take the edge off and help me sleep,” she says, rubbing her arms. “I won’t be able to relax at all otherwise.” “Alright,” I concede. “I’ll be right back.” She walks up the rest of the stairs while I get the cops on the phone for the bastard crumpled in a heap by the front door. He’s rolling around a bit, moaning and

drooling so his fall didn’t hurt him too badly. I should have thrown him harder. The cops tell me they’re on their way and I callously step over Asshole’s body to find Conner. He finds Jessa, Mia’s friend who lives at the house and we fill her in on what happened. “Oh my god!” She covers her mouth, horrified. “That poor thing, I never should have left her alone!” Jessa races up the stairs to be with Mia and I finally feel like I can relax a little. The girl is safe. The police are on their way. My work is done. And yet, it doesn’t feel like it is. I pour a light beer for Mia as well as a glass of water, wishing it was me up there comforting her, rubbing her back. Kissing all over her beautiful skin. My cock twitches against my zipper and I almost feel guilty. I shouldn’t get excited over a girl who was just terrorized and likely won’t trust me or any man for a while. A simmer of anger returns to the forefront of my mind. I hate how those types of men give the rest of us a bad name. I can usually have my pick of women and have no problem giving them the orgasm of their lifetime. The one time I want a girl who doesn’t throw herself at me, some prick has to scare the shit out of her. I can only hope that she realizes I had every intention of helping her and none of hurting her. The police arrive within five minutes and spot the asshole right away. I approach and give them my statement before leading the female officer upstairs to the back bedroom. I knock softly at the door and open when I hear Jessa’s voice call, “Come in!” She and Mia are sitting on the bed wrapped in a

blanket. They’ve both been crying. Jessa’s arms are wrapped around Mia, patting her hair soothingly. “May I have a word with Mia?” asks the officer gently. Mia nods as Jessa untangles herself from her and reluctantly slides off the bed. She joins me in the hallway outside the bedroom. “I can’t thank you enough for being there for her,” Jessa sniffles. “I feel like such a terrible friend.” “It wasn’t your fault,” I say, hoping I sound reassuring. “You had no idea.” “I was trying to get her to socialize!” She forces out a laugh as she wipes tears away. “She mentioned seeing you at her work so I was going to make her talk to you.” My heart skips a beat when she says that. Mia mentioned me? She was going to come up and talk to me? Mentally I curse Sheila. If she wasn’t practically humping my leg, I probably would have seen Mia sooner and that bastard would have stayed away. Jessa leans over the railing to look at the partygoers down below. The music has stopped and people are leaving. “Looks like the party’s over,” she says wistfully. “Cops tend to put a damper on these things.” She looks at me. “You’re welcome to crash here if you’d like.” “That’s generous of you,” I say with surprise. She shrugs nonchalantly. “I have blankets, couches and sleeping bags and I don’t want anyone wrapped around a tree trunk.” I haven’t had much to drink but I’m seriously considering her offer. The overwhelming instinct to protect Mia hasn’t left me and didn’t seem to be going anywhere soon. I gesture toward a couch a few feet away from us. It’s in a small reading nook just adjacent to the bedrooms.

“Is that spot taken?” I ask. “It’s all yours,” Jessa says with a smile. Just then, the police officer exits the bedroom and comes toward us. “May I take a statement from you as well, Ms. Philips?” she asks Jessa. “Of course,” she replies and walks with the officer down the stairs. I look toward the bedroom door and see that it’s halfway open with light pouring out. Mia must still be up. I poke my head in to see her still sitting on the bed with a blanket over her shoulders. “Hey,” I say and she looks up. I hold up the beer I poured for her. “I brought you that drink.” “Thanks,” she says in a small voice and pats the bed in front of her, inviting me to sit with her. I accept her invitation and she slowly takes the cup from me. “It’s just Bud Light,” I say. “I promise there’s nothing else in it.” “I’m not worried about that,” she replies with a small smile and chugs the beer down. I want to stop her, to tell her not to drink so fast. But I’m in awe that she seems to trust me already. We’re still little more than strangers to each other. “I hope you feel better. Sleep well,” I say before turning to leave. Even if she trusted me, I barely trusted myself around her. My cock stiffened and pulsed with need just from sitting so close to her on a bed. “Wait,” she pleads and grabs my hand that’s still on the bed. “Stay with me? Just until Jessa gets back.” Her eyes are wide and dilated. The adrenaline is still running through her and she wants to feel safe. I nod and relax back on the bed. Her small hand still

rests on top of mine, her fingers barely extending past my palm. I’m so enthralled by her tiny, delicate hand that I don’t see her leaning in to kiss me until her lips brush mine. I look up in surprise and she smiles shyly. “I got you back for last night.” I’m fully erect now and dying to kiss her so hard that she sinks into the mattress from my bodyweight on top of her. But that would be the absolute wrong thing to do. “We’re even now,” I chuckle but remain still. I will not take advantage of a girl who is not only tipsy but was just traumatized minutes ago. But Mia doesn’t stop. She kisses me again and I can’t stop from molding my mouth to hers. I let out a low moan and swipe my tongue across her lower lip. She tastes so sweet and I’m starving for her. Her mouth opens to me and I get lost in the sensations of her taste. My tongue dances with hers as my hand cradles the back of her neck. Her skin is just as soft and warm as I imagined and I know my body is firing up too. I’m happily drowning in the sensual softness of her lips and the little moans coming from her mouth into mine. Only when her hands slide down my chest and abs to below my waist am I yanked back to reality. “Mia,” I breathe as I halt our kiss. “This isn’t a good idea.” “You saved me,” she whispers back. “And you feel so good.” My dick practically jumps out of my pants but I slowly, painfully pull away from her. It’s the last thing on earth I want to do but I know it’s the right thing. “You’ve been through a lot tonight,” I tell her. “I don’t

want to add to that. Not until your mind is clear, at least.” Her eyes are full of lust when they look at me and I want nothing more than to take back what I just said. “Tomorrow’s another day,” I say as I slowly rise from the bed. “But right now you need to rest and recover.” I make my way to the door despite everything in my body pulling me back to her like an electromagnet. As I look out the door, I see Jessa coming back down the hall. “Goodnight, Mia,” I say before exiting the bedroom and nodding to Jessa as I collapse on the couch just a few feet away. Jessa already stacked pillows and neatly folded blankets so I remove my shirt and jeans and settle in for the night on the worn leather couch. With a sigh, I wonder if Mia will remember everything that transpired tonight. And if she would ever want to finish what we started.

CHAPTER 5 MIA

I wake up with my head pounding and my mouth as dry as a bone. My eyes focus on a ceiling that isn’t mine and for one scary moment, I don’t know where I am. When I sit up, I recognize Jessa’s bedroom and relief washes over me. I’m safe. A glass of water and three ibuprofen tablets sit on a napkin next to me on the night stand. I chug the entire glass of water down and swallow the tablets before collapsing back down on the bed with a groan. Last night is coming to me in bits and flashes. I close my eyes as I try to make sense of them. Jessa threw a divorce party, I was being anti-social against her wishes and doing nothing but serving food. That creepy guy wouldn’t leave me alone. I shudder and pull the covers up to my chin as I recall his face and how he tried to drag me up the stairs. How did I get rid of him? Did I get rid of him? Adam. Oh god, Adam! He threw that asshole down the stairs and called the police for me. Oh yeah. I was still drunk and I kissed him. I groan aloud and cover my face with the covers, despite no one else being in the room to ridicule me. Still,

I want to die from embarrassment. I barely know the guy and I’m not even sure if I’m okay with the kiss he gave me while I was working. You must’ve been okay with it. You did the same thing right back to him. The memories come back clearer as I lie awake and I just want to sink into the floor and disappear. I tried to go further and he stopped me. He must not have wanted me that badly. With a sigh, I kick off the covers and stand reluctantly to my feet. I’m still wearing Jessa’s dress from last night, which is now wrinkled and twisted. I rummage through her drawers to borrow a t shirt and some sweatpants. Thankfully we’re close like sisters and have an understanding that we can always borrow clothes from each other. As quietly as I can, I open the bedroom door and peek my head outside. Some voices are talking downstairs and I can see a neatly folded blanket with pillows on the couch in the reading nook. Several people must have spent the night after the party. I’m just glad one certain guy spent the night in a jail cell. I grab a clean towel from the linen closet and head to the bathroom to take a shower. Not thinking, I don’t bother to knock on the door and walk right into a mostlynaked Adam. He’s topless with a towel wrapped around his waist, standing in front of the sink and shaving his face. “Oh, fuck!” I cry out in surprise but mainly mortified at how I must look to him first thing in the morning. “I’m so sorry!” “Hey, Mia. Feeling better?” he asks without batting an eye at me, carefully dragging a razor over the shaving

cream on his neck. “Uh, yeah, thanks. I totally should have knocked. I’m sorry.” My mouth can’t stop spilling apologies and I feel like a huge idiot just standing there, practically drooling over his muscle-bound torso. He has more tattoos on his back and on his ribcage. In the mirror I can see at least eight distinct abs on his washboard stomach. Barging in on him in the bathroom seems like a plot out of a cheesy porno but here I am in real life. “No worries, sweetheart. Did you need something in here?” His bicep bulges as he drags the razor down his cheek and rinses it off under the tap. His back is just a big beautiful landscape of valleys and hills of muscle. I want to explore that landscape with my hands, digging into the indents with my fingers as I taste his mouth again. “Uh, no. I was just going to shower. I’ll wait until you’re done though.” “You can go ahead if you want. No need to wait on me.” What? WHAT? “What?” I ask. I’m positive I didn’t hear him correctly. “You can go ahead and use the shower now if you want to,” he repeats lightly, taking small, quick strokes with the razor under his nose. For the first time, he makes eye contact with me through the mirror. “I’ll be a gentleman and not disturb you. Unless you want me to.” That last sentence stops me in my tracks. My heart is beating like crazy in my chest and I don’t know what to make of what he’s saying. I’m utterly confused. And turned on like never before. All the wetness has left my mouth and I feel it

collecting between my legs. I want to do this, to see what he does, what I do. I realize my hesitation is only based in shyness, not fear. I’m not scared of Adam taking advantage of me. If he wanted to, he could have done so while I was drunk last night. For some reason, I also trust that he’s a better man than that. Trying to keep my cool, I move in behind him and throw my towel over the rack. When I glance back toward the sink, his attention has returned to his shaving. I push aside the shower curtain and turn the water on. My throat is parched and my blood is pounding in my ears. I still don’t know if I’ll have the courage to take my dress off with him in the room, even if it’s for a split second before I hide behind the curtain. The mirror is fogging up and he wipes at it with a hand towel before continuing to shave. Meanwhile the towel around his waist nearly looks ready to slip off. I stick my hand under the running water from the shower head. It’s warm and ready. Taking a deep breath, I peel off my dress and underwear as quickly as I can before hopping into the shower and pulling the curtain closed. I have no idea if he looked at me or not. I didn’t dare check. The hot water is incredibly relaxing as it pours over my shoulders. I close my eyes and stand under the stream, trying to not think about the insanely hot man on the other side of the curtain. After a few minutes, I hear the faucet turn off. I listen hard for the door opening and closing but the sound never comes. “Hey, Mia?” I nearly jump out of my skin and slip on the wet tile.

