Muscling In - Lily Harlem

Evernight Publishing ®

www.evernightpublishing.com

Copyright© 2015 Lily Harlem

ISBN: 978-1-77233-558-3

Cover Artist: Jay Aheer

Editor: Jessica Ruth

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

WARNING: The unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this copyrighted work is illegal. No part of this book may be used or reproduced electronically or in print without written permission, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in reviews.

This is a work of fiction. All names, characters, and places are fictitious. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, organizations, or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental.

DEDICATION

For all my wonderful readers who enjoy sexy threesomes!

MUSCLING IN Lily Harlem Copyright © 2015

Prologue Coben Wright paced to the far wall of his small room and stared at the wall—it was nothing fancy, bricks painted standard issue green, likely with a standard issue paintbrush by a standard

issue decorator. His shoulders were tense, his guts tight and a weight tugged at his cock and balls. He pushed out a breath and shoved his hands through his hair, kept them there, pulling at the roots and with his elbows pointing outward. He’d be here soon. Or so they’d planned. But perhaps something had come up? Maybe he hadn’t been able to get away or walk in this direction without being seen. He couldn’t be seen. That was non-negotiable. It meant mission abort. Because they couldn’t arouse suspicion, not after all this time of being so careful and of keeping what they felt

for each other under wraps. Sure, they’d had a couple of close calls but they’d been lucky. They were watertight, solid. They were in the clear. Coben turned and strode to his bed. He sat and rested his palms on the scratchy gray blanket. He’d be glad to get out of military digs and enjoy home comforts on a daily basis rather than just when he was on leave. His parents’ house in Surrey might be a bit chintzy and covered in cat hair, but it was warm, soft and peaceful. A direct contrast to the last ten years he’d spent in the Royal Air Force, and until he found his own place, a flowery suburban bungalow would more than do. He tapped his foot on the floor.

Then, irritated by seeing his dull khaki socks, he jiggled his knee. Damn. He hoped Edward hadn’t run into a serious plan changer on his way from West Two Wing. What if he didn’t get here? Coben would go insane with need. It would tear his heart in two. Okay, so this was the last time they’d be together, but still, it had to happen. They couldn’t leave it like this. Hanging, dangling, no goodbyes, no kiss, no fuck… Tap. Coben sprang to his feet. A shot of adrenaline went through his system. Just one quiet knock was their signal. Edward had arrived. He dashed to the door and pulled

it open. Edward had a dark green cap pulled low, and his shoulders were hunched. He didn’t say anything, just stepped past Coben into the room. Coben stuck his head out and glanced left and right. The long corridor was empty. Good. He quickly shut the two of them off from the world and flicked the lock. As he turned to Edward he dragged in a deep breath, enjoying the smells his visitor had brought with him—the outdoors, spiced musk, pine needles… man. A fresh wave of arousal shot through Coben. Edward’s scent always

did that to him. Combined with how his presence filled a room with so much more than just his physical size, fuck, he was enough to turn a straight man gay. And Coben had been straight. When he’d joined the military he’d enjoyed many a happy romp with gorgeous girls, in the plural on a few memorable occasions in Hong Kong. But now…now he’d had Edward in his life, he definitely had to tick the bisexual box. Because there was no doubt about it. He found this rough-and-ready soldier really fucking hot. Really fucking irresistible. Edward tugged off his cap and tossed it to the one chair in the room, which sat beside a skinny-legged desk. It

landed on the hook of the straight back. Perfect shot. He scraped his hand over his crew cut and frowned. “Couldn’t get away from Walker. Can talk the bloody hind leg off a donkey, that one.” “Yeah,” Coben agreed, walking up to him. “But you did. Get away, that is.” “Wasn’t going to miss saying goodbye to you, was I?” His voice was gruffer than usual, likely because it was brimming with emotion. He normally flashed a smile as soon as they were alone, but not this time. This was goodbye. Coben felt a stab in his heart. He wished this wasn’t the end of what they had, but they’d been through it many times. They had to move on, get on with

their own lives now. He’d be in civvy street and Edward would be working in his new position in special forces. There was no way they could carry on this thing, whatever it was. It would be too damn complicated. Edward reached out and held Coben’s face, his palms rough on his cheeks. He clasped him beneath his jaw with his thumbs and stared at Coben with fiery intensity in his eyes. “Have you found out…I mean, when you go, that is?” Coben asked. “Yes.” “When?” Edward hesitated. “Soon.” “Where?” “Somewhere.”

Coben’s breath caught his throat. Of course, Edward was no longer allowed to divulge such information. The Official Secrets Act prevented him from giving out any details, even to other members of the military. And there was no way Coben had that level of clearance, not now he was on his last few days of service. At one time he had, but not anymore. That hurt. It did. But he squashed it down. No time for pain. “You’ll be careful, won’t you?” “Always.” Edward leaned forward and swiped his lips over Coben’s. “I’ll always be careful.” “Don’t take risks.” “I can’t guarantee that, but they’ll be calculated ones.”

“And with the odds in your favor.” Coben couldn’t bear the thought of something happening to Edward. Even if he wasn’t in his life, he wanted to go about his days knowing Edward was okay, that he still walked on the planet— somewhere. “Yeah, something like that.” Edward smirked. Damn, there was that smile. Coben felt like he’d won every medal, prize and award whenever he was the recipient of it. Edward was everything he’d ever wanted in a bed partner of the same sex—sexy, dark, protective and brimming with passion. He pressed his body against Edward’s, shoving his hard cock,

through his trousers, into Edward’s groin. “So…” he said breathily. “So what?” Edward asked, parting his lips and holding Coben’s face tighter, his fingers pressing into his temples. “So exactly how are we going to do this?” Coben took hold of Edward’s forearms, feeling the sinewy tendons and bulked muscle beneath his sweater. The heat of Edward’s breath warmed his face. “Do what?” Edward dropped his knees a fraction, then ground upward so their cocks rubbed together. Coben held in a groan. Fuck. He was so turned on. “How,” he managed, “are we going to say goodbye?” The right side of Edward’s mouth

twitched. “Oh, don’t you worry,” he said. “I’ve got it all planned out. I’m going to show you exactly how we’re going to say goodbye and you’ll never forget it.” “That goes without saying and—” Edward smashed his mouth down on Coben’s. His tongue plundered between his lips and he dragged him close. Coben groaned and wound his arms around Edward’s body, delighting in the sculpted contours of his shoulders and the heat that blasted through the material of his clothes. He gave as good as he got, slicking his tongue over Edward’s, pressing their lips together and pulling closer still.

Edward spread the heated kisses over his cheek. He smoothed his hand down his neck and cupped his pectoral muscles as though they were breasts. “I hope you have the stamina for more than once,” he said gruffly, “because I don’t think one unload is going to be enough to keep me going until the day I die.” “Don’t talk about the day you die,” Coben said, tipping his head back so Edward could lick the column of his throat. “And besides, you’ll find a new lover.” “Yeah, one day…but it won’t be you. This memory has to keep my fantasies alive.” Emotion stung Coben’s eyes and he squeezed them shut.

Edward slid his hands lower and undid the top button on Coben’s combats. He gripped the zip. “You’re so fucking hard. This zipper’s going to fucking split.” “Tell me about it.” Slowly Edward drew down the zip. It sat directly over Coben’s shaft and he could make out each set of teeth freeing. “Ah, fuck…” he murmured, frustrated by the slow speed but relishing the anticipation. “Yeah, we’ll fuck in a minute…but first.” Edward sank to his knees. Coben looked at the top of Edward’s head. He could just make out his scalp through his short hair. Shit, if

he was going to…then he wasn’t sure how much stamina he’d have. Edward had a hot, talented mouth and could deep throat for England. “Big, hungry soldier,” Edward murmured in a sinfully sexy voice. The zipper was completely down and he took hold of the waistband of the combats and tugged, pulling them and Coben’s boxer briefs to his knees. Coben’s cock sprang free. He moaned, glad to be relieved of the constraints of clothing. “Edward…” Edward glanced up at him through hooded eyelids. He swept his tongue over his bottom lip, then took hold of Coben’s cock. Locking his knees, Coben tensed

his abdominal muscles and steadied himself. The touch of Edward’s hand could almost be his undoing. Scorching heat, rough palms, a steady squeeze… “You ready?” Edward asked. “Yeah.” Coben nodded, once. Edward leaned forward, stretched his mouth into a large O and took the head of Coben’s cock onto his moist tongue. Breath held, Coben’s chest expanded and his heart rate sped up. Reaching around Coben with his free hand, Edward grabbed his left buttock and squeezed. Coben stared as Edward sank onto him, feeding his cock into his mouth. He watched as his shaft disappeared. On

and on Edward took him. No messing about, no teasing, just a long, luscious ride to the very base of his throat. Once seated fully, Edward’s lips hovering near his pubic hair, Coben blew out a breath through gritted teeth. It felt so damn good. Edward’s grooved palate was pressed up against his glans, his tongue hugging the length of him. He unclenched his fists and rested his hands on Edward’s sharp hair. Edward swallowed, the action tugging the tip of Coben’s cock. “Ah…yeah…” Coben gasped. “More.” Edward did as he’d asked. Coben groaned. He adored that sensation. It was only a small movement,

delicate, but it sent a powerful zing of pleasure through his cock to his balls. He held still for a moment, summoning control. Then he pulled back, watching his saliva-coated shaft emerge. Tightening his grip on Edward’s head, he smoothed back in, full depth. Edward took him, urged him deeper still by gripping both of his buttocks and pulling him closer. “Fuck…really…” Coben said, wondering how the hell Edward could tolerate him so far down his gullet. He’d never get blown like this again. Edward’s talents were unique. Again he pulled almost out, pushed back in. Faster this time, enjoying the tight seal of Edward’s lips

around his cock. “I’m gonna…fuck your mouth.” Edward didn’t answer but he nipped the flesh on Coben’s ass, digging his fingertips in like pincers. Coben gasped, the nip of pain adding to his cresting pleasure. He swung his hips forward with more vigor. Dragged them back again, forging in and out of Edward, who huffed and puffed but took it all. “Get ready,” he managed. His balls were so tight, packed into his body, almost painful with their need to release. “Oh, God…it’s here…” He gave in to the moment, let the cum surge free, shoot up his dick and into Edward’s throat. He gripped Edward’s head,

making sure he was lodged as deep as possible as he came. Edward swallowed, creating that heavenly tugging as he took what Coben gave him. “Ah…ah…yeah…” Coben said, then bit his bottom lip. He couldn’t make too much noise. What if someone was walking past? But damn he wanted to scream his pleasure, let Edward know how fucking fantastic he made him feel. He withdrew, steamed back in, more cum shooting from his cockhead. He squeezed his eyes shut and committed this moment to memory. It would be wank fodder in the months to come. A final spurt of release flooded

Edward’s mouth. Coben stilled. A fullbody tremble attacked him. Gently he stroked Edward’s hair. “Thank you.” Edward released his buttocks and drew back. He caught Coben’s shaft in his hand and looked up at him. “No thanks necessary.” He wiped the back of his forearm over his mouth and stood. “My pleasure.” “You want me to return the favor?” Coben grinned and cupped his hand over Edward’s cock. It was surging against the material of his combats, the glorious width and girth easy to feel. “Nah,” Edward shook his head, “I’ve got other ideas for you.” “That sounds interesting. I…oh—” Coben was now staring at the

blanket on his bed. Edward had spun him around and tipped him over. He fisted the sheet and again locked his knees. “My dick needs your ass,” Edward said, palming Coben’s buttocks and pushing them apart. “Now.” “Okay…yes, do it…” “Oh, don’t worry about that.” Edward kind of chuckled but it was deep and strained. “I will.” Coben heard the hurried whoosh of Edward’s zipper, then the rustle of material as he shucked down his pants. He glanced between his torso and his underarm and caught a glimpse of Edward’s big, circumcised cock arrowed toward him.

“Keep still,” Edward said. “I fucking need you so bad.” He glanced at his own cock, softer now that he’d come but still at half-mast. “Get inside me.” Edward ran his cool, lubed fingers down the cleft of Coben’s buttocks. “So fucking hot to see you like this,” he said, finding the center of Coben’s hole and pushing in, knuckle deep. Coben shut his eyes and relished this initial invasion. He felt tight, taut, and guessed it was the intensity of this, their last time, making him tense. “Open up.” Edward’s voice was almost a growl. “More.” He added another digit and swirled his fingertips

over Coben’s sensitive internal spot. “Ah, yeah…” Coben said, a fresh wave of arousal darting through him. “I’m not feeling patient. This hardon fucking hurts.” Edward stretched his fingers wide, scissoring them and in turn parting Coben’s hole. The burn was intoxicating. Coben wanted more. “Do it. Just fucking fuck me.” He twitched his hips from side to side, then bucked back, forcing himself onto Edward’s fingers. “Greedy bastard,” Edward said, pulling out. Instantly his cock was at Coben’s pucker. He gripped Coben about the waist, a vicelike hold, then pushed in. Coben opened his mouth but no

words came out. The width of Edward always took a moment to adjust to. Fuck it felt good, though—hot, edgy, blissful. Edward eased in farther until the flared head of his glans popped inside Coben. He held it there. “I thought…you were…going to… fuck me…” Coben managed breathlessly. “I am.” Edward suddenly tunneled to full depth, fast, hard, until his balls bashed up against Coben’s. Coben again bit his bottom lip to prevent himself from crying out. Edward was silent except for his grunting breaths. He pulled back, slammed in again, keeping Coben exactly where he wanted him.

Coben hung his head and allowed himself to be used like a fuck toy. On and on Edward blasted in and out of him, smoothing over his prostate, drawing Coben to another full-blown erection. But he wasn’t going to come again, not this time. Edward was on the edge, his cock so thick and hard. “I’m coming,” Edward said on a gasp. “I’m coming in your sexy fucking…soldier…ass.” He punctuated the last words with wild thrusts. “Yes, yes…” Edward reached forward, gripped Coben’s shoulders and pulled him back, impaling him onto his cock. “Yeah. Ah, it’s here…”

Coben gripped his own cock and squeezed. He didn’t want to climax again, not yet. This would even them up. Then they could fuck some more, soon… “Yeah,” Edward said, slamming to the hilt and freezing. “That…is…it.” Coben was aware of the cock in his ass pulsing through release, filling him with spunk. He groaned, adoring being so possessed, so needed, so fucking fucked. “Ah, bloody hell,” Edward groaned. “Shh,” Coben whispered. “Shh…” Edward went silent, though the vibrations of sheer pleasure emanating from him went through Coben’s body. Coben clenched his sphincter,

squeezing the big cock in there. “Oh God…Cobe,” Edward said, releasing Coben’s shoulders. “Yeah.” He palmed Coben’s buttocks and rotated the flesh, stretching his cleft, then bunching the soft orbs around his cock. “Does your ass feel well and truly fucked?” “Do you even need to ask?” Edward kind of chuckled as he began to withdraw. Coben held his breath. He enjoyed this bit, the feel of a sated cock slipping from his body. Once the length had popped out, he exhaled a long, low breath. His brow was hot and his heart racing—he could hear the beat of his pulse in his ears. “Fuck, that was good,” Edward

said, flopping onto the bed with his feet on the floor. “Yeah, not bad for starters.” Coben leaned over him and pressed a kiss on his lips. “I might need a couple of minutes before the main course.” “That’s fine, we’re not in any rush.” “No, we’re not.” He gave a languid grin. Coben set about removing Edward’s boots and socks. He tugged off his trousers and folded them over the back of the chair. Aware of Edward watching his every move and his gaze following him around the room, Coben was also

conscious that Edward’s cock was at full hardness again and tapping his belly. Turning to the bed, enjoying the attention, he peeled off his t-shirt. He tensed his abs, knowing he looked good. He was a man in the prime of his life. At optimum fitness. His strength had been honed in the gym and he was a skilled fighter, marksman and computer software expert. “Gonna miss that sight,” Edward said, running his gaze from the tip of Coben’s head to his toes, hovering his attention on his cock. “Yeah, I know what you mean?” Coben gave Edward, who was only halfnaked, the same languid once-over. Edward tapped the bed. “Come

here, big boy.” Coben didn’t need asking twice. He slipped into Edward’s embrace, settled his face by his neck and breathed in his delicious sex-sweat smell. Edward tangled their legs together and stroked down the gutter of Coben’s spine, tapping over each vertebrae as though memorizing every detail. “You excited about getting on with your new life?” “Yeah, it will be cool.” Coben hesitated. “To be my own boss, not have to answer to anyone. Forgotten what that’s like.” Edward huffed. “I still say it’s a loss for the Air Force.” He paused. “And me.”

“I know, but…” “Yeah, yeah, you’ve given Queen and Country your best years and now you want to go it alone.” “I can make it work.” Coben propped onto his elbow. “Cyber security is big business now, what with all the hacking and the threats from terror organizations and—” “I get it, Cobe. Believe me, I get it…” He ran his hand over Coben’s head as though soothing him. “And I know you’ll be in demand, crazy fucking demand because of your experience. You’ll have the upper edge on all those other techno geeks out there because you’re ex-military.” “Are you calling me a geek?”

Coben pulled a mock angry expression. “Might be?” Coben reared up, then flung himself on top of Edward, grabbing his wrists and pinning them over his head. Their cocks pressed against each other. A flash of excitement passed over Edward’s face and he parted his lips as air huffed from his lungs. Coben knew Edward could have a damn good go at shaking him off, but he didn’t think his lover wanted him to go anywhere. “How many geeks can pin down big, bad SAS men?” “Only you.” “Yeah, and don’t you forget it.” Coben dipped his head and kissed him.

He was enjoying having Edward beneath him—hot, sexy, tough Edward all surrendered and pliant. As they kissed, their shafts swelled against each other. Coben rocked his hips. Edward groaned into his mouth. “I’m gonna fuck you now,” Coben said, then tugged Edward’s bottom lip with his teeth. “Mmm…” Edward smiled. Coben released him. “Do it,” Edward said. “Lube’s here.” He shifted his arms. Coben unpinned his wrists and sat back on his haunches, between Edward’s legs. Edward slipped his hand beneath

the pillow and retrieved the lube. He passed it to Coben, a look of barely controlled patience on his face. Coben wasn’t feeling very patient himself. But he didn’t want to rush this —it was too special. He hooked his hands beneath Edward’s thick thighs, the right of which was heavy with tattoo, and parted his legs wider. Edward curled forward and took his own cock in his hand, began to slowly work his shaft. Coben adored watching Edward touch himself—the way his big fingers curled around his thick girth, how the tendons in his wrists shifted beneath the skin, the blocks of muscles rippling in his belly.

Quickly Coben coated the tips of his fingers with lube. He lifted Edward’s weighty balls upward, then skimmed over his hole. “Yes,” Edward hissed, shutting his eyes. He clenched his teeth and a muscle flexed in his jaw. Coben sought purchase, then eased into the dark heat. “More…” Edward demanded. “More…” He added another finger, loving seeing how Edward opened for him. “I will always have more for you.” “We both know…that’s not true.” Edward opened his eyes. “This is it. This, now…” Coben tried to ignore the stab of

pain in his heart. He didn’t want this moment spoiled by remembering it was their last night together. “Shh…” He frowned. “Just lie back and enjoy.” Edward did as instructed. He relaxed his shoulders onto the bed again and his head melted against the pillow. Coben set up a steady rhythm, fucking him with his fingers and being sure to swipe over his prostate on each ride inward. Edward groaned as a tremor trekked over his body. His knees tightened against Coben’s torso. Coben’s cock was hard and needy. As he continued to work Edward he slathered some lube over his own glans. He was becoming eager for the main

event. He wanted to be inside Edward, feel him hugging his erection, gripping his root, noose-like. He wanted to see his face, for the last time, as he penetrated to full depth. He pushed another finger into the gripping hole. Edward groaned and tossed his head left to right. A coil of lust unwound within Coben and he pushed in faster, harder, knuckle deep. “Ah fuck…” Edward said, screwing up his nose. “Get in me. Fuck, I don’t want to come with your fingers.” He stared at Coben. “I want to come with your fucking cock.” “Yes.” Coben withdrew. He

quickly shuffled so his cock was lined up with Edward’s hole. Edward drew up his legs, clutching the back of his thighs and tilting his pelvis. The tip of Coben’s slippery cock took aim. Then he slid forward a fraction, relishing the almost impossibly tiny space he was about to ram into. “Do it.” He did. He forged forward, opening Edward around his meaty shaft. The head of his dick disappearing from view. He didn’t pause. He rammed to full depth until their balls slapped together. “Argh…” Edward arched his neck and cried out. “Argh…”

Coben quickly whacked his left hand over Edward’s mouth. “Shh… fucking hell, shut up.” Edward stared up at him, his mouth parted behind Coben’s palm, the echoes of the cry trapped. His eyes were wide. Coben smiled, but it was strained. The temptation to just tip into a wild, animalistic fuck was almost too much. “You gonna be quiet?” Edward nodded and shut his eyes. When Coben removed his hand he was panting hard. “So…fucking…good.” “Yes…” Coben withdrew a little, then smoothed back in. A groan rumbled up from Edward’s chest but he kept it contained.

“That’s it,” Coben soothed. “Just feel, just enjoy. No rush.” “No rush.” Edward reached for Coben. He pulled him into a kiss and held him close. Coben rocked his hips, loving the feeling of being so deep, of having Edward’s arms and legs wrapped around him. They were almost one person. So close, so together. On and on they kissed, fucked, cocks straining as they held back orgasm. Coben felt like his balls were on fire and as though his skin was alive with hungry need for Edward. He could feel Edward’s cock trapped between their abdomens. It was stiff and bloated, craving release.

“It’s time to come,” he said. “I can’t…keep it…in…” “Me neither…come.” Again Edward clasped Coben’s face, holding him still and staring into his eyes. “Come, come in me. Claim me forever.” Those words were Coben’s undoing. Cum gushed from him into Edward. He withdrew, barged back in. More release emptied from him. Ropes of cum slicked between them—Edward’s undoing. They fed off each other, swallowed each other’s moans and grunts of ecstasy. Clung with more fervor to shoulders and faces, limbs tangling with torsos. Coben had never felt so happy. He’d never felt so sad.

How could this be the end? How could this sweet sin be so wrong they had to throw in the towel on their relationship? He shut his eyes and held back a tear. This was it. By the time he’d caught his breath the bliss of being inside Edward, the man he’d loved for the last year, would have come to an end. They’d part. Forever. And forever was a long fucking time.

Chapter One Five Years Later Sian I took a sip of champagne and looked at my husband across the crowded room. He was so damn handsome in the new black suit he’d bought last week. It was different to his others, tapered legs, which made him appear even taller than he was, and a smart, fashionable single-breasted button-up. He glanced at me. His gaze held mine for a moment, letting me know he

was thinking of me even though he was schmoozing with customers. Then he gave the briefest of smiles and carried on a serious-looking conversation. I turned back to Mable Stern, the wife of a man I knew could not only be good for business but was also very chatty. She had lipstick on her teeth and I was struggling not to stare at it. I’d also swept my tongue over my own teeth several times, hoping I didn’t have the same problem. Why should I? I didn’t usually have that issue. “So Rome was absolutely fabulous, darling,” she said to me. “But of course you have to watch where you wander. Can be pretty ropey in some of those backstreets. Wouldn’t want to

come face-to-face with an Italian mobster now, would you?” “No, absolutely not.” Again I glanced across the room. I didn’t worry about walking in dark alleys, not since I’d been married. My husband was tough as nails and, despite the cultured veneer, he could be rough when he needed to be. A shiver went up my spine. Damn he’d been hot and rough in bed last week, when we’d been in that London hotel on our third anniversary. I’d asked him to tie me up, spank my ass, come on my breasts. Sure we’d both had our fill of a very nice Malbec, but still, I’d felt it all, been utterly thrilled by it all. He’d let a sexual beast out to play that I feared he so often kept hidden and I couldn’t

have been happier. I glanced at him again. He was deep in discussion. No doubt chatting about a new contract he had in Saudi Arabia that was taking up a lot of his time. He was hoping to recruit a couple of new assistants to do the legwork and take some of the pressure off. That would also mean he could move on to his next big project. Who would have thought beneath that polite smile was a man with so many layers? He had so much hunger, desire. His passion for me blew me away sometimes; it was as if we were on a permanent honeymoon, never getting our fill of each other—never fucking, coming, devouring each other

enough. “I’m just going to powder my nose,” Mable said, resting her fingers on my forearm. “Yes, of course.” I bit my bottom lip, preventing myself from adding, “look in the mirror, please.” She wandered off, a little wobbly. She’d had a sherry too many perhaps. I spied the buffet and my stomach gave a pang of longing. I’d been inking all day and only managed an egg-andbacon Subway at about eleven. I weaved my way through the room, pausing briefly when a passing waiter offered to top up my flute. The bubbles popped and fizzed over the rim, dampening my hand. I smiled my thanks.

Smoked salmon called to me and I helped myself to a sliver on a thin slice of rye bread and let the flavors spread on my tongue. “Hey, gorgeous.” Thick arms wrapped around my waist and a stubbled chin scratched against my temple. “Hey,” I said, pressing my ass into my husband’s groin. “Are you getting on okay with your…diplomacy?” “It’s all good. Some great guys here to connect with.” “That’s what it’s all about.” I reached for a chunk of cheese and popped it into my mouth. “It is. But it’s work and I can’t wait to be off duty.”

“Oh yeah?” “Yeah, because then it’s us time.” “I like the sound of that.” He pressed a quick kiss to the curve of my jawline, then released me, stepped back. “Sian, how is the buffet, my dear?” Mable had returned, luckily minus the lipstick on her teeth. “It’s good, very good.” I smiled. She looked between me and my husband with an expectant expression on her face. “Oh, I’m sorry,” I said, “please let me introduce you. This is my husband, Coben Wright. Coben, this is Mable Stern.”

She tilted her chin and nodded. “Of course, yes, very pleased to meet you, Mr. Wright.” “Please, Coben is fine.” He gave one of his most charming smiles and reached for her hand. He drew it to his mouth and swept a light kiss on her knuckles. Mable all but simpered. She fluttered her eyelashes and jigged from one foot to the other. “Oh,” she said. “Well…yes, lovely.” She glanced to her right. “Please, I must introduce you to Harold. I know he’s dying to meet you.” She withdrew her hand and clutched it to her chest as though holding the sensation of Coben’s lips within her fist.

“That would be wonderful.” Coben held out the crook of his arm, offering it to Mable. She took it, still beaming. Coben glanced briefly at me, then led the way to Mable’s husband. I watched them go, pleased. Harold Stern was someone Coben had been hoping to get on familiar terms with. Mr. Stern had a new branch of his business being set up in Abu Dhabi that would no doubt need expert cyber security. A service Coben could offer. I helped myself to another piece of salmon, then spotted the wife of one of Coben’s employees. She was tapping away on her iPhone but must have sensed me looking her way because she

glanced up, smiled. I headed over and we were soon lost in a conversation about the best all-inclusive resorts in the Maldives—somewhere I was dying to go. I didn’t notice the time slipping away and before I knew it Coben and I were in the car heading home. “How did it go with Harold Stern?” I asked, resting my hand on Coben’s thigh the way I often did when he was driving. I liked to be touching him whenever I could. “Great,” he said, nodding. “He’s very interested in what we can offer him.” “He’s a smart guy.” “Well, let’s just say he’s in the

know about what threats he’s up against. He’s also heard good things about us, which is a big plus.” “Yes, word of mouth is what it’s all about. You’re not exactly advertising in Metro.” “Seems the word is spreading. These events might be a bit boring for you to attend with me but they’re important for networking and getting the company out there.” “It’s not boring.” I squeezed his leg. “I enjoy seeing you in action.” He glanced my way, threw a sinful smile at me, then turned back to the road. “You’re going to witness some very hot action when we get home.” “I like the sound of that.” Feeling a

little emboldened by the champagne, I slid my hand up his leg and cupped his cock through the folds of his suit trousers. “Watch it,” he said, shifting on the seat. He was hardening beneath my hand. I adored that I had that effect on him. One touch, one suggestive remark, one lick of my lips and he was getting ready to go. I squeezed his shaft and ran my thumb over the outline of his cockhead. “Babe,” he said, reaching for my wrist and tugging me away. “Spoil sport.” I huffed. He chuckled. “Not that I don’t adore your hands on me, but remember

when we got carried away that time, coming back from your mother’s?” “How could I forget?” I licked my lips, recalling how I’d gone down on him while he was driving. He’d been so hard, and it had felt so naughty. “I nearly killed us both.” He drew my hand to his mouth and kissed my knuckles. “Worse ways to go but hey… it’s not our time yet.” I folded my arms and pressed my fingers into my armpits. He was right. But I didn’t trust myself not to touch him again if I kept my hand on his thigh. Thank goodness we were only a few miles from home. **** Coben opened the door and

flicked on the hall light. I stepped in behind him and kicked off my heels. There was a sudden bang. A slam. He’d pushed the door up, hard. “Cobe—” His lips were over mine, his hands in my hair. The cool wall pressed against my shoulders as he backed me up. I swept my tongue into his mouth, giving as good as he gave. Damn the taste of him, the urgency flowing off him in waves. It was enough to make my knickers wet and my nipples peak against the inside of my bra. “Tease,” he said, kissing over my cheek, then nibbling my earlobe.

“I’m not…” I gasped as I clung to his biceps. Through his jacket I could feel they were tense, bulging. “I didn’t touch you again in the car.” “Just by being there, next to me…” He paused as he cupped my right breast. “Just by wearing this sexy fucking dress you’ve teased me all evening.” “What this tatty old thing?” I grinned, then groaned as he massaged my breast—not hard, but not gently either, just the way he knew I liked. “Well if it’s that old and tatty it should come off.” He stooped, gripped the hem, then pulled it up. Luckily there was no zip and the material slid easily over my head. He tossed it over his shoulder and

it landed half on the floor, half draped over a potted plant that stood in a large burgundy vase. “Fuck…” he muttered, his attention landing on the new cerise underwear I’d opted to wear beneath the tight black dress. “That’s so fucking hot.” He kissed me again, pushing his erection against my belly. I had the feeling the underwear wouldn’t be staying on for long. His touch skimmed down my sides, dipping into my waist, then over the slight flare of my hips. My skin felt on fire, his palms leaving a trail of need and delicious sensation. I wanted him to touch me, all over, and never stop.

I pushed at his jacket, shoving it over his shoulders. He released me, shrugged out of it and let it land on the floor, instantly forgotten despite its price tag. The next thing I knew I was in his arms, pressed up against his chest, and he was marching up the staircase. I stared at his face. He had a look of sheer determination. Like a predator who’d captured his prey. A Neanderthal who’d snared his woman. He kicked the door to the bedroom open and dropped me on the bed. I bounced and let out a squeal. “Strip,” he said, undoing his belt and quickly skimming it free of the loops. “Now.”

I undid my bra and tossed it aside. Rolled down the sinfully thin bit of fabric that was my thong and kicked it to the floor. I scooted up the bed and rested my head on the pillow. Anticipation was making my skin tingle and my breaths come fast. He swept his tongue over his bottom lip and stepped out of his trousers. “Spread your legs, woman.” I raised my eyebrows. God, I loved that demanding, sergeant major tone of his. It went straight to my core and stimulated something very deep and primitive inside me. I couldn’t help but obey. I parted my legs, slowly, letting my heels skim over the satin sheet and

feeling cool air wash over my damp pussy. He kept his attention on the juncture of my thighs as he calmly released the buttons on his dress shirt. His pulse was pushing at the skin on his neck, beating to a fast tempo and giving away the extent of his arousal despite his controlled appearance. “Fuck, how did I get so lucky?” he muttered, quietly, almost to himself. “I feel the same.” I smiled and cupped my breasts, trapped my nipples between my fingers and tugged them. He discarded his shirt, then shoved at his boxers. His cock sprang forward, erect and the flesh a few shades darker than that on the rest of his

body. My mouth watered; it was like a Pavlov reaction. I hoped he’d want oral. I adored having his cock in my mouth. “You want this?” he asked, wrapping his hand around his shaft and moving to the end of the bed. “Yes. All of it. All of you.” He gave me a wicked smile. “Good, ’cause you’re going to get it.” He crawled between my legs, his body low, and settled his face over my pussy. He pulled in a deep breath, his eyes fluttering shut for a moment. “Fuck, you smell so ready for it.” “I am.” I reached for his head and bucked my hips so my pussy met his mouth.

He set straight to work, slipping his tongue through my folds and finding my clit. He spun a circle over it with firm pressure. “Ahh, yeah…” I gasped, shutting my eyes. “That’s it.” He searched out my entrance and pushed one long finger into me. I clenched around him. I was wet and hot, needy for something to fill me. He pushed another finger in, upped the force on my clit. My stomach muscles tightened. A delicious throbbing of want, the spark of what would be a climax, came to life in my pelvis. “Yes…yes…” I said, scooping him closer by wrapping my legs around his shoulders. I had him

trapped against my pussy. “So greedy,” he murmured, his breaths hot over my flesh. “Greedy for you.” I sank onto the invasion. “More, give me more.” He shifted, his big body easily removing my legs from his shoulders, and sat back on folded legs, his fingers still lodged inside me. “More?” “Yes…” I drew up my knees, utterly wanton now. “Mmm,” he said, raising his eyebrows. “Maybe more means here.” With his free hand he skimmed his fingers over my anus. “Fuck.” I gasped. “You want fucking here?” He pushed knuckle deep into my pussy and

at the same time exerted steady pressure over the center of my pucker. “No, yes…” I tossed my head from side to side. “Which is it?” “I don’t know. Do what you need to.” God, I wanted it all. My clit was humming. I reached down and stroked it to keep the climax building. “Of course you know what you want. Tell me.” “Come, I want to come.” “With me in your pussy or your ass, babe?” He gently slipped the tip of his finger through my sphincter. “I…” Fuck, I couldn’t answer questions at this moment in time. That dark invasion, it was so erotic,

forbidden but delicious. I craved it. He eased in a little more. Oh God. Both holes. Fantasy land. I groaned and sped up my ministrations on my clit. “You want both. Say it.” His voice held a note of excitement, less calm than it had been. “You want to get fucked in both holes at the same time, don’t you.” He paused, then chuckled. “Dirty girl. I knew I married you for a reason.” “I want to come…” “You will, but tell me, how am I going to fuck you in both holes when I only have one dick?” “Maybe…we should…clone you.” I was breathless, the pressure mounting. “So there are…two of you.”

