Whiskeys Redemption (Crown and) - Kerri Ann(ang

Copyright 2017 by Kerri Ann Cover art by Bound to Be Book Covers Edit by Rebel Edit & Designs Formatting by Bound to Be Book Formats All rights reserved. This book is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. No part of this book may be reproduced in any form or by any electronic or mechanical means, including information storage and retrieval systems, without written permission from the author, except for the use of brief quotations in a book review. Any unauthorized distribution, circulation or use of this text may be a direct infringement of the author’s rights, and those responsible may be liable in law accordingly. Thank you for respecting the work of this author.

Kerri Ann. Whiskey's Redemption, Book four in the Crown and Anchor Series.

Acknowledgments This was a fun write. You can thank my Betas for the man he is. Yes, my own growly man lead the way to creating how Whiskey reacts, taunts, teases and tortures, but if the girls that helped me shape him, there may have been a different man to love. When I started the Crown series these characters demanded to have a story of their own. Shouted is more like it. Carli with her sarcasm, wit and insane loyalty needed a man that could complement that. She needed a leash. So after a few hundred times of Christina PA telling me she needed her man on paper, I had to live up to the expectation of him. He’s not the only one she tells me that needs life on paper, but he was the most demanding one. As always my mother won’t read most of the story as there’s sex, but she loves them just the same. In the morning conversations we have--because she’s just slightly insane like me and her thoughts can be entertaining, she gives me tons to write about. To my dad, the original strong silent type. To my children who listen to my ideas as I figure out characters and storylines, you are the best things I’ve created.

Thank you to the readers, beta’s, editor extraordinaire Dana, design guru Leanne, the Dirty Little Heart Breakers and the Diritest girls. Super Duper Ops you are a necessity in my daily life to keep me grounded, laughing and entertained, and without you my survival in this venue would be minimized. I respect you more than I can ever explain, and I love you to bits. Christina this book boyfriend is yours and I’m glad you decided to share him. Belinda, Lisa, Sophie and Christina you all had dibs on him but you were smart and let her keep him. To the bloggers, Enticing Journey, Itsy Bitsy Book Bits and the rest of the amazing pages on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter that share my stories. Thank you. Remember there is always a grain of truth to my stories. Something that has happened to me can appear in the pages, and this one was no different. I’m so glad you let me show you a piece of my world, that you enjoy the worlds I create, and that you hold out for more.

Dedication Always and forever, to the man that is my Whiskey, the friends that cause me to drink, and the children that make me want to be better everyday.

Table of Contents Title Page Copyright Acknowledgments Dedication Prologue Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Chapter 6 Chapter 7 Chapter 8 Chapter 9 Chapter 10 Chapter 11 Chapter 12 Chapter 13 Chapter 14 Chapter 15

Chapter 16 Chapter 17 Chapter 18 Chapter 19 Chapter 20 Chapter 21 Chapter 22 Chapter 23 Chapter 24 Chapter 25 Chapter 26 Chapter 27 Chapter 28 Chapter 29 Chapter 30 Chapter 31 Chapter 32 Chapter 33 Chapter 34 Chapter 35 Chapter 36 Chapter 37

Chapter 38 Chapter 39 Chapter 40 Chapter 41 Chapter 42 Chapter 43 Chapter 44 Chapter 45 Chapter 46 Chapter 47 Chapter 48 Chapter 49 Chapter 50 Chapter 51 Chapter 52 Chapter 53 Chapter 54 Chapter 55 Chapter 56 Chapter 57 About the Author Books by Kerri Ann

Jamieson — The Past The biting winds as trees whip past at breakneck speeds, cutting the snow’s harsh edges with my board is the best feeling. Well, besides this. “Yes! Yes! Yes!” she screams as I pound into her, all while smacking her ass. I love the look of the red welts that rise. Pushing her body into the wall, flattening her chest against it, my hips piston faster and faster knowing my end is near. “More, Whiskey, more! Please!” she pants, smiling through the abuse.

“Hold on.” I spread her legs wider and grip her hips tight. The woman in front of me is taking everything I’m giving her. Her squeals, screams, and moans push me toward my end with a fervor. Slapping her ass cheek again, I watch as the red lines rise. Knowing I’m seconds from release, my body takes over and my mind clears of all thoughts but this moment. In and out. In and out. The animalistic need controls me. With a few final thrusts, my body shakes and shivers. Grinding out, growling my end, my need is slaked. For the moment. Grunting as I pull back from her body, holding the condom in place, she whines when the fullness ends. “Whiskey.” Moving away toward the trash, I wrap up the package and toss it away before wandering off to start the shower, leaving her standing in my bedroom. With the water rushing out, I don’t hear her come up behind me. Wrapping her arms around my body, she kisses my back. I’m ignoring her because when I’m done, that’s it. I always ignore them. They don’t matter. “Hey Whiskey, what do ya say we hit the far trail after? There’s an abandoned cabin up there, and we could—” “Sorry,” I say as I open the shower door, “I have other plans today.”

“Well what about tomorrow? I could—” Walking into the shower, I turn back to face her. “Look, it was fun…” I pause because I can’t remember her name. “It was fun, but it’s done.” “Jessica. My name is Jessica.” She’s pissy that I just fucked her against my wall after meeting her only a few hours ago. Hell, what did she expect? “You walked up to me at the lift and asked for a ride. What made you think I cared what your name was?” “Whiskey, I thought we had fun?” “Yeah, we did, and it’s done.” All women are needy and greedy. “I don’t do relationships, and you’ll never find me hanging around for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. I don’t date.” I close the door to the shower. “But thanks for the fun.” I don’t turn to look to see if she’s still there. I don’t worry that she’ll take something before she leaves as a souvenir, and I don’t doubt that she’ll throw something because they all do it. I’m so used to it now, I don’t even balk at the damage. When I’m done cleaning up, I exit the shower with only a towel and a smile. Walking into my spare bedroom, I find my Aunt Janie, smiling. It’s a fake, but it’s a smile nonetheless. “Another one bites the dust?” Shrugging my shoulders, I head out of the room and dress. My room is down the hall, but I

don’t bring girls to my suite. It’s my refuge. This is where they all get a piece of me, and I keep them separate from where I find peace. “You know at some point, something is going to happen to you. The great Jamieson Crown will bow at the feet of a woman that will crush his ass. Your head will spin so fast, no amount of pussy will keep you entertained. She’s going to cause you grief, and I’ll stand back here, smiling and watching it all unfold with a shit-eating grin on my face.” My aunt is totally wrong. Nobody cares for me but me. No one will ever get past this cold heart again, and no one will ever shatter my soul. Been there, done that. It ain’t happening again. I go with bypassing the conversation we have every time one of these girls leave. “What’s on the docket today?” I don’t worry about dressing around my aunt. She’s seen me naked more than dressed. Pulling on a pair of tracks, leaving them low, I toss on a Tshirt. “You have training with the Olympic team tomorrow, but there’s nothing today. Why don’t you hit the hills for a while? I can call in the chopper. Just have some you time, Jamieson.” “Yeah, I might do that.” It’s always me time. I’m always alone, and I like it that way. “Did you see that Doll won another race yesterday?”

My little sister is taking the motorcycle world by storm, just like my little brother. The two of them are devils on two wheels, just like I’m a devil on a board. Give me snowcapped mountains and I’m satisfied. And that’s why I’m alone. I need the cold, they need the heat. “Yeah. I saw Dad won another one, too.” “You know, you should go visit soon. Isn’t Wyatt’s nineteenth birthday coming up?” Shit. I should send him a card, or a stripper gram. That would piss of Mother. “Yeah. I’ll give him a call later.” “You have a break in a few weeks, so why not go visit? Give him a present in person.” She’s always trying to repair the rift, but nothing ever will. We’re just too different, and the past has ruined us all. “Call the chopper, I’ll head out in a few.” Knowing I’ve just shut down on her, Aunt Janie purses her lips and walks away. I don’t even have to look because that’s what she always does. I wish I wasn’t alone. I wish I had my family, but it was torn apart long ago, and I’m not the one to fix it.

Jamieson — Present Day “Fuck me ten ways to Sunday! No, you don’t get it. If I don’t have that whore on the plane in twenty minutes, I’ll be the one giving him a handy.” I can easily hear everything she says, mainly because of her volume. She’s definitely making the poor soul on the other end of the phone piss their pants. I like women like her, women with fire. Only thing is I’d just left my brother Wyatt’s hospital room, and the very last thing I need is further chick

drama after my sister’s pouting. Dealing with family has been a strain on my patience. I’m in California after all, the worst place for someone like me to be. I’m here for my family after the death of my estranged mother and hospitalization of my little brother after a car accident that nearly cost him and his girlfriend their lives as well. I’d rather be home in Colorado with hard packed snow and easy women. Women with sass are fantastic, but I want easy after the troubles of today. This one sounds like heaps of trouble. Her tone is husky and familiar, but that happens a lot when you’ve screwed as many women as I have. Honestly, I’m not a nosy fuck, and I really couldn’t give a shit what this girl is talking about— so vividly in a public hospital, I might add—but I find I’m intrigued as I round the hall toward the elevator bank. Waiting around the corner as I listen like a stalker, I hear her say, “I’m so pissed.” Stepping around the corner, I lean against the wall, checking her out from head to toe. As she paces, continuing to talk wildly into the phone, I know who she is immediately. She’s in a neat gray pant suit, black heels with the telltale red insteps, and a light gray, fluttery, see-through shirt showing her pretty gray bra that showcases her rosy nipples.

Her jet-black hair is pin straight and pulled into a high ponytail. Well, shit. Beautiful as always, Carli. “I know it doesn’t matter. I just hate that she shushed me out the door like a common garden rat. She’s my friend and I deserve to see her. Her boyfriend’s sister shouldn’t be allowed to tell me off. If I ever cared to involve—” Turning, she sees me. Her eyes widen, her stance stiffens, and those baby blue eyes glare daggers at me. “I’ll call you back.” She abruptly ends the call and directs her full attention my way and I smile. Actually, I give her a sarcastic grin that I’ve learned gets me into heaps of trouble when I use it. Right now, that’s exactly what I want. “Carli, nice to see you again.” “Asshole,” she sneers. She neatly places her phone into a slot in her shoulder bag, which is dangling close to the floor, treating her twentythousand-dollar Louis like gutter trash. Stepping close, I reach past her, selecting the down button for the elevator and ask, “Were you here turning tricks?” “Were you here visiting a ski bunny?” she quips back without looking at me. “Snowboard, Carli. I ride snowboards.” Smirking, I run my tongue along my teeth,

remembering the last time this fireball and I crossed paths. “I’m sure you’re not picky,” she mutters. Trying to hold her ground with a mean, sullen stare, I step in even closer so she has to look up. Breathing by her ear, I get a whiff of her perfume which is goddamn intoxicating. It’s that floral shit I normally find to be a turn off, but fuck, it’s nice on her. I know I’m playing a dangerous game of chicken, and I’m not sure who’s going to win this shit as Carli can give me a run for my money. And I know she’s enjoying this, just like I know I am. “Let me remind you what it is, Carli. It’s long, wide, hard, and meant to be ridden for hours.” She doesn’t flinch, but looks straight up at me, throwing off the heat of a thousand suns. I’m taunting her. Carli’s as insatiable as they come. The woman could burn a planet. She could literally fry eggs with a glare. Why I let her get to me isn’t a fucking mystery, though. I let her because it’s fun and challenging. I like challenges. It’s been a long time since something or someone has challenged me. “Crown, you can go play with your little wooden toys. I prefer the real thing.” Reaching out, she strokes her hand up my leg, coming dangerously close to my cock. Carli sighs and lets out a sweet little grunt as she brushes her knuckles across the soft bulge in my jeans. “Sorry, but this

might not be enough for someone like me.” Grasping her hand, I hold her still against my jeans. “You’d be amazed what happens when the lights go low and the monster gets loose. I’m sure you’d change your tune to a few well-timed screams and moans, Katana.” With a chime, breaking our silent singular moment, the doors to the elevator open. Releasing her grip on my cock, I move away. Sauntering right into the waiting carriage as if nothing’s amiss, I push the close button. “I don’t think there’s enough room in here for your ego and kick ass bravado, Katana. You can wait for the next one.” Tossing her heavy purse high onto her shoulder, she walks toward me, stepping in gracefully as she grins with glee before giving me her back. “With a winky like that, Crown, let’s not play this game and say we did.” She presses the same button ten times in a row. She’s well and worked up. Good. At least I’m not alone. Listening to her fingernails clicking on the surface, I imagine them scraping down my skin, leaving wide red marks that will hold for a few hours, even a few days. I wonder if she’d draw blood? I think I’d like that. Trying to change the subject before my cock makes it apparent what I want, I ask, “Were you

here seeing Circe?” Hoping to arouse her ire further, I add, “Was it my sister that kicked you out like a rat?” Flinching slightly at my remark, her jet-black ponytail swings around in wild abandon. I have an urge to grip it tight. Part of me wants to train the wild out of her, but I’d rather have her fire. It arouses me. To tame a woman like her would be a fucking waste. “Nope,” she quips, popping the ‘p.’ “Santa broke his back on my chimney last year trying to carry the sparkly new Benz down. I felt horrible for him, so I thought I’d bring him milk and cookies, as well as a mind-blowing blowjob. Mrs. Claus asked me to, as she’s too busy fucking the elves.” That’s it. Pushing her shoulders up against the closed doors, I grind out, “Damn, woman.” Covering her filthy mouth with mine, the fire within her fights me just enough that I know she was hoping for it. With her expensive bag falling to the floor of the elevator, her lips smash greedily against mine. Her long, perfect tongue fights for control as I try to keep her in my grip, and in my arms. Carli has this innate way of dragging an antagonistic attitude out of me. I learned that the last time we ran across one another. Dammit, I want to push her. I want to crash against her body and hold her still, but at the same

time, I want to let that fire loose. I want to let it engulf me. She’s dangerous, and it’s so fucking attractive. With a bing of the elevator, the doors open, invading our quiet. Grasping Carli by the hips, I drag her away before her lithe little body spills into the hall. Breaking away from my grip, I watch as she straightens her outfit, smooths her silken pony tail, and re-shoulders her Vuitton bag, making her the picture of perfection once more. As an older couple walk inside, hand in hand, the two of us move to separate corners of the elevator, and as the doors close, I’m watching her every move. My blood still rises with the thoughts that are running rampant, and I’d love nothing more than to tell the people standing in our space that this carriage is occupied. I want to hit that emergency button and show her how easy it is to tear off silk. But I don’t. The sweetness of the older couple restrains me. Three floors later the doors open, and before I can say another word, Carli’s scuttling out beside the aged couple. I don’t chase her. I should, but I don’t, even if I’d rather put that woman over my knee and spank the sass out of her.

Carli Cursing myself all the way to my car, I let the warm breeze cool me down. Wearing a thin silk shift today probably wasn’t the best idea, but I love to taunt. Did I think I’d get away with taunting Crown? Nope. Shaking off the heated moment, my brain finally starts back up. Letting my libido take over is normally a great idea, but with him? Fuck me. It’s a truly bad idea to let him get to me. There’s nothing

I’d rather have than that man’s hands on my body and his lips on mine. Jamieson Crown ticks off all my boxes. With soft commanding lips, a gorgeous face full of beard, and an almost painful grip on my body, he pulled me close. His thick frame and wide shoulders are appealing, but as Jamieson’s enormous Billy club protruded into my stomach when he yanked me close, I realized what he is. Danger. “Had to find a Crown to fall in love with, huh, Circe? They’re dangerous, sexy, walking erotic dreams. His damn brother has me needing Jai. Are you happy, Circe!” I yell out as I’m walking to my car. Talking to myself as I venture across the open garage, I anticipate the thought of getting myself off to crush this tension. You can’t blame a girl for having a wicked need, and seeing there’s no worthy specimens wandering to their cars at the same time as me, my battery-operated tool will have to do. Reaching my car in record time, the door clicks as I place my hand in the handle. Tossing my bag onto the semi-heated leather, I crank the air conditioner up after relocking the door. Thank fuck for remote starts or my ass would fry in these linen slacks. Leaving the window screen in place, giving myself a touch of shade and a smidge of privacy, I pull the bright pink tool out of the zippered section of my bag.

Looking around to make sure I’m not visible in this public space, I quickly undo the top of my pants and talk to my vibrator. “Time for you to do your job, Jai.” No lube is necessary, as Mr. Cocky-as-fuckCrown has raised my heartrate and quickly stepped up my production of needing to get off. Inserting the wide end in, I leave the rabbit section to do its job, groaning at the slight pressure as its length fills me. I haven’t even turned it on yet and I’m ready to go off like a weak teenager. “Fuck you, Crown,” I say, flicking the switch to my favored setting. The vibration courses through my sensitive inner walls as the outer rabbit engages my clit. “Fuck.” Groaning at the instant contact, I relish the relief that’s just within reach. “Why’d you have to be so sexy, you fucker. Why’d—” As it reaches a particularly edgy point, my words hitch. “Why’d it have to be your arrogant ass that pulled this need from me? You’re such a prick.” As it reaches a point where I can almost tolerate it, I crank it to the next position. “Fuck me!” The level of ecstasy rises and my breathing quickens. My words are nonexistent, and my enjoyment is cresting to the point of pain. And honestly, I’m making myself hold off because I want more. I rock my hips through it. Bucking lightly in

the leather seat causes squeaking noises. I don’t give a shit. Pressing the button, bringing forth the last setting, my inner muscles tighten before I scream out my release. “Fuck! Fuck! Fuck, Crown! How the hell do you pull this need from me with a kiss?” Allowing my body to squeeze out every drop of release from my greedy pussy, I slowly back down Jai until reaching stop. Pulling it free, I grab a wipe from my glovebox and give it a quick cleaning before placing it back inside the hidden bag in my purse. If someone was to catch me cleaning a vibrator in my car after screaming my release, they’d either think I was a wanton whore, or was being raped. They’d be right about the whore thing anyways. When there’s a hard knock on my window, I draw my eyes to the person who’s interrupted my cleaning ritual and glare. I’m sure they understand how they’re both the instrument and the reason behind why I needed this. I set Jai on the center console. I should have expected that my day would go this way. Taking a deep breath and releasing it, I confront the interloper that’s ruined my euphoric high. As the window goes down, I squint my eyes behind my Ferragamo shades, trying my best to give him a disgusted look. Bastard yet again is here to halt my high. Unfortunately, the first thing I

notice is his hardened cock straining against his jeans, stretching out the material. I do my best to ignore it. “Can I help you?” I ask crassly. “I was going to ask you the same thing.” He gives me a wicked smirk, letting me know he caught me. But I’m not about to give him the satisfaction of thinking I’m embarrassed. I’m not. “You’re funny aren’t you, Mr. Crown. No, I have Mr. Courtney to keep me company.” I tap my hand on the bright pink toy that just helped me release my tension. “He doesn’t let me down. I don’t have to suck his cock, and he doesn’t desert me after he gets off. So no, I’m just fine.” Pressing the button, I raise the window and slam my car into gear. If I ran over his feet as I sped out of the parking lot, I didn’t notice. Looking in the rearview mirror, I see him standing there, as if in disbelief.

Jamieson Fuck! That woman. I can’t even put into words how amazing she is. Walking away from me at the elevator, stomping mad and needing a release, her steps hitched as she adjusted her linen slacks. To think, she was that bothered by our kiss. Her rubbing one out in her car was the furthest thing from my mind, but it was fucking perfection. I may not have expected it, but walking up to her car, looking to

finish that kiss, I didn’t envision her using a bright pink power tool. I listened to her loud cry as her orgasm rose, causing a russet blush to appear on her china white skin. The rocking motion of her riding the wave of her orgasm as it built was damaging to my resolve. Gawking at it all, it took everything in me not to rip open her door, peel those pants down and slam myself to the hilt between her thighs. Thinking about it, spanking her would be a treat indeed, leaving my palm mark on that globed ass with her face pressed up against her car hood. Staying until the end of her release wasn’t my intention, but I couldn’t tear myself away. So, waiting until she’d placed the hefty toy on the dash, I stayed silent. Adjusting my cock, I then tapped on her driver’s side window. She didn’t even flinch. With a brief conversation and her peeling out of the parking lot in her own kind of style, I held back my laughter until she was out of sight. “Third time’s a charm, Crown,” I tell myself, walking to my rental car. Seeing her at my father’s funeral, she’d caught my eye. I’d expected we’d be in bed after a few timely crass words, sexually charged fights, and perfectly placed hands. Leaving her at the track, then engaging in a horrific dinner with my family, my mind consistently undressed her as I munched down on my steak. Yeah, Wyatt sparked the

argument, or maybe it was mother. Either way, it gave me time to text the sexy Asian beauty. Somehow, someway, her fire engaged me and cooled my ice-cold heart. I keep women at a distance, emotionally. Their bullshit, their drama, and their lacking morals are what I always seem to find. Do I care? No. A wet pussy, an open mouth, and a greedy ass are all that keep me entertained, usually. But her mind far surpasses any easy women I’ve met before. Clicking the remote for the door of the rental, I hop into the blistering hot seat and crank up the air. Fuck, it’s hot here. I want to go home more than anything. It’s been months of this heat, bullshit with the family business and the hospital. My only respite has been the shop I bought here. It’s given me a reason to vacate the hospital and avoid the history of the past that haunts me as I think about my parents and their deaths. Throwing the car in gear, I talk to myself as I pull out of the parking lot. “Thank fuck you’re awake, Wyatt. I need back to the cold before my insides burn up in this California heat.” Checking the time, I have a half hour before I need to be at the shop. I bought it on a whim, and I’ve only been there once. Gruber, the guy running it for me, texted earlier about an issue with the building. Pulling up the address on the GPS, I drive straight over. Gruber was once a great surfer, but

the puss-ass shit he does now makes him no better than a street racer turned executive bigwig. You can push the high-powered guy to the gutter, but the gutter can’t truly be a star. Your fate is decided by those pinnacle points in your life that defined you long before you were born. Yeah, in name I’m a Crown, but my edges are rusted, my diamonds are cracked, and the luster has worn off. Growing up as a kid, I saw all the powerful, pompous assholes that thought their shit smelled like five hundred dollar Gianni Versace eau de cologne, or perfume. No, their shit just stunk worse than the fragrances they used to mask it. Take away the shine and they’re still just assholes looking to climb the ranks. Me? Well, I had a powerful, fantastic, and warm, loving father that I needed to make proud. Did I? No. Some days I wonder if he even remembered I was a Crown, or even his son. When my dad was alive, he lived a life full of motor oil and exhaust. I like the fresh air, the brisk cold, and the sound of absolutely nothing. The rumble of a bike and well-tuned cars sound great, sure, but I’d rather a helo to take me to the heights where no one else ventures. Tamping down the snow first is perfection to me. Looking back up at your tracks and seeing you’re the only crazy motherfucker up there is priceless. Yeah, I do the comps and the X-Games, but to hit the slopes by

my house in Colorado is way better than anything else. Not one member of my family ever visited me for a weekend of riding the slopes. In all honesty, their California skin couldn’t handle the cool air. Yeah, Wyatt visited when he could, but it was to hang out and talk about family shit and the will that hung over our heads. Now I’ll never have that chance with my parents again. Death has taken care of that, unfortunately, so it’s just me and my siblings. Pushing the ‘poor me’ mood out, I concentrate on the drive down La Cienega. The sun’s beaming down, steaming up my frosted edges, and I’ve had the air conditioning running in this car nonstop to avoid the blistering heat. It’s unbelievable how bad I find this heat after living in the mountains for so long. Pulling up in front of the tiny side street, I signal the turn. Waiting for the long line of slow drivers, I finally have a chance to advance through. Turning through the first lane, I’m almost through the second when I feel the car jerk. “Fuck me. Now I know why I love it in Colorado. The fucking traffic here is ridiculous.” Wondering what the hell happened, I’m spinning around in the seat to look for the culprit. “Could this shit day get any worse?” Damage on this cheap ass rental is not what I needed today.

Unbuckling my belt and leaving the car, I’m honked at by no less than five road rage inductees. Stepping out, I wave my hand in the air. “Yeah, yeah, I get it. Some fucktard just ruined your day. Never mind that mine’s been a ball of fucking joy.” Kiss my ass. Stepping around to the back of the vehicle, it’s easy to see the issue. Stuck just under my bumper is a Smart Car with the tiniest little girl hiding her face. She rolls down her window when she sees me approach. “Please, please, don’t call the police. This will be my ninth accident in three months. I can’t have them involved.” “Sweetie, if this is your ninth accident, you need to hand me the keys to the jellybean and start fucking walking down the street.” While tears flow down her face, streaking her makeup until she looks like a Picasso, I’m yelled at by the surrounding motorists. Shit. As always, my growly voice scares teenagers. Sneering at the odd one and tossing up a few ‘fuck yous’ to the others, I feel sort of bad for giving her a hard time, so I decide to be nicer. “Look, stop crying. I can’t handle it. I’m just going down the street. Follow me and I’ll get your info. You don’t follow through, though, I’ll run you down with this rental.” Sniffling as she wipes her face on the back of her hand, she nods as she catches her breath.

Walking back to my door, I hop in and advance the rest of the way through the intersection, pulling off once I’m out of the way of the annoying masses. “Fuck me. First it’s Wyatt telling me about mother and their heart to heart, then seeing the woman that fires up my ‘fuck you’ attitude better than most. Now I’m late to the meeting with Gruber because of a bumper car and it’s blindfolded driver.” Taking the keys out of the car, I lock it up and start it remotely so the A/C will keep going, then walk over to the young, teary-eyed terrorist. She has her windows up tight while she talks on the phone. Attempting to ignore me, I tap her window. I’m surprised by the little ant as she holds a petite finger in the air, asking me to wait a second. “You have got to be kidding me.” Checking my watch, seeing that I’ll be beyond fucking late, I decide to call Gruber. Dialing him, he picks up on the third ring. “Powder Kings.” “Hey man, it’s Whiskey. I got into a fender bender with a ladybug so I’m gonna be a few minutes late.” Staring down at the little girl behind the wheel, she scrambles through paperwork as the phone falls from her ear. Bending to pick it back up, I watch her blunder through the conversation while trying to explain something.

“Yeah. I’m gonna be here for at least another hour,” Gruber states. “Cool. I’ll get out there as soon as I can. I’m just a few streets away, and it shouldn’t be more than a few minutes.” “No worries. See you soon.” With Gruber hanging up, I pocket my phone. Looking down on the driver, I tap the kid’s window again as I see she has herself straightened out and her phone set down. Hopefully, this means the little shit will come out to talk to me. Rolling her window down a smidgen, she leans forward. “Um, excuse me?” “Yeah?” “Are you Jamieson Crown, the snowboard racer?” A cute grin crosses her face and she lights up slightly. Not unusual, I get it all the time. “Yeah, I’m Jamieson.” Smiling brightly, she rolls the window down a touch more and passes an envelope out. I take it in hand, wondering what’s going on. “You’ve been served.” Whipping up the window fast, she slams the car in reverse and takes off into the oncoming traffic we’d just left. Before I even know what’s happened, I’m standing in the street with a fucking subpoena. I’m sure I know what it’s for, but I’m too damn curious not to look.

To Jamieson Harris Crown. With the untimely death of one Jaxson Crown and one Marca Crown, the reading of your father’s will was postponed until the outcome of your brother and co-heir, a one Wyatt Crown, was finalized. Now that Mr. Crown has awoken, we will commence with the reading and decisions of the will on… Zoning out to the details of the remainder of the letter, it seems I have no choice but to attend the bullshit meeting. The worst part of it is, that they want to schedule it for the day of our sister China’s court case. She won’t be able to attend, and I promised her that I’d be there to support her at court. Now, not only do I have to stand her up, but I have to go to the reading of the will without Wyatt. He’s in no shape to leave his bed, let alone the hospital. I scrunch up the letter and toss it in the backseat of my rental. Every nerve I own has been fucking set alight today. I want to tear down the world and everything in it to just be left alone, but no. Not one of these fuckers will leave me be. “So much fun being back in Cali,” I mutter, starting off. Gruber better have good news for me because my shit meter is fucking full, and I’m about to take it out on someone.

Carli “Ushered out like a piece of unwanted trash. Yep, that was fab. Then him! Yep. Not a blessing in disguise.” Cussing and cursing my predicament as I drive down Rodeo, I’m looking for a spot to park the car. I most definitely need retail therapy to get out of this funk mood. Rubbing it out with Jai didn’t fix it, and after being found by the same said man, I now need a better release. To be honest, I don’t care where I shop today, just as long as it fits like a glove, is

made from the finest materials, and is extravagantly overpriced. It will brighten my mood considerably. Seeing the demise of my black card, I park in front of Gucci. Parking and hopping out, I lock it. Standing in front of the silver shrine to excess, I walk quite proudly to the doors. “Welcome to Gucci, madam. Enjoy your shopping experience today,” the doorman greets me in a very cool and kindly manner. He’s neither indifferent nor welcoming, but I don’t give a shit that his attitude needs a check. Stepping inside, the crisp air conditioning that’s perfectly tempered entices me as it wraps around my soul. “Today is a good day to shop,” I mutter, not expecting an answer. “Very right you are. And how can I help you do that today?” a chipper voice asks from behind me. Turning around, standing in the window amidst the mannequins is a very pristinely dressed young man. His hair is short, but stylish. And his outfit? Oh, wow. His green and garish outfit is straight out of Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band video, and is awful for his skin tone. “I’m looking for access to the third floor. Could you let Jon Henry know I’m here? I’m in need of a retail release.” Hand on his hip, he frowns as he checks me out from head to toe, inspecting my attire. “I’m not sure you’re entitled to that section of the store.”

Looking at his garish nametag on the lapel of his jacket, I grasp the awful 3D, plum colored flower tightly. “Buddy, I’m happy to slam this fivethousand-dollar heel into your asshole and wear you as a slipper. Now, tell Jon Henry I’m here or I’ll gladly introduce you to my Louboutin’s.” “Now Carli, that would look absolutely ridiculous. He’s already wearing my size ten from this morning, aren’t you Simber?” With an obviously forced smile, the young man shrugs his shoulders and winks. “Of course, and they fit so well, sir.” “Run along now. Finish dusting the showcase,” Jon Henry quips as he flutters his fingers at Buddy / Simber. “It’s the closest you’ll get to touching a human being in this building if I have a say in it.” Nodding with a smirk, the imp abruptly spins on his heel with a sassy frown, delving back into the front window cabinet. “You called him Simber, but his tag says Buddy?” I question once we’re standing alone. With a ‘well duh,’ look, Jon Henry releases a heavy sigh, running his tongue along his teeth. “With a name like Simber and a brain like a tulip, he needed a new one. Besides, it’s Hollywood, and his parents are movie producers. That’s the only reason he works here.” Shuffling us off toward the back, acting as if the interaction I just had was with a trained monkey instead of Simber, Jon Henry

takes my bag. “Sorry to just drop by, but I’m in dire need today.” “I see that, and I’d expect no less of you. So, let’s get started, shall we?” Hitting the stairs, we walk off to the second floor, past security, and enter the third floor with ease. “Where’s the budget today, love?” “I hadn’t thought of it. Honestly, I needed to clear my head and shopping was the first thing that came to mind. Assume that we’re in the top end of the spectrum.” He knows my spectrum ranges from ‘I need a new outfit,’ to ‘I had my heart trampled by a rhino,’ and that the prices in there are excessive to obscene. “Well then,” he says, snapping his fingers, “let me get you settled first before we break open the special collections.” Setting me in a wide, yet functionally perverse satin arm chair, I watch as he and two of his girls saunter around, selecting and laying out various pieces for my perusal. “Would you care for an espresso?” one of the girls asks. “Sure, that would be lovely.” As she walks away and the others flitter around like little butterflies, I pull my phone out to text Circe. Before touching my finger to the screen, I stop. Today was horrible. She’s my best and only

friend, and it pained me to hold the info back about Wyatt. But the idea that I’d lose everything I own to that obscene legal contract was too much to ignore, so I held off. What bothered me the most is the way she rolled right out of there without a sideways glance with China. I bet Circe still has no idea that the contract was designed and orchestrated by the sweet and adorable China Crown that led her away. And it’s not like I would deny her knowing the truth, or seeing Wyatt when he was most in need. So yeah, it hurt to see her take China’s side. As the girl returns with my petite cup—adding the right amount of sugar and stirring it for me, I might add—I sip away, thinking of my friend. “I’m not begrudging her, you know. It’s just unfair that I was ushered out like last week’s takeout.” Surprised, and slightly unsure of what to do or say, the girl nods and quickly walks off before saying something she shouldn’t. Muttering into my cup, I say, “This day sucks.” Two hours later, thousands of dollars spent and a car full of nothing, my outfits, Jon Henry has assured me, will be delivered to my suite tomorrow. They’ll be perfectly pressed, neatly hung, arranged and color coded, and I’ll feel marginally better inside. Marginally. What I really need to do is correct the conversation with my friend.

After a long debate with myself, I decide that tomorrow I’ll revisit Circe at the hospital and apologize. I’ve been a horrible friend to her, if all I’d worried about were my feelings. She’s waited months to even know if her racer lived, all while I knew and withheld it. I’ve been a little jealous of their connection. It’s not fair to her. The next day, stopping at the deli around the corner from the hospital, I grab her one of her more disgusting, yet well-loved sandwiches and an ungodly large pickle spear. I know she’ll be ecstatic. I’ll apologize profusely to her for being such a hurt bitch when I left and we’ll be back to normal. Parking the car close and passing through the front of the hospital unscathed, I revel in the quiet. At this early hour, it’s normally packed. Heading across the grand entrance and toward the elevator doors, I’m still so surprised at the quiet, and honestly, a bit freaked. It’s only eleventhirty. This place should be teeming with people. Rounding the corner and heading to the door, my heart abruptly stops. Stepping out of the shadows, dressed in a pure black suit is someone I’d know anywhere, though I fucking wish I didn’t. “Kaori,” he greets formally, yet harshly in my native tongue. “You have the wrong person. My name is

Carli.” As my heart thunders, I hold my ground. “Kaori. No more hiding. You’re wanted home.” Shaking my head, I purse my lips. “I’m Carli, and I don’t know who this—” “Chinmoku,” he snaps. Silence. The firm and unyielding need to obey holds my tongue. Stepping closer, coming out of the shadow and close enough to touch, I stand still, taking in his gaze. “You are to return by the end of the week, or your sisters will be relocated to other family members.” He walks away without another word. I’m aghast that they’d threaten them. No, I’m more than that. Aghast is a light and sweet term for how I’m feeling. I’m afraid. What I’m most freaked out about is that I felt like I did as a child—obedient and pliant. Strength of will escaped me and I was once more that young girl that gave into others.