Adam’s voice is right on the other side of the shower curtain, sounding like velvety thunder. “You alright in there?” He must have heard my stumble. “Yep, fine!” I could not be any less graceful if I tried. There’s a pause and then he asks, “Would it be alright if I joined you?” Oh my god, is this really happening?! I’m excited, nervous, and horny as hell. Could I possibly be reading into this? What if he has to go to work and is just in a hurry? He doesn’t sound hurried though. What does he actually want? A small voice reminds me that it doesn’t matter what he wants. He’s asking permission. I’m the one in control. He won’t do anything I’m not comfortable with. At this point though, I don’t think there’s any going back. He wanted my mind to be clear and it is now. I take a deep breath and open my mouth to respond. “Yes.”

CHAPTER 6 ADAM

I smile to myself as I drop the towel from around my waist and push the shower curtain aside. Mia’s naked, dripping wet body is a lovely sight to behold even if she’s shy, covering herself and turning to the side. She makes a big point of not looking at me, trying to be casual and nonchalant about two nearly-strangers naked in the shower together. “Don’t hog all the water now, sweetheart,” I rib at her. “Sorry,” she mutters and moves out from under the stream. “No need to be sorry,” I tell her. “I’m certainly not.” I move underneath the showerhead, tantalizing close to her bare, wet skin. She’s a good foot shorter than me so I get a clear view of her shoulders, neck and chest, the water making small rivulets over her skin that I want to trace with my tongue. “Hand me the body wash, will you?” I ask, reaching to the small shelf just outside with clean washcloths and I grab two. She holds out the bottle to me while only glancing out of the corner of her eye, still covering her breasts with her other arm. I wet the washcloths and squirt a dollop of soap onto each one, handing her one of them. “Thanks,” she mutters, her eyes darting up to me nervously.

“No problem,” I say with a smile and step toward the back of the shower to soap myself up and give her a few feet of space. She seems to relax while I’m a bit further away even though I have a nice, full view of her. My dick steadily rises as I watch her run the washcloth across her chest and belly, up and down her arms and legs, and around her neck. She remains facing away from me, still hiding her chest but her ass is a round, perfect peach. My tongue is thick and my voice is husky when I ask, “Would you like me to scrub your back?” She hesitates, her hand pausing in midair with the washcloth as I see a red flush creep up her neck and not from the hot water. “Sure,” she says. I step closer behind her, my throbbing cock just inches away from that sweet round ass. Gently I move her hair to the front of her shoulder and move my washcloth across the skin of her neck and upper back. She lets out the softest sound, like a tiny sigh of contentment as I press on her back in circling motions and move slowly lower. “Feels good?” I ask, my voice low and lusty. Fuck, I wish I could see her facial expression. “Mm-hm,” she replies. “Like a professional massage.” “I’m told it’s one of my talents.” I’m gently scrubbing toward her lower back now. The soap suds collect in the sweet, delicate curve just above her perfect perky ass. I just want to grab those ass cheeks and pull them back toward my cock but I keep my hands a respectful distance away. The last thing I want to do is make her feel assaulted again. She looks over her shoulder at me as I finish. “Want me to get yours?”

I grin impishly as I turn around to face the opposite wall. “Thought you’d never ask, sweetheart.” My raging hard-on calms down a little with nothing but tiled wall in my view, but it jumps back up again the moment I feel Mia’s hands gently washing my back. She starts up at my neck like I did to her, rubbing in slow methodical circles. I close my eyes to drink in the sensation of her touch. She’s gentle, hesitant at first but slowly growing firmer and more self-assured. She moves slowly. I know she’s reading my tattoos and feeling every inch of broad muscle across my back. I wonder if she’s checking out my ass as much as I checked out hers. Glad I did deadlifts yesterday. I turn around the moment she stops, and I find myself looking directly into those big, brown eyes of hers. She’s no longer shy, no longer covering herself up before me. Her eyes are just as wide and full of lust just as much as mine are. I cup her chin with my hand before I lean down. As badly as I want to claim her, make her mine, I need to know she wants this too. My kiss is firm against her pillowy, wet lips. She opens her mouth to me and I swipe my tongue inside to test the waters, to see if she wants anything else inside her. Her own tongue flicks against mine, teasing me, beckoning me in for more. I feel her hands creep up the ridges of my abdomen and around to my sides, exploring me as she draws me in closer. The distance shrinks down to nothing between us as our hungry, devouring kisses consume us. My cock, hard as a steel rod, is sandwiched between us, throbbing against the soft skin of her belly. I cup the back of her head with my hands as I push her against the slippery

shower wall. If this shower was hot before, it’s now a burning inferno as I receive Mia’s eager little moans into my ear as my mouth travels down her neck, my hands palming her perfect tits before moving downward. “Holy fuck, Mia,” I growl. There’s not a single inch of this entire shower that’s as wet and slippery as she is. Her gasp is so fucking sexy as I stroke her glistening, swollen lips, teasing her before I slide a finger into her tight wetness. I’m so thirsty. I need to taste her. I drag my tongue from her neck across her chest, tasting every inch of her hot skin as I curl my fingers inside her. She squirms, writhes, and moans as I grind my palm against her clit, but she’s still just long enough for me to catch her nipple in my mouth. I flick my tongue against that hard little peak as if it were clit, giving her a preview of what’s to come. Her pussy clenches even tighter around my fingers as my mouth reluctantly lets her nipple go, moving on to her other one. Her belly rises and falls with her ragged breathing as I kiss over it slowly, taking my time to kiss every freckle and feel the shape of her cute little bellybutton. “Adam, you don’t have to,” she gasps, barely above a whisper when my mouth falls to her inner thighs. “I want to,” I tell her, looking up at her gorgeous, lustfilled face. “I want to feel your orgasm in my mouth and taste all the sweetness from it on my tongue.” I could only guess she’d been with losers who refused to go down on women. Didn’t matter. She was mine now. Her surprised expression is the last thing I see before I remove my fingers and drag my tongue along her slit.

Just as I expect, her body jerks against my face and I smile. Her body wants it, even if she thinks she doesn’t. I take my time lapping up her wetness but it just keeps coming. She’s never felt anything this good and I’m about to show her just how good it can be. My fingers penetrate her again and she’s even tighter that before. Her whole body is tight, tense and ready to explode. And I’m ready to take her there. I seal my lips over her swollen clit and flick my tongue over it mercilessly. She’s thrashing and it’s all I can do just to keep my mouth attached to her. Her hands are in my hair and she’s pulling but it doesn’t hurt. It makes me want to devour her even more. “Adam,” she pants. “I’m gonna-,” She comes so hard, her pussy practically sucks the rest of my hand inside with how hard it tightened around my fingers. I keep stroking inside her, beckoning more shockwaves of pleasure to roll over her body. I don’t stop until she slides down the shower wall on trembling legs, sitting on the floor next to me as she catches her breath. We barely have time to share a smile and a quick kiss before someone is pounding at the bathroom door. “Hurry up in there, will you! I gotta go!”

CHAPTER 7 MIA Adam and I look at each other sheepishly in reaction to the pounding at the door, but I’m not embarrassed anymore. I’m too busy feeling so damn good after what he just did to me, how he wracked my body with pleasure so easily. “I guess that’s our cue to leave,” he says as he gently pulls me to my feet and delivers another kiss to my mouth. “Do you want to continue… somewhere else?” I ask. His mouth turns up in a coy smirk but he also looks surprised. “Like where?” “Have you heard of these things called bedrooms?” He laughs. “Your friend wouldn’t mind us doing that in her house?” “Are you kidding? She’s been after me to get laid for a year.” I bite my lip after realizing what I said, not intending to give away my long dry spell. But Adam just smiles as he shuts off the water. “I’m game if you are, sweetheart.” He grabs two towels and hands one to me. We dry off in record speed at the increasing urgency of whoever’s knocking at the door. After another quick kiss that steals my breath away, Adam throws open the bathroom door and struts out proudly.