“I guess that would work.” He slid higher into my ass and also pushed deeper into my pussy. “Except by the time they can do that we’ll be too old to fuck.” “No, never too old.” “Let’s hope not. But…” “But what?” “Maybe I should get us a male prostitute, hired cock, so you could get fucked by two hot guys. One in your cunt and one in your ass. How does that sound?” “I…I…” How did that sound? Like all my Christmases and birthdays come at once. “Good, good, amazing… fuck I’m going to come…” It was there, a vat of bliss about to overspill. I’d

wanted to wait for dick but it seemed that wasn’t going to happen. I’d gone past the point of return. “Yeah, come. I love watching you come.” He was fucking me with his fingers, front and back hole. I was on fire, full up. It was all going to explode. “Me and you and a sexy man with a big, hard dick…” he said, his voice deep and laced with wicked imagery. “Can you imagine that? Four hands, two mouths, two cocks, all worshiping you, Sian? You’d love it. You’d be writhing between us, your body so full of us, stuffed with dick that’s hard just for you…” “Oh, God…” I groaned, hanging

on to the last moment before I climaxed. “We’d be a tangled, sweaty mess. So much lust, passion, barely able to control our orgasms.” “I can’t…control…mine.” I came. A wondrous release that burst from my clit, pulsed through my pussy and spread around my ass. The orgasm didn’t end there. It rattled up my spine and I bowed my back as it settled at my nape. From there it went to the tips of my fingers and the ends of my toes and I clenched my fists and curled my feet. “Ah yeah,” he said, still pushing in and out of me. “Go, babe…” Moist noises, my cum clacking around his fingers, filtered to my ears. I sucked in air, my breasts jutting, and

allowed the relief of the climax to seep into my muscles. Relaxing me, making me flop on the bed, my legs now slack and wide. He slowed, then stopped, still lodged high. “I fucking love watching you come.” “Good…” I opened my eyes. “Because…I love coming…with you watching.” He was staring at my pussy, at where he was double penetrating me. His mouth was a little parted, his brow creased. “What?” I asked. “What’s the matter?” “Nothing.” He shook his head. “Just wish I could give you the fantasy.

The two cocks.” “Well, maybe we’ll get a toy or something.” I squirmed. “But let’s talk about that after you’ve fucked me. Your dick looks ready to explode.” He pulled from my ass, then my pussy. Rested over me, arms locked and cock directed at my entrance. I adored this moment. I’d just come, but having my husband primed and ready to plunge had another tremble of longing blasting though me. He pushed forward, perfect aim. I hooked my ankles behind his thighs and tilted my pelvis. He smoothed in. I was wet and supple, but it was still a tight fit. When he was this hard he was the biggest guy

I’d ever been with. But we went together well. Two perfect pieces of our own sexy jigsaw. But another man…in my…? “Coben…” I said. “Would it… work?” I’d had to pause to concentrate on relaxing to accommodate the last few inches of him. “What do you mean?” He gritted his teeth as his balls pressed up against me. “Me and you and another guy?” I ran my hands up his biceps and held his shoulders. “Guess we’d have to try it.” He stared at me. His eyes glazed with desire. “But…?” Was he being serious? Probably. We’d known from the start of

our relationship that we were both pretty liberal when it came to sex. “Who?” “Someone we could trust.” “Yes…” I held my breath as he pressed his body over my sensitive clit. “And hot.” “So hot,” he said. “Someone really fucking hot.” “Would you…?” I paused, remembering something he’d told me late one night, in the dark—a secret whisper, a confession I’d prized from him. “What?” He pulled almost out, then smoothed back in. He wasn’t frantic, like I’d been, but in control, in the moment and apparently enjoying each tiny sensation.

“Would you touch him too?” “Guess it would be hard not to.” One side of his mouth tipped into a grin and he held my gaze. There was a teasing look in his eyes. “And…” Fuck. Was I really going to say this? Yes. Go for it. “And what?” He reached full depth, then pushed in more, shifting us both up the bed. I panted out a breath. “And would you…kiss him?” He bit his bottom lip. I stared at his mouth. A mouth I knew had kissed another man once upon a time because he’d told me so. A man he’d felt something for, sexually.

“Kiss…” he repeated, a muscle flexing in his jaw. “Yes, would you kiss him?” I hesitated. “Because that would be incredible to see you do that.” “You think?” He dipped his head and pressed his lips to mine. “Yes.” I spoke against his mouth. “The three of us, kissing, fucking, you and him connected too…” He pulled in a sharp breath, then groaned. Oh, he liked that dirty talk! “Yes, all of us,” I carried on, “cocks, pussy all fucking, penetrating, coming. Everyone kissing and not knowing where one person ends and the others begin.”

“Jesus, Sian…” He set up a wild pace, fucking me with vigor. His face was shiny with sweat. The tendons in his neck stood proud. I wasn’t going to come again, but seeing him orgasm like this, with a head full of a threesome fantasy, was as good as any climax. “Urgh…” He spurted into me, blasting out his release. I held him tight, locked him to me. My heart was racing as pleasure zipped around my body. He was so hard, concrete-like, inside me. Heat pulsed into my pussy and I gripped his shoulders, imagining that I was holding him together in this moment of coming undone. This was what we were, two

halves, souls connected. We had a bond that would be there for all eternity. “Fuck, fuck, fuck…” He gasped and slowed. “Your cunt is so hot and tight.” “Dirty soldier mouth,” I said, holding him closer still and kissing the angle of his jaw. “It’s a good job I’ve had endurance training, woman. You’d kill off a meeker, smaller man.” “Nothing meek or small about you.” I clenched my pussy around his cock. As he moaned he kissed me again, smoothing his palm over my hair and pushing the damp strands back from my face.

“You enjoyed the dirty talk,” I asked, a smile spreading. “Thoughts of another man with us?” “You look so sweet but say such filth.” He matched my grin and I could feel it against my lips. “But you didn’t answer my question.” My heart was still triptrapping along. I was pushing him. I knew I was. This conversation was exciting, though, new. And we thrived off new. “What?” Oh, he knew what. He might be a burly fighting machine but he had brain cells between his cute ears. His company success was proof of that. “The other guy…” I paused.

“Would you kiss him?” He gave me an infuriatingly cocky smile. “Why do you want to know so bad?” “I just do.” He shook his head, just a little. “I should never have told you about kissing Matthew Henley back in college, should I?” “Oh, yes you should have, it’s hot. I like to think of it sometimes.” I traced my fingers over his plump lips. “Guys think two girls together are hot. It’s the same for women, you know. We think two men together are sexy.” A flash of surprise went over his eyes. “Really?” “Yeah, really. Tell me more. Did

you use tongues? Would you use tongues on our imaginary man?” Coben was silent, but I could sense his mind whirring. I felt brave. “Would you touch him, his chest, his belly, his ass…his cock.” “Sian…” “What? I’m curious. You just made me come thinking about a threesome. I want to know exactly what you were thinking about when you came.” “Yes.” “Yes, you would?” I asked, trying to keep my voice neutral. He sighed and pulled out. He flopped to the mattress and scooped me close.

“Probably, if…” “You’d kiss him if…?” He was silent. “If he was hot. Which we’ve already said he is.” I spread my hand over his stomach, flattening my palm over his navel. “Then you’d kiss him.” “If you’d like that.” “Hey.” I skimmed my hand upward and tickled his ribs. He squirmed. “You’d like that, Coben. Don’t deny it.” I kissed his right nipple. “I know you better than you know yourself. A sexy, willing guy in bed with us would totally do it for you.” “Mmm…” He cupped my chin and stretched to capture my mouth. “Perhaps

you do know me better than I thought.” We kissed and I conjured an image in my mind of another mouth joining us. Kissing Coben, then me, swapping flavors between all of us, no rules, just pleasure, touching, exploring. I’d be surrounded by muscle, filled with cock. Maybe I’d masturbate and watch the men kiss. Perhaps Coben would shove his cock in my mouth as the faceless man fucked me hard from behind. Both holding me tight as they drove into me. And when I was exhausted, if they weren’t spent…then what? Would they fuck each other? I broke the kiss and looked into Coben’s eyes. I wished I knew what was going on in that head of his. Was it the

same things going through mine? Was he imagining being with another man? “We should go to the beach next weekend,” he said. “What?” A sag of disappointment went through me and I averted my gaze, stared at the tattoo I’d given him four years ago. It was a bird with a medal pinned to its breast and sat below his right collarbone. “The beach. The weather is supposed to be great.” “Yes, okay.” I rested my cheek in the groove between his shoulder and neck. “That would be nice.” He kissed the top of my head and sighed. “It’s going to be a good summer. I can tell.”

“Of course it will be.” His heart was slowing, returning to normal as quickly as usual. He was so damn fit. “As long as we’re together it will be good.” “We’ll always be together. Nothing will ever change that.” He held me a little closer and trapped my legs between his. I sighed, content and sated, and shut my eyes.

Chapter Two “Hey, Sian, your eleven o’clock is here,” Drake called. “Okay.” I took a last sip of tea, then swiped cherry balm over my lips. “Just coming.” I had a full day of inking. Clients booked in back-to-back. Which was tiring but good. It meant the time would fly plus it secured my place at Dragon’s Ink all the more. Something I had to think about in a male dominated workplace. I was good, damn good, but it didn’t hurt to be in demand and for my boss, Drake, to know it. I wandered into the tattoo parlor. The ceiling lights were bright and the

walls covered in pictures of our best body art. Several workstations were lined up with large leather chairs and sterile tables that held needles, guns and ink. Beyond the two large windows Londoners rushed by, intent on their business, and the sun streamed in. “Hi,” I said, holding out my hand to a big guy with super-short hair who stood by the reception desk. He had a silvery scar down his left cheek. “Are you Ed Mooreland?” “Yep, that’s me.” He took my hand and gave me a quick glance over. “Great to meet you.” “Not had a woman ink me before.” He hooked his thumbs into his jeans pockets. The material was worn and the

waistband sat low on his hips. “But I guess it’ll be okay.” “She’s one of the best we’ve got.” Drake walked past and rested his hand on my shoulder. “You’re in good hands with Sian.” “I’m sure I am.” The right side of Ed’s mouth twitched. He pulled a folded piece of paper from his back pocket. “I spoke to someone on the phone.” “Yep, that was me.” Drake nodded. “It’s just this, added into an existing tat.” He passed the scrap of paper to me. I unfolded it. Printed on it was a bird, wings outstretched. At the center of its chest was a medal. It reminded me of

Coben’s tattoo, though the medal was a different shape and with horizontal lines on it. “You military?” I asked. “Yes, ma’am.” He smiled, quick and easy, and flicked his gaze at the picture. “That gonna be okay for you?” “No problem. Come this way?” I handed the picture to Drake for stenciling, turned, then led the way to my workstation. I was aware of Ed close behind me. He was tall, wide too. His shadow stretched out and engulfed mine. “We’re just here.” I indicated my leather couch, then moved to the sink to wash my hands. “Where’s this bird going to live?” “On my thigh.”

Lucky bird. “Okay.” I glanced at his legs and smiled. “Better get your skin out, then.” He popped open the buttons on his denims and pushed them down his legs, toed off his deck shoes and stepped out of them completely. He wore tight black briefs that left nothing to the imagination and I couldn’t help but be impressed as he shook out his jeans and laid them on the end of the bench. Sure I was married, very happily, but a girl could admire a handsome man. I cleared my throat. “Quite an impressive…tattoo you’ve already got going on there.” “Thanks.” He rubbed his right thigh. It was full of black swirls, an

intricate web of images with a few letters and words thrown in. “I’ve been cultivating it for a while.” “I can tell.” I pulled on black sterile gloves. “Hop up.” In one smooth movement he maneuvered onto the bench. He then clasped his hands behind his head and stretched out his legs. His t-shirt drifted upward, exposing a flat belly with a fan of dark hair disappearing into his briefs. He set his attention on me and swiped his tongue over his bottom lip. Fuck, the guy was so damn confident. He was gorgeous in a roughand-ready, down-and-dirty kind of way, but seriously, he had coolness written all over him. I wasn’t complaining. Having

a hot military bloke to ink for a few hours was much better than some whiny creep who’d saved up his benefit money for a coy carp on his ass. “You want the same colors as the picture?” I asked, taking a seat on my stool and scooting into position. Drake set the picture and the tracing down on my table. “Yep.” I studied the picture. “Same shading?” “Yep.” I looked up at him. His hair was black, so were his eyebrows and lashes, though his eyes were stunning blue. Very different to Coben’s softer more muted coloring. My husband had sandy blond

hair and hazel eyes. He had plumper lips too, more mobile when he spoke. My belly tightened as I thought of Coben and the fun we’d had the night before. Damn he’d used his mouth well. Plus I’d loved talking dirty to him, creating a fantasy about another man joining us. Touching us. Fucking. This guy would definitely fit into the definition of hot, but the trouble was he oozed testosterone. I shouldn’t imagine he had a gay or even bi bone in his body. Ed bent his leg and I looked at the thick black hairs on his shin that lessened toward his knee. I took out a razor and carefully shaved over the patch of skin that was unmarked. Would Ed be the sort of guy Coben

would go for in a threesome? Would a hot, muscled military man do it for him? Yank his chain, press his buttons? “What do you think?” Ed asked, indicating the blank space on the outer section of his thigh that I’d just made hair free. “Should fit okay, yeah?” I placed the tracing over it. “Perfect.” I set to work, creating an outline of the picture. “So what you in? Army?” “RAF.” “Enjoy it?” I noticed a sword with wings nestled within his existing tattoo. I should have guessed he was in the Air Force. “Pays the bills.” He huffed. I glanced up at him. “Easier ways

to pay the bills.” “Yeah, not as much fun, though.” He moved his hands and rubbed the scar on his cheek. “You like your job?” “Yeah. Keeps me out of trouble.” He smirked. “I’m sure a good girl like you wouldn’t get into trouble.” “Well, at one time I was a magnet for it, but now…” I turned and reached for my gun, set the tip of the needle over the beak of the bird. “Now I’m a married woman I’m a good girl.” “Ah you’ve been captured by some lucky sod.” “Well, I’m pleased to say he thinks he’s lucky.” “I’m sure he does.” “You ready?”

“Yep.” I flicked a switch and the steady hum and familiar vibration of the gun started. I pressed it onto his flesh. Most people jumped or at least flinched but Ed didn’t, and I wasn’t surprised. Coben hadn’t flinched either, that first day I’d met him and tattooed his bird. But then that’s what these military guys were like. They weren’t fazed by a needle, not when they’d gotten used to facing Taliban snipers before breakfast. I wiped away the excess ink and, pleased with the first few lines, glanced over the rest of his tat. There was a crest, a crown, a few letters—M and D linked. Beneath a swirl, Maori-style, was the letter C and a cracked heart. The

head and neck of a woman sat beneath a ribbon with Queen and Country written on it. The woman faded at a generous cleavage and melted into more swirls that led to a rose stem. “Going to be full soon, this thigh,” I said. “What’s it all about?” “Everything on there means something to me. Reminds me of a passion, a commitment, or an adventure I’ve had.” “And this bird? What does that mean?” I set the needle back on his skin. “I’m afraid that’s classified.” I glanced up at him. “Really?” He must be joking. He shrugged, though a grin played with his mouth. “Yes, ma’am.”

“Go on, tell me.” “Nope, sorry.” “You in the Secret Service or FBI or something?” “If I was American I might be.” He chuckled. “I guess I watch too much TV.” I resumed inking his skin. “Get confused about what’s American and what’s British.” “I can see how that would happen.” Again I wiped at the bird that was now taking shape. “So what are you doing while you’re on leave? Other than getting tats, that is?” “Family duties. Got to be the good godson while I’m in town.”

“Ah, I get you. Have you got long off?” “Long enough.” “You can’t tell me, right?” I shook my head and grinned. He shrugged and bit down on his bottom lip. My mobile phone rang and the vibration mode caused it to jiggle on the chrome tray. It flashed up with the word HUBBY—something Coben had added when we’d been on honeymoon and delighting that we would call each other husband and wife. “Excuse me,” I said, “I need to get that.” “Go ahead.” I peeled off my right glove and

answered the phone. “Hey, you.” “What you up to? Busy?” “Yep, just in the middle of a design.” I cocked my head and studied the bird’s wings—they were coming on well, the feathers neat and lifelike. “I won’t keep you, then, babe, just want to make sure you’ll be in at a reasonable time.” “I expect so. Why?” “We’ve been invited out to dinner. Harold Stern just called.” “Really? That’s good news.” “It certainly bodes well for some pretty serious after-dinner conversations about what we can do for his business.” “Yes, I agree. Where are we going?”

“It’s just at his home. He said he’s got a few friends and family coming and his wife mentioned how much she’d enjoyed your company the other night and did we want to go along.” “Wow, even better and she’s sweet, interesting too and well traveled.” I glanced up at my client. His keen eyes were studying me. “Listen, I really should go. I’ll be home by six thirty. Is that okay?” “Perfect. See you later, gorgeous.” I hung up and pulled on a fresh glove. “Sounds like you’ve got plans for tonight now,” Ed said, absently rubbing at his flat belly. A slight grin played with the corner of his mouth. “Something fun?

Something to keep you out of trouble?” “Well…” I said, studying the claws on the picture. “I could tell you but then I’d have to kill you.” He laughed—a deep rumble of a sound that echoed around the room and was full of humor. “It’d be fun to see you try.” **** After Ed’s tat I saw three more clients. All easy stuff, one a Disney character, another a heart with an arrow through the center and one of Japanese writing that took longer to ensure that it meant what the customer thought it did than to actually ink. I made it a rule to always check the meaning of any foreign word before I made it permanent on

someone’s body. I wandered through the front door just after six thirty and, obviously keen, Coben was already showered and ready to go out. He wore black smart trousers and had teamed it with a pale gray shirt left undone on the top few buttons. He managed to look smart and casual and he smelled divine. “I won’t be long,” I said, dumping my bag on the side cabinet. He glanced at his watch. “We’ve got an hour till we need to be there and it’s only a fifteen-minute cab ride.” “Good, I’ll wash my hair.” I ran a hand through my curls. I’d feel much better, more like I’d dressed up, if I shampooed and blow dried.

After dashing upstairs and stripping off I stepped into the shower. I used floral shampoo and conditioner and strawberry soap, enjoying the sweet scents swirling in the steam. Wrapped in a towel, I stared at the contents of my wardrobe. What to wear to a formal dinner in an elegant couple’s home? I pulled a red silk blouse and a black pencil skirt from their hangers and laid them on the bed. I’d team the outfit with killer heels and a long pearl necklace to add some glamour to the look. Quickly, I applied a slick of body moisturizer and pulled on black satin underwear. The thong wouldn’t give me a panty line and the bra would look sexy

if it were just visible through the sheer blouse. “Phew, now I wish we had several hours until we were going out.” Coben stood in the doorway, his shoulder bunched on the frame and one leg crossed casually over the other, the toe of his polished shoe resting on the floor. “No time for any of that,” I said, smiling and tugging the towel that was wrapped around my hair. “Not even a quickie.” “But later there will be time for anything we fancy.” He licked his lips. “And until then I’m going to enjoy knowing what you’re wearing beneath your clothes.” I traced the strap of my bra, then

brushed my hand over the smooth cup. “Good, that will make sure you hold that thought.” He grinned and looked at his watch. “I’ve just got to make a business phone call. See you downstairs in twenty?” “Yes, that should be fine.” He turned and stepped from the doorway. I stared at the space he’d occupied and my heart swelled with love. It hadn’t diminished. The intensity of my feelings for him, if anything, had grown. The more time we were together, the more I got to know him, understand him, the more I loved him, wanted him. He was the most amazing person I’d ever met.

And luckily it seemed he felt the same way about me. After drying my hair I piled it up high, securing it with long pins. A few tendrils escaped and I twisted them with my fingers, then applied spray. I kept my makeup minimal but was generous with the mascara and added lipstick to match the red blouse. Once dressed, I headed down the stairs, my high heels clacking on the wooden boards. On hearing me, Coben appeared from the lounge. He gave me yet another appreciative gaze, then grabbed his keys and wallet from the side cabinet. “Let’s hope we can find a cab.” I pulled a black shawl around my

shoulders. “I called one. It’s just pulled up.” He scooped up a bottle of wine wrapped in tissue paper from the side cabinet. “Oh, very efficient, wine and cab.” We went outside. It wasn’t dark yet but the sun had slipped behind the row of houses opposite and our street was bathed in shadows. The air temperature had dropped and I knew I’d be glad of my shawl later. Soon we were pulling up behind a sleek black motorbike parked outside a large townhouse in Kensington. The house was painted cream, had black wrought iron railings and a huge polished black door with a round brass

knocker. “Wow, must be at least four floors.” I glanced upward as I alighted the cab. “And with a basement,” Coben said, cupping my elbow in his palm and nodding at the windows tucked below path level and protected by the railings. “I love these Georgian houses. Maybe one day we…” “Yes, one day I’ll buy you one.” He pressed a quick kiss to my temple as we went up the four steps to the front door. “When I’ve made my million.” “Millions more like.” I laughed. “That’s how much these places cost.” “Mmm.” Coben banged the knocker three times, then straightened his

shirt. I shifted from one foot to the other and looked at our smudged reflections in the door. Suddenly it burst open. Harold Stern stood before us wearing a big smile and a blue shirt that was straining over his potbelly. “You found us. Jolly good,” he boomed, gesturing for us to enter. “Yes, no problem.” Coben stepped in and held out his hand. Harold shook it, still grinning. He shut the door. “I don’t believe we had the pleasure yesterday.” He looked at me. “This is my wife, Sian.” Coben smiled my way.

“Of course, it’s an absolute delight to meet you.” Harold gently squeezed my hand in his. “Mable is really looking forward to your company, dear.” “And I hers. Thank you for inviting us.” “I’m only sorry it was such short notice. But I really do want to pick your husband’s brains about a few matters. As long as you ladies can cope with some work talk.” “Doesn’t bother me in the slightest.” I slid my shawl from my shoulders. “And we do have a few other guests,” Harold said. “Mable’s niece is here. She’s visiting from Australia. My godson is also joining us.”

“Lovely.” I folded my shawl. “Here, let me take that.” Harold held out his hand. “I’ll pop it in my study.” He opened a door to his left and took the shawl from me. “In fact, before we start on the red, maybe I could just outline my plans with your husband.” He looked at Coben. “Good idea.” Coben nodded. I knew Coben would be pleased to get some of the groundwork of the business conversation over with so he could relax at dinner so I smiled my agreement. “Mable and Rachel are in the kitchen straight ahead.” Harold glanced at an open door at the end of the long hallway. Female voices were filtering

from it as was the heavenly smell of roasting lamb. “And please, help yourself to a drink from the drawing room. There’s champagne on ice, wine, gin and tonic, pretty much whatever you fancy.” He hesitated. “No, hang on, how rude, please let me…” “I’ll be fine. You carry on.” I smiled and touched his arm. “I’ll grab a glass of wine and see if I can be of help in the kitchen.” “Are you sure?” Harold asked uncertainly. “Yes.” Coben gave me a look that let me know he was grateful for my words. “Yes, of course.” I took the bottle of wine from him and stepped away.

For a moment the men were silent. Then I heard the study door shut. I wasn’t so precious that I needed a drink poured for me, and Mable was certainly easygoing and sweet. I was happy to find my way to her kitchen. The drawing room was a magnificent high-ceilinged room with a picture rail and several large still-life paintings on the walls. The marble fire surround was decadent and the two oversized sofas were red with cream stripes. To the right was a full drinks cabinet with a silver trolley on wheels set next to it and holding a bucket containing a bottle of champagne. To the left a large bay window offered views down to the road and was dressed with

heavy red curtains. Standing in the bay, with his back to me, was a man. He had broad shoulders, very short hair and wore dark denims and a black shirt. He appeared to be fiddling with his phone. I set the wine on the drinks cabinet. “Hello,” I said, wondering if this was Harold’s godson. He turned. “Ed.” I widened my eyes in surprise. I’d only bid goodbye to the man I’d drawn a bird on a few hours ago yet here he was. I didn’t think I’d ever see him again. A flicker of recognition crossed his eyes and he slipped his iPhone away. “Hey.” His face softened. “Fancy seeing

you here…Sian, right?” “Yes.” “You look beautiful.” “Thank you.” I felt a sizzle of heat travel over me. The appreciative glint in his eye couldn’t be missed. “How’s the new addition?” He rested his palm over his thigh, placing it where I knew there to be a small dressing. “Fine.” He gave a nonchalant shrug. “One of many.” He stepped up to me. “Can I get you a drink?” “White wine would be great. It’s been a long day.” “I’m sure you’re in demand at the parlor and I can see why. Your work is outstanding.”

“Thank you.” I flushed a little at the compliment. He poured chilled sauvignon into a cut crystal glass and handed it to me. “So this is the godson duty you mentioned, is it?” I took a sip and watched as he poured himself two fingers of brandy. “Yeah. I make a point of catching up with Harold and Mable when I’m in town. They were my parents’ best friends for over forty years and never having had any children of their own they’ve always been very generous with time and support to me and my brother.” “They’re really nice people. You’re lucky to have them watching over you.”

He sipped his drink, studying me. Now I felt stupid. He was a big, tough guy, military too. He didn’t exactly need an elderly couple looking over him. Not these days anyway. “It’s a beautiful street,” I said, gesturing to the window and stepping up to it. “Have they always lived here?” “For as long as I can remember. I used to play cowboys with my brother in the back garden, must have been about six or seven then.” He stood beside me, his shoulder almost level with my ear. He really was huge, a fraction taller than Coben and certainly a bit wider. Like Coben he smelled lovely, something spiced and rich, perhaps with a hint of sandalwood.

We watched a red Ferrari cruise past. “Nice car,” I said. “If you like that sort of thing.” “You’re not into vehicles? Most blokes are.” I glanced up at him. “My husband would love a Ferrari.” “I like vehicles plenty, just not cars.” He paused and glanced at the motorbike parked on the street. “Where is your husband? You forget to bring him?” A cheeky smirk crossed his face. “He’s just catching up with Harold about something, business stuff, you know.” “Oh, what’s he do for a living, then?” “Cyber security, Middle East is

his speciality.” Ed’s eyebrows raised slightly. “Sounds interesting.” “It keeps him very busy.” A noise in the hall caught my attention and I turned. The click of shoes on the floor grew louder. Coben appeared in the doorway. He stopped and scanned the room. His gaze settled briefly on me, then flicked to Ed. His mouth slackened for a second before squeezing into a straight line. He kept his attention firmly on the man at my side. Harold stepped past him and up to the drinks cabinet. “Coben, old fellow, what are you drinking?”

Coben said nothing. It was as if he’d been rooted to the floor. His eyes flashed and his hands curled into fists. What the hell is the matter with him? “Coben? Drink?” Harold repeated. “Er…Scotch.” His voice was hoarse. “Please. If you have one.” He pushed his shoulders down and tilted his chin. He looked a little paler than he had earlier. “Coben,” I said, hoping he wasn’t coming down with something. “Come and meet Harold and Mable’s godson. Ed Mooreland.”

Chapter Three Coben accepted the drink Harold passed him and took a large gulp. He walked up to me. I reached for his hand. His fingers were cool, his palm a little clammy. Perhaps the talk with Harold hadn’t gone according to plan. Still he stared at Ed. Ed stared right on back. “Funny thing is…” I started, trying to fill in a weird silence that had descended and wondering why the air felt like it had an electric current running through it. “I actually met Ed today. What a coincidence, eh?”

“You met him?” Coben dragged his attention from Ed to me. “What? How?” He narrowed his eyes. Why is he being so rude? “He came into Dragon’s Ink. He was a client.” I tried to keep the irritation out of my tone. “I added a bird to his half-leg tat.” “Nice to meet you.” Ed held out his hand to Coben. His voice was tense. Coben took it, shook very briefly, then shoved his hand into his trouser pocket. “She tattooed you?” He paused. “My wife.” “Yes. Your wife.” Ed knocked back the last of his drink. He swept his tongue over his bottom lip and narrowed his eyes. “She’s very good.”

“I know.” Coben mimicked Ed by finishing his freshly poured Scotch in one go. He shifted forward and back as though wondering whether to sit or not— or maybe leave the room. “I’ll be back in a moment.” Harold raised a large glass of red into the air. “Best just check the boss is okay in the kitchen.” “Sure.” I smiled his way. It was a false smile because something was going on. I had no idea what but I’d never seen Coben so twitchy. “Ed is in the military,” I said, tucking my loose strands of hair behind my ears. “Oh yeah?” Coben tilted his chin. “Yep.” Ed turned away and

headed to the drinks cabinet. “Don’t ask me about it, though.” “He can’t tell you,” I said. “It’s top secret.” Coben kind of grunted. I poked him in the ribs. “What’s the matter?” I mouthed, frowning. “Nothing.” He clenched his jaw and a tendon jumped in his cheek. Ed poured himself another drink. As he turned back to us, Mable appeared. “Ah, here you all are,” she said, holding out her hands. She came up to me and kissed my cheek. “Sian, you look beautiful.” “Thank you.” I smiled. “So do you.” “Coben, thank you so much for

coming this evening.” She angled her face toward him. “My pleasure.” He politely touched his lips to her cheek. I glanced at Ed. He was staring at Coben. Two lines plowed across his forehead and he was breathing deep, his shirt tightening over his broad chest. I’d never known Coben to be anything other than perfectly polite and controlled when we’d been out, so this reaction to Ed was weird. But it seemed Coben had a strange effect on Ed too—I just didn’t understand what. “Dinner is served.” Mable rubbed her hands together. “In the dining room and you must come and meet Rachel, Sian. She’s an artist, like you.”

“Oh, okay.” I warmed to Mable a little more. I adored being described as an artist because it’s what I was. Sometimes people, older people especially, forgot that. “Want a top up?” Ed asked, holding the Scotch aloft and nodding at Coben’s glass. Mable linked her arm with mine and led me from the room. I glanced over my shoulder at Ed and Coben. Something passed between them. A look, a frown, an acknowledgment. Coben shook his head very slightly, only just perceptible. Ed went ahead and filled his glass. Fuck! Of course.

They knew each other from the Air Force. I should have guessed. Ed’s super-secret job…he was special forces. I’d thought as much but this just confirmed it in my mind. Coben clearly didn’t want to give the game away about Ed’s elite career, not now that he was out in civvy street. It wasn’t his place to discuss it. Besides, it was perfectly possible Ed’s family and friends didn’t know what a dangerous job he had. Coben had talked to me about his decision to leave the RAF. He’d considered special forces himself but decided against it, preferring to join in the rat race and be his own boss. He’d had enough of taking orders, he’d said, and wanted to be the one giving them

instead. Coben had picked a different route. Ed had taken the dangerous one. The dining room was another grand space with lofty ceilings, dark furniture and a long table set with elegant cutlery, a pretty summer flower display and expensive-looking glassware. I was directed to a seat next to Rachel, a pretty young girl of about twenty who had golden skin, the result of being in Australia, I guessed, and a warm smile. As I sat I glanced at the door, wondering where Coben and Ed were. No doubt catching up on their situation,

discovering the lay of the land and what Mable and Harold knew. I felt pleased I’d worked it out and would be sure to keep their secret safe. They entered the room at the same time Harold did. He was holding a large plate of lamb that he set in the center of the table. Mable followed with steaming vegetables. Ed and Coben sat opposite Rachel and I. As Mable fussed over telling us what the sauce was and that potatoes were on the way, Coben caught my eye. “Okay?” I mouthed. His face softened a little and he nodded, took another sip of his drink. I glanced at Ed. He had a little rise of color on his cheeks. He didn’t look

quite as cool as he had earlier when I’d been inking him. He turned from Coben and engaged in a conversation with Harold about the upcoming general election. “Mable told me you’re a tattoo artist,” Rachel said, helping herself to lamb. “Yes, that’s right.” I spread my napkin on my lap. “How did you get into that?” “I went to art college in London.” “Oh, me too, but not in London. I loved it.” She huffed. “Haven’t done much with the qualification yet, though. There doesn’t seem to be much work around.” I smiled. “I hear you. I struggled to

get work in any kind of art job that appealed to me but one day I dropped off some designs at Dragon’s Ink and the manager, I guess I struck lucky, said he had an opening for an apprentice.” “Cool.” She passed me the fork to gather meat onto my plate, then dipped into the vegetables with a large silver spoon. “It was. It took a few years. I was a dogsbody to begin with, and they ripped at me for being a girl, but once I proved I could design and ink I just became one of the team.” “Are you the only girl?” “Yes.” “And do you have tattoos?” She glanced down my body as if trying to see

through my clothes. “No.” I laughed. “I think I’m the only tattooist in the world that doesn’t have any.” I helped myself to green beans and glanced at Coben. He was rubbing his temple. “I did a design on my husband, Coben, though. That’s how I met him.” Coben glanced up. He smiled at Rachel. “I’m sorry, we weren’t introduced.” “I know who you are.” She licked her lips and straightened a little. “Uncle Harold mentioned you’re going to help him out with his new business venture.” “If all goes to plan.” He took some lamb, then wordlessly passed the fork to Ed.

Ed piled meat on his plate, enough to feed several men, before adding the roast potatoes Mable had brought into the room. “So what did your wife tattoo on you?” Rachel asked Coben. “A bird. Here.” He touched his right collarbone. “Does it mean something?” she asked. “It reminds him of his time in the Royal Air Force.” I glanced at Ed to see if he’d acknowledge what I’d said. If he’d ask Coben about what regiment he’d been in or where he’d been deployed. Ed piled his fork with meat and shoveled it into his mouth. His eyes cast

downward. No, of course he didn’t ask. He already knew. A little thrill went through me again. I’d figured it out. I’d grill Coben later about my mysterious client and what he did. See if I really had connected the dots. How exciting, a real SAS man at the dinner table. The rest of the meal went by with light conversation. Mable and Harold were charming hosts and involved everyone in topics about travel and what was going on in London. They were keen theatergoers and Harold had us all laughing at a tale about a show going wrong and the main characters having to ad-lib.