Whiskey Stepping into the shop, I’m bombarded by the harsh punk music flowing out of the speakers at a decibel that should leave any who enter deaf. I walk directly to the empty cashier’s desk. Spinning the knob for the volume, bringing the angst filled squelch way down, immediately the boards on the wall stop vibrating, and the clientele all turn my way. Fabulous. A new way to be singled out today. “Gruber!” I yell into the expansive zone. “He’s...Hey! You’re him, man! You’re a

fucking legend!” The kid, no older than my brother, beams with excitement as he tromps toward me. His bright board shorts hang low on his hips, his ripped blue RipZone tank is faded, and obviously well loved, and the perfectly coiffed, yet flowing, haphazard hair tells me he’s a surfer. I doubt he’s touched snow in his lifetime, but I respect him. The waves of the ocean give you almost the same exhilaration and feel. Knowing that you have only so much control over the element that you ride is what we chase. A wave can be as dangerous as a snow drift—unforgiving, yet ever changing. It’s harsh enough to sweep you away in a second, never to be heard from again. You would be a memory. That is what keeps us pushing harder against that unyielding foe. “Yeah, I guess I am.” Flicking the keys in my hand, I sneer. “The Legend.” That’s a first. “Yeah man, you’re him for sure. Anyway, Gru is out back testing some new blood.” Starting away from him, he sticks out his hand, expecting a quirky handshake or stupid high-five. Shaking my head and blowing out a heavy breath, I start off down the long row of merchandise. “Sorry man, not happening.” I’m not here for autographs or friendships. I’m here for business. Walking along, touching the odd board, I relish

the smooth texture of the face. The wax free base that awaits love and care is perfection. Our type of love is brutal. Every board has a soul that calls out to be ridden, and whether meant for water or snow, they want to be used. Hanging on a wall, waiting for the touch of greatness, most of these boards will be owned by some weekend warrior with a death wish to try out a rough wave with an ‘epic’ board. They’ll buy what they think is right by name instead of what’s best for their skill. The only thing it will create is work for the coast patrols when they have to drag out another dead body from the ocean. I see it all the time on the mountains. Hell, most times, I’m the rough bastard stopping some moron on the hill, ripping them off the board and making them walk back down as I carry their thousand-dollar board to the bottom. They don’t wear the right equipment, they don’t prepare for it, and they sure as shit don’t take lessons to learn how to ride. They’re a menace to those who know what they’re doing. Coming closer to the back of the building, I hear Gruber teaching a Wet Ear. “Good. Now lean to the left,” he says, just before I hear a big splash. Rounding the corner, I see the wave pool, and Gruber leaning against the wall. His T-shirt is wet, his hair is a mess from running his hands through it, and the scowl on his face tells it all. He’s beat. Looking my way, I give

him a chin raise. “Well look who’s here, the Powder King himself.” Walking over, he embraces me in a hug. I don’t like it, I never have, but it’s Gruber and it’s expected. He’s a hugger. “How’s the fish?” As a young girl half my sister’s age pops up out of the water, she drags her hair out of her face, grinning from ear to ear. “She’s persistent,” Gruber says, scowling deeper. “Meadow, go clean up. That’s it for today.” Jumping from the pool with a smile, Meadow heads off to the change rooms. Gruber slows the flow of the pool until the wave quits and the water quiets. Absently, I watch her walk away. She’s pretty, but it won’t save her on the unforgiving water. “She’s a fucking menace. She has no talent at all, but her father is an expert rider. She idolizes him. Sad, really. She’ll die to be the same as him.” “Ain’t that the truth. Why not stop her?” Huffing, he sags his shoulders. “I’ve told her she’s not ready for the water. I’ve told her father, too. She needs to find something else to do with him, but she’s the apple of his eye. He’ll deny her nothing.” “And what if I said she’s not welcome here anymore for training? Would it deter her, or push

her further to do it anyway?” Yeah, I’m sure she’ll just do it anyway, but it’s my business, and I can’t have a death on my head. Not one that I could prevent at least. “She’s stubborn. She’ll be back here in a week with more money. Dad’s some movie exec, more money than he knows what to do with. He’ll spend anything to make her happy.” That’s one father I idolize then. I’m not pissing and moaning about mine, but what I wouldn’t have given to hear he’d do anything to make me happy. Even just to say he was happy would’ve been a start. Pushing that out of mind, I get back to the task at hand. “You mind showing me the problem?” “Yeah.” Stepping off the wall, he motions with his fingers for me to follow. “Come this way.” Following Gruber down the row past the wave pool, past the snowboard / ski treadmills, we come to the very back of the building. Without him saying a word, I see it immediately. “When the fuck did this happen? And why didn’t you move them?” “What can I say, Whiskey? We haven’t had rain in years, and no one knew there was a leak in the roof. Fucking Cali weather this year is what caused it.” Picking one up, I thumb the swollen edges. The disaster is profound. “Fuck, Gru. There has to be fifty fucking

boards in here at least.” “Ninety-three.” I’m aghast, and disgusted. “What! Almost a hundred boards destroyed?” Looking at the pile, I can’t believe there’s that many. “You have got to be kidding me?” Pushing a few out of the way, I pick a board like the one I ride. I know it’s worth five thousand dollars alone. It’s garbage now. The board is warped, the core is swelled beyond repair, and the edge is peeled off. Seeing the varnish bubbled off the meticulous design, I feel a bit of my heart flake off. These are as important to me as my own arm. Boards have been my life for longer than I can remember, so seeing one—hundreds, in the same stage of decay hurts my soul. Garnering a level of cool I didn’t think I possessed, I lay the board down and turn back to Gruber. “How much of the other merchandise was wrecked?” Thinking about his answer before giving me more bad news, Gruber picks up a clip board. “There were nine boxes of Rip, six of Burton, three of NeverSummer, two SuP board covers, three snowboard covers stained, and the roof. I’m told we’re over 50k just to fix the roof. It’s 10k for the merch, and at least 85k for the boards, not including the signed ones.” “There were signed ones back here? Why the

fuck...No. You know what? I don’t care. It doesn’t matter. There’s damage of over a hundred thousand, and I haven’t even fixed the inside of the building.” Pacing the floor, walking back and forth between the damaged merchandise, Gruber stays quiet. Walking toward the exit, Gru says nothing as I pop the lock and step outside. “Not fucking great,” I say as the heavy fire door clunks behind me. I’m exhausted thinking of the time and money this will cost me. “I can’t handle one more fucking thing going wrong today.” The back of Powder Kings is in a tight, fenced-in area. With high walls on all sides, there’s no way to get in here without a fireman’s ladder. Looking up the side of the building, I see the ladder that gives us roof access stowed up high. Unlatching the lower half, I bring it down, wanting to see the damage myself. Hitting that first rung is heavy—like a weight on my shoulders I didn’t need—but by the time I reach the top, I feel like a mountain is covering every inch of me. Looking at the damage, it’s hard to imagine. Cali has been in a drought for years. And yeah, it’s been dry for a week, but the excessive rain we had for the last month almost lifted the whole roof. Gingerly walking around, I pad across the sides, staying away from the soft area where the leak was. “Fourteen thousand square feet of roof. This is

going to be a fucking fortune.” It’s not that I don’t have the cash for it, but it’s not what I had in mind when I bought this rundown shop. Gruber was barely afloat with his costs mounting, and no one with any business sense would back him. I’ve learned. I’ve had more financial education than most. I’m not Wall Street smart, but I’m good enough to make back a profit on a failing business. Bending down, I lift a roof tile that’s loose and curse loudly. I’m sure they can hear me inside, as well as the adjacent buildings, too. “Fucking money pit.” Yeah, that’s what I bought. Now I either suck it up and fix it, then turn a profit after insurance covers all the damage, or sell the sinking ship and run like hell. Problem is, I have a hard time giving up when there’s a chance I can see the potential and worth of something. There’s a profit to be made here. I know it. Backing down the stairs and coming to the bottom, Gru is waiting for me. “Saw it, did ya?” I nod, unhappy at the result. “Yeah. Not much worth saving. We’ll need a whole new roof. Get a contractor out and get it appraised. I’ll contact insurance.” “Sure, no problem.” Pulling out my phone, I say, “I’m off to do a few things for family. You need me, you call.” “Got it, Boss.”

Fuck..

Carli Fuck. Fuck. Fuck. Fuckity-fuck-fuck! Fucking pogo stick and a cock in your mouth! Shit. Riding up the elevator to Circe’s room with her now soggy sandwich, I cuss internally. What the ever-loving fuck? Really, Kato? Why come find me? I’ve been hiding from my family for years. Yeah, I told Circe I’d been in town

dealing with family stuff while she was getting ready to see her racer again, but it was a big fat fucking lie. I’ve been flying back on the red eye to work for the governor every couple days. He didn’t care as long as I made him look like a gem in the media. And Chris, the Governor of Indiana, doesn’t make it easy. It never helps that he has a proclivity for young men—not illegal, but young. Turning him into a polished family man was awkward, but doable. And telling Circe I was off dealing with family shit was easier than lying to her. I haven’t had sleep in weeks, other than some shut eye on the planes, but who’s counting a nap here or there on crosscountry flights? Seeing Kato? Now? That sucked. Hearing him tell me to shut up so harshly was awful. It actually shut me up for a second, which was a miracle in its own right. Fuckity-fuck-fuck! Damn, I’m cursing a lot, and this elevator ride seems to be taking hours. Counting down the floors as it ascends, I think of the last time I was in here with Jamieson Crown. Goddamn Crown. His roaming hands, his talented tongue—it was hot. With the rough touches and heavy breaths, I fell into his spell. I was so aroused when I left. Fuck, what I wouldn’t let him do to me. To actually find out what could

happen between Crown and I would be scrumptious. Even envisioning it now, I might hit the restroom just down from Circe’s closet sized room before I join her. “Jai is getting a big workout today, that’s for damn sure.” I knew I should have charged it last night. It’s only been a day since I was here, but I feel unsafe in this hospital now. I haven’t seen Kato in years, and as usual, everything about him screamed danger. It always had. Yep, way better to think of that momentary lapse in control than to think of Kato and his sudden appearance. With a ding from the elevator chiming my arrival, I straighten to my full height, standing a touch taller in my Louis’. If my family wants the princess, I’ll play the part. If they think I’ll just bow and accept my fate, though, they’re fucking wrong. But. He hung my sisters over the coals if I don’t do as told. Can I do that to Miori and Kano? The last time I saw them they were cute pre-teens. Now they’re young women. Either way, my sweet twin sisters don’t deserve the position any more than I do. Could they tackle it? No. It would break them. Can I roll with it and mold it to my whims? Do I want to? Fuck no. Stepping out of the elevator, I walk toward the private security that awaits outside. “Miss Katana,”

the first sentry says in greeting me. He’s a fresh recruit, and as green as they come. I’d break him. He’d be crying in the corner within twenty minutes. Sweet and adorable, the big lug is not my type. “Charlie,” I say, smiling at him. “Miss,” the second says. Gregor is ex-Marine, and he scares me a little. I might just pee a tiny bit if he ever talked to me harshly. Yes, he’s sexy in a rugged, damaged way, but the scars on his face gives me nightmares. The skin that puckers around his left eye and runs down his cheek has me wondering what happened. I might be forward and inquisitive, but I’d never ask that particular question of a veteran. Passing him with head nod, I continue on to Circe’s room. Walking in, I find China and Circe deep in conversation. Hurt feelings still? You betcha. As Circe’s gaze meets mine, that sweet, innocent grin courses across her face. My sweet, lovely friend as always. Turning, China attempts a smile, but it’s so fake, it’s like a newly minted forty-five-dollar bill. Pulling in my ‘poor me’ attitude and advancing on her with my ‘fuck you, I have bigger balls’ demeanor, my tightly contained resting bitch face is in attendance. No way will you get the better of me, Miss Crown. “China. Lovely, as always.” “Always a pleasure, Candi.” Are you fucking kidding me?

Injecting as much sugar as I can, I grit my teeth and correct her. “Carli. It’s Carli.” “Right.” She quirks her head sideways, as if she’s amiss with the correction. “Carli.” Ignoring the need to stab her sweet green eyes out, I advance to the bed and raise the bag. “Fab’s was busy, but I got you the triple cheese deluxe veggie pressed.” “With a pickle, right?” Shaking my head, I hand her the bag. “Of course. I know you.” I glare at young China Crown. “Better than most.” Stealing the bag at the speed of light, Circe has it opened and is shaking out the sandwich into her lap. Watching her do things one-handed is still hilarious, but I’m glad she’s doing better now. It’s like she had to see her racer before her body would allow itself to repair. Wyatt and her were in a horrific car wreck that took the life of his mother, and nearly cost him his own. The two of them have only been reunited for a few days, but it’s been crucial to them both. I wish it could have happened earlier. The way that China wanted the information held back from Circe, keeping them separated, was cruel. The nondisclosure paperwork that made me stay silent and not tell Circe what state Casper was in made it hard to keep it from her. Every time I visited, Circe would use

everything in her arsenal to worm answers from me. Answers I couldn’t give. China kept Circe in the dark. Did I agree? No. But with the legal means she took to keep it a secret, what choice did I have? With the money the Crowns’ have, I knew that legally she could crush me to smithereens, leaving me penniless. So yeah, I did as I was instructed and kept my best friend in the dark. Circe now knows the truth, the real truth. Not only did Wyatt tell her what happened in the car, but she knows that China is the one who kept her from knowing Wyatt’s condition. Biting into the sandwich, Circe mouths a few indescribable words. “Mmm. So, was nu tod?” Laughing, I taunt her. “Pardon? I couldn’t understand you around the cheese spilling from your open yap.” Finishing her bite and swallowing the morsel, she tries again. “What’s new today?” Other than another one of these Crowns twisting someone in knots? Nada. “Nothing. Why?” “Well, you have that ‘kiss my arse and bite it while you’re at it’ look.” “I wonder why,” I mutter, pulling up a chair. “You going to tell me what’s eating you up?” Eating another small bite while I attempt comfort in these wobbly death trap chairs, she trains her eyes on me. “Tell me, Car.” “Nothing new. Just family drama, boy

troubles, shopping regrets, and I lack in the required power to get through the rest of this week unscathed shit.” None of it’s a lie. Everything I say is true. “Carli,” she says in that tone that tells me she expects more of an explanation. I’m not in the mood for circle share time, though, especially with China evil Crown looking on. “Well I’m sure you’ll come through just fine, Carrie.” China grins cynically. “Thanks.” “No problem.” She rises off the bed. “Circe, we’ll finish that conversation later,” she says, turning for the door. “Always a pleasure, Cammi.” Okay, that’s it. My bitch switch has flipped. “China, I thought you were the smart one?” “What’s your problem?” Spinning on her last year Choo’s, moving in my space, I stand up. Toeto-toe, we’re almost the same height, and I’m wanting to flatten her out on her perfect ass. “I’m not sure I’m the one with the attitude issue, Mrs. Crown.” Seeing that it visibly stings her, I want to take it back. No, I don’t want to. “I’m not Mrs. anything, and you’d be good to remember that I can stop your visits to this hospital with a flick of my wrist.” Pushing closer to her, we’re nose to nose. “Oh? You didn’t get enough of blocking people

with Circe? Need more attention, Princess?” “Guys.” Circe tries to interject, but we’re both frazzled and spoiling for a fight. She can’t stop this. “Don’t think I didn’t have investigators look into your past, Ms. Katana. Trust me, I don’t have any issues with stopping you from coming here. My family name still holds sway with the UCLAs Board of Directors.” I poke her chest. “What family, Crown?” Realizing I’d probably gone one too far was around the same point the words spilled forth. There’s no taking them back, even if I could. Without a further word, biting back the retort, China nips her lip and steps back. Fuck, I’m an asshole. “Circe, I’ll let Casper know you have a visitor. When you want to move rooms, we’ll get the orderlies to do the transfer.” Watching China leave, I feel horrid. Even in my worst moments, I’ve never wanted someone else feeling like shit for something I said. As the door closes, I’m totally afraid to turn toward my friend. “Carli.” Her tone is menacing. “That was evil.” “Yeah, I know. Problem is, I can’t take it back.” “Maybe you should go.” Not that I don’t deserve that, but I’d hoped she’d understand I didn’t mean it.

“Cir—” “No. I think you should go, Car.” Looking over, I think it’s the most pissed I’ve ever seen her. Even when I kept things from her, she was never this mad. Fuck. “Yeah…okay.” Picking up my bag, I slowly walk across the room, trying to think of what I can say to fix this. There’s nothing. I open the door. “I’m sorry.” Then I close it behind me. Yeah. This day just went to hell in a handbasket. Why can’t shit go right?

Jamieson “Yeah, got it. Thanks, Mack.” Hanging up the call after talking to the contractor, I feel a bit better. He’s confident we’re not looking at much more than ten grand to fix the roof and re-tar the whole surface. Better than I’d hoped for, for sure. Now I can concentrate on the bigger problems I have to tackle. China namely, and her court case. My mandatory appearance with the lawyer to deal with the will and Dad’s positions for each of us has kept my mind reeling with why the lawyers want to meet

with me alone. Wyatt’s health and keeping him in the dark about all of it will be the real trick until I have the details. He’s only just woken up from the coma, and even yesterday, they had to sedate him to deal with his manic depression. China and Circe are handling him well enough, but he’s still a mess. “How the fuck am I going to keep him out of this shit?” I say aloud. Yeah, I’m muttering to myself again, but with good cause. I thought the worst part about coming to Cali was the heat and Marca a close second, but neither are even close to what I’m dealing with now. I’ve bitten off more than I can chew, and I’m being pulled in too many directions. Something’s going to crack soon, I know it. I feel it. Yesterday, after seeing Carli rubbing one out alone in her car, it had me wanting to do the same. Dealing with the shop had me in further knots. To boot, the women I’ve been knocking off stress with are nothing like her. So that meant I was in my hotel room, stroking my cock single-handedly. Well, not really single-handedly, but unassisted for sure. Did I think I’d never see Carli again? No. More like, I hoped I would, but I hated the idea of it as well. Her silky skin. That contained frame with curves in all the right places. Sass that I’d love to spank out of her. And that fucking hair? I’d love nothing more than to wrap it around my hand a few times and pull it like a fucking tether.

Bending her will, and her back, is enough to haunt me. Carli is dangerous and exotic, and she’s a mystery. Pulling up to the hospital today, I actively searched out her rental. Mainly because I’m intrigued by her, and I’d love nothing more than a confrontation. Her smart wit, her sassy attitude, and that ‘give no fucks’ air about her raises my competitive streak. I want her to give in, but I’d rather her fight me for it. Wandering to the visitor entrance, I’m hating the heat. Every step I take causes my soul to burn up a little bit more. This hellish environment makes my skin crawl and my body itch to hit the hills. Yeah, it’s summer in Colorado, but I could always take off to New Zealand. A few hours in the air would get me cleared out, and after the first trail was blazed I’d be breathing much better. But I can’t yet. I have to make sure Wyatt’s good, that Doll isn’t incarcerated, and that I get Wyatt firmly secured in Crown Industries before I’m forced into the position of president. That’s the very last fucking thing I need. “Whoa. Watch where you’re going, little lady.” Almost running headlong into a petite brunette, I wind my hands around her body, making sure she doesn’t fall. Last thing I need is a lawsuit for knocking someone unconscious in a public place. Pressing her hands tight into my chest, she

looks up at my face and smiles wide. “Tall glass of water! You really are a mountain, aren’t ya.” Not the first time I’ve heard that. “Sorry, head was elsewhere. My mistake,” I tell her, still holding her close. Her perfume is overly sweet, like she’s masking something. Pushing back and stepping away, I try not to seem affronted by it. “Join me for lunch, and we’ll call it even.” Before I respond, I hear, “He’s busy with me, sweetie.” Pushing herself in between me and the tiny brunette, Carli reaches for my hand before spinning to the other woman with a sweet smile. “Sorry I’m late, Dear.” She turns back to me and kisses my cheek. “I didn’t mean to take so long. I hope you weren’t bored.” Hoping the surprise isn’t written all over my face, I try to smile, accepting her unnecessary save. “Yeah, it’s good, love. I just ran into this lady and was about to apologize.” I turn to the brunette that’s now been pushed out of the way. “Sorry ’bout that.” Clearing her throat, she shoulders her bag with pure disappointment written all over her face. “No harm, no foul. Enjoy your date,” she says before walking off. Genuinely surprised, yet pleasantly thrilled, I lift Carli’s hand that’s attached to mine and kiss the

back of it. “Where are we going?” She pulls her hand back with a devious look. “Oh, I’m not going out with you, Crown. I just wanted to cock block you with that little piece of ass.” Turning to leave me, she pulls her hand away, and I decide to take control. Stepping quick, I grab her, bringing her close. “You’re eating with me. That’s final.” “Really, Crown? Is that so?” Narrowing her gaze, Carli tries to look evil. She’s about as evil as a caterpillar. “Yes, really, Katana.” I pull her body up against mine, taking in her heat and ire. It’s nice. “Now,” I say, breathing down on her, looking her in the eye as I dare her to look away. “Where would you like to go? Your choice, Katana, but I’m driving.” She laughs. “You wish you had control over who drives, Jamieson.” Not many can get away with calling me that, but I like it when she does. Bringing her even closer so that her chest is pressed tightly up against mine, she sucks in a little breath and I love it. It doesn’t take much to bother her; getting her to crack is where the challenge will be. “Tell ya what. I’ll drive us there, you eat, and then after, you can show me your skills.” “I have mad skills, Jamieson. I don’t think you

have what it takes to rival mine,” she scolds, grasping my cock tightly. Carli knows she’s playing with fire, but she’s more than content to see if she’ll win. Reaching down, I place my hand over hers and squeeze, egging her to hold it tighter. I growl at the feel of it. “Carli, show me your mad skills after I feed you.” “And what if I’m not hungry for food?” Twisting her hand around, she grasps lower, pushing on my frayed resolve. “What if my needs are more than what food can give me right now? Maybe I need something else.” Peeling her hand off is definitely not what I want to do right now, but doing this twice in as many days will not help me get her out of my head. Backing away, out of her reach, I say, “No more games.” I’m honestly surprised by my own reaction, but even more, I’m surprised to see the start of a pout crossing her features. “The games have only just begun, Crown. Buckle your seatbelt, it’s going to be a hard ride.” Laughing, I start toward the car. “Then show me your worst, Katana.”

Carli Great. Now I go looking to torture myself. Following Jamieson to his car, he’s already started it with the air conditioning cranked. Like I’d expect less. The man has probably been melting bit by bit in this hot weather. Steam rises off him in thick tendrils when he even considers being outside, I’m sure. But hot is what I wanted, right? I wanted him to be bothered and turned on. Otherwise, I shouldn’t have grabbed his dick. Pulling even my resolve to the edge of

insanity, I finally relented. Following him and agreeing to lunch, I’ll have a hard time concentrating on food, but only because I want to see him try to impress me. Am I being evil choosing the restaurant I have? Yeah, sure I am. But I guess my goal of the day is to piss off all the Crown family members. For sure, there’s no way Casper doesn’t know about the nasty things I said to China, so I doubt that I’ll be welcomed up to his room anytime soon. And now that Circe is being moved in with him—at least that’s how it sounded—then I bet the guards will have a kill order in place. Memo. Next time I visit, best to wear pants and a top that’s not uber loose. Last thing I need is to be naked while being escorted out on the shoulder of a guard. As we drive down from the hospital, I direct James toward this little hole-in-the-wall vegan joint. The food’s good, the atmosphere is somewhere between jammed and overcrowded, and there’s not an ounce of animal within. Well, present company excluded. This is gonna be fun for sure. I bet he’s never eaten vegan in his life. More than likely, Jamieson Crown has three large steaks for dinner with a side of chicken, two pounds of bacon, and three small pigeons for dessert. My vision of him pouring over a plate of wheatgrass and chickpeas is something I can’t wait to see.

On the drive over, I try to act aloof as I take in the man behind the wheel. He’s concentrating fully on the road, doesn’t venture a gaze at his cell once, and he’s kept his hands to himself. But everything about the man astounds me. His quietness, without the need to converse, screams of a different person altogether. Not what I’d expected. “Pull up next to that blue car,” I tell him as we’re fast approaching the shop. Doing as instructed, Jamieson pulls up. The spot I offered is going to be tight with his rental SUV, but I bet he can pull it off, just to prove to me that it can be done. Signaling, waiting for a car to pass, Jamieson folds the massive beast in as if he’s moving a Mini. Call me pleasantly surprised. As suspected, there’s at least ten people milling around outside the restaurant, and the sidewalk patio is full. If it looks like this down here, then there’s no way the rooftop isn’t over capacity. He pulls the keys from the ignition. “Where to next, boss?” he asks. “We’re here! Buck up, buddy.” Opening my door, I don’t give him a second to question the store. Wandering in, I bully my way to the counter, not looking to see if he followed behind. It doesn’t take long for the lady behind the counter to request my order, just as Jamieson tucks himself in behind me.

“What will you have?” she asks, taking in the gargantuan, gruff man. I bet she’s thinking the same thing I am. ‘What the fuck can we offer him? There’s no meat here, Mister.’ Without missing a beat, Jamieson says, “I’ll have the chickpea couscous, the tofu red apple salad as a side, and…a spring mountain smoothie, please.” With her mouth agape and a look of shock, she pauses for a moment. ‘What the fuck’ is written all over her face. I bet my jaw is bouncing off the floor, too. Jamieson isn’t amiss here. In fact, he looks right at home ordering froufrou drinks and strictly off the new age menu with nuts and berries. “What do you want, Carli?” Looking at me, there’s not an ounce of cynicism in his stare. Picking my jaw up off the floor, I say, “I’m having a quinoa, cranberry, and wheatberry salad.” My favorite thing on the menu. As the woman behind the counter stands stunned for a moment more, looking at the odd placement of someone so big, she slowly moves off to work on our lunches. “You didn’t want a drink?” he asks sweetly. I’m awestruck by Jamieson. Clearing the mud from my tongue, I speak, almost befuddled. “No. I’m, um…I’m good. I’ll just go grab a water from the system. I’ll be right back.” On the far wall, Kiss My Greens has set up a

fountain with varied fruits and veggies to accent your water. Picking up a glass, I add ice chips from the automated bucket, then select a few berries and a slice of cucumber. It’s on your honor that you don’t waste the fruit supplied, or make a meal of it instead of accentuating your fluids. Pouring in my water, watching the ice and plump raspberries float around, I’m immediately struck with a famishing thirst. Guzzling down the sweet nectar, I refill it before walking back to the order station. “Ready?” Jamieson asks, holding up two paper bags and his smoothie. “I thought we’d eat here.” Shaking his head, he grins. “Carli, there’s not enough room to breathe here. Come on. I gave you a choice of what to eat, but you can’t expect me to sardine into one of those chairs.” His smirk is something I’m slowly learning to like. “Come on,” he says, “I have the perfect place to eat.” I allow him this small victory in our war of wills “Fine, give me a sec.” Returning to the bar, I select a compostable cup, lid, and straw. Transferring my drink over, I grab a bit more water to fill it to the brim before sucking a bit down. Walking to the door, pushing our way back through the crowd, we pop back into his rental. “Hold on, Carli,” Jamieson advises. Opening the door for me, he juggles the bags and sets our drinks on the roof so that I can hop in.

“Thank you.” He gives me a sweet smile, and “You’re welcome.” Closing my door, he opens the back and sets the bags on the floor before hopping around to the driver's seat. “You’ll like it, I’m sure.” “I’m trusting you, Jamieson.” “I haven’t given you a reason not to, have I, Carli?” He’s serious, stoic, and he sounds almost worried. I need to lighten up the conversation. “Well, if you pull up at a strip club or a brothel and I rush in before you, don’t be surprised.” “Never a dull moment with you, Carli. Never.” “Did you expect less?” I quip off. Quieting, without answering my taunt, Jamieson pulls onto the road. With a quick jaunt down Santa Monica Boulevard, we park a few streets over from the famous pier. “Ready?” he asks with that quick smile, popping his seat belt. Looking around, surprised at his location, I don’t move at first. “Really? We’re eating at a tourist attraction? The pier?” “Well, I wouldn’t want to seem predictable, now would I? It’s no fun when you know what I’m about to do.” True. Fine. I guess I can play his game.

“Lead on then, Mr. Crown. Our lunch awaits.” .

Jamieson Our lunch wasn’t anything to write about in a blog. It wasn’t worth telling others that it was spectacular either, but I enjoyed it, mainly because of the company. Surprising Carli was well worth the overpriced greens and juice. She and the lady behind the counter were fully floored I wasn’t being a Neanderthal, throwing a fit for not having a hunk of meat on a plate, bleeding and requesting its last rites. But there was no way she was getting me to

sit in an overcrowded room full of new age hippies and vegans. Sweltering in the afternoon sun, I could’ve done without too, but seeing shock and awe coursing through those stupendous eyes? I’d pay thousands to see it again and again. To say I was slightly surprised was an understatement. Taking into consideration that I don’t enjoy this weather, this heat, or the crowds, Carli selected an extremely shaded eucalyptus tree off the beaten path. Watching her gingerly walk around pine cones, palm fronds, and beach garbage was entertaining to say the least. Her perfectly manicured fingernails, high-priced shoes, and out of place attire for the beach was an encumbrance walking on the soft grass, but she did it without so much as batting an eyelash. I can’t say I haven’t had a quiet meal in my lifetime, but the companionable silence was fantastic. Normally, whenever I take a woman out, they either yammer on about my snowboarding skills, how they’ve watched my every move, how they expect to be in my bed within minutes of meeting, or something of the sorts, their intentions are opaque. And though Carli’s are less transparent than most, I still see us ending up in bed. Or, at least, it’s wishful thinking. “So,” she says once we’ve tossed all the trash. “What’s it like in Vail, Colorado? I’ve never had

the pleasure.” “I don’t go into Vail much, other than to train on the trails. I mainly stay to Beaver Creek. My house is out there, and I can hit the runs without a lot of distractions.” “You really despise it here, don’t you?” she asks, without a hint of sarcasm. “Yeah, I guess I really do. Anything that has to do with sun and surf has been quickly vetoed as an activity. And staying close to air conditioned buildings is a necessity.” “I can understand that. You’re not a warm weather kind of guy, Jamieson. I don’t see you fitting in here.” Truer words have never been spoken. Hopefully, after the will reading, they’ll see the need for Wyatt and less for me. I’ll be able to get out of here and back to the cold. Crossing her legs neatly at the ankles, laying sideways on the soft grass, Carli seems so out of place. Her exotic features and her expensive taste is hard to envision in this environment, too. “Tell me. What’s a woman like you doing in LA, Carli? It can’t be just your friendship with my brother’s girlfriend.” Rising up on her elbow, straightening out her attire, Carli lifts quickly to stand. “Look at the time. I have to be going. The governor is expecting me. I have a flight soon, and I don’t have my car.” Pushing all conversations about her away, I take the

hint. Talking about Carli seems to be an uncomfortable subject so I let it go. I’m not the only person it seems with a cagey life. Standing, I brush my jeans down. “Got it,” I say. “Let’s get you back so you can get to that jet, lady.” I might push her some other time for information, but right now, I’ll let it slide. One step at a time with Carli seems to be the way of it.

Carli “Thanks for lunch. It was...entertaining.” Leaning against the rental, legs crossed at the ankles, arms across his chest, Jamieson looks sexy as hell. Dropping me back at my car without another word, I feel like an asshole for how I closed off when he asked something very innocent. It’s enough that I want to apologize, but I won’t. We were having a good time. It was amicable and sweet, and I had to ruin it by clamming up as he asked about me.

Chicken much, Carli? Yep. That’s me. Afraid to get close. Yes. Hell yes. Fearful of bringing someone else into my crazy and dangerous world of family drama? Of course. Hell, even my best and only friend will never know my past and current situation if I have a say in it. Now that Kato has come around, though, I have the feeling I’ll have to divulge info to Circe. That is, if I do as he says. “Anytime you want a dinner date, I’m more than happy to stand in.” His stance is open, and without an ounce of sarcasm. Wow, Crown can be sweet. Shrugging, I pull my keys out of my bag and smile. “Thanks, but I’ll only be around once in a while as Circe repairs.” He may not know the difference, but I’m being genuine. This day wasn’t forced. “It was nice, Crown. Maybe if I’m around and you’re free, I might take you up on that offer.” “Sure,” he says, not believing I’ll follow through. “We’ll play it by ear then, huh?” “Sounds good.” Unlocking my car and turning back to him with the door slightly open, I say, “It was nice seeing you eat twigs and berries. Tell me the truth, though, you—” “Never done it in my life. Surprising you was worth the still empty stomach.” Walking toward me, showering me with that enigmatic smile of his, Jamieson bends forward and stands close. The heat

of his body, the smoldering gaze that tells me he wants to strip me where I stand has me wanting him to ask. I’d fold myself into his arms in a heartbeat, work be damned. Then he takes a step back. “Have a good flight.” Smiling, he turns away, leaving me standing there with wet dreams. Hopping in my car, pulling into traffic and making my way back toward LAX and the longterm parking, I start the mental gymnastics. I’ve been away from the governor for a whole week, and I have a ton of catch up to do. I’ll need all the daytime I can get to make his persona perfect once more. I’m sure he’s done someone or something in a precarious way for his polished look to be tarnished. I work so hard on making him seem the consummate husband, man, and dutiful Governor of the State. He fucks up so often, I’m in constant repair mode, just to keep him out of the tabloids. With the ride through town being relatively quick, I make my way through Venice Beach and hit the freeway to the airport. Once there, I hand the valet my keys, grab my bag from the back seat and stand to the side, waiting for Jorge to hand me my ticket. “Please, be careful with it. I doubt you want to wax it again.” “Promise to park it in the interior this time, Miss.” Flicking apart the ticket, Jorge pockets the

other half. “Thank you, Jorge. I hate that I had to go all Zena on your boss.” And I did. That weasel ran for the comfort of the locked booth faster than I thought he could. Even in heels, I beat his ass to the door, reminding him that my car deserved more attention than a cheap Civic. He changed his tune as I dialed the owner of the Hilton. Handing him my phone, the overly furry man accepted a tongue lashing from his boss. Chico or Fucko, I can’t really remember his name as it didn’t matter, groveled quite well afterward. Placing me in a very expensive rental, they waxed my Jag from top to bottom. He understood I meant business when I said “Don’t park near the awning. If there’s bird shit on my car, you’ll be licking it up.” “Don’t fuck it up, Jorge.” “Yes, ma’am.” Hopping in the car, adjusting the seat for his short legs, I tap the window before he drives off. “Don’t change the station, Jorge.” His eyes bug out as he considers the consequences. Ten to one, he was about to, but he nods and rolls the window up, leaving me standing on the pavement as he drives away. Walking in, heading to security, I’m impressed. The usual long lines are almost tolerable. Last time I had to wait behind a man who lacked a hygiene routine. His eau de Wild Turkey and body sweat

was deplorable. Moving to the front, I quickly prep for the inspection. Might as well ask us to strip naked nowadays, what with the removal of shoes, belts, rings, watches, and hairpins. Soon they’ll have small change rooms for us each to pass through with knickers only. If only I wore them. Passing through quickly and hitting my departure gate in record time, I get to the seating area with a few minutes to spare. Checking my emails and texts again before heading through the last checkpoint, I find not much has changed. Replying to a few from the governor, a couple from the NRA reps that wanted a meeting with him tomorrow, and a couple from his daughter needing more money for college, all is as it should be in my life. “Kaori.” Again? I don’t bother turning. “Really? Don’t you take smoke breaks?” I’m exasperated by the audacity of Kato jumping me in the airport. “Kaori, you need to stop this foolishness.” His voice is even, and filled with malice. “Kill me or leave me alone. I’m not going back, and threatening my sisters won’t change it.” Moving toward the boarding kiosk, Kato follows on my heels. “It’s not an idle threat. Both of the girls are on

lockdown until the end of the week. You arriving is the only thing that will change that.” Are you fucking kidding me? Really? Now family has gone a step too far, holding my sisters’ hostage. None of this is their fault, and they were never intended for this position. I may not want it, but I don’t want to leave them to the fate of marrying old men who won’t love or appreciate them. “Kato, I have to go to work.” Handing the steward my boarding pass, I move forward. “Unless you’re going to Indianapolis, I suggest you head off, Jiji.” Grabbing me by the arm as I take my passport back, Kato looks ready to murder me on the spot for my flippant quip. I in essence called him an old man in a not so friendly term. He deserved it. He’s acting like my father, and that’s the last thing I would refer to him as with any term of endearment. He knows that my comparison was not meant in a nice way. “Excuse us,” he says with a tight smile to the steward at the kiosk. Tightly grinning with a hint of sarcasm, I say, “I’ll be right back,” before anything escalates. The look on his face echoes his fear for me, but he doesn’t pick up the phone in front of him. I’ll consider that a win. Leading me away and to the side, I yank my

arm from his grip. “Kato—” “No, Kaori, you don’t speak right now.” Steam rises off his words as he spits them succinctly in Japanese. “The position is and will always be yours, and Oyabun expects you will be there.” “I never asked for the position or the branding.” “Yet you have the wealth that keeps you in the lifestyle you desire. You don’t deny it.” Got me there. “Cut me off then. I don’t need the money that bad.” “Kaori, this was not your sisters’ fates, and they don’t belong there. You know this. Fulfill it, or there will be repercussions.” “And if I flat out refuse it? Will you make them?” Hanging his head slightly, fully exasperated with my denial of the fate that is mine, he announces, “He’s dying. There will be no choice.” Damn.