“All yours, man.” I clutch my towel around my torso, refusing to make eye contact with the stunned person standing at the door as I follow Adam down the hall to Jessa’s bedroom. After closing the door softly behind me, I take a moment to just drink him in. The towel around his narrow hips is already threatening to fall and the outline of his thick, rigid cock leaves no mystery. There’s not a single tanline on his taut, inked skin, but there are scars. Small marks and imperfections decorate his body like badges of honor. They don’t take anything away from how insanely hot he is. Rather, they add to it. They make him so much more real and interesting. His hands are suddenly on my bare, cold shoulders and I’m looking up into his handsome chiseled face and stormy gray eyes. “You’re so fucking beautiful, Mia,” he murmurs before his mouth finds mine. He doesn’t move to take my towel away but pulls me closer, deepening the kiss that is already swallowing me whole. In the shower he was slow and gentle, testing my boundaries, giving me every opportunity to say no if I didn’t want to. But now his kisses are hungry and demanding. He knows how badly I want him, how much I’m aching to have that thickness stretching and filling inside me. He presses me into the door and our towels fall just from the friction we create. We both moan in unison at the sweet feeling of nothing between us, skin to skin. Adam breaks a kiss to squat down for a second and suddenly, I’m lifted into the air. “Wrap your legs around me,” he commands against my lips. I obey, feeling the swollen tip of his cock brush

against my sensitive folds and shiver with need. He walks us backward slowly toward the bed I was just sleeping in, where I kissed him last night to make us even. “Think your friend has condoms somewhere?” he asks with a smirk when we sit on the edge. “I have some in my pants but my clothes are out by the couch.” “Um, in the nightstand drawer, maybe,” I say, grateful one of us is still thinking with their brain. We scoot further up the bed to check Jessa’s drawers. After a bit of awkward rummaging, I find her condom stash and hope I remind myself to replace however many we use. Adam is reclined with his hands behind his head, looking like a Calvin Klein model, only without the underwear. His delicious cock is pointing straight up with a slight curve toward his head. My mouth waters and I have an overwhelming urge to taste it before I roll the condom on. He exhales deeply as I run my hands across his powerful thigh muscles, dragging my nails over his coarse leg hair up to that deep V shape in his hips. I plant kisses on his hipbones and rigid lower stomach as my hands grip the base of his cock and cup his heavy balls. “You’re a naughty little kitten, aren’t you,” he moans softly as he moves my hair out of the way. If only he knew I’m spending so much time teasing down here because I’m too shy to look him in the eyes. What makes him so goddamn sexy also makes him intimidating as hell. I want him so bad but I feel like a clumsy virgin trying to impress a pornstar. I keep my eyes trained down as I wrap my lips around his thick, swollen head, slowly coating his shaft with the

wetness of my tongue. “Ohhh, fuck,” he moans and tightens his grip on my hair. I figure I must be doing something right so I keep bobbing my head lower, taking more of him into my mouth but I’m not even halfway down his shaft. “Your mouth feels amazing, sweetheart.” His voice is getting me even hotter and I know I’m still dripping wet for him. I was the moment he stepped into the shower with me. He suddenly tugs up on my hair until my lips are just barely around his head again. For a moment I wonder if he’s close to coming and wants me to stop. “Look at me, sweetheart,” he commands, his voice sharp and dominant. It’s so hot. I want to obey but I feel so shy. I try to play it off as I smile and hide my face behind my other hand. But he’s having none of it. He pulls my hair back until my neck is arched and I’m forced to look him in the eyes. My scalp is tingling with desire and my clit pulses with heat against the mattress. “Look at me when you suck my cock,” he commands again and I practically melt like putty in his hands. How can words and his steely voice turn me on so damn much? He releases my hair but keeps his hand gently caressing my face. I keep my eyes locked on his as I lower my mouth over him again, fighting all my shyness and insecurity to obey him. “That’s my girl,” he praises softly. “Yes, sweetheart, that’s so fucking good.” My inner thighs are slick as the hungry wetness inside me overflows. My head is spinning, my body begging to please as he alternates between commanding me harshly and gently stroking my face.

“Your mouth is so good but damn I need that pussy of yours,” he says, cupping my face gently to remove my lips from his cock. I sit up to rip open the condom wrapper with trembling fingers. I can’t believe this is really happening. I’m about to… what’s even the word for it? Fuck? Bone? Make love? What’s the term for having sex with someone you barely know but will ruin you for all other men? “Look at me, Mia,” he commands. My eyes meet his as I unroll the condom down his length. It’s quite snug and may even be too small for him but I unroll it completely and stroke his thick shaft a few times to ensure it’s secure. His eyes have me captured and he smiles. “That’s a good girl. Come here.” I scoot up his body to straddle his hips and he pulls me down to him to capture my mouth in another possessive kiss. “Rub your pussy on me,” he orders. Bracing my hands on his sculpted pecs, I move my hips back and forth, gliding my wetness along the length of his shaft. “Ohh, fuck,” he groans and stops my hips almost as soon as I begin. “You feel too fucking good.” He positions his head at my entrance and I can feel it pulse through the condom. My vulva pulses in response eagerly, dying to feel that hardness run through me. “Ride me, beautiful,” Adam tells me gruffly. “Use my cock for your pleasure.” I lower myself slowly, the first few inches already pressing on all sides within me. The intensity and stretching just grows until he’s completely sheathed inside me. “Oh my God, you’re so tight,” he tells me breathily,

gripping firmly onto my hips to guide me. I’m usually self-conscious when on top but the way he looks at me, filled with lust and yearning, plus how insanely good he feels overwhelmed everything else I feel. I don’t have to move much to feel how he stretches and fills me. His hands travel up the sides of my waist to my breasts as I get into a comfortable rhythm riding him. He pinches and teases at my nipples, turning up the sensitivity throughout my whole body. When his hands drift down between us to rub at my clit, I know it won’t be long. “Adam,” I pant as I bounce with increasing speed on his cock, wanting to feel more of him deeper and harder. He stretches me to my limits and I still can’t get enough. “Yes, baby,” he urges, rolling his fingers across my clit. “Let me feel you come.” The orgasm explodes through me even more intensely than the one in the shower. Pleasure zips throughout my body and all my strength leaves my limbs. I think I pass out for a second because the next thing I know, I’m lying on Adam’s chest. His arms are wrapped around me as he continues thrusting upward into me. I barely have time to recover from my orgasm before I feel another one building. My heart is racing and I’m drenched in sweat as I try to catch my breath but it’s escaping me as the pressure builds. “Adam,” I gasp clutching him tightly, desperately for a sense of solid ground. I don’t know which way is down or up. I sense and perceive nothing but pure pleasure throughout my whole body. “Mia,” he breathes into my neck and gives sharp, biting kisses to my earlobe and jaw without missing a beat in his thrusts.

“I’m gonna come again,” I rasp. “You’re about to get me there, baby.” His voice rumbles like thunder and I swear that’s what pushes me over the edge. My pussy grips him in my climax so tightly that with a groan and a final deep thrust, he unleashes come into the condom. We hold onto each other tightly as we ride the waves of delicious pleasure before slowly settling back down to earth.

CHAPTER 8 ADAM

Damn. That’s all I can think as my heart rate and breathing slow down with Mia still wrapped in my arms. I loosen my hold on her and we untangle our limbs gently but her head remains on my chest and I can’t stop stroking my fingers through her hair. “You are somethin’ else, sweetheart,” I say lazily, letting my Tennessee drawl come out but I don’t care. “So are you,” she replies softly, tracing her fingers along the ink on my chest. “You saved my ass last night and now this? I can’t believe this is real.” “I couldn’t believe you were real when I first saw you,” I murmur against her forehead. “That’s why I had to steal a kiss. To make sure.” “What if I turned into a frog?” she lifts her head to look at me with a naughty, adorable smile. “You’d make a pretty cute frog. No regrets.” I chuckle and kiss her forehead. We lay in cozy contentment for a little while longer, caressing each other tenderly like we hadn’t just met two days before. Like we had some amount of history leading up to this, at least a few dates or something. I don’t know why laying here with her feels so comfortable and right but it does. I don’t want to move and clearly neither does she. But

it is her friend’s house and bed so we might be overstaying our welcome. “Hey,” I nudge her gently. “I don’t know about you but I’m starving. Tell me there’s an awesome breakfast place nearby.” “There is, actually,” she says after a moment of thought. “Linda’s Diner on Main Street. They have killer omelets.” “Sounds great.” Slowly I sit up and swing my legs over to the side of the bed. “Do you want to go home and change into fresh clothes first?” She remains on the bed and stares at me with an odd expression. “You want to get breakfast with me?” I can’t help but laugh. “‘Course I do, sweetheart. Least I can do is buy a lady breakfast after she rides me like that.” She blushes as she sits up in the bed and it’s all I can do to not push her back down and devour that sweet pussy again. “I just figured this was all you wanted,” she mumbles. Now that’s different. Women are usually more interested in my wining and dining than the sex. Even if they say they expect only my cock, they’re disappointed if they’re not treated like a girlfriend the next day. But something about Mia makes me want to spend my limited time here with her, whether our clothes were on or off. “Hey, sweetheart,” I lean over and give her a kiss. “I’ll be honest, I’m only in town for a couple weeks. I’m not lookin’ to propose or anything but I think we could get along well and have a nice time together. It’s up to you, though.” She seems hesitant. Her eyes flicker down toward the

crumpled sheets. “Are you married? Or do you have a girlfriend back home?” I chuckle. “A little late to ask those questions, isn’t it?” She shrugs in response but says nothing. I tilt her chin up until she’s looking directly at me with those big doe eyes again. “I’m not married,” I tell her. “Nor am I attached to anyone.” Her sweet lips turn up in the hint of a smile. “I believe you.” “Good.” I kiss her smile. “Breakfast, then?” *** I throw on last night’s clothes since I put them on right before the party and Mia borrows jeans and a T-shirt from Jessa. “I really owe her after this,” she giggles as we get into my truck. “First clothes, then the bed, then condoms.” “So it’s true women really do share everything,” I muse as we we head off to the diner. “Well, not everything,” she purrs as her hand slides into my lap. My cock jumps at attention but I just lace my fingers through hers and smile. “I ain’t sharing you either, sweetheart. You’re all mine.” She gives me directions to the diner and we’re there in under five minutes. It’s packed to the brim, clearly a popular place, but we’re able to squeeze in to a small table next to the kitchen. “I’ll have the vegetarian omelet with no cheese please, and with a fruit and yoghurt on the side,” Mia says to the

waitress. I order eggs benedict with a side of breakfast sausage and our waitress is whisked away to leave us alone again. “Not a big meat eater?” I ask with a sip of coffee. “I’m not a meat eater at all,” she corrected, flashing me a daring look. “I haven’t eaten the flesh of an animal in five years.” “And what’s the reason for that?” I ask, genuinely curious. I’ve been stationed all over the world to the point where nothing shocks me anymore. If I were to bring Mia back home to Tennessee however, my family members would react the same as if she said, “praise Satan”. “I don’t want to support the meat industry’s inhumane practices in any way.” She takes a tentative sip of her own coffee. “I won’t get all preachy. I respect other people’s choices but this is one I made for myself.” I nodded. “That’s fair. If I may ask though,” I said, leaning forward. “What if the meat industry everywhere raised and killed its animals humanely?” “I probably still wouldn’t eat it. I’ve done this for so long now. My body just feels better without consuming other animals.” “Are you certain you’re getting enough protein in your diet?” I ask. “Yes, I am.” Her eyes flash at me, not backing down from my challenge. “There are lots of plant-based proteins. And I do eat eggs as well.” I lean back grinning and fold my hands behind my head. “Seems like you know your stuff, girl.” I’m genuinely impressed she didn’t crumble under my questions. So many of these people clinging to fad diets don’t know the first thing about their food sources if you try to dig for facts even a little.