Dessert was a delicious offering of Eton Mess, one of my favorites, but as soon as it was finished, spoons and forks set down, Ed stood. “Harold,” he said, then turned to Mable, “I’m afraid I’m going to have to cut my evening short. Something came up earlier today that I have to sort out.” “Oh, really?” Harold wiped his mouth with his napkin, then set the screwed up linen on the table. “That’s a shame.” “Edward, is it really that urgent?” Mable asked. “We’ve seen so little of you lately.” Coben glanced up at Ed. Ed caught his gaze briefly before returning his attention to Harold. “I’m

afraid it is. You know what it’s like. But thank you for inviting me.” He tucked in his chair, then gripped the top of the seat. “Rachel, it was lovely to see you again.” He nodded at Rachel. “Sian, you too.” “Same here,” I said. Rachel smiled. Ed put his hand on Harold’s shoulder. “I’ll call you, soon.” “Be careful, son.” Harold frowned, his mouth set in a serious, almost stoic line. “Always.” Ed stepped behind Coben. He repeated the same gesture on Coben’s shoulder, squeezing it too. “Good to meet you, Coben.” Coben swallowed as he stared

straight ahead, then, “You too,” he replied stiffly. Ed gave Mable a quick hug and was gone. No one spoke. His sudden departure appeared to have stunned everyone slightly. The front door banged. The roar of a motorbike filled the room. It revved away, the rumble from the exhaust so loud the windowpanes rattled as did the chandelier hanging over the table. “Oh, he does worry me on that thing,” Mable said, sipping her wine and frowning. “The motorbike outside is Ed’s?” I asked. “Yes, he loves the damn thing.”

Harold rolled his eyes. “Always tearing around on it.” “I’m sure he’s a very capable rider.” Coben shrugged. “In his line of work.” “Well that’s just another thing that worries me.” Mable shook her head. “I keep hoping he’ll retire.” Ah, so they do know what he does. “Retire?” Rachel laughed. “He’s too young to retire even for an army bloke.” “RAF, dear,” Mable corrected, “it’s different.” “Well, anyway, what is he now, thirty-one?” Rachel shrugged. “Thirty-four,” Coben said. He shot a glance at me. “I’d guess, anyway.”

“Mmm, yes, he’d be thirty-four now, you’re right.” Harold nodded. “It was his birthday last month.” And looking damn good for his years, I thought. The guy was seriously fit. But I wondered how Coben had guessed his age so accurately. It seemed an odd thing for him to remember if they’d just been work colleagues. “Well,” Harold said, “perhaps we should retire for coffee. Coben, would you partake in a cigar with me?” “Er, yes, thanks. That would be nice.” Harold and Coben stood and left the room. “I’ll make coffee.” Mable smiled at Rachel and I. “Why don’t you ladies

make yourselves comfortable in the drawing room.” “Would you like help with this?” I gestured to the table littered with empty plates. “Oh no, my housekeeper will see to that in the morning.” “Shall I make the coffee?” Rachel asked. “No, no, not at all, you girls go and talk art and I’ll be with you in a moment or two.” The rest of the evening went by quickly. The coffee perked me up as I’d felt tired but I was still happy to leave just before midnight when Coben appeared from the snug—smelling of cigar smoke—and told us a cab was

outside waiting for us. “Thank you,” I said to Mable as I set down my empty coffee cup and stood, “for a wonderful evening.” “My pleasure. It’s been lovely to spend more time with you both.” She stood too and gave me a quick hug. “And, Rachel, do call in at Dragon’s Ink if you’re in the area. I’ll show you around.” “I’d love that.” Rachel smiled and nodded enthusiastically. Coben said goodbye to the ladies. I gave Harold a kiss on his warm, port-red cheek. Coben and I headed into the cool night air. I pulled my shawl closer as we

climbed into the waiting cab. “Success with Harold?” I asked. Coben climbed in and shut the door. “Yes, he’s great. Going to be a pleasure doing business with him. He just gets it, you know.” He sat back and blew out a breath as though letting it take tension from his body. “Having an easy, switched-on client will make a big difference to the job.” “And do you think you’ll have to go out there? To the Middle East?” “Maybe for a week or so, but the majority can be done remotely, plus I have extra help now on the team. They can do some of the traveling.” “That’s good, then.” I paused. “Mable and Rachel are nice.”

“Yes. You seemed to get on well with them both.” “I did.” I paused. “And so is Ed. Nice, that is.” Coben said nothing. “You’ve met him before, haven’t you?” I reached for his hand. He spun to face me, his fingers gripping mine. “What makes you think that?” I shrugged, trying to be nonchalant. “Just a guess.” I smiled. “I’m right though, aren’t I?” He frowned. “What? How can it be top secret when you’re not even in the forces anymore?” “It’s not top secret.” He sounded

huffy. “So don’t act like it.” I tried to pull my hand away. He was being weird. He kept a firm grip of me. “I’m sorry. You’re right. We served together, feels like forever ago.” “Where?” “The Gulf. No big deal.” Of course it was a big deal. The Gulf had taken its toll on every soldier who’d been deployed there. “Was he your superior?” “No, we were equal. He’s gone up the ranks now, though, obviously.” I nudged him with my shoulder, smirked like a conspirator. “Is he SAS?” He shook his head. “Go on, tell me. He must be. I’m

guessing he’s not married, no ring, no kids, just dedicated to serving his country. Plus he was really cagey when I asked him about his job when I was inking him.” “How would I know what regiment he’s in now?” Coben stared out of the window at the passing shops that were shrouded in darkness. I studied his profile. He had soft features, a straight nose and a gently sloping chin. I adored that about him, his gentle face, easy smile. But right now it all seemed much harder than usual— harsher and sterner. I didn’t like it and hadn’t seen it in him before. “What’s the matter?” I asked. “Nothing.”

“Are you sure?” “Yep.” He rubbed his thumb over my hand and turned to me. “Just tired. It’s been a long day.” He smiled but it didn’t reach his eyes. **** The rest of the week went by in a blur and I was glad when the Bank Holiday weekend arrived and the sun was shining. I had a rare three days off, which would give me time to give the house a clean through, catch up on phone calls and enjoy Coben’s company. If he cheered up, that was. He’d been moody ever since the dinner party two evenings ago. Grunting rather than speaking at breakfast and working late in the evening, coming

home exhausted and answering questions with single-word answers. “Hey,” I called as I heard the front door close. “TGI Friday.” I put down the spoon I’d been using to stir chili and looked from the kitchen door into the hallway. “Hi…” he said, hanging his suit jacket on a hook. He still had that grumpy vibe. “I’m making your favorite. Come and have a beer while I cook.” “Yeah, in a minute.” He toed off his shoes, slid his tie from his neck and draped it over his jacket. I scowled. A thank you would have been nice. “Why? What else have you got to do?”

“Check my e-mails.” He undid the top button of his shirt. “But you’ve just come in.” Surely he’d spent all day at his office doing that. “Come on, sit in here with me.” He clicked his tongue against the roof of his mouth as though annoyed by my insistence that he spend time with me. Heat boiled in my veins, my ears rang and my heart rate sped up. “Okay, mister.” I strutted up to him and poked my finger against his chest. “I’ve just about had enough of you.” His eyes widened and he leaned backward to avoid my jabbing fingernail. “Sian, babe…?” “Don’t Sian babe me. What’s with

the misery and the long face? You’ve been like this since Wednesday evening.” I wanted to add that we hadn’t made love since then either, even though he’d seemed pretty up for stripping off my sexy underwear before we’d gone to Harold and Mable’s. “No I haven’t.” “You bloody well have.” I put my hands on my hips. “No…I…haven’t.” He stepped around me and into the kitchen. I followed and watched as he pulled a bottle of beer from the fridge and popped the lid. He sat at the pine table with his elbows on the surface. “Coben?” I held out my hands. “What is it? Talk to me.” I’d never had

to ask him to do that before. “Is it work?” “Yeah, lots on.” He took a slug of beer. It left a line of foam on his top lip and he swiped his tongue out to retrieve it. “But that’s not unusual.” I stepped up to him, rested my buttocks on the table and stared down at the top of his head. His hair was getting ready for a trim. “And surely it’s good to be busy.” “Yes, it is good to have the business. Just means my mind is…” “What?” “All over the place.” He shoved his hand through his hair. “It’s just all over the place.” I flattened down several strands

he’d left sticking up. “But you’ll cope. You’ve got systems organized, a good team.” Damn it. I hated seeing work get to him like this. “I know.” “And you have to remember this is down time. The evenings and weekends are not work time. It’s you time…” I slipped my hand down his temple and stroked my finger over his bristly cheek. “Us time.” “Us time.” He looked up at me. His eyeline dropped to the small pink vest top I was wearing and the line of my cleavage. His pupils dilated a little and he pushed his beer to one side, the base of the bottle scraping on the surface of the wood.

My belly clenched. I knew that look well enough. It didn’t usually happen quite so fast but I wasn’t about to complain. I cupped his chin and he stood, fast, the chair grating on the floor tiles. “Sian,” he said, gripping the back of my neck with one hand, his fingers tightening in my hair. “Fuck.” “Okay.” I grinned and slid my hand down the column of his neck to the undone collar of his white shirt. He loomed over me and pressed close. I could feel his body heat blasting onto my skin and smell his faded cologne. He was breathing fast. His mouth caught mine. He

cradled the back of my skull. His tongue was insistent and urgent. Lust shot through my body and I clung to his shoulders. I was whisked into the moment and into his desire. “Up,” he murmured, hoisting me onto the table as he’d spoken. He stepped between my legs, bunching my short skirt up around my thighs. “I need you. Now.” “Yes, now.” I reached for the button on his trousers, released it and his zipper. God, he was so hot. Like this, in his work clothes, smart and businesslike yet overcome with longing…for me. His cock was straining against the material of his boxers. He shoved my skirt up around my

waist and yanked my knickers down. I kicked my left leg and he helped them slip so they dangled from my foot. “I’m so hard for you. Feel.” He pushed his trousers to his thighs, reached for my hand and pressed it over his boxer-clad dick. I gave it a firm squeeze. “So you are, soldier.” I grinned, eager to get him buried deep. He groaned and pressed me back onto the table. The pine was cool on my butt, and his body was so hot over me. I hooked my legs around his hips and slid my hand up the inside of his shirt, spreading my fingers on the warm skin of his back. “Give me your pussy,” he said,

pushing his boxers away, then aiming his cock at my entrance. “It’s yours. Take it.” I tilted my hips, braced, preparing for his thrust. I had a feeling it wasn’t going to be a slow ride. “Are you wet?” he asked, his cockhead parting my first folds and easing in. “For you.” My pussy was quivering, my clit swelling. “Give it to me.” He slid a hand beneath the arch of my spine and gripped me. The other held the back of my head. I was pinned to him. He kissed me with a ravenous hunger I hadn’t known before and pushed in.

I tensed, held my breath, struggled to be involved in the kiss as he shoved balls deep. The dense filling, the stitch of discomfort and the absolute passion behind his force was mind-blowing. Almost immediately he withdrew, barged in again, his balls slapping up against my ass. I crossed my ankles at the base of his back and hung on to him. He seemed so lost in me, so consumed. He set up a wild pace, not letting me shift as he plundered on and on. His need for me, his almost violent want, was hugely erotic. He was grunting, groaning, and his dick, so thick and hungry, dragged deliciously over my Gspot.

“Oh, God.” I gasped, breaking the kiss. His body was rubbing against my clit. “I’m going to…” It was building. The pressure of an orgasm growing. “Yes. Come on my dick. My dick that’s just for you now…hard just for you now.” “Now, yes now, forever.” I shut my eyes, the fire inside me raging with need for release. “I fucking love your pussy,” he said, his voice strained. He too was close. “I fucking love my cock in cunt.” “Coben…” I gasped. Orgasm swept through me as his words echoed in my ears. His thrusts grew even wilder. The kitchen table creaked. He squeezed me

closer still, trapping me to him. “Ahhh…” He came, spurting into me. “Ahhh, yeah, fucking hell…” My pussy contracted around him. Blissful spasms of release and tingles of pleasure swept through my body. “You’re so perfect,” he murmured against my ear, his breaths loud and hot. “Ditto,” I said, opening my eyes and staring at the white ceiling. My chest was heaving against his as I tried to catch my breath. “I don’t want anything to change us.” He raised his head and looked down at me. “Why would it?” I pushed my hands through his hair and relaxed my toes, which had curled without me

realizing. He frowned slightly. “Just that…” “What?” “You know, since we’ve been together I’ve been so happy. I don’t want that to change.” “Me too. Happy, that is. And it won’t change.” I swept my lips over his. “Why would it?”

Chapter Four Coben and I peeled ourselves apart. The bottle of beer had been knocked over and was dripping on the tiled floor, creating a sticky amber puddle. Coben tucked his softening cock away and set about cleaning up the mess. I scooped up my knickers, gave the meal a quick stir, then went to the bathroom to freshen up. His words rattled in my brain and sent a thrill through me. I fucking love your pussy. I fucking love my cock in cunt. He’d never said that before as

he’d been in the final throes. It was new and exciting. But I wondered why it had tumbled out of his mouth. What had been going through his mind and why was he worried things might change? I didn’t know the answer to that but I would probe a little more, let my inquisitive side out to play. Feeling a little less like I had the just-fucked look, I headed back into the kitchen. The spicy scent of chili flooded my nostrils and made my mouth water. Coben was sitting at the table again with a fresh bottle of beer. He glanced up as I walked in, his cheeks still flushed from the exertion. “You okay?” he asked, smiling. “Of course.” I set knives and forks

on the table. “You?” He rested his hand over mine. “Absolutely. I just…” “What?” “Had to have you. It just came over me.” He studied me. “I hope I wasn’t rough.” “Not at all, it was amazing. The perfect appetizer.” He lifted my hand to his mouth and kissed my knuckles. “And now I hope you’re hungry for food,” I said. “I am.” I turned and served. I could almost feel his gaze on me as he watched my every move. I set his meal in front of him before adding a bowl of salad to the

table, enjoying the simmering sexy atmosphere between us. I hoped it would be a theme for the weekend after his low mood. “Are we still going to the beach? Sunday maybe?” I reached for a glass of wine, then sat next to him. “Sounds like a plan.” He started eating. “Weather is still looking good. It will be nice to laze on a sun lounger, listen to the waves, eat ice cream.” “We’ll head to Brighton, shall we?” “Yes, I love it there.” I helped myself to salad. Coben was quiet. He stared at the window.

Suddenly I felt like he was drifting again. I’d reeled him back in but now where was he going? “So,” I said. “Are you going to tell me about these ‘places’ your mind has been these last few days?” He set his attention on me. “It’s nothing.” “Of course it’s something.” I held his gaze. “Tell me.” He let out a small sigh. “The other night.” He paused. “At the Sterns’.” “It was a lovely evening.” I thought of our conversation in the cab on the way home. “But you missed having a proper catch-up with your old military friend?” “Edward?”

“Ed, Edward…yes.” He poked at his chili. “I guess.” “I know you’ve found it hard to talk about the tours in Afghanistan in the past. Maybe it would have done you good to hash through some memories.” He said nothing. “It’s not the same talking to me, is it?” I went on. “I wasn’t there. But maybe if you and Ed got together and—” “I don’t know if that’s a good idea.” I often worried that he hadn’t kept in touch with any military friends. It was as if leaving the forces had been a completely new start for him, not just career but in every aspect of his life. Now his only male companions were

either work colleagues or family. “Why not?” I asked. “I think it would be a great idea.” He shoveled in a mouthful of food as though knowing it would buy him time before he answered. I waited patiently. “It just wouldn’t,” he said eventually. “But you said you’d been friends.” “We were.” “Good friends?” He nodded. “Yes, good friends.” “No one would have guessed the other evening. You barely said five words to each other.” “It was…awkward.” He took a slug of beer.

“Why?” I frowned. “Tell me, I don’t get it.” “I suppose there were just things we would have liked to say to each other, talk about, but couldn’t because there were other people there who shouldn’t hear those things.” “Including me?” He reached out and covered my hand, the one holding my fork. “No, not including you. I think…maybe it’s things I should have told you, long ago.” “Like what?” Were there horrors of the war that lurked in his psyche that he still hadn’t allowed to surface? “Not now,” he said, resuming eating and piling up his fork with the last of his dinner. “But I will…soon.”

“Deal.” A sudden idea popped into my mind. “You know I have Ed’s phone number, right?” “What? Why?” He looked shocked. “Standard procedure at Dragon’s Ink. He put it on the form when he came in for his tat.” Coben’s shoulders relaxed a fraction but his expression was still riddled with confusion. “Everyone leaves a number in case we have to follow up on anything.” “I see…so it’s at work.” “Yes. You want me to get it next week?” He finished his beer. “Nah, don’t worry about it. It’s fine.”

“Okay, well if you change your mind let me know.” Coben stood and began to load the dishwasher. That was the deal. Whoever hadn’t cooked, tidied away. I finished up the last of my salad and twisted to watch him, content to sip my wine and study his cute ass as he bent over. “I might go shopping tomorrow afternoon with Stella,” I said. “I haven’t seen her for ages. Do you mind?” “No, not at all. I’ve got a few admin jobs I want to catch up on.” “Great. I’ll only be a few hours. And we’ll have all day Sunday together at the beach.” He straightened and turned to me.

“I’m looking forward to it.” “Me too.” I smiled and reached for my handbag. “I’ll drop Stella a text, then.” I rummaged through the contents, pushed my purse out of the way, removed my makeup bag and pulled out a packet of tissues and a hairbrush. “Bugger, I’ve left my phone at work.” “You sure?” He looked worried. I thought back and groaned. “Yes, I remember now. I was getting ready to leave and Drake called me back about something. I remember putting it on my workstation and then going over a few designs with him. It must still be sitting there. I’ll have to go in tomorrow morning and get it. Drake was shutting up early tonight. He was going out.”

“That’s a pain, to have to traipse all the way there on your day off.” “It won’t take long, and I can’t go a long weekend without my phone. My mother will freak. You know she always calls me on a Saturday lunchtime.” He laughed. “Yes, you’re right, Margaret has her routine. Come on, let’s go and cuddle up and watch TV for a bit.” He held out his hand. I took it, pleased that he seemed more relaxed. It just went to show what a bit of pre-dinner fun and a good meal could do to a man’s mood. **** The next morning I got up early, having left Coben sleeping in bed, and headed into work, wanting to get the job

of collecting my phone done and out of the way. Drake looked up from a tat he was working on as I went in. “Sian, what are you doing here?” “My phone.” I pointed to my workstation and clicked my tongue on the top of my mouth. “I left it.” He glanced over. “Sorry, I didn’t notice.” “No worries.” I scooped it up and checked the screen. No missed calls but one text from Stella. Fancy a mooch down King’s Road Saturday pm? I quickly replied. Exactly what I was thinking. Knock for you at 1? XOXO

I slipped the phone into my purse. The file that held the details of all my clients caught my attention. Ed’s contact number was in there. I bit my bottom lip. I probably shouldn’t take it because it hadn’t been given for social reasons. But still, something inside told me it was the right thing to do, for my husband. I flicked through the leaves of documentation and quickly found Ed Mooreland. I added his number into my phone, then put the form away again neatly. “I’ll see you on Tuesday,” I called to Drake. “Yep, have a good one.” He didn’t look up. ****

I arrived home to the heavenly smell of coffee. Coben was in the kitchen, freshly showered, his hair still damp, and pouring a fresh pot. “Good timing.” He reached for another mug when he saw me. “You get your phone?” “Yes, it was exactly where I left it.” “Busy in the shop?” “Not too bad this early. Walk-ins tend to be later in the day.” I reached for a piece of paper and a pen and pulled my phone from my handbag. I scrolled until I found Ed’s number, then scribbled it down. “Here.” I placed the square of notepaper on the table next to where

Coben was now sitting. “What’s that?” He picked it up. “Ed’s number. In case you change your mind and decide to call for a catchup.” Coben didn’t reply. He just stared at the numbers. “You should,” I said. “Call him, that is. Sooner rather than later if you’re going to. He’ll be off leave soon.” “No.” “Why not?” “It’s just…” “What?” He set the paper down and rubbed his fingers over his forehead. “Lots of memories.” I sat next to him and rested my

hand on his shoulder. “Memories you two share…so share them.” He looked at me. “I do love you, you know.” “And I love you.” He leaned forward and set a firm kiss on my lips. My phone trilled to life. “You know who that will be.” “Your mother.” He reached for his coffee, smiling. “Go give her the weekly update of your life.” I picked up my phone and hit answer. “Hi, Mum.” “Sian, dearest, how are you?” “I’m fine, are you?” “Yes, busy, busy, you know with

the village garden club. We’ve got the fete this afternoon.” “Oh yes, of course.” I headed out of the kitchen and into the living room. Coben didn’t need to listen to our chatter while he was having his first cup of coffee of the day. “How are the preparations going?” “Well Belinda Jones is supposed to be judging the vegetables but she’s gone into hospital with a broken hip, so I think I might be taking on that role. Not that I’m an expert.” “I’m sure you’ll be fine.” We talked for half an hour. I filled her in on what I’d been doing at work, told her about the nice meal at the Sterns’—though I didn’t mention Ed—

and finished our weekly round up by telling her I was going shopping with Stella. “Give Stella my love.” “I will, Mum. Bye, and I hope it all goes well at the fete.” I hung up and wandered back into the kitchen. Coben was standing at the window, staring out into our long, thin back garden. He was holding his phone. “You okay?” I asked, unused to seeing him so motionless. “I just called Edward.” “You did?” I was surprised. I didn’t think he would even though I’d given him the opportunity. “How did that go?” “He’s coming here.” He turned to

face me. “Oh, that’s good, then. You can talk in private.” I paused. “When is he coming?” “Now. Said he’d be here in twenty.” “Wow, that’s keen.” Coben shrugged, then poured more coffee. “I guess he just wasn’t doing anything else today.” I glanced at my watch. “Well I’m heading out soon anyway to meet Stella. There’s some steak and sausages in the fridge if you want to light the BBQ and cook something up. Why don’t you have a beer in the sunshine while you chat?” I gestured to the sunny sky outside. “Might as well make the most of it.”

“Mmm…yes. Might do that.” He set his coffee on the table before striding to the back door. He flung it open, letting in the breeze and the sounds of the birds and the distant growl of London traffic. He breathed deep. “You okay?” “Yes, it will just be strange to spend time with him again. I didn’t think I would.” “I guess it’s like that for lots of your old colleagues.” “Yes.” He paused. “Edward is different, though. We were close. When I left the military…” “Go on?” “I really thought his chosen path would…well it’s a dangerous one. I

often wondered if he was still alive.” “Oh, Coben.” I stepped up behind him, wrapped my arms around his waist and pressed my cheek against the dent between his shoulder blades. “That must be so hard.” “But he is alive, so that’s good.” He rested his hands over my arms. “Though he didn’t have that scar on his face last time I saw him.” “Well maybe you can ask him about it.” “I doubt he’ll tell me.” Coben spun and circled his arms around my waist. “Classified and all that.” “He might. If you were close before.” I swept my lips over his. “Listen, I have to go or I’ll be late for

Stella. You have a nice time with Ed okay.” He nodded and released me. He faced the garden again as though deep in thought. I headed upstairs to freshen up. Twenty minutes later, as I was coming back down, the unmistakable gutsy rumble of a motorbike rattled around the hallway. Ed. I slipped into my shoes, grabbed my handbag, and as I went to open the front door the bell rang. I pulled it open. Ed was standing there. Dressed head to toe in black leathers and holding a shiny black helmet. He had a few days’

stubble on his jawline and his mouth was tipped into an easy smile. “Hey, Sian. How are you?” “I’m fine, you?” “Good. Nice place you have here.” “Thanks, we like it. Come in.” I stepped to one side. Ed moved past me and set his helmet on a low table. “That be okay there?” “Yes,” Coben said. I looked past Ed. Coben stood in the kitchen doorway, feet apart, hands shoved in his jeans pockets. He wore a solemn expression. “Hey.” A seriousness came over Ed. “Thanks for the call this morning.”

“It made sense,” Coben replied. “You reckon?” Ed raised his eyebrows slightly. “Come through, there’s coffee on.” “I’ll see you later,” I called. “Have a nice time.” Neither of them replied as I stepped out and shut up the door. **** Three hours later, laden down with several bags containing a birthday present for my aunt, a new shirt for Coben and two new pairs of jeans for myself, I let myself into our home. The hallway was in shadows, the back of the house and the garden getting the best of the sunshine at this time of day. The summery scent of the smoky

charcoal drifted toward me. I dumped my bags down and headed in search of a much-needed glass of water. As I filled a tumbler from the tap in the kitchen sink I stared out of the window. Coben and Ed stood by our shiny chrome BBQ. Each held a bottle of beer and Ed had changed into jeans and a black t-shirt. He must have brought them with him because they weren’t Coben’s. Their deep voices filtered my way. I saw Coben tip his head back and laugh at something Ed had said. My husband certainly looked more relaxed than he had for several days. I took a long drink. I’d clearly

done the right thing by getting that phone number. He’d needed to spend some time with Ed, hash through old adventures and reminisce. Likely chat about fallen comrades and memories that could only be shared with each other. Ed reached for a fork, stabbed a charred-looking sausage and took a bite. Coben watched him, his beer held halfway to his mouth, as though fascinated. He then set his hand on Ed’s shoulder and I lip read him asking if it was good. Ed nodded and smiled, still chewing. I pulled a bottle of beer from the fridge, flicked off the lid and headed out to join them.

“Hey,” I called. They both spun to look at me. Coben stepped away from Ed and poked at the smoldering embers beneath the sausages. “Hi.” Ed smiled at me. “Good shopping trip?” “Great, thanks.” As I stepped up to him I got a whiff of his delicious aftershave over and above the BBQ scent. “I got everything I needed and a bit more.” “Sounds expensive,” Coben said, setting down the prongs. “The most expensive thing was a new shirt I bought for you.” I laughed. “Oh well, can’t complain, then.” He set a quick kiss on my cheek. “Thank

you.” “Listen, I should get going.” Ed drained his beer. “Don’t go on our account,” I said, “not much happening here, lazy Saturday in the sunshine.” “I should.” He set his attention on Coben. “It’s been good, though, catching up. We needed that.” “Yes.” Coben nodded. “Maybe we’ll do it again sometime?” Ed raised his eyebrows slightly. Coben paused, then, “I’d like that.” “Okay.” Ed nodded at the house. “Well, I’ll just go and throw my leathers on.”

“Sure.” Coben took Ed’s empty beer bottle from him. “I’ll get rid of this.” Ed headed across our small lawn. His ass looked damn cute in his denims and I admired it for a moment before turning to Coben. He too was watching Ed walking to the back door. His eyelids were heavy, his lips slightly parted. Is he looking at his ass too? “You had a nice time, then?” I asked, a little bubble of something like excitement popping in my stomach. Had they been into each other? Years ago? He snapped his attention to me. “Oh, er, yeah. Thanks.” “Thanks for getting his number or

thanks for leaving you alone?” “Both, I suppose. We had lots to talk about.” I smiled and hooked my hand through the crook of his elbow. “You chat about everything you needed to? Got stuff off your chest?” Had they talked about them? Their relationship? I was getting ahead of myself. Just because I thought the idea of Coben with another man was hot, it didn’t mean I could force the situation and it didn’t mean he’d ever been intimate with Ed. Coben hesitated for a moment. “Yes. I think so. Come on. I should go say goodbye at the door.” “Okay.” Coben moved the last few

sausages off the heat. We wandered into the house. Ed was in the hallway, looking big, bad and seriously sexy in his leathers. His shoulders were almost impossibly wide and the tight trousers hugged his legs and groin, highlighting every muscle and bulge. “Goodbye, Sian.” He pressed a quick kiss to my cheek. His stubble scratched my skin. Goodbye. I hated that word. It sounded like we’d never see him again. For some reason the thought shot unease right through me. “Why don’t you come to the beach with us tomorrow?” I said, the idea coming to me suddenly. “We’re going to Brighton. There’s plenty of room in the car and the weather forecast

is lovely.” Coben’s eyes widened at my sudden invitation. “Well…I…” Ed looked at Coben. “You’re probably busy,” Coben said. “No, not really.” Ed tilted his head a little. A small smile tugged at Coben’s mouth. “So come, then.” Ed also smiled. “Yeah, might just do that, but I’ll bike there. Drop you a text when I arrive.” “Great.” I grinned. Tomorrow I’d have not one hot guy to lounge on the beach with but two. I was a lucky girl. Plus it would mean I could do a bit more digging. Find out exactly what Ed had

been to my husband. “I’ll see you there.” I turned and went into the kitchen, planning already what to pack as a picnic. I reached for the wicker basket I used for such occasions, then surveyed the contents of the fridge. There was plenty to make lots of delicious goodies for the three of us, and Ed wouldn’t want to bring anything on the bike, it just wasn’t practical. I decided to go tell him not to worry about towels too. We could take extra of everything in the car. I froze in the doorway, hand against the frame. Ed and Coben were hugging. But it wasn’t a quick, back-slapping hug. There was something deeply intimate

about it. Their bodies were pressed close. Ed cradled the back of Coben’s head with one hand and the other was wound around his waist. Coben had his arms hooked beneath Ed’s, his hands on his shoulders, fingers spread as though trying to touch as much of him as possible. I couldn’t see Ed’s face but I could see Coben’s. He had his eyes shut tight, his lips pressed together. My heart raced and a pile of thoughts tumbled through my mind. “It’ll be okay,” Ed said. “I know. It’s just so good to see you. Didn’t think I ever would.” “You thought I’d be dead in a ditch? I’m too fucking sharp for that.”

“I know.” Coben pulled back and opened his eyes. “But shit happens.” Ed released him and stepped away. He scooped up his helmet and a black bag. Coben’s arms hung at his sides. “Tomorrow. The beach,” Ed said. “I’ll text when I hit Brighton.” Coben nodded and opened the door. Ed stepped out into the sunshine, his movements swift and efficient. For a big bloke he moved with ease and grace. It seemed Coben admired the way he moved too, for he studied him for several seconds before shutting the door. He rested back on it, eyes again closed, and blew out a long breath.

“So,” I said as gently as I could because I knew he had no idea I was standing there. “Are you going to start explaining this to me, soldier, or what?” His eyes shot open. “You and him.” I nodded at the door as the rumble of the bike vibrated around the four walls. “Me and him?” He frowned. “I’m not stupid, Coben. Please don’t treat me like I am.” “I don’t know what you mean.” He pushed away from the door and went to walk past me into the kitchen. I grabbed his arm. “Oh no, don’t run away and clam up. Me and you… now. We need to talk.”

Chapter Five I led him into the lounge and we sat side by side on the sofa. He was perched on the edge, his body tense. I took his hand, spread out his fingers and pressed a kiss to the center of his palm. “Coben, please, we’ve always been honest with each other about everything.” “I know.” A small tendon flexed in his cheek beneath his blond stubble. “And I know there’s more than meets the eye to you and Ed.” “But—” “And it’s not a problem.” Again I kissed his hand, then rested it against my

cheek. “I love you. I have from day one. You’ve got me, big time. Nothing is going to change that.” “I’m glad to hear it.” His mouth twitched into a smile. “And you told me way back that you’d flirted with being bi, that you’d had feelings for another man before. I’m hardly shocked to my core. I knew this about you before we married.” He nodded, shoved his hand through his hair and rested back on the sofa. Some of the tension seemed to seep from his body into the cushions. “Bi,” he repeated. “I suppose everything has to have a label these days.” “Not for me. I just want you to

know it’s not an issue in my world.” “I know it isn’t. Really I do.” He stroked my cheek, then down my arm, took my hand in his and clasped it. “So are you going to tell me about Ed?” “It’s complicated.” “Why?” “Because…well, it was a long time ago.” “It was about two minutes ago.” I raised my eyebrows. “And hey, the guy is seriously hot. Who the hell wouldn’t fancy the pants off him?” “You think he’s hot?” “Hell yeah!” “He is.” Coben chuckled, though it was a bit strained. “But let’s just say the

military are not quite as understanding as you are, Sian.” “But you’re not in the military, not now.” He went deathly serious again. “No but he is, and he’s high ranking. Society might have moved on but the Air Force, certainly some sections of it, aren’t so free spirited.” “So he is gay?” “Well, I’ve known him to have his fair share of fun with ladies so…” A small thrill went through me. So Ed wasn’t totally off limits, out of range, off the radar. Maybe he liked me a little too? Perhaps that threesome fantasy… I shook my head. I was getting ahead of myself, again. “He’s bi?”

“There’s that label, Sian.” I shrugged. “So tell me more.” “I think he’s only ever had feelings for me.” “What do you mean?” “I think I’m the only bloke he’s ever, you know, kissed, but of course that might be different now. I didn’t ask.” I leaned forward and set my lips on his—lips that had kissed Ed! I wished I could have seen them kiss. Just the thought made me tingle between my legs. “So this kiss, was it when you were both serving?” He swallowed. “Yes, but it was hard. We had to keep it a secret that we were into each other.” He reached out and cupped my cheeks. His brow

creased into a frown. “And you must too, Sian. It’s not fair on him if anything gets out about his sexuality. That would be his choice not ours.” “Of course I wouldn’t say anything. Why would I and who to?” “I don’t know. I’m just saying.” “But don’t you get it?” I shifted and straddled him, my knees bent against his thighs and my pussy, pressing through my knickers, over the creases in his denims and onto his cock. “The thought of you and Ed together turns me on.” I sank a little lower onto him. “I’ve told you that before. I can’t explain it, but the thought of you, and another man, him…” He ran his hands up my thighs, bunching my skirt. He watched it ruck

around his wrists and appeared lost in his thoughts. “Tell me,” I said quietly. “What else did you do other than kiss? What else had to be kept secret?” Oh God, will he give me details? He shook his head slightly. “Tell me.” I ran my hands beneath his t-shirt and slipped them over his pecs, leaned forward and kissed him. “Did he suck your cock? Did he suck it the way I do?” His breathing hitched. I sank a little lower on him and was rewarded with a hardening. “He did, didn’t he? Suck you, that is.” “Yes,” he whispered onto my lips. Fuck, he’s admitted it.