Carli Kato left me standing like a statue in the middle of the boarding area with the weight of my sisters’ lives in my hands. I was born into this just like them, but I’m firstborn. I know what it means. I know what it means to my life, and how everything I’ve avoided for years will become my new norm. This is not what I had in mind when I started this week. Now I have five days to decide, or leave them to this fate—or lack of fate—dangling by a knife’s edge.

“Miss? Is everything okay?” I’ve been hiding in the first-class bathroom of the plane for almost three hours. “I’m fine. I’ll be out shortly.” Well, as soon as I fix the runny mascara that’s streaming down my face. Sniffling slightly, I wipe my dangerous thoughts away, hoping I look at least presentable when I exit the tiny cupboard. Checking my reflection a few more times, the reminder of who I am peeks out under my thin, shoulder cuff shirt. Pulling it back reveals the meticulous design, and I stare. The perfection of it—the flaws of the ink, the intricate loops, lines, and colors—all signs of the position I’m being forced into. The dragon awakens. When I was young, I knew what the life entailed and what the world around me expected in regimented performance. The traditional requirements of it when I became of age caused me to run. The fight to rebel as I saw the dirtier side of it became a strong component as to why I left my family behind. My sisters. I left Kano and Miori to deal with this. There’s a tap on the door again. “Miss, we really need you to exit.” “Coming,” I say, unlocking the door. Stepping out, the stewardess’ shocked expression reflects my own. “That bad, huh?” Closing her mouth, she gives me a tight grin.

“It’s that bad a day?” “Couldn’t get better.” Why am I clearing my soul to an unknown woman? “How about a couple mini bottles on me?” She hands over two small bottles of whiskey, and unbeknownst to her, she’s brightened my day. “Thanks, but I’m okay. I’ve already had my fill of Whiskey today.” She takes them back and pockets them. “Can you get back to your seat then, please, Miss? We’re about to land.” Nodding, I make my way back to the seat, reveling in the reminder of Mr. Crown and his apt nickname. I really didn’t think the gruff, growly, grouchy Hercules knew how to be such a sweet person. I was amazed and thrilled to see how gentle a person he could be. Watching him eat like a rabbit, his manners were unexpectedly perfect, and there was not one qualm about eating something that wouldn’t fill a toddler. Plus, he didn’t make a move on me. He wanted to know me, to give him a piece of the one thing I can’t. No one knows me, and it’s in their best interests. I can’t tell them why. I can’t give them what they want, and I hate that I’m so hidden all the time. There are times I want to. Even the governor doesn’t know me. Fake ID, a great backstory that prompts no questions, and no interaction that would be questionable.

“We will be landing shortly. Please, upright all trays and seats. Thank you for flying with us today, and we wish you a lovely day in Indianapolis.” The announcement chimes, pulling me from my musings. Shaking the final touches of my ‘poor me’ attitude away, I attach my seatbelt and prepare for the decent, plastering on that ‘fuck you world’ mask I wear so well.

Jamieson Plastered on the front page of the paper, Cop A

Feel blasts my little sister with horrible publicity once more. She said she could handle the Crown and Anchor fundraiser. She said “No worries. I got this James.” No, she didn’t. The day before her arraignment and she’s on the front page of The Times with a cop’s slick hands riding up her leg. Fuck, Doll! Dialing one of her friends, she picks up on the second ring. “Well hello, gorgeous. How’s the day so far?” Harlow. Why did I think it was a good idea to call her? “Hi, Harlow. Don’t bullshit me. How is she?” As the line is quiet for a moment longer than I’d like, she clears her throat. “Not good. Last night was a shit show. CD broke. You’ve seen the paper I assume?” “Yeah. That about sums it up.” Reading the front page isn’t the worst of what China will have to deal with, but there’s not much I can do to fix something like this for her. I wish I could. I may not have been around a great deal as she grew up, but I always kept tabs on her and Wyatt through Cassidy and Ciccero. I wasn’t a total heartless creep. I wanted to keep them at a distance as I felt it was best for them, but they’re still my family and they’re important to me. “Tell me what happened, Har. I’m keeping Wyatt out of it, but I need to know what she’s up

against.” Pacing my hotel room, I’m in a state of half-dressed distress. Tossing on a shirt, preparing for the meeting I have in a bit, I listen to her drone on about the whole affair. From her outfit blunder, to the collapse on stage, to the crazy ‘cop a feel’ on the front page. I’m blown away by it all. I can’t believe the shit my little sister can find herself in. Fucking Doll. “Thanks, Har. Let me know what happens at court, okay?” “I thought you were coming?” Fuck yeah, I was. “Sorry, can’t. Wish I could, Har, but…” I don’t want to tell her I have to go see the lawyers at the same damn time. It’ll cause China further stress, and it doesn’t seem like she’s taking stress well. “Take care of her.” “She’s going to be pissed at you, Whiskey. You know your sister. She’s going to fucking lose it on you for not showing.” Don’t I know it. “Can’t avoid it.” Sighing into the phone, I know Harlow is biting her tongue. When Harlow’s being the sane one, you know shit is fucked. “Jamieson Crown, you’ll owe me an explanation for why I’m lying to your sister if she asks me.” Yeah, I know that, too. “Tell her I’ll call her later if she needs a rundown.”

“You owe me, gorgeous. Don’t think I’ll forget it. I’ll come calling, and you’ll pony up, Mister.” I know that, too. “Thanks, Harlow. Gotta go.” Hanging up, leaning on the bank of windows, I try my best to control the steam rising in my soul. Fuck, I hate this. I’m not sure why the lawyers even want to see me. Being cut out of the will years ago, it’s had no impact on me at all. None of it makes a difference in my life anyway. I’ll fly home, hit the snow and never look back. Maybe that’s part of the problem, I won’t look back. My brother and sister are fair weather riders, where I’m a snow and cold kind of guy. We’ll never see each other unless we make the effort to travel. Closing off my mind to the possible reasons as to why they want to see me, I head out to deal with the sharks—I mean, lawyers. Driving down to their office, my mind is a blur of thoughts. I’ve done everything I can to ignore the death that surrounds me. I’ve tried to be strong. I’ve tried to keep it together for them. Wyatt can’t deal with this shit, his mind is made up of fragile walls at best, and if last night is any indication, China’s hanging on by a thread, too. I hope her shit goes well today. I wish to hell I was there for her. Yeah, lawyers are assholes, that’s a given, but why subpoena me for the same time? It’s like they want us separated. Maybe that’s it. They want us apart, divided.

Damn, I’m gonna have to be on my toes today. ~~~~~~~~~ Traffic was evil. Snarling through every street, I reached the office with only twenty minutes to spare. Looking up at the glass and steel monstrosity, all I see is a temple to power. The gleaming brightness of it reminds me of how much I hate the heat. It bounces off the building, creating steaming tendrils of tangible California sunshine. Walking in, the strong air conditioning cools me instantly, thankfully. “Hello, Mr. Crown,” the young woman behind the front desks greets me. Her candy sweet smile beams as she sits up just a touch straighter. Jelly bean, fender bender girl. “Nice to see you again,” I tell her, then ask, “How’s the car?” She grins. “Dinged, but that’s what it’s for.” Rising from behind the desk, she motions for me to walk with her. “They’re waiting for you in the meeting room.” I don’t want to drag this out, I want it over fast, so I follow as directed, even as I rail against it internally. “My mom can’t meet with you today as she’s in court—” “With my sister. Yeah, I know. I’m supposed to be there, too.” Grimacing slightly, she continues on. “Sorry about that.” With a soft knock on the door ahead of

us, she turns the knob and moves to the side for me to enter first. “I’m sure they didn’t expect—” “Kimmy!” a sharp voice calls out from the interior of the room, effectively cutting her off. Watching her sweet smile disappear from the quick reprimand, Kimmy steps away, closing the door behind her without another word. Turning to address the boisterous gentleman at the end, I decide to wait. He doesn’t deserve it yet. I look around the room instead of giving him my attention. It’s exactly what I’d expect a lawyer’s meeting room to contain. Sparsely decorated, the room is devoid of character—no artwork, neutral walls, a long black and steel table, and chairs spaced perfectly along each side. Regimented and stark. Not very inviting at all. Clearing his throat, attempting to garner a reaction, he speaks. “Jamieson. Glad you could meet with us. I’m Carter Kelly, and this is Miss Mann.” Yeah, I want this over, but I’m not going to let them think I’m glad to do it. “Not much of a choice when you subpoena me. And I’m Mr. Crown to you. Now, tell me why I’m here.” With of wave of his hand, Mr. Kelly motions for me to join him and the young woman in attendance at the end. He sits at the head of the table, expressly meant to show power, as she sits on the right of him. His comb-over is stringy. His dark

red complexion shows horrible blood pressure, and his huffing breath gives away he doesn’t care for his health. She on the other hand is well kept, with curly hair that’s neat, a nice pant suit that is tailored but loose fitting, and a sweet demeanor. Rising, grinning tightly, she pulls out a chair a few down from her side. Instead of taking the offered chair, I walk down the opposite side to select one directly across. Pulling it out, sitting with a ‘fuck you’ smile, I look for a reaction from the pasty man. Sucking in a breath, he narrows his gaze. “Thank you again for coming down here. We have a few things to discuss, and I hope you don’t mind giving us a few moments of your time.” “I’d rather be with my sister, so let’s get on with it,” I say sharply. “As you suggest.” He flips open a file. “You know that the late Jaxon and Marca Crown had adjusted their wills a few years back. If you remember, you left abruptly during the meeting. As they were still in charge of their full affairs, Jaxon felt it was best to leave you alone and readdress the subject at a later date. The later date was unfortunately—” “Can you get on with it? I know what happened, I don’t need a history lesson. They’d pulled me from anything that had to do with Crown Industries just before my twenty-fifth birthday. I

don’t need you to run it down again.” He smirks. “True. But you missed a few crucial components of the documents, Mr. Crown.” He passes over a stapled stack of papers. “If you would look that over, you’ll see that not all is as you assumed. Please note the purple tab on page nineteen.” Picking up the sheets, I begin to read through them, and pause at a particular portion. Rereading it a few times, I’m taken aback. “What does this clause nine mean?” “I don’t think you’re a stupid man, Mr. Crown. It means exactly as you suspect.” Reading it again, I try grasping the full impact of the wording. In the event of the untimely death of both Mr. Jaxon Crown and Mrs. Marca Crown, if one Wyatt Jaxson Crown and one China Marie Crown are found unfit to run the affairs of Crown Industries, whether by mental or physical inability, one Jamieson Harris Crown will take full control of Crown Industries, the Crown properties, and the care of his remaining family at that time. “Wyatt is awake and—” “Yes, we’re quite aware that Wyatt is awake, but as for mental and physical capacity to perform duties, that is yet to be determined.” Sitting still, listening to this man tell me that a

clause can adjust my brother and sister’s lives seems ludicrous. I can’t even fathom the idea that these lawyers, who were expected to look after our parents’ affairs, are wanting to tear it all down. Whether by a malicious need or a gratification for them, I’m unsure. I’m pissed. No, I’m beyond pissed. Rising out of the chair, pushing it back against the wall, it crashes as I stare down at the wheezing man. “So you brought me here to tell me you’re looking at having my brother deemed incapable for the head position of Crown Industries?” His devious smile is dark and ominous. “Yes. In essence, that’s the jist of it. Your parents felt you would be the best person to run Crown when and if your siblings were unable to control such a business. Wyatt’s mental illness leaves him dangerously ineffective for the position, and your sister, with her precarious legal proceedings, leaves her to be a publicity nightmare. You may not have a care for the racing circuits or the motor world in general, but you are the best man for the job.” “And if I decline?” “Clause seventy-three. Blue tab.” He points to the stack in the middle of the table. “Effectively, it could leave you and your siblings in a hostile takeover situation from the board.” “Fuck!” Pushing my nails through my hair, I pace, dangerously close to a fist or two through a

wall. I do everything in my power to calm down. Not moving an inch, old man wheezer and the young woman say nothing, allowing me to deal alone with the realization that I’m about to fix or fuck our family even further than it already has been.

Carli “Really? Again?” Stepping into the apartment using the key I was given, I know I’ll find the governor in another precarious position. Placing my key on the side table at the door, I lay my bag on the wingback chair, knowing what I’m walking in on. Anyone coming in would by the moaning and carrying on.

“Could you at least close the blinds?” I yell out as I walk through. Seeing the blinds wide open, without even venturing a guess that he’s giving the area paparazzi a show, I hit the remote for the window coverings to close. Once that’s done, I round the corner and find it’s exactly as I assumed. Strapped to the dining room table, my boss’s bare ass is being pounded into by a man. I use that loosely, as I’m not sure the person with his cock slamming into Chris’s ass has attained his high school diploma yet. Furthermore, I doubt he has facial hair, but that’s why I’m paid the big bucks. I keep him out of the papers for marital discretions with less than legal aged men. Chris’s arms are extended out and down. He’s tied tightly by his hands out front, and his legs are at the closest table legs. Acting as if it’s not a bother to see this, I walk past the two men in the throes of passion and enter the kitchen. Opening the fridge, I pull out a bottle of water and twist the cap. Having my own personally hellish meltdown on the plane made me extremely parched. Guzzling down heavy helpings of the cool liquid, I watch with vague detachment. As his face rubs across the table, I anticipate chaffing. Makeup will fix that. I expect he’ll walk a bit funny for a few hours, so I’ll have him limp to explain a stubbed toe. For sure, his blood pressure will be sky-high. I guess I better grab his meds.

As I absently watch them cresting what I assume is the end of their activities, I try to expel Kato and his demands from my mind. Pulling out the drawer as the two of them caterwaul like Tomcats on a fence, I pop the cap on his blood pressure meds. Taking out two, I place them on the counter and grab two more bottles of water out of the fridge as I continue to view the festivities. Gazing at my watch, I’m impressed. The young man has stamina. I’ve been here for at least ten minutes, and by the way he was going at Chris, I’m pretty sure he was going strong at least ten minutes before that. Leaning on the counter and pulling out my phone, I scroll through emails and texts. There’s a couple from Circe, apologizing for the abrupt attitude when she shooed me out, but I’m ignoring those for the moment. Two are from the press team, one from the Mayor of Indianapolis wanting to give the Crown’s a key to the city, which is just bullshit and bravado, and two from my sister Miori. Those I’m expressly worried about, but ignoring wholeheartedly. Kato gave me a week! No one can decide life in a week. No one can pack up, rearrange and redesign anything in a week, especially when they don’t want to. He wants to hold my sisters’ lives in the balance, which is shit. Fuck! Now I’m thinking about them instead of something sexy and

dangerous. Closing the emails, I pick up the remote from the counter and turn on the television. Mounted on the wall behind the young man plowing into my boss, I wonder if it will distract him, but I’m interested in seeing if he can keep the tempo and pace he has with background noise. It’s eleven-thirty at night here, so the LA entertainment shows are just coming on. Mind drivel is always a good way to forget your dangerous mental anguish, I say. Staring over the shoulder of the man, or boy, the current affairs blast across the screen. “Don’t mind me,” I tell the sweaty blond. “You just keep up the pace, darlin’. Color me impressed.” Smiling, he gives me a wink. Picking up his pace, he pulls Chris’s body closer. Reaching around, he grasps his cock and pumps. I can just see in my peripheral as he strokes him in long, hard movements to edge their finish. Not a bad crescendo if you ask me, and I’m pretty versed in the long game. “You’re right, Caroline. This will certainly harm the Crown family.” With the audio distraction catching my attention, I tune in. “With China Crown’s arraignment today, we’ll keep you posted when we find out the results of her pending charges.”

Not meant with any edge of snark there, huh, Caroline? “Mark, I’m not sure how she’ll fare with this. It seems that since the death of King, this once strong family is just falling apart.” Showing a few unsightly pictures of China with some absolutely stunning uniformed man, she looks like she’s tanked. With everything going on, I would be too if I were her. This can’t be good. They were already dealing with Wyatt’s crash, their parents’ deaths, and now? Now they’ll be working through China’s bad publicity as well. Do I feel for them? Damn right I do. I even feel bad for China, and that’s saying something for the way she’s treated me. Itching to call Circe, my skin crawls as I avoid tapping the screen on my phone. We’d left things raw, and I’m avoiding the apologies we’ll both let loose. Skimming the smooth surface, warring back and forth, the insane volume of the two men humping in front of me has raised an octave. Shit. I forgot about the two of them fucking on the living room table. With a final, ‘ohh’ and ‘ahh,’ I quirk a brow, showing just how disenchanted I am with their crescendo. “Done? Finally.” “I could be talked into another round with you,” the blonde says in his sexual hangover haze. Pushing off of the counter, I lay my phone

down. “Honey, there are three reasons I’m out of your league. One, I don’t go trolling high school spares for truants. You should get back to PE class. I’m sure your teacher is wondering where you wandered off to.” I walk closer to the birthday suit of his. “Two, I like taint. You’re a bit clean looking for me. No tattoos, no scars and no…” Pausing, I look down at his loud and proud semi hard cock as he’s pulling off the used wrapping, “piercings.” “Let me guess number three. I just fucked your boss and you don’t take seconds?” His proud as a peacock snark revs my attempt to shut him down harder than I had originally planned. Going for the shock factor, I pull him close by the balls. Squeezing them tightly, I say, “I want a man. One who makes me scream. You, sweetie? I’d tear you to bits.” Leaving a peck on his cheek, I start off toward my room in the apartment, leaving my boss in my wake. “I’m going to wash up. Tell your toy it’s time to go home. The street lights are on.”

Jamieson Glaring at me hard, Carli shakes my shoulders. “Where were you? You said you’d be there, James! She needed you!” Sitting up in bed, the dream of Carli telling me off for not being there for my sister, seems so real. And there was China, wearing an orange jumpsuit, being walked away by the transvestite she’d had the pleasure of bunking with for a short time. His purple heels were clacking on the floor, and he was

wearing his own orange jumper which was pulled low and wrapped around his waist, with the T-shirt ripped and tucked up in a tankini. Raking my hands through my hair, I breathe out heavily to calm my overactive mind. “I’m such a fucking asshole.” With everything going on, I couldn’t even be there when she needed me the most. Neither could Wyatt, but he has an excuse. Did I tell him about my meeting? No. Will I? Yes, later. For now, we have bigger issues. It seems China’s under house arrest, and the police officer that arrested her will be staying at the house alongside her. Does it make me feel better or worse? Fuck. I’m truly not sure. Looking at the time, I see it’s four in the morning. There’ll be no going back to sleep after that. With the early sunrise peeking through the blinds, I lay back hard against the pillows. Noticing the light blankets tenting, I talk to my cock like a friend, not a member of my body. “Well, guess I’m not the only one awake early. Might as well start the day.” Throwing off the blanket, I flick the side table light on. The brightness of the room is shocking. Pulling back the wooden blind, I stare out at the ocean below, not caring that I’m naked. No one is up yet, and the windows are tinted. Even if they weren’t, if someone’s ballsy enough to take a

picture of me and my morning wood, they’re welcome to it. I’m not shy. Thinking on that dream isn’t calming me. That dream was so surreal. Having Carli remind me wasn’t necessary, but truthful. My subconscious is telling me that once more, I wasn’t there for a family member when they needed me. I’m such a fuck up for failing my sister. Hell, I’ve failed every family member I hold dear in some way. Smacking a hand against the glass, the sound reverberates through the room. What I need to do is man up and tell Wyatt why I wasn’t there for China yesterday, and I need to tell him what the lawyers have in mind. We need a plan to deal with this before they plan it for us, or before Crown Industries does. Then I’ll tell China. It will affect her, too, but less than it does Wyatt or myself it seems. And why was Carli mad at me in the dream? Why was she in my dream? Looking down at my stiff morning wood, I know who’s thinking of her still. That woman baffles me in her reactions to me, and there are so many things I think about doing with her. Then there’s that pink fucking vibrator. It causes me further sexual frustration as I think of her using it to give herself a release. Not that my own hand hasn’t received callouses from my own harsh workouts, but that woman is who seems to end up in every vision.

Since I saw her beating out her own orgasm in her car after our kiss, I can’t get it out of my mind. And what a lovely look that was. Ecstasy suits her. The color that rushed her cheeks. The goosebumps that rose on her skin. The shivers of her aftershocks. It was beautiful. I want it to be me making her that flushed all the time. The thought of someone else deep in her at any point pulls on a jealousy bone I don’t own, but it’s there for her. Looking down, my morning wood is still standing proud at the thought of sinking deep into her pussy. Grasping it, thinking of Carli sucking it deep, the muscles in my arm strains as I pull it hard. In my mind, her cheeks are sucked in, holding me tight as her teeth lightly scrape along the length. Her tonsils riding the top edge of the head, and the curve of her throat closing off her air for a moment of time sends shivers down my spine and into my gut. I’ve never thought of just one woman, ever. They’re disposable. They use me, so I use them. Tits for cock, tease and please. We all get what we want, and I’m okay with it. Picturing Carli in those fuck me heels, bent down in front of me, arms strapped behind her with her jet-black hair wrapped around my knuckles, I can literally feel her smile around my cock as I yank her hair tighter. Watching her back bow and her eyes dance with joy, I feel the end coming forth. My legs become weak as the

pressure builds in my balls, and I want the image to continue just a bit longer. What I want is her trussed up like a Christmas turkey as my cock pounds into her soft folds over and over. With that last vision burned into the back of my eyelids, I fall apart. When I open my eyes and the dream dissipates, my release coats the window. “Well shit.” Laughing to myself that I just did what countless others have in this room, I head off to gather a wet cloth. I may have made a mess, but I won’t make the cleaning lady deal with my spudge. I’m an asshole, not a fuck stick. After the remnants are gone, I toss the cloth in the towel bin and start the shower. How Carli has gotten this far under my skin is insane. Meeting her at my father’s funeral, then seeing her the other day, she’s ingrained in my thoughts. Yeah, I’ve had more than my share of one-nighters, but nothing that made an impression on me long-term. She does. Fuck it. I doubt I’ll see her again anyway. She was flying out to her job, so I bet she’ll be tied up for a while. The governor she works for seems like a handful, and that’s saying something coming from me. The man is a habitual cheater that she’s made out to be a dream boat. My PR is a nightmare, so his must be like trying to cover Al Capone’s true body count.

Carli is a master manipulator. As the water pummels out of the shower head at skin peeling speed, I clean off my grime and the dirty thoughts of her. What I have planned for today will take every ounce of control I own, and she can’t be on my mind. I’m about to tell my brother how our lives are about to get considerably more fucked up.

Carli Handling Chris is easy. Dealing with his boy toy having a hissy fit this morning, that was not what I

had in mind when I woke up. What did I want? I wanted a double espresso, one pump of sugar free vanilla and a touch of steamed lactose free milk. What do I get, though? “You don’t appreciate me!” “Of course I do…” “Kyle! My name is Kyle!” And that’s when I woke up. I dressed quicker than a runway model, tossed on mascara, pulled back my hair into a messy ponytail, then stomped out to the kitchen to Chris and his teenager in the midst of a mood swing. “You know I’m bad with names. That’s why I’m in politics. I don’t have to remember names.” “That’s my job, Kurt,” I say. Yeah, I changed his name. Fuck him for waking me up after my jet lag. “Kyle!” he snaps back. Waving off his request to call him by his right name, the espresso bliss maker calls my name louder than his attitude. “She doesn’t care about you, Kurt. And honestly, all I cared about was the sex. Your name didn’t matter.” And that’s when Ken punches Chris in the jaw. I set the machine to brew before having to deal with this shit. Big Dick Rick walks to the door with his jacket and shoes in hand. Ignoring the outburst, and most definitely ignoring my boss, I

concentrate on the consistent drip of my muchneeded liquid. With the slam of the door, Chris’s toy leaves in a huff. Hearing Chris walking toward me, I speak without turning. “Don’t talk to me yet, manwhore. I’m not ready for your shit yet.” “I didn’t speak,” he says, almost cynically. “Yeah?” Turning, I finally look at him. He’s wearing that smirk that makes me want to hit him, again. “Asshole, you spoke. I heard it.” I laugh inside, because he’s afraid to laugh at me out loud. “What did I say then?” “You said this, in a whiny tone I might add. “Carli, what did I do wrong? I sucked his cock, he beat my ass for hours and I gave him my soul. Why didn’t he love me?’” Laughing, I shake my head at his silly neediness. Chris wants love. He wants a man that can accept his whoring ways, and he wants his political status to stay perfectly intact. He wants to announce he’s a goalie net, not the stick delivering the pucks. He wants this with acceptance, without suicide by media after he dumps his wife on the street corner, penniless. She’s been a great beard, but I feel bad she doesn’t even have a man on the side to fulfill her needs. How she’s lived without sex for twelve years is beyond me. I wouldn’t have lasted twelve days. Money aside, his political stature might take him further than Governor of Indiana, but with the shit I

cover there’s no way he’s hitting the Oval Office. Would I gloat that I could take a closeted gay whore to the highest position in the free world? Fuck yeah, I would. But there’s no fucking hope of that ever happening. There’s a better chance of Aussie rule football becoming the American national sport. Reaching into the freezer, I pull out an ice pack—because we keep them in stock—and hand it to the idiot holding his jaw. “Here. Don’t be such a fuck up. At least write their name on your wrist or something.” He’ll never do it, so I’ll just keep ice readily available. Taking the offered pack, I hear Chris snapping it open. “You want a coffee?” I ask, feeling slightly sorry for him. “Yeah, you do those so well, Car. Thanks.” Pulling my drink off the machine, I set up one for Chris. “What’s the plan today?” he asks absently. “We have shaking babies and kissing monkeys at the zoo. Mark will pick us up in forty.” Huffing, he pulls at the tie and loosens his buttons. “Couldn’t think to tell me to wear a cheap shirt beforehand?” Turning with his drink, I scowl. “Why? You didn’t worry about waking the woman in charge of your affairs with moaning gorillas at three-thirty

this morning, or with diva hissy fits—” “Yeah, got it. We were loud.” “No,” I mock. “You were so quiet that Mrs. Mackle in penthouse five should be outside the door with a waving finger as we exit.” “Got it, Carli. So, next time—” “Muzzle the bitch.” Sipping my caffeine, I smirk into my cup. With me back and forth to see Circe, this is the usual banter between us in the wee hours after his sexual escapades. He doesn’t ask about mine because I won’t fucking tell him. You won’t find us sitting around, braiding each other’s pubes and talking about cock sizes. We have a clean, simple, and easy boss / employee relationship. I just happen to know more about his life than I feel I ever should, and that’s exactly why he pays me an exorbitant amount of money. Not to ignore that the governor pays for my flights back and forth to Cali, my apartment there, and my cars that are there and here...oh, and my clothing expenditures. Yeah, I’m spoiled. Kato was wrong. I haven’t touched family money in close to five years. It’s still dropped into an account every month, but I will never touch a penny of that blood money. And he wants to threaten me with the lives of my sisters? It’s true, I haven’t seen them in years, but they don’t want or deserve the position thrust upon them any more

than I want it. Will I accept it to save them? Sacrificing everything I’ve built to care for them? That’s the real question, I guess. “You ready to go, Car?” Chris asks, yanking me from musings about family. “Yeah, I’m good. What do you say we go get monkey shit and baby throw up on us?” “Sounds pleasant,” he quips. I give him a tight smile. “That’s my real charm, finding the direct happiness in disgusting endeavors.”

Jamieson “Stop being a pussy.” “Yeah, of course that’s what you’d say, James!” Wyatt is taking this just how I’d expected him to. Leaning against the wall in his hospital room, we’re talking about the lawyer bullshit that I dealt with yesterday. “What’d you expect me to say, Wyatt? I didn’t really get a choice in this. The way they have this shit stacked up, that fucking clause will leave it in the hands of the lawyers and board members if we

don’t do as it stipulates. How the hell would you respond?” I’m more pissed off that he thinks I want this. It’s being thrust upon me. Beside him in the adjacent bed, tucked in close is Circe. Touching his arm gently, stroking him in soothing movements, my little brother visibly pulls in breaths to bring down his temper. “Wyatt,” she says sweetly, “listen to what he’s saying and relax. I doubt you want Sali medicating you.” I’ve dealt with everything, taking it all in stride after my brother, Circe, and our mother were in that fatal wreck on the Intercoastal. I flew out here on a dime to be the head of the house. China’s meltdown, her arrest, Wyatt and his girlfriend Circe’s health, our Mother’s frozen body, Crown board bullshit, paparazzi, news crews, and losing out on the World’s team has happened as I became nursemaid. My life has been put on hold. Shit is totally fucked up. I’ll be the head of Crown goddamn Industries or we lose it all. “This wasn’t what I planned on either, Wyatt. We’ll figure it out, but—” “But nothing, James.” The strain of this pulls on his already tired psyche. Wyatt’s bipolar episodes have lessened with medication, but his frail situation still tears at him as he holds his volatile emotions in check. “Why did they do this? Is that why she wanted us all at the house for the reading of the will? Did she plan this all along?”

Raking his good hand through his overgrown platinum hair, I can see that this is tearing him to shreds. Marca, our mother, had always given the impression that this was a position he was to be given—unwillingly, I might add—but he’d worked himself up to the idea that he’d have to start dealing with it on a daily basis. To tear it away is harder when you know it could be taken away from the family whose name it was built on. “Look, I understand the shock of it all. Do you think I’m happy about this?” I’m seriously frustrated. Speaking up, Circe asks, “What if you accepted it?” As Wyatt is about to pipe up, she cuts him off. “What if you accepted the paperwork as it stands? Is there any stipulations about you redirecting control once it’s yours? Did the paperwork state anything about the three of you holding the position? After it’s completed as your parents wished, of course.” Well fuck. I never thought of that. “Pretty bright lady you have here, brother.” “Tell me about it, James. Siren’s a fucking whip.” Seeing the frustrated edge of my brother’s anger escape slowly, he smiles. It’s a carefree grin that showcases the way she’s softening his moods without drugs. I’m glad. He’s still a swinging pendulum, but it’s better than I’ve ever seen, and that’s saying something.

For the next hour, we look over the papers the lawyers left with me. Raking through them, combing every inch, looking for loopholes, we consider the options ahead of us. Not a lot of choices really, as they made it pretty airtight, but we have a plan. It’ll take all of us, but we should be good. There’s a few things we felt would be best left as is, but overall, it’s a good plan of attack. With Doll and her current predicament of house arrest, we’ll have to wait for her jailor to bring her down here to go over it. We’ll wait, though. It’ll be better to do it after we’ve found new lawyers. The idea of pulling her into something like this without an airtight plan isn’t fair. It’s not really something you do over the phone. Even I’m not stupid enough to think that her fit will be exponentially worse than Wyatt’s emotional outbursts. “I’m tired, man. Think we can wrap this up with Doll later?” Wyatt asks as his sleepy eyes flutter for control. “Yeah, I’m good. I have things to do. Get some rest.” I’ve paced for a bit, sat and stood against the wall as we devised a course of action. Even I’m tired. As I’m opening the door, Wyatt says, “Hey, Jamieson?” “Yeah?” “Do you think they’ll be proud of what we’re

doing?” I nod. “I truly think we’re doing the right thing, brother. Get some sleep. We’ll talk after we get new lawyers. This isn’t going to happen overnight.” “Okay. Thanks.” Hitting the hall, I mention to Sali, their nurse, that both of them are resting. Making my way to the elevators I press the button, and I’m reminded of the sexy woman in heels that held me hostage here not too long ago. I lied to Wyatt when I said I had things to do. I never do. For months I’ve escaped China, Wyatt, and everything else, hiding out at the hotel in my air-conditioned room. Bloody staff turn it down all the time, which quickly upon entering, I crank it way down. Buying and running Powder Kings has given me a slight distraction while I’ve been here, but even that hasn’t been enough. With the carriage arriving, I hop inside and click the button. The sound itself is a reminder of Carli’s sass. Counting down the floors, I arrive on the main level where the sun beams in, announcing how far away I want to be from here. I’m saddened by the weather. Others think the sunshine is a balm to their souls, but it makes me itchy. My skin crawls. Under my clothing, there’s a relief of it hiding in the shade, and gradually making my way to the doors, my breathing tightens. God, I hate it

here. And my parents thought that after all these years away I’d accept the responsibility of running a race team in the sun? What the fuck were they thinking? This is the least happy place on earth for me. And as the sun touches me, I feel threatened. Nope, not at all where I want to be. Someone make this fucking nightmare end.