Her eyes travel along my biceps and I know from the look on her face she wants to be wrapped in them again. If I wasn’t starving, I’d drag us out of here and back to my hotel for a second round. Regardless I’m pretty sure a second round will happen today. “I really enjoy expanding people’s minds about food,” she continues. “My ultimate goal is to become a vegetarian chef.” My eyebrows shoot up. “Really?” “Yeah,” she smiles and glances down shyly. I have a feeling she hasn’t told many people about this and it tugs at my heart a little. “If you ate any of the food at the party, that was all me.” “Are you serious? I must have eaten a whole tray of those spring rolls!” “Yeah, those are a crowd favorite,” she laughs. “Well damn, sweetheart. Now that I know you got talents in the kitchen too, I might have to propose after all.” I didn’t even want to hide the fact that I was smitten with her. It happened so rarely I wanted to relish in it. The blush creeping into her cheeks and her shy smile certainly didn’t detract from her. “So what are you all about?” she asks. “I’m a hands-on guy, I guess,” I say with a smirk. “I joined the service as a jet mechanic. I’ve always loved tinkering, fixing and building things.” “What brought you to the base here?” “Training for a promotion.” Our food arrived and we both lean back to allow the waitress to put our plates down. My stomach growls and I’m pretty sure I hear hers too. Too little food, too much alcohol last night.

“I’m about to become a supervisor for my squadron,” I explain as I cut into my eggs. “So it’ll be more money but not nearly as fun. I get to yell at kids, though.” “Where will you go next?” she asks while pushing around her omelette on her plate. “Wherever they send me.” I bite a sausage link and for just a moment, feel guilty about eating meat in front of her. “Have you ever…” she trails off and bites her lip hesitantly. “Spit it out, darlin’. I’m an open book.” She lowers her voice to a whisper. “You know, hurt anyone?” I smile reassuringly at her. “You shouldn’t believe all the movies you watch, sweetheart. I’ve been in for ten years and no, I’ve never fired a gun, missile, or grenade at anyone. But I know people who have and it fucks them up. PTSD is no joke.” Her next question is bolder. “Have you… lost anyone?” This time I put my fork down and slowly finish chewing my food. “Yes, I have,” I answer quietly. “A few good friends in Afghanistan.” “I’m sorry.” “Not your fault, sweetheart.” We continue eating in a few minutes of silence but her eyes are sharp and thoughtful. I see another question brewing behind them. “What’s on your mind, sweetheart?” She pauses, pursing her lips delicately as she finds the words. “I just wonder how you can continue to serve in the military while knowing that. If your friends hadn’t joined,

they’d most likely still be alive.” “You’re not wrong on that,” I tell her. “But if it hadn’t been them, it would have been some other kids. Someone else’s sons, husbands, and fathers.” “I mean I know I sound like a dumb, pacifist hippie, and I kind of am. But it all seems so… senseless.” “Again, you’re not wrong,” I say, reaching across the small table to touch her hand. “And you’re not dumb. I respect and admire your worldview, Mia.” I smile at her, albeit a bit sadly as I remember Chase and Dan’s goofy faces pictured in my mind like photographs. “But the world out there isn’t as sweet as you are.”

CHAPTER 9 MIA

Why can’t I stop smiling? I have to work tonight so Adam drops me off at home after breakfast, but not before we make out for ages like teenagers in his truck in front of my apartment. “See you soon, sweetheart,” he says after we exchange numbers and a final kiss. I walk inside practically floating on air, giddy and happier than I’ve felt in years. I’m definitely carrying the “walk of shame” aura so thankfully my roommates aren’t home to ask questions. We’ve been apart for five minutes and I already miss him. I flop back on my bed to stare at the ceiling, picturing his handsome, smiling face looking back at me. I pull out my phone and wonder how soon would it be okay to text him. We didn’t make any solid plans to see each other again after breakfast, but he wouldn’t give me his number and say “see you soon” if he didn’t want to see me again, right? And would we be going out on dates or just booty calls? “Chill the fuck out,” I say aloud to myself. I’m feeling way too infatuated after just meeting and hooking up with him. Logically I know I shouldn’t get attached. He’s leaving in two weeks and we’re most likely fundamentally incompatible. Me, a hippie vegetarian girl with a military man from

the South. No freaking way. But I couldn’t deny how good he made me feel, and not just physically. He was respectful enough to not take advantage of me while I was drunk and vulnerable, yet confident enough to show his interest while I was sober. Not to mention he was a gentleman to take me out afterward and respected my worldview. My vegetarianism was usually a sticking point for guys I dated. It was the reason so many didn’t make it past a first date. I sigh and sit up from my bed, trying to focus on anything but how sexy and charming Adam is. Eventually I end up cleaning my room and running errands before going into work. Anything to keep me busy. Saturday nights at the bar always keep me on my toes and I’m especially grateful for the busy crowd tonight. I don’t even think of Adam’s face until out of nowhere I see it grinning at me. He’s sitting in the same barstool as when he first came in, giving me a sexy look that says I’m the only one in this room who’s seen you naked. I stop in my tracks when I see him, completely forgetting about the drink order I just received. “Hey, stranger. What are you doing here?” I ask. I want to lean across the bar and kiss him. It’s only been a few hours but I already miss the feeling of his mouth on mine. “Felt like a drink. Thought I’d stop by to see the prettiest bartender in town.” His eyes never leave me and I feel my underwear pooling with hot wetness for him already. “Oh, so you’ve seen all the bartenders here?” “I don’t need to.” His gaze is positively smoldering, sending heat over my skin and filling me up from the inside.

Fuck, why did he have to come here where I couldn’t give him my undivided attention? After a moment, his delicious mouth breaks into a smile and his eyes gleam with amusement. “I know you’re busy, sweetheart. I’m here whenever you’re ready for me.” My head jerks to the end of the bar, remembering my waiter standing impatiently for the drink order and I scurry back into action. It’s another ten minutes of mixing, refilling, and cashiering before I can finally stop and talk to him. “Sorry to keep you waiting,” I tell him. “Don’t be. I like watching you hustle.” I can’t help but smile. The man knows how to flatter a lady. “Having Bombay Sapphire again tonight?” He leans forward on his elbows, making the taut muscles in his shoulders flex as he studies the liquor selection behind me. “You know, I’m in a sake mood today,” he says. “Give me the chilled bottle down there.” “Quite a deviation from last time,” I remark. “I’m an adventurer, what can I say,” he replies. I bring out the elegant, frosted glass bottle from the mini-fridge and quickly rinse off the small sake cup that probably hasn’t been used in months. When I set them in front of Adam, he brings his palms together in front of his chest and bows his head. “Domo arigatou gozaimasu,” he says. “I’m impressed,” I say with a light laugh. “You’ve been to Japan?” “I was stationed there just after tech school, for an entirely short two years.” He pours carefully from the bottle. “I was too young to appreciate Okinawa, and now it’s the only place I wish I could get stationed again.”

He holds the small glass up but pauses before drinking. “Have one with me.” “I can’t drink on the clock,” I tell him apologetically. His eyes burn into mine. “It wasn’t a request.” He doesn’t need to tell me. It was a command. Like the ones he gave me this morning while he was inside me and all over me. My whole body grows ten degrees hotter and I feel devastatingly empty inside. He doesn’t only have power over me in the bedroom and he knows it. I rummage for a second cup and quickly rinse it off, my eyes darting around the bar for my boss or anyone who will tell on me. Adam’s fingers brush against mine as he takes the cup from me and carefully pours into it. With a smile, he touches his drink to mine. “Kampai,” he says. I nod and shoot the drink back in a hurry before anyone sees. He knows I’m breaking the rules and smiles wickedly, like we just shared a dirty little secret. “When are you off work?” he asks. I glance at the clock. “In two more hours. Why?” The wickedness spreads across his face and his whole demeanor. He leans forward like I’m the only person that exists, or matters. “I want you to spend the night with me.” He doesn’t have to say it. I know it’s not a request. My whole vulva pulses and my nipples ache to feel his hands on them again. I already know I can’t refuse. “Are you staying on base?” I ask. He shakes his head. “I have a hotel room downtown. They put me up there since my stay is temporary.” Some distant voice in my head tries to remind me not

to get attached. He’ll be gone from my life before I realize it. But that time isn’t now. And right now I want him more badly than anything else. “Okay,” I say, knowing I’m blushing hotly. “You sticking around until I’m off?” “Absolutely, sweetheart.” Despite being busy, It feels like ten hours as I wait painfully for the clock to tick down. Talking to Adam helps but I hate every minute I have to be pulled away from him. Finally, the last customer leaves and I hurry to close up the bar as fast as I can. “Can I help?” Adam asks from his bar seat. “Absolutely not,” I say as I quickly sweep a broom under his seat. Like a snake, his arm wraps around my waist and pulls me against him. His touch fires off all my nerve endings and I just want more. More of everything that is him. “Can I distract?” “You’ve been doing that since you walked in.” I wriggle out of his grasp as he chuckles and hurry even faster to finish. When I’m finally locking up, he wastes no time. The moment I’m turning away from the front door, his arms are around me and his mouth is crashing into mine. “I’ve been dying to taste you again,” he breathes against my ear. “Same here,” I blurt out and he’s carrying me to his truck before I can wonder if that was a stupid thing to say. We crash through the door of his hotel room so wrapped up in each other that I barely get a look at it

before he lifts me and tosses me on the bed. It’s bigger than an average hotel room, like an extended stay suite. I see a kitchenette and a small living room in the corner before the weight of him is on top of me, pressing into the soft mattress. We take our time removing our clothes, really exploring each new area of skin that becomes bare. He’s even more attentive and passionate than this morning. Maybe it’s because the lights are low and we’re not hooking up after a party anymore, but this time feels more intimate. The connection between us has the force of a magnet and we can’t stop kissing. We didn’t kiss like this in the morning. Why does this feel so different, so loving? His lips are kissing over every inch of me, not just my erogenous zones, practically worshipping my body. “You’re so gorgeous I can’t fucking stand it,” he whispers as his lips trail across my ribs to plant a kiss next to my bellybutton. “Why me?” I ask into the vast, open space of the room. “Why did you even kiss me that first time?” I don’t know why the questions are coming out now. For some reason, I want to know what he wants. What he saw in me. His mouth travels back up slowly, his lips trailing a long caress between my breasts, across my collarbone, up my neck and along my jaw back to my mouth. “Because there’s no one else like you.” I gasp as hardness presses into the soft heat between my legs. He circles his hips and presses his length over my clit. I feel like a dam about to burst. Our final layers of clothes come off and I don’t need any foreplay, no teasing. I just need him. He moans into my mouth as he sinks into me, as we

become one. Our kisses and exploring hands never stop as we move together. He rocks his hips against me, in no rush to get to any destination. Just enjoying the journey. This is what making love feels like. The thought stuck in my head and refused to leave. It was true. If this closeness and warmth and pure, sweet deliciousness wasn’t lovemaking, I didn’t know what was.