“But not the way you do it.” That surprised me. How many ways were there to suck a cock? “Explain.” I pulled at his t-shirt. He slipped it over his head, threw it to one side. “Just different.” He reached for my top, tugged it off and dropped it next to his. “How?” He licked his lips and looked at my breasts. “I dunno, it’s just more… rough with a man, more raw.” “You mean you didn’t worry about his gag?” I could see it now. Ed on his knees, Coben, my husband, ramming his cock in and out of that gorgeous mouth, ecstasy all over his face—Coben loved

being sucked off. “Yeah, I guess, real…deep throat.” “Fucking hell,” I murmured, capturing his mouth in a kiss and pushing my tongue against his. I wanted him. My body was buzzing for his. He was hard now and I writhed against him as I fumbled with the button on his jeans. “And you sucked him?” I asked, my lips moving against his. “Sian.” He shoved at his jeans, pushed at his boxers and his cock jutted upward. “What?” He pulled the gusset of my knickers aside and lined his cock with my entrance. I sank down. “Ah, yeah…tell

me…tell me everything.” I gasped. He was stretching me so much, this position, it felt wonderful for that first entry. “Yes, I sucked him. We were… lovers,” he said, pushing up my bra so he could cup my breasts. “Lovers,” I repeated. “Yes, like we are. Ed and I were together…we did…everything.” He pulled me to him and shoved his tongue into my mouth. Everything! I sank to full depth, his cock creating a dense, thick sensation that made me tense around it. My heart was beating fast as images of Ed and Coben naked, fucking, coming together, spun around my mind like a tornado whipping

up leaves. I kissed him back with an excited edge to my need to come. Damn, my husband had done so much more than I’d known before and it turned me on, this side to him—the expansion of his sexuality, his experience. I wanted a piece of it. “Yeah,” he panted, spanning my waist and staring at where we were connected. “You feel so fucking good doing that.” He urged me quicker. “More. Faster. Harder.” I gave it, grinding against him, building myself up to orgasm, my clit swelling and butting against his wiry pubes. “You fucked him?” I gasped. “Yes.” “And he…fucked you?”

“Yes. Oh, God, Sian…we did it all. So fucking good. I’m…” “Come…yes, come with me.” I was there. It had risen so quickly. The crest had arrived. I threw my head back, thought of the two men fucking, me there too, watching, masturbating, coming in time with them. I held my breath and groaned as bliss blasted through me. Coben thrust his hips up, his cockhead shoving against my cervix as my pussy clamped around him. “Yes, yes…” he hissed. I was aware of him climaxing inside me, allowing his release to flood from his cock. On and on I pulsed around his shaft. He grabbed my face, kissed me

hard again, his breaths a wild storm on my cheek. I could feel all of him, every ridge, his length, the way his root stretched my entrance. We were so connected. “Damn that was good.” My words were muffled, lost in his mouth. “Yeah…fast, though.” I slowed. “Fast but so good. We should do it like this on the sofa more often.” I giggled. “It clearly works.” He grinned. “You really couldn’t give a fuck, could you?” “What?” “About my past…with Ed.” He was still a little breathless. “No, I wish I’d known before.” He screwed his brow into several

creases. “I should have told you before. It’s been on my mind for years, that I’d only told you I’d kissed another man when I’d done so much more. When I’d had a full-on sexual relationship.” He looked so at war with himself it tore my heart. “Hey, hey, you’ve told me now and let’s face it.” I paused and ran my hands down his sex-sweat coated chest. “It’s even better to be able to picture the hot bloke you made out with. Better than trying to just imagine him.” He was quiet for a moment, then, “Why did you invite him to the beach?” He pushed my now-messy hair over my shoulders. “Really?” “Yes, really. Of course really.”

“Because I wanted to see him again. And…” “And?” he asked. “And I could tell you did too.” Coben didn’t deny that. “Do you think he wants to come with us? I mean, it’s not really an elite serviceman thing to do.” I laughed at that. “What, relax with friends on a sunny day, of course it is.” Coben grinned. “Yeah, you’re right. He can’t fill his life up entirely with missions.” I calmed my voice. “He’s SAS, isn’t he?” Coben nodded, suddenly serious. “The best of the best. But I didn’t tell you that.”

“You didn’t have to.” I kissed him, wondering if there were hidden meanings in Coben’s words—the best of the best at everything? At fucking? “It’s dangerous,” Coben said. “What he does. It’s one of the things that’s followed me, wondering if he’s okay…” “Alive?” “Yes, alive. And that scar, on his face.” “Did he tell you how he got it?” Coben shrugged. “He was vague, something about Kabul and a suicide bomber.” I shivered. He wrapped his arms around me and pulled me close. His flesh was hot

against my skin as he kissed the top of my head. “And his tat?” I asked. “Has that been added to other than what I did?” Coben laughed, shifting me in his arms. “We only cooked some steak and sausages this afternoon, Sian. I didn’t check him out head to toe. Clothes stayed on.” “Of course.” I smiled, my cheek bunching against his shoulder. “But tomorrow you’ll be able to see. I’m guessing he won’t wear his leathers on the beach.” **** The next day dawned bright and I was excited as I piled up the paraphernalia for the beach by the front

door. There were three sturdy loungers —wooden with red-and-white stripes— a blue windbreak, the large wicker basket stuffed full of a variety of homemade goodies I’d been creating since early that morning. I added towels, suntan lotion, a coolbox with drinks and the book I’d started a few weeks ago but hardly read. “Blimey, just as well Edward isn’t trying to squeeze in the back with all this lot,” Coben said, staring at it with his hands on his hips. “The car will be full.” “Well I have added extra. There’ll be one more person.” I touched my lips to his cheek. He hadn’t shaved since Friday morning and his jawline held a sexy coating of stubble. “Three of us,” I

added quietly, “a threesome trip to the beach.” He pulled back and raised his eyebrows at me. “What?” “Threesome. Don’t tell me you haven’t thought about it too,” I said. “We’ve talked about me, you and another man before, and now there’s a bloke with a face and a hot body who’s into you and might just do.” “Might just do?” He stared at me, his eyes wide. “Seriously is that what’s been going through your mind?” “Well yes. Since last week, when we were in bed, when you… remember?” “Yes. I remember.” He tugged at his bottom lip with his top teeth.

“It was you who suggested us finding another ‘cock’ to fulfill my fantasy.” “I said hired cock.” “Which would take a lot of organizing to find the right person.” I tipped my head, wondering if Coben would shoot the idea down or let it sit for a while. If he let it sit, then chances were he’d come round to my way of thinking. That’s how it often was with him. “You’re forgetting one thing,” he said. “One rather important detail.” “What’s that?” “He might not be into me, not anymore.” He shrugged. “That was a long time ago.”

“I don’t think that’s true. I’ve seen how he looks at you, how his eyes get heavy when he’s listening to you speak, how he held you yesterday when you said goodbye. He was also as stunned and as affected to see you at the Sterns’ as you were to see him. I think he just coped with it a little better.” “You think? He left as soon as he could. It was like he couldn’t stand to be sitting at the same table as me.” “But you don’t still think that, do you? Not after yesterday. It’s clear to me that he very much enjoys being in the same room as you, or garden at least.” “I suppose you’re right.” “I think the problem would more likely be that he’s not into me.” As I said

it my heart sagged. I hadn’t had any problems with getting men in the past. Before I’d met Coben I’d had lots of dates, turned lots of offers down too. But Ed…he was a different entity. He might want my husband but there were no guarantees he’d want me. “Who on this earth wouldn’t be into you,” Coben said, pulling me close. He’d obviously seen self-doubt cross my face, something that had happened over the years when it came to my work—that was par for the course with being creative—but not with relationships. “Of course he would be into you. The thing is…” “What.” I stared up at him, studying his eyes.

“Do I want another man touching my wife?” He raised his eyebrows. “Being into my wife?” “I suppose that’s for you to decide, though a threesome might be a bit awkward if that’s something you can’t get over.” I paused. “And I am sharing you with someone else.” He laughed suddenly, tipping his head back. “This is crazy talk. Edward is as likely to want to join us in bed as I am likely to make foreign minister.” “The country could do worse. You have a lot to offer international diplomacy.” I touched my lips to his. “But what if we asked and Edward said yes?” “But what if, and this is a new

concept for you, but what if for once you didn’t race ahead of yourself, babe.” He gave my ass a quick slap. Then his expression turned serious. “This is all so unexpected for me, to have Edward in my life again, even if just for today. I’ve told you everything about my past too, also something I hadn’t planned for this weekend. So slow it down, okay.” I took a deep breath. “I’m sorry, of course. Yes, I will slow it down. Whatever is right for you is right for me.” I kissed him. The last thing I wanted to do was make Coben uncomfortable or push him into a situation he didn’t want. “I love you.” “I love you too.” ****

Brighton was bustling with families and couples all jostling for space between the shoreline and the promenade. “Shall we head down the coast a bit?” Coben suggested, glancing at the full car park. “Good idea, let’s find somewhere less busy.” He drove along at a snail’s pace, hindered by the sheer volume of traffic and a double decker bus stopping and starting. A small train on wheels, not rails, rattled past us in its own lane. It was overflowing with beachgoers holding towels and bright bags, kids gripping buckets and spades and licking ice creams.

“This is when a bike is good,” Coben said. He indicated a gap between the vehicles. “We could just whizz along through there.” “I guess that’s why Ed has one, so he’s not at the mercy of the traffic.” “He’s always been a law unto himself.” I glanced at Coben. “What do you mean?” He shrugged. “Obviously he follows orders. He doesn’t break the rules, but he’s always been his own person, doesn’t like to be cornered, restricted. He knows what he wants and takes it.” “Is that one of the things that attracted you to him?”

He shrugged. “I suppose.” He paused. “He decided he wanted me. As soon as we’d established the feeling was mutual, he wouldn’t be tied down by what the powers that be said. He made it work.” He rubbed his hand over his forehead. “He used to come to me, take the risk, make the effort. It was him that made the first approach. It was brave. If I hadn’t felt the same way it could have gone tits up for him.” He shook his head as though a memory was coming back. “He’s done lots of brave things, but that, and then seeking me out night after night, was probably some of the bravest he’s ever done.” “And no one ever suspected anything?”

“No, well, nothing was ever said. But we were very careful and just acted like mates in public.” I rested my hand on his shoulder. “I can’t believe you kept all this inside for so long.” He glanced at me. “It’s the way it was. I never thought of it as a burden but a special time with a special person. But I feel lighter now you know. I wish I’d told you sooner.” “I’m glad you feel better, and don’t worry about wishing you’d told me sooner. It came out at the right time.” “You always say what I need to hear.” He squeezed my hand and glanced at me briefly. Just then the traffic cleared and

Coben made the most of it by speeding up the gears. We headed past the main drag of arcades, cafés and ice cream parlors. The famous pier shrank into the distance and the crowds on the beach thinned. “What about there?” I said, pointing to a small car park that appeared to have plenty of spaces. “Yes, that will do.” Coben indicated and pulled into a gap. Before us, sand dunes rose into the air like large bubbles coated in fine grass that rippled in the breeze. “I shouldn’t think it’s much of a walk to the beach.” “No. It’ll be nice, not so crowded as back there.” He let himself out of the

car and the warmth of the day poured in. “Just got to carry all this stuff.” “I’ll help.” I jumped out and started piling myself up with necessities for the beach. By the time I’d finished I looked like a pack horse and so did Coben. He kicked the door shut and clicked the car locked. Stomping up the first dune the heat poured down on me, but by the time I could see the waves the delicious briny breeze was wafting over my hot cheeks. I spotted a secluded dip in the dunes that offered uninterrupted views of the sea. There were a few people about but nothing like the congestion nearer the pier. “What do you think about that

spot?” I asked Coben. “Perfect.” He began to pad through the sand in the direction I’d pointed, his shoes puffing up small grainy clouds behind him. Soon we had three loungers set up, the windbreak hammered into the sand and the parasol over my lounger—I didn’t like to get too much sun on my cheeks. Coben opened the cooler and grabbed a can of Diet Coke. He tipped his head back and took a long drink. “So you gonna strip, sexy?” I asked, slipping off the sundress I’d traveled in. Beneath it I wore my new black bikini that had small silver beads on the straps and the bows on the bikini bottoms. I dragged my hair up into a high

ponytail and kicked off my shoes. The fine sand was hot on my feet but felt wonderful. Coben whistled. “Wow, sexy, takes one to know one.” He let his gaze slip down my body, completely unapologetic in the lascivious way he lingered on my breasts. “I’m glad I’ve got you tucked away from the masses. There’d be a few old codgers having heart attacks if you were loose by the pier in that bikini.” I laughed and flicked him with the corner of a towel. “Don’t be silly.” “I’m not. I’m being deadly serious. You should really wear that kind of stuff around the house more often.” “And do you think I’d get anything

done?” I was thrilled by his reaction to my new bikini. It had cost a packet but was clearly worth every penny. “Mmm, you have a point.” He stepped close and smoothed his finger over the strap that sat at my shoulder. “Well maybe just on Sundays. In the winter we’ll turn the heating up full.” A series of trills from his back pocket indicated a phone call. He pulled it out. “It’s Edward.” “Tell him we’re further along.” He answered the phone and turned to face the waves. “Hey. Where are you?” He paused. “Yep, keep going along there, past the pier and then about another mile. There’s a small car park on the left, next to some dunes. Just head

over them and you’ll see us.” Again he paused. “See you in a minute, then.” I spread my towel on my lounger and sat down, stretching my legs in front of me. It was nice to be out of the sun, though I knew Coben would enjoy it all day. He wasn’t afraid of heat—maybe that was a symptom of being posted in the desert for many months. “He’s made it to Brighton, then?” I asked. “Yes, in good time he said. He’ll be here in a minute.” “You think he’ll find us okay?” “Yep.” “But…?” “He’s found much harder targets than us, Sian, and with this monstrosity of a windbreak…”

I laughed. “Oh, okay.” I pulled the suntan lotion from my beach bag, squirted a dollop on my hand and started rubbing it on my legs. As I did so I was content to watch Coben strip to his swimshorts. There was no doubt about it my husband was hot. Tall and lean, toned in all the right places, including that sexy angle of muscle between his abs and the waistband of his trunks. The tantalizing strip of hair from navel to groin seemed to draw my eyes to that region all the more. Not that I didn’t adore the squared shape of his pecs and his cute little nipples, or the thick muscles of his thighs that were coated in fine hair. It was just his lower belly, the tempting bulge…

“Hey, what you looking at?” He was grinning at me as he folded his tshirt. “You, why? Got a problem?” I tried to act cocky and cool. “Not if it’s because you’re thanking your lucky stars I’m yours.” “That’s exactly what I was doing.” I gave up cool and grinned. “Can you do my back?” I held up the lotion. “With pleasure.” He smiled down at me. I turned to face the undulating dunes to my right. A shiver of anticipation ran over my skin. Just knowing Coben would be touching me, even just for the industrious action of applying sunscreen, brought pleasure to

my soul. He started to rub in the cool lotion. I shut my eyes and enjoyed his hands on me. His fingers were firm yet gentle. They ran into the groove of my spine and over the sweep of my shoulders. He tickled the nape of my neck, set a kiss on my temple, then ran the lotion just beneath the waistband of my bikini bottoms. “Hey, there you are, hiding in the dunes.” My heart hitched at the sound of Ed’s voice. Coben stopped what he was doing and gave a sharp intake of breath. It seemed Ed’s effect on us both was the same.

I turned and spotted him stomping down the dunes, the muscles in his legs tensing as his feet sank deep. He was out of his leathers and wore navy swimshorts and a black t-shirt. His hair, though short, still managed to look helmet-flat. “Great spot,” he said, nodding approvingly at our elaborate setup. “Yeah, we thought it would be better to be out of the crowds,” Coben said. “More relaxing.” “And I have plenty of food,” I added. “So we don’t need the cafés and shops.” Ed grinned and dumped the same black bag he’d used the day before next to the lounger farthest from the one I’d

sat on. “I’m going for a dip. Not the best day to spend two hours in bike gear. But at least I didn’t get stuck in traffic.” “Beauty of a bike,” Coben said. “Yep.” “Towels are there,” I said, pointing to the stack on Coben’s lounger. “If you’re going for a swim.” “I’ll get one when I come back up.” He gripped the base of his t-shirt with both hands and peeled it over his head. He did it tantalizingly slowly, almost as if knowing he was teasing us both. Revealing first his navel, then his flat stomach that held the hint of a sixpack, and finally his pecks. He had a scribble of dark chest hair that fanned outward to his nipples and as the

material went over his head he exposed his damp, jet-black underarm hair. He tossed the t-shirt aside and swiped his forearm over his brow. “Think I’ll take a dip.” He turned and strode down toward the sea. Coben was staring at him the same way I was sure I had been. I wondered what he was thinking. Were memories washing over him, bombarding him, or were thoughts of the future stealing his mind? Could he recall the feel of Ed’s skin against his? The taste of him on his tongue? How it felt when their bodies had been connected. I shifted on my seat, feeling turned on as all those curiosities flooded my mind.

Coben glanced at me. He had a little color on his cheeks that hadn’t been there before Ed had arrived. “You okay?” I asked. He nodded. “I don’t think you could have picked a sexier guy to have an affair with.” He sat opposite me, our knees almost touching, and looked out to sea again. “Mmm.” Ed was walking into the waves. He didn’t hesitate, kept on powering forward. Once it reached his thighs he dived expertly into a swell of rolling water. For a moment he disappeared. Then he surfaced and struck out into a fast crawl.

“What are you thinking, Coben?” I asked, gently resting my hand on his knee. He didn’t look at me. “Why has he come here? All this way on a hot day in leathers? He must have other things to do. Leave is so precious.” “Because he wants to be with you.” I gave a small shrug. “It’s not rocket science.” “But…there’s nothing between us.” He spoke slowly as if the words in his brain were only just formed as they came out. “There’s something still there. You can’t deny that.” “And you?” He looked at me, a slight frown in place. “You really mean

everything you say about threesomes? About not being bothered about mine and Edward’s history.” “You know I mean it. I wear my heart on my sleeve. If I’m not happy with something I’ll tell you. If I want something I’ll tell you.” I rubbed his knee. “So don’t look so tense. Life is meant to be fun some of the time, you know. Just go with the flow. Enjoy your day at the beach.” I hesitated. “Look, turn around, face the sea and I’ll do your back.” I reached for the lotion. “You can admire Ed as I do so.” He said nothing but duly sat on the end of the lounger facing the horizon so I could set about rubbing protection onto his broad back. His skin wasn’t as dark

as Ed’s but still held a healthy golden glow that went with his blond hair perfectly. Today, with his hair a bit over long he looked more like a surfer dude than a world-class computer expert and fully trained fighting machine. But unlike a chilled surfer he was tense beneath the surface of his flesh. I eased out a few knots beneath his shoulder blades and ran the tips of my fingers down his spine. He groaned quietly, then, “That’s nice.” “Let it go, the tension,” I whispered into his ear, then kissed his temple. “Forget work, it’s just here and now. Nothing else but the sun, the sea, the waves…us.”

“I know.” “And Edward is pretty good at switching off by the looks of it.” “He never switches off.” I watched Ed emerging from the waves, shiny and sleek and his body hair flattened to his chest and legs. The swimshorts were plastered to his groin, the half-leg tat seemingly extra dark now the sun was making the un-inked skin gleam. He was a vision of perfection for a girl like me who had a fondness for the military type whose bodies looked like they held more opportunities for sin than was humanly possible. “Bloody hell,” I muttered. “Fucking hell,” Coben said quietly.

“He’s doing it on purpose.” “What?” “That, this…fucking Daniel Craig thing, Bond, walking out of the sea looking irresistible.” Coben chuckled and I finally felt him relax a fraction beneath my palms. “Yeah,” he said, “he always was good at playing the game.” “What game?” “Making everyone want him, for their own reasons of course.” “But he hasn’t always had everything he wants.” “Why do you say that?” Coben half turned to me, squinting in the sunshine. “Because he didn’t get you.”

“He did for a while.” “But not forever. Not the way I have you.” He smiled. “You certainly do have me. I’m all yours.” “And a little bit his.” I twitched my eyebrows and looked up as Ed’s shadow engulfed us. “That was good,” Ed said, reaching for a towel. “Been in warmer seas but I’ll take the English Channel over them all.” “Why?” I asked, moving back to my own lounger. “When you could be anywhere.” “It’s home.” He held my gaze for a moment, then buried his face in the towel and rubbed.

“Yep, something nice about being on home ground when you’ve been away,” Coben agreed. “Too right.” Ed dropped the towel on his lounger and sat. “Want a drink?” Coben asked. “Sure.” Coben passed him a can of Coke. “Did you only pick up Coke?” I asked. “Er…” Coben looked in the coolbox. “Shit, yeah, sorry.” “Oh bugger. I put lemonade out too.” “You don’t like Coke?” Ed asked. “No, it gives me palpitations.” I tutted. “Silly really when I can drink wine like it’s going out of fashion, but

give me a cola and I’m fluttering like a butterfly.” I laughed. “It’s okay, I’ll go for a wander and buy myself something.” I indicated up the beach. “No, I’ll go.” Coben stood. “It’s my fault. I should have picked it up.” “I think maybe I forgot to get it out of the fridge, thought about it but didn’t do it.” I stood too, my feet sinking into the fine sand. “It’s okay, though. I don’t mind a stroll. We’ve been sitting in the car for ages. You two start on the sandwiches. I’ll be back soon.” “You sure?” Coben asked. “Yes.” “I’ll go if you want,” Ed said, giving a nonchalant shrug. “Seriously, I’m quite capable of

wandering up the beach and getting a drink.” I reached for my purse. “Anyone want anything?” “I think we’re good,” Coben said, indicating the full picnic basket. “Everything I can think of is in here except for lemonade.” “Okay, see you in twenty.” I donned a straw hat, then wandered down to the shoreline, planning on walking on the harder sand that would be easier for my journey. I didn’t glance back. I wanted the men to have a few minutes together. I felt Coben needed to assess the lay of the land, find out why Ed had agreed to join us—if he was brave enough to ask, that was.

It took me a while to find a shop that sold what I wanted but soon I was wandering back to our little hideaway with the sun beating down on my shoulders. The crowds thinned as the dunes came into sight and I was glad of the dulling of the sounds of the busy promenade and the excited children. I was lost in my own thoughts, enjoying the feel of the waves washing rhythmically over my feet, tickling my ankles and fizzing around my toes. When our windbreak came into view I angled away from the shore and headed back to the men. The breeze caught my hair and I enjoyed the freshness of the air after a week in the city. As I rounded the end of the

windbreak I paused. Coben and Ed were sitting on the same lounger, mine, the one in the shade. They were side on to each other, their feet in the sand, their shoulders just touching. Beside them lay the remnants of some of the savory snacks I’d added to the picnic basket. Ed had his head bent low, apparently absorbed in burying his toes. Coben was looking at him. Something had just been said. I had no idea what. “Hey.” I held on to the pole that supported the windbreak. “Things get too hot in the sun?” Both men looked up quickly. Coben unknotted his fingers.

“Yeah,” he said, “hot.” I took a seat opposite them, mimicking their position. “So what are you chatting about?” Ed studied me, a steely look in his eyes. I held his gaze. “Something you can’t tell me, right?” I smiled. “I get the picture.” “Sian,” Coben said with a frown. I popped the ring on my can of lemonade and took a long drink. Once I’d swallowed the refreshing liquid I smiled, hoping to lighten the situation I’d walked in on. “There’s a lot to admire here.” I pointed to Ed’s tattoo. “So much going on. Everything is significant, you said.”

“Yes, it all means something to me.” He hitched the hem of his shorts a fraction, revealing the full wingspan of the bird I’d added. It wasn’t quite healed but it looked as though it was doing fine. “The M and D,” I said, “Mum and Dad, am I right?” He smiled. “Yeah, that’s an easy one.” “And this,” Coben said, hovering his index finger above what looked like a tornado with palm trees on either side, “is a reminder of Afghanistan.” “You have a good memory,” Ed said, looking at him. “Yes.” Coben paused. “I have.” Where you’re concerned, Coben, I wanted to add but held myself back.

“And this new one, the one I did?” I asked instead. “A recent…expedition.” “I like it,” Coben said. “Couldn’t have been easy.” “Never easy, but always possible.” Ed leaned back, his hands behind him and his elbows locked. I wanted to ask what hadn’t been easy, because it obviously meant more to Coben than it did to me, but I knew they weren’t likely to explain. Instead I allowed the C above Ed’s knee to catch my eye. It was nestled in ivy leaves and beneath them was the image of a heart broken in two. The halves had jagged edges, like a jigsaw pulled apart. A C? With a broken heart? Was it

a symbol of having loved and lost Coben? Curiosity ate me up. I suddenly had to know. “What does the C stand for?” I almost but not quite touched it as I once again pointed. Ed was silent. I thought he wasn’t going to answer, then, “Someone.” “Someone you loved and lost,” I said, purposely not looking at Coben. “Why would you say that?” Ed asked, the barest trace of a frown etching across his brow. “Because there’s a broken heart beneath it, wrapped up in these ivy leaves and tendrils. It’s like the C and the cracked heart are bound together by the branches.”

“Perceptive,” Ed said, the right side of his mouth twitching into a halfsmile. I swallowed. My heart was pounding. I was going to do it. I was going to lay the cards on the table, point out the elephant in the room. It had to be done. “Does the C stand for Coben?”

Chapter Six “Sian,” Coben snapped, his eyes narrowing. I swept my tongue over my bottom lip. I’d said it now, put forward the question. It couldn’t be taken back. “Why would you think that?” Ed asked, looking as cool as ever and not glancing at Coben despite the fact Coben was also staring at the C and the heart. Is he making the connection as well? “I just…sense something between you two.” “Oh?” Ed raised his eyebrows. “I really think—” Coben started.

“I really think I need to be in the loop here, guys.” I shrugged. “You’ve got to admit, you’ve acted pretty strange together.” “What do you mean?” Ed gave a small laugh. “Well, at the Sterns’ you acted like complete strangers, more than strangers, like two men who held contempt for each other, but then yesterday you were best buddies drinking beer around a BBQ. And now…” I paused. “I come back and find you all cozy and close and sharing a picnic.” I tried to keep my voice soft and understanding because I did understand. Equally I recognized the need for Ed to only tell me if he wanted to.

“I don’t know about cozy. We were just sitting in the shade…” Coben said, his words trailing off as Ed reached for my hand and pressed it between his. He stared at our connection and sighed. “Tell me, Sian. What loop do you think you’re being kept out of?” I tipped my chin. “You and my husband. There is something going on that’s more than ex-comrades.” “Like…?” “Like that C on your leg. It’s not for Caroline or Catherine or Carrie, is it?” He gave me a look that I would imagine, for anyone being interrogated by him in a hostile situation, would have

been terrifying. But for me it was intriguing. I was the interrogator, not him, and I wanted him to open up and be honest with me, because he could. I was safe territory. “I think it represents my husband,” I went on, “who I love with all my heart.” I glanced at Coben. He had his head tipped and wore a deathly serious expression. I wondered if he wanted the conversation to continue or stop. I calculated he wanted it to continue otherwise he would have drawn me up before now. He knew me well enough to know what I was alluding to and what I would soon be saying. Maybe he wanted me to be the one to say it. Perhaps that’s how it had to be.

“I’m pleased Coben found a good woman to spend his life with.” Ed filled my pause in conversation, dodging around my statement. “Thank you, we’ve committed to each other till death do us part. However…” “What?” Ed asked. “We both have pasts. We both have desires, fantasies, hopes for the future.” “That’s how it should be. You’re very lucky to have each other.” “We think so. But the thing is, Ed.” I turned my hand within his and wrapped my fingers around the edge of his big palm. “Those pasts are colorful. They’re erotic. They’re also not a secret between

us.” “Secret?” “Yes, we tell each other everything.” For the first time Ed gave away a sign of discomfort. A small nerve twitched in the corner of his right eye, just once, almost like a wink but not one he’d controlled. “Edward,” Coben said. “I…” “What did you tell her?” Ed turned to Coben. As he did so he untangled his hands from mine and placed them on his thighs, fingers spread. “Nothing…she…” Coben reached for Ed’s hand, the one nearest him. “Guessed.” “No one has ever fucking

guessed.” Despite his harsh words his voice was still low and he let Coben hold his hand. “No one has ever known me as well as she does.” Coben shook his head. “The moment she saw us together, the moment I saw you in that room…” He shut his eyes and pressed his lips tight. “I knew…” Ed pulled in a deep breath. “What? You knew what?” “That this…us…it would get complicated.” He raised their joined hands. “Us? There is no us.” Ed pulled his fingers away and clenched them. Coben looked down at the sand. “Yes there is. I can’t be around you and

not be affected by you, Edward. It’s the way it’s always been.” He set his attention on me as though judging my reaction to his words. It wasn’t news to me. Their effect on each other was crystal clear, palpable, as was their unspoken history. But it was obviously still a difficult thing for them to admit to. “It’s not complicated,” I said. “It’s perfectly simple.” “It’s never been simple.” Ed shook his head. I was relieved he didn’t sound angry, just resigned. “This.” Coben traced the letter C on Ed’s thigh. “You didn’t have it the last time I saw you.”

“But you know how I’ve always added to this artwork, so you’re not surprised.” “No. I’m not surprised.” He touched the broken heart beneath the letter. “And it hurt me too when we had to end it. I missed you. I missed what we’d had, the connection.” He lowered his voice. “I was in love with you.” My heart went out to my husband. He was being so brave, wearing his emotions on his sleeve, giving permission for the past to be spoken about, not just between them but also in front of me. Ed frowned. “This is hard, you know.” He looked between me and Coben. “I’m not used to talking about

this, about what we had, what we were back then. It’s been locked in here for many years.” He clenched his fist and banged it on his chest. “It’s never been talked about.” “But you can trust Sian,” Coben said. “We can discuss it openly with her. In fact I need to. She’s my wife. I’ve kept all this buried for years but now it’s surfaced again, it needs to be out into the open, between us three. I’m a package now. That’s what marriage does. It binds two people together, and we, Sian and I, we can’t have secrets.” He paused. “And if it makes you feel any better, I’d trust her with my life. The way I’ve trusted you with my life in the past.” “Yeah, I saved your ass on more

than one occasion.” “I returned the favor,” Coben shot back. They shared a look and I wondered what god-awful situation they were remembering. “You can trust Sian,” Coben repeated. “I give you my word.” “I give you my word too,” I said. “Besides, I’m not in the habit of discussing intimate details of my life with other people. It’s between Coben and I, and if you’re part of that intimacy then that’s also confidential. My lips are sealed. I understand the need for discretion, especially in the line of work you do and Coben once did.” Ed was quiet for a moment, then,

“Thank you, Sian, that makes me feel better. But I’m not ready…” “To come out?” “No, it’s not that. There’s no need to come out. I’m not gay. There’s only ever been Coben. I’ve never…never been with another man.” “You haven’t?” Coben seemed surprised. “Not even since…?” “No, only you.” Coben cupped his cheek. “Really?” A small thrill went through me. They were making progress. I could sense it. They were talking about them in front of me. “Yeah, really. Guess you ruined me for all other men.” Ed huffed but

managed a small smile. They were silent for a moment, just looking at each other. “There was a woman,” Ed said suddenly. “Helen.” Coben nodded, just a little, and removed his hand. “What happened?” Ed frowned and glanced at his thigh. He touched a rosebud on a thorny stem that grew up his outer thigh. “She couldn’t hack it. The job, you know.” “Yeah, I’ve seen it happen to others.” “It was just too much to expect of anyone. I called it a day. I was dragging her down, making her life a misery. There’s no other way to describe it.” “I’m sorry.” I shook my head.

“Really sorry.” He kind of shrugged. “It was for the best. I wasn’t there, couldn’t tell her where I was, when I’d be back, when I’d be going again. Don’t get me wrong, when we were together it was a blast, a really hot fucking sexy blast. What we had was intense.” He half smiled. “But the black places she went to when she was alone, worrying about where in the damn world I was. No one should have to go through that. Imagination is worse than reality and it was worse for her being left behind agonizing about me than it was for me out there getting shot at and hunted and ducking and diving.” He touched the scar on his face. “It was worse for her than me,” he repeated.

“I’m sorry if you really cared about her, that you lost her,” Coben said. “She was totally heartbroken, but not like me. I’d ripped away the one thing I’d enjoyed coming back home for. The one thing that got me through shitty nights sleeping in ditches, hiding out in rat-infested caves. When we finished that one sweet thing I had was gone.” “How long were you together?” I asked. “Two years and two months. We were at the stage it was commit with a ring and all that, or split.” Coben nodded. “It’s got one of the highest divorce rates out there, your profession.” “I know, and I didn’t want to put

myself or Helen through the agony of divorce, and it would have ended that way, or her going insane with worry. I didn’t want either on my conscience.” “And are you still in touch with her?” I asked. “No.” He looked steadily at me. There was sadness in his eyes. “Clean break, it’s the only way to handle these situations. Like ripping off a Band-Aid, just got to do it and forget about it.” “The way we did,” Coben said. “Yeah, except as you just pointed out.” He turned to face Coben. “Now it’s got a whole lot more complicated.” Coben leaned closer to him. He set a soft kiss on Ed’s tanned shoulder and lingered for a moment as if savoring

skin against his lips. Ed’s mouth parted slightly. He shut his eyes. I watched, fascinated by the simple connection. The display of affection that wasn’t overtly sexual and was only the tip of the iceberg of what these two men had between them. But yet held so much tenderness—tenderness that wouldn’t be normally associated with so much brawn and muscle. Three children running past with a ball suddenly caught my attention. Their shouts and cries of delight were highpitched and echoed around our small hideaway. “Hey, you two. There’s a ball in that bag. Why don’t you play volleyball or something while I eat my

sandwich. We’re supposed to be having fun, after all, not being so serious.” Ed straightened and looked at the kids who were racing away from us and kicking up sand behind them. “Yeah, you’re right. Come on,” Coben said, reaching into the bag I’d indicated. “Not that Ed stands a chance. I am a volleyball king.” “Yeah, right.” A sudden grin sliced over his face. “I seem to remember hammering you in the past.” “Only because you had Lofty on your team. No one could get anything past him. His head was in the clouds.” Ed chuckled and followed Coben to a flat piece of sand about twenty meters away.