Carli Wawawa, mahwa, wawah... The woman with the jungle print one piece

jumpsuit holding the microphone, sounds like a Peanut’s teacher. My ears are fucking bleeding. Chris has tried to look entertained by her droning conversation about the Capuchin monkeys, but I personally can’t feign interest. My resting bitch face is not so resting. This whole damn display is for her conservatory because they need funding dollars from the state. Give me a fucking break. The woman spent a fucking fortune on her clothing and it’s awful. Spend it on the monkeys instead, lady. I know the designer. I saw it at the spring show, and her wardrobe consultant needs to be fucking fired for dressing her like that. For her skin and hair color, it looks like something the monkey shit out. Two more hours of this and you’ll find me curled up in a corner, peeling peanuts for the fucking monkeys. This is the downside of my job— stupid moments, and appearances that I have zero bloody interest in. I’m actually hoping the monkey shits in her rat’s nest of a hairdo. Looking down at my cell, trying not to be caught doing it, I flick through Plenty of Fish, Twitter feeds, Instagram and Facebook. Not mine, though. I’m looking for pictures of Chris with his varied indiscretions. Kurt, Kyle, or rubber ducky— whatever the fuck his name was—ran out pretty pissed this morning. That screams nasty posts. So

far, nothing has shown up. Color me surprised. Stopping on a Twitter post, there’s a Crown notation. Doll under house arrest. #IdHandCuffHer Is Casper and Marca Crown alive? #CrumblingKingdom Why so long without seeing any of the family? #FurtherDeath Over and over, feed after feed, likes, retweets and reposts of concerns for the family stack up. Then one in particular catches my attention. It’s associated with the Crowns’, but not a name I know. Outcast Son tweeted, #NoSnow #ToFuckingHot Well, not hard to figure out who that is. Checking out his previous posts, there are boards, girls, trees covered with snow, and two short posts from a few days ago. I catch myself before I laugh out loud. #IAteVegan #BirdFood Our impromptu lunch was nothing exciting, but I enjoyed it more than I’ll admit. I think I might have even fallen in like with Jamieson. At the least, I don’t have such a scathing disregard for him. I might actually tolerate his presence if he happens to be around when I—if I—visit Circe again. Remembering how pissed she was that I ‘attacked’

China, I feel just a little bit interested in how she’s doing. I’d never wish anyone jail time or house arrest, but it must be awful when you’re unable to even visit your brother in the hospital without a chaperone. Hopefully, he’s at least sexy. Jamieson is. Fuck, I’m thinking about him again. Shit! I’ve even stopped flipping through posts about my boss and I’m solely flicking through Jamieson’s feed. Looking at each, the current feel of the posts are so different than the previous. The trees, snowcapped mountains, pictures of boards, girls lacking in clothing are gone. After Jax’s death, the feed changes to darker, stronger images of sadness, notations of heat, a crassness that seems heartfelt, and one that has me staring at it a few moments longer than I should. Sass and fire. Dark sarcasm. Give and take. I want more. #WhyADragonTattoo? Nudging my shoulder, Chris tries to gain my attention. “Anything I need to worry about from Mondo?” “Mondo?” I ask. “From last night?” I can’t believe he can even get a date. “It started with a K, Chris.” He rolls his eyes, giving me his ‘I’m bored’ look. I know what he’s expecting me to do. He

wants me to break us out of here. “You’ll owe me,” I mutter. Under his breath, he asks, “What will it cost?” “You don’t wanna know.” Fuck. Why do I do this for him? Opening the timer in my phone, I select a minute, then start the countdown. Closing the phone, I turn on the ringer and pocket it. Acting fully interested in the woman’s diatribe, I swear it feels like I’m watching a tennis match. Waiting for the blessed thing to go off is like watching a kettle boil. Hurry up and ring, dammit. Shocking me out of the near coma I fell into, I jump slightly, looking fully apologetic as the timer chimes. Pulling it out, I try to act like there’s someone on the other line. I talk into the edge of my shoulder like I’m trying to be quiet. “No. No. That can’t be happening. No, we’re at a very important meeting…” Pausing for dramatics, I raise my voice slightly. “No? Okay, I’ll tell the governor. Thank you.” Putting my phone in my purse, Chris turns toward me, trying to look worried. I reach over and whisper in his ear. “Two shopping sprees on your black card and a full week’s vacation in Cabo.” Giving me a sideways glance, he tries to look shocked. Not working, buddy. Agree, or this won’t be

the important call you were hoping for. “Well, I guess we’d better get there as soon as possible. That’s a very high cost, but we’ll make it work.” Rising from his chair, he turns to the imitation of a palm tree on stage. “I’m sorry, but we have to leave. If you could make an appointment with my assistant, Miss Katana, later in the week, she’ll get the remainder of the details from you.” That sneaky shit. Oh, no way is he cornering me into another meeting with this lady. Meet the Carli evil bus, Mister. Smiling sweetly, I chime in. “I’ve got you on this, Governor. I’m sure the disaster crisis team and I can work this out without you if you want to stay here and finish the presentation. I can go over the details of the town crisis costs when you’re freed up.” He narrows his eyes. I know he’s figured out that his escape costs just increased. “No, you’re right. I can work it out with the committee later. Mrs. Maa, I’m sure you have a written notation of the needs for your conservatory. Please forward it to my office and I’ll go over it, personally.” Nodding my head, I make my way out of the room. “We really should get going, sir,” I say, giving Chris his final exit opportunity. “Thank you. Yes, we really should go.” He squeezes out around the table past the other poor saps still stuck here and gives his apologies. I know

what he’s apologizing for, that they’re still there and he’s running like hell for the door. As we exit, we hit the hall of the conference room. Chris lightly smacks me on the arm. “Two times on my card?” Blowing out a breath, I laugh as we quickly walk away. “You got off easy, Mister. That last little bus run almost cost you two weeks in Cabo for a party barge full of my friends.” “You don’t have a barge full of friends. And Carli, you almost slung me into a new black card bracket last time.” “Please, I have friends. You don’t warrant introductions yet.” “Yet? And why would that be?” I shake my head. There are so many examples of why Chris is not a person you introduce to your friends and family. But I think on a mellow moment with him which is extremely rare. “The boa I found in my car.” Looking sideways, head quirked, and an expression that says, ‘I don’t remember that day,’ it takes him a moment to remember what Chris moment that represents. “Oh yeah! The blue boa I received from the Cher impersonator.” “And why was it in my car?” I ask, fully knowing the reason. He looks thoughtful for a moment, thinking up a lie. Stepping ahead of me and down the stairs, he

says, “It’s not important.” “And why did I need my car steam cleaned, Chris?” “Not important, Miss Katana,” he chirps off quickly, making his way to the exit lightning quick, as if his favorite butt plug is on sale. “You never did tell me.” I continue with my inquisition as we step into the parking garage. “Why did you offer to steam clean my Jag?” “No comment. Pleading the fifth.” Popping the lock on his car, he jumps in. “Chicks and dicks. Fuck me.” Hopping into the passenger’s seat, I groan. “I need to sell that car now, don’t I?” Laughing, he starts the car and pulls out of the parking lot. Fine. I’ll get the answer out of him some day, but today isn’t that day. Shaking my head, I resign myself to the idea that I won’t get relief for that particular erroneous moment in my employment. My phone buzzes in my bag, breaking me from my thoughts. Pulling it out, I stare at the screen, my heart falling to my stomach. Miori’s text is three words I’ve dreaded seeing. “Kaori. Kare wa shinimashita.” Our father is dead.

Carli Two flights. Three thousand miles. Five liters of espresso at least, and I’m hiding in the only place I feel safe. I’m back in California. I need my friend, even though I know it’s not smart. She’s never known the truth, but she’s the only person I have to talk to about this. Walking into the UCLA hospital, the weight of what’s happened feels colossal. My body is jacked

and my mind is wired. Avoiding Miori, Kano, and anyone else who texted me, I had Chris drop me at the apartment. When he asked what was going on, I answered as vaguely as I could. The more people that know the truth, the more their lives are at risk. My family is dangerous, but I need Circe. Yeah, she’s mad at me, and I’m still a little pissed myself, but the best part of our friendship is that we don’t stay mad at each other for long. Flying through the lobby to the elevators, I press that button for all it’s worth. If I press it anymore, the fucking thing will be an innie, not an outie. Hearing the ding, I watch as the doors peel apart. I’m so close to exploding with the knowledge of what I’ll unload on my friend that I don’t wait for the slow inhabitants inside to exit. It’s like a clown car emptying out. As the last few saunter out, I can’t help but wonder how many fucking people can actually fit in there? Starting toward the side, squeezing past a stout little man in a bright plaid shirt, my arm is gripped gently. “Whoa. What’s the rush, Katana?” Jamieson. I blow out a long breath. “I don’t have time to banter in an elevator,” I say, stepping inside. Pushing up beside me, his size causes the stragglers to exit quickly. “Why are you back already?” Sounding concerned, he reaches over my shoulder and smacks the button for the floor. “Did

you miss me?” I think he’s kidding, as his grin creeps dangerously toward his ears. “You’re hardly the center of my world, Crown.” Stepping closer to him, I look him in the eyes. “Contrary to popular belief, not everything revolves around you.” “And here I thought I was wearing you down, Katana.” His smile is almost charming—almost. “It takes more than a wink and a nudge to get a response from me.” Pushing against his chest, I attempt to move him away, but he doesn’t budge. “Jamieson,” I say in a warning tone. “Carli,” he grinds out, smirking. “Back up, please.” He rests his arms on the wall behind me, his broad chest surrounding me as he hits the emergency button. The sound of it squealing is awful, but his closeness is hard to ignore. My womanly bits have ideas of their own, screaming ‘yes, yes, yes,’ which is decidedly different than my head answering, ‘fuck this, remember what you’re here for.’ Against my better judgement, because I’m a glutton for punishment, I touch the thick scruff on his jaw. Jamieson’s eyes close as if relishing the feel from a dream. For a brief moment in time, I forget that I’m mixed up in family drama. I forget that I’ve placed Crown on the NTC—not that cock list —and that I’m here to tell my one and only friend

what’s going on. She needs to know why I have to go home and leave for good. I’m breathy, and my mind is clouded. “Jamieson, we can’t do this.” He kisses the top of my head. “And why is that, Carli?” “Five reasons.” Kissing me again, he grasps my ponytail and winds it around his hand. My body is loving the feeling. Betraying my mind’s decision that he’s trouble, I’m enjoying the feeling of him being in control. “Count them down. And each one better be good, Carli.” “Fine. One, you’re a whore. The harder it is to get the more you want it. I’m not making it easy, so you’re only pushing until you get me. Then it’s byebye, thanks for the orgasm and the grinding screams.” Pulling tightly on my hair, he tilts my head back. “I’m more than a one orgasm kind of guy. Bad reason one.” Jeesh! Hold it together, Carli. “Two. Your brother is dating my best friend, the closest I have to a sister here, so it’s technically incest in my book when you boink a sister’s fiance's brother.” Slipping his leg between my thighs, he parts my knees, brushing against my center as he kisses

the lobe of my ear. “Horrible. That wasn’t even an excuse worth mentioning.” Shit, I’m losing this battle. Melting into his touch, I clear my throat. “Three, four and five, you’re not my type. I like a guy…” I pause, feeling his cock rub my hip, “with a big cock, a strong opinion, and that has a heavy tendency to let me win.” Pulling the sleeve of my shirt low, he kisses the tattoo that runs across my shoulder, then he chuckles. “Carli Katana, you’re too much.” And that there sealed the deal. I quickly gather my composure. “Jamieson,” I say, pushing him back. Moving easily away, I pull the edge of my shirt back into place as he relents and steps away, giving me space. With a serious tone, I say, “I can’t give you the real me. It’s not fair to you that you don’t know the difference between the woman you see and the woman I am.” Confusion rages in his features. Trust me, buddy, I can’t clear up the situation without putting you in danger. Pressing the button on the console, I release the emergency signal. “We all have family obligations we don’t want to hold to. You, your brother, and your sister, you’re all dealing with taking the reins of Crown Industries in a shocking way.” I shrug. “I have to resign myself to my fate now, too.” He still looks confused, and shocked, and

before I give him the chance to speak, I place a finger to his soft lips to halt him. “Trust me. You don’t want to know this family. It could get you killed knowing too much about me.” Faster than I expected, the door dings open. Passing through without looking back, I move as fast as I can away from the poisonous danger to my libido. Jamieson fucking Crown will be the death of me.

Carli Knowing we’re both going to the same room doesn’t bode well for the dramatics I just unleashed. Stomping as fast as I can past the security guards that still protect the family, acknowledging the nurses station and knocking on the door, I wait for a response. Hearing him stop abruptly behind me, I don’t turn toward him. “Jamieson, let’s not and say we did.” “Carli,” he says softly, standing close.

“Please,” I beg. “I need to see Circe for a bit. Alone. Can you stay with your brother while we go for a walk?” “Of course, but why are you pushing me off? Maybe I could help?” I wish he could. Nothing I’m up against is going to go well. If I submit to it, losing the life I’ve built, I’ll save my sisters, but I’ll lose me. Not much of a choice, really. “Thanks, but I’m a one-man band. My cymbals can’t be rung by anyone other than me.” Hearing someone say to come in, I stalk inside without a further thought to the man behind me. The room that Circe and Wyatt now share is a lot different than her last. Not located far from where she was, but it’s considerably larger. Their two beds are pulled together, locked in place. The machines that kept Wyatt alive are gone, but I don’t think he’s anywhere close to leaving the hospital yet. His cheeks are still sallow, his frame is weak looking, and a motorcycle ride is nowhere in his near future. Looking at the two of them in their matching arm casts makes them a set. Walking in, Wyatt is snacking on Jell-O. Yep, not a food group, buddy. He smiles around a mouthful of the goo. “Carli, nice to see you again.” “You, too. How’s my girl?” I ask, knowing Circe won’t answer with her mouth full of the same concoction.

“She’s eating my supply, but she promised me something in return.” With a nudge to his chest, Circe smiles, sets down her now empty bowl on the table and laughs. “Stop whining. You smile, and Sali brings you extra. Even you can’t eat it all, Wyatt.” His endearing smile lights up the room. “So what brings you back, Whiskey?” “I found this lovely lady in the elevator when I was heading out for a coffee. You’d spin back, too.” Looking over my shoulder, looking all imposing, Jamieson gives me a soft smile. “How about you girls blow this popsicle stand and get some air? It’s high time we had guy time without your meddling.” And that’s the cue. “Come on, woman. They need a dick swinging moment. All that brotherly grunting and farting while we get sunshine.” The look on Circe’s face suggests she’s more than happy to leave for a bit of air. Stepping to the side of her bed, I grab up one of the two wheelchairs and push it to the side, locking the wheels. “Mind grabbing a sweater for me from the cupboard? The rest of the hospital is cold,” Circe asks. Nodding, I grab a sweater from the closet while Circe takes a seat on the edge of the bed. Slipping on her sweater, I help her into the

chair and we start for the door. “Take your time, girls. We boys will be just fine watching porn and eating pork rinds.” “I’m sure you’ll be itching to hear all the juicy stories about the sexy orderlies we abuse on the way through,” Circe deadpans. “Be good, Siren.” “Wyatt, there’s no use in attempting to be a good girl now.” As I pull the door open, I back out with Circe. The looks from both the Crown men speaks volumes. One I hope to turn down a notch or two.

Carli I’ve told Circe as much as I can, but only enough that I don’t feel like I’ve lied to my best friend. We’re sitting in the chapel, just around the corner from their room in the quiet space, alone. I ran down the story of my sisters, my father, the family, and the obligations I despise. I’m expecting scathing unhappiness, attitude full of epic ‘fuck yous.’ At least that she’s pissed I kept it to myself. But so far, nothing. She listened without a word—no criticism, and not an ounce of

disappointment crossed her face. And bit by bit, as I told her the story, I expected her to shout, or rail at the injustice of keeping her out of the loop. Then I half expected she’d rise out of her wheelchair and kick my ass. But again, she didn’t. And this is why I love my girl. No judgement. “So let me get this straight…” She pauses, straight-faced and serious. I stay quiet and wait on her to finish her thought, which seems to take forever. “We didn’t have to eat boxed pasta?” I giggle, surprised that’s all that matters to her. “That’s all you got out of my confession?” “It’s important to categorize your priorities, Car. Salads, ice cream, expensive beers. Not once did I have boxed garbage in that list, but it made it to the top ten way too often.” True. It did. “Well, I guess it goes like this. I always knew you had secrets and I had mine. You didn’t bug me for mine, and I’m not about to bug you for yours, even if I think you’ve yet to tell me the whole story.” Opening my mouth to defend myself, she cuts me off. “Look, Car, I know you’re not giving me all of it, and I know you well enough to know that you’re trying to keep me safe. So how about you tell me what’s going on with you and Whiskey instead?” “What?” “Please. Like I don’t see what’s going on.”

Laughing deep, she coughs as her still damaged body hitches to grab air. Once she composes herself, she continues. “Do you think I’m blind, woman?” “Nothing is going on. I saw him in the elevator on the way up.” She squints her eyes at me. “Right. And my racer means nothing to me.” “Circe—” “Look. Yeah, I get it, Carli. He’s sexy, broody, growly, grouchy, systemically the epitome of man candy from top to bottom. Fuck, Crown men only seem to come one way—addictive. Your life is a train wreck and it isn’t awesome, but just do me a favor and don’t lie to me about him. Even the way he looks at you, I’ve seen it before. I’ve been on the receiving end.” “You do get it, I guess.” “Then don’t lie to me. What’s going on?” Dog on a bone. She won’t relent until I give her something. Freaking best friend. I think about it before I answer her. Is something going on? Am I lying when I say nothing is? No, I’m not. “Nothing is happening with Jamieson and I. He’s everything you said, but we’re not a thing.” “Then why do you call him Jamieson?” She smirks knowingly. She’s got me. I waffle on the idea of him being something,

but being around us both all the time, I guess she sees what’s going on. “Yeah. He’s sexy, he’s dangerously gorgeous, and he makes me need Jai, but we’re not looking for love.” Grinning from ear to ear, Circe scratches the skin under her casted arm. “Carli, I want you happy. And if he makes you run for Jai, that’s impressive in my books.” She touches my arm, her face serious. “No one said love was in the works. It’s easy to see you two have a connection.” I don’t answer her because I don’t need to. She’s made her point. “So?” I ask. “It’s entirely up to you. You sound like family obligations are about to take you home, and I can’t join you there. If Jamieson is important, even a smidge, tell him you’ll be away. He’s a Crown. That stubborn bastard won’t let you out of this hospital without knowing why you’re a mess.” As I’m about to interject that I’m not, Circe holds up her hand, halting me. “Look, he’s gonna track you down somehow, trust me on that. Now, lover, I’m tired, and I want to curl up with my racer.” Rising off the bench, I push her toward the exit as I muse quietly about what she’s said. It’s funny. I pushed her into the arms of Wyatt. Bumbling around after the interview all that time ago, Circe was the woman using a pink pocket rocket to get off with. Now our conversations about

her and the wild racer’s sex life have actually had me trying out new things myself. I didn’t know men like him existed, other than in books. The way Jamieson crowds me, how he grips my hair like a harness, I see that they both seem to have the dark, dangerous sex down pat. I’m not afraid of him, I just don’t think he needs my baggage. He’s carrying enough for a month-long trip without my fucked up shit.

Jamieson “You talked to Doll?” Wyatt asks me. “Not in a few days. Not since the house arrest started. You?” It’s been a wild few days. China has been locked in the mansion. She has the full run of the house, Cassidy and Ciccero to cater to her every need, and a cop to keep her safe. At least he might have a better chance than most to keep her out of the media. It’s only been a few days, and I’m sure her antics will occur at some point. Disaster follows that girl. She’s got weeks of

incarceration to go, eight to be exact, and Risen Mason has his work cut out for him. “Yeah. I talked to her when Risen arrived. She’s a lucky fuckin’ kid. You or I would have been in Lompoc. Doll ends up under house arrest and doesn’t lose her license or the right to ride professionally.” Raising his casted arm, I know what he’s thinking. No races for Wyatt. We haven’t talked about it, but it’s pretty obvious that he’s done professionally. I’ve seen the X-rays, and if he can hold a throttle, it’ll be a miracle. We always avoid that particular mess, riding around it with conversations about China and the girls instead. And when I say girls, I mean just that. Circe is terrific to him, for him, and it’s made his recovery better than I could have imagined. Then there’s Carli. What can I say about her? There’s something about her that I can’t shake. Her sass and sarcasm ignites me. Every time she’s in my space, I want to strip her bare and punish every inch of her. I want to carry her caveman like, proving she’ll never find someone else that can make her melt like I do. Minutes later, as the girls wheel back in, Circe beams at seeing my brother. Helping her back to the bed, Carli chews on her lip. The wheels are spinning at a high rate in that mind of hers. Breaking the quiet, Circe says, “The room

doesn’t smell so bad. I guess you couldn’t get pork rinds on short notice?” “Potpourri. It’s amazing what you can do with flowery shit,” Wyatt chirps off, grinning. It’s nice to see that coming from my brother. Wyatt has always been ‘off.’ Circe turns him into a different guy altogether, and I’m so glad for that. I’m glad he’s happy. Turning my attention to Carli, I see her wheel Circe to the edge of the bed. Watching her help her friend in, I find something strangely stoic about her. She’s not said a word, not even taking a moment to play with Wyatt and his sarcasm. If there’s one thing I’ve noticed about Carli, she loves to banter. I try to get a rise out of her. “No orderlies to molest out there, Carli?” “No.” Wow. Worse than I imagined. She’s not even playing with me. Looking at Circe, she raises her eyebrow at me. Yeah, even I understand that look. ‘You need to talk,’ it says. “Carli, you hungry?” I ask. “I think these two need some rest.” Finishing tucking her friend back in, she pushes the wheelchair aside, trying to delay the inevitable, ignoring me. Grittier this time, I say, “Carli.” Snapping her head up at my tone, her eyes speak volumes. “Yeah, I could go for lunch.”

I turn to my brother. “I’ll check on you two in a bit. Do you want me to bring anything from the house?” I hadn’t planned on popping over there, but if he needs something I’ll grab it. Plus, it’s a good excuse to check in on Doll. “Nah. But I could do with pork rinds now that —” Smacking him on the shoulder, Circe cuts in. “You’re not eating that! I have to sleep in the same room, Wyatt Crown.” “Woman, you are not stopping me from eating bad food. This body has been a temple for far too long. I want to make it an amusement park for a bit.” “Oh, it’s an amusement park, Wyatt.” Giggling, Circe tries to hide her blush. Fuck me. “That’s my cue. Come on, Carli. I don’t think either of us need to see his rollercoaster.” Stepping to the door, holding it open, I patiently wait for Carli to say her goodbyes. For some reason, it seems final, and I intend to find out why.

Carli Giving Circe a quick hug, I almost cried. I’ll miss her so much. She’s been a part of my life when I needed her the most. I hate losing her. Then, when she whispered into my shoulder for me to tell him, it put things into perspective. Fucking friends! Where do I start? And why? What can I tell Jamieson to get him off my back so I can leave without drama? Fuck. Shit.

Man, I’m cursing a lot. Walking out of the room, leaving Circe and Wyatt, I said nothing more to Jamieson. Standing beside him at the lift, waiting for the elevator to open, I’ve thought about what to say. “Hey, I have to leave. You won’t see me again, probably ever, and I’m doing it to save my sisters the pain of marrying some haggard old men that will turn them into geisha concubines.” I wonder why it matters so much that I’m even considering telling him anything? A few chance meetings, and a driving need to ride his rollercoaster does not constitute a conversation about my past, present, or future. As the doors open and we enter. Once Wyatt and China’s lives are back to normal, he’ll be back at his hills, whoring out his cock to the masses, and I’ll be in Japan, far, far away. As the elevator ticks down floor by floor, slowly counting down the minutes like hours, gives me more time to war with myself. Shifting forward, hitting the button on the wall, the emergency siren rings out. Taking a deep breath before speaking, I blurt out, “Jamieson, I’m leaving.” Confused, his eyes narrow. “The governor needs you full-time now?” He thinks I mean Chris. “No, not Chris. I quit his employ. I was just coming to say goodbye to

Circe. I’m leaving the US.” “What’s going on, Carli? Tell me what’s happening. Maybe I can help you?” he growls out, staring at me like a petulant child. I know it’s out of care and worry, not because he’s pissed. “Yeah, not on this one, big boy.” “Carli, look—” Touching the edge of his face, I caress his chin. “This isn’t something you can do for me. Trust me, I’ve tried to avoid it for years. This isn’t a job for the burly snowboarder. Your Crown money can’t fix it. I have to do it. I hate it immensely. Actually, I despise it, but no one but me can do it. I have others that are depending on me. You know what it’s like when family calls, you drop it all.” God, I hate this. “Whiskey, you’ll be back on your hills in no time. You’ll forget about me in the time it takes to get off on a blowjob.” “I doubt that, Katana.” Turning so that we’re now face to face, he grasps my ponytail. He’s testing my resolve. I was going to leave, erasing the thoughts of him and his growly voice, his towering size...his everything from my mind, because nothing in Japan could possibly compare to Jamieson Crown. He’s going to make it absolutely impossible to compare anything to him. With barely a whisper, I look up into his sweet, chocolate eyes. “I have to go. I don’t have a choice.”

“You’re not telling me much, Carli, but it’s easy to see you’re afraid to go.” “Yes.” Am I ever. “Tell me what’s going on. Let me in.” With his body pressed against mine, his dark, sultry eyes pinned on my teary ones, I want to, but I can’t. “I’m afraid to do it alone. I’m afraid in general. But to involve you is unfair. Respect my decision, please.” He has enough going on with his own family. “Carli,” he says on a whisper. But before I let his heat and magnetism get to me, I back away. “I’m afraid, yeah. I can’t even fathom how much my life is going to change and…” Clawing at my shirt, I shout, “I hate every second of it, but my sisters can’t be left alone with this. It’s not fair to them either.” Hitting the emergency button hard, Jamieson turns back to me while the carriage descends, then kisses me softly on my forehead. “We’re going to get lunch, Carli. You’re going to tell me what’s going on and I’ll listen. I’m a good listener. Promise me you’ll give me the benefit of the doubt?” “You haven’t listened yet, Crown.” “You haven’t told me anything yet, Katana. Until you give in, I’ll keep it up.” Shit.

Carli “It’s my turn to choose where we eat,” Jamieson growls out as the doors open. “And if you want me to come with you, there’ll be more than dead animal available, Crown.” “Fine.” He smirks and wraps his arm around my shoulders, tucking me into his side. It’s warm, inviting, and I like it more than I should. “I’ll make sure there’s at least one vegetable.” Pulling out his phone, tapping away one handed,

we direct ourselves toward the carpark. “I’m gonna need to be drunk to get through this, Jamieson.” Laughing, his chest shifts against me. It’s nice. “I didn’t think you knew how to laugh.” “Not been much to laugh about, but you make me lighter than most.” Can’t disagree. There haven’t been many chances to laugh when there’s more funerals than fun. Approaching his SUV and unlocking the doors, I notice a lovely scrape across the back bumper. Hopping in the passenger’s seat and belting myself in, I’m itching to rib him for it. The need explodes from me. “Why don’t you race cars?” Starting the overheated car, he cranks the air conditioning. “What?” “Why don’t you race bikes or cars like the rest of the family?” Looking more confused, I decide to save him the brain embolism. “By the shape of your bumper, you have the rub’n is racin’ bug.” “Har, har, Carli. Not my driving skills. Someone else scarred the rental. I drive quite well.” He grips the shifter and smiles. I know his intention wasn’t to express his car skills, it’s about his other skills. Leaving the US. Leaving the US, I recite to myself. Shit. Leaving before I find out his skills will be a travesty. Honestly, how are little Japanese men supposed to even compare to a man like Jamieson

Crown? Yep. It’ll be hard, long, dangerous, and definitely worth the memory. Jamieson freakin’ Crown. Even saying it makes me want to memorize his features for future Jai escapades. Looking at him as he drives down the road to whatever place he’s chosen, I catalogue him. Today he’s wearing a short black T-shirt. The cuffs are slightly rolled up, showing off his colorful tattoos that flex as he steers, bending and blending like waves in the ocean. Small nicks dot the surface of his arm, his neck, and through his rough stubble in varying degrees of repair. Some are at least decades old, where others are as recent as months ago. The thicker beard and mustache around his mouth is trimmed, lush, and soft. I’ve wanted to feel that bush between my legs, to chafe the skin so I remember it indefinitely. Even thinking on it, goosebumps rise and my core squeezes. Rubbing my arm to remove the evidence of how he affects me, Jamieson asks sweetly, smiling that enigmatic grin. “Is the AC too low? Are you cold?” Ha-ha. “No, not at all. I had a chill is all. I’m fine, thanks.” Checking his phone as a text comes in, Jamieson smiles. I love how the corners of his mouth turn up when he grins. It’s scrumptious. “What?” I ask. “Did the restaurant have a fresh kill they’re gutting?”

“No. I just made sure you’ll have things to choose from. We’re good.” He’s sweet and gleeful, thinking he’s found something I’ll be happy with. How nice is it that he thought to call ahead? I could find myself... No, Carli. Shake it off. You can’t fall for Crown because he does sweet things like making sure there’s something for you to eat. Because he’s adorably gorgeous in a rough, rugged way. You can’t fall for Jamieson. There’s no way around it, you have to leave. He’s what would keep you here and your sisters in trouble. They don’t deserve awful, old, ugly Japanese trouble. I’m the only one who can save them that fate. No one else will worry about them, no one else will make sure they’re not turned into slaves. But… It can’t hurt to taste the goods and take that fantasy with me. Jai will need his name changed. I can’t very well continue to use my tool and twotime his name. That’s not a very nice thing to do to a man as sexy as Jai Courtney, or Jamieson Crown. Ugh! What am I even worrying about? It’s a vibrator! A shock pink vibrator I named after my favorite sex on a stick actor. With my mind wandering off, thinking of sex, cocks, and sinful men, I don’t notice that we’ve parked. “What are we doing here, Jamieson?” It’s

not a restaurant, it’s a Malibu beachfront hotel. An expensive beachfront hotel. “This is where I’ve been staying. I figured in a restaurant, you’d be surrounded by hundreds of people you may not want hearing your sordid tale. I thought a private place to eat would be better. Am I wrong?” Shit. There’s that sweet shit again. “No, you weren’t wrong. But to take me to your hotel, isn’t it a bit presumptuous? What if I don’t like you that way, Crown?” Showcasing that wide smile again, the ice I’ve caged my heart inside melts a bit. “Oh, I can change your mind, Katana. That’s a challenge I’d take all day long and every day of the week.” “Fuck,” I mutter to myself. “If you insist. But let me feed you first.”

Carli Jamieson’s room is a two-bedroom suite overlooking the Pacific. Stunning. If I were looking for a hotel room at the beach, this would be my Malibu retreat. Shutters on every window, and a Tommy Bahama / Pottery Barn interior that gives the space a feel of airy opulence. Every nuance has been taken into consideration when designing the space, and I half expect a butler or maid. Envisioning them popping around the corner, sweeping up sand as we move through, I wander

through the space. The rooms are well stated. The bathroom houses a beautiful claw foot tub, oversized double sinks, and a monster walk-in shower. “This is roughing it, I bet.” “No. This is extravagant, but I needed someplace I could move away from the…” As his voice trails off, I know what he means. Family can be crushing and constraining when you’ve been away from them and their constant needs for so long. It’s a lot to take in at once. “It’s a bit much.” He shrugs. Coming back into the room, seeing Jamieson just standing there, he sort of reminds of me of the new kid coming into class on the first day. He seems out of place. “Family can be a bit daunting, I get it.” Boy, do I get it. Picking up one of the little knickknacks on the table and turning the chromed bird around, I play with its mercury like surface. I’m reminded that I’m doing the exact same thing as him. I’m trying to avoid the cage I’m about to be tossed in. Gilded bird cage and me with clipped wings. He’s been away from the Crown influence, their fame, and their insanity. Yeah, he’s dealt with his own crazy life, but it’s different. I decide to start the conversation that I know is inevitable. “When I left Japan, I didn’t look back. I didn’t fit in there. I won’t fit in, even now.”

“You’re preachin’ to the choir,” Jamieson says, pulling up a seat. For the first time in my life, with his intense look, I swear that it’s real. Someone else gets what I’m about to deal with to some extent. Grabbing a seat across from him, I give Jamieson a bit of background. “I met Circe in school. We were hiding in England, both of us, but we didn’t know we were doing the same thing.” Shrugging, I place the brilliant bird back on the table beside me, then sit. “Anyway, we hit it off right away. Both of us in the same program, needing a place to stay, and didn’t want on the radar, so we found a cheap flat…that’s an apartment, by the way.” He quirks his eyebrow, but doesn’t say anything, so I continue. “So we worked dead-end jobs, ate junk food, learned piss all, then landed our jobs with the sports station. The rest is kind of racer history. Circe, Wyatt, your Dad, China, and your Mom.” I’m quiet for a moment, hoping he’ll accept that and leave it be, but I’m highly doubting it. Counting one, two, three, and four steamboats... “Carli,” he growls. “Yes, Jamieson?” “Come on, there’s more to it. What has you so twisted? Why do you need to go home if it’s the place you ran from? You were hiding out, so let me

take a wild guess, you were found?” “Yahtzee!” His not so pleased, stop fucking around face is back since I’m screwing around. When the food arrives, I bet I can avoid the convo, running out while his hands and mouth are jammed up with dripping animal fat. “I think the reason you’re not telling me is you’re worried you won’t leave.” “Jamieson, I can’t tell you. The less you know, the better for you.” I rise from the chair and walk to the shuttered French door. I don’t turn, training my gaze on the ocean below, but I know he’s out of the chair when I feel his warmth at my back. His frame encasing mine in a subtle way fits perfectly. Everything feels perfect, which is why it’s ending. I finally want something, and I’ll have to give it up. That’s my life in a nutshell. Carli zero, family, Yakuza and death, two points. Dipping his head, I feel his soft beard touch the skin of my shoulder long before his mouth. Tilting my head to the side, allowing him further access, Jamieson leaves wet kisses along the heated skin. I want to moan. I want to let him know how I feel about this, but I don’t. I relish it and enjoy the only moment I’ll have with him, knowing that without a doubt, after this, I’ll be on a plane and gone for good. Making his way down the dragon tattoo that

marks me, the Ryu, the mark of our clan, my skin purrs as his rough hair caresses it. I am the strength of the Dragon; my family is the hand of all, and I’m expected to lead. I’m destined for it, but I’m avoiding it like a gyno appointment. “Jamieson, we shouldn’t,” I say. Gently nipping the skin, he asks, “Why? Do you have a husband I don’t know about?” “That would be a negative, Ghost Rider.” Pulling the edge of my shirt lower, he slides it down my shoulder to my elbow. My skin tingles with every touch. “So, do you want a woman instead? Don’t I do it for you?” “Quite the opposite. You’re so my type, it’s painful.” “Then why am I undressing you, and you’re staring out the window? I saw more participation with your toy.” Growling into my skin, pulling the zipper at the back of my shirt, the cold air hits me immediately. “Jesus.” “No, Jamieson.” Fuck me. This is a bad idea for so many reasons. I place a hand on the windowpane as he wanders down my waist. “Jamieson,” I whisper. He chuckles in his manly way, his voice dropping an octave lower when he speaks. “Carli, would you like to be fucked against the glass for all to see?” As my shift of a shirt hits my hands, it

shimmies past my waist, soundlessly hitting the floor. Not wanting to say a word, I do all I can to hold myself up as his hands explore the hard edges of my hips. Searching out the clasp on my pants, his mouth never leaves my skin. “Carli? Against the glass, or where I decide?” “Can’t I have more than one option?” I try to act sassy, but my sarcasm is blocked by need. “Carli,” he warns, unzipping my pants. Jesus. Decisions, decisions. Looking out on the beach, to the inhabitants that can’t see us, and the gulls that swerve around, I squeak out, “You decide.” “Fabulous choice.” The teeth tick down on my pants before they, too, flutter to the floor. “Let me show you why this was a great idea. Open the door.” “Jamie—” He smacks my ass. “Carli, don’t back out now.” Mother of all glory! What is it with these Crowns and controlling? Unlocking the door, I push it open, where I stand facing the sea in a scarlet red bra and matching thong. Matching because they match the instep of my shoes. “We’re on the top floor, at the end, and there are no neighbors. You’re about to give me what I think about every time I make

myself come.” Turning to look at him, he raises his shirt above his head and tosses it to the floor, then starts to unbutton his jeans. Allowing them to pool at his feet, he flicks them to the side without a care for where they land. I don’t care either. Jamieson Crown is standing in the middle of his suite, naked, in all his God-given glory. “Carli.” I pull my eyes from his beautiful cock. Hell, I bet they’re as big as saucers. For sure, my mouth is open, gaping at the sight before me. There’s probably even a bit of drool. “Step outside.” As I stay still, stunned by the width and length of his prowess, I don’t talk, squeak, or move. Stepping up to me, he pushes his length against my body and growls. “Move to the porch.” Clearing my head enough to command my body, I snap myself out of my inspection, using his chest as a focus point. Lifting a foot to step out of my heels, he snaps through gritted teeth, “Leave those on.” I nearly come on the spot from his command. I’ve never been commanded, I’m always the leader. Doing as instructed, I move to the porch and hear Jamieson step out. Turning around, he closes the door. “Hands on the door, Carli.” I do as he says. Moving over to the heated glass, I place my palms against it and wait.