CHAPTER 10 ADAM

All my time spent with Mia passes by in a flash but it feels like we’ve known each other forever. Every day with my sweetheart is filled with passionate fucking, delightful conversation, and some of the best damn cooking I’ve ever tasted in my life. I’m not even exaggerating or qualifying it as vegetarian cooking. Everything she makes for me is some of the best damn food I’ve tasted, period. It blows my mind how creative and knowledgeable she is about flavors and nutrition. In the week I’ve known her, I’ve incorporated tons more veggie dishes into my diet and I’m already noticing results. For one, my energy levels are through the roof. I’m wide awake at 0400 on the dot for work and ready to yell my lungs out at my squadron rookies. Even after eating my weight in Mia’s eggplant parmesan, I never feel fatigued after a full meal. In the bedroom, I’ve always had good stamina but after eating her cooking I’m lasting even longer. If Mia didn’t get so incredibly wet, I’d worry for her pussy with how much pounding it gets. Fortunately she’s almost as insatiable as me. I even saw results in the gym after a few days. I’ve always watched my diet closely and had lean, visible muscle since joining the Air Force but I look even more

jacked since being with Mia. Maybe it’s coincidental but the point is, she’s been nothing but a positive addition to my life and every day with her ends too soon. I always have to pause in the morning before leaving for work to look at my sweetheart lying beautifully in my bed. Just the shape of her softly closed eyes, nose and lips and the way the hair falls over her face tugs at my heart. I’m not a fool. I know I’m falling for her. And with each passing day I’m one step closer to being ripped away from her and I don’t know how I’ll be able to handle it when the time comes. She’s so unique and honest. I’ve been around the block a little but never felt a connection like the one I have with her. It almost makes me wish we never met. If we never did, there would be no pain to face once I got my orders. Even if she wanted to, she couldn’t move and live with me unless we were married. Depending on the deployments, some married couples still face being apart for a year or longer. I couldn’t force that kind of life on her or me. That was the main reason why I stayed single. But the need to keep her was becoming as strong as the need to breathe. So when my captain calls me into his office, I feel the stone settle into my stomach as I march my ass over there. This is the news I’ve been waiting years and worked my ass off for. And in the last week, the news I’ve also come to dread. My heart beat like a drum against my ribs as my stomach does cartwheels but I keep my exterior rock solid as I had been trained. I knock solidly three times at the office door. “Come in!” Captain Blythe calls. I obey, closing the door behind me and bringing my

right hand stiffly to my eyebrow ridge in salute. “At ease, Sergeant Gunn. Have a seat.” “Thank you, sir.” I remove my hat and sit down in the solid wooden chair that matches his desk. The captain is relaxed on the other side of his desk, a smile playing on his lips. He’s watched my progress since I was a cadet. He’s proud of me and has no idea how torn I really am about this career move. “Congratulations, Sergeant. You’ve passed all your qualifications with flying colors. I’m pleased to inform you of your new job title— Supervising Aircraft Mechanical Engineer.” “Thank you, Captain.” I fight back the desire to ask where my assignment will be. I know he’ll tell me in his own time but all I want to know is how many miles I’ll be away from my sweetheart. “You know, I still remember the day you graduated from Basic. I gave the commencement speech at your ceremony and saw you out of the corner of my eye, goofing off while in formation and I made you do pushups until you collapsed. I was certain you’d drop out within your first month at tech school. But you proved everyone wrong, Gunn!” I allow a smirk on my lips and a thoughtful nod at the memory, but I wish he would just get on with it. “In any case, I’m glad you never dropped out. You’ve proven yourself to be an exceptional airman, Gunn. I’m happy to tell you that your new assignment is in sunny California. Your new home is Turner Air Force Base, son!” “Thank you very much, sir.” I stand and accept his firm handshake before saluting again, waiting to take my leave.

“You’ll find your paperwork and all the details with the transfer office,” he says, returning to his seat. “You are dismissed, Sergeant.” “Thank you again, Captain.” Only when I leave his office and shut the door behind me do I let my posture slump like the weight of the world is on my shoulders. It’s a nightmare and a dream come true all at the same time. I still have to get through the work day and tell my sweetheart the news. The minutes crawl by and I’m finally able to text her during a lull. “Hey beautiful. You off tonight?” “Sure am, handsome! And the roommate is gone! ;)” I bite my lip, knowing my days of feeling her sweet, delicious pussy quivering around my cock are numbered. Fuck, this is going to be hard. “Got my new assignment,” I replied. “I’ll head over right after work.” “Okay.” Her final message to me lacks her initial enthusiasm and I know she’s dreading to hear the words just as I am about saying them.

*** When Mia opens her front door, a smile is shining on her gorgeous face despite the sadness in her eyes. “Congratulations on your promotion, Sergeant,” she says, wrapping her arms around my neck. “Thank you, sweetheart,” I murmur, pulling her in close and lowering a kiss down to the mouth I’ve been dying to taste all day, and will never taste again soon. Our hello kisses are usually brief but now that our

limited time together is real, we stand in the doorway and savor each other for several minutes. Our lips do the talking, but not with words. She holds a tight grip on the back of my collar and I flatten my palms across the small of her back. Neither of us wants to let go. When we finally come up for air, she pulls back just slightly to look at me. “So where are they shipping you off to?” she asks, trying to keep her voice casual. “California,” I answer as we move inside the house. “Or in other words, twelve-hundred goddamn miles away from you.” “When?” “Friday. At the end of this week.” Mia bites her lip and shifts her eyes away from me. “Well, it’s not like we didn’t know this day was coming.” “I know.” I brush a strand of hair out of her face and tuck it behind her ear. “But I had no idea you would rock my world so goddamn much.” She let out a short laugh that sounds forced and fake. “You’ll find some hot beach model in California and forget all about me once you’re there.” “Fuck no,” I bark. Her eyes widen as I quickly pin her down on the couch. My hands hold down her arms above her head as I push the rest of her body down into the cushions with my own body. From the warmth of her skin and softness of her curves, my cock throbs and stiffens against my zipper. No other woman has ever got me going like this. “Fuck that noise,” I growl, inches away from her lips. Her round, gorgeous tits are rising and falling with her breath and her eyes are as wide as saucers.

“I’m never going to forget you,” I tell her solemnly. “You’re unlike anyone I’ve ever met, Mia.” I bring my lips to her neck and gently suck while simultaneously pressing my rock-hard bulge against her clit. She cries out a sexy high-pitched moan as her hips buck against me, greedy for more pleasure. As I skim my fingers across her belly underneath her shirt, I whisper in her ear, “And I’m making damn sure you never forget me.”

CHAPTER 11 MIA

It takes all my strength to not cry the last time I see him. He ships out first thing in the morning on Friday and I can’t go on base to see him off. So he spends the night with me and leaves at 3 am to pack his hotel room and check out. We lay in bed but neither of us sleep that final night. Between having the most intimate, passionate sex of my life and talking about everything and nothing, I try to ignore the part of my brain that insists I’m in love with this man. I relish in our final moments. Looking into his eyes with every kiss, watching in awe as his chiseled ab muscles flex as he thrusts and moves, touching every inch of him that I can so that I’ll remember his body like a photograph in my mind. I try to enjoy it and not fall apart at the fact that I’ll never feel this good, this fulfilled, ever again. He’s trying to pretend it’s like any other night together too. We’ve developed a comforting routine like a couple that’s been together a long time, rather than just hooking up for a week. When his alarm rings at 3:00 am, he shuts it off without a word. Neither one of us wants to say anything, to acknowledge what we have to face.

Finally, he turns to me and sighs sadly. “It’s that time, sweetheart.” “I know.” He pulls me on top of his hard, chiseled body and locks his arms around me. The tips of our noses touch and his eyes are steely depths that I lose myself. “I’m not saying goodbye,” he tells me. “I refuse to let this be the last time I see you, sweetheart.” All I can do is hide my face, nuzzling into his neck. With all the new faces and opportunities he’ll have in California, why would he wait for little old me back here in Colorado? Honestly, living in California would be a dream for me. With areas that are more open to vegetarian cuisine and lifestyles, I would fly out there the first chance I had. But my first chance would be months down the line and by then Adam would likely move on from me. “California sounds amazing,” I say into his neck, my eyes squeezed shut to keep the tears from falling. “You’ll do great out there. And I’ll visit when I can.” “You better,” he said, trailing his fingertips in slow circles along my back. “I’m going to call you every day until you do.” I wish I can believe him but I don’t. He has no reason to. Lightly, he taps his hand against my bare ass. “I really gotta go, sweetheart. I can’t be late for my own damn assignment.” Reluctantly I slide off his body, mourning the loss of our skin to skin contact as I lay in bed and watch him dress. I watch his soft but still thick, meaty cock disappear under boxer briefs. His sexy hips and strong thighs disappear under his jeans and his sculpted abs, chest, and shoulders hide under his shirt. When he starts