After reaching for a coronation chicken wrap I settled back in my shady spot. I was content to watch the men flexing their muscles as they raced for the ball, lobbing it over an imaginary net above a sand drawn line. Ed laughed as he missed a shot. His face was now a picture of relaxation after the tension of minutes ago. Either he was really good at hiding his feelings or, like Coben, he relaxed after he’d gotten something off his chest and using up adrenaline with physical activity was a bonus. And he had opened up. A lot. I hated that Ed had walked away from two people he’d loved and I hated that Coben had missed this person who was

so special to him for so long. How could he not have told me? For a moment I was hurt by that, a small dagger that twisted in my side. But then I hadn’t told Coben everything about myself—who did? I’d tried a golden shower with an ex—wasn’t really my thing but he’d enjoyed it. Once I’d gone down on a guy in the theater. Miss Saigon, if memory served me right. It was so boring I had to do something to spice up the evening. I hadn’t shared those facts with my husband. Not because they were secret, but because they didn’t make any difference to us now. Is that how he’d always viewed his relationship with Ed? Something that

didn’t matter to us? Well it damn well did now. Which, thank goodness, was why he’d told me. I took another bite of my wrap, my emotions settling again. I saw Coben race for the ball, hands clenched together in a thick fist, the muscles in his back tensing as he hurtled through the air and reached it just in time. He flicked it up, ten…fifteen feet, in Ed’s direction. Ed laughed at Coben flattening in the sand, then scooted forward, speeding to send it back into the sky before it hit the ground. He made it and the ball went so high I squinted as I watched it eclipse the sun. The ball held suspended for a

split second before plummeting back to earth. They both went for it, missed their target but collided in a thud of thick muscle and broad chest. “Ah fuck,” Coben shouted, falling to the ground, a wide smile on his face. Ed dropped to his knees, laughing also. A giggle tightened my stomach and jiggled my breasts—two grown men, the weight of the world on their shoulders, playing on a beach with a ball and having a great time. Two men. My men. I shook my head. What the hell was I doing? They weren’t my men. Well one was.

But it was all too easy to imagine them both as mine. I reached for a pack of cherry tomatoes and popped one into my mouth. They were playing again, their limbs now sand-coated and their cheeks red. Coben’s shorts had slipped low, showing off the delectable indents at the base of his spine, just above the first rise of his buttocks. I licked my lips and reached for another tomato. Had Ed kissed him there? Tasted the sweet saltiness of his flesh in that perfect spot? I had, many times. I wouldn’t like another woman to…but Ed? That was really fucking sexy. My nipples were tingling, their

hard points pressing against my bikini top. Oh to have been a fly on the wall when they’d been together. It would have been so sexy to see them…doing it. Doing the things that men in love did together. Would they be wild and rough or would they be sweet and slow? Did they have a preference for who gave and who received? I shifted on my lounger. The need for sex, the need for an orgasm, was growing. I hoped Coben would be in the mood for getting hot and sweaty later, with me, in bed. For another twenty minutes or so the men hit the ball backward and forward. They were covered in sand and sweat and after rolling the ball my way, I

saw Coben suggest a swim. I picked up my book but found rather than reading it I was peering over the top, watching them as they plunged into the waves. They surfaced and Coben’s laughter caught on the breeze. The sound headed my way, quickly followed by Ed laughing too as he sent an arc of water over Coben’s head. A big splashing match ensued, the water churning as they kicked and flicked water at each other. Had they ever been able to have fun like that before? Were all their memories of sneaking around and keeping their time together undercover, censoring laughter? I smiled as I watched them. I

adored seeing Coben so relaxed after his crazy week. Not just the last week, when I thought about it, but for a few months now. Work was busy, which was good but it meant he was going at full steam. He really needed his down time. Relaxation was good for him. Eventually they stopped swimming and splashing and walked out of the sea and up the beach. Fuck. They were hot. Big, shiny bodies, honed and toned in all the right places. Swimshorts clinging to their groins and leaving little to the imagination. If I’d been turned on before, now I was buzzing for it. If only we were at home.

“Hey, you’re still awake?” Coben said, grinning and walking up to me. “Yes, I’ve been reading.” He stooped and set a kiss on the tip of my nose, dripping all over me. “Hey,” I said, holding my book out to protect it. “Watch it.” He glanced at the drips on my cleavage, then shook his head with vigor. I was showered with seawater. “Stop it!” I squealed, pushing at him. He laughed harder and did it some more. The drips were cold on my hot skin. “Coben.” He straightened, fun glinting in his eyes. “Couldn’t resist.”

I laughed and reached for a towel. “I’ll get you back, when you least expect it.” He swiped up two cans of Coke and tossed one to Ed. “Here you go.” “Thanks.” Ed caught it and stretched out on the end lounger. He didn’t bother to dry off and his skin was peppered with drips that sparkled in the sunshine. He took a long drink, set the can aside, then settled back, hands behind his head, elbows out to the side. He shut his eyes. Coben opened his own can and sat on the middle lounger. He looked over at me. “You okay, babe?” “Yes, of course. You?” “Yeah.” He looked thoughtful for a

moment. “Yeah, I really am.” He reached his hand out and I took it, gave it a squeeze. We didn’t need to say anything. I knew he was thanking me for how I’d handled the situation, and I was letting him know I was there for him, that I loved him. That whatever was happening between him and Ed was fine by me. He released my hand and guzzled the rest of his drink. Like Ed, he rested back and shut his eyes. His chest was still shifting faster than normal as he caught his breath. A comfortable silence washed over us and I was content to pick up my book and read as the men relaxed. A gentle breeze blew through the

whispering grass and the heat of the midday sun seemed to quieten the distant crowds. The constant ebb and flow of the waves continued and it wasn’t long before the sound of Coben’s slow, deep breaths told me he was asleep. I set my book down and sat, needing to stretch my spine after sitting for so long. I glanced past Coben to Ed. I’d thought he was asleep, like Coben, but he wasn’t. He’d swung his legs round and was sitting hunched on the edge of his lounger, elbows on his knees, watching Coben sleep. He saw me looking at him and clasped his hands together. “Everything all right?” I asked quietly.

He nodded. “Sure.” “Thanks, Sian,” he said, tipping his head and studying me. “For what?” “For getting it. Not many wives would.” “I’m not like the others.” I twitched my eyebrows. He grinned. “I can tell.” He directed his gaze to Coben again. I didn’t reply. I wondered if he’d say more. “I honestly never thought I’d see him again,” Ed said, almost in a whisper. “I remember, that last time we…were together. Watching him sleep, like this, and trying to take a photo with

my mind’s eye, something to remember when life got too damn ugly to want to carry on, so that I’d have something special to pull me back from the edge when I went there.” Coben was indeed a very handsome man. He’d certainly pull me back from the edge if I were in a dark place. “So now what?” I asked, checking we weren’t disturbing Coben. His breathing hadn’t changed. He was still asleep. “What do you mean?” Ed frowned. “I mean what do you want from my husband now that you’ve seen him again?” “It doesn’t matter what I want.”

“Of course it does.” “No, we’re long since over and now he’s yours, Sian. There’s no room for me. It’s about you two, your marriage, your love and commitment. I’ve appreciated today. It’s been fun, but…” “Why does there have to be a but?” “One thing I’ve learned. There’s always a but.” He half shrugged. “No, not here, not now, not today.” His brow furrowed as though he was confused. “The thing is, Ed.” I pulled in a deep breath. “What if I’m willing to share?” “Share?” He spoke a little louder,

then quickly flicked his attention to Coben to make sure he hadn’t woken him. He hadn’t. “The thing is,” I went on, “Coben and I are solid. What we have is built on good foundations, love, trust, commitment and, well…there could be room for you too.” “I don’t know.” He shook his head. “What don’t you know?” My heart rate went up. Had I really just said all that? “It could all go really fucking wrong. I don’t want to be responsible for any shit happening between you two.”

Coben twitched his arm and batted at a bug on his biceps. He opened his eyes. “Huh,” he said. “Bloody flies.” He looked between us. “What?” “We were just chatting,” I said. “About?” “You.” I stood and dropped a kiss on his lips. “All good I hope?” He grinned up at me. “Of course.” I turned and reached into the picnic basket. “Anyone want more food? There’s loads left.” I started to place pots of dips and cakes and crisps on the blanket at the end of my lounger. “Yeah, I’ll go for some more of those sausage rolls,” Ed said. “If there’s

some left.” “Sure.” I passed him a couple. “Coben?” “Crisps, please.” I tossed him a pack and helped myself to a cake with lemon icing. As I ate I listened to the men’s conversation about old colleagues. They chatted about Camp Bastion and the state of the food there. The topic moved to weapons, then bikes, then politics. I finished my cake and rested back. Before I knew it their deep voices were lulling me into a doze. My limbs felt heavy, my skin the perfect temperature with the warm air stroking over me. Their conversation grew quieter, their words molding together.

My thoughts became disjointed as sleep engulfed me. I dreamed of the ocean, of the sun and the birds soaring in the sky. I heard the grass singing as it swayed, saw a wave of beach balls rolling down the beach, skittering in the wind with children chasing after them. The balls turned to horses, galloping swiftly through the water’s edge. I was mounted one, holding tight to the mane, loving the feel of its power between my thighs, the excitement of speed. Eventually it slowed. I dismounted and stroked its muzzle, my feet sinking in the deep sand. The horse was speaking my name. “Sian, Sian…” “Mmm…”

“Sian, wake up. It’s getting late.” A pressure on my shoulder. I opened my eyes. Coben was above me. “What?” I asked, my throat a little dry. “It’s getting late. Time to pack up and head home.” “Oh, okay.” I stretched and yawned. My joints were stiff, my muscles a little tight. I must have slept for ages. “Here.” He handed me a drink. “We’ll sort this lot out. You sit for a minute and come round.” “Thanks.” I glanced at my phone. It was nearly five. “You went out like a light,” Ed said, shaking a towel. “I guess I was tired.”

“And relaxed,” Coben added, shoving the ball away. “Yeah. I guess so.” I sat and watched as the men, quick and with military efficiency, packed everything up. Ed piled two loungers onto his back and loaded his arms and hands with bags and towels. “Ready?” Coben asked. He too was loaded like a pack horse. My only duty, it seemed, was to walk. “Yes.” He quickly folded my lounger with his free hand and we headed into the dunes. I glanced back at our little spot. The sand was flattened and the shadow

of a gull slipped over the smooth spot the picnic basket had made. But other than that it was as if we’d never been there. As if the momentous discussion we’d had, memories made, had been a dream too. But they hadn’t been a dream. I knew that. And something inside told me this was just the start of something that could be very special. If only everyone was brave enough to say what they wanted and take that chance.

Chapter Seven “So now what?” I asked, dropping my purse into the car. Ed had pulled on his leathers and held his helmet poised over his head. “Stop at a restaurant?” Coben suggested, patting his stomach. “I’m getting hungry again.” “I don’t fancy eating while I’m all hot and sandy,” I said, brushing several grains from my arm; I could feel them nestled between my toes too. “How about we just hit the road for home and I’ll rustle us up some pasta or something. You up for that, Ed?” “I don’t know. Might just head

back to my place. I’ll need a shower after this trip on the bike.” “You’ve got to eat,” Coben said. “And we’re really modern. We have a shower at ours.” He grinned. “Come on.” “If you’re sure?” “Yes,” Coben said. “See you there.” “Tell you what.” Ed glanced at the crawling traffic. “I’ll head back to mine, shower, then come round. I’ll make this journey in half the time it will take you.” I groaned and glanced at the traffic. “Yeah, you’re right.” “I’ve got a nice bottle of whiskey that Major Wilkins gave me a while back,” Ed directed at Coben. “I’ll bring

it round. We’ll toast him.” “He would have liked that,” Coben said, nodding a little soberly. “See you in a bit. Drive carefully.” “Always.” Ed rammed on his helmet, then swung his leg over the bike. He brought the engine to life with a growl, bent forward and raised his feet to the pedals. As he steered out of the car park he slotted down his visor so he blended in with his all black bike— except for the shiny chrome exhaust. Coben stood close to me as we watched him pull out into the traffic. The engine roared and he shot off, squeezing between two long lines of queues. The noise of him tearing up the gears sang in the air, and several people nearby turned

to look. He went into a bend and leaned low. Then he was gone from sight. “Does he always drive like that?” I asked. “Yep.” Coben wrapped his arm around my shoulder and pulled me against him. “He lives life in the fast lane. That’s one thing that will never change about Edward.” **** We headed back toward London. The congestion thankfully cleared once we hit the motorway and we probably only lost twenty minutes in the Brighton tangle of traffic. “Did you enjoy your day?” I asked Coben as we entered the city. “Yeah, it was nice. You?”

“Perfect.” I paused. “I enjoyed seeing you so relaxed, enjoying Ed’s company.” He glanced at me. “It was a good idea to invite him. He needs days like that when he’s on leave. Gives him time to push everything out of his head, you know.” “I can imagine.” “Mmm.” “He seems to have accepted me knowing about your history together.” “He didn’t have much choice. Besides, he knows I wouldn’t have married someone narrow-minded or a gossip.” “Well I like to think I’m neither of those things.”

“You most certainly aren’t.” He reached across the gear stick and gave my thigh a quick squeeze. “You’re the best and I love you more and more each day.” I smiled as a warm feeling flooded my chest. Coben often told me he loved me but I never tired of it. “I spoke to him, about you two, about us.” “What do you mean?” He held the wheel again and navigated around a bus that was pulling over. “I told him maybe there was room for him to spend time with us.” “You did?” “Yes.” “And what did he say?” “That he didn’t want to mess

anything up between us.” “I can imagine him saying that. Like with Helen, the woman he was with before, he won’t have it on his conscience making someone else unhappy, wrecking something good.” “Do you think it would…if we invited him into our bed? Into our lives?” Coben was silent for a moment. “When we talked about our threesome fantasy before, a hired cock, I wasn’t sure how much I liked the idea of another man touching you. You’re my wife, mine, but Ed…?” “It would be different with Ed?” He glanced at me. “Yes. It feels more natural…” He huffed. “Don’t ask

me why and maybe I’d see it and not cope but at the moment, the thought of all three of us, together, it’s really fucking sexy.” He grinned suddenly. “I agree.” I shifted on my seat to look at him. “Maybe we should see if we can make it happen?” “I guess it all depends on him. If he wants to.” “I think it’s fairly safe to say he wants you, Coben. He can’t take his eyes off you. Whatever was between you is still running very deep.” I smoothed my t-shirt. “But maybe he doesn’t find me attractive, and—” “Nonsense, what man wouldn’t find you attractive?” He sounded incredulous.

“Well, you know.” “You’re the most gorgeous woman to have ever lived and don’t you forget it. And no matter what happens, I’m going to thoroughly enjoy showing you later just how much I adore worshiping you and your delectable body.” “Well, I like the sound of that.” Coben pulled onto our street and parked up. The sun was still shining and as Coben unpacked the car I headed up for a longed-for shower. I shampooed and conditioned my hair, getting rid of all the grains of sand that had caught there on the breeze. It felt good to wash away the heat of the day but I still felt hot inside. It was a

combination of anticipation, excitement and sexual tension. I also kept thinking of Coben and Ed together on the beach, in the sea. Their big beautifully sculpted bodies shining in the sunlight, the way they looked at each other, how they’d spoken of the past and all that could potentially be in the future. The future. There was no denying the fact that if Ed didn’t agree to spending the night with us, soon, I’d be disappointed. It was ruling my thoughts, feeding my fantasies and stoking the fire within me. I wanted to see my husband with Ed, feel myself surrounded by them, watch Ed let go of some of that fierce control he appeared to have over himself at all

times. I switched the shower off and dried. Applied coconut body lotion, which reminded me of holidays in the sun, then blasted my curls with the hair dryer. I carefully chose an outfit of a short cotton skirt and loose white top to look casual yet still, hopefully, sexy. Added a long silver necklace, a squirt of perfume and a slick of lips gloss. I checked my reflection in the mirror. Despite sitting in the shade most of the day I still had a hint of a tan and my cheeks and legs held a nice color. “You’ll do.” I headed down the stairs and into the kitchen. Coben was at the sink. “Hey,” he said, “I started

chopping.” He indicated a pile of onions and mushrooms. “Great.” “I’ll go shower now,” he said, dropping a quick kiss to my cheek. “Mmm, you smell nice. Reminds me of us being in Barbados last year.” “Same coconut cream,” I said, running my hand down his chest. “Go, be quick, Ed will be here soon.” “Yep, I won’t be long.” He left the room and I turned to the stove, set a pan of water to boil, then hunted for the pasta. Before long I had a carbonara all set to cook, part baked bread waiting to go in the oven and the table set. But as I got it all ready I realized that I wasn’t

particularly hungry. Well, I was hungry for something, but it wasn’t food. It was men. Satisfaction. I wanted the fantasy. I wanted it all. Coben’s footsteps banged on the stairs at the same time the doorbell went. Ed was here. I let Coben answer the door, and while I waited I tucked my hair behind my ears and brushed a few creases from my top. “Hey,” Ed said, ambling into the kitchen a step behind Coben. “Looks good.” He smiled and indicated the food. “So does this.” Coben held up a

bottle of amber liquid. “Want one now.” “Yeah, might as well.” Ed leaned on the wall farthest from me and crossed one foot in front of the other. “You have a good trip back, Sian?” “Yes, easy, Coben drove.” I took in Ed’s casual outfit. Faded jeans worn in all the right places and a black t-shirt that was tight enough to highlight his muscles and flat belly but not so fitted it looked like a second skin. He too had caught the sun and his arms and cheeks were golden. His short hair was superneat and almost the same length as the stubble that now coated his jawline. “Your drive okay?” Coben asked, reaching for a couple of tumblers. “Yeah,” Ed said with a shrug and

shoved his hands into his pockets. “Wouldn’t be without my bike.” “I remember that time, in Kandahar, when you were riding past…” Coben started. Ed tilted his chin and his eyes narrowed slightly. “Yeah, that was a bit close for comfort.” “What happened?” I asked, helping myself to a glass of wine. Coben glanced from Ed to me, then back. “We were trying to help out a translator, one of ours but native descent. He’d gone home and we were worried his identity had been leaked to the community. Things could go have gone tits up for him, so a group of us were sent to get him.”

“And did you?” “Yeah,” Ed said. “We got separated from the main group, though, Coben and me, ended up backed into some shit hole with a mob of angry bastards out for our blood.” A shiver ran up my spine. I hated to think of either of the men in my kitchen in such a dangerous situation. “Only way out,” Coben said, adding a hefty splash of whiskey to each glass. “Was down the main street but there were too many hostiles about. We ended up grabbing a crappy motorbike from someone’s yard and just charging our way through and hoping for the best.” “Was crappy but it worked. The

bike, that is.” Ed took the drink Coben handed him. “Got us the hell out of there.” “Yeah, you did.” “Both of you were on one bike?” I asked. “Didn’t have a choice.” Coben nodded at Ed. “But I let him drive. He always took more risks than me and at that moment, we had no options other than risky ones so I figured he was the most experienced.” “You could have done it,” Ed said. “No sweat.” “We’ll never know. The fact is you did, and that’s why we’re here today.” Coben smiled and held up his glass. “To Major Wilkins.”

“Yep, to Major Wilkins, one of the most thoroughly decent blokes I’ve ever had the pleasure to salute.” Ed clinked glasses with Coben. “And that was the last tour we did with him.” “What happened to Major Wilkins?” I asked, wondering as I spoke if I should be inquiring. “IED,” Ed said. “Fucking things.” He knocked back his drink. Coben did the same, smacking his lips together as the burn hit. “Yeah, fuckers.” He topped them both up. I watched as they sank the next drink in time, their gazes locked. “Shall I do food?” I asked. Coben didn’t answer. Neither did Ed.

“Fucking hell,” Coben said. “I can’t do this anymore.” He set his drink down with a bang, then stepped up close to Ed. He took the glass from his hand and whacked it on the table. In one quick move he had both of Ed’s arms pinned to the wall, his hands spanning Ed’s thick wrists. “What can’t you do?” Ed asked, his posture going from relaxed to tense and his fists clenching. A flash of excitement crossed his face. “What do you want, Cobe?” Despite being trapped he tilted his chin defiantly. A coil of delight unwound in my belly. Sexual tension simmered in the air. I could almost smell the testosterone. “What do you think I want?”

Coben’s voice was a low growl. Ed glanced over Coben’s shoulder at me. His eyes glinted. His lips were slightly parted. I gave a small nod. He could give Coben what he wanted. It was all cool with me. I wasn’t just words. I could back what I’d said up with actions. “Tell me,” Ed said again, diverting his attention back to Coben but allowing himself to stay pinned to the wall. “What the fuck do you want from me?” “It’s more what I need,” Coben said, pressing his body to Ed’s, their chests and groins coming into alignment. Ed groaned and his arms twitched against the wall. He flared his fingers for a moment, then clenched them into

fists again. “We always knew it would be dangerous,” Coben went on, his voice hoarse and brimming with emotion. “To see each other after we ended it. That’s why we moved on. We went separate ways because this was too much to contain.” “Yet our paths have crossed again,” Ed said, his attention set on Coben’s mouth, and his eyes heavy. “And it seems you have a very understanding wife.” “She’s the best,” Coben said. He suddenly pushed forward harder. He released Ed’s wrists and captured his cheeks. Ed quickly grabbed Coben’s

shoulders and pulled him closer. From where I was standing, holding my wine, I could see their big jaws touching, their temples working and their chests pressed together. It was a hungry, desperate kiss, one that had been held back for too long. I held my breath for a moment, then blew it out. So many times I’d thought of this, of seeing Coben kiss another man, and now it was happening. And it wasn’t just any other man. It was Ed. A man he had history with and a man I wanted to get my hands on just as much as Coben did. “Ah, Jesus,” Ed said, breaking the kiss. He appeared a little dazed. “Did that really just happen?”

“You better believe it,” Coben said, pressing his mouth to Ed’s again. Ed ran his hands down Coben’s back and cupped his ass, drew him nearer with his palms. They both moaned, low and guttural. I could just imagine their hard cocks jutting against each other through their clothes. Coben finally broke the kiss and turned to me. “Come here, babe.” I placed my wine on the counter and walked over to them. I was so turned on my legs felt weak and my pussy swollen. I wanted to be part of it, get in the middle, be kissed and touched —satisfied.

“What?” I asked, drawing up beside them. Coben set a kiss on my lips. He tasted a little salty, different to how he usually did—it was Ed’s sexy flavor mingled with whiskey. “I want you to be part of this.” “Me too.” I smiled. “You two are hot together.” “Yeah,” Ed said, placing his palm on Coben’s cheek. “Worried I might combust in a minute, though.” He closed his eyes and kissed Coben again. I saw the sleek stroke of his tongue and heard the scratch of their stubble, the wind of their breaths. Coben pulled back. He took hold of Ed’s t-shirt, at the base, and tugged it

up. As his belly, chest and underarms were exposed I was bowled over once more at his beauty. Ed really was a perfect male specimen—if I ignored a few dinks and dents on his battle-worn torso, that was. “Maybe we should…” Ed started. “Take this to the bedroom?” Coben finished, tossing the t-shirt aside. “Yes,” I agreed, “we should.” Coben reached for my hand, then Ed’s, and led the way. We walked up the stairs in silence. My shoulder brushed Coben’s and I stared at Ed’s sneakers moving in time with my feet. This was really happening. I was a ball of excitement, all my senses heightened. We went into the bedroom that

was now bathed in shadows as dusk approached. “Are you sure?” Ed asked. “There is no going back after this, once we’ve…” “We’re sure.” I looked up at Coben. “We’ve talked it through,” Coben said, peeling off his t-shirt. “Tonight we want you to be the third in our bed.” He slipped his arm around my waist and pulled me against his side. “If you’ll have us.” “Do you even need to ask?” Ed glanced between us. “I’m a horny soldier home on leave.” He reached for his belt buckle and undid it. Coben reached for his too, quickly

releasing it and shoving off his jeans. “You’ve got too much on,” he said, turning to me. I realized I’d been standing there dumbly yet happily watching their striptease. It was perfunctory. There was no seduction in the way they were peeling away layers, kicking off shoes, yet it was incredibly sexy. They had to get naked, get down to business. I undid my skirt and slipped it down my legs. The sight of Ed’s cock had me distracted for a moment. Thick and dark, it jutted up from a riot of black pubic hair. His erection was full mast. He was clearly eager to begin. “How long has it been?” Coben asked him, kicking his underwear to one

side. “Five years since a man,” Ed said, putting one hand on his hip, clearly not concerned about being undressed in front of Coben and I. “Since a woman, well, a guy has needs…since my last leave.” “Someone special?” “A one-night stand.” He paused, then shrugged. “I’m good at those.” Coben frowned and reached for him. He dragged him into a tight hug and kissed him hard. Their bodies were aligned. Their hands searched each other, exploring dips and rises, smoothing over buttocks. Everything in their touch screamed this was so much more than a one-night stand. This was something that had to be done, that

would linger long after the sun rose. As I tugged off my top and unhooked my bra I thought of braille and how they seemed to be reading each other’s bodies, perhaps reminding themselves of stories from the past. Quickly I relieved myself of my knickers. The men moved to the bed, tumbled onto it and stretched out, their limbs long and thick on the soft covers. I adored the sheer quantity of muscle, their craving for each other, the privileged position I was in to be here sharing it. “Fuck, you haven’t changed,” Ed said. “So fucking hot for it.” He rolled over, pushing Coben to his back. “Always, for you,” Coben said.

He looked my way. “Babe, come here…” He held out his hand. I took it and slid onto the bed next to them. My heart was galloping, my pussy wet. So much skin, so much desire. The erotic moment was a bubble only we were living in. “Ah yeah.” Coben gasped as Ed slid his hand low, lower still and gripped his cock. “Fuck…your hands…” He looked down at where Ed was now holding his shaft. He turned to me. “God, his hands, and you…” I bent and kissed his nipple and also wrapped my hand around his cock, settling it over Ed’s. We set up a steady push-pull motion. “Shit…that’s so much,” Coben

said. “Both…of you…ahhh…” He pressed his shoulders to the bed and thrust his hips up. “You’re gonna have to have more stamina than that,” Ed said, a smirk spreading on his face. “We’ve only just begun.” Ed was so big and wide, his muscles bulging. He was acting cool but the glint in his eye told me he was toying with the idea of losing control and just fucking—hard. The thought thrilled me, but equally I wanted to savor the moment. I let go of Coben’s cock and ran my hand over his chest, snuggled against him with my breasts pressing close. “Just enjoy,” I whispered and kissed his nipple again.

He kind of sighed but it ended on a gasp. Ed was moving down the bed, pushing Coben’s thighs wide. He’d settled low, the way I did when… Fuck, he’s going to suck him. I reached between my legs and pressed my clit. This was so intense. Was it really happening? I was wet. Wet and hot and so up for it. Coben half sat. He was panting. “Lie back,” Ed said, looking up at us both. “And listen to your wife, Coben…just enjoy.” He angled Coben’s erection straight up and swirled his tongue over the top, around the glans and through the slit. Coben bucked, his body jerking. “Ah, God, I can’t…”

“Of course you can,” I soothed, not taking my attention from Ed. He had his eyes closed. His sensual mouth was moving with skill and his big hands were rubbing Coben’s cock. “Jesus,” Coben said. “Sian, babe…” “What?” I stroked his hair. “Tell me.” “Sit on me, my face, fuck I want you too.” He tossed his head from side to side. I stroked over my clit. It was engorged, so needy for stimulation. The sudden offer of Coben’s tongue was impossible to resist. I maneuvered onto my knees and

gripped the headboard, my back to Ed. Coben groaned and grasped my thighs. He arched his spine and neck. “Ed…Sian…I…” As I spread myself over his face, knees either side of his head, I twisted and had one more look at Ed. He’d stretched his mouth wide and taken Coben to full depth. Was this the famous “deep throat” Coben had talked about? How Ed did it differently to me? “Sian,” Coben said again, his breath warm on my thigh. “Give me what I need.” He clasped my thighs harder, his fingers digging into my flesh. It always seemed so lewd this position, legs spread over my husband’s face, his nose a great place to rub my

clit. We didn’t often indulge but today it was perfect. Ed was giving Coben oral, Coben giving it to me. Perhaps I’d be able to return the favor to both of them… soon. Coben flicked over my clit. I clutched the headboard and sank lower. He used his tongue like a stubby cock and probed my entrance. In, out. In, out. In, out. I shut my eyes, locked my arms and let my head fall back. “Give it to me.” I gasped and shifted my hips, rocking, gyrating, taking what he gave me with his mouth. The whole scenario was building me up so fast—my husband, bucking beneath me in pleasure, the third in our

bed—Ed—fucking gorgeous Ed, deep throating Coben. “Oh God,” I groaned. “More.” Coben shifted his attention to my clit and at the same time shoved two maybe three fingers inside of me. “Oh yeah,” I moaned, grinding onto him. My orgasm was building fast. He knew exactly what to do with his tongue, and from this angle it was wickedly strong, right on target. I felt moisture wrapping around his fingers. The scent of my arousal drifted upward. “I’m coming. Ah…I’m coming…” He seemed spurred on by my gasped words but equally distracted. I wondered, for a second, what Ed was doing to him now. My climax hit. Short,

sharp and strong it was like a punch in the guts, a glorious punch that sent shock waves of bliss through my pussy, my clit, over my ass and up my spine. I lurched forward, rocked back, my clitoris bobbing on Coben’s tongue. “Coben, oh fuck, yeah, Coben…” He hooked his fingers forward, massaged my G-spot and took me through the exquisite pleasure he’d created. I struggled to catch my breath, it was so intense. After several swift flicks of Coben’s tongue that tipped me into super-sensitivity, I lifted off him, rolled to my side and panted for oxygen. “That was so…” Coben again arched his back, the

tendons in his neck stretched taut as his head pressed into the pillow. His mouth was shiny with my cum. His eyes were shut tight and his teeth gritted. I quickly rested my hand over his forehead, pressed my breasts against his arm. “Come, come for us,” I said hotly. I looked down at Ed. He was up on his knees, ass in the air, long back sloped. He had Coben deep, his face buried in Coben’s pubic hair. One hand was between Coben’s legs. I wasn’t sure if he was cupping his balls or playing with his anus. “Ah…fuck, it’s here…” Coben gasped. He shot his hands down, clasped Ed’s head and thrust his hips upward. His abs were a row of bricks. His chest

expanded as he gulped in air and held it. I too caught my breath. My skin was tingling, my pussy still trembling with aftershocks of my own climax. Coben released a long groan, so deep it was almost animalistic. He was coming low in Ed’s throat. I knew how he sounded when he came. I’d heard him a thousand times. And this was a good one. He was lost in the moment, surrendered to pleasure. I kissed his chest, his neck, licked over his cheek and tasted myself and his sex-hot flavor. “Give it all,” I whispered. “Give it all to him.” “Ah, yeah…” Coben said. His eyes sprang open. He stared straight at me, then used one hand to grip my hair

and kissed me wildly. Our tongues tangled, our teeth clashed and our breaths were hot and hard. Suddenly Ed was there too, his mouth near ours. Coben spread his lips over Ed’s and they kissed as I peppered adoration on Coben’s face, enjoying the sounds and textures of their faces against mine. “So fucking good,” Coben managed. “Tell me about it.” Ed pushed up and locked his arms either side of Coben’s chest. His erection was thick and bloated, tapping against his belly. Coben reached for it, gripping it

just below the glans. “Ah, yeah, do me,” Ed said, a frown plowing over his brow. “With pleasure.” Coben set up a swift movement, jerking Ed’s cock, the head appearing from his fist each time he hit base. “Oh, God, fuck yeah.” Ed gasped. His tense muscles were trembling, his face taut with the need for release. “Come,” Coben said breathily, “on me.” “I will…on you…so fucking good…” I curled my hand around Ed’s bicep. Heat and power poured from him onto my palm. Excitement swarmed inside me as I saw his slit expand and

the first slap of semen burst from him. He groaned long and loud as it landed on Coben’s abdomen. He ducked his head as if watching for more. It came, a pearly rope that hit next to the first. “Yes, yes…” Coben gasped, his hand working so fast on Ed’s cock it was a blur of movement. “Ugh.” Ed grunted, then dipped and captured Coben’s mouth with his. He dropped his body too, forcing Coben to release his cock. They held each other close, Ed’s spunk no doubt basting their bellies. I tweaked my nipple and was aware of my heart racing, my pulse loud in my ears. The whole experience, of us

all coming, was so hot, so sexy. I stroked my hand down Ed’s back, tracing the indent of his spine right to the slope of his buttocks. He lifted up and turned to me. “How are you handling us?” he asked, breathlessly. “Not shocked.” “Nah, you guys are amazing.” He dropped a quick kiss to his shoulder, the way Coben had done at the beach. He grinned and rolled off Coben, rested on his side with his elbow bent, propping up his cheek. Coben blew out a long breath and reached for me, wrapped me against his body. “Fuck, that was intense.” He set a kiss on my head. “Good intense,” I said.

“Mmm…” Ed traced a circle around Coben’s nipple before heading lower. When he got to the sticky patch of cum he smeared it some more, dipping into Coben’s navel, then tickling through his thick pubic hair. “Very good intense.” Coben’s stomach suddenly made a loud rumbling sound. Ed placed his palm flat over it and looked up with a smile. I laughed. “Have you worked up an appetite, darling?” He chuckled. “I reckon I have.” “I’ll go and get the dinner on as I’d planned.” I shifted but Coben didn’t release me. “What?” “Don’t go.” He pulled a pouty face.

“But you’re hungry. I am too. I’ll go and get food organized.”

Chapter Eight I wrapped a silk dressing gown around my naked body, enjoying the feel of the slippery material on my skin, and headed down the stairs. It only took a few minutes to get the water boiling and the pasta in. As it cooked I had a large glass of water and thought about what had just happened. The men were so into each other, their need acute after so long apart. I wished I’d had a little more intimate connection with Ed, though, a kiss, a stroke, a touch of his cock. Maybe he’d stay the night. Perhaps he could fuck all night, fuck both of us.