“Fuck!” He comes up behind me. “Is there anything I should know you won’t allow?” “Goats. I don’t do those, or any other animals of a different species.” Oh, it seems my faculties are still with me. Sarcasm in effect. He laughs. “Duly noted.” Smacking my ass again, the same cheek as before, I feel the sting of the one before. Not only is the sting still there, but the warmth in my core. The bliss, the anticipation, the glory of wondering what he’ll do next, all of it has me soaking my silk. “No moving your hands. No stopping unless I say. No end until you come. Do you understand?” “Fantastic,” I think to myself, or so I thought. Laughing, he repeats, “Fantastic.” Shit.

Jamieson I’m not sure who’s going to enjoy this more, who’s going to win, and who’s going to get off last, but I’m sure as fuck going to make it last—for hours. Kissing her neck, I run my hands down her body, undressing her slowly as I take in her soft, milky white skin that pebbles under my ministrations. I always expected we’d get here, but I never thought she’d be leaving before I’d had my fill. Have I been with women that I wanted to strap down and keep for days? Loads of them, yes. Have

I enjoyed them? Yes. But not one of them have made me excited at the idea of who they are and what they’re about. They were strangers, even if we’d been together multiple times. I never cared to hear or know about their lives. Carli? I’m enthralled as she speaks, I still am. I want to help her, and I sure as hell want to be with her. My needs were paramount and theirs didn’t matter. Right now, I want to make her... Happy. Growling out commands to her, my voice betrays me. My body betrays me. Words are not needed to show Carli how bad I want to pull her apart. With her standing still in barely there lace, facing the sea against the same window I stroked one out to as I thought of her, it seems surreal. Had I thought we’d be here? No. Why? Because I figured she’d never give me the time of day after Dad’s funeral. That day in Indy still haunts me. Why did I do it? I know. Years of fucking easy winter pussy, and I fell for it when one was laid out on the bed of my hotel in Indianapolis. The guys on the Olympic team thought they were doing me a favor sending me a girl to release tension with on the day of my Dad’s funeral. Under regular circumstances, I wouldn’t have disagreed. She would have been a distraction I’d have enjoyed repeatedly that night, but they had no idea I’d met Carli. Asking her to meet me at the hotel, giving her

permission to settle into my room while I was on the way there after dinner, I had no idea there was a woman strapped to the bed waiting for me. Carli walked in, found said Boarder Bimbo on the bed and walked right out. When I got to the room, I understood immediately. I knew why Carli was gone and why she had reservations about me. Thankfully, those reservations are minimized as she’s naked in my room. Midday in Malibu, the sun is something I usually can’t handle, but I don’t give a shit right now. Looking at Carli, taking in that intricate tattoo that courses over her shoulder blade and part of her back, I realize there’s a problem. “Take it off.” Pulling her hands back, she undoes the clasp on her bra. The thin material hits the concrete surface like a feather on the breeze. Slipping a finger into the band of her panties, about to inch them down, my heart skips a beat. “Fuck,” I mutter, running my hands through the scruff on my face. I want to watch this, taking in all of that fabulous skin. I want more. I want to participate. Tearing myself from where I was leaning, watching, I can’t handle only spectating. “Stop,” I growl. Her body is like dessert and I have the fork. Stepping close, I grip the edge of her panties and pull tight, causing it to rip, even as that tight little

ass of hers holds her thong’s center hostage. “You don’t need these,” I tell her. Grasping the other side, pulling tightly, the band releases her body. Now the only thing holding the material in place is the area I intend to explore. Bending low, kneeling on the rough rug at the door, I tug on the silk with my teeth. Pulling it slowly, inch by inch, it slips between those lovely cheeks. With every movement, Carli’s breathing changes tempo. Once it’s free, I drop the tattered red material on the floor, then turn back to the best ass I’ve ever seen. Kissing it reverently ten times, then ten times nipping it between my teeth, I can smell the sweetness of Carli’s arousal. She’s soaking wet with need and it’s my fault. I really like that. Smacking her cheek hard, she moans. Nothing sounds better than that. “Do that again.” As the red rises, I hit the other globe equally hard. Her small squeal this time drives my cock to a painful point. Seeing my handprint rising on that lily-white skin of hers, I revel in the beauty of it. It wasn’t some batteryoperated toy that hit all the right spots, it’s me pulling this from her. Dragging my hands up and down her legs, slowly, I caress every perfected inch. Reaching her apex, I feather soft touches along the crease of her ass. Every time I thumb the soft skin of her pussy,

she pants and sucks in air. Her body rocks back and forth as she tries to entice me to do more. To touch her more. She wants me to slick my fingers and make her fall apart. She wants the easy off that she has with her pocket cock. No way. Grasping her hips, I spin her around and see her perfectly shaved, neatly trimmed pussy. It calls to me. Wanting it more than I need to breathe, I can’t hold off any longer. Pushing her hips into the glass, the only thing holding her up will be me. “You’ll come hard, but it won’t be by a vibrator, Carli.” Holding her still, I dip my tongue into her sweet heat. She tastes just as I expected. Strawberries, pineapples, mangos, and every sweet fruit my mind can conjure up. “Holy Fuck!” she screams out. Fantastic. Humming my approval into her cunt, I begin to lick every surface, the succulent skin ripples and adjusts as I press on. Pushing her ass into the glass harder, then gripping it, I lift her up to hold her against the glass with me standing. Resting her legs on my shoulders, letting those heels rest behind me, I devour her. I feel like a starved sex addict. Pressing my fingers into her skin, pushing her to the edge, I taunt and tease the sensitive skin of her core. “Oh my God. Jamieson!” Knowing I’m doing exactly what will bring out her orgasm, I push further. Slicking my fingers

through her arousal, I insert the tips of two of my fingers into her tight pussy, stretching her out, and one at her ass. Crying out her pleasure, I push on, knowing she’s close as I’m licking, sucking, and nipping her. Carli screams, moans, and whines as I bring her closer and closer to the edge. Making my cock rock hard, raging its disappointment as it’s straining to be involved, I grasp it tightly, stroking it in time to the licks of punishment I’m giving her. Fuck, what a sight we’d be if someone walked in. Her ass plastered to the glass, my face buried deep in her cunt, as I jerk myself off. Stopping my hand, needing to sink my dick inside her, I lift my head, releasing the hold on her pussy. She groans and screams her disappointment. “I was so close!” “Greedy woman.” Lowering her legs so that her wet cunt is pushed against my naked chest, I walk across the porch with her in my arms. Setting Carli on her feet, I grit out, “If I keep that up, my cock won’t feel you, and he’s jealous.” She giggles. “I’ll enjoy it if you give it to me more than once, Jamieson. I promise.” “Turn around, woman. Face that audience,” I tell her, then curse. “Fuck.” “What?” she asks. “I didn’t grab a condom. I’ll be right back.” Grasping my hand, pulling me back towards

her, “Oh no you don’t. You’re not leaving me here like this. I’ll go grab Jai if you do.” What the fuck? “Who the hell is Jai?” “Jai is my pink vibrator. You met him once before, Crown.” Pushing her ass skyward, she leans along the concrete wall, touching herself, tempting my resolve. “I’m clean and on the pill. If you’re clean, too, we’re going into war, soldier.” Rubbing her sensitive bud, she says, “Unless you’d like to watch me get off on my own?” Fuck. “You have no idea how much I’d love that. But I want my dick so deep in you, that you can tell me which ball is bigger.” “Bring it on, Jamieson,” she taunts, humming out my name as she touches herself. I know her end is nearing. Even though I love watching this, I’m afraid that running off for a condom means I’ll miss the best parts. It took a million years to get her here, and I’m not fucking it up now. I’m clean, and if she is, we’re doing this. Stepping up to her, I shift her hands to the wall and hold them in place, rubbing my cock along her sex. “Hold on, love,” I warn, positioning my cock. Slipping past her entrance, slowly, I slide in, giving her body time to adjust. Her tightness almost has me coming undone within seconds. “Jesus!” I yell out. I’ve never ridden bareback, and the feeling is completely unexpected. She’s screaming her joy and I’m grunting. I

can’t believe how our bodies fit like a puzzle. Arching my hips forward, pulling back and continuing the beat, I hold Carli’s hands in my own. Craning her neck back, leaning on my chest, I dip toward her. Covering her mouth with mine, our tongues tangle, breathing for each other, hitching air as we try to gather sanity in this moment. The feel of her body is exquisite. She matches me move for move as we sweat in the midday sun. Pistoning into her, Carli’s body grips me tightly. I’ve never felt this. I’ve never had sex without coverage. Could I do it with anyone else? No. Pulling back slightly, I slam forward, bottoming out. “Jamieson!” Carli calls out, roaring toward her release. Letting her hands go, gripping her hips, I ride the tightening of her body as she falls apart, pushing her orgasm to the fore. Nothing compares. Carli squeals and mewls as her body rides the high, bringing me to my own end. As my balls stiffen to the point of pain, I let go. Releasing inside her soft body, she crests again at the same moment with another tight grip on my body as she screams through another orgasm. Riding that new wave of bliss, reaching around, Carli grips my ass to pull us closer, like it’s possible. With aftershocks hitting us, I don’t want to leave her body, and her nails tight in the globes of my ass almost make it impossible. Leaning to the

side, holding her tight to my body, I look down. In a mass of sweaty bodies, I flop us down into the nearest chaise lounge in our path. “I stand corrected,” she states as I tuck her in tight to my chest. “And that is on what, love?” Trailing her hand up and down my arm, she traces the tattoo lines. “I thought your little wooden toy couldn’t get the job done, if you remember.” I clear my throat. “Yeah. You thought it was little. Slightly surprised now, love?” “You’re a grower, and yes, I’m impressed.” “Well, what do you say to a shower before we eat then, Ms. Katana? I believe you still owe me a reason for running home.” “Just when I thought my womanly wiles would deter you.” No way. I’m not letting her off the hook. “Not happening, lady.” Pulling her in tight against my body again, I lift us off the chair. Yeah, I could pull out, but I’m loving her heat. I don’t want to let it go just yet.

Carli Oh. My. Fucking. God! To the God of all vibrators, I solemnly swear, Jai, you’re being shelved. But I’ll be charging it every few hours after I leave Jamieson’s arms. Circe was right. Fucking Crown’s. Sex on sticks. Sex with police batons. And he’s still hard! And still inside of me. I don’t want to let it end either, because when I leave his hotel room, the dream is over. Reality

awaits on the other side of the wood. Maybe I can stay here indefinitely? I’m sure I’ll find a way to smuggle my sisters out of Japan. Fuck, who am I kidding? There’s nothing I can do. Our fate is set, and Jamieson’s awesome cock can’t change that. Walking us in, still wrapped in each other’s embrace, I’m impressed with Jamieson’s ability to carry me on his cock. Bringing us to the monster walk-in shower, he finally sets me down. Groaning at the lack of fullness and the ultra cool air of the room, Jamieson starts the water. With his body behind me still, Jamieson tilts one of the shower heads toward him. Wetting his hair, running his hands through his beard, I watch, fascinated. He’s beautiful, and now that there’s more of him for my mind to catalogue for future reference, I love how it feels. Running my hands around his torso, gripping his ass, Jamieson laughs. “Carli,” he says into my hair, pushing his fingers through the length, tugging slightly. “You know, I hate people touching my hair.” “Uh-huh.” He kisses the top of my head again, wrapping the strands further into his grip. “And no one calls me Jamieson, Carli.” Turning my head, he uses my hair to steer me toward him. Looking into the depths of those eyes, I see so much more than I expected. I’m not the girl that

melts into a guy’s embrace, or swoons at every curve and smile, but Jamieson? The power in that dark gaze, the volume spoken without words, is heated and electric. Tipping up on my toes, wrapping my hand into his hair, I pull Jamieson down. His lips are soft, his beard—something I’ve never gone for before—is trimmed and well cared for. Tangling our tongues, I taste remnants of myself on him, but I don’t care. Breaking away, leaving sweet pecks on my cheek and forehead, I ask as mirth clouds his features. “What?” Looking down, he wiggles his eyebrows as he begins stroking my still sensitive sex. “I think you’re due for another ride, madam.” “Well, how can I argue that logic?” I laugh, enjoying that he’s ready to go again. Lifting me, he rests me against the wall before slowly lowering me. Inch by inch, filling me up, his cock stretches, warms, and causes tingles on every wall within me. My mind empties as his length shifts back and forth. He has to grind out the words through clenched teeth as his body pushes deep inside me. “Carli, if I could live inside you.” “It’d be hard for you to snowboard with me riding your cock all day.” “You’re Mother Theresa, Carli.” He pushes deeper. “How magnanimous of you.” “That’s me,” I say, panting words between

thrusts. “A true giver.” I’ve never moaned out a name, and growling out his name to me, sounds like a total porno star move, but man, does it feel right cooing it out. Wrapping his hand tighter in my hair, elongating my neck, Jamieson takes the advantage he’s created. Bending slightly, he takes a nipple into his mouth. I squeal at the sudden sucking, pulling, and pinching with his teeth as he enjoys each tight bud. My core reacts, my buds raise in excitement, and I relish every sensation it pulls from me. Jamieson is a master of my body, and I can’t find anything bad about how he sets every nerve alight. As his thrusts quicken again and his sucking strengthens, I crest closer to the end once more. Releasing my nipple fast, he raises his eyes to mine. “Hold on, lady.” Holding me tight against him, he drives into me like a man on a mission. A mission to see how much I can handle. Thankfully, my back isn’t positioned on the wall as Jamieson gives me all he has. With my orgasm rising fast, it breaks quicker than the last did. Screaming out, my body tightens around his cock, pushing him toward his own end. “Oh my God, Carli!” Jamieson howls as he pushes harder and harder, until his body is spent once more.

Jamieson Setting her back on her feet, making my way down, I kiss her forehead and nose until I reach those scrumptious lips. Grabbing up the loofa, I soap it up and brush it along her body. “That tickles,” she says as I trail it over her chest. “That’s a new one,” I tell her between kisses against her soft skin. “This is nice, but I haven’t given you near the same care, Mr. Crown.”

Pausing, I think on what she’s said. Carli doesn’t mean it in a way to sting, but it does. Placing the loofa on the side, I capture her mouth with mine, soaking up every ounce of sweetness she offers, then I take a step back. “When you’re done washing up, meet me in the living room.” I kiss her once more on the head. “I’ll get the food sent up.” Pulling down a towel, rubbing it against my skin before wrapping myself in it, I kick myself. Why do I still let something as little as saying Mister bother me as much as it does? Yeah, my dad is dead, and he was Mr. Crown. Maybe I don’t feel privileged enough to have the title. Years of being told I wasn’t good enough takes a toll on your psyche. Then there’s Carli. Have I ever thought this long and hard about a girl? About how I want her around to torture me constantly? No. But to a point, I do. She gives me a run for my money with her sass. Carli doesn’t let me get away with anything, and it frustrates me when she won’t do as I ask. She seems pretty determined to return to Japan, and I’m not sure I can stop her. Do I want her more than a quick fuck and go? Yes. I realized that weeks ago. Pulling out a new pair of pants and a T-shirt, I dress. Drying my hair and beard, I phone the front desk. On the second ring, there’s an answer.

“Shutters, how may I help you, Mr. Crown?” Again. “Could you send up the order I placed earlier, please?” “Of course, sir. We’ll have it up there shortly.” Before hanging up, I add, “And send up a few bottles of sparkling water as well.” “Yes. Of course. It will be there in ten minutes.” “Thank you.” Setting the portable phone back down, Carli walks out to the room, naked, with a towel wrapped around her head. “Well, isn’t that a sight for sore eyes.” Leaning on the door frame, hip out, Carli grins. “Someone tore my panties to shreds, and the rest of my clothes are out there.” “Yes. Yes I did. And I’d do it again.” Walking to the porch, I grab up her clothes and walk them over to her. “You know, there’s a housecoat in the bathroom for you to wear. You didn’t have to come out naked.” “Really?” She smirks. Yeah, she didn’t care. “I thought you’d like this better. Was I wrong, Jamieson?” “No, not at all. But you’ll need another shower.” Running a hand down her chest, trailing slowly across her stomach until I reach that neat looking pussy, I dip a finger within the folds. In an instant, Carli has me hard once more.

As she visibly shudders, I dip inside the warmth. “At this rate, all we’ll do is fuck, Carli.” “Maybe that’s my devious plan, Jamieson.” “Are you trying to distract me from asking you more about why you’re leaving?” With a knock on the door, I remove my hand. Trying to give me a pissed off look for leaving her wet again, I watch her walk off to the bathroom. Waiting until she’s out of view, I walk to the door. Licking my fingers, loving the taste of her, I groan and adjust my cock to the side. Laying my shirt over it—because the last thing some poor person needs is to be shocked by my raging hard-on—I make sure I’m presentable. With another knock on the door, I call out, “Yeah, one sec.” Popping the lock and opening up, I find a stout Asian man standing there with a table laden with food trays. “Good evening, Mr. Crown. Your food, sir.” Standing to the side, allowing him in, he wheels the cart to the table on the far side of the room. As he’s laying it out on the table, Carli strolls out, rubbing her hair in the towel. “You remembered to get me...” Pausing, she stares at the waiter. She’s as white as a ghost. “A salad.” Dropping the towel, it flutters to the ground as she watches him move through the room. Looking at her, then the man, it’s obvious to anyone she’s shocked. “Do you know each other?”

Blinking, she doesn’t say a word. She just stares and stares, as the man finishes what he came to do. As he turns to leave, his sinister smile is dark and cold. Looking at Carli, pushing the cart toward the door, he says something to her in Japanese. I have no idea what it means, but she obviously does, as she swiftly steps in his path. With a few choice and harshly said words, she soon relents and allows him to leave. Before closing the door, he bows low and says “Oyabun” before closing the door behind him. “Carli?” She doesn’t turn my way. She just stares at the door and the retreating man, visibly shaken and shuddering like a leaf. He really bothered her. And I mean to know why.

Carli Kato. How the fuck did he know to find me here? Why? He’s already made it quite clear that if I don’t go, my sisters will pay the price. I heard from Miori, and I know of father’s death. I didn’t need a reminder of why I’m leaving on the first flight to Osaka. All I wanted was time to say goodbye to Circe, giving her a smidge of a reason as to why I was running home, and a hurrah with the man that has caused me to rub one out too often lately.

Now that Jamieson has had an opportunity to see Kato, I can no longer avoid it. Thanks, Kato. There’s no way I’m getting out of this without some explanation now. He totally did it on purpose. He wanted to show me that there’s nowhere to hide. There’s nowhere I can be that he won’t get to me or the people I care about. And as I look over my shoulder, Jamieson is there, seemingly dumbfounded. I know better, though, he’s slick. Looking at the food on the table, I see that Jamieson did an amazing job. He ordered from the vegan place we visited the other day. With the same salads, and two bottles of water, Jamieson has recreated our lunch date. How sweet. “This looks great. Thanks, Jamieson,” I state, moving toward the table. “Carli, what’s going on?” Ignoring his request, thumbing a strawberry, I venture a look his way. Yeah, he’s itching for answers. “It’s a long story,” I say, and ain’t that the half of it. “How about you start somewhere, and after a bit, it’ll be a shorter story.” Understanding that there’s no way around it, I strip the proverbial band aid off. “You might want to sit and eat. This will take a bit of time.”

Stepping toward me, he pulls out a chair, motioning for me to sit. “And they say chivalry is dead,” I say, folding myself into the seat. Pushing it slightly forward, Jamieson grabs the chair beside me. “So start it off, Katana. Give me something.” “Oh, boy. You have no idea how big this is, Crown.” Pulling a fresh piece of loaf off the tray, I rip a section off and start. “And it’s not Katana. Well, it is legally, but in Japan it’s also Ryu. Kaori Ryu. Daughter of the Dragon. But my father died recently, and now I’m the Dragon Clan leader. Surprise!” Munching down on the bread, I try to occupy my mouth as I let Jamieson absorb the information. “Dragon Clan? I don’t understand. What’s that?” I reach over and pour us each a glass of water. “The Dragon Clan is the most powerful family in the Yakuza. That’s just a fancy name for mafia. My father was the leader, and he died a few days ago. Now, the task of leader, or Oyabun, has fallen to me. If I don’t go back, my twin sisters will be auctioned off. They will become geisha slaves, and second wives to old assholes.” “You’re fucking with me?” “God, don’t I wish.” Reaching for my glass, I sip to slow the flow of information. I doubt he can handle it all.

“So you’re a mafia princess? And you have to go home to stop your sisters from being turned into paperweights for some oversized Japanese blowhard? Have I got that right?” “In a nutshell. And I have to be on the next plane out or it’s done.” Forking up a mouthful of the raspberry quinoa, I chomp down as Jamieson takes in the news. “Can you come back? Or are you chained to some bureaucratic desk?” “I’m there, I’ll be leading, and there’s not much choice in it.” If I figure out a way to remove the restraint on my sisters, and a way for Kato to take the role, you can bet your ass I’ll find a way. The old man must know that I have him in my sights, but I’ll just have to figure out how to thrust him into the seat without me dying. I watch Jamieson as he stoically eats his food, drinks his drink, and processes it all. He’s quiet. Totally silent, which is kind of scary to say the least. “Any other questions?” Grinning wickedly, he tosses a chunk of bread around. “Who else knows?” “All of it? I haven’t told Circe much. I don’t think she can handle it.” Jokingly, he asks, “You figure I can handle myself if a sword wielding guy in pajamas comes after me?”

“If a guy in jammies comes at you with a sword, you’re on LaBrea. And no. No one will come after you wielding swords.” Deciding to have some fun with him, I add, “But a well-dressed man with a semiautomatic and a suit situation could occur. Just sayin’.” With a smarmy grin, like he thinks I’m fucking with him. His smile is visible through the scruffy beard as he munches on his lunch. For the next half hour, we talk at length. He asks questions, and I ask about the Crown situation. He asks to learn the more vulgar Japanese, and we end up on the floor in a heap of sweaty bodies once more before I leave. Unfortunately, the future calls. It’s kind of like a telemarketer that you’re avoiding, but you know it won’t go away until you deal with them properly.

Carli It’s been three weeks. Three long fucking weeks. The remnants of our time together still keep Jai on the charger. It’s not as often as I’d like, but there are reasons why. Duty. Honor. Puke! Family obligations and tradition. Tradition always comes first. My father’s funeral was full of pomp,

tradition, and potbellied old men sizing me up. They look at me, taking in whether I can do the job I’m destined for and wonder if I’m right for their balding, still at home mama’s boys. They inspect me like an insect under a microscope, deciding if my pedigree is sufficient enough for their simpleton sons. Let me tell ya, boys, I’m not. I have a brain. I have quick wit that floats over the heads of most, and I speak up for myself. I’m not a doll on the shelf to be inspected or fought over. The one thing since returning that I’ve been happy about is seeing my sisters. Miori and Kano have grown so big. The last time I saw them, Kano was wearing frumpy dresses, and Miori was interested in dolls. I’ll give them a bit of credit, they were thirteen. And yes, I missed them, but at that time, they were too entrenched in their lives to see my pain. I was constrained by duty, honor, and family obligations that were crushing me. I had to escape. A family friend helped me run when I turned sixteen, and I never looked back. I looked over my shoulder, but never back. The UK first, then the US. Overall, I’ve become a stronger person for it. “I get it, okay? You need me to desecrate a new building.” Waving off Kato, I stomp into my office. It’s on the top floor of one of—what I’m told—is the most secure places in Osaka. “I’ll go. Jeeze, get off my back.”

“Not desecrate, consecrate. Kaori, it’s been weeks. You need to obey customs. You can’t do this as you wish. This is—” Flailing my hands in the air, I interrupt Kato. “Tradition. Yeah, I get it, Jiji.” Slamming the door would be expected, but with a silent shove, Kato speaks volumes about his frustration. “Kaori, you are Oyabun. There’s no avoiding this. You have expectations to live up to.” I flop down on the white leather couch in my suite. “Right now, the only thing I have is an expectation of beer and a nap. And I highly doubt you’ll let me do that. Am I correct?” “That’s correct, Kaori.” Ugh, the injustice of this all! I thought I was the Oyabun. “I thought I had to take this job to save my sisters from awful marriages, but so far, what have I done? Kissed men with bad breath on the cheeks, and stood in ugly shoes.” I raise a foot to showcase said hideousness. “And I’ve listened to banter that means nothing. Nothing! No one accomplishes anything because you’re all worried about hurting the honor of the other clans. This is bullshit, Kato.” Sitting in the chair, he faces me. “It will get better. I promise.” “You’ve said that a few times. I’m getting tired of promises that don’t mean anything.” “Kaori, we have two more meetings this

afternoon. Is there anything I can get you?” I quirk my brow at him, but he looks the same as always— annoyed. “No beer and no nap. But is there anything else, Oyabun?” “Lunch would be good. How about you ask that secretary of mine to run out and grab it.” “Your jiei is not a secretary. Kenta is not supposed to leave your side, Kaori. He’s your bodyguard, and he’s here to protect you.” He shakes his head, clearly frustrated with me. Yes! I’m finally getting to him. My evil plan is working. “Fine. Kenta isn’t a secretary, but he knows where to get the best noodles in this part of town. Ask him to get it on your way out.” Kato knows I’ve just dismissed him. “As you wish, Kaori. No napping, though.” “Fine, I promise, no napping. Now boogie out to Kenta and get my noodles, Jiji.” He hates that I call him old man, but I love how it irks him. I’ll do it until he breaks, dammit! The door closes, leaving me alone. Blowing out a pent-up breath, I sink into the couch. This has been hard. Not the taking orders or giving them, but the restraint as I silence my tongue. Tradition and honor. Outside of this bubble, no one at home would understand how life is for me now. Man, I miss my old life. It’s only been three weeks, but...Argh! My sex life is nonexistent with another person,

mainly because of the reminders of Jamieson and his abilities, but more so because of the haggard bunch I’ve met can’t hold a candle to Crown. Not only that, but every waking moment has been taken up with something truly exasperating. Working for Chris, I had it all figured out. I could get him out of the worst situations. I was good at getting him into them, too. I’d pushed him into the hands of at least a few men that could entertain his cock for a few hours because I understood him. I was good at my job. Making myself look as good? Nope, not so good. I can’t seem to suck up my pride and bite my tongue. It’s made these weeks awful. All of it has soaked up time that I’d rather enjoy with my memories of that day in Jamieson’s hotel room. Have I used his cock and tongue abilities as a template? Hell yes! Every moment I’m sure there are no cameras, I yank out Jai. Kind of like now. Jumping up off the couch, I lock the door, turn the blinds and gather up my fully charged vibrator as I squeal with delight. “Time to work, Jai.” Flicking off my hideous non-designer heels, I unzip my linen pants. My pink toy ready to roll. Moaning at the instant it fills my wanton core, I hit the button. “Yes…” This is what I needed to get over the pompous arseholes today. His dark chocolate eyes, his strong jaw. His

even stronger tongue, with the rough beard that scrapes the sides of my lips as he works my clit like a starved man. I flick the raised bud. “Jesus, this is just what I needed,” I say to myself. Standing is harder to do, but the memory of him on my body as I wrapped my legs around his shoulders is more vivid this way. Resting a hand on the high back chair, I raise the speed on Jai. I melt. “More! More!” I moan, and in a way, I don’t care if anyone hears me. I was dragged back to Japan after finally having an experience that rivalled my pocket cock, so these old guys will just have to get used to me. Pinching the swollen nub, pumping my toy in and out, I increase the power to my favorite setting. It sends me to the heavens in seconds. “Oh my gosh!” I scream out. Maybe it’s a bit loud, but I don’t care. All I see is Jamieson holding me on that glass and caressing my greedy pussy. As I’m rocking back and forth, rushing toward the finish line, I hear a heavy bang on my door. The door that I thought was soundproof. With loud screams from the other side, further banging, and panicked male voices, the door splits open as I let out a joyous peal of happiness while my orgasm crests. “Yes! Yes! Yes!” I yell. With my bare ass on display, a hot pink vibrator hidden within me, and a

smile of ecstasy, I look over my shoulder. Standing in the doorway with not only shocked faces, but my noodles, are Kato and Kenta. Seeing more of their boss than they thought they’d ever get, I grab a napkin. Pulling my vibrator free on a groan, I lay it down and give them my attention. “Oh. You brought noodles.”

Jamieson My cum jets down the drain for the hundredth time since Carli boarded her plane. Hell, I’ve jerked off like a horny teenager. You’d swear I’d only just figured out what pleasure came from jerking off. And whose name is the one that I shout out each time? Carli fucking Katana. I’ve never mooned over a girl, woman, or MILF. Not a one. With the aftershocks rocking my body, I do my best to calm my breathing. I’ve tried to think about fucking other women, but every time I look

at them, there’s something missing. They’re too short, their hair isn’t long enough, their lips are too thin, they’re too sweet, too evil, and I can’t find the fine line between crass and sarcasm. There are faults in Carli, but her faults make her better than them in so many ways. For three weeks, she’s been gone. Three weeks of my hand, which is getting tired, and three weeks of wanting to fly over so I can fuck her harshly. If I had reason to be there, I would. Snowboarding in Japan is good, but I’m not competing right now with all this family drama, so I have no excuse to just ‘pop by’ for sugar. Thinking on family, we haven’t seen much of Doll. I’ve stayed away to let her deal with this on her own. I know Risen has her, and I always figured sink or swim. Our parents kept her water wings on too long, and now she’s finding out the hard way. And Wyatt? He’s doing better. He still doesn’t have the grip he wants in his hand, but it’ll take him time to get that strength back. I’ve seen that he’s dealing better than expected. His girlfriend, and Carli’s partner in crime, is a good thing for him. For me, not so much. Every time I walk through the door, I see her mind trying to ask questions long before she voices them. “Have you talked to Carli? Is she doing well? I think you should call her, Whiskey.” Yeah, I’m not calling her out of the blue like

some needy bitch. In saying that, I just jerked off to the thought of her. Soaping up the remnants of my release, I finish up and dress quickly. Wyatt’s expecting me to see him in a few hours to go over things with the new lawyer. Hopefully, he’s released soon so I can get back to Colorado. I haven’t been around family this much, and it’s overwhelming. They all want something from me. Wyatt, China, Dad, Marca, Petra. They’ve always needed something from me, and I can only give so much before the lines blur and I fade. Touching the scar on my hip, thinking of my sister Petra, it’s always the same reminder. Family dies. Family isn’t here forever. Family can only be so much to you before something fails. Maybe that’s why I’m putting so much effort into helping Wyatt and China; I’ve already failed my family too much.

Jamieson — The Past “What’s taking you so long? Come on. Don’t make me do it all alone, Maimy.” “Pet, wait up. The last thing we should be doing is...What are we doing again?” “Funny, har har, Maimy. We’re doing something sneaky. You know what sneaky is, right?” Traipsing across the room, tiptoeing like she’s some ninja, Petra makes more noise than an elephant. There’s no way no one heard us. Thanking our lucky stars that Dad’s off at a race,

because he hears everything, we walk across the living room. As Petra pops the door, her smile is so bright, the moonlight makes her look evil. Catching up to her, closing the door quietly, we sneak out of the house. Passing the pool, Petra runs far ahead. “Wait up, Pet! Why are you running?” “Maimy, it only happens this late at night. Come on.” Running across the yard, I move as quick as I can to catch her. She’s always been faster than me. Quickest feet in the eighth grade. She beat Jon last week, and he’s one of the fastest guys of our age. I’ve never seen a guy cry so hard. Cresting the ridge, stopping by the edge of the cliff, all I see is Petra’s outline. Stepping beside her, looking out at the ocean, I don’t see anything. “What are we doing out here, Petra?” She sits down on the edge of the grass. “I saw this once before, but only when it was this bright out. Just wait, Maimy.” I used to hate her nickname for me, but I’ve had it so long, I don’t even think about it anymore. My sister—my twin sister— means everything to me. Yeah, we have Wyatt, and Mom is pregnant, but Petra is mine. And if she says there’s something I need to see, well, I’ll damn well follow. She pats the grass beside her. “Sit, you dolt.” Fine. “What are we looking for, Pet?”

“Whales.” “Whales?” On the California coast, whales aren’t special. “I see them all the time. Why are we looking late at night? It’s almost three in the morning, Pet.” Sometimes she’s exasperating, but I do what she wants because she’s Petra. Her way of dragging me toward danger is innate. Even on a motorcycle, I’m not as fearless as her. I swear she’ll be Dad’s new race partner in no time. The girl can drive a car like nobody’s business. Well, it’s a Go Cart, but she drives it like she was born to. “Jamieson, you never see what I do, until I show you. So tonight, let me show you.” Tapping me on the leg, I relent. Anything, and I relent. We get in trouble, and I take the fall. She fails a math test, and I say it was because I kept her up late talking about snowboards. I take the brunt of everything, because she’s mine to protect. “Look. If you watch the waves just off the coast you’ll see them. No, you’ll hear them. Just listen, Maimy.” Her smile is wide, bright, and infectious, as usual. “Okay, Pet.” Rubbing her hands together, gleeful and full of excitement, she points. “See right there? That’s where they come around. Every full moon, every time. If it’s not raining, there are five of them. Just watch.”