putting his shoes on, I throw on sweatpants and a hoodie to walk him to the door. He kisses my temple and we walk down the stairs together holding hands. I can’t help but cling to his fingers once we reach the door. “Look, thanks for everything,” I say, trying to keep from choking up. “It’s been fu-” “Shh.” He cuts me off by touching his thumb to my lower lip. “I told you no goodbyes, Mia. I mean it.” His mouth crashes to mine in another breath-stealing kiss. I lose myself in his strong, overwhelming sensations and presence for one more time. It feels like the rest of the world falls away. He breaks the kiss far too soon but keeps cupping my face and his forehead against mine. “I’ll be in touch, sweetheart,” he says softly before giving me one last soft kiss. “See you again soon.” And with that, he’s gone. *** I can’t sleep after he leaves but I can’t bring myself to cry either. It’s like my body and brain completely reject the notion that he’s gone. They don’t accept it. It can’t be true. He was just here. He told me it wasn’t goodbye. After tossing and turning for what feels like hours, I glance at my clock. It’s just after 5:30 am. Adam told me his flight departed at 0600. I chew my lip thoughtfully as I throw the covers back and grab my car keys. Maybe all I need is some closure. In the early, gray morning light I drive to Peabody Hill. It’s a lookout spot that overlooks the entire town and air

base. My friends and I used to come up here in high school to drink, smoke pot and watch the planes take off and land at the base. I brought Adam here three days ago and we fucked the night away under the stars. Now alone, I bring my car right up to the peak, cut the engine and slowly lean against the hood as I look on below. A plane is on the runway looking ready for takeoff. It can only be the plane he’s on. It looks like a toy, no bigger than a pen from where I’m standing. The aircraft marshalls on the ground can only be seen by their glowing batons waving on the runway. When the plane starts moving, my heart stops in my chest. It feels like nothing in the world is moving except for that plane. It rolls to the end of the runway and pauses for a minute. I’m certain I’m holding my breath during the entire time. And then it’s going. Driving in a straight line, it’s picking up speed quickly. Now my heart is thundering like it’s going to burst out of my chest. It’s painful. Suddenly it’s in the air, flying away from me and disappearing into the clouds in no time at all. No time for me to react or feel. It hits me all at once that he’s gone. Only when there’s no sign of the plane left do I allow my tears to fall.

CHAPTER 12 MIA

Has it really been only three weeks since Adam’s been gone? It feels like years. “Cheer the hell up, girl,” Jessa says, throwing a pillow at me. “You can’t still be missing him. I mean he was hot and all but you’ve gotta move on. Hot airmen are a dime a dozen.” “It’s not just that he was hot,” I retort. “He didn’t make me feel like being a weirdo for not eating meat. He actually liked me for who I was. And I… started falling for him.” “After a week?! Damn, that must have been some magical cock.” “It was,” I sigh wistfully. Adam and I did keep in touch through daily phone calls and texts for the first week at least. But lately the contact has dropped in frequency. He says the new job has him insanely busy. He’s training new mechanics round the clock and barely has time for anything else. I believe him. But I’m sure that’s not the only thing he’s busy with. Right now he’s probably got some smoking hot, aspiring actress in his lap and isn’t thinking of me at all. The thought of him kissing and touching some other woman in the same way he touched me makes my stomach churn.

Like really, really churn. “Fuck, I think I’m gonna be sick.” A wave of nausea hits me as I run to Jessa’s bathroom, the same one where Adam and I first hooked up in the shower and my stomach wants to heave even more. I kneel in front of her toilet and promptly lose my breakfast. Ever the concerned friend, Jessa watches me from the doorway as I flush and try to clean up as best I can once my stomach’s empty. “I don’t mean to alarm you,” she says. “But did your monthly friend arrive last week? We were synced up last time so I knew it had to be around the same time this month.” My heart stops. I look up at her slowly, eyes widening. Her eyes grow to as big as saucers in return as her mouth drops open. My silent reply tells her all she needs to know. “Mia!” she shrieks. “Did you not use… anything with him?” “I took my pills, I swear I did!” I bring my palm to my forehead as I close my eyes and try to breathe. Try to remember. I usually took my birth control pill first thing in the morning. There may have been a few instances where Adam woke me up with sex and I completely forgot about taking it. “Fuck my life, Jess. What am I gonna do?” “Okay, let’s not freak out,” Jessa said, rubbing my arms comfortingly. “We don’t know for sure. Let’s go to the store and get you a test. That’s the first step. Let’s not run before we can crawl.” “Please don’t use that analogy,” I mutter as I grab my purse and fly out the door.

*** “Thank fuck for self-checkout,” I say to myself as we leave Walgreens. I have my hood up and make sure not to make eye contact with anyone in the store. “Buying pregnancy tests isn’t a big deal, Mia,” Jessa says as we get in the car. “We’re in our twenties now, we’re not teenagers. It’s pretty much expected at this point.” “Easy for you to say,” I snap. “Your potential baby daddy isn’t a guy you’ve known for a week and who just moved to the land of Hollywood and porn stars.” “Sounds like pregnancy hormones talking,” she smirks. “Oh my God. Shut up,” I groan. “Lighten up, Mia. The results aren’t gonna change whether you’re flipping out or having a laugh.” “Fine. I’ll tear these open and take the test right here in your car.” “Bitch, you better not!” Despite the fact that I absolutely am freaking out on the inside, I’m grateful to have Jessa with me for both comic relief and moral support. Once we’re back at her house, she heads straight for the kitchen. “I’ll make us some fruit smoothies while you’re in there,” she says. “The vitamins will be good for you if the test is positive. If it’s negative, I’ll add vodka to celebrate our relief.” “Thanks, Jess,” I say appreciatively and head to the bathroom once again with the three different tests I bought and shut the door. Upon opening the first one, I realize it comes with two

pregnancy tests and feel like an idiot for buying three separate ones. I’m surprised Jessa didn’t laugh at that. But hey, she knows I’ve never done this before. I read over the instructions with painstaking care, then sit on the toilet and take the first test. By the time I flush and wash my hands, I have no idea how I’m supposed to live through the three-minute wait for the results to show up. Jessa is poised holding a bottle of vodka over a blender filled with bananas, strawberries, blueberries, ice, and protein powder when I exit the bathroom. “Well?” she says expectantly. I glance at my watch. “Two more minutes.” “Oh yeah,” she rolls her eyes as she sets the liquor bottle down. “I forgot about this part. It’s really the worst. Well, cover your ears, missy.” I do as she says to drown out her impossibly loud blender as she pulverizes the fruit and ice. “You need to add some water to that,” I tell her. “Or milk.” “I’m waiting to hear on your results first,” she says in a singsongy voice, waving the vodka bottle around again. My watch tells me three minutes have passed and I exhale a deep breath as I go to retrieve the stick from the bathroom counter. In spite of the agonizing wait, I’m almost too afraid to look. I double check the instructions and feel like passing out when I see the matching result on the stick. Two lines. Positive. Pregnant. The look on my face when I glance up at Jessa must have said everything.

She set the vodka bottle down on the counter and comes up to wrap her arms around me. “It’s okay,” she says soothingly while rubbing my back. “No matter what, everything is going to be okay.” “How?” I moan. “I mean, how am I even going to tell Adam? What is he going to think?” “Well.” Jessa hesitates before continuing. “Depending on what you decide to do, he may not have to know anything.” I know what she’s getting at and I know I can’t go through with what she’s suggesting. “I can’t do that, Jess. There’s no way.” “Okay. I’m just saying it’s one option.” “Not for me.” “Alright. Then you should tell him sooner rather than later.” I sigh heavily as I sink down into the couch, wishing I could just disappear into the cushions. “This doesn’t seem like an appropriate discussion for texts or phone calls.” Jessa chews her lip thoughtfully. “Which base is he at? Turner?” “Yeah, I’m pretty sure it’s that one,” I reply. “Let me look into it,” she says, standing up. “I might know someone who can hook you up with a flight out there.” I look at her. “Are you serious, Jess?” “Would I lie about this?” She smiled as she started up the stairs to her bedroom. “We gotta get your baby daddy in the loop! Just drink your smoothie and relax. Leave the logistics up to me.” I crack a smile as I lay back down on the couch. I’m so lucky to have a friend like her. A hand flies to my belly which still shows no signs of pregnancy or movement. I

can only be five weeks along at the most. Adam’s handsome face flashes through my mind and I wonder how he will react. He’s slowly dropped contact and we’ve barely spoken in the last week. I haven’t tried calling him yet so as to not be overbearing if he’s trying to distance himself but I know I have to make that call soon. I just wish I knew what his reaction will be.

CHAPTER 13 ADAM

I miss my sweetheart. The work days at my new job are long, and especially so without her. She occupies my thoughts more than ever, despite the new responsibilities, people to meet, and places to explore. On top of supervising the new plane mechanics and emerging engineers, I have mountains of paperwork waiting for me at my desk. While I’m getting into the swing of things, I’m at work before the sun is home and not home until long after it goes down. I got a fatter housing allowance with the new job so I splurged on renting a house off-base with a nice yard and two extra bedrooms. No more hotel rooms and gross barracks shared with tons of other men. I figure I could get roommates if it becomes too lonely, but I like having my personal space. So far I have zero desire to bring any women home except for a certain one back in Colorado that I knew for all of a week. With my crazy work schedule I haven’t been able to call her as much in the past week, and it bugs me that she hasn’t tried to get ahold of me. She seemed to think that letting me go would be best but that was the last thing I wanted. Yeah, we didn’t speak a word of commitment but I’m not done with her. Maybe it’s selfish but I want to keep

her. Fuck the distance and whatever else comes between us. We had something there that was more than physical. Still, not feeling her sensual curves against my skin is affecting me like a bad illness. I’ve never craved anyone so badly. While sitting at my desk surrounded by paperwork, all I can think about is bending her over it and pounding into that pussy with all of my might. I want nothing more than to unleash everything I’m holding in my chest when I think about her. Knock, knock, knock. I blink and rub my eyes as I’m yanked out of my daydream by a rapping at my office door. “Yes, come in,” I say. My door opens and one of my female airmen walks in and salutes. I’m still getting to know all the rookies under my command but she’s one of the attractive ones. Bright blue eyes are framed by thick mascara and eyeliner while her blond hair is pulled back in a tight bun as mandated under Air Force dress code. Her mechanic’s jumpsuit doesn’t hide her large bust or wide set hips in the slightest. She’s been making eyes at me since my first day so I’m instantly suspicious of this visit. “At ease, Airman. What can I do for you?” I ask. She drops her salute and smiles brightly as she approaches my desk. “I just wanted to see if there’s anything I can do to help you settle in, Sergeant. To make you feel more at home here at Turner.” “I… appreciate that,” I reply slowly, trying to find appropriate words. “I’m settling in just fine, thank you.” My eyes flicker to the nametag on her uniform which reads HOLLAND, but I also notice her jumpsuit is