Coben had stamina and a quick recovery time. Maybe Ed did too. He certainly looked the sort who could hammer out orgasms over and over. After draining the pasta I added creamy sauce, ham and the fried mushrooms and onions. “Dinner,” I called from the kitchen doorway. No answer. “Dinner!” Still nothing. I retreated to the kitchen, pulled out a large pine tray and set three bowls on it. I shared the pasta out and topped it with Parmesan cheese. After gathering three forks I headed up the stairs. We’d have a picnic in the bedroom. It was

easy to eat, good energy food and we needed our strength for the night ahead if it was going to go the way I’d planned. Pausing at the door, I looked in. Coben was on his stomach, head on the pillow, facing away from me. Ed was still resting on his side with his head on his palm, elbow bent. His free hand smoothed over Coben’s sexy ass, cupping the orbs, then slipped between his butt cheeks. He hadn’t noticed me. I continued to watch as Ed’s fingers dipped deeper between Coben’s legs. I was sure he was stroking over Coben’s asshole. Coben whimpered. “You know I want to fuck you,

right?” Ed said, kissing Coben between the shoulder blades. He kept his lips hovering over Coben’s skin. “God, yeah,” Coben muttered. “Soon, real soon I’m gonna fuck you right here.” As he’d spoken his hand had shifted. Coben let out a groan. His fists clenched and his toes curled. Oh God, he’s fingering his ass. “Good and hard, just how you like it,” Ed went on. “And with your pretty wife watching too. She’ll see how you can take it, how you come so fucking hard with dick in your ass.” “Yes.” Coben twitched his hips. “Yes, Sian too…” “Maybe we’ll both fuck you,

Cobe, then you’ll know how adored you are, how bloody sexy you are. Irresistible.” He pushed harder at Coben, clearly penetrating higher. “We can’t resist.” I stepped into the room. I wanted to be part of it. Plus Ed was right. Coben was irresistible. He had that certain something many men lacked. A lack of vanity on top of devastating good looks, plus a body as made for climbing mountains and swimming oceans as it was for fucking. Ed must have heard my footsteps. He looked up but didn’t move his hand from between my husband’s thighs. “We were just talking about you.” Coben shifted his head on the

pillow. “Good.” I licked my lips and looked pointedly at where Ed’s hand was. “I’m glad.” Ed grinned, pressed another kiss on Coben’s back, then withdrew and stood. His cock was engorged. “You brought dinner.” He nodded at the tray I held. “Yes, I called but no one answered. I guessed you were otherwise engaged.” I twitched my eyebrows. Ed chuckled and walked past me to the en-suite. “You could say that.” Coben rolled over and looked at me. Like Ed he was hard again. His cheeks were flushed. “I think you might need to eat

before you get shown just how irresistible you are,” I said with a smile. He wiped the back of his hand over his forehead and studied me. “You sure you’re okay with this?” “Yes.” I set the tray on the end of the bed. “It’s really fucking intense for me so it must be for you too.” “Intense yes, sexy as well. It’s what we wanted.” He sat and tucked a lock of hair behind my ear. “I want him, but I want you too, more than ever. Do you understand that? You accepting me, so completely, my needs, my desires, it’s off the scale sexy.” I nodded. “I get it.”

“Good, but so we’re clear nothing and no one will ever replace you, or my love for you.” He cupped my breast through my sheer gown. “I’ll always want you with everything that I am. You’re my soul mate.” “But he is too.” “Ed is…back on the scene. Can we not label him?” “Fine by me.” I swept my lips over his. The tap in the en-suite turned off and I reached for a bowl of pasta. “Naked dinner,” I said, handing Coben a bowl. “Lots of firsts tonight.” “I’m not complaining.” Ed walked back into the room, his cock bobbing in front of him.

He was so at ease with his nakedness around us, well…me. I got that he and Coben had been naked together in the past, but we were new, we hadn’t even… “Here,” I said, averting my eyes from his impressive member. “Cheers.” He took the meal that had a fork sticking out of it, sat on the edge of the bed, then began to tuck in. “This is good,” Coben said between mouthfuls. “Well it’s only just thrown together.” “It’s bloody delicious.” Ed gave me an approving look. “Nothing better than homemade food created by a pretty woman.” His mouth stretched into a

smile. Damn the man was a heartbreaker. How could one person be so fucking tough, so amazingly sexy and also such a charmer? He had sin in his eyes yet he carried it in such a way that breaking the rules seemed like the best option—the most appealing path to take. I could see why Coben had been so enraptured all that time ago. And why he was again now Ed had strutted back into his life like a whirlwind of deliciously bad ideas. “I’m glad you approve of the meal.” I started on my own dinner. “I more than approve.” Ed swiped his tongue over his bottom lip, catching a speck of cream. “And not just the food.”

For a moment we were quiet, just eating. Then Coben set his bowl aside. He’d eaten so quickly, almost inhaled it. He rested back on the pillow and took his cock in his hand, began to lazily masturbate as Ed and I ate. Sexual tension simmered in the air. I was eating but barely tasting. What I really wanted was the flavor of man in my mouth, the sensation of male bodies around me, in me. I finished my pasta. I didn’t want it all. I stood, set my bowl on the tray on the floor, then reached for the knot on my gown. Both men were watching me. Slowly, so slowly, I undid the knot, letting the silk slide against itself.

The soft brush of the material was the only sound for a moment. The gown fell open and I let it slip from my shoulders so I too was naked. Coben let out a low whistle. “Mmm, dessert.” He held out his hand. I took it and crawled onto the bed next to him, aware of my breasts swaying. “Good idea.” Ed abandoned his dinner and moved onto his knees on the mattress. Coben scooped me close, chestto-chest, and set a kiss on my lips that tasted of the pasta he’d just eaten. His cock butted against my thigh and I spread my legs, wanting him to find my entrance and ease in.

Suddenly he tipped me, and I landed on my back, his big body pressing over mine. Ed’s was next to him. They were both smiling down at me. “Oh, we’ve got ourselves a hot one,” Ed said, touching his lips to my cheek. I turned my head for more. I wanted him on my mouth, his tongue, his stubbled chin grating on mine. But he’d moved and was peppering kisses on Coben’s neck. “I want to make you come, babe,” Coben said to me, his eyes full of desire. “With my cock.” “Yes.” Again I spread my legs. His tip prodded my pussy and I

gripped his shoulders, pulled him closer. “Mmm,” he moaned, easing in the first few inches. I held my breath, enjoying the stretching sensation. “Yeah, you fuck your wife, Cobe.” Ed skimmed his touch over my hands, then lower down Coben’s back. “And I’ll fuck you at the same time.” “What?” I gasped. “Oh, God,” Coben groaned. Ed laughed, but it was strained and tense. “Yeah, our own special threesome.” Coben shoved his hips forward, hitting full depth. I shut my eyes. The feeling of him buried so deep was dense. It filled me,

consumed me. He found my mouth, kissed me. His breaths were coming hard and fast. Was he excited? Anxious? I just wanted to feel it all, experience everything. I’d thought if the men fucked I’d be watching, but this, I’d be in the erotic moment with them. I’d see it, feel it, be in it too. “Where’s that lube gone?” Ed asked, the mattress shifting. He fumbled on the dresser. “Got it.” Coben broke our kiss and glanced over his shoulder. “Ed?” “What?” Ed was on his knees, adding clear gel to his fingers. “Just be…”

“Yeah, I know, she’s delicate. It’s okay, I’m not a total Neanderthal.” He tossed the lube aside. His hands disappeared from my view and he bent his head as though concentrating on what he was doing. Coben hissed in a breath and returned his attention to me. “Is he touching you?” I asked. “Ah, fuck, yeah.” “Your ass?” “Where else…ahh…” he moaned. “Jesus.” “You’re going to have to loosen up, man,” Ed said. “If you’re going to take my dick without screaming down the neighborhood.” “I thought he was touching you

there when I was downstairs?” I rubbed Coben’s shoulders soothingly. “Yeah, but then I wasn’t in you, and now I just want to…fuck, I’m ready to go.” “Relax,” Ed said again. “There’s no rush.” Coben fluttered his eyes shut. He pulled almost out of me, then rode back in. “That’s what you think. My cum is burning me up inside.” He dropped lower and his chest scratched my breasts, rubbing my taut nipples. My clit absorbed the deep pressure his body had applied. “Ohh…” I held him tighter and shifted my legs. Normally I’d wrap them around his hips at this point but my right leg caught on

Ed. “That’s it…” Ed said, resting his hand on my thigh. “Keep like that…” A tremble ran down Coben’s back. I smoothed it away and again met with Ed, my fingers running over his as he held Coben’s ass cheeks wide. I dipped lower, intrigued, and bumped into Ed’s knuckles. He was deep inside Coben, stimulating him, preparing him. “Oh God, Coben.” “I need it.” Coben gasped. “Now, Ed…” Ed pumped his fingers into Coben, fucking him gently with them. Coben groaned and eased in and out of me. He seemed to be on sensation overload, barely controlling his body.

He nestled his face in my neck, his breaths hot on my skin. His cock was so hard inside me, engorged. I didn’t think he’d last long like this. I looked over his shoulder at Ed. His eyebrows were pulled low and his shoulder was shifting as he worked Coben. “Ed, I think you should if—” He withdrew. “Yes.” He grabbed a condom and rolled it on. He quickly lubed up his cock. “It’s time.” He moved over Coben and I, his weight on just one arm, biceps bulging. I parted my legs wider and Coben followed suit, his thick thighs butting into mine. “That’s it.” Ed looked down at

where he was about to penetrate. “That’s it, now let me in.” Coben had his fingers meshed in my hair and I felt my scalp tingle as he clenched his fists. Ed frowned and pushed forward. “Oh God,” Coben groaned. “Shh…” I whispered against his ear. “It’s what you wanted.” “Fuck yeah.” He raised his head and stared into my eyes. “Sian, it’s so…” “Good?” I asked, shifting my hips so I got more stimulation on my clit. “Yeah, ah fuck…” He clenched his jaw. “Ah, man, I’m in…” Ed said, then dropped forward so his chest was on

Coben’s back but he was still supporting his weight on his hands. “Bloody tight fit, though.” “More,” Coben demanded, half twisting to look at him. “You always were a greedy bastard,” Ed murmured, setting his mouth against Coben’s temple, then shutting his eyes. He sank deeper into Coben. I knew he was because his action and his weight shifted me, pushed Coben deeper into me, harder onto me. “Ah yeah, fuck, I’m so fucking full of you both,” Coben said. His brow was shiny with moisture, the tendons in his neck strained. “More,” I demanded, cupping both

Ed and Coben’s cheeks. “Give me more…” “Yes, ma’am,” Ed said, his voice low and husky. “Whatever you say, ma’am.” The pace suddenly picked up and we rocked, thrust, shoved and ground against one another. Ed was in control, being the one on top, and when he pushed to full depth into Coben, Coben’s cock butted up against my cervix and he pressed onto my engorged clit. “More, harder,” I shouted, “I can take it.” I remembered what Ed had said about being careful, but I wasn’t a delicate princess. I liked a good hard fuck as much as Coben did. I wouldn’t break and the odd bruise didn’t scare

me. “Don’t fucking tempt me,” Ed said, shoving in with more vigor. “Ah yeah,” I groaned. “Yes, yes, yes, like that.” God, the pressure, the heat, it was so much. “Oh God, I’m gonna come,” Coben said, releasing my hair and reaching to hold Ed around his neck. “You’re both…gonna make…me come.” I reached up and held his face. Our bodies were rutting together, his dick stimulating my G-spot. “Yes, yes, I’m coming.” Bliss exploded and swept around my convulsing body. The two shunting soldiers above me picked up speed, ramming me up the

bed. I twisted my legs around Coben’s, clutched for Ed’s shoulders and cried out. Coben released a loud, long wail and erupted inside of me. Ed grabbed Coben and kissed him hard, both stretching their necks to make their mouths connect. I continued to convulse as Ed came too. He didn’t shout out. It was like he’d folded in on himself, or into Coben, but I knew he’d come as he held his breath. His lips stopped moving against Coben’s and he forged forward, harder, faster with more determination than before. Coben dropped onto me. Ed followed suit.

They both grunted loudly. The breath was knocked from my lungs, their combined weight too much. I tried to expand my ribs but couldn’t. I was low on oxygen from my climax, my pussy still spasming and pleasure swarming over my skin. I felt myself floating, little black dots in my vision. “Ugh…” I managed and bashed my fist on Coben’s arm, once, twice, three times. “Shit. Sorry, babe,” Coben said, instantly lifting off me. I pulled in a long, deep breath. The black dots receded. My body felt cool as Coben raised onto his arms, taking Ed up with him. “It’s…okay,” I panted. “But

combined…your weight is about…three of me.” “At least,” Ed said. He stroked his hand over Coben’s head, moved the hair from his ear, then kissed the shell. “You finished?” “Fuck yeah, finished off.” He grinned. “I think you two just blew my mind.” Ed chuckled. “Well that’s your dick and your mind blown, probably enough for one evening.” He pulled back. Coben’s mouth hung slack and he shut his eyes. I stared at him. I knew that feeling of cock slipping from asshole. It was sexy and satisfying after an orgasm but

there was always a moment of loss too. Ed dropped to the bed, making it shake. He let his arms fall folded over his chest. “Did you come good, babe?” Coben asked, opening his eyes again. “Yeah.” I slid my hands over his shoulders, up the column of his neck and held his cheeks. “Really good.” “Mmm, me too.” He set a kiss on my lips, then collapsed on the bed next to me so he was in the middle. My breasts were rising and falling fast as I continued to pant. My skin was tingling, my pussy wet with Coben’s release. I rested my forearm over my head and studied the pale cream ceiling light that was shaped like a flower. Had

we really just done that? Yes. And it was amazing. Coben had loved it. I’d loved it, and Ed had fitted in so perfectly. Maybe next time I’d get to be in the middle, sandwiched between them, cock in my pussy and my ass. “You haven’t been letting your wife play with strap-ons, then,” Ed said suddenly. “I can tell. You’re still so tight and hug me like an elastic band.” A giggle burst from my mouth. It was the last thing I’d expected Ed to say. Coben chuckled too. “No strapons, but only because she hadn’t got round to suggesting it. She would have…” He smiled at me indulgently. “Eventually, and then the answer would

have been yes.” “Really?” I raised my eyebrows. I’d never thought of it. Him using one on me, yes, to fulfill the double penetration fantasy, but I’d never thought about playing with his ass. I should have, though, knowing that he had a thing for men too. “Really, you would have let me?” “Oh, babe, when do I ever deny you anything?” He cupped my breast and tweaked my nipple, pulling it to an even firmer point. Ed stood and tugged off the condom. He walked to the bathroom and both Coben and I watched him go. He had such a cute butt. Small, high, indented at the sides and his thick tattoo

that wrapped almost the whole way round his thigh suited him so well. “Does it feel good to be back with him?” I asked quietly. “It feels good to be with both of you.” He stooped and flicked his tongue over my nipple, leaving a damp sheen on it. “Indulgent, I know, but damn I didn’t think I was going to stop coming.” “Yeah, there was a lot of tension there,” Ed said, suddenly standing next to us again. His face and hair looked a little damp, like he’d splashed himself with water, and his cock was deflating. “You gonna lie back down?” Coben asked. “No I might…you know…” He jerked his thumb over his shoulder. “Hit

the road.” “You don’t have to,” I said. “You’re welcome to stay here, with us.” “Well, I don’t know. You…this is your bed, your place.” “And we invited you into it,” I said. “I…” Coben held out his hand. “Stay… please. We want you to.” “Are you sure?” “Yeah, and besides, it’s getting late now, plus you had a few drinks, shouldn’t be driving.” “Weak arguments, it’s not late and a couple of drinks an hour or so ago is fine.” “How about we don’t want you to

go,” I said. “Is that a strong enough argument?” Ed pulled in a deep breath and rubbed his palm down his cheek. He looked at Coben. “We don’t, I don’t,” Coben said, wriggling his fingers as if encouraging Ed to take them. “Well okay.” He took Coben’s hand and slid onto the bed again, pulling up the thin duvet and covering himself to his waist. Coben flicked the material over himself and me. I settled against him the way I always did, my head in that perfect dent below his shoulder. Ed turned to us, holding his and

Coben’s linked fingers in the air. “Thank you.” “For what?” Coben asked. “Well this was going to be a shitty leave, nothing planned except getting a tat and dinner with the Sterns, and now…now here I am, with you.” He swallowed, as though containing emotion, then pressed his lips to Coben’s in a long, lingering kiss. He pulled back, a slight smile on his face, before tipping over Coben to me. My heart rate picked up. Was he going to kiss me? Was I finally going to feel those soft lips on mine? Stroke my tongue against his? He dropped a sweet kiss to my forehead.

A twang of disappointment tugged at me. I knew Ed and Coben had the history, but I wanted him too, and I wanted him to want me. I should have some of his kisses. He settled on the other side of Coben, still holding his hand. I rested my palm on Coben’s chest, wrapped my leg over his and blew out a long breath as I watched Ed close his eyes and sigh. “You tired now?” Coben asked me. “Yeah.” I closed my eyes too. “All that sea air.”

Chapter Nine I must have gone into a deep and dreamless sleep, barely moving, because when I woke I was still on my side, my limbs stiff and the pillow creased under my cheek. The bed was empty, both men nowhere in sight. I yawned, stretched, then headed into the en-suite, wondering where they were. It was a holiday Monday. There was nowhere to be for me or Coben. But what about Ed? Feeling sticky and a little tender between my legs, I decided to shower. After quickly pulling my hair up into a

ponytail and turning on the faucet, I stepped in. I soaped up, rinsed and within a minute was drying. After brushing my hair and teeth I pulled on blue sweats and a white t-shirt— deciding to go braless because I knew Coben liked that. Will Ed? I headed down the stairs, pleased I could smell coffee and hear the rumble of their voices from the living room. After grabbing a mug and filling it, I headed in. They were sitting opposite each other. Ed on the big sofa and Coben on the soft armchair I kept angled next to the fireplace. Coben wore just his jeans and his feet were bare. Ed had on his jeans,

top and shoes. “Morning,” I said, breezing into the room and sitting on the arm of the chair Coben was in. “Hey, babe,” he said, wrapping his arm around my waist and kissing the tip of my shoulder. I saw him glance at my nipples, firm and poking at my tshirt. “Sleep well?” Ed asked. He was holding a mug and as he brought it to his lips I noticed his attention slide to my chest. Ah, good, he’s not immune. “Yeah, you?” “Mmm.” He drained his mug and stood. “I have to get going, though. Just wanted to say goodbye to you before I

went.” “Have you eaten?” I asked. “Nah.” He set his cup on a coaster on the table. “I’ll get something out.” “Are you sure, I—” “It’s okay,” Coben said, giving me a squeeze. “Edward’s got stuff to do.” “Oh, okay.” Ed shoved his hand into his jeans pocket and pulled out his keys. He spun them around his finger. “So, er…thanks, I’ll be seeing you.” He took a step toward the door. Coben stood. I could feel tension coming from him. “Edward, I…” Ed turned. “It’s okay, it was one night. I get that.” “I can’t.” Coben ran his hand

through his hair. “I can’t…please don’t just walk away again.” Ed looked from Coben to me. “I don’t want you to go either,” I said. “Last night was freaking awesome, happy for a rerun and…” “What?” he asked. “And what?” “Coben knows you really well and I guess I’d like to get to know you better too. Please don’t feel we don’t want you about the place. It doesn’t have to be a one-night stand if you don’t want it to be.” He smiled then, one of his lovely big wide smiles that went right to his eyes and sent creases shooting out from the corners. “Well, how about I take you both out tonight. There’s a nice Indian

not far from here. I’ve been there before. You still like Indian right, Coben?” “Yeah.” His shoulders relaxed and he smiled. “That sounds cool.” He turned to me. “Sian?” “Perfect, I’m always up for a night off from slaving away in the kitchen.” I laughed, pleased we’d made another arrangement to see Ed. “Great, I’ll catch you later, then, about eight.” Then he was gone from the room. The front door opened and shut and within a minute his bike had growled to life. In three fast changes of gear he blasted out of earshot. “Fucking hell,” Coben said, sitting down again with a bump. He put his

hands over his face. “You okay?” I was slightly alarmed by his sudden reaction. “Yeah, fucking hell yeah, but…” “What?” “It’s all so much, so fast. Edward, in our lives, in our bed, dinner tonight.” He pulled his hands away and looked at me. “Don’t forget a few days ago I never thought I’d see him again. Wasn’t even sure if he was alive.” He shook his head. “I’d buried it, what we had, everything that we did. It was the only thing to do with it but now…” “Now it feels like an explosion.” “Yes, that’s exactly how it feels. We used to be so…so intense, yet so secretive and now with you here it feels

easier, right, as if this is what I was waiting for…as if this is what fate was waiting for…you.” “That’s nice to hear you say.” I set down my coffee, then sat on his lap and stroked his hair flat again. “But, are you sure, I mean, it’s a big thing, Sian, to share me.” I glanced away. “Yes, I’m sure.” He was silent for a moment, then, “Fuck. I know you too well. What is it?” He squeezed me closer. “We’ll call a halt to the whole thing. I’ll call him now. I’m not having you upset, uneasy or unsure for a moment. You’re my everything, babe, I—” I kissed him, his words ending on my lips.

“There’s no but, just a question,” I said. “Fire away.” “Do you think he wants me on the scene?” I glanced at the floor and pulled at a thread on my t-shirt. “Babe,” he said, tipping my chin. “I’ve seen him with plenty of women in my time. He’s a cocky so-and-so, up for the laugh, enjoys the chase, happy to bed ’em and leave ’em. But you…” “What?” “I sense there’s more. He’s slightly in awe of you.” I laughed. “That’s ridiculous.” “It’s not. You’ve got the one thing he couldn’t have.” “Which is?”

“Me.” I was quiet for a moment. “Stands to reason,” Coben went on, “that you’re already someone pretty special to him.” He kissed me. “Plus, I know damn well he thinks you’re sexy.” “I’m not so sure.” I yanked the thread and it snapped. “He just told me as much, so you may as well be sure.” “He did?” That surprised me. “Yeah, why do you think we went quiet when you came in the room?” “I don’t know.” “Because we were talking about you. He likes you, but you wear a wedding ring, my ring. He might be a man who lives on the edge, and he’s sure

as hell dabbled in the gray lines of ethical and moral correctness in the line of duty, but he’s not in the habit of sleeping with married women.” “Not even if you gave him permission?” “Well…I haven’t.” “Coben, but…” “Shh, it’s early days. I told you, I haven’t got a problem with he and you together, not if I’m there too, but there’s only so much fucking a couple of guys and a girl can do in one night.” “I suppose.” “There is, and last night was intense. Tonight likely will be too. So come on, let’s eat. I’ll cook eggs.” “Okay.” I stood and straightened

my top. “About last night. Did you, did he, was it always…?” “What?” “Were you always the one to, you know…?” “Did I always take it?” He raised his eyebrows. “Er…yeah.” “No, we were pretty equal. We both gave as good as we got. Nice not to have to muffle the sound, though. We lived in fear of being heard.” “It must have been so hard.” “Yeah, it was, but it was something we couldn’t resist.” He dragged me close. “Passion is like that, isn’t it? When someone is too damn tempting, not just their body but the

whole person, everything that they are, it’s just impossible not to give into yearning.” He kissed me hard and pulled me close. His cock thickened beneath his jeans. My breasts pressed against his chest, only the thin t-shirt between us. “Before breakfast?” I asked. “Yeah, before breakfast.” He stooped and swung me into his arms. “With you in that wicked top it has to happen before anything else.” Next thing I knew he was stomping up the stairs with a glint in his eye that told me I was going to get it good. Real good. **** Breakfast turned into brunch and we added smoked salmon to our

scrambled eggs. I figured it would keep us going most of the day until we went out with Ed that evening. I pondered on what to wear. Should I keep it demure and elegant? Or perhaps super-sexy so he wouldn’t be able to resist and I’d keep Coben on the edge of his seat all night too? Maybe the best course of action was sophisticated yet with a risqué edge. A formal blouse unbuttoned one too many and with a necklace resting in my cleavage? I had a skirt that was of respectable length but super-tight. That might work with the blouse. Mmm…I had some new black stilettos with silver spiked heels—too much? “What are you thinking about?” Coben asked, looking up from his book.

He was lounging in the armchair by the fireplace and looked all relaxed and gorgeous. “Nothing.” I chewed on the end of my pencil. I’d been sketching some new designs for the shop, something to offer clients that was just a little bit different. But I was struggling. I kept sketching out motorbikes, wings, linked hands, waves —the things that were in my mind. “Spill,” he said. “I was just wondering what to wear tonight.” He smiled. “Whatever you wear you will be beautiful.” “Thank you.” “How are your designs coming along?”

“Not too bad.” I shrugged and placed the pencil and pad on the paper. “Could be better.” “It’ll come to you.” “Yes, I know. Ed’s tat is unique, isn’t it. Lots of personal things on it that he’s built up over the years.” “Yeah, and it’s expanding. Some of it I get, some I know are to do with missions, but only I’d get that, or someone military anyway.” “Don’t you think they’d put him at risk if he was captured or something?” “Nah, they’re very subtle and well hidden. He’s got enough other stuff going on in there for it to be safe.” “Did you expect there to be a C?” He shook his head. “Not for a

minute.” “Were you pleased?” “Kind of, nice to know I was special enough for him to want me immortalized on his skin but…” He paused and rubbed his brow. “I hate that I broke his heart.” “Sounds like you broke each other’s.” “Maybe.” He shrugged a little. “Yeah, I guess, but I found you.” He smiled suddenly. “You patched mine up, made it as good as new. Falling in love with you made my life perfect, complete.” “Yet Ed never found anyone?” “Helen, he talked of Helen, didn’t he?”

“Yes, and it’s sad that he ended it but maybe it was for the best.” I paused. “Do you think he’s planning on always being alone?” “Until he leaves the service.” “But that could be years, ten, twenty. That’s a long time to be lonely.” “Mmm…” I stood and went to the window. It was a little overcast. We’d chosen the best day to go to the beach. The road was full of parked cars. People off work, visitors, the holiday meant most of our neighbors were just taking it easy. I flicked the curtain to one side and opened a small top window. We could do with fresh air. We’d been sitting for ages reading and sketching.

As the breeze came in, with it arrived the low rumble of an engine. It sounded like Ed’s bike but it was hours before we were expecting him. Even so I glanced to the top of the street. Heading my way was a big black bike being driven by a rider all in black. It looked like Ed. I waited another few seconds. The rumble became a roar, then quietened as it pulled into a gap right outside our house. I let the curtain fall back into place and turned to Coben. “Ed’s here.” “What?” “That motorbike, it’s Ed.”

“But?” Coben set his book, fanshaped, on the arm of the chair and stood. “He’s here…” I gestured to the window. Coben strode to my side and glanced out. Ed had dismounted and was tugging at his helmet. He wore a serious expression. “Why do you think he’s come round now?” I asked. Coben shook his head. “I hope it’s not what I think.” “What do you think?” A feeling of dread went through me. “Let’s wait and see.” He kissed the top of my head, then headed out of

the room. I followed him, a million reasons why Ed was here blustering through my mind. Had he decided he didn’t want to take us out for dinner? Maybe he regretted last night and had come to tell us he never wanted to see us again. Perhaps our threesome fun wasn’t fun for him. Coben opened the door before Ed had even pressed the bell. “What is it?” Ed hooked the helmet through his arm and stepped into the hallway. Coben shut the door. “I can’t stay,” Ed said. “Your leave has been cut short, hasn’t it.” Coben hadn’t spoken as if it were a question.

“Yeah.” He half shrugged. “I’m sorry, there’ll be no meal out tonight.” “What do you mean cut short?” I asked, winding my hands together. “I’m back on duty at eighteen hundred hours.” “Today?” “Yes, ma’am.” He managed a small smile. “But can they do that? I thought you had more time off?” “I have, I do, but yes, they can do that.” He stepped up to me and stroked the back of his index finger down my cheek. “It’s the nature of the game.” “But…” “Can’t argue with the Crown and I serve my country every day, whether it’s

a holiday or not. I’ve been sent orders, I’m needed, so I go.” “Go? Go where?” He pressed his lips together and tilted his head. He wasn’t going to tell me. “Will we see you when you get back?” “That depends.” “On what?” I asked. “If you still want to.” “Yes, of course.” He half smiled and smoothed his finger down my cheek again. He stepped up to Coben. “I’m sorry, this kind of shit always fucks plans up.” “Can’t be helped.” “No, it can’t.” “Just be really fucking careful,

okay. I’ve just got used to the fact you’re alive and well.” “Can’t promise I won’t pick up a few scars and stuff but I’ll do my best.” “Do more than your best. Come the hell back to us, soon.” Coben reached out and grabbed Ed’s face. He pulled him close for a hard, fast kiss, then set his forehead on Ed’s. “No risks.” “There’s always risks.” Coben chuckled but it held no humor. “Well okay, can we just agree calculated ones, then.” “I’ve promised you that before.” Ed reached for Coben’s wrists and pulled them away. “I have to go. I didn’t have time to call in here but I wanted to

tell you both face-to-face.” “Thank you,” I said. “And don’t worry.” He looked between us. “I’ll be fine. Not as if I haven’t done this crazy shit a hundred times over.” “Saying don’t worry doesn’t help.” Coben folded his arms and shifted from one foot to the other. “Look after this one for me, Sian,” Ed said, jerking his thumb in Coben’s direction. “He always did worry too much.” “I will.” I stepped up to Coben and wrapped my arm around his waist. “I always do. And we’ll be waiting for you when you come back.” “Thanks for everything.” He

shoved on his helmet. “Memories of last night will keep me going for months.” “You’ll be months?” I asked, alarmed at the suggestion. “No idea.” He opened the door. “I’ll be back when the work is done.” He stepped out and stomped down the three steps to the pavement. Coben stood stiff and silent at my side. I kept my arm wrapped around him, my body pressed against his. Ed didn’t look at us again. He climbed onto his bike, revved the engine, then burned to the end of the street and turned the corner. We waited until the sound of the engine had faded completely before stepping into the house and shutting the

door. “Fuck,” Coben said, leaning his back on the wall and clenching his fists at his sides. “It’s okay.” I smoothed my hands down his shoulders. “Really, it will be fine.” “It’s not okay and how do we know it will be fine?” “He’s good at his job, trained. He’s done it before.” “But it’s so fucking dangerous out there with those bastards. Those scumbags that just want to blow up good men, chop them up, treat them like shit.” “We don’t know he’s going somewhere like that.” “Not for definite but it’s a pretty

good guess.” I reached for his right hand and uncurled his fingers. “Guessing won’t get you anywhere, and remember what Ed said about imagination being worse than the reality.” “Yeah, well I’ve been in those real situations, remember. I know how fucking dicey it gets.” “That was years ago. Things have changed. You don’t know for sure what he’s doing. He might be in the camp just giving orders.” He huffed. “I really don’t think so.” I reached for his other hand and uncurled that too. “Relax. He’s still in bloody London.”

“But not for long.” “And what are you going to do? Be a ball of tension for the next few weeks, month, however long it is? You’ll give yourself an ulcer.” I pressed against him, drawing him into a soothing hug. “And that won’t be good.” He sighed and some of the tension left his body. “I could do without an ulcer.” “You certainly could.” I kissed his cheek. “I need you well. Ed will want you well too, when he comes back. Which he will, soon. He’s just gone to work, that’s all.” “But—” “And someone has to be out there fighting on the front line for Queen and

Country. Might as well be the best of the best.” Coben managed a weak smile. “And when he comes back, when he has leave, we’ll be able to make sure it’s extra special for him, like we did last night. A soldier fighting for the freedom of our country, risking his life, shouldn’t have boring leave. His time off should be packed with awesomeness.” I giggled, the emotions in my chest—the worry, the disappointment that he’d gone, the anxiety of seeing Coben so distraught—burst up and out in an overloud laugh. It was almost hysterical, though I wasn’t prone to that. “Shh…you’re right,” Coben said, stroking my hair and cupping my face.

“We’ll just have to make sure he knows how appreciated his efforts for his country are.” He kissed me, settling my nerves and calming my thoughts. It would all be all right. It had to be.

Chapter Ten The next week went by in a daze for both Coben and I. There were times I wondered if I’d imagined Ed, that his presence in our lives had been a dream. But then I’d spoken to Coben about him, or saw Coben frowning as he stared into space and I knew he’d been very real— so real his presence was still here even though he wasn’t. I went into work and created some wonderful designs, one a portrait that Drake photographed to frame and hang on the wall. He was really impressed with the intensity in the eyes and I wondered if it was because my own

emotions were spinning. I cooked in the evenings because I knew I needed to, not because myself or Coben were particularly hungry but eating was essential. I spoke to my mother about the fete but didn’t really listen to the response and felt so bad about my distraction I sent her a bunch of flowers the next day. My mind was on the other side of the world. The normality of routine no longer normal because I knew it wasn’t the case for Ed. Coben was quiet but not moody or short-tempered. He was just worried. I found myself repeating things to him, ordinary things—I’m sure he did the same to me.

But we were very much together despite that distraction and we lingered over kisses and cuddles and spent the evenings wrapped around each other on the sofa as we watched TV. It was as if our joint worry had drawn us even closer, brought us together in our thoughts. We found comfort in each other’s embrace and I understood how Helen would have turned herself inside out with worry, being on her own multiplying the fear. With no one to talk to, bounce that anxiety onto, someone who “got” it, then I too would have been on the edge. Not being able to tell people why she’d been distracted and worried must have just doubled the intensity of Helen’s terror. She’d had to

keep it all locked up inside and act as if everything was perfectly okay in her world. On the eighth night of Ed’s tour of duty a segment near the end of the ten o’clock news caught my attention. “In Syria today a British hostage was freed from the clutches of armed militia claiming allegiance to IS.” An aerial picture of a dusty street showed shadowy figures rushing from a square building. Just as they turned a corner the building exploded in a puff of sandy clouds. “Brenda Doll had been working with the Red Cross and taken hostage three months ago when handing out food to refugees. A statement of intent to

murder her by the end of this month was issued last week on YouTube if three senior militants weren’t released from a French prison. The official statement is that British Special Forces were sent in when the situation became volatile and negotiations collapsed. One injury to a UK serviceman has been reported. Ms. Doll’s family have expressed their gratitude to the British Foreign Minister and all those involved in her release.” The screen panned to an elderly couple sat in their flowery living room, the woman clutching a tissue. The names Ethel and Derek Doll slid over the bottom of the picture. “We just want her home,” the man said. “Home with us and safe.”