Looking where she points, I don’t see a thing. Eventually, there’s sea spray. Whales. “Well shit.” “Told you.” She shoulder bumps me. “Now listen, you’ll hear them sing.” Staying quiet, listening intently, there’s nothing at first. “Petra,” I say, annoyed that we’re waiting to see whales at night, in the ocean, because she thinks they… Suddenly, there’s a low howl, moan, and crooning sound. Then another, and another, until there are a dozen whales singing to the moon. “Wow.” “Told you.” “Yeah, you—” Without warning, the ground around us gives way. I try to grab Petra any way I can, but I can’t get her. She’s falling too far, too fast. Grabbing purchase on a tree root, I’m able to hold myself up the cliff partway. Looking down, it’s so dark I can’t see her. “Petra!” I scream, but she doesn’t answer me. I call her name over and over again until my voice is hoarse. I need to get up the wrecked sea wall to reach the top. Using the root to climb, I start to make my way up. I don’t have on shoes, and my feet cut on the jagged rocks. Slipping every so often, I finally reach the grass at the top and look down, screaming, hoping for an answer. “Petra!” Running across the ground as fast as I can,

making it to the house, I tear through the house, looking to wake Cicerro, our caregiver. By the time he appears, the tears are streaming down my face. My body is shaking from the fear of what Dad will do to us, and I’m hoping that Petra is okay. .

Jamieson — The Past It took hundreds of rescue workers and the Coast Guard to reach Petra. It was hours I didn’t think we had. I was so grateful when I saw them take her away, alive. I’d sat on the back steps watching it all unfold, cursing that I didn’t talk her out of seeing the whales. Cicerro had me cleaned up, put on a change of clothes, and made me stay away so they could do their jobs. After seeing the airlift, I knew she was safe.

They don’t airlift the dead. We’ve now been in the hospital waiting on news for close to three hours. Dad flew in from his Texas race, and I have never seen him in such a state. Wyatt stayed at the house with the staff, and Mom has paced incessantly. She yelled a few times at the staff, trying to get news. She yelled at Cicerro, at Dad, and at the other people waiting in the lounge. Never once at me. She won’t even look at me. “Mom?” I say, trying to get her attention. I want to say I’m sorry. I want to tell her what happened, but she won’t talk to me at all. “Mom, I’m so sorry. Petra wanted to listen to the whales singing. She said—” “Jamieson. I…I can’t talk to you,” she says, without even looking my way. “Cicerro, take him home.” “But I want to be here when Pet wakes up.” Wiping a lone tear from her face, Mom doesn’t turn my way. “Take my son home, Cicerro. I can’t deal with him as I worry about my baby girl.” I’ve always been her little boy. She’s always told me how there’s nothing I could do to make her not love me. How I’m the sweetest thing she’s ever made. But right now, I feel like a stranger. Unwelcome. Finally speaking up, Dad says, “Cicerro. Can

you...” Before he finishes, a doctor walks out, interrupting him. “Mr. and Mrs. Crown?” “Yes,” they say in unison. “I’m Dr. Meacham. Your daughter’s outlook is grim. She punctured her kidney’s, her spleen, and broke her hip. We were able to slow the bleeds to other areas, but without a donor match, I’m afraid we can’t do much more.” Sitting down hard, Mom looks awfully pale. Dad is better, but even he isn’t looking good. “Were there any on the transplant list?” “Unfortunately, no. And she won’t live long if we don’t have something soon. She needs a perfect match to be viable.” I’ve listened to everything being said. Rising out of my chair, I step in close. “She’s my twin. Can I help?” The doctor, Mom, Dad, and Cicerro, all turn my way. It’s like I told them I’m the son of the devil. Or the son of an angel, if I can pull it off. “Son, it’s too risky. I can’t let you.” “Dad, if I can help Petra I will. Please.” “It’s risky, Mr. Crown.” Wrapping me tightly in a hug, one that only Dad can give, I hear Mom as she speaks to the doctor further. She’s upset about Petra, not about the complications with me. It bothers me, but I know it’s because she’s so worried.

“I love you, Jamieson,” Dad says, still holding me. He never calls me by my name. Nicknames only. It’s his way of showing he loves us. “You’re a great brother, Whiskey. Don’t blame yourself. It wasn’t your fault.” “Dad, if I don’t she’ll die. I can’t live without my sister. It’s just as much my fault as hers that we were out there tonight. I should have stopped her.” “Whiskey, son. It was just an accident.” He hugs me even tighter. I love the crush on my body as he brings me in super close. Breathing into my hair, I feel his words hitch. “Go have a seat. We need to talk to the doctor for a bit.” Taking a seat, I listen as they go over the risks, the complications, and the procedure. Eventually, I’m checked in by a desk nurse, handed a robe, and have a hospital band placed on my wrist. Just before I’m wheeled away, the doctor approaches me. “Son, this is going to hurt, and you’ll have a few weeks of recovery. But you’re very special to do this for your sister.” I shake my head. “Nah. I’m not special. Petra is. I’m just lucky to be her twin brother.” Accepting that, he nods and walks off, leaving me with my family. Saying goodbye to my parents and Cicerro, I’m led off to the inner area of the hospital where I’ll have a kidney removed. I’d remove my heart if it would save my sister. I’d do anything for Petra.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Waking up in the recovery room, the bright lights are blinding. My head is groggy, my eyes feel scratchy, and my body is numb. Clearing my throat gains the attention of a nurse. “Nice to see you awake, Jamieson. How’re you feeling?” “Tired. Really tired.” Smiling, and grabbing up a glass of water off the side table, she says, “You’ll be for a while. Here, drink some water, it’ll help.” Taking the straw she pushes towards me, I suck back the water like I’ve been living in the salt flats for days. When I’m done, I push the straw away and ask her the only thing of importance. “How’s Petra? Where’s my sister?” That smile disappears before she says the words I never want to hear again. “I’m sorry she died before you could help her. Your sister is gone.” ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ It’s been weeks. It could be years and nothing would feel better. Looking out at the sea, the cliff and the spot where it happened, nothing feels right. I’m not right. The ocean doesn’t hold any charm after it took my sister, and the whales? If

they sing again, it won’t be something I find magical. Dad was here for her funeral, and luckily for the birth of my new baby sister, China, before he headed off for another race. She’s beautiful. Dark hair like my dad and soft features like Mom. She’ll be a danger to all men. To me, she’s never going to replace Petra. I have the scar to prove she was real, and touching it every day reminds me how amazing and awesome she was, and reminding me of how I failed to save her. Being her brother I had one job, and mother reminds me that every day. I never had the chance to save my sister and that tiny scar taunts me.

Carli The day that I’ve come to call Vibrogate, has been synonymous with jokes around the office cooler, as it were. Me. Getting off. On my own. And being seen by my employees half naked in ecstasy? Yeah, that went over really well with Kato. He was bringing in my two-thirty appointment,

a Mr. Muzuki, or who I like to call Mr. Miyagi. Wax on, wax off, dude. Learn the golden rule. Live by the hot wax, it’ll do wonders. He has to be the hairiest Japanese man I’ve met yet. Ever heard of the movie the 40-Year-Old Virgin? Well, consider him the 60-year-old virgin, and you have the picture. After redressing myself, and cleaning up my apparel, I was told how they thought that someone was attacking me. Nope, I was attacking me. And it was lovely, until the Gorilla virgin showed up. It’s been two more weeks of drastically boring meetings, awful conversations about who’s running what trade, and what shipment was hacked, before I feel like throwing up every twenty minutes. No, really. I feel like throwing up every twenty minutes. I’d had a horrible night’s sleep, and my sisters were thankfully carted off to some mountain retreat for the weekend so they weren’t around to harass me. Mainly, it was because everyone thought I had a flu bug. Best part of that? I’ve been left alone. Pulling out my phone, I dial Circe who picks up on the third ring. “What the fuck took you so long!” “Well hello to you too, Circe.” “Dammit, woman. I’ve been out of my mind worried about you. You didn’t call or write after you landed. I haven’t had a single drunk text, and

not one dick pic. What the F!” And there’s my consummate good girl who can’t say the word fuck. “Circe, I’m fine. Well, other than this flu bug that I seem to have caught that no one else did. How’s the racer?” “He’s fine. Yes, I’m talking about you.” With scuttling on the other end, I know she’s wrestling the phone from Wyatt. “No. You can’t talk to her, she’s my friend. Eat your Jell-O.” “Are you going to talk to me now that I’ve called from halfway around the world or what?” “Sorry, Carli. Or should I say, Kaori?” Fuck. “Damn, Crown can’t keep his mouth shut.” “You’re right, but wrong, Crown. Wyatt told me after Jamieson and him had an extensive conversation about you and him.” “So he spilled the beans, just not to you. Still the same thing, Circe.” “Yeah, well, I threatened his Jell-O supply, so I guess it was my female persuasion techniques that made it happen.” Pausing, I hear them arguing about Jell-O again. Jesus Christ, enough with the fucking Jell-O! “So how’s Osaka? Things quiet or what?” “Yeah, meetings. Loads of boring, annoying, disenchanting and dry meetings. It’s pretty here, though. You’d love that.” “Yeah. I’d love it more if we were there

together checking it out and you weren’t a kidnap victim.” “You and me both. I miss LA.” “Yeah.” Changing gears, her voice turns sweet and sugary. “Have you talked to him?” She’s fishing, using my own tactics against me. I’m so proud of my little Circe. All grown up. I’m trying to avoid it. Him. All of him. “Who?” The memory of him has caused me enough trouble in the past few weeks. Like I need to talk to him. Like I need more wet dreams that are unfulfilling and dull in comparison. “Of course I mean Jamieson.” “You didn’t mean my gay / straight boss Chris? ’Cause no, I called you first. You’re more important than that male hooker.” “Wrong male slut, Carli. I meant the other one. Have you called him? Or was I the lucky contestant to get first chance at Jeopardy?” “Funny. Your humor hasn’t increased any. And your tact has definitely decreased. I see the directness of your racer is wearing on your ability to bite your tongue.” With more wrestling on the line, and pouting shouts, I have the feeling Circe finally lost. “Oh, she bites her tongue plenty. She bites other things—” I yell into the phone, cutting him off. “Oh! That’s enough, Casper Crown! Don’t give me a

visual of you two.” Crossing my arm over my head to close out the light, I’m trying to remove the idea of my friend biting any part of Wyatt, ever-loving sexy Casper Crown. Since meeting Circe, his Siren, Wyatt’s become lighter, and joking is a part of that. His brother, on the other hand, is the dark, serious brute. It’s bad enough mine has been put on the back burner. I can’t be thinking about her sex life. And Jamieson has the starring role in my singlehanded ministrations. “Did you call Jamieson, Carli?” Wyatt laughs into the receiver. “Have you been video fucking at least?” “No. Sorry, Cas. I don’t mean to wreck your vision of a double wedding, but Jamieson and I had a fling, nothing more.” Liar. I haven’t quit thinking about him. In my defense, I haven’t had anyone else to envision. His deep, throaty voice, body built for sin, and my vivid imagination of what else we could have gotten up to if Kato hadn’t shown up, keeps me busy. “Circe misses you. You should come home. You’d see the progress she’s made. I’m hoping we’re out of here in a week or so.” You can hear the happiness in his voice, but there’s still the other shoe to drop. With Wyatt and his bipolar condition, there’s always the other shoe. Circe helps to

regulate him, his moods, and reminding him that the drugs are necessary, but there’s always a chance for a fall. “Wyatt, that’s great,” I tell him. “Yeah. I’m itchin’ to get out of here. I need to touch metal. I’m going stir crazy now that I can walk again.” Reaching over, grabbing my drink, I take a huge gulp of the cool liquid. The only thing I’ve kept down are crackers and soda water to quench the thirst. Against my better judgement, without overthinking it, I ask the question I probably shouldn’t. “So, um…how is he?” Silence. “Hello? Earth to Casper.” “Why don’t you call him and find out?” If I was on FaceTime, I don’t think his smile would fit in the screen. “Why don’t you tell me before I send ninjas to invade your room while you sleep? You’ll wake with pink hair, bright blue fingernails, and a tutu, Crown. There will be pictures. I’m still vindictive from afar, remember that.” As he laughs, my stomach grumbles. Lifting off the couch quickly, I know the outcome if I don’t. I’ll spew across my living room. Holding the phone at a distance, I push the door to the bathroom wide. “Wyatt, can you hang

on a second?” Setting the phone on mute, I throw up in the porcelain bowl, emptying out nothing of substance. Once I’m done, I release the mute button and apologize. “Sorry. This is awful. I didn’t want to do it in your ear. I hope I hit the button fast enough so you didn’t get a firsthand experience.” “How about I put Circe back on. It sounds like you’re kind of busy.” As I wait for him to pass me back to Circe, I rise from the floor and wash up. “Carli? You okay? How long have you been sick? Maybe you should get checked out by a doctor. They have clinics there, right?” Waving off her concern, I traipse back to the couch, feeling lighter, but worse. “I don’t need to go to the doctor for something as simple as this. You don’t go to the doctor about the flu. You go when you need a checkup, stupid gyno appointments, and when you need your prescriptions refilled. It’s like going for a split nail, for Pete’s sake.” “Fine, but do me a favor. If it lasts more than a few days, go get checked.” It’s already been a few days. Actually, it’s been a few weeks, off and on, but I figured it was the food arguing every time I tried to take something else other than crackers in. “Yes, Mom. I promise.” “Well, Wyatt and I are supposed to have

physio appointments soon, so I better go. Don’t be a stranger, Carli. Don’t leave me wondering if you’re okay, got it?” “Oh, pulling out the big guns, huh? The ‘I worry about you’ clause.” Rolling my eyes at her is lost on a phone call, so I just answer. “I promise not to leave you worrying.” “Good.” I don’t need to look to know that Circe is crying. “Love you, Car. And I miss you so much. Don’t be gone so long again, okay?” With tears threatening my eyes, I answer her back. “I promise, love. No more kidnappings. I’ll do my best to call you every week.” “Love you.” “Love you, too.” Hanging up the line, I push the tears away. I won’t let my missing her get to me. I won’t let it… Dammit. Now I’m crying.

Jamieson “Did she tell you she was holding a party?” Wyatt asks, kind of pissed off. “Nope. Don’t think she told me she was having a party, Wyatt. Nothing about a party was ever mentioned,” I reply, staring at our little sister. It’s been a little over two months since I’d seen Carli, and I’ve thrown myself into the affairs of Crown to avoid anything that has to do with China’s incarceration. That includes today. “China, we need to know about these things.

Don’t leave us out of the loop.” Crossing her arms over her chest, she scrunches up her face. China is thoroughly unimpressed with our banter. She’s trying to be mad at us. “‘China this, China that. Doll, don’t do it. Doll, you’re not old enough to know the consequences of doing something stupid.’ Don’t you two ever get tired of the same lines? I know I’m damn tired of hearing you both. How about a new conversation? I’m turning twenty-one and I’m having a party. No arguments. Neither of you have a say in this, and I’ll do as I damn well please.” Looking at Wyatt, quirking an eyebrow at him, I try to bug her a touch further. “No one is allowed in my room, and no one in Wyatt’s. And if you even think of letting some horny youngsters in our parents’ room, you better be ready to burn the whole place down.” “Give me a break! It’s my house in twenty minutes. Once we sign those papers, I’m the proud owner of the house on the hill. You’ll have no say, boys.” Indignant and annoyed, China has turned a new shade of blue. Ignoring her and talking to Wyatt, I try to irk her further. “What you think, Wyatt? Do you think she’s good enough to do this on her own now?” We’ve talked at length about it. “Yeah, I think if she can handle us giving her a

hard time, she can probably handle the race team. What do you think, Doll?” “Sorry? Did I miss something? What are you two talking about?” Good. She’s confused. “Well, we talked about it and worked it out without you. Even with your recent fiascos with the law, you’ve held your ground. You did well, and both of us think you’ll do good as the Interim President of Crown Industries. Of course, that’s if you want it until Wyatt is free of the hospital?” She’s still utterly confused, so I continue. “Look, Doll. I’m going back to Vale as soon as I can, and we figured you can do Crown Industries’ justice. You up for it?” After that initial conversation with the lawyers, the way they wanted to bend things, how the stockholders wanted to sway things, and our parents’ wishes, Wyatt and I decided it was best to put this in our hands, as a family. “Yeah. Jamieson and I worked it out. The lawyers are in for a shock in twenty minutes, but we figured it was best to get the shock factor out of the way with you first.” Looking at me, then Wyatt, China’s expression runs the gambit. From shock, surprise, wonder, confusion, and finally, elation. Merconda Smith and our team of ex-lawyer vipers left just a few hours ago. That was after we’d told them we were leaving their firm. I bet Ms.

Smith’s panties were a smidge fuller than when she walked in. Crown Industries was their law firm’s biggest client, and now we’re Grundy and Smith’s biggest client. We’d had too many variables with Merconda’s firm, too many things they could sway. Now the three of us are equal partners in the family business. We’ll decide how it goes. No one can change things on us again. Quieter this time, China smiles wide. “So you want me to run Crown while you get well?” “Mom and Dad never saw your potential, sis. We do. We know you can do it well,” Wyatt states, grinning wide. Without warning, flying across the room, China wraps Wyatt in a huge bear hug. From here, I hear her crying into his shoulder tears of joy. There was no doubt in our minds when we talked about it. She’s strong, and I know she can do it. Lawyers wanted me, I wanted Wyatt, and they’d overlooked her strengths. Jumping up from embracing Wyatt, in seconds, my little sister has me wrapped tight. “Thank you, Whiskey. You two are the best brothers any girl could ask for.” “You’ll do great, Doll.” Petting the top of her head, I happily hug her back. Mom may have lost faith in me with Petra, and maybe that’s why I’ve stayed away from China, but I know she’s got this in the bag.

Pulling back, smiling up at me, I see the same in her as Petra. She’s strong, she takes no shit, and she’ll never let someone tell her it can’t be done. But, before we move on, we have to deal with the final arrangements for our mother’s funeral. She’s been on ice since the accident, and Merconda reminded us we needed to finish her burial. “Okay, so the lawyers are going to be here soon. About Mom’s funeral. Do you have any races scheduled right after you lose the ankle monitor and the chaperone?” I ask China. “Nope. Nothing will hold me back.” “That’s good. Now, the only hitch in a date is you, Wyatt. What about your progress? Are we good to go for the week after China is free and clear?” It’s the end of the week. He’s been doing so well, and so is Circe. I don’t see them needing a further stay. “I’d love for someone to try and stop me.” .

Carli Speaking in Japanese has become easier and easier over the weeks. My rusty tongue finally decided to go along with the inflections somewhere around the time I stopped throwing up my measly crackers every hour. Kato still haunts me, trailing behind me like a shadow, hoping to stop me from pulling a vibrator out of my bag in public. Surprise on him, I went and bought one of those small toys you have a remote for that stays in your V all day. Yep, this girl is happy anytime she wants to be

now. And right now, I’m disturbingly in need. Why, you ask? Well it seems being the head of a Yakuza family means ‘offing’ people, deciding warfare against other clans that don’t adhere, and finding ways to get our drugs, girls, and guns through customs. Padding the pockets of officials through all sorts of channels, I would never have thought this would possibly become my new norm. And you probably wonder, do I like it? I’m learning diplomacy through baffling. I use Kato as my advisor and leave him to the heavy stuff. That way, when there’s a head to come down on, it ain’t mine. He’s more entrenched in this anyway, and way better at the cutthroat shit. I want nothing to do with it. Does it make me weak? No. A master delegator and super awesome bitch is what I am. Have they learned I won’t be my father in all ways? Yes. But I’ve also showed them I’m not a pushover. They believed they could show me the dirtiest, darkest, most fucked up parts of their world, and that I’d crack under the pressure. But that didn’t happen. Three weeks ago, I was taken on a ‘field trip’ to one of our sweat shops. Young girls, no older than my sisters, sewing garments that are meant to look like the real deal. Their wants and needs mean shit. If they argue any, their dead body turns up in an alley a few hours later. I can’t stop it, even though I’m the head of the family. I can try to

implement changes through Kato, but, I have to do it with sneaky diplomacy. Like a thermonuclear strike hidden in a pink clutch, disguised as a tampon. No man in his right mind would expect it, and I’m doing it daily, bit by bit, second by second, until I’m wearing him down. Little bits of sweetness, giving in to his evil machinations, exhausting him with sarcasm, and not asking him to eat my American food anymore. Junk, he calls it. At least there are decent vegan stores, or I’d be eating bamboo shoots all day. Today, we’ve been in this meeting for forty long minutes, more than I’d like. And we’ve only been here for forty-five. I’ve looked at my watch, checked texts from my sisters, Chris and Circe, and fucked around on social sites. My mental Kung Fu is strong, ignoring so well that my head nod is sufficient enough for respectful conversation. “In the wake of Sunday’s arrest of Mato, Sho, and Takao at one of the heroine plants, the operation has to be closed temporarily,” Kou states. “NPA officer Chen Chow, that disgusting parasite can’t be bought. I’ve tried everything to pressure her. She has no family, no long-term boyfriends, no pets, and nothing of worth to scare her with.” His sweaty paunch and horrible comb-over, he’s the perfect example of why I don’t find Japanese men sexy. They let themselves go to pot when they find a wife, and concubines. But also, when the sake

becomes their favorite thing instead of a gym and haircuts, I draw the line. While I’m reading a text from Chris, that shows his latest polls, I speak out about Chen Chow. “Maybe she’s gay.” “What would make you think that, Oya—” Giving him a stern look, Kou stops before finishing that word I hate. I’m not the boss because I fought my way to the top, killing opponents and torturing young souls. I have this because my father trusted that I wouldn’t screw it up. Well, I’ll screw it up, just not less than he expected my sweet sisters would. But I love them. Otherwise, I wouldn’t be here. With their dark chocolate eyes the size of dinner plates, thick eyelashes that I’d kill for, and perfect complexions, it’s easier to tell them apart now. Miori has short hair, and Kano has hair that rivals the best hair models. It courses the length of her back, spun up in lazy buns that make it messy and controlled. They’re the Olsen twins of Japan. And these old bastards wanted to take them as second wives? Fuck that. Turning my attention back to Kuo, I say, “If she’s not dating a guy, and I’ve seen photos of Chen—she’s a good-looking lady—then she’s dating her best friend. Trust me, I have expertise in this. She’s tapping Georgia.” He looks confused. “Georgia? How do you

know she’s Georgia?” Geeze! Stuffing my phone in my pocket, looking as annoyed as I can, I turn to Kuo. “She’s dating a girl. Saying she’s tapping Georgia is like saying girl on girl.” I’m exhausted talking to these stupid criminal minds. Sure, they know how to protect their financial interests in the dark, seedy corners of the business, but they don’t have a fucking clue about the workings of new love in this age. “Kuo, get one of the idiots you have grabbing your sake, and ask them to tail her. I bet you’ll find her going to clubs with different friends, going to coffee, dinner, the movies. She’s not specific on one girl because she’s not settled on one. You’ll have your blackmail that way.” Rising from the chair and pushing it back, I start away. “I’m bored with this. I’m going to lunch with my sisters. Don’t piss me off further today.” “Thank you, Obayun,” Kato says. Prick knows how that pisses me off. Fine, I’ll play his game. “Anytime, Jiji.” Fucker.

Carli As usual, I rise, they rise. I tell them off, they bow and smile. Fuckers. Walking out of the room, I don’t have to turn to know that my bodyguard is hot on my heels. I can’t go anywhere without him. He’s always right there! Even at public washrooms. Entering first, checking that there’s no one hiding in the stall, he then clears the room and stands guard outside the door. A couple times, I’ve

tricked his ass. Screaming there was a snake in the toilet, or that there was a ninja descending from the ceiling tiles. That one was fun. Well, it was fun until a whole fucking cadre of men showed up and ushered me out of there like Obama when a car backfires. Then it wasn’t fun. The look on the poor girl who’d waited on me in the Gucci store almost peed herself when he wanted her to strip in the middle of the store. He thought she was wearing the outfit under this season’s sarong. Awful, I tell ya. After that, we set ground rules. He stays his distance unless I expressly state I need him. At least fifty paces back, or I’m allowed to have him castrated with dull spoons. Walking into Mioshi’s—this crazy upscale, guarded more than the president kind of restaurant —I find my sisters waiting for me. Mioshi’s has vegan and off the wall delicacies, so of course it attracts seriously posh clientele. Noticing the girls’ guards, Hiro and Muki, who I call Dumb and Dumber, I nod my hello. Hiro is an expensive coat hook, but there he is, holding the twins’ purses. Muki smiles at me when I arrive, pulling out my chair with a greeting of, “Obayun.” When he says it, I honestly don’t mind. It’s not like Kato, who says it with dirt in his mouth as it disgusts him. Also, Muki and Hiro are nice, not stuck up, pompous assholes. Watching all eyes of the restaurant track me as

I enter, the formal and totally unnecessary bows are just that—unnecessary. I didn’t want this job. I didn’t ask for it. But I’ll damn well make sure it works to our advantage, even if I am leaving the sexiest man I’ve ever met behind. Definitely not wanting to think about him today, I turn my attention to my runway model sisters. Yeah, I’m pretty, and I can rock couture, but they have something special about how they swish into a room. “Kaori!” Jumping out of her seat, she yells my name so loud, I think even the kitchen staff heard, Kano leaps to give me a hug. Wrapping her arms around me, wrinkling any chance I had of my outfit looking freakin’ great today, I hug her back. We’re the same height, but with my blue eyes and thinner framed face, and her chocolate eyes with a rounder look, it’s easy to see that we’re related. But I’m not her twin. “Hey, Mono.” Oh yeah, the other part of Kano, she’s deaf in one ear. Everyone saw it as a defect when she was younger, but I think it makes her even more special. Letting me go, sitting back in her chair, Kano smiles up at Muki as he ushers her chair back into the table for her. Oh, I’m so working on those two. Matchmaker me is on the hunt. They’re definitely in need of a hook up.

“So, what’s good today? What’s the special?” I ask my sisters, but before either can answer, a short, middle age waiter pops up like one of those hedgehogs, or whatever those things are in the whack-a-mole game. “Today is fresh trout on a bed of toasted kale, with sweet potato ginger mash, Obayun.” Fuck. Does everyone in Osaka know I’m the head now? “My name is Carli. Please, no boss here, okay?” It exhausts me daily to hear I’m the boss of anything. All I want is for Kato to say he’ll take the job, and I can go back to my real life in LA and Indy. I miss the shit out of it. Nodding, and offering an apologetic bow, the waiter shakes. I know my father ruled with an iron fist, and that his bidding was done immediately— hence, why I left—but I’m not my father. I have no care for subservient beings to kiss my feet and wipe my arse. I want respect for being Carli, not some boss of the Ryu Yakuza. “If you say it’s good, I’ll give it a go. No fish.” Nodding again, he turns to my sisters. Each of them rhyme off their wants, and I watch them. The way they move, shift, and complement each other in movements is astonishing. They really are mirrors of each other. The worst part, I missed most of their teenage years, running away from our father. I guess the fates have decided I needed to be here

now, instead of where I’ve made a home, friends, and finally… Yeah, not going there. Once the waiter has taken all of our orders, he spins at light speed, flying into the kitchen. “Kaori, I heard you might have a way to deal with Chen?” Miori says deadpan. Narrowing my gaze, I’m flabbergasted. “And you know this how? I drove straight here after the meeting, so how do you know?” My little sisters are sneaky fuckers. Lifting her glass of water and taking a sip, Miori is prolonging the suspense of her knowledge. Setting the drink down, she says, “Kato. Who else?” Sneaky and underhanded Miori. Color me impressed. I wonder what she’s done to get an answer out of a closed-door meeting from Kato, but I’ll work on that later. For now, she thinks she’s the smart one knowing things, but now I know it means I can leverage her to plant ideas with Kato. “You know, I had an idea for one of the shipping channels. Soaking the bamboo hats we transport to Hong Kong, then out to New York for Bustamante. Less stringent inspections that way. Truly high fashion.” I don’t worry about saying anything I shouldn’t here, as we own it, and anyone who enters knows who we are. They’d be idiots to cross or mess with a soul in this place.

With expedience, our waiter returns laden down with salads, drinks, and an assortment of hors d’œuvres. “With compliments from the chefs. They hope you enjoy your meal, Ms. Carli.” Shaking my head as he’s leaving with the same speed again, I wonder what’s so scary about me? Yeah, I’m a bitch. Yeah, I can put people in their place if it’s deserved, but he hasn’t garnered any reason yet to see my bad side or fear me. I want to go home. I want to click my heels, wish on a star, and hope against all hope that I could go back. I’ve said that already, dammit. Shit, I really want to go back to where I call home. Looking over the full table, it all screams to me. Decidedly, I didn’t eat much this morning, and now, with at least a gallon of coffee coursing through me, I better stuff something in this gut of mine. For the past few weeks, my stomach has argued with almost everything, except crackers. Looking at the cucumber sweet salad, I pull a forkful to my mouth. It tastes scrumptious. Honestly, anything would taste five star with the extent of my measly meals lately. And as long as it doesn’t look for a repeat performance, then I’m good. Delving into it further, seeing that nothing feels to be coming back to haunt me, I tear into the mango salad, the wonton wrapped fried pickles, the

lime and ginger coated crusty tofu, and the drink the waiter brought. “Hungry?” Kano jests. “When you throw up for three weeks straight, don’t eat anything other than crackers and finally feel like eating, then come tease me,” I huff, munching down on a warm chunk of tofu. It tastes like heaven. Giggling, Kano turns to Miori. Whispering in her ear, both break out in further laughs and stares. At me. “What?” I mouth around my meal. Smirking devilishly, they say in unison, “Nothing.” Swallowing the morsel and dabbing the corners of my mouth, I turn to the two of them. “Don’t leave me out of the joke you two. I still know where you hide your porno mags and dildos. Want me saying it loud enough for everyone to hear?” Faking that I’m about to voice it, Miori pipes up. “Fine. We think you…” She pauses for dramatics. I’m really starting to hate her habit. Frustrated with the wait, I say, “Miori, say it.” Opening her mouth first, though, Kano blurts out loudly, “Your pregnant!” Of course, with her half deaf, her voice carries a heck of a lot farther than she thinks. The room silences, and I feel like a

two-year-old being tattled on, taking in all the odd stares. Ignoring her idea, I get back to my food. “I’m always careful. I love sex as much as the next person, but I don’t strip down for anyone without a plastic-coated hammer.” Except Jamieson. Forking in another wonton pickle, cutting it in half and chewing it, I mentally count the dates. I flew to Japan that day...that was….that was… Shit. “Excuse me,” I say, rising from the table.

Circe “Hello, love. I have news for you. Oh, and I miss you.” “Circe, I need you,” Carli whispers into the phone. “What’s going on, Car? You don’t whisper when you can scream. What’s happened?” “Are you alone?” Again, whispering. Walking into our hospital room, I’m totally alone. Wyatt is off getting rehab right now, so I shouldn’t be bothered.

“Yeah, I am. Car?” “I’m hiding in the bathroom of a restaurant because I’m scared.” Now she’s freaking me out. “Carli, call the cops. Call out for someone to help you. There has to be someone—” “No!” she yells, then quiets again. “No. Only you. Can you leave your racer? Would Wyatt let you out of his sight?” What the fuck is going on? “Carli, talk to me. What’s wrong?” “Where to start? Fuck.” Going quiet, I hear the door of the bathroom open and someone call out her name. “I’m here. Yep. All peachy. I’ll be out in a few minutes. Thanks, Kano.” Well, that makes me feel better. Her sister is with her. Coming back on the line, Carli still sounds panicked. “This is one of those times when you need to toss it down with a girl in the hall in an expensive dress. Get me?” Yeah, I do. Smiling to myself, I’m reminded of how great it was. “Will you tell me what’s going on? I need more than just a fist fight requirement to get away from Wyatt. You know that.” She’s silent for a long time before she huffs out, “Fine. You know I’ve been sick for a few weeks?” Wondering where this is going, I say, “Yeah?”

“Well, I’m eating like a pig today, and my sisters pipe up that I might be...ya know. Carrying something with a crown on it.” “OH FUCK!” I yell out, then cover my mouth quickly. Last thing I need is someone coming to see what’s going on. “Yeah, that’s about it. Circe, I need you.” “Have you talked to Jami—” “No! And you are not telling him. Got it?” Blowing out a heavy breath, I pace the space. “Carli, Wyatt’s not letting me out of his sight without a reason. There’s gotta be something good to get me to Japan, lover. I mean, shit, we have Marca’s funeral tomorrow.” Pushing out a breath and making ticking sounds, I can imagine what Carli is thinking right now. Her life was turned upside down. She’s head of a crime cartel because she had to, to save her sisters from servitude, and now she’s possibly pregnant. “Tell him I was kidnapped by trolls. Tell him I was sold into the skin trade for my sexy body.” I can imagine her looking herself over. “Okay, maybe not a sexy body soon if it’s true, but you get the jist. I need you.” “Okay, got it. You need help. Let me see what I can work out. I’ll send you the details once I do.” “Nope. Not waiting on commercial shit. I’ll send a jet over. They’d be there in, like, fifteen

hours at the most. I’ll text you the address, the runway, and the access to get through without that pesky customs stuff. Just get to the plane and get here.” “Fine. I’ll get something worked out with Wyatt. But, you know he’s going to want the truth. I have to. And I won’t be able to get out of the funeral at all. So, get ready for Whiskey, too. There’s no way he’d—” “Nope. Promise me it’s only you. No Crowns.” Without arguing further, I tell her what I can without lying. “I’m on it, Carli.” “Thanks, lover. See you soon.” I hang up the phone. “Oh, the shit has hit the fan.”