unzipped down to the center of her chest. As she starts leaning over my desk, her ample cleavage is barely held back by her uniform and is threatening to spill out. “Some of us from the squadron are heading down to the Delta Breeze after work tonight. You should come.” She says the word come especially breathily and parts her lips before biting her lower one. “I’d love to see you in your civvies, Sergeant Gunn.” “No, thank you.” I look her squarely in the eye and speak firmly, letting her know this is her last chance to remain professional. “I have a lot of work to do and will be heading home for the night.” Rather than take the hint to back off, she doubles down on her intent. “You work too hard, Sergeant.” Holland is bent all the way over my desk now and puts her hands on top of mine as her tits press into the wood. “I’ve seen you at the gym, too. Everything about you is hard. Why not unwind a little?” I lean back in my chair and pull my hands out from underneath hers. “Leave. Now.” “Oh come on, Sergeant-” “You are dismissed, Holland,” I bark sharply. “And tomorrow you will be transferred to a new squadron.” “What? No!” She stands upright immediately and zips up her jumpsuit, her eyes wide with panic. “I’m sorry! Please don’t tell my husband-” “I’m not going to say dismissed again, Airman!” Finally, she runs out of my office and I slump in my chair with my head in my hands. I didn’t need another headache this week.

This was the exact reason why I never hooked up with women in the military. I didn’t trust them as far as I could throw them, and you never knew whoever else they were sleeping with. In my desk drawer, my personal cell phone buzzed with a call. I yanked it open, expecting yet another pain in my ass but felt my heart swell with relief. “Hey, sweetheart,” I answer, eager to hear Mia’s voice. It’s been nearly a week since I’ve talked to her. “Hey, handsome,” she says sweetly. “How are you?” “Ugh, alright.” I mentally debate telling her about what just happened not a minute earlier but decide against it. “I’m still at work. It’s a bunch of bullshit. How are you?” “Um, okay.” She seems nervous about something. I can hear her voice tremble a little on the line. “Same old shit here, too.” “Damn, I miss you.” I sigh as I lean all the way back in my chair, forgetting all about Holland’s tits spilling out over my desk and wishing Mia’s perky ones were right in front of me. “I miss you, too,” she says. “Actually that’s partly why I’m calling. I have an opportunity to come to California.” “You do?!” I rock forward to sit up straight in my chair, my heart thundering excitedly. “When? How?” “This weekend,” she giggles. “And Jessa has some connections through her ex-husband. I can fly over with a special civilian pass.” “For how long? Wait nevermind, fuck it. I’m not letting you leave once you’re here.” I’m already planning it out in my head, first with tying her to my bed then figuring out how much leave I can take from work. “It’ll be just for the weekend, unfortunately.” She sounds nervous again. “I really can’t wait to see you,

Adam.” My smile is reaching from ear to ear. Just hearing her voice was enough to bring up my whole mood, but knowing she’ll be here in my arms again has made my entire week. “I can’t wait to see you too, sweetheart. You think I’m joking but I’m really not letting you leave. Not until I’ve made you come so hard you won’t be able to walk out of my house anyway.” She giggles naughtily at that. “Who knows, you might get sick of me pretty soon.” “Never,” I say solemnly. “The more time I spent with you, the more I couldn’t get enough of you Mia. I mean that.” “I feel the same way,” she says softly. Again I get the feeling that she wants to say more but doesn’t for some reason. “You’ve made this good ol’ boy happy as a pig in shit, sweetheart,” I tell her. “I’m absolutely dying to have you in my arms again.” “So romantic,” she giggles again. “Well, I’ll let you get back to work. I’ll see you this weekend.” “Have a good night, sweetheart. Sweet dreams.” I end the call feeling a million times better than five minutes ago. My sweetheart always has that effect on me. When she gets here, I decide I’m going to man up and do the right thing. No matter what I try to tell myself, she means more to me than a week-long fling and I’m going to ask her to be my girlfriend. Even if we have to be long-distance for a while, she’s the only woman I want. Obviously, tits pressed up against my desk won’t even lead me astray. Plus I know she’ll be happier out here in California, with more hippie

vegetarians to connect with, and me. I just hope she feels the same way when she gets here.

CHAPTER 14 MIA

“Oh my God. Are you kidding me, Mia?” “No. I’ve seriously never been on a plane before.” Jessa rolls her eyes so far back in her head, I’m sure she can see the people in the cars behind us. “How is that even possible?” “It’s called not growing up as a military brat. Or being married into the military.” “Well depending on how things go, you’ll probably need to get used to flying.” “Is it that bad?” I’m holding my stomach as we pull up to the airport, already nauseous all morning on top of feeling extra nervous about traveling 1200 miles away from home for the first time. Not to mention, while 30,000 feet in the air and in a cramped vessel filled with hundreds of other people. “Well no, it’s not bad but I’m not one to ask. I’ve been traveling on planes since I was an infant. But if you have issues with heights or claustrophobia, you might not enjoy it.” “Great,” I mutter. I actually don’t have a huge fear of those things but doing this alone just after finding out I’m pregnant while having no idea how the baby’s daddy will react to the news of said pregnancy, didn’t exactly assuage my fears.

With Jessa’s help, I got my boarding pass printed out at the kiosk then listened to a quick lecture from her about going through security and finding my gate. “He’ll be waiting for you when you arrive. You shouldn’t have any problems. But just in case you end up in Timbuktu or some other bullshit place, I’m just a phone call away.” “Thank you, Jess.” My eyes well with tears before I can stop them and I pull her into a tight hug. “Thank you so much for everything. I don’t know what I’d do without you.” “Oh come on now, emotional pregnant girl,” she teases but hugs me back tightly. “You know I’d do anything for you. Everything will be okay, I promise. Send me a postcard from California, okay?” I nod and take a deep breath before heading to the security line and weaving through. I thought it would be confusing but the process is extremely streamlined. I get through, find my gate, and board the plane without any issues. Taking off is a bit scary but I watch the safety demonstration with rapt attention and study the safety information card like my life depends on it. When we land a little over two hours later, I’m ready for the descent after double-checking my seatbelt and taking a few deep breaths. My nerves return as I step off the plane and walk through the new, unfamiliar airport. I don’t have any bags to check and I’m not sure where to go so I just follow everyone else who got off the same flight. As I slowly descend down an escalator, the next few moments play out like a Hollywood romcom. I see Adam and my heart stops. He’s wearing his blue formal uniform and looks so incredibly sharp and

handsome. He’s even holding a bouquet of roses. I’m frozen and the escalator is just carrying me down slowly, closer and closer to him. His smile is just as charming and playful as I remember and it tugs at my heart. For a moment, I forget all about why I came here and what I need to tell him. My legs finally work when I reach the bottom of the escalator and I speed walk the last few steps to him. Don’t fucking cry. Do not cry. “Hey sweetheart,” he says in his deep, honey smooth drawl as he gathers me in his powerful arms. “Hey handsome,” I reply as I melt against him, feeling like I can finally relax in his solidness as he holds me up. His mouth rains deep, possessive kisses down on me and I close my eyes, losing myself in them. It must look like a picture perfect moment to other people watching. The young Air Force couple reunited and kissing, complete with his arms still holding the bouquet behind my back. “For you,” he says, holding them out to me when we untangle. “What for?” I ask, inhaling their sweet scent deeply. “For being you,” he answers, lacing his fingers through mine as we begin to walk through the airport. “And for coming all the way out here to be with my sad, lonely ass.” My heart swells and my stomach flutters, which brings my attention back to my reason for coming. He’s happy now but what about when I drop this bomb on him? “You hungry, sweetheart?” he asks as we head toward the parking garage. “Yes. Starving actually,” I admit. After throwing up my toast early this morning, I haven’t eaten anything in hours for fear of not being able to keep it down.

“Whatcha craving, gorgeous? Aside from me, that is,” he smirks. “The two great things about this state are the weather and the endless food options.” “Funny guy,” I muse as I kiss him quickly over the center console of his car. “Honestly I’m craving avocados like mad. Like if I had a gigantic bowl of guacamole in front of me, I’d be the happiest girl alive.” “You got it, baby.” We peel out of the garage and into the warm, California sun. Palm trees line the streets and I can smell just a hint of salty ocean spray. I have no idea how far we are from the ocean but we’re close enough to feel the cool breeze and I feel like I can get used to this. That’s if Adam still wants me around after finding out I’m pregnant. He takes us to an adorable small Mexican restaurant with a surprising amount of vegetarian options and the best guacamole I’ve ever had. I dig into my guac and my veggie quesadilla like I haven’t eaten in days while Adam enjoys his chicken tacos. “I think you’ll be proud of me,” he says. “I haven’t eaten red meat since I came out here. Just chicken and fish on my workout days.” “Really?” I ask through a mouthful of salsa. I have to admit, I am impressed. I thought he was just humoring me by trying out vegetarian cooking but it really seems he’s like incorporating it more into his diet. “Really, babe. I’ve noticed a huge difference in my mood and energy. The farmer’s market here is also great for fresh produce. We can go tomorrow and cook up a storm.” He smiles at me from across the table with his steely cool eyes radiating warmth. “Meeting you has improved my life in so many ways, Mia.” My body floods with a mixture of feelings, mainly love

and guilt. I’m still falling for him hard and it seems he’s feeling the same way. How will the pregnancy affect his feelings? I don’t know how he acts when he’s unhappy about something. I don’t even know if he ever wants kids. It’s gnawing at me hard. I have to tell him soon. The nerves in my stomach return tenfold and my appetite disappears. Adam finishes his tacos and I get a container for my leftovers before we leave. He seems to notice I’m quieter and something’s on my mind but he doesn’t pry. “You must be tired, sweetheart,” he says, rubbing my neck as we drive to his house. “Flying is always draining. I’ll run a hot bath and give you a nice massage. How does that sound?” “Sounds amazing,” I say with a tight smile. He smiles back as his hand drops to my thigh and squeezes suggestively. “I can’t promise it won’t get frisky, though.” “Good.” I run my hand along his firm thigh and bite my lip as I see the bulge rising in his pants. Fuck, he looks so hot in his uniform and I’ve been dying without his touch for three weeks. I need him. I need him on top of me, inside me, and whispering dirty things directly into my brain. No, tell him first. Don’t drag it out. It’ll just get even harder to tell him if you wait. I swallow the dry lump in my throat. I know it’s the right thing to do. I have to do it. But when we get inside his charming, single-story home, his erect cock pressing on my ass and his lips on my neck are incredibly distracting. “You don’t want to know how many times I’ve jerked off picturing this beautiful body,” he growls hungrily as his hands find my budding nipples. “And now that you’re

finally here I just need to sink inside of you.” “Adam, I have to tell you something,” I blurt out. If I don’t tell him right now, I know I never will. He immediately loosens his hold and allows me to turn around to face him, a concerned expression etched in his chiseled features. “What is it, babe? Something wrong?” I gulp, trying to gather my strength. “Could be, depending on how you look at it.” “Tell me, Mia.” With a final breath, I release the burden I’ve been holding all week. “I’m pregnant.”