“Bloody hell.” I sat up from where I’d been leaning on Coben. “Do you think that’s Ed’s regiment?” He frowned and pushed to the edge of the sofa. “Probably.” “Wow, I mean…success, then.” “One injury.” He shook his head. “Injury not fatality, that’s good, and this Brenda Doll is free, so it was a success.” I shuddered as a tingle went up my spine. “Poor woman must have been terrified for the last three months.” Instinctively I rubbed my throat, thinking of the awful things that had been on the news in the past. “Yes.” He pushed his fingers through his hair that he still hadn’t gotten around to getting trimmed and shut his

eyes. “What?” I asked. “A unit of six, one injured, no details if it’s critical—” “They would have said. One serviceman critically injured. That’s what they always say on things like this. One injury might be a broken arm or leg, cuts and bruises, nothing life threatening.” “Mmm…” “I’m right.” I glanced at the screen. The weather was on now. Brenda Doll had only been a small mention at the end of news that was full of politics and election campaigns—her freedom wasn’t as exciting as NHS cuts and the promise of a referendum on

Europe despite those who’d risked their lives for her. “He’ll be fine. I can feel it.” “Can you?” Coben half smiled. “Yeah.” I wriggled against him. “And if that’s mission accomplished he’ll be back in London to finish his leave soon, won’t he?” “I suppose so.” “And we can go out for that meal.” I smiled too. It felt good. My cheeks balled and my lips stretched in a way they hadn’t for a while. Worry had made my smiles few and far between, if there’d been any. The corners of Coben’s mouth twitched. “He hated that Helen worried

herself silly about him,” I said. “I know we’ve been worried too, desperately worried, but we have each other. We can be strong together. There’s no secret about what’s on our mind and no reason to try and hide it.” “We can support one another.” “Yes.” I wrapped my arms around his neck. “We can, and when he comes back we’ll be here for him, solid and strong and not be wrecked with worry.” “He’s good at his job.” Coben nodded at the screen. “Yes, so we need to have faith.” He looked at me intently. “You’re right,” he said. “As usual.” He grinned, a gorgeous full-wattage grin. “He’ll be back after a debrief. A few days maybe.”

“Good.” I kissed him and pressed my breasts against his chest. “Is it bed time?” he asked. “Well I’m not especially tired.” I felt light and floaty and also in the mood for sex. “Me neither.” Coben stood and held out his hand. “Come on, Mrs. Wright, I want you naked and under me.” I giggled. “So romantic.” “Yep, that’s what the military taught me about romance.” “Not much, then.” He swatted my ass as I stepped past him. “Bloody cheek, I took you to Paris six months ago.” “So when is my trip to Venice, soldier?”

“I’m taking you to Heaven first.” He flicked off the light, then wrapped his arms around my waist as we climbed the stairs. He kissed my neck, his lips hot on my skin. We had to do this, have our connection. If we didn’t we couldn’t be a solid landing ground for Ed when he came back. “Come here,” Coben said, tugging me to the bed. “Let’s get rid of these pesky clothes.” He pulled off my t-shirt, revealing my bare breasts. I’d done away with a bra when I’d come home from work. “Mmm…” he said, ducking to swipe his tongue over both my nipples one after the other.

I reached for my sweats and shoved at them. They slipped down my legs and I kicked them aside. Coben deftly removed my knickers and they were added to my discarded sweats. “I’ll never get enough of you,” he said, reaching for the base of his t-shirt and pulling it off. “I know the feeling.” I smoothed my hands over his flat belly, delighting in the trail of hair that led down from his navel. I tugged at the buttons on his denims. “I want you more each day.” “And Edward?” “You know I want him too, but I’m not the only one, am I?” “No, but…”

“But?” I asked. “But if you want him too then we need to get you ready.” His eyes glinted with something I hadn’t seen before. “What do you mean?” He took off his trousers, removing his boxer briefs with them. “Coben?” I asked, watching as he gripped his erection and smoothed his thumb over the slit. “What do you mean get me ready for him?” “Well,” he said, stepping up close to me and placing the thumb of his free hand beneath my chin. “Remember your fantasy?” “Yes.” “One cock in your pussy, one in your ass…”

“Yes.” “So how long is it since I fucked your ass, babe? And I don’t mean my fingers, I mean my cock.” “I…I don’t know.” I couldn’t be sure but I thought it might have been on my birthday back in March. “Months.” He swept his lips over mine. “Which means you’re out of practice. We need to make sure you’re ready for both of us. Edward and me fucking you.” “Yes, you’re right.” A tremble of anticipation went over my ass cheeks and my anus quivered at the thought of what was to come. I adored it when Coben and I indulged in anal sex and it seemed it was on the menu for tonight

and would be even more in the future. He smiled. There was something a bit predatory about his expression but I liked that. It made me excited, like I was really and truly his and always would be. “Come on.” He led me to the bed. “Lie down.” I did as he’d asked and watched as he retrieved lube from the drawer in the bedside cabinet. He placed it on the side of the bed, then lay next to me, drawing me into his arms. “Edward and I have both got big dicks,” he murmured against my ear. “It won’t be easy, you’re little and tight, but we’ll make it good for you. I’ll make it good for you. I promise.” “I know.” A rush of adrenaline

released inside of me and my skin felt hypersensitive. “Are you wet just thinking about us both buried deep?” He slid his fingers between my thighs and stroked over my pussy. “Yes…” I gasped as he pushed into me and the heel of his hand caught on my clit. He kind of chuckled against my cheek. “Oh yeah, you are.” For a few minutes he fucked me with his hand, arousing my clit and getting my juices flowing even more. I clung to his big, hard body and breathed in the warm scent of his skin. I bucked upward, rocking against his palm and seating my pussy on his fingers.

“God, I want to come,” I said, my face buried in his neck. “And you will, but not like this. Turn over.” He withdrew and nudged my hip. “Onto your side.” I did as he’d instructed and rolled over, drawing my upper leg up to my chest. “Good girl,” he said, his lips moving on the shell of my ear. “Now just relax, you know you love this.” “Yes…I…ahh…” I let out a long, low sigh as his lubed finger slid over my anus. “Yes.” He applied pressure to the center and I shut my eyes as he probed through my sphincter. The coolness of the lube spread and the unique sensation of being

entered there, in my darkest hole, sent a ripple of erotic pleasure up my spine. I pushed against him, my back pressing to his hot chest. “Fuck you feel amazing in here,” he said, adding another finger, then wriggling them both. “Mmm…yes…more.” I was greedy for his cock. My clit was still buzzing. “All in good time.” He pushed deeper, until his palm was cupping my lower ass cheeks. “I need you to open up, much more.” “I will. I will.” “I know.” He scissored his fingers, stretching my opening wider. A groan rumbled through my chest

as the slight stitch of discomfort mixed with the undeniable craving for a bigger, thicker invasion. “That’s it, babe, perfect.” I blew out a breath as he pushed in deeper, three fingers now by the feel of it. “You’re ready,” he said, pulling out, “for me to fuck your sexy little ass.” “Coben, please…” I squirmed on the bed and arched my back, jutting my ass out for his cock. I needed filling. I needed him inside me. “Here it is…” The thick head of his cock slipped down the crease of my cheeks and settled over my hole. He reached over me and gripped my lower leg, the one

that was folded up against my chest, and pulled me closer. I felt so vulnerable, so open, so held by him. I loved it, that feeling of being his. He exerted a heavy pressure against my opening. I squeezed my eyes shut and held my breath. At this point I always wondered if it was possible for him to fit inside me there. “Relax,” he murmured against my hair. “Relax and let me in.” I tried my best to let the tension go. It wasn’t easy. “Breathe out,” he said. “Yes.” I did as he’d instructed. He pushed forward, parting me so,

so wide as he slipped the head of his cock into me. “Oh, God…” “Fuck yeah, oh God…yeah…” His dick was thicker than his fingers had been and I jerked, tensing as he eased in some more. “Fucking awesome,” he murmured. “Take me, all of me.” I slipped my hand between my legs and sought out my clit. I rubbed a firm circle over and around it as Coben’s thick shaft lodged deep in my back hole. The filling was so dense, so consuming. My pussy clenched and my stomach went taut. “I’m in you so fucking high,” he

said, his pubic hair scratching against my buttocks. “It’s amazing.” “Yes,” I panted. “You okay,” he asked, stroking his hand down my leg, the one he was holding bent. His forearm nudged mine. “Yeah, that’s it, babe, touch yourself, make yourself come like this, with me in your ass.” “Yes, I will…” He pulled halfway out, then eased back in. “Imagine what it will be like, me in your ass and Edward in your pussy. Can you think of that?” “It will be…so much.” “Yes, but you can take us, I know you can. Then you’ll come so hard we’ll have to hold you together, keep you from

spinning out of control.” “I want that.” “I know.” He paused as he withdrew, then sank deep. “And you’re going to get it…soon.” “Please, please, fuck me, more, harder…” He set up a steady rhythm, almost out, then burying to the hilt. His balls slapped up against me and sweat grew on our skin, making our bodies smooth together. My climax was building, steaming toward me. I kept on frigging my clit, controlling it, waiting until Coben was almost there with me. “Are you going to come soon, babe?” he asked in a strained voice.

His cock was solid in me. His breaths had become ragged. “Yes, yes. Now…with you…” “Urgh…” He pumped harder in and out of me, the root of his dick stretching my hole. I sped up my ministrations on my clit and as I felt his first shudder of release I clenched my fists, held my breath. My whole pelvis toppled into a series of powerful spasms. My asshole hugged Coben’s cock as the waves of pleasure from my clit spread through my pussy to my ass. “Ah yeah, fuck yeah, like that, do me like that,” Coben said breathlessly, his face pressing against the side of my head.

I continued to orgasm, twitching in his arms as I pulsed through crest after crest of bliss. Eventually the pleasure abated and the contractions slowed, then stopped. I was breathing fast as I set a steady pressure over my swollen clit. “That was incredible,” Coben said. “Why the hell don’t we do that more often?” “Because then it wouldn’t be a treat,” I said, giggling. He bit the tip of my shoulder, then kissed the sore spot. “One hell of a treat.” “But also as you say, necessary.” He drifted his hand down my leg and onto my waist. In one smooth

movement he pulled out. I clenched my ass and swiveled in his arms, my whole body limp and exhausted. He pulled me close, his chest rising and falling against mine as he too caught his breath. “Will it really work between the three of us like that?” I asked, needing some reassurance. “Yeah, of course, and I know your sweet body so well. I won’t let it happen if it’s going to cause you pain.” “I don’t want pain.” “I know that.” I hesitated. “And you’ll really be okay, with me and Ed…”

“I’ve thought about it a lot. It’s not fair if you’ve shared me yet I haven’t shared you.” He paused. “And I know this is your fantasy.” “But it’s more than that, isn’t it.” “Why?” “Because Ed is Ed. He’s not a male prostitute we’ve hired for the occasion. I have, well…we have an emotional connection to him, don’t we.” “Yes.” He ran his hand down my back and cupped my ass. “We do, and it’s made me realize something.” “What?” “That if you were thinking of another man, any other man on the face of the planet, the way you’re thinking of Ed I’d be raging with jealousy. I’d be

livid. I’d want to thump the bastard, but…” “But…?” “But Ed, well, he’s different. I have a history with him. I know him. I loved him so much once upon a time.” “And maybe you still do.” “I certainly have feelings for him, deep feelings.” “And that makes it okay for me and him to have sex, have feelings too.” “Yes, it does. I don’t feel crazed with jealousy when I see him look at you clothed or unclothed. When I think about you kissing, fucking, my blood doesn’t boil.” “That’s good.” “It is good. It means we can make

your fantasy a reality.” I nuzzled against him. I knew Coben wouldn’t share me with anyone other than Ed and that suited me just fine. He wasn’t excessively jealous but I’d known him to stare down guys in the past who’d given me appreciative looks and on one occasion he’d threatened an amorous barman with castration when he’d ignored my wedding ring and asked me to meet him at the end of his shift. I sighed and welcomed the sleepy haze that came over me. Everything would be okay. Ed would be home soon. Coben and I were as solid as ever and all the pieces of the puzzle that were our hearts and fantasies were coming together.

Chapter Eleven “Sian, can you help with this?” I glanced up at Drake, who was studying an image handed to him from a walk-in customer. “Sure, what is it?” “It’s a portrait and you’re on fire with these lately.” He handed me a photograph of a woman in her autumn years. She had swept up hair, and her head was tilted. A gentle smile graced her lips. She had mesmerizing blue eyes that stared straight at the camera lens. “Beautiful,” I said, looking up at the young man who stood before the reception desk.

“Thanks, it’s my mother.” He shoved his hands in his pockets and looked at the floor. “She passed not long ago.” “I’m sorry.” “Yeah, me too, mate.” Drake pressed his hand on the customer’s shoulder. “You want her in color or black and white?” I asked softly. “Black and white if that’s okay. And just here.” He patted the top of his right arm. “Yes, that’s fine. I think it will come out really well there.” “You got time now or shall I come back?” He glanced at the door. Drake looked at me. “What do you

think?” “Now is fine. Not much going on.” I gestured to the near-empty shop. “What’s your name?” The customer exhaled as if relieved, then smiled. “Nick.” “Well, Nick, take a seat.” Drake pointed at a sofa. “Sian will just get the image ready to transfer. You want a coffee?” “Please.” Nick sat and linked his fingers together. I sharpened a pencil, then spread a piece of tracing paper over the photograph. “Nice out there again,” Drake said, flicking on the kettle behind the reception desk.

“Yeah,” Nick agreed. “Having a decent summer, aren’t we.” “So far.” I set about tracing the woman’s face, just the outline. “Going anywhere on holiday?” Drake asked from behind me. “Dunno. I went to Dubai last year. That was nice. Really bloody hot, though.” “Dubai, bit of a trek.” “No, not really, and it’s something else, you know. Big hotels, nice beach, palm-shaped islands.” “Didn’t you feel a bit out of it?” Drake collected the milk carton that had been sitting at my side. “What do you mean?”

“Well with all their different rules, culture and that.” “I guess a bit, but there’s loads of Europeans there. Not like if you go to Syria or Jordan. Can’t imagine there’s many white faces in that neck of the woods.” “Mmm, still not sure I’d go,” Drake said. “See that woman on the news last night?” “Which one?” Nick asked. “Some charity worker. She’d been helping refugees and got kidnapped by a bunch of lunatics.” “Oh yeah, I did see that,” Nick said. “She’s free now, though, isn’t she?” “Yeah, but only because the SAS

went in and got her.” Drake spoke with pride. “Best in the world, they are.” I paused tracing the mouth on the photograph. They were talking about Brenda Doll, the woman Ed and his team had likely rescued. An image of his ruggedly handsome face rushed into my mind, replacing the pretty female one I was studying. I hoped to hell he hadn’t added any more scars to the ones he had and that he wasn’t the one who’d been injured. “Brave bastards, those SAS guys,” Drake said. “Wouldn’t like to get on the wrong side of them, though.” “I bet that woman was pleased to see them otherwise it would have been…”

I glanced up and watched Nick draw a horizontal line across his throat. “Yep, they’re a bit fond of that,” Drake said soberly. Resuming my tracing, I suppressed a shudder. If Ed was ever caught by fanatics he’d be a prize prisoner. Goodness only knew what they’d do to him. It didn’t bear thinking about. “Looked like they blew the place up, from what I could see on the news,” Nick said. “Yeah, grab and run. Grab the hostage, then get the hell out of there. Makes sense to take out a few bad guys on the way.” “Yeah.” Nick paused. “So I think I might do Spain this year, or Greece, not

sure yet.” They moved on from discussing the dangerous mission Ed had probably been part of and as they both sipped coffee debated the merits of each country’s financial situation and where they could buy the most beer for their money. I continued to trace the image that was to go on Nick’s arm and as I did so my heartstrings tugged. I wanted Ed back with us. He’d been special to Coben for a long time, but he’d become special to me in a very short space of time. It was as though we were all connected, drawn together, like fate had planned our destiny to walk on parallel paths at least some of the time, if not all of it.

I shifted on the stool I was perched on. My ass was a little tender but it was a nice discomfort and I relished it. The delicate ache reminded me of the fun Coben and I’d had the night before. It also made me long for the full fantasy, the threesome he’d been preparing me for. Again my emotions spiraled, twisting in a different direction like a dirt devil in the desert. If only I could be sure that Ed wanted me the same way he wanted Coben. Coben had assured me he did, but I couldn’t be certain. Ed had barely given any indication he desired me in a sexual way. Even when we’d all been naked in bed together he’d focused

solely on Coben. It was my husband who’d made him hard, stoked his fire and made him come. From what I could gather not much would have changed if I hadn’t been there. Which of course was the way it had been five years ago, before Coben and I had even met. As I began to trace the delicate curls of Nick’s mother’s hair I thought about Coben and Ed together. How they’d been in the past, sneaking about and stealing moments—moments where they could satisfy urges, kiss, hold each other, talk about the future. The excitement of a forbidden love, a secret passion, it must have turned up the heat factor. Love and lust would have boiled over when they’d finally managed to rip

each other’s clothes off. Coben had a high sex drive. He liked sex—a lot. Several times a week was the norm, and twice in one day wasn’t unusual if we were on holiday or it was the weekend. Not that I was complaining. And if he’d been forced to wait, if he was frustrated, impatient and it was Ed not me on the receiving end, I had images of him getting rough and ripping at clothes. None of the niceties of foreplay, just raw, carnal fucking. Burying deep and pumping until the need was sated. A tremble of longing went down my spine. I’d have loved to see them like that together, need and satisfaction the only goal. Brawn and burly muscles

clashing, cocks raging and ready to go, and steely determination to get to the end goal glinting in their eyes. “Sian, Sian…” Drake penetrated my dirty thoughts. “Mmm…?” I asked, looking up. “You nearly done?” He nodded at the picture. I was going over and over the same few strands of hair, way more than was necessary. “Er, yes, I reckon.” I set my pencil down and smiled at Nick. “Come on, then, this way.” **** The portrait tattoo took me the rest of the day. The shading was complex and I was determined to get the same soft

intelligence shining from the eyes. I figured I’d succeeded when Nick was shown it and his voice trembled as he thanked me. I noticed a small well of moisture on his lower lids, which he quickly wiped away. By the time I’d tidied my station and filed Nick’s details I was ready for home. I was hungry so nibbled on a muesli bar as I caught The Tube back to Angel station. A light rain started to fall as I navigated the five-minute walk to Bromley Street and I put my head down and hurried. The air was hot and muggy. Coben had said he’d be working late tonight. Something had come up with Harold Stern’s new job and he was keen

to keep everything running as smoothly as possible. But that was okay. I’d maybe have a soak in the bath before starting dinner. As I rounded the corner I noticed a sleek black motorbike parked outside our home. My heart quickened and I tightened my hold on the strap of my bag that was hoisted over my shoulder. Could it be? Already? Yes. Standing on our step, knocking at the door was a tall, broadshouldered man dressed in leather. He still wore his helmet. Ed. He was back. I broke into a jog, heat rising

within me and joy spreading through my limbs, adding to my pace. “Ed,” I called. I was worried if there were no answer he’d leave. “Ed.” He turned, saw me, then raised his hand. I kept on hurrying. Coben would be so happy, more than happy, elated, as was I. Ed walked down the three steps and stood, feet hip-width apart, as I rushed up to him. I wrapped my arms around his waist and held him tight with my face pressed against the cool, damp leather at his shoulder. His arms stayed loose as if he were surprised by my grip on him. I squeezed closer.

“Hey, hey,” he said, wrapping me up in his thick arms, the jacket creaking slightly as he moved. “You okay?” “Yes, fine.” I inhaled his scent, my chest pushing against his as I breathed deep. “Good.” His voice was gruff. I pulled back a little and looked up at him. I couldn’t see his face because his visor was down and all that greeted me was my own reflection. “Are you coming in?” Of course he is, why would he be here otherwise? “If I’m invited.” He pushed up the visor. There was some bruising under his left eye and both irises appeared a little bloodshot. But other than that his

face was fine, more than fine. It was perfect because he was here. “You know you are.” I smiled and released him. “Come on, it’s starting to rain.” I rummaged in my bag for my keys, found them, and quickly went up the steps. I opened the front door and stepped in. Ed followed close behind. “How’s Coben?” Ed asked, watching as I toed off my shoes. The tiles were cool on the soles of my feet, a sensation I relished at the end of a long day. “He’s fine. Working late.” “Is he really?” “What?” I set down my bag and turned to him. “Working late?”

“No, is he really fine? How has he, you know…been while I was away?” Ahh, I could see what he was getting at. Ed’s time with Helen had been painful. They’d split because she couldn’t handle being the one left behind and he’d worried about the emotional damage he’d caused her by not being there. “He’s been anxious, obviously. Wondering if you’re okay. He knows more about it than me. What you’ve been up against.” Ed nodded. “Yeah.” “But we’ve had each other to hold at night.” I smiled. “He’s been okay, really. He cares about you, a lot, but he

also loves me and I get him. I understand what he needs, when he needs to talk, when he doesn’t.” I paused. “Being a couple going through worry and missing someone must be a lot easier than being alone.” “Yeah, I discovered that absence doesn’t make the heart grow fonder. It just crystallizes it into quietly outraged loneliness and combined with fear that can become a living hell for a person.” “Helen?” He nodded and removed his helmet. As he did so, I could see the bruise beneath his left eye wasn’t his only bruise. In fact he had several on that side of his face and more down his neck. “What happened?” As I’d spoken I

knew he wouldn’t answer. I stepped up to him and moved his collar. The bruising went down his neck, angry and red. It looked like someone had tried to strangle him. “Ed…?” “It’s okay.” He shrugged. “Really?” “Yeah, don’t fuss.” He moved away and took his jacket off, hung it on the back of the chair he’d placed his helmet on. “Worse injuries were taken by some of my team.” “I’m not fussing, I’m just…” “What?” He studied me. “Concerned.” “Don’t be.” He gave me one of his sexy but cocky half-smiles that went straight to my chest and made my nipples

tingle. “Not something I can turn on and off,” I said, stepping up close to him. Again I looked at the marks on his neck. They were shocking the way they seemed to circle his throat. I stroked the tip of my index finger over one. Coben would be horrified. “Sian,” he said quietly. “Mmm…?” I stroked over his collarbone, feeling the shape of it beneath his t-shirt. He winced. “What?” I asked, surprised. I knew damn well Ed had a high tolerance for pain. “Nothing.” He shook his head. His eyes seemed to penetrate right through

me. “That’s not nothing.” “Leave it.” I reached for the base of his t-shirt and gripped it. “If you’re in our lives, Ed, then you need to be honest about the things you can be honest about. The things that are not covered by the Official Secrets Act. And if being bruised and battered is how you are today, then you need to be up front about that, okay?” I’d spoken firmly, probably more than I’d intended but it was how I felt. He might be big and dark and in a brooding mood but I had a right to know if he was hurt. He swallowed, shifting the bruising on his neck. “Yeah, okay.”

A small bubble of triumph burst within me. “Good.” I peeled his top up, revealing his flat abdomen with its trail of dark hair, his sternum and pecs. He raised his arms and allowed me to remove the garment completely. I let it fall to the floor. Shock washed through me. His gorgeous body was peppered with bruises, some so dark they were almost black and others red in the middle and faded on the edges. “You should see the other guy,” he said, rubbing his hand over his right collarbone that did have a particularly nasty swelling on it. “Bloody hell,” I said. “It’s fine, really.” He huffed. “Had more impressive knocks. This will be

gone in a few days.” “What happened?” I shook my head. “No, I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have asked. You could tell me but then you’d have to kill me, right.” I laughed but it held no humor. He reached out and tucked a strand of my hair behind my ear. “I ended up in a situation where it was just me and one insurgent. I was out of bullets so it was fist fight or die. I picked the fist fight but he was no pushover. He got a few hits in.” “And a stranglehold by the looks of it.” He shrugged, then winced again and put his hand on his collarbone. “He had a go but didn’t get very far. We’ve

all got to go at some point but I wasn’t about to let some raghead do me in with his bare hands in a shit hole of a house.” “So what did you do?” “I removed the threat.” “Ahh, okay.” I could guess what that meant. He’d killed him. I looked at his hands. Hands that I knew could be gentle and loving but were also capable of killing… “And the mission was successful, so here I am,” he said. “Was it that woman, the hostage?” “Now you know I can’t talk about that.” He bit his bottom lip. “Yes, I’m sorry.” “Got any coffee around here?” he asked, glancing at the kitchen.

“Yes, of course, come through, and you really should have a cold compress on that swelling on your clavicle. It’s nasty.” “Nah, the medics cleared me. It’s fine.” “Well it’s maybe not broken but it still needs attention.” I led the way into the kitchen and pulled out a chair for him to sit on. “Have you eaten?” “No.” “Will you stay and eat with us?” “I’d like that.” He spun the chair so it was facing into the room, then sat and placed his hands on his leather-clad thighs. I fussed around putting on the coffee, then searched for a bag of peas in

the freezer. We only had sweetcorn but I figured that would work just as well. As I moved I could feel his quiet attention on me. It was what I’d craved, his attention, his desire, and something in the heated way he was looking at me made me wonder if I finally had that. After wrapping the sweetcorn in a tea towel I stood in front of him. His eyeline was level with my breasts. “Here, this is cold.” Very gently I rested the cool package against the swelling. He didn’t wince or shift but instead looked up at me. I caught my breath. I’d been right. His eyes were on fire with lust. The dark depths burned with longing. It was a

longing I was sure reflected back at him because I wanted Ed so much.

Chapter Twelve But right now Ed was injured. He was bruised and battered and not up for any sexy action. “Fucking hell you’re a sight for sore eyes,” he said, slipping his hand into my hair, his palm scraping over my ear. “Ed…” I said breathily. “So fucking beautiful. Coben’s a lucky guy to have you.” “You can have me too.” He mashed his lips together. A small tendon jumped in his cheek, beneath the bruising there. My heart galloped and my stomach

lurched in anticipation of what I was about to ask. “If you want me, that is.” He pulled my face to his and hovered his lips over mine. “Did you ever doubt that?” “Yes.” “You shouldn’t have.” He kissed me in a hot, hard way that sent white-hot need racing through my veins. The sweetcorn fell to the floor as he wound his arm around my waist and tugged me closer. His hold on me was vice-tight, his strength evident in every muscle beneath my palms. I straddled his legs and he urged me to sit on his thighs. Our heads now level, the kiss deepened. Our tongues tangled, our breaths quickened. I wanted

him. I wanted Ed in my pussy, fucking me. The way he’d fucked Coben with determination and desperation, I wanted that too. And damn the guy deserved it after what he’d been through. He fisted the hair on my crown and tugged. I was forced to tip my head back and as I stared at the ceiling he kissed and nibbled his way down my neck. “Oh God,” I moaned. Each section of skin he’d touched felt so alive. I rocked forward and felt the bulge of his erection forcing itself on his leathers. “Ah yeah,” he moaned. “I’m going to make you come so hard.” He slipped his hand up the inside of my top and cupped my right breast.

“More.” I pushed my crotch over his, feeling the thickness of his shaft even through our clothing. “Much more.” He squeezed my breast over my bra, gathering up all the flesh and the cup. I squirmed in exquisite discomfort. He released the tight hold on my hair and I looked at him again. His lips were damp and slightly parted and there was a flush on his cheeks. “You’re the perfect woman,” he murmured. “Hot and sexy, yet gentle and kind. I want you. I want all of you.” “And I want you.” I cupped his cheeks and held his face. A sudden bolt of realization hit me. We couldn’t do this. Not without

Coben. It wasn’t fair. I belonged to him. I was his wife. And although he was looking forward to the threesome fantasy and had been fucked by Ed it was something we all needed to do together. “Coben,” I managed. “Yeah, he’ll be home soon right.” He leaned in for another kiss. “Yes, but…” “Oh fuck, there’s a but?” He stilled. “Yes, you know there is.” I wriggled. He slipped his hand from beneath my top. He smoothed out the material by gently running his palm over my chest. “You want Coben here when we fuck, is that right?”

I nodded. “Yes. It has to be that way. He’s not normally into sharing me. He can be jealous on occasion.” Ed chuckled. “Really?” “Why is that funny?” “I didn’t know that about him. No one else came near either of us, so it wasn’t ever a situation.” He paused. “I like it, though, that he’s territorial. It’s sexy.” “You reckon?” “Yeah.” He tilted his head within my hands. I let my palms drift down to his neck and rested them gently over the bruising. “I want you both,” Ed said. “And to be honest I can’t fucking believe my

luck that you both want me, so I’m happy to play by your rules.” “Not rules just necessary, for him, for his emotional well-being.” “You’re a good wife, you know that.” I grinned and shifted on his lap, felt the hardness of his cock again. “Not that good.” “No one is without a little bit of bad.” He swept his lips over mine. “Now where is that coffee?” I became aware of the mellow scent of the roasted beans and stood. “Here.” I handed him the sweetcorn. “Keep this on.” “Yes, ma’am.” “You want something to eat with

this coffee? A sandwich or something to keep you going?” “That’d be cool.” He shoved his hands down the front of his leathers and appeared to adjust himself. “If that’s what’s on offer.” He winked. “For now.” A delicious feeling of anticipation was zinging through me. I was turned on but happy to let the sensation linger, keep me buzzing until the time was right. Until Coben was here to join in the fun. I set down a mug of coffee on the table, then a glass of water and a couple of paracetamol. “Take these.” “What for?” “Make that more comfortable.” I pointed at his shoulder, then his face and

finally the string of bruises on his ribs. “All of it.” He kind of huffed as though the idea was silly but took the medication anyway. “Ham sandwich?” “Perfect.” I set about spreading butter on two slices of bread. The sky had become dark and the kitchen gloomy. I was just reaching for the light switch when an almighty rumble of thunder rolled overhead. “We’re in for a good one,” Ed said, sipping his coffee. “Yes, I could feel it in the air.” I flicked on the overhead light and returned to adding ham to the bread.

“What time will Cobe be in?” “Late. Might as well get a comfy seat to eat this.” I added the round of sandwiches to a plate and nodded at the living room. “Will be better for you than that hard chair.” “Whatever,” he said, smiling and standing. He followed me to the living room and I set the food next to the soft armchair. I fussed, plumping cushions for his poor, battered body to rest on and added one high up for his head. “When did you last sleep?” I asked. “I dunno.” He thought about it. “Yesterday, on a plane.” “Well, sit and put your feet up.”

“I could get used to this.” The room lit up as lightning streaked over North London. I jumped a little and he rested his hand on my shoulder. “You okay?” “Yes fine.” I glanced outside as another loud grumble of thunder made the windows rattle. I’d never been a fan of storms. “I’ll just be glad when Coben gets home.” He grinned. “Me too.” He sat, his naked upper torso looking dark and powerful against the rose-pink chair. “Thanks for this.” He picked up his snack and bit into it. “No problem. Here’s the remote for the TV. I’ll go and get something more substantial cooking.”

“Sure, do what you need to do.” As I wandered back into the kitchen I heard the title music of the BBC news. I could hardly believe it. Ed was back. Not just back he was here, sitting in our home, eating and resting and waiting for Coben. And he did want me. I hugged my arms around myself and stared at the fat drips of the rainstorm landing wetly on the window. Ed desired me. He thought I was sexy and gentle and perfect. He wanted my body next to his, his cock sinking deep. The three of us really could become one. I nipped back into the hall and grabbed my purse. Ed had his head

resting back on the cushion. He didn’t appear to notice me. Quickly I pulled out my iPhone and sent a text to Coben. Ed’s here! X Within seconds I had a reply. What! Keep him there. I tapped at the screen. He’s not going anywhere. He’s settled in the living room with food and painkillers. Don’t be late X Again the response was quick. I’m on my way now. I smiled. Coben would be feeling the same way I had when I’d seen the motorbike and Ed at the door. It was a heady mixture of relief and excitement, a complex tangle of love and lust. I poured a glass of wine, then

flicked the oven on. I had chicken breasts in the fridge. Ed looked like a hearty meal, and not something out of rehydrated sachet or a can, would do him the world of good. As the storm grumbled and the rain became an angry torrent against the window I peeled vegetables and made up a creamy mushroom sauce. The news was still on. I could hear the low drone of voices coming from the living room. After I’d put the chicken in the oven I picked up the coffee pot and went to see if Ed wanted a refill. I stopped in the doorway of the living room. He was fast asleep. His head was tilted back, his mouth slightly parted and his chest rising and falling

softly. The bag of sweetcorn was balanced on his swollen injury. A smile tugged my lips. It was good he felt so relaxed in our home. That he could just fall asleep even with the TV on and a storm raging. I reached for a throw and lay it over his legs and halfway up his chest. He didn’t stir. Goodness only knew the extent of his exhaustion or when he’d last slept somewhere comfortable. I turned the volume of the news down a little but not off completely in case that disturbed him, then went back to the kitchen. I tidied up and made a whipped chocolate mousse for dessert, one of my specialities. The storm picked up, the loud

claps of thunder relentless. Twice I glanced at Ed to see if he’d woken. He hadn’t. Eventually I heard Coben’s key in the front door. I dashed to greet him. He was standing dripping on the mat. The short run from car to house had managed to drench his hair and his suit jacket. “Bloody awful out there,” he said. “Shh…” I pressed my index finger to my lips and shut the door with a quiet click. “He’s sleeping. But I don’t think he’ll wake easily. He’s not stirred even with this racket going on.” “Likely he’s exhausted. Batteries on empty.” Coben shrugged out of his jacket and hung it on the coat stand. He

tugged off his shoes. “Is he in there?” “Yes.” I followed Coben as he wandered into the living room. He stopped and stared at the sleeping Ed. “Just a few bruises and scrapes,” I whispered, linking my hand with Coben’s. He squeezed my fingers and exhaled long and slow. “Thank God for that.” “Yes.” Coben indicated the empty plate. “He’s eaten?” “A sandwich for now. I’ve got chicken cooking.” “Good.” He leaned down and pressed a kiss to the top of Ed’s head.

Ed still didn’t stir. He just continued to breathe steadily, his features relaxed and the flickering light of the TV screen dancing over him. Coben looked at me and smiled. “It’s a good day.” “It is.” He pulled me close and wrapped me against his damp body. “You’re wet,” I said quietly and smiled up at him. “I’ll go and get changed. Maybe he will have woken by then.” **** Five hours later Ed was still snoring gently. He’d barely moved apart from a few slight stretches of his spine as though his body ached even in his

sleep. Coben and I were cuddled up on the sofa. Our bellies were full and I’d eventually put Ed’s meal in the fridge for him to have when he awoke, or even tomorrow. The news had been on again and now we were both lazily watching some quiz show that had mildly humorous guests. The storm had long since passed and the open window let in the scent of wet, warm tarmac. Coben yawned. “Shall we go to bed?” I asked softly. “What and leave him?” He nodded at Ed. “He’s a big boy. I’m sure he’ll be

fine.” Coben frowned. “Come on. I can’t sleep here or I’ll pay for that tomorrow. He knows where we’ll be if he wakes up.” Coben still didn’t look convinced. “He’ll be fine.” I paused. “And let’s face it, he could sleep like that for another eight hours.” “I suppose.” “Go get a warmer blanket for him and I’ll shut the window and lock up.” “Okay.” Coben stood. I busied myself in the kitchen and checked the back door was secure. I then did the same with the front door. As I went back into the living room to shut the window Coben was

gently spreading out a cream fluffy blanket over Ed. For a moment it looked almost comical, these two beefy soldiers with a blanket and a soft pink chair—one sleeping, the other caring. But then the reality of it hit me. It was because of the crap they’d been through that made the gentle times all the more gentle. Coben had a better idea than most about what Ed did, what he’d have been through these last few days. It made him the ideal partner for Ed, especially if he didn’t completely crack up when Ed was away on a mission. Which he hadn’t. He’d been worried but he’d stayed strong. Could it actually work as a long-

term arrangement for us? The thought hit me like a punch to the stomach. Long term? Long-term threesome? Me, Coben and Ed. Yes, I’d toyed with the idea but only like watching a butterfly flutter past. It was transient, not really mine. But now, seeing them like this and having been in Ed’s arms earlier, kissing him, surrounded by his need and desire, it was as if the triangle of us, the three of us, had linked up. I could imagine it. I could see how it might just work. Coben hit mute on the TV but left it on, kind of like a night light for Ed. He turned to me and a flash of worry dashed over his face.