Jamieson Now that we’ve settled the lawyers, switched to the new firm, situated the roles for each of us, and thankfully, mine is only temporary until Wyatt is well, things are getting back to normal in the lives of myself and my remaining family. Tomorrow we’re laying our mother to rest. Tonight is her cremation. I don’t mean disrespect, but after Petra, mother gave zero attention to me. I was shunned. They no longer trusted me to take care of anything. Bet it would burn her ass to know

it was me that saved us from the evil lawyers they left to care for Crown Industries and us. I’m not bitter, I’m just not sure what other feelings to have toward her. Moving out to live with my Aunt Janie, mother never visited. I was basically ignored, and anytime I came home, I felt like a stranger. I wanted her love, like I had before the accident. Lifting my shirt, looking at that tiny scar, it reminds me of all the things that I lost when Petra died. It wasn’t just her, there was my family, the care I felt from them, and a part of me died. The conversations we had, the times we did the things we knew we shouldn’t, and that we were particularly pleased we got away with, it was always together. After? I learned how to be alone. I guess that’s why I’m so good at snowboarding; it’s a single sport. I don’t rely on anyone. I don’t have to do anything that I don’t want to do. It’s me and the snow. Fuck, I miss it. I’m experiencing the reverse winter blues. I miss the winter, the cold, and the sharp, biting winds. If it weren’t for the air conditioning cranked in my hotel room, the hospital, and the car, I’d have melted like a fucking snowman in June. Speaking of, here I am, back in the cold car, driving to Powder Kings to check on the final inspection from the building department. If all is good, I’ll have the

costs of those destroyed boards and merchandise reimbursed by insurance. With Doll at the helm, Wyatt on the mend, and Carli gone, I can’t wait to get back to what truly makes me, me. Everything in the hotel, hospital, and even the freckles on my cock remind me of her. For a guy that normally has sex multiple times a week, my hand is definitely strengthening. Carli messed me. I can’t look at another girl without thinking of what’s missing. The long hair, the sass, the fire, the shoes, even. Carli is one of a kind and...I let her go. I didn’t stop her, or go with her. I could have, but I didn’t. It’s not like I don’t have the coin to join, what with Powder Kings my board company, sponsors, my own money—that I’ve amassed, thanks to Aunt Janie—and to all the Crown worth that I’ve inherited, I’ve got enough that I should’ve just gone. But I didn’t. I won’t desert them. Wyatt and China deserve more from me. And Carli? She’s a tick I can’t shake. Not very romantic, but Carli is something that I can’t get out of my system. Try as I might, my cock rises to the occasion unbidden almost hourly. Shaking off the thoughts of her, the feel of her and her voice, I pull up and park at Powder Kings. There’s a steady influx of customers coming and going, and it makes me wonder why. It’s never this fucking busy.

Locking up and strutting through the crowds, I hear my name a few times. Smiling, I acknowledge a few as I pass. Stepping through the doors, I see the desk kid I met before, and Gruber. The two are selling the damaged boards and merchandise with a massive sign behind their head that says, ‘Cold as Ice Fire Sale.’ “Hey!” I yell over the din. Seeing me, grinning wide, Gruber shouts back, “Hang on, Whiskey.” Watching him hand over the merchandise to someone, he skooches out from behind the counter. “You see this? Pretty amazing, huh?” “What the fuck is going on?” I ask him, just as a group of teenage girls giggle loudly, attempting to garner my attention. Ignoring them is increasingly hard, as they try to take pictures beside me, like I’m Shaq or something. I move away from them, further into the store, away from the cash desk. “The insurance called two days ago, said that the cash was already deposited. I asked what we should be doing with the stuff. You know, boxing it up to send away or something, and he said to sell it, toss it, it didn’t matter. So, I made up the sign with the store next door and did a bunch of quick fire sale promos on Instagram, Snapchat, and Facebook. This?” He waves his hands around the crowd. “Is all because of that. Pretty awesome, if I do say so myself.”

He’s pleased as punch, and I can’t see any reason not to love it. “Fuckin’ smart, Gruber. How’re the sales going?” “Actually, that’s the best part. Most of the damaged goods were gone yesterday. All these people are buying new equipment. I’ve already gone to deposit close to fifteen grand, and it’s only two o’clock.” Holy shit! “You’re fucking with me?” He laughs. “Nah, not a lie. This is all just fucking gravy.” Now I’m smiling. “Wow. Nice marketing, man. Keep up the good work.” As I’m saying this, my phone vibrates. “Hang on,” I tell Gru, grabbing my phone out. It’s not a number I know so I answer. “Yeah, go ahead.” “Mr. Crown? Mr. Jamieson Crown?” That’s never a good sign. “Yeah, this is he. Who is this?” “This is Mr. Johns from Weber Crematorium. We’ve had a…well, I’m not quite sure how to tell you this?” “Spit it out. It’s not like she can get up and walk away. What’s wrong?” Huffing into the phone, he sounds stressed. “Mr. Crown, we’ve had an accident here.” “What kind of accident could you have at a crematorium, Mr. Johns?” I’m thinking he’s mixed her ashes with someone’s dog, or that they burned

her wrong. “Well, sir, she was the last into the system. And, um, the crematorium is now...on fire.” “Isn’t that the whole point of a place that burns things? A fire?” “Yes, sir. That would be true, but normally, we don’t set the building on fire and burn the remaining clients at the same time.” Fuck me! My mother couldn’t just go, could she? Had to take a building with her. Now, I’m the one huffing. “I guess Marca Crown just had to have one last hurrah. Nothing like a party to send you off, Mother, right?”

Jamieson “This is shit even I couldn’t think up.” Telling Wyatt that our mother’s ashes we’re now mixed in with other various people, pets, and vagrants, was not an easy task. The last thing I wanted to do was add stress to his life. He’s just getting his shit right, and telling Doll? Shit, I’m scared to see how she’s going to react. Watching Wyatt use his opposite hand, trying to pack his bags up, is downright painful. I offered to help him, but he’s a stubborn brute and won’t

even accept help with the simplest shit. He’s stressed today, and I have no idea why. Fuck, he was this way before I even told him about the crematorium. Something’s off. Something’s definitely off. Circe is sitting to the side, staring, not saying a word. Not talking. That in itself is fucking scary, if even she can’t calm him. “What’s going on?” I ask the two of them, hoping at least one will answer. “Nothing,” Wyatt chirps off quickly. Yeah, something big is going on. I know it’s not them breaking up, because the rock of Gibraltar is still on her finger. The engagement ring he gave her last week has to be at least two carats. Her skinny fingers can hardly hold the thing up. I’m happy for him, really, but seeing the two of them on edge makes me itchy. “You’re packing like there was a fire in the closet when I entered, so start telling me, or I’ll punch you in the jaw. Or I’ll tell that nurse of yours you had a relapse. She’ll be in here so fast with a syringe, you won’t know what hit you, Casper.” I’m sexually frustrated, I’m annoyed that things are worsening, and if these two don’t start talking, I’m going to lose my shit. Just as I think Wyatt’s about to talk, sister dearest storms into the room with her jailor slash boyfriend in tow. “Hey. What’s the big fuss you

needed me to come here, Whiskey? And why is Wyatt packing in anger?” Halting, Wyatt turns to us with fire in his eyes as I respond to Doll. “Fuck if I know why he’s steamin’ hot. Circe isn’t speaking either.” Looking at her, arms crossed and lips tight, I swear we’ll never get to the bottom of this without a serious family fight. Traipsing in, Doll heads straight to Circe. It’s amazing how things have changed. It used to be Doll’s full attention was on Wyatt, but now she’s looking to the girl before the brother. “Hey man, good to see you,” Risen says, offering out a hand. “You, too. She keeping you on your toes?” My little sister can be a handful. No, she’s a basket full of grenades with one pin pulled. Rolling his eyes, he chuckles. Doll innately knows she’s about to be outed. She turns and glares at Risen before placing her attention back on Circe. “More than you know, brother. More than you know.” She’s had her ankle monitor off for a week now, and has been back to racing. Risen and her hooked up somewhere along the incarceration, and voilà! Love. Or, at least a heavy like. “How’s the training going?” I ask. The reason I ask is that he’s been training right alongside her. He was once a cop, her cop, but that’s another

story. Risen, he too has the racing bug. He tried out one of the cars at the house while they were holed up, and she noticed he had a knack for it. So Dad’s best friend and race partner has been working with him in one of Dad’s old Indy cars. Ben said he’s a natural. “Yeah, good. Doll just cheats—” “I don’t cheat! I use the full track to my advantage. Your problem is you can’t run the inside like I can. Pussy.” Rising up and leaving Circe stewing in the corner still, China tucks herself into the side of Risen. She’s happy, so I’m happy. Even if I know the history with him and Tre, I don’t bug it. That’s not my fight. Trellis and he will work it out eventually. Turning my attention back to the pissed off brother in the corner, I watch him shove his shaver and toothbrush in the bag. We can’t leave him like this. I need to get him to tell us what the hell is going on. “Wyatt, this shit has got to stop. You can’t just keep bottling up crap when you’re pissed. Let us help you.” Piping up, China tries her own approach, as he’s still not answering me. “Ghostman, look. Whatever the fuck it is, tell us. It can’t be that bad.” Muttering, Wyatt pipes up, “You don’t know how bad this shit is.” He points to me. “You are gonna be so pissed.”

“What the fuck did I do?” Slamming clothing into the bag, he turns to Circe, clearly upset with her about something. “Ask her. She’s running off to see Carli and won’t tell me why.” Pardon? “You’re pissed off at Circe because she’s going to check on her friend?” China spews out, pissed at him. “She won’t say. I’ve never held anything back from you, never. And you won’t tell me something that clearly has nothing to do with me,” Wyatt seethes. “Why are you running off to Carli? What’s got his panties in a twist?” I ask. Looking up from the floor with an apology clearly written on her face, Circe speaks. “I promised her I wouldn’t tell you, and she made me swear not one Crown goes with me. I’m sorry.” “Circe, if you’re marrying into this family, there are never secrets.” “Sorry, I can’t. She asked me to swear, and honestly, she wanted me to lie but I couldn’t, so I’m just not saying anything.” Okay, now I’m pissed. “Does it have something to do with us? Is that why she made you promise no Crowns come with you?” Her eyes blaze wide for a split second. She’s hiding something huge.

“What if we guess it? You’re not really telling anything if we figure it out,” Risen suggests. His cop skills of interrogation are coming in handy. Hopefully it works, because I’m at a loss. “Well, if you guessed it, and I didn’t state it aloud, then I’m not telling you. But, you have to promise not one of you comes with me.” Circe is visibly afraid we’ll figure it out, and even more afraid that we’ll follow. Dammit, now I definitely want to know. Pulling up a chair, China is excited. “Okay, this will be kind of like charades, I guess. Or…ohh! Hot potato.” “China,” Risen sighs, exasperated. Waving him off, and turning her full attention to Circe, she concentrates. “Okay, so Crown’s aren’t allowed to go, and it has something to do with Whiskey.” Turning to me, she asks, “What did you do to piss her off? Why won’t she call you and tell you herself?” “When did this become about me? I didn’t do anything to her. It’s not like she was pissed off when she left.” “So, she wasn’t mad. But why not call you?” Chicks. “I haven’t called her and she hasn’t called me. So what?” Turning her attention back to Circe, she asks another question. “Is she mad at Whiskey?” Looking skyward, trying to keep her mouth

shut, Circe bites down on her lip. “Fine. No speaking. Okay, I’ll keep trying. So she’s not mad at him, but he’s done something.” Sitting quietly for a moment, tapping her fingers on her chin, China is enjoying this way too much. “James, I didn’t know you two were even hooking up. When did that happen?” Wyatt asks me. “We met at Indy, and we’d seen each other a few times in the hospital in passing, so we went to lunch. We hooked up once. Nothing crazy happened. Nothing like your crazy kink shit you’re in to.” Smirking, Wyatt grins and winks at Circe. “Not now, Ghostman. Not now,” China huffs. Jumping up from her chair, she dances around like her hair’s on fire. She’s giddy. “I figured it out! I figured it out!” Risen laughs and slaps her on the ass. “Well share with the rest of the room. Don’t hold out, woman.” “Not here, man. That’s my baby sister,” I tell him. Raising his hands in defeat, Risen laughs deep. Fucker. Like I needed that vision. Moving over to Circe and hugging her tight, China whispers in her ear. Circe’s eyes bug out before she nods. “Yes! I am the best at this game.” Spinning

back toward me, China looks like the cat that ate the canary. “You are gonna be so pissed. And happy. Damn happy. But so pissed.” Slapping me on the arm, she smiles, laughs, then says, “Dad.” I’m stunned to silence, taking in what she just said. Wyatt takes a seat on the bed. Circe puts her head in her hands, and Risen blinks, like, fifty times. “What did you say?” “There’s about to be another Crown!” Smiling, she sits down on the edge of the bed, crosses her legs, and says, “Now, how about someone tell me why we were meeting here?”

Carli Are you fucking kidding me! Come on universe, toss me a frickin’ bone already! I’m sitting in the doctor’s office after hearing the results, completely floored by the answer. It’s true. I’m fucking pregnant. Like I needed this shit! This is so unfair. Once the doctor tells me what vitamins I’ll need, offers tips for the nausea and gives me follow up appointments for the next few months, I’m free

to leave. They don’t kid around here. This shit is figured out, given a schedule, and even confirmed what I already knew, that the timing of conception was from the illustrious Mr. Jamieson Fucking Crown and his amazing sexual antics. Which means no real guessing game on date of arrival. Nine months from the day I left LA or close to. After lunch yesterday, I sent my sisters off with their handlers and told them both there was no way I was pregnant, and if they ever spoke it again I’d be leaving dead bird heads on their pillows. I’ve done it before, and I’ll do it again. They know to live in fear. And now that I know that Miori has a direct link to Kato, you know I’m using that shit to my advantage, too. Old bastard. I’ll win at this game whether he knows it or not. And I know I’m carrying a crass, overpowering, overbearing, cynical man’s offspring, so you can bet your ass I’ll play the hormones card too. When this revelation came to light, I was needing food relief. I think I ate a full gallon of mint chip ice cream, and at least a half a box of Oreos. I told Kato I was moody after seeing my sisters, and that I just needed my friend here. Relenting after some growling noises, Kato decided that he’d personally bring me to gather my friend. With Circe due to land any minute, I’m nervous to see her. “The flight is just taxiing to the

hangar. She shouldn’t be long now, Obayun.” Fucker. Grinding my teeth, I smile sugar sweet. “Thanks, Jiji.” And a big fuck you to you, too. Smiling in the mirror, I pop the door, only to be hit by the humidity. Yeah, Japan is totally like LA for the heat, but the humidity is a new one to me. It’s sticky, my clothes always feel damp, and my hair ends up feeling filmy fast. Walking into our private receiving area, watching the plane taxi up, I see the moment the doors open. Feeling a sense of relief as Circe steps out, I’m excited after months of not having my best friend around. Seeing me through the glass, she’s smiling, but it’s not in a good way. Turning around on the stairs, instead of just walking down, Circe pauses. Shit, I have a bad feeling that her racer joined her. Watching him pop his head out the door with his arm in a sling, he gingerly steps down. As I push the door open to step out and greet them, I’m kind of surprised. Following behind is China—not one of my favorite Crowns—and her would be jailor, Risen, a guy I met a few times. I found him totally sweet, and I’m kind of wondering why he’s here too. Stopping dead in my tracks, I watch with fear as the man with the gritted teeth, sexy beard, steely eyes, and straining looks steps out. His eyes are trained on me, exploring and asking a thousand questions. Oh, I could have done without him. This

is going to end badly for someone, and I’m glad I have the people behind me to bury my mistakes if necessary. Okay, so not truly. But as I walk toward the inevitability of the conversation with Jamieson that I dread, there’s an excitement at seeing him once more.

Carli It’s like a bad joke. Yay me! I’m about to find out firsthand what motherhood is like, and I get to deal with a pissed off mountain of a man, too. Epically fun! I’d rather bargain hunt. Watching each of them saunter across the tarmac, I’m trying to figure out how fast I can submit a new flight plan to send them home. Actually, they’re rich as fuck, so they can charter their own goddamn plane.

“Carli! Oh my God, I’m so happy to see you!” Hugging me tight, I revel in the comfort of my friend. I’ll send these asses packing asap, and I’ll keep Circe hostage. I have the facilities if need be. I whisper into her hair. “I’m so glad you’re here. I missed your twisted ass.” Giggling lightly, she too whispers, “Yeah, ditto, but my ass isn’t about to get bigger from baby weight.” Pushing her back from the hug, I grin like an idiot. “I’m so damn glad you’re here.” As we’re not alone in our little bubble, I attempt the full on ‘raging psycho bitch’ face at the interlopers invading my high. “I see that when I said don’t let any Crown’s come with you, it was on wasted breath.” Walking into the cool of the building, “Yeah, about that. It wasn’t—” “It wasn’t her fault, Carli. She was packing, Wyatt was stewing, and we kind of used charades to figure out what the whole crazy cloak and dagger was about,” China offers, smiling brightly. “I figured it out, and you know, the rest is history as we’re all here.” “Yeah, still not seeing the reason why all of you are here, though,” I sigh, taking in the room full of people. “So this is how it goes,” China chirps. “We were there, meeting about something else, which

I’ll get to it in a second, when Circe was pouty and Cas was frowny. It came down to Cas wouldn’t let Circe out of his sight. Nurse Sali and Dr. Callie made us swear Wyatt wouldn’t be left alone. That’s because he’s still as frail as a paper doll. No offense, brother.” “None taken,” Wyatt laughs. “And because I wanted to see you, as I’ll be an Auntie China, then it meant that Risen would have to be here, too. Ya know, broody cop instincts about danger and trouble, blah, blah, blah.” Looking at him, and his apparent frowny face, as she called it, is darker than Jamieson’s. Yep, definitely hung up on her. She points to her brother. “Then this Viking… well, he has a vested interest in the mother in question, it seems. And I didn’t want to miss the fireworks.” She jumps up and down, slapping her hands together. “So let’s get something to eat ’cause I have the feeling this is about to get exciting.”

Jamieson To say it was a long flight is one thing, but to step off a plane in Osaka in high humidity was another. It added twenty pounds to me, and immediately caused me to sweat it off. Then to see her standing there, gorgeous as ever, awestruck and surprised by my appearance...well, let’s just say I’m not the only one with surprises, am I Kaori? To say I’ve had a while to think about it all is true, but have I come to deal with it? No. This is

not what I had in mind when I fucked Carli on the porch of my rented room. Or in the shower. Or the bed. Even on the table. I’m not a teenager worried about my parents finding out, but I sure as shit was surprised. To look at her, you wouldn’t see a change. I thought Japan would harden or soften her. I bet she’s bent them to her will. She’s still a fiery, opinionated, crash course in high grade bitch, but she’s somehow quieter. That’s scary. That itself puts the fear of God into me. “So now that you’ve all piled out of my jet like a clown car, what am I to do with you? I only wanted the lady that couldn’t keep it to herself, and my plans didn’t include sightseeing with all of you.” Looking her over from head to toe, really looking for the changes in her, I see nothing. It’s been months, and she’s just as sexy as ever. There’s nothing I’d rather do right now than to spank her while I wrap her hair tight around my hand. My cock is jumping at the chance, just hearing her speak. “Carli,” I say over the din of everyone asking questions, or arguing that it was her fault anyway. No one hears me, so I say it again louder. “Carli!” Dropping my bag to the ground, I stomp across the space until I’m right in front of her. “Katana.” Which finally grabs her attention.

“What do you want, Crown? An award? A trophy for knocking me up? I was an independent woman before you came along and I’ll—” Pressing my mouth to hers, I halt her complaint as she melts into my touch. Fuck, I love it when she’s this way. Wrapping my hands through that silken hair, tugging it, Carli moans into my mouth. It’s like cotton candy to my ten-year-old self. Nothing tastes better, nothing seems better, and nothing compares. Meshing hers with mine, we fight a tongue war, clacking teeth and smacking lips. This goes on for a while, until I hear my brother clear his throat with a derisive, “Whiskey.” When we don’t break away, the rest break into snide remarks. If I only had a room right now, the things I’d do to her. Finally backing off, I relent my hold on her mouth. Carli is out of breath. “Not your best, but it’ll do for now, Carli,” I say. I’m totally trying to garner another rise out of her. That to me is when she’s the most gorgeous woman I’ve ever met. Flushed, pissed, and spoiling for a fight. Picking up my bag, but not releasing my hold on her body, I wrap an arm around her waist. She pushes me away. “Not owned, Crown. Not owned,” she says, and I laugh out loud. “Never dull, Carli. Never.” “Clearly I can’t get rid of you immediately because the jet needs fuel, but I’ll find a way to

send your asses packing.” “You don’t have to send us away, Carli. Wyatt already rented a set of rooms at the Ritz Carlton,” Circe informs her, trying to defuse the situation. “Wait.” Pulling out her phone, Carli types away like a woman on a mission. “I may not want you all here, as I just didn’t expect it, but I’m not having you stay at that place. It’s unethical.” Placing the phone to her ear, cracking off succinct Japanese so fast that every letter seems to blend together, she clicks back and forth in her heels on the tiled floor. As quick as she started, she pockets the phone again as she walks over to one of the airport stewards. Speaking to him just as fast, he bows reverently and with respect. With a hai, which I looked up on the way here, meaning yes, he quickly turns tail and spins off into another room. Picking her phone back up, typing away fast, texting someone at lightning speed, I watch. No, I look. I know it’s only been just shy of two months since we’d seen each other, and that she’s now carrying my child, but if anything, I’d say she’s lost weight. “Done,” she says gleefully as she turns back toward us. “What’s done, Car?” Circe asks in that kind of ‘what the fuck did you do’ tone. I’m starting to see these things about my sister-in-law to be. Shit, that

still seems weird. Wyatt is going to marry this woman before I get a chance to beat him down the aisle. “I cancelled your reservations because it’s owned by a rival family, and I’ve cleared out one of my hotels for everyone.” “We’re just fine to—” China tries to protest, but she’s halted by Carli with a quick no. “Look. You know LA gangs, and you know US customs, but you can’t even fathom the insanity that is Yakuza in Japan. Trust me on this one. Even Risen would pee his former gang ass in this instance.” “That, I’d pay to see,” China quips. Bumping her on the shoulder, Risen smacks her ass and she squeals. “Risen. Sister.” I remind him, but his smirk just says it all. Ignoring the sexual tension, Carli chirps off nonchalantly, “They’re prepping the helicopters. And as soon as my sisters arrive with their entourage, we’ll head off.” “She said helicopters, right? I heard that right, right?” Circe whispers to Wyatt with a wicked grin. Nodding, he tucks her close, and I feel like the odd man out. I’m not jealous. I just want to pull Carli close and caveman that shit. But I don’t. China has to have her two cents too. “And I

thought we had money.” “Yeah, not here, sister. This is my domain and I’m queen.” “We’re obviously in the wrong family business.” Pulling her phone out again, she looks over a few texts. “This is not one you want, trust me. Now, I need to get clothing sent to the hotel, arrange the guest rooms, and prepare the exits of those there. Excuse me.” Trotting off to a back room, Carli leaves us all standing around like gaping fools. “Is there anything I can get you as you wait? I’m Kato, Obayun’s…assistant.” He looks at everyone before zeroing in on me, and I find myself shocked when he says, “Mr. Crown, how pleasant it is to see you again.” Yeah, not sure he means that as I’m the baby daddy, but I’ll take it at face value for now. “Nice to see you again.” “What does Obayun mean?” China asks. Thankfully she did or I would have. “It is a term we use for the head of the family, the boss,” he states. Wide-eyed, China smirks. “And Carli is the head of the family? She’s the boss? Your boss?” “Yes. Kaori is head of Ryu. I am her second.” “Well fuck,” Risen remarks. Nodding, Kato doesn’t say another word. He

walks off, leaving us all in awe. Well, all but me and Circe, as we already knew. We’re alone in the private airport with nothing to do until they say. Pulling up a seat on one of the couches, reclining as much as I can without taking up too much room, I make myself comfortable. As the rest follow suit, we wait for Carli to return.

Carli For fuck! Keeping them at the Ritz would be suicide. I’d have to install more security guards than staff just to make sure they’d be kept alive, or worse, not kidnapped for ransom. Moving them to Amanemu was the only logical choice. It’s secluded, quiet, and fucking gorgeous. And my sisters won’t mind. Fuck, they only left there a couple weeks ago. Texting Muki to wrangle up my sisters was easy. Informing Kato to do what I needed? Not so

easy. He hates my ass. After figuring out Chen’s gayness, my never overlooked or forgotten vibrator Jai, and that I’m not the hard-ass my father was, it hasn’t won me any points with Kato. Fuck you, asshole. I figured out Chen Chow when their liberal minds couldn’t. Informing me that my move to hide out with friends for a staycation is wrong at a time like this, I honestly lost my shit on him. I’m head until they remove it from my shoulders. And until that time, I’m going to act like the wheels of industry still turn. So I don’t want to kill others. So I don’t like the opium, heroin, and fentanyl trafficking. So I hate the young girls sold or stolen to keep our factories going. I’d be a heartless bitch if I didn’t. Plus, the knock-offs aren’t that good. Kids don’t have an eye for detail in fashion. I voiced that during a meeting of the family, and it went over as well as fish to a panda, but I didn’t ask for this job in the first place. And yeah, I’m glad that Circe is here. It’s odd she brought the whole gang when they should have been at home dealing with a funeral for Marca Crown, but I’ll get the story on that soon enough, I’m sure. Then there’s him, Jamieson. Did I think after I told Circe I was pregnant that I’d make a clean break? No. Not after the story he told me of his

sister, Petra. Family means too much to Jamieson. Go figure. For a guy whose family left him to his own devices and literally avoided him, he’s the first to try to make sure they stay together. And his kiss. Fuck! Damn, did I ever miss that. His commanding lips, that rough, yet soft beard… Oh, lovely. It’s been months and I still melt into his touch at the drop of a hat. I’m hotter than a boiled pot, and wetter than a cup a tea. What the hell is with the analogies? I swear I’ll break out in rhyme soon. If that happens, someone shoot me. Laying my hands on my chin, leaning on the countertop, I watch from the one-way glass. Staring at Jamieson, checking out every angle of that sweet ass, his strong legs that held me upright so well, and just about anything else I can remember from that day, I start muttering, “Oh my God, oh my God, oh my God, oh my God.” Running my hands through my hair, yanking hard on it, I’m trying to settle my nerves about Jamieson. Unfortunately, all it does is make me want to have him pulling it instead. I have no idea how long they all planned to stay, as I really didn’t talk to Circe about it, but from the baggage, it seems like they all came pretty light.

Like it matters. They have tons of money. They can buy new clothes and trash it all the same day without losing a second of sleep over it. And if I want to know their plans, I need to stop hiding out in here like a pussy. Groaning at the pussy I’ve been, I push the door open and walk back in where they’re all relaxing around the room. All but him. As soon as I walk back in, his eyes lock on me, heated and soulful. I’m wondering what he’s thinking, but at the same time, I’m afraid to hear the truth of it. Deciding my big girl panties—which I didn’t wear today—need to be hiked the fuck up, I hold my head high and give him the same stern look back. “I hope you weren’t looking for a marriage proposal or anything, Crown. I’m not about to ask to keep you.” Taken aback, smirking behind that beard, Jamieson’s eyes showcase his mirth at my comment. “Katana, nothing of the sort crossed my mind. We already have one wedding to plan.” He motions to Circe and Wyatt. “And a second runnerup in the making.” Rolling his eyes, he then looks at his beaming sister. Risen isn’t quite as pleased. “Really? Whiskey, we talked about this on the way here. China is not getting a ring off me for a very long fucking time,” Risen pipes up, grinning. But I can see the truth of it. That big tough bastard is holding out until she’s ready to crack from all the

torment he’ll put her through. Pinching his arm, China chirps, “If I said yes to you, which I probably won’t. Until you can beat me on the track, there’s no one holding this girl hostage, Mr. Mason.” I swear my head is spinning from all the fucking antics I see in my future. This is going to be a shitshow. The staff at Amanemu have no idea what they’re up against with this family and mine in the same building. Clearing my head of that thought, I look at my watch. It’s four-fifteen. Muki should be here any minute with Kano, Miori, and Hiro. The choppers should be ready to go shortly after and I can relax. I need to relax. This shit is stressful. Walking over to the only blank chair in the joint, Jamieson follows me. I hold up a hand to him. “Oh no you don’t. I don’t need question period to start yet. You want to ask me questions you make an appointment. I’m not ready for you at all, Mr. Crown.” Sitting down, picking up one of the newer entertainment magazines, I try to ignore him. His shadow looms. He’s not saying a word, but it’s like a solar eclipse as he blocks out the sun. Finally exasperated, pulling out earphones from my bag, I flip through the pages of a magazine to find anything of interest. “Carli,” he says quietly. “Look, we’re going to —”

“Yeah, Jamieson, we are. But not now, not here, and not with all of them around. Understood, dearie? Now please, I’m gonna bust out into tears if you make me deal with this right now.” Inserting the buds, tuning in to one of my favorite playlists, I drown out the room. Nodding his head, he man pouts as he strides over to the other side of the room. Thankfully, it worked. The inevitable has been delayed. I don’t want to be a harbinger of unhappiness, but I don’t have the patience for his broodiness today.

Circe “If I thought the air was thick with tension with the two of us, ohhh, my big brother is in for a typhoon of trouble. This shit is about to be cray cray.” China, in her odd way, is right. I’m watching my best friend try to shut out the world. I’ve never seen Carli like this. And him? Oh, I may not know Jamieson well, but history has shown what one Crown is like, the rest seem to all be. Cut from the same Crown. Possessive, dangerously loyal, drunk on love, and

family oriented to the point of scary. Talking low, Risen cuts into our conversation. “What do you mean? Those two are not as bad as we were, China. And I’ll prove it.” Pulling out his phone, he starts to dial. Smacking her hand over the screen before he can hit send, China hops up. “Oh, no you don’t. No calling her. How do men not see when to pump the brakes?” Plunking herself across his legs, she fights for the phone, kissing him for distraction. The distraction eventually turns to moans and murmurs. Turning away from their TMI, I look over at Wyatt, my Casper, my epically crazy love interest. His smile is miles wide, and he knows the truth. We were all a fucking mess, and still are. “Don’t you start, Mister. This is fucked up enough without you deciding you need to get your funk on. Dr. Callie’s instructions were explicit, no sex for at least another week.” “No, Siren, that’s not true. It was no intercourse. Nothing was said about me tonguing that sweet—” Rising up fast, breaking away from Risen, China shouts out, “Yeah, no. You are not about to say that right now, Casper. Keep that trap shut.” “But—” “No.” “There’s no buts, Ghostman. I’m not taking a flight across the world to hear how you get your

jollies with my sister-in-law to be. No, Casper. No.” Laughs are heard from the boys as they try to now outdo each other in antics to piss us off. I walk over to Carli. She’s so quiet, which is horribly out of character. “Car?” Looking up from the magazine she was trying to engross herself in, she pulls out her headphones. I can hear the loud music squealing. “Yeah, lover? What’s up?” “You okay? I mean, I know it’s a big surprise to see all of us here, but you looked off, even when you just saw it was me. You’d tell me if there were problems, right?” Waving me off, acting like it’s nothing, her smile is the fakest I’ve ever seen. “I’m good. Really. Once the choppers are ready, and my psycho sisters get here with their bodyguards, we’ll take off. Easy peasy. All will be fantastic.” “Are you trying to convince me, or you?” I ask. She quirks her eyebrow. “A bit of both, I guess. It’s just so—” “Much?” “Yeah.” Seeing she’s close to cracking, I lean in to give her a hug. “I love you. You know that, right?” “Of course. But if that Crown comes over here again, like he looks to be attempting right now,

I’m hanging his balls like fuzzy dice from the chopper’s rearview mirror.” Hugging me back tightly, I can feel when she’s ready to let go. And by let go, I mean the floodgates will open up and she’ll attempt murder on one Jamieson Crown. “I’ll keep him at a distance for today. But tomorrow, all bets are off. I can’t hold him back indefinitely.” “Yeah, that I know. I have to sing his tune soon. I’m just afraid to do it.” “Kaori!” “Jesus, my sisters are here. Get ready.” As I step back, Carli sets the magazine down, places her earbuds back in her bag, and rises out of the chair. Walking in are two, drop dead gorgeous, runway model perfect, Dolce and Gabbana specimens. On their heels are what I assume are their bodyguards. Though the one looks more interested in his charge than just that of employer / employee. “Kaori, who are all these people? And why the fuck was I dragged away from a fitting? I had plans to go out tonight at Shishu with friends, and the Incredible Bulk here tells me we’re going back to Amanemu. Why?” “Miori, I’m still head of this house, and you’ll do as you’re told.” Then Carli flips to Japanese in essence, shouting to her sister. Miori is defiant looking, whereas Kano seems more interested in

checking us all out. She steps over to me. “Hey, I’m Kano. You have to be Circe. Kaori has told us all about you.” Turning her head, she shouts over her shoulder in English. “Miori, she’s going to win, so just give up.” Turning back to me with a sweet smile, she says, “Sorry about that. We’re a pretty heated bunch.” “No worries. You haven’t seen this bunch lose their shit yet. Trust me, you have nothing on the Crowns.” Quirking her head, looking around me, her eyes bug out. Blinking a few times, she grins wildly. Her expression when she comes back to me is gleeful and fangirlish. “That’s them, isn’t it?” “Who?” “Like, Casper, Doll, and Whiskey, right? Holy shit!” She’s so excited, I think she might pee. “Holy shit, holy shit, holy shit! I can’t believe it!” Stepping around me like I’m a traffic cone, she traipses straight to Casper first. “When I saw your crash on TV, you know the narrow miss one with the guy on the track? I was like, whoa! Then everything that’s happened to you all…” She stares up at Whiskey, like he’s a monument to beauty. “I feel horrible for you, really. I mean, our mom died a long time ago because of rival shit, but that’s in the past. And with Dad just dying, and Kaori taking over, it’s been chaotic. But you! Oh my God, you!” Walking up to China, she hugs her around the

middle. I swear Kano’s about to explode. “Seeing you race is so awesome. Like, awesome, awesome. To see a girl like you doing so much for the sport, it’s amazing. Really, just amazing. I like bikes. Maybe we can go for a ride—” “Kano! Cool your fucking jets, woman.” Miori, her twin, shouts across the room. Closing her mouth, relaxing to excitable, yet controlled, Kano nervously giggles and steps away. Walking back over to Carli, I look at the others. I can’t help but laugh, because it’s funny as fuck. Their expressions are more shell shocked than anything. “Oh, I’m keeping her,” I say between giggles. Wyatt slaps my ass. “Be good, Siren.” He doesn’t mean it, but it’s nice to see his lightheartedness. “Jesus, that was some first class spewage,” China quips off, flopping down on Risen again. “I feel sullied. I need a drink,” Jamieson says as he heads off to the vending machine in the corner. Watching the three sisters interact, in Japanese, no less, is comical. I don’t know how much longer Carli is going to keep her shit together, because she looks ready to lose it any moment now. Looking out the window, I not only see, but hear two helicopters landing. “Thank fuck,” Wyatt whispers in my ear. “I

want to get to this place and strip you naked. I even brought you toys.” “When the hell did you have time to buy toys? You just left the hospital?” “I have ways. Even you can’t know all my secrets.” Nipping my ear, I lean into his chest. “You used Dr. Callie, didn’t you?” He steps back and smirks, giving me that dimple grin. “I will take it to my grave, Siren.” “You are incorrigible.” “Yep,” he says, popping the ‘p.’ He doesn’t smack my ass this time, but instead, he grips it tightly. This is going to be a long few days, weeks, or even hours as I try to avoid him. Dr. Callie gave me instructions, and I’ll do everything I can to keep his ass at a distance. “Carli,” I call out, loud enough for her to hear me over her sister’s high-pitched yelling. “Yeah?” “Those the things we’re waiting on?” I point outside. She smiles. “’Bout damn time.”