CHAPTER 15 ADAM

Mia trembles like a leaf and looks absolutely terrified. That isn’t what I expected to hear but I’m not angry. Quite the opposite, in fact. I’m relieved. I reach a hand out to touch her face, gently stroking the apple of her cheekbone with my thumb. “Are you sure, sweetheart?” She nods nervously. “I haven’t been to the doctor yet. But I’ve been taking tests all week. I didn’t want to tell you over the phone.” A grin spreads across my face that I can’t shake. Holy shit, I’m gonna be a daddy! Mia only looks more confused as I start to chuckle so I wrap my arm around her and draw her into my chest. “Don’t look so scared, babe.” I kiss her forehead and rub my hands across her back. “I’m not mad. It’s okay.” “Is it really?” She looks up at me, skepticism still written all over her face. I crash my mouth against hers in reply, holding her tightly against me. My heart beats with a new vigor, with the excitement of our baby growing between us. Sure it’s not an ideal situation but we’re together, compatible, and due to my profession, the baby will be well-cared for and financially secure. Mia finally relaxes against me, returning my kisses with equal passion and hunger. We make our way the

short distance to my couch and sit down, never removing our lips from each other’s skin. “I was going to tell you something too,” I whisper against her neck. “Hmm?” she asks, arching her back deliciously under my touch. “Be mine.” I nip her earlobe, eliciting a sweet, sexy whimper from her lips. Her big doe eyes pop open and stare at me. “Be… yours?” “Yes, mine. My woman.” I return her gaze intently. “I already only have eyes for you, Mia. No one else compares. You’re the only one I want.” I run my hand across her lower belly. “Well, you and our little surprise bundle of joy.” Her eyes mist with tears and a smile begins to spread across her face. “So you want us to be together? Like… a family?” “Yes, sweetheart,” I tell her earnestly. “Move here. Live with me. The baby will have excellent health coverage and will be provided for.” I take her face in my hands and lose myself in the warm pools of her eyes. “And all will be right with the world once I’m waking up next to you every day.” Mia wipes her eyes and her smile is now as big as mine. “I’m so happy,” she breathes, wrapping her arms around my neck. “I didn’t expect this to go so well. You and this baby are all I want in the world.” She turns serious for a moment. “Well you two and more avocados.” “You’ll always have me here,” I promise her. “And I’ll hunt down every last avocado in the world if that’s what my sweetheart wants.”

With giggles and kisses, I lay her back on the couch and press the full length of my body flush against hers. I need her more than ever. Now that I know she’s the mother of my child, I’m even more turned on by her perfect little body. I can’t wait until her belly becomes adorable and round and her tits get even bigger. “You have too much fucking clothes on,” she pants, pulling at the buttons of my jacket. I’m still in my dress blues and she’s absolutely right. Between desperate, hungry kisses that hold nothing back, we help each other out of our clothes with the fastest unzipping and unbuttoning we can muster. My uniform is supposed to be folded extremely carefully to not get creases in it but I don’t give a fuck. It’s all over my living room floor and Mia is naked underneath me. And fuck, she looks amazing. “Oh my God baby, I’ve missed you.” I kiss her perfect teardrop breasts, rolling my tongue over the tight little buds of her nipples before I slowly kiss my way down. I groan in pleasure against her skin, savoring the sweet, searing warmth of her body heat against me as her nails rake down my back and her thighs squeeze on either side of me. I stop my mouth at her lower belly, just above her trimmed patch of pubic hair. “My baby’s in here,” I say, more to myself than to her. “Mm hmm,” she agrees, running her fingers across my scalp. “I can’t wait to meet him or her.” Keeping my lips on her belly, I part her pussy lips with my fingers, spreading her wetness around in lazy circles. “Oh God, mmm!” she groans, grabbing the arm of the couch above her head for leverage. Her pussy is already soaked and quivering.

“You’re gonna have to learn to be quiet,” I tell her. “‘Cause I’ll never get enough of this sweet pussy even after the kid is out.” I push two fingers into her gorgeous, slick cunt and she tries to cover her own mouth but the moan escapes. Chuckling, I plant a kiss on her swollen, quivering clit hood. “We’ve got time to practice, babe.” I just barely get started on sucking her clit and fucking her pussy with my hand when she starts pulling on my arms. “I need more,” she moans softly. “I need your cock so badly. I need you to fill me up.” “Mmm as you wish, sweetheart.” Still, I’m determined to make her come before I penetrate her. I know she’s almost there already. I kiss her deeply as I line my body up to hers. Her thighs squeeze around my hips and pull me in. I hold back just slightly and rub my erect cock against the outside of her entrance. We moan in unison. Her in frustration, me in pleasure. It feels so fucking good on the sensitive underside where the head meets the shaft. I could almost get off from this alone. My rock hard shaft presses against her clit and she’s going wild. When her eyes roll back and her thrashing becomes erratic, I slide right into her as her pussy convulses from her orgasm and give her the fucking she’s been begging for. God, yes. This is the only pussy I want for the rest of my life. She squeezes in around my cock on all sides like the most perfect-fitting glove. Her perky tits are bouncing hypnotically and she’s got the most blissed out, overwhelmed with pleasure expression on her face. She

looks absolutely beautiful and she’s all fucking mine. My baby’s inside her and will forever connect the two of us. Her next orgasm feels like it rips mine from my body. I feel like I’m coming buckets and her pussy won’t stop milking my cock for more. I’m lightheaded when I collapse, panting as the blood pulses in my ears and we’re both covered in a sheen of sweat. “I love you, Mia,” I whisper to her in between ragged breaths. “I love you so much, Adam.” Her fingers caress my scalp and I feel her kiss on my forehead. “I can’t wait to start the rest of our lives together.” “Me too, sweetheart.” Together we interlace our hands on her belly.

EPILOGUE MIA FIVE YEARS LATER

“Sweetheart, Kai’s gonna be home any minute.” “Don’t stop,” I moan, gripping the sheets in my fists and pressing my ass back toward Adam’s cock. “Don’t you dare stop fucking me.” He chuckles and delivers a satisfying slap to my ass. “Damn, my wife is such a naughty woman.” With a firm grip just above my hip bones, he slams relentlessly into me again and again, owning my pussy and my body just like our first time together. “Oh God, yes!” I cry out in pleasure. “You fuck me so good.” “Your pussy’s the sweetest thing ever, baby,” Adam snarls back to me. “You fit my cock so perfectly.” When he slams into me for the final time as he erupts, I see the gorgeous ocean view outside our window before my own eyes roll back into my head from the deep, pulsing pleasure radiating through me. Life is beautiful, dare I say perfect. Not only do I have the love of my life and my amazing son, but Adam’s job transferred us to beautiful Okinawa, Japan about a year ago. After putting myself through culinary school in California, I got a job as a private executive chef, specializing in vegetarian and vegan cooking.

Both of our salaries allowed us a beautiful beach front home just a short drive away from the air base and a dual-language preschool for Kai so that he learns Japanese and English concurrently. Speaking of whom, we hear him coming through the front door with his nanny right as we finish our quickie in the bedroom. “Think I knocked you up again that time, sweetheart,” Adam says with a devilish grin as he zips up his fly. “Good.” I smile as I quickly check myself in a mirror. “Give me a girl this time, you hot stud.” At this point in our lives, we’re in a good position to plan for more kids and have been trying every chance we get. “Hello, we’re home!” calls the nanny, Ikumi, from the foyer. “How was school?” I ask, but Kai is already running to his playroom. He’s obsessed with Legos lately and Daddy is already waiting to play with him. My heart swells at seeing Adam sitting on the floor with his son. He’s been such a devoted father and husband. I couldn’t have picked a better man to have a brief fling with all those years ago, let alone fall in love with and marry. When I go to the kitchen, Ikumi is already getting ingredients out for cooking dinner. She’s helping me learn how to cook traditional Japanese cuisine with a vegetarian twist. “He’s doing wonderfully at picking up the language,” she says, smiling at the boys in the direction of the playroom. “We had a whole conversation in Japanese about Legos on the way home.” “He’ll be teaching his parents soon,” I laugh. Adam and I have been learning from classes as well as from Ikumi, but we’re still amazed at how fast Kai absorbs and

picks up everything. “Yes,” she agrees. “He’s incredibly intelligent. Handsome, too! The girls in class already have crushes on him.” “Thank you for everything, again,” I tell her sincerely. “If it wasn’t for you helping us, moving here would have been a lot more difficult.” “It’s my pleasure,” she says with a sweet smile. “I love your family.” “Yes,” I say as I look on adoringly at my son and husband playing, with the waves crashing along the sandy beach just outside the window. The sky is turning a brilliant pinkish orange as the sun sets on the horizon. “I love my family too.” The End Thank you for reading Her Soldier! I hope you enjoyed it. :) Check out my other books on Amazon here! And don’t forget to say hello to me on Facebook! I love hearing from my readers. :) xoxo, Annette Fields