“What?” I whispered. “He won’t just get up and leave, will he?” “No.” I shook my head. “You sure?” “Yes. He wanted to know when you’d be home, how you’d been. He wanted to see you.” Coben seemed suitably convinced and with one last look at Ed we went up the stairs hand in hand. I brushed my teeth and jumped through the shower while Coben checked a few e-mails on his laptop. Earlier I’d hoped the three of us would be tumbling into bed together, but with Ed so exhausted that wasn’t on the cards. I didn’t really mind, though. He was

here. He was safe. That was what was important. As I dried and went through my skin care routine, Coben stepped naked into the bathroom. He never failed to take my breath away. He flicked on the shower and stepped in, holding his face up to the warm stream of water. His hair slicked back and the water caressed his body, dipping into the slope of his sternum and down his abs. His cock was at half-mast and his pubes dark and wet against his groin. He caught me looking. “What?” he asked, reaching for the showergel. “Nothing.” I grinned.

He looked at me quizzically as he rubbed the suds over his body. “You’re just gorgeous that’s all.” “Takes one to know one.” He laughed—a lovely, light sound that told me how relieved he was that Ed was back safe. That we’re all under one roof. “I can see why Ed is so hot for you,” I said, removing my towel and hanging it up. “And you.” Coben rinsed away the suds before stepping from the shower. He grabbed a fresh towel and began to briskly rub himself, his gaze not moving from me. “He told me,” I said, applying a slick of buttery body lotion to my arms.

“What?” “That he wanted me.” “He did?” “Yes and…” “What?” I looked directly at him. He stopped drying and a frown creased his brow. “What is it, babe?” “He kissed me. We kissed…I…it happened.” He nodded slowly. “You kissed and…?” “There is no and.” I stepped up to him. “We established that we both found the other desirable, very desirable, kissed and then stopped. We couldn’t, wouldn’t, do anything else without you there, Coben. That was important to both

of us. You are important to both of us. So important.” He smiled, just a little. “And you’re both important to me.” He paused. “Thank you, for waiting for me. I don’t know why it’s so vital when I’ve already made the decision to let him… make love to you, but it is.” “We can’t always explain our emotions.” “I want it. I want us both to be inside you, so badly I’m walking around like a horny teenager thinking about it.” He reached down and held his cock. “But that first time, him and you, I have to be there. It’s that imagination thing. It’s harder to face than reality sometimes and I don’t want to get screwed up

thinking about it afterward.” “You will be there. I promise.” I stepped away. “Now come to bed.” “I’ll just brush my teeth.” He smiled and stepped up to the sink. Coben and I didn’t make love. Instead we wound our limbs together and I settled my head in my favorite spot on his shoulder. The air felt lovely and fresh after the storm and a light breeze made the curtain shift slightly over the open window. I soon found myself lulled into a floaty dream where I was dancing through rainbows. I had a paintbrush in my hand and was drawing clouds and stars, adding more rainbows over the first. I was light and free. Coben was

there, and Ed. The man I’d tattooed that day, Nick, was with his mother and so was the hostage lady, Brenda Doll, though she had no face just a quiet voice. “Hey,” a quiet voice said by my ear. “How are you doing, sexy?” A big, hot body settled next to mine. I was already snuggled against Coben and as I lifted from my dream there was one word on my lips. “Ed.”

Chapter Thirteen “Ed,” I repeated, shifting in Coben’s arms. He kissed my cheek, his chin scratching my flesh. “You left me sleeping.” “You looked like you needed it.” “Yeah, I always need sleep after a mission.” He stroked his hand over my hair. “Sorry to be a party pooper.” “We were happy to wait for you.” I smiled up at his shadowy outline. “Edward.” Coben half sat. “Fuck, I can’t tell you how relieved I was when Sian text to say you were home.” Ed also sat and he reached over

me to draw Coben into a tight embrace. Light from a street lamp flitted over them, highlighting their defined muscles. “Home?” Ed repeated. “Yeah back in the UK.” He paused. “Here, in our home.” Ed pressed a soft kiss to Coben’s lips. It quickly intensified, became urgent and breathy. “Damn, I can’t tell you how good it is to be here,” Ed said, breaking the kiss and looking down at me. His gaze dipped to my breasts, exposed now the sheet had slipped. “With you both.” Coben slid his hand over my right breast, cupped the flesh, then tweaked my nipple.

I squirmed a little, enjoying the slight discomfort. Ed reached out and hovered his hand over my left breast. I held my breath as a wave of longing went through me—longing for Ed to put his hands on me too. I wanted them both. I craved the sensation of two men touching me at the same time. Desiring me, wanting me, adoring me. But not just any two men. These two men. Ed looked at Coben. Coben’s attention went from his own hand, to Ed’s poised over my breast, then up to Ed’s face. He gave a slight nod. Ed looked at me and rested his

hand over my flesh. I breathed out, long and slow. This was my time. My time with Ed and my time with Coben. Ed’s warm hand squeezed my breast the same way Coben’s was. My hard nipples were trapped. I felt so consumed already by the two big men looming over me. How would I feel when…? “Coben.” I gasped. “You okay?” he asked. “Yes.” I arched my spine. “Fuck I want you both…” “We know,” Ed said. He leaned down and caught my mouth with his. I kissed him back, our tongues sliding against each other as my legs and

body continued to be cushioned between them. Ed tasted rich and masculine, his facial hair so different to the feel of Coben’s softly shaven skin. My breasts were still being caressed, my nipples tweaked. I groaned and felt moisture in my pussy. Surely it would happen now, this grand fantasy. Ed sat again. He was breathing fast and sporting an impressive erection. Oh God, can I really fit that and Coben’s cock inside of me? Yes. Ed licked his lips and turned to Coben. “She’s so fucking amazing.” “I know.” Coben swept his hand down my belly, dipped into my navel,

then fluffed his fingers through my strip of pubic hair. Ed watched him and sank his teeth into his bottom lip. “Every little bit of her is amazing,” Coben said. “Open up, babe.” I did as he’d asked and parted my thighs. I was warm and wet, my folds slick. Coben slid his fingers over my clit. Something he’d done a thousand times but with Ed watching it felt new again. “Yeah, she’s ready for us,” Coben said, slipping into my entrance. “Fuck yeah, Sian, you’re so damn sexy and ready for it.” “I know.” I pushed down onto his

invasion, greedy for more. “I want it. I want you both.” Coben pulled his fingers from me. I groaned in frustration. “Taste her,” he said to Ed, holding his fingers between their faces. “With pleasure.” Ed set his attention on Coben’s fingers. He drew them into him mouth and sucked, his cheeks hollowing as he made an appreciative sound. My heart pounded against my rib cage and my head spun with longing. Was I really witnessing this? “Good, eh?” Coben said, pulling his fingers from Ed’s mouth. “Yeah.” Ed tipped forward and kissed Coben, sharing my flavor.

I reached down and rubbed my clit. I was shaking with need. These guys were so damn sexy, everything I wanted and more. Coben noticed me touching myself. “Ah, ah, I don’t think so.” He caught my wrist. “Not when you have two willing men here to service your every need.” “So get servicing,” I replied, pouting and shutting my eyes in frustration. Ed chuckled. “She always so demanding?” “I’m afraid so.” Coben smiled indulgently at me, then dipped his head and flicked his tongue over my clit. I thrust my hips up for more and pressed my head into the pillow.

“Please.” Coben suckled my clit into his mouth. He was touching me too, rubbing my entrance, pushing into my pussy. I opened my eyes. Ed was still massaging my breast. His other hand was between my legs. They were both touching me, easing into me. Coben was working my clit. “Oh God,” I murmured. Already a steady pulse was throbbing in my clit. The need to climb to release was building. The filling sensation increased. “Fuck, she’s tight,” Ed murmured. “It’ll be fine.” Coben kissed upward, over my belly and to my right nipple. He caught it between his teeth

and tugged. “Coben.” I gasped, running my fingers into his hair. “Mmm.” “Oh God…” Ed had worked three fingers into me and it felt amazing to have him seated inside me. I stared at Coben. “You handling it?” “Babe, you’re spectacular.” I smiled, then exhaled as an overwhelming urge to thrust onto Ed’s hand came over me. I wanted to come… soon. “Hey,” Ed said, pulling out. “You’ve gotta wait for us, you know.” “So get started.” Ed looked at Coben. His jaw

tensed as he swept his damp fingers over Coben’s hair. “Permission,” he said. “To fuck your wife.” Coben smiled. “Granted.” Ed leaned in and kissed him, then ducked and kissed me. I clung to his shoulders, became lost in the dark taste of him, the wideness of his body, the heat of his skin. Suddenly I was on top of him. He’d rolled us over so I was straddling him the way I had been in the kitchen when he’d been sitting on the chair. “Ed!” “Like this.” He reached down and gripped his cock. “Sit on me, ride me, baby.”

“Yes.” Coben was at my side, his arm around my waist. “Allow me,” he said, nudging Ed’s hand away. “With pleasure.” Ed reached for my breasts and cupped them in both of his palms. Coben held Ed’s cock upright. “Take him, sit down and take him all the way.” My entrance was wet and pliant and as Coben directed Ed’s cock in the first inch I knew it was going to feel amazing. He was wide and thick but no more than Coben was. “That’s it,” Coben whispered in my ear. “Take him, like that. When he’s in I’m going to fuck your ass, like I did

last night. You’ll love that, both of us in you, fucking you, taking you to one hell of an orgasm. We’ll hold you tight.” He applied pressure to my waist, urging me down. “You’ll never forget it, neither will we.” I wanted to say that I hoped it would be the first of many times, but I didn’t. My mouth was stuck in an O as Ed’s thick shaft went higher and higher into me. The dense filling was sublime and I held my breath as I took him to full depth. Coben rubbed my clit in a gentle up-and-down movement. “Good?” “Yes.” I gasped, gripping Ed’s wrists. He let out a long, low groan and

twitched his hips, sinking just a tiny bit more. “Fuck it’s been a while and I’ve been thinking about this for days, being in you, Sian.” “Keep your control, soldier,” Coben said. He moved away from me and I shifted. My clit came into contact with Ed’s body. “Come here.” He tugged me down. “I need to kiss you.” I didn’t object and happily allowed his tongue to slip into my mouth as our lips did a gentle dance. He cupped my ass cheeks, his hands so big I felt completely covered by them. As he pulled my buttocks apart a cool swipe of lube slid over my anus.

“Ahh…” I tensed as Coben repeated the action. “Got to get you lubed up,” Coben said. “Relax, babe.” “Mmm…” It wasn’t going to be easy. I was tense, primed for a fast and furious ride to satisfaction. “Shh…” Ed rubbed his nose against the tip of mine. “You know we’ll look after you, right.” “Yes.” “There’s no two men in the world who could look after you better.” “Yes, I know.” “In every sense of the word.” Coben breached my sphincter, slipping a finger into my dark passage. I sucked in a breath.

“We’ve got you,” Ed said. “We’ll make it so good. Shh…” I jerked and rested heavier on Ed. “Good girl.” Coben kissed my shoulder. “Let me in.” He added another finger and went deeper. It was so tight, compared to last night when my pussy wasn’t stuffed with Ed’s cock. Would this work? “Move,” Coben instructed. “Work yourself up for it.” I began to fuck Ed, riding him, grinding my clit on his body. He groaned and slid one hand up my back and wrapped his fingers around my nape. It was a possessive, controlling hold that, combined with Coben’s fingers in my ass, was nearly

my undoing. “Oh God, I want to come,” I moaned. “In a minute, when we’re both inside you.” Ed’s voice held a note of tension now. I had the feeling it wouldn’t take much to tip him over the edge and join me in a race to climax. Coben added another finger. The nip of pain radiated through me and heightened my senses further. “Fuck me,” I demanded, looking over my shoulder. “Now, I need you.” “Yes.” He suddenly pulled out. My ass felt empty and I stilled, not wanting to continue without Coben attached to us both. “Get in her.” Ed demanded.

“I am.” The cool tip of his dick touched my entrance. I breathed out and bore down, waiting for him to enter me. “That’s it,” he said, gripping my hips. “This is what you’ve been waiting for, babe.” “Give it to me.” Ed pulled me in for a wild, tongue-thrusting kiss. Coben eased forward on a thick, steady ride into my back passage. I squirmed and gasped, struggled to take him. I wanted to say stop. I wanted to shout for more. It was so much. It was everything I wanted. “Ah fuck…” Ed gasped, breaking the kiss and looking over my shoulder. “I

can goddamn feel your cock, Cobe, through her. Fucking awesome.” “Yeah…” Coben said. He reached full depth, the root of his cock stretching my sphincter almost impossibly wide. “Awesome.” He groaned, long and guttural, and his chest connected with my back. The groan vibrated through me, juddering into my lungs. My breath hitched onto Ed and for a moment we all froze. Buried deep, both men sandwiched me. I’d never felt so stuffed full of cock, so invaded, so desired and needed. An orgasm was hovering. It was a mere whisper away. I sucked in breath, carefully. Every nerve in my body was on high alert. I imagined for a moment that I was made

of china. That my climax was crystal. It was shimmering within reach… “I fucking love you so much,” Coben whispered, his lips moving against my shoulder. “So fucking much.” “I love you too,” I said, fisting the pillowcase by Ed’s ear. “And I love you,” Ed added, stroking across my head and onto Coben’s. For a split second I wondered if Coben had been speaking to me, or Ed or both of us. Had Ed been speaking to Coben or me or both of us? But thoughts soon scuttled from my mind. Coben pulled out, then eased back in. “Ah, yeah,” I murmured against Ed’s lips. “Fuck yeah…”

“Tell me about it…” He groaned. “Jesus,” Coben murmured. “This is unreal.” “Quit talking and fuck me,” I demanded, rising off Ed, then sinking back down. Coben buried deeper in my ass at the same time. We all moaned. My nipples scraped against Ed’s hairy chest. It felt like they’d penetrated me to the core. They couldn’t get any deeper. My asshole stung. My pussy was stretched taut. Every sensation added to a kaleidoscope of deliciousness. I upped the speed, controlling both of them as I rose and fell on Ed. Coben matched me, sinking to the hilt each time I took Ed to the root.

The air around us heated, and my skin tingled. My clit was being rubbed against Ed and the pressure was building in my cunt. I knew release would soon devour me. “Ah, yeah, faster,” Ed said on a long moan. “Faster, both of you. Oh God, more…” “I’m going…to come,” I panted. The last steps of my build to climax were within reach. Soon the point of no return would be upon me. I dragged in a deep breath and held it. “Yes, yes,” Coben said, the front of his thighs hitting the back of mine as he spooned me and tunneled deep. “Yes, ah fuck…come with me.” “Fuck…” Ed groaned, his fingers

digging into my shoulder. “I can’t…” I allowed my climax to take control. The last few seconds to the overspill of pleasure were blissful and spun me into a new dimension where lights flashed and thoughts collided. As I unraveled, my pussy spasmed around Ed’s cock. My ass contracted and squeezed Coben’s dick. I continued to rub my clit on Ed, adoring the control I had over that moment despite being the one who was penetrated. I huffed out my held-in breath. Ed captured my mouth in a slick kiss and moaned through his release. Coben gripped my shoulders and unleashed his climax in three sharp thrusts. The sound of him coming sent

more tremors of bliss though my pussy and ass. I could feel his shaft pulsing, ecstasy pouring from him and into me. “Oh God, ah yeah,” he moaned as his frantic thrusts eased. “Oh fuck, I’m in Heaven, Sian…Edward…” “Cobe.” Ed reached for his shoulder and gripped it. “We’ve got you.” Coben let out a long, low moan and flopped onto me. I was trapped between him and Ed. The breath squashed from me. I groaned. Coben slid from my ass. Ed shifted, slipped from my pussy and eased me to the bed, cradled against his side.

Coben dropped over Ed, their chests pressing together. “You all right, mate?” Ed asked, pushing Coben’s hair from his face with his free hand. Coben looked dazed, his eyes glassy. “Yeah.” He smiled. “Never better.” He set a kiss on Ed’s mouth, then reached for me and swept his lips over mine. “Just a bit high from that fucking awesome fuck.” It had been awesome, and intense and wild, and frantic and deep. I’d never forget it. I clenched my ass and pussy, felt the dampness of cum there. “Shit, Ed, we forgot the condom,” I said, a wave of panic rippling through me and undoing my relaxed state.

“It’s okay.” “It’s not, I—” I’d only ever not used a condom with Coben. I was on the pill but still… “Medical before I went on my last mission and yeah, the bastard doc swabbed for everything. It’s the way they work. I’m clean as a whistle, baby, maybe not in mind but definitely in body.” He smoothed my hair in that way he’d started doing. It was both calming and comforting and made me feel like his absolute priority when he did it with his attention on me. “You think I would have let anything risk you?” Coben asked. “Well, I don’t know, in the heat of the moment.”

“I know how these medicals go,” Coben said. “It’s all good. We’re a safe threesome.” “Threesome,” I repeated. “Threesome,” Ed echoed. “I kind of like that…but…” Coben trailed off. “But what?” I asked. “I feel like I’m being selfish. I love Sian, my wife, with everything that I am, but you, Edward, there is love between us too. I’m the one having my cake and eating it.” “Maybe,” I said. “But I think we can safely say Ed and I are having fun too. Definitely some cake eating going on.” I giggled. “I can’t believe my fucking luck.”

Ed pulled me closer and stroked Coben’s shoulder. “The only man I’ve ever had feelings for and a seriously amazing woman who,” he paused, “understands this…us and my work, what it means. I honestly never thought I’d have this moment.” He looked between us. “And I’m not going to deny I’m hoping for more. More of this, more of being with you two, more of being accepted.” “And being able to work without worrying about home, what emotional trauma you’ve left behind,” I added. “Exactly.” He smiled at me. “See you get it.” I stroked his cheek, my fingertips catching on his stubble. “Yes, I do.

That’s the difference now. We have each other, Coben and I, when you’re not here.” “I don’t want you to go,” Coben said. “No, no, I don’t mean that I don’t want you to go to work. I would never ask you to give that up. It’s who you are. But when you’re in the UK, on leave. Be with us.” “Yes. That’s what we want.” I looked at Coben. His expression reflected the same need I knew was in mine. “We care, Ed. We care a lot.” Ed squeezed us both closer. “I’m a lucky guy.” “We’re all lucky,” I said. “Lucky to have found each other.” “Lost and found,” Coben

corrected. “You sure I’m not just muscling in between you?” Ed asked, flexing his biceps and shifting us both closer to him. “Well if you are…” Coben started. “We’re not complaining.” I reached up, kissed Ed, then kissed Coben. Ed joined in the kiss and all of our tongues twisted and slicked over one another. I’d never have believed I could share my husband, but with Ed as our third, I was getting double the pleasure, double the men and double the love in my life. I was going to be brave, like they were in unexplored territory and take the risk, because at the end of the

day, who dares ultimately wins.

Epilogue Five Years Later Major Edward Mooreland revved the accelerator on his Kawasaki Ninja. His pride and joy that he hadn’t ridden for five weeks was in need of a run and letting off a bit of steam…as was he. He held on tight and leaned lower as he navigated the motorway traffic, happy to be leaving Hereford behind, where he’d spent three days debriefing his latest mission and being checked over by medics. It hadn’t been fun, the debriefing and the prodding and poking, but neither

had the mission. On the most part it had been successful, though they had conceded a few casualties—nothing fatal, which was always a bonus. But right now, he was happy to be getting away with nothing more than a near miss with an AK47 and losing a stone in weight. He thought of Sian’s glorious cooking. A month of her skills in the kitchen would soon see him right. He dodged around an arctic truck, then weaved around a tanker. He couldn’t get to London quick enough but he wasn’t stupid. He had every intention of getting there in one piece. But the thrill of the ride, the beast between his legs, the superb engineering

and the horsepower at his command, it was intoxicating. Riding it was a way of releasing frustration after obeying orders, keeping low, dodging bullets. This was his time and a time he relished. Because the trip from wherever in the UK he landed to London to see Sian and Coben was almost like a mental debrief of his own. He didn’t mind a few hours being lost in the traffic, thinking of nothing but the next overtake, the next roundabout, dodging obstacles. It meant when he climbed those steps and unlocked the door, bent to take the children in his arms, he was in the right mindset. Killing, survival, being the best of the best, it could sit on a shelf for a while and he could just be himself with

the people he loved and who loved him. He sped past a queue of slowing traffic, pleased the usual jams and road works wouldn’t slow him down. He had only one thing on his mind and that was relaxing, preferably naked, with Sian and Coben. Of course he wanted to spend time with Shelly and Tristan too, but he mainly needed to be held, reminded of why he fought so damn hard to come home each time. Thinking of Shelly and Tristan made him smile. They were three now and full of beans. Inquisitive about everything and soaking up information like sponges. Last time he’d been on leave he’d taken them, with Coben because Sian had been working at

Dragon’s Ink, to London Zoo. Their shrieks of delights when the elephants had flicked water around still rang in his ears. Tristan had even declared he wanted to be an elephant when he grew up. The road in front of him opened and he tipped farther forward and let the engine roar. Sian would have organized for the twins to go to their grandmother’s. That’s what she usually did when he called to say he was coming home. She was amazing, so understanding. She got that he needed headspace before he could rock back into daddy mode. The things he’d done, seen, been part of took a while to get out of his brain. It was a process. One he

hadn’t particularly enjoyed in the past but now that he had Coben and Sian to work through it with him—the later parts after debrief at least—it was considerably more tolerable. After time with them his patience levels would be higher, his capacity for fun and his longing to get down on the floor and play Lego and draw and make up stories for Tristan and Shelly would be unstoppable. Finally he saw the signs for the M25. He only needed to whizz round a few junctions. Luckily the traffic, for once, was flowing and soon he was heading into North London. It was like running a gauntlet the closer he got to Bromley Street. Pedestrians, bicycles, a

stray dog, all crossed his path. As he turned onto the neat road he called home, he spotted Sian’s mother’s car parked at the end, likely the only space when she’d arrived. He liked Margaret. She was kind and sweet, though always a little confused by his presence. Maybe one day they’d tell her more, tell her that they were a threesome, in love and would be together forever, but that was up to Sian. He pulled up, right outside number 37, and killed the engine. He dismounted and stretched, locking his fingers together and pushing his hands over his head. His spine ached from being hunched for three hours and his legs were stiff.

After tugging off his helmet he headed up the steps. He used his key to let himself in. As he shut the door up he heard Sian’s voice coming from the living room. “Tristan, Shelly, who’s here? I just heard the door?” There was a scramble of what sounded like toys being discarded. Then two tiny people ran into the hallway. “Daddy,” Shelly shouted. Her blonde hair was in pigtails and she was wearing a pink dress and matching woolen tights. She looked every inch the little princess. “Daddy, Daddy,” Tristan yelled, hurling himself past his sister and into Edward’s arms.

“Hey, guys,” Edward said, stooping and pulling them both close. “How are you doing?” “I’ve got a new bike,” Tristan said, putting his small hands on Edward’s cheeks as if claiming his attention first. “And I drew you a picture,” Shelly said, “for when you was away.” “That’s great, Trist, I can’t wait to see you ride it.” Edward turned to Shelly. “Will you show me?” “Yes.” She wriggled from his embrace and dashed off. Tristan wasn’t so keen to let go and Edward ruffled his dark hair and set a kiss on his cheek. He smelled sweet and perfect with a hint of the baby

shampoo Sian still used for the children. “Hey.” Edward stood, Tristan in his arms. The sight of Sian, even in just jeans and a plain red sweater, was enough to send a blast of need rushing through him. “Hey yourself,” he said, walking up to her and setting a kiss on her cheek. What he really wanted to do was drag her away from everyone, rip off her clothes and sink deep until everything that had happened in Kabul melted away, until she was crying out his name and begging for more. But of course he couldn’t, not right now. There would be time for that, though. “Hello, Edward.”

“Margaret, you’re looking well,” Edward said, smiling at Sian’s mum and tucking his keys away. “Thank you, so are you.” He didn’t, he’d lost weight, but that was okay, it was the polite thing to say. “I don’t quite know why the twins insist on calling you daddy,” she said. Edward looked at Tristan, who was sucking his thumb now and snuggled against his neck. “I guess I spend a lot of time with them when I’m on leave.” “But, really, I think, because Coben is their—” “It’s fine, Mum.” Sian rested her hand on her mother’s arm. “They’re young, it’s what they do, get muddled.”

“I suppose.” “As long as they’re happy,” Sian added. “Daddy, look.” Shelly came rushing back with a piece of paper. She flapped it at Edward. He stooped and again scooped her up so he was holding both children. Shelly’s blue eyes were flashing with pride as she presented her scribbles. “I love it,” Edward said, smiling. “Can I keep it?” “Yes. It’s for you.” Shelly pressed a kiss to his cheek. “Ouch, you’re sharp.” Edward laughed. “Yes, I’m afraid I am.” And your mother loves it, he

wanted to add but didn’t. “Well, we really should be going,” Margaret said and looked at her watch. “I don’t want to get stuck in traffic.” “Thanks for this, Mum. I really appreciate it.” Sian reached for Shelly, who went into her arms. “Well it’s hardly a chore to look after my two adorable grandchildren for a day or two is it.” “They’re not easy, though, constantly on the go. If you need me to pick them up early just call.” “We’ll be fine, won’t we, kids?” “Are we going to the park to feed the ducks?” Tristan asked. “Like we did last time.” “If you want to.”

Tristan nodded, then wriggled. Edward put him down, already missing the feel of his son’s tiny body in his arms. “I’ll help you to the car,” Sian said, picking up an overnight bag covered in images of zoo animals. “With their stuff.” “That would be great.” Margaret took Tristan’s hand. “Come on, you, we’ve got so much fun to have.” “Nice to see you, Margaret.” Edward smiled at her. “And you, I hope you have a restful leave.” “I’m sure I will.” “Back in a few minutes,” Sian said. “I’ll shut the door. I’ve got keys.

Mum’s parked right at the end of the road.” “Yes. I saw.” The door shut and as silence descended Edward blew out a long, low breath. This was where he’d wanted to be for so long. “You’ve lost weight.” He looked up. Coben stood at the top of the stairs. He had his arms folded and wore black jeans and a black roll neck. He had a concerned expression on his face. Edward thought his heart would flip over itself with love. Coben looked gorgeous. Like everything he’d dreamed of and more and Edward wanted it all, the dream and the more.

“Things got a bit dicey out there,” he said, striding to the bottom of the stairs. “I’m glad you’re back safe.” “Not going to let those bastards get the better of me.” He took the steps two at a time until he reached the top. He came face-to-face with Coben and stared into his hazel eyes. “Fuck I’ve missed you and Sian. I always do, but this time…I just really fucking did.” “So show us just how much.” The right side of Coben’s mouth tilted into a smile. Edward ran his hand around the back of Coben’s neck. “She’s taken the kids to the car.” “So we’ll start without her. She’ll

soon catch up.” “I like your way of thinking.” Edward pulled Coben close and kissed him. A hot, hungry kiss that barely scratched the surface of what he wanted. Coben groaned and fisted the lapels of Edward’s leather jacket. “This way,” Edward said, releasing Coben’s neck and grabbing his hand. “In the bedroom.” He marched forward with only one thing on his mind —fucking. Coben followed, kicking the door shut as he went into the room. Edward’s mind was full of scenarios. He wanted to bury deep in Coben. He wanted Sian too. His ass quivered at the thought of Coben

plundering into him, taking him to where he needed to go. Yes. That’s what he craved. “Fucking fuck me,” he said to Coben. “Now.” He shoved at his leathers and his cock sprang out. “Bend the hell over, then, soldier,” Coben said, pushing roughly at the center of Edward’s back so he faced the end of the bed. “If you want it like that.” “I do.” He discarded his jacket but left his t-shirt on. That could stay. This moment was all about priorities, getting the essential part accessible. He placed his hands on the wooden footboard and spread his legs. Coben was at the drawer, taking the lid off the lube.

“Hurry up,” Edward said, shocked at how guttural his voice was. Coben looked at him. Dark, frantic need flashed over his face. Edward groaned and took his cock in his hand, squeezed his shaft and hoped he wouldn’t come too soon. Coben shoved at his jeans as he strode back behind him. “Get in me,” Edward said, shutting his eyes. A hard slap landed on his ass. “Ahh…” he breathed. “Give me a chance,” Coben said. “I need to…” “No.” Another slap The pain only added to the urgency

of the moment. It sang over his nerve endings. “Just shove in. No prep.” “You sure?” “Yeah…” Suddenly the head of Coben’s lubed cock was at his pucker. Edward braced his elbow and hung on to the bed. He gripped his balls with his fingers and pressed the palm of his other hand against his shaft. God, he wanted to come already. “You asked for it…” Coben said, pushing forward. Edward felt his anus stretching, widening around Coben’s thick glans. “More,” he demanded. “I need it.” Coben didn’t let up. He shoved in, fast, a slick ride to full depth until their

balls were mashed together. Edward gasped and arched his back. Coben filled him so perfectly, so deep. His prostate came alive, sending pleasure from his back passage through his balls to his cock. He rubbed up and down his shaft, masturbating to make the pleasure grow. Coben pulled almost out, then surged back in. “Yes, yes, take me.” “Fuck…” Edward groaned. Coben repeated the action, gripping Edward’s waist to hold him in place as he rammed into his hole over and over. Edward felt so possessed, so wonderfully violated. The bliss was growing like a pressure cooker about to explode.

“You boys started without me.” Sian’s voice entered his consciousness. “We had to…” Coben said. “Fuck, it was just there…” “Sian.” Edward turned to her. “I need you too…” “I’m here.” She stroked his hair. Her palm was cool on his hot, sweat-damp scalp. He moaned, wanting to fuck her too. Wanting it all. “What else do you need?” she asked by his ear, her voice full of sinful promise. “You, my cock…” His words were stilted because of the way Coben was ramming into him. “Suck…” “With pleasure.” She sank to her

knees. Edward watched as she folded beneath him and peeled his fingers from his cock. Damn, Sian gave amazing blow jobs that teased and tempted. He never could last long but with Coben plundering his ass so expertly at the same time…he wouldn’t last more than a minute or two. She swirled her tongue around his glans and dipped into his slit. “Ah, baby.” He pressed his hand over her head. “I ain’t going to last.” The hot, wet inside of her mouth wrapped around his shaft as she took him deep. Her tongue curled around him and she stroked her nails over his balls. “Oh, God…” he moaned, closing

his eyes again. This was it, his two lovers giving him what he needed. Promises of this were what made sleeping in ditches and catching reptiles to eat worthwhile. This was life. This was living. He no longer just existed. He now had that special something called love to keep him warm and damn the sex was good that went with it. “Fuck, I’m coming,” Coben said. “Your sweet ass is gripping me like a fucking fist.” He rained several more slaps onto Edward’s buttocks, each one a lick of fire. Edward moaned and jerked, sinking deeper into Sian. He loved the bite of a slap just before he unloaded. It made his skin join in with the orgasm.

“I’m…I’m…” he managed. “Sian…” She pulled him even deeper and swallowed, tugging the end of his cock with the back of her throat. Coben shunted to full depth and rode through his release. Edward yelled as cum shot up his cock in a hot streak of ecstasy. His ass was contracting around Coben, his belly tight as if the pleasure in his balls went to his very core. Sian swallowed more, taking his release into her body. He gripped her hair, pushed lower, shoved back for more of Coben. It was so much. Lights flashed behind his closed lids as his release went on and on. The power of it almost stunning him. It had been so long.

“Ah, fuck…” he managed. “Yeah…don’t stop.” Coben slowed, his thick cock continuing to stretch Edward’s hole. Sian used her hands to stroke his shaft and played with his balls, rolling them in her palm the way he adored. His knees felt weak, so he locked them and relaxed his tight hold on Sian’s hair. “Welcome home,” Coben said, rubbing over Edward’s no doubt red ass cheeks. “It’s the best bit of going…away,” Edward managed. “Can you tell we miss you?” Sian stood and cupped his face. “A lot.” “Yes. But not as much as I miss

you guys.” He sucked in a breath as Coben pulled from his ass. “Damn, I hope we can do that again later.” He straightened. “We have two full nights before the twins are back,” Sian said, reaching for the base of his t-shirt. “To do everything as many times as you want.” She pulled the top up and off. “Now there’s an offer I’m not going to refuse.” He kissed her. She ran her hands over his chest, then pulled back. “You’ve lost weight.” “Wasn’t much to eat.” “Well,” she pulled him close, “we’ll soon sort that.” “I’m counting on it, though I do have to consume more calories than I

expend. If Coben is planning on being that energetic I’ll need a lot more food than usual.” Coben put one arm around Edward and one around Sian. “I seem to remember it was you demanding a quick, hard fuck.” “And that’s what I got,” Edward said. “Thank you.” Coben chuckled. “No thanks necessary, though we do have a gorgeous woman here who is one orgasm behind.” “I’m sure you two soldiers can think of a way to even the score,” Sian said, her eyes sparkling with lust. “Indeed we can.” Edward reached for the button on her jeans. He had lots of ideas for evening the score. And many

more ideas for what he wanted to do in the next forty-eight hours. He was pretty damn sure Coben and Sian would be up for all of it. Because whenever he came home from a mission it was a celebratory feeling that came over them all and for that he counted himself very fortunate. How many men had two lovers? He had two people to miss him and care for him, to worry about him and make love to him when he returned. Yes. Edward Mooreland was a seriously lucky bastard even if he did get shot at regularly. The End

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