Jamieson We landed about an hour ago at the hotel, as Carli called it. Her overly excited sister that sat beside me, drooling with anticipation, asking a million questions, called it a hotel. I don’t believe either of them. It’s a resort. Abracadabra, or whatever it was she called it, is spectacular. It’s set on the edge of a lake, overlooking mountain passes. Gorgeous terrain, that if it were snow covered, I’d be on in seconds, and a building I’d kill for. It’s phenomenal. This is the best scenario I could have dreamed

up on the way here. Boarding the plane from LA, I thought for sure we’d be stuck in the concrete jungle of Osaka, just like where we left. But I’m surprised. Carli may not have done this with me in mind, or on purpose, but she’s given me a place to be comfortable. And when she said she was having the building cleared, she wasn’t kidding. Only the staff are seen, not one guest is in the halls as I check out the space, and no one seems to care that we’re the only people here. I wonder how often they do this? I mean, clear it out on a whim. Heading out after a long cock attitude adjusting shower, I’m going to dinner. Everyone ‘suggested’ we have a ‘get to know’ each other before we settle in for sleep. Honestly, I’m not tired, I’m wired. Carli and I need to talk. She seemed ready to fall to tears in the airport when we talked. And her temper with her sisters was noticeable, even in another language. She’s off. Carli is always in control, and this is far from controlled. Months have passed since I saw her, and she’s as beautiful as ever. I don’t think there’s anything that could change my mind about her. I’m fucking stuck on her. It’s never happened before. I doubt it could happen again. The shit part about it, is that Wyatt and China see it. They see the dangerous position I’m in. I

want to bend her over my knee and smack the attitude out of her, but at the same time, I want to make her come to me. To want me. I know we have a fire between us. We’re like napalm and Greek fire. Anything in the area will be burnt to the ground. And anyone who dares to get in the way, watch out, because I’ll burn it all down to get to her. Then there’s the other piece to the puzzle. The pregnancy. The last thing I want her thinking is that I only want her for the child. Fuck, I’ve been doing my best to find reasons to fly to Japan and find her before the news of it. My career doesn’t support warm weather. I couldn’t even find a supplier here that I ‘had to’ visit. Then, shocked into the thought of a child, I bet she thinks I’m only here out of duty. Circe and China had to hold me back from chartering another plane. As soon as it left China’s mouth, I ran out of that hospital room, flying down the stairs. I had to catch my breath. So yeah, I’m excited. I’m elated. I’m afraid. Damn, I’m a fucking wreck. Walking into the dining room, the understated opulence of it floors me. The room is altogether different from Shutters, where I just left, and even my house in Colorado has nothing on this. Floor to ceiling open walls that face the lake, light wood

tables and chairs, soft muted colors everywhere. It’s inviting. Even the room asks you to relax. I expect Buddhist monks to bring us berries and twigs for dinner. Walking through the space, seeing my family and hers gathered on the porch, I saunter out. I’m the last to show it seems. “Glad you could join us, twenty minutes late,” her sister, with the matching, beautiful long hair, clips off. “Had to shake out the cobwebs.” I grab a chair beside Risen, and across from Carli. “And by cobwebs, I mean thoughts of you.” She raises her eyebrow and grins. “I have spare toys if you need to feel fuller. Or, I’m sure a maid would help you relieve some stress.” “No. I have a hand and great memories to keep me entertained.” Slightly shocked by my comment, Carli clears her throat before looking away. She addresses the room. “I’d like to make sure we all know who each other are.” Thankfully, everyone quiets as she starts, so I don’t have to kill anyone. “At the end is Wyatt, or better known as Casper. Beside him…” Looking at Circe, she hops out of her chair and screeches. “Holy fuck! When did that happen?” Pulling her hand off the table, Circe giggles. “What?” “What? The fucking skating rink on your

finger! Casper, you promised me you wouldn’t propose to her until you had me on FaceTime. What the shit!” She’s excited, but in a ‘I want to hug my friend, not kill her’ way. Somehow, I’m starting to see the difference. Stomping toward Circe, the two hug, jumping up and down like teenagers. Speaking up over the squeals, Risen turns to my sister. “Jesus. If you do that, China, with your girls, I swear to fuck I’ll never propose.” “Yes, you will. Harlow will have you afraid for your life if you hold out too long. You know it.” Turning to kiss him, I smack Risen on the back of the head. “Don’t fucking think about it right now, buddy. I’ll lose it if you two start.” “Got it. No sex on the chair,” he says, laughing. “I’ll be good during dinner. After that—” “I don’t need to know, Ri. I don’t need to know. Baby sister, remember?” Nodding, I push China’s seat over slightly. Risen laughs. “Keep your distance, woman.” China pouts. “Thanks, killjoy. Remind me to cock block you, too.” From the other side of the table, Carli’s sister, who looks bored, speaks up as she taps away on her phone. “Can we get on with it? I’m hungry, bored, and ready to hide in my room until my lovely big sister lets me out of my gilded cage.”

“Aren’t you a gem.” Snapping sugary sweet, China turns to Miori. I see this going south soon. “Miori, right?” As she nods with a sarcastic smile, Risen and I watch the interaction. Our ‘let’s get to know each other’ is about to be ‘who’s more fearless and insane?’ Normally, I’d say that we’d win, but the mafia family might give us a run for our money. “China, back it down. We’re guests,” I tell her, hoping it’ll cool the situation. Staring across the table at Miori, it’s easy to see they’re both spoiling for a fight. China might give it to her. Not looking at me, not taking her gaze from Miori, she says, “James, she’s rude. I don’t like rude.” Rising out of the chair, China faces off with the sister. “Why don’t we have some fun?” “Yeah…no. One arrest should be your limit per year, Princess.” Risen pipes up, pulling her back to his lap. “Accept her rudeness. Be a good girl for once.” Flopping into his lap, she laughs darkly. “Now both of you are killjoys.” Laughing at her, I don’t even answer. Turning my attention back to the two at the end still fawning over the ring, I take in the demeanor of the others that are here. Kano, the crazy, sweet twin sister, is watching Circe and Carli like they’re the only souls here. Engrossed in their conversation, she’s absorbing it all. Miori, of course, is still

eyeballing China between posts on her social sites, but she seems to have cooled a bit. The twins’ bodyguards are silent and like statues in the corner, and the one is more interested in his fingernail contents than the girls, whereas the other is watching Kano’s every move. He’s hung the fuck up on her. Kato, the older gentleman that joined us, isn’t what he seems. I don’t trust him. There’s something off about him. He’s shifty. The way he watches Carli, keeping track of her, but then looking sidelong at Miori, tells me something is amiss. I don’t get it yet, with this jetlagged brain, but I will. As the girls finally break apart, and Carli returns to her seat, things begin to settle down. Finishing her introductions, pushing the last bit of the formal shit out, dinner arrives. To be honest, I think we were all pretty gungho to eat. We all shut up pretty fast and didn’t say another thing during the meal. I didn’t say another thing to Carli until dinner was over, but my mind never quit asking questions. I’ll get the answers soon, though. Soon.

Carli Circe is getting married, and Wyatt is beaming. She’s insanely happy, and I missed it all. Fuck. I wanted to be in LA to see and experience her joy firsthand. Nothing is worse than watching the best shot during the playoffs on replay. I just watched the rerun. You can’t imagine the pain of being late to the party. Awful. I never thought it would affect me so much, but it did. It actually screwed up my appetite. I

mean, shit! The kitchen made our favorite foods and I only nibbled. And on top of that, I knew that Jamieson was eyeballing me every chance he got. He was damn near silent eating his Kobe steak. And even my sister, Miori, after her verbal toss up with China, didn’t try to stir up anything further during dinner. Thankfully, the conversations were minimal as we filled our bellies. Well, I guess I’m filling two. I haven’t started to feel like I’m carrying another human being, but I can’t deny it. The doctor’s checked at least three times because I made them, so it’s obviously true. And seeing the cause of my current situation sitting across from me at dinner, didn’t do anything for my sexual urges. My overdrive button has been stuck on rabbit speed. I’d love nothing more than to reach across the table, plant my hands in that dusky hair of his, and make him break me. I’d lay in the middle of his Kobe steak and grin gleefully as everyone watched. But, I’m getting ahead of myself. He’s only here because I’m pregnant. I’m sure he wanted to see it for himself. He’s probably thinking of how to clear out of here and hit a mountain to find free pussy. Someone who’s not carrying his child. The big surprise of the night was Kato, offering up evil eye shots to almost every Crown in attendance, except for China. Color me confused. For some reason, he hung from her words, gave

acknowledgements to her questions, and even smiled the odd time. Actually smiled. I thought Kato had only intense scowls, even more intense gazes, and dark glares in his facial expressions. Huh. Thing is, I don’t have enough energy to fight my sister’s, figure out Kato, and deal with Jamieson. I’m damn tired. Pushing my plate aside, I announce quite loudly, “I’m bushed, guys. I need to sleep.” Rising to leave, giving Circe a hug goodnight, I start toward the hallway, in the hopes I’m not followed. I don’t have the power to explain, argue, or accept apologies right now. Clearing the room in less strides than it takes to get to the front of a Starbucks line, I hit the stone floor of the hall. Only, I’m not the only one. “Carli,” his deep manly voice calls out. “Ya know, I was hoping to sleep. I wanted to avoid all the treacherous conversation that’s brewing in that head of yours for at least…oh, say, six hours? What do ya say, big fella? Give a girl a break for a bit of shut eye?” I don’t turn his way. In fact, I’ve kept walking the whole time toward my suite. “Carli, look, we need to talk. You can’t avoid me in a hotel with no guests. Sooner or later, we have to see each other and talk about this.” “Oh, I’m sure there’s ways I can, but I doubt

you’ll let me. I have this feeling you’ll be camped outside my door, like you’re waiting to buy tickets to a Justin Bieber concert.” Stepping up my game, I speed up a touch quicker to distance myself. “You loved his last show, didn’t you? Come on, admit it. His rendition of “Stairway to Heaven” with only a flute and a paperclip brought you to tears.” “Where do you come up with this shit?” Moving up beside me, he gently takes my arm. “Jesus, Carli, slow down.” Stopping, I don’t dare turn to face him. I do that, and I might as well kiss my sleep bye-bye. I won’t get to sleep, he won’t get to sleep, and the only thing that might is the bean in my body. “Carli, we have to talk at some point.” I laugh. “I swear I saw this moment a hundred times over the past few months. You’d say something like, ‘Are you sure it’s mine?’ or ‘Did you consider an abortion?’ And the ever popular, ‘Ah, well, um and oh’ conversation.” I turn to face him, because I think my sarcasm is strong right now, and I can probably win this battle. Shit. Nope, shouldn’t have done that. It’s like looking the tiger in the eye., I should have just ran instead. That was dumb, Carli. Thumbing his fingers along my jaw, holding my gaze with his, he smiles. “It’s good to see you, Katana.” “Not like it matters, but why don’t you just tell

me all the things I’m expecting and get it over with? I’ll return to my room, cry a tiny bit because of these freakin’ hormones and the stressful day, then you can sit in yours and jerk off or fuck a cleaning girl. The choice is yours, and think of it as Vegas. What happens in Japan, stays in Japan.” Staying quiet, listening to my verbal diarrhea, Jamieson just watches me without a sound. Moving a few stray hairs from my face, he tucks them behind my ear, then lightly pulls on my hair. I moan. It sounds awful that I fall for his moves so easily, and even to my own ears, it’s silly, but my body is easily swayed. “Carli, I missed you. I have no intention of taking anything to bed but you, and I’ve jerked off so much lately, my left hand has strengthened considerably. Wanna see?” he jokes. Really? He jokes? As his hands roams through my hair, across my shoulder and down my arm, I’m finding it hard to keep a clear head. I’m falling prey to him, and he more or less blinked. I try to gather the last shreds of my strength. “You don’t have to pretend. I get it, you have needs. Go play with something adorable. Tap the shit out of someone other than my sisters. You don’t need permission from me, Crown. Have at it.” His once kidding look is strong, serious, and hard. “Katana, you don’t get it. It’s been a long few

months without you. I haven’t been with anyone else. And all I’ve tried to figure out is how to get here, and get you into my bed.” I’m listening, but not. It’s like the words he’s saying are being spoken under water. “Don’t let me stop you from hunting someone down.” He scowls, which is something he does so well. “You’re not listening, are you, Carli?” “If you mean, I hear the wah wah wah of the Peanuts teacher, then yeah. But if you mean actual syllables and consonants, no.” Jamieson stares at me, not speaking. No grunting or growling, no awkward expressions that tell me what he’s thinking. Nothing at all. “Okay, so we’re playing the concentration game now? I won’t blink. I should tell you, I’m amazing at this, Jamieson.” Still nothing. Nine. Eight. Seven, six, and all the way to two, I count before giving in and saying something. “Are you kidding me? Come on!” I push on his chest, which, of course, doesn’t even make him budge. I’m totally annoyed he’s being silent. “Will you listen now, Carli?” Exasperated, I slouch as I blow out a heavy breath. “Fine. Tell me what you want to. But don’t think my attention will be any better than it was

before. You’re still clothed.” “And so are you. Putting a red mark on your ass would be perfect right now. Give me a touch more sass, Carli, and you’ll learn how bad I’m holding off.” I’m sure my eyes are bugging out, but it’s hard to deny I wouldn’t love that. “Okay, you got me there.” Encroaching my space, causing me to back up, I hit the wall beside my door. “I missed you. Let’s not talk of babies and such. Not because I don’t care, but because I’ve thought of nothing but stripping you down and licking you dry for months straight. Awake and asleep, you’ve arrested my thoughts.” With shallow breaths, I think of all the times I needed Jai, or the new toy, of which I nicknamed Whiskey for clarity, so that I could clear him out of my overexcited, erotic dream state of mind. “Did you think of me?” Bending, kissing my jaw, the heated trails he leaves entices my skin to shiver. “Yes,” I pant. With his bulk blocking me, creating a warm core to wrap myself up in, I lean into his touch. “Did you come and imagine it being me? My tongue licking you, my fingers deep inside of you, my cock aching to fill you up? Are you wet now?” Fuck yes! “More than I should be.”

Running a hand down my side, he grasps me in a way that is rough, but amazing. My body is betraying me, falling into him like putty. Gathering my strength, ignoring his well-placed hands, I croak, “We have to talk. This is great…like, so great.” I’m trying to think as he plies my sexual urges to the forefront. “Jamieson, we have to talk.” “Not now, Carli. Right now, you need to push the keycard in and open this door so I can open your legs.” “Jamieson.” “Carli,” he growls. I can’t focus when he growls. Fuck it. “Come here.” Tunneling my fingers through the hair at the back of his neck, I drag him down to me. I’m starved. And as his tongue touches mine, electricity shoots out of every nerve in my body. I can’t think of anything I’d rather do than this. After months of thinking of Jamieson, him being here, me mad he’s here, and thinking he only came for a child, I don’t care. I’m taking what I want because I’m allowed. Grabbing my card out and slipping it through the slot, the green light flashes. Pulling the door open, backing me through the door, Jamieson closes it behind us. And as we fall into each other like we have before—hot, heavy, and so intense that it’s hard to see straight—he pulls away long enough to say, “Do you care about this outfit?”

“What?” “Did a so and some shit design it for you? ’Cause I’m about to tear it to shreds. And if you don’t want me to, you best say it now.” Lifting his shirt above his head, he then unbuckles his belt. Jamieson stands in front of me, naked, with his proud as a peacock—no pun intended—staring me in the face. Drawing my eyes up to his and away from the instrument of my destruction, I say, “No, it’s not special in the least.” “Good.” Pulling the edge, the threads shriek their disapproval as it comes apart. Once I step out of the leg holes, Jamieson tosses it to the side, inspecting me. Honestly, not much was left to the imagination once the jumper was gone. Now I’m standing with only my dignity and 3M tape tit holders. Looking at me sideways, grinning like a fool, I smile, knowing why he’s paused. “What is it now, Mr. Crown?” “You’ve been naked under this the whole time?” “Of course. Lines would look silly.” Without invitation, reaching down to my awaiting pussy, he deftly moves to my core. Touching the edge of my joy toy, Jamieson smirks. Hitting the button on the top of it, starting the

little fucker up, Jamieson grins. “This is interesting. You weren’t lying, were you?” “Would it gain me any points if I lied? And by the way, I got off as you sat across from me at the table. I’m getting better at hiding my release in public.” “I’ll have to try that out later. But,” he presses the button to increase the vibration, “if you don’t scream, I wasn’t doing it right. And a fucking toy is no replacement for the real thing.” “Damn straight, Mr. Crown.” I shudder at a particularly joyous contact moment. “I ah…I need you to show me your talents again. I seem to have forgotten how good you are.” Dragging a finger past lil’ Whiskey causes deeper pressure within. “What about the baby?” And that’s when shit shut down in the factory of love. Stepping back from Jamieson, I flick the button on my lil’ J to halt its procession before grabbing Jamieson’s discarded clothing. “Carli?” Tsking him with a waved finger, a talk to the hand move, and a tilted gaze, I am most definitely disappointed now. Traipsing to the patio door where it’s wide open, I smile evilly. “Happiness is about to be found in your hand again, Mr. Crown.” I toss his clothes into the breeze. “Fetch.” “Carli. Why’d you—” “Nope. Nope. No.”

“But what’d—” “Nope. Not happening, Jamieson.” Striding to the hallway door, holding it open and standing behind it, I wait for Jamieson to get the hint. “You want me to leave here naked?” “Yep.” “You sure? Because you know my keycard went with my pants, so at some point, I have to ask staff to open my door for me as they check out my junk.” “Yep. I’m good with that.” Jamieson straightens his spine. With a wink, he walks right past me, proud and perfect. “I’ll see you in the morning, Katana. And we’ll have that talk.” As I’m closing the door, I laugh at the circumstances. “Goodbye, Felicia.” With a resounding click, and the echo of his feet walking slowly down the hall, the best part of tonight is the sound of a screaming maid. My day is fulfilled. Chaos has done its job once more.

Carli This morning, after a long, yet rewarding shower, I called Circe’s room. She’d asked me why Jamieson was naked and scaring the staff, and why she had to be scarred for life after seeing his minion, and why we were fighting in the first place. That last one should have been obvious. Male Crown. I knew she had a good night. Actually, the animals surrounding us in the forest knew she had a good night. She’d mentioned holding out on Wyatt, but as always, Crowns’ have their persuasive tactics

that can make you do just about anything. And Wyatt, from the kink she’s explained, could bend her like a pretzel and she’d ask how much further he wanted it. His funk is beyond fucked. She’s trying the persuasive tactics on me, but I told her I wasn’t feeling well, and that I wouldn’t be down for breakfast. It’s not totally a lie, but also not a truth either. I’m lying in bed, trying to erase all the fond memories of Jamieson’s wandering hands, alternating between shower, sticky self sex, and back to shower again. Jamieson showing up, reminding me that I’m about to be a parent and he’s the other half to the reason why sucks. Yeah, my life has been gradually stepping into the darker, seedier parts of the Yakuza underworld, but I’m getting a grip on it and dealing in my own way. Dealing with him and his sexiness will not be as easy. I shouldn’t have freaked out and told Circe. I should have kept my trap shut and dealt with it on my own. I’m good on my own, and I don’t need a man to make me complete. Stupid me. I’ll just have to deal now that he’s here, loving and despising it in equal measure. So back to why I’m hiding out. If I’m here enjoying my Jai and lil’ Whiskey, then I’m not having to face him and his ‘music.’ I already ordered in what I want for breakfast, and I can sequester myself until I figure out what to do. As

I’m rounding another silent orgasm, my doorbell rings. “Just a second,” I call out, a bit louder and shriller than intended. “And if your name is Jamieson fucking Crown, you can go away.” “It’s not. It’s Miori.” Miori? Why the hell would she be looking for me? “Give me a second.” Cranking the setting on both toys higher, the crest approaches with a vengeance. Pulling the pillow over my head, squealing into it, my happy ending explodes out of me. As I come down, turning off both toys, then setting them in my en suite, I toss on a silk housecoat and walk to the door. Clicking the lock and swinging it wide, I find Miori wearing only a housecoat like myself, looking uneasy. “Hey, Mi. What’s up?” “I’m so sorry, Kaori. Really, I am so, so sorry.” Stepping to the side, I see Kato hiding behind her, the silenced gun he’s holding visible. “Kaori. I hope we haven’t intruded?” Questioning what’s going on isn’t necessary. Just figuring out how to survive it will be. Knowing my smart mouth normally gets me into trouble, maybe this once I’ll dial it down a smidge. Maybe not.

He’s expecting it anyway. I address Kato. “I was actually thinking of getting dressed and doing the same thing. Because, you know, holding people at gunpoint as they stand in bathrobes is normal in our line of work. Won’t you come in. Make yourself at home.” Stepping to the side allows Kato, Miori, Hiro, Kano, and a man I don’t know to pass. “Would you care for a cup of kiss my ass, Jiji?” He looks at me with a flat expression. “Oh, Kaori, your mouth is your downfall.” Motioning for my sisters to take seats on the couch, Kato walks over. “Have a seat, Kaori. We need to change some of your arrangements.” “I have the feeling you don’t mean with flowers.” Looking at my sisters seeming horribly nervous, I keep up the sarcasm. “You don’t mean with flowers, right?” Walking toward an empty chair, he taps his gun on the table. “You may not like the arrangements for the flowers, unless you like funerals.” I bypass that remark. “Kato, I’m frustrated. I’m seriously wondering what’s going on, and I’m a hungry pregnant lady. Tell me what you’d like and let’s get on with our lives.” Sitting in the chair, neatly crossing his legs, Kato places the gun on his knee, leaving it pointed toward my frightened sisters. “That’s the point. I

want the family business. It’s only yours because of my lackluster, imaginative brother.” He grinds his teeth. “No more. I’m taking what is mine.” I shrug my shoulders and shake my head. “You actually think I want this life? You think I asked to come here? Are you kidding me? I wanted to stay in the states. I wanted the life I’d built as Carli, but no, Uncle. You dragged me back. Why? If you wanted this, why not take it and forget I ever existed?” His tight smile is completely fake. “My brother’s will and my standing in the clan would have made it dishonorable to take that which was mine by force. But, if you offer it willingly, turning it over to me, I’ll leave you alone. You can go back to your precious American life.” His disdain and disgust is visible as he spews the words. “Then toss me a pen, a knife, or a fucking gun to get on with it. If I have to sign it over I will, as long as you leave us alone. We’re your nieces. You didn’t need to come at us with a gun pointed. You just had to ask.” I have the feeling there’s more to it than this. Otherwise, he could have done this while I was in LA, as he shadowed me for weeks. He smirks. Shit, I knew there was more to it. Why do I always have to ask the dumb questions? Raising the gun, he swings it toward me. “Be

careful what you ask for, Niece. You may not like the results.” “True. I don’t like abuse on puppies, children, or picnics without coleslaw, but I’ll repeat, I didn’t ask for this.” With another ring of the doorbell, I’m hoping to fuck it’s not one of the Crown’s. The staff he’ll ignore, acting like this is just a family meeting, but one of the Crown’s, he’ll use them as hostage and bait against what he intends to inflict. When no one rises to get the door, I look at the statuesque pair of bodyguards slash muscle. “Are you going to get that, or should I?” I ask. Looking at my uncle, then each other with vacant stares, I rise off the bed and walk over to the sentry. Looking through the peephole, it’s not staff with my breakfast. “I’m a little tied up right now. Can we talk later?” I ask through the door. “Look, I was an ass last night. A total fucking dick, and I need to explain it to you. Just let me in, Katana.” “I’m sorry. No speaka Spanish.” “Carli, open the door. I promise I’ll sit on my side of the room…you know, where you tossed my clothes? And you can sit on yours.” Boy, does he have that wrong right now. “Yeah, right now is not a good time. Come back with your Girl Scout cookies—”

“Don’t be rude,” my uncle says. Turning to look at him, I see mirth, devious planning, and further damage in his gaze. “Open the door, Kaori. Let the man apologize.” “That’s a hard pass. I’d rather not add to your body count, Jiji.” Lifting the gun, flicking it toward my sisters, he shoots Kano. Hitting her in the leg, she screams out. Turning to her, Miori moves to help, but my uncle waves the gun. Looking at my little sister in pain, I want to rush to her side, but my uncle stops me. “Don’t move. Neither of you. Kano will be fine. It’s a flesh wound.” He looks back at me with sinister determination. “Now, Kaori I believe your guest shouldn’t be left waiting.” The sounds of Jamieson pounding on the door, shouting questions is unmistakable. On one hand, I’m glad the doors are thick or he’d have had it open and been shot in the process. On the other, I’m saddened that I’m dealing with this alone and he couldn’t be a hero. I always wanted a hero.

Jamieson Living in the mountains of Colorado, you recognize the sound of gunshot. Even with a silencer, its unmistakable. A gun was fired in Carli’s room. What the fuck is going on? Carli is trying to shy me away. Banging on the door with every bit of strength I own, the solid wood doesn’t budge. I want in there so bad, my insides are on fire. I’m livid that I’m helpless to do anything out here. It’s wrong. I need to know what’s going on.

Pounding harder and harder, the door is finally unlocked. Slipping through quickly, I nearly knock Carli down as I barrel through. “What the fuck is going on, Carli? I heard a gunshot.” Touching her arms, I check her out. I don’t see that she’s bleeding, and that’s good. Peering into her sitting area, I find there’s quite a party going on. There’s Hiro, one of the bodyguards I met the other day, her two sisters, a guy I haven’t met, and Kato, the guy who’s supposed to be Carli’s right-hand man with a heavy-duty gun in his hand. Kato is controlling this. I have the feeling this is a coup. On the couch, bleeding, is one of Carli’s sisters, Kano. Knowing now who was screaming and why, it’s awful, but in a tiny way, I feel better it’s not Carli. “So nice of you to join us, Jamieson.” Turning to Kato, the prick who has no right to address me as such, I sneer. I’m livid, but also cautious. He has the ability to knock us off before we can blink. “My name is Whiskey to friends. Mr. Crown to those who don’t know me, and only Jamieson to Carli. You, asshole, are no better than a piece of gum on my shoe shooting defenseless women.” He shrugs off my comment with a wave of the gun. “Very well. Have a seat. Join us for a while as we settle a family squabble.”

“It’s a bit more than a squabble, Uncle. Wouldn’t you say?” Carli snaps back, taking a seat on the edge of the bed. Well there’s a twist. He’s her uncle. I know my family was messy, but they’d never hurt another this way. This is fucked up. Looking at the girls, and especially Kano, I see the hole in her leg is oozing, but not flowing. No arteries were hit. Good. She won’t die on the couch as we figure out how to stop this. “So,” tapping the gun on his lap, “Where were we again? Oh. Yes. We’re talking about how you’ll turn over control to me.” Clearly frustrated and anxious to get to her sister, Carli speaks up. “Fine, it’s all yours. Are you carrying paperwork around that I can sign? Or is a notary ninja on the way here?” We’re sitting close enough that I can touch her hand. Gripping it, giving it a squeeze, I’m trying to warn her to cool the quips. She doesn’t need to egg him into killing all of us. I may not like it, but Kato has the upper hand. “Dear niece, it’s not that simple. I’m sure you understand that. There’s only one way out of the family.” Rising from the chair, he walks over, but stands just out of reach. Curling his upper lip, he shows his madness. “No one leaves.” Without warning, he points the gun at Carli. I react as fast as I can. Pushing her to the side,

tossing her off the bed, I hope to save her. With a sickening click, I hear her grunt out in pain as the bullet hits. Lying motionless on the floor, Carli doesn’t make a sound as Kato turns the gun on me. “Tsk, tsk, Mr. Crown. You just stay right there. You have no business in this family affair.” Even as he points it at my chest, I glare. “Fire away, you fuck. But make it count. I’d hate for you to miss.” I’ve learned over the years, living in the mountains, the cold can burn as harsh as fire. Wait until he finds out how cold I can be. If he misses, I’ll take his ass down. “Oh, I intend to.” Spinning toward Miori and Kano, he shoots again, this time, nearly hitting Miori. Thankfully, she reacted and pulled both her and Kano to the floor behind the table at their feet. Hitting the couch instead of her, it gives me a moment when his back is turned. Rising fast, I place an arm around his throat, and grab his gun hand in the other, wrenching his arm around. Still trying to fire, he shoots wildly. Hitting the floor and around the room, we dance for control. I’m larger. I have more weight behind me, and it’s not my first time brawling. This fucker’s going down, even if I have to go with him. Knowing the balcony doors are wide open, I work us toward that side. Still trying to control the gun, clipping off shot after shot, I finally gain the

upper hand. Wrapping my hand around the hilt, gripping the warm semiautomatic pistol, I twist it enough that he releases it. Pushing him away from me, pointing the gun at him, I take in the scene. Hiro, the big bastard, is on the floor where a stray bullet hit him in the head. The other asshole is hiding behind furniture, but he too didn’t escape unscathed. His wheezy breathing tells me he’s taken one to the chest. “Miori, Kano, are you two okay?” I ask. “Yeah.” Still hiding behind the coffee table, their heads pop up. “We’re okay. Kaori?” Looking over, she’s lying still on the floor, a small pool of red is pooling beside her body. “Check on her please, while I deal with this fucking piece of shit.” Rising off the floor, Miori runs over. I keep Kato in my sights. I’m not giving him another chance. “How is she?” “Breathing, but she’s losing a lot of blood. We need to get her help. Kano, too.” Pulling herself up, Kano sits on the edge of the chair and winces. “I’m fine. I’m just worried about her.” Pulling out her phone, I assume to call for help, Kano starts speaking in Japanese. I pull my attention back to the wretched man in front of me. “You tried to kill your own flesh and blood.” “You’d never understand this life. And your

American lifestyle is so soft, it sickens me. Kaori was just the same. Weak and soft, always wanting to make things better for the slaves, the dirty useless trash that work in our shops. She was never going to be a good Obayun. Never,” he shouts, spitting the words like venom. “Well, you’re right there. I don’t get your tradition and bullshit honor code, but there’s no honor in killing your family.” Closing her phone, Kano pipes up. “The police are on the way, and one of the choppers are fueling to take her to the hospital in Osaka.” “Thanks, Kano. How are you?” “I’ll be fine.” I turn to her sister. “Miori, has the bleeding stopped?” “I can’t stop it, but I’m trying to keep pressure on it.” “You don’t get it—” Kato starts. “You’re right, I don’t, and I don’t intend to. So you just stay there while we wait for the police.” Smiling darkly, moving forward, I raise the gun as Kato tries to advance on me. “Nope. You stay right there.” With a sinister smile, he takes another step. “You won’t do anything, Jamieson. Soft, weak, spineless sad sack. You’ll do nothing.” Clipping off a shot, straight out into the vacant air, it whizzes right by his ear. “Try me,” I say,

determined to show him that I have no compunction about him living or dying. “That was close, but,” he takes another step, “you still won’t do anything. I dare you, Jamieson.” Man, I really hate this guy. “One more step and I’ll show you how cold I can be, Kato. You shot the woman I love, and both she and my child could be dying right now. Do you think your life is worth more than theirs?” “I think that you’re too scared to take a life, that you won’t do what’s needed.” Tempting me, taunting me, he moves to step forward once more. So I shoot.

Jamieson Watching the act in slow motion, seeing the bullet, seeing the stain on his shirt and the shock on his face when he realized I had more balls than he gave me credit for, that was worth it in the end. Will I have nightmares about it at some point in my life? No. I feel at peace that his life was forfeit when he shot his own family with the intention to kill. As his body slumped to the floor, I knew it was over. Thankfully, they were now safe. Dropping the gun, I race to Carli’s side, skidding to

a stop on the floor. “Carli,” I say, touching her face. She doesn’t move. Feeling for her pulse on her neck, I notice it’s faint. “Miori, go wait for help. I’ve got her.” “Just keep your hand here,” she says. Placing my hand over the wound, Miori quickly runs off. Looking at Carli’s pallid color, I talk to her, hoping she hears me. “Hey, Katana. You can’t bug out, lady. Who the fuck is going to give me a hard time? No one. And you can’t train this child to do the same thing if you both die on me. So get your shit together.” Tears threaten the corners of my eyes. I can’t fathom the idea of her gone and taking our best chance at a wonderful future with her. “You know you have this fucked up way of getting under my skin, tossing my insides into knots and lighting a fire that I can’t bank.” Brushing stray hairs from her face, I kiss her cheek. “I would give up the snow for you. I’d live in stinky warm LA, just so you can have your bullshit quinoa salads and froufrou water systems. I’d even move here and cramp myself into a tiny apartment, being eyeballed as a giant. Just for you, Carli. Just for you. “You know I haven’t been with anyone since you left me. I couldn’t. I tried to get on with life, but none of the girls compare. You are one fucked up woman, and you messed me up. I’m wrecked, and only you can fix it. So you can’t go. Show me how stubborn you are by living.” Kissing her over

and over, telling her stupid shit, speaking about dumb antics I suspect she’ll pull me into in the future, I babble to keep her with me. When the medics come in, I don’t even notice them until one appears at my side. Ushering me away, I watch in a detached way as they work to save her life and our child. It may sound cruel, but if the baby dies and my Carli lives, I’ll live the rest of my life making it up to her. But she has to live for me to do that. Once they feel she’s stable, and Kano is situated, the medics move them out. Turning to Miori, they talk in Japanese. I watch, unable to understand. As they head out the door with her two sisters, she nods her approval as they’re whisked away. “They’re taking them to Osaka General. It’s a great facility. We should go tell your family what’s going on before we head out.” “Fuck. I forgot they don’t know what’s going on.” Normally, I’m more on top of that stuff. Rushing down the hall in the opposite direction of the medics, Miori talks somberly. “She’ll be okay. I don’t have to tell you my sister is as stubborn as a mule.” “You have that right.” I agree. “She’ll live, because to die would be to give in. Kaori never gives in.” Moving quickly down the hall, the two of us

quickly become silent. There’s no need to talk about her uncle or the other two men dead on the floor. They’re not important. All that matters is that her family is safe. Her sisters are in good hands. Stepping into the main hall, I find Circe alone at the table. As Miori walks off to deal with a call, I think of how to explain it in a way that we can leave quickly. “What’s going on?” Our faces must show stress, as her question is teeming with concern. “Carli and Kano were shot. They’re on their way to the hospital in Osaka. Where is everyone?” I ask. My mind swims with worry for Carli, but there’s nothing more I can do right now except hope for the best. “Wyatt’s in the room resting, and the other two went to check out the mountain trails.” Stepping up to me, she hugs me with her good arm. “I’ll go wake him up.” “No, you stay here. Miori and I are going to grab the other chopper. We’ll call you if there’s any change.” I turn to leave. “It’s best you stay away from the other wing of the building for a bit, though, Circe. There’ll be police all over it. And tell that ex-cop of my sisters to stay clear too.” “Yeah, got it. But don’t think Wyatt and China will stay here long. Expect us to be hot on your heels.” Coming over to where we are, Miori pockets

her phone. “The chopper is ready to go. We need to leave, Jamieson.” Moving away from Circe, heading out the door as quickly as I can, over my shoulder I yell, “I’ll let you know when I have news, Circe.” Striding away, Miori leads us out to the chopper pad where the waiting bird is running. Thinking about everything that’s going on, my thoughts are scattered, and yet succinct. I may not have thought through to the end of my life, but I’ve just figured out that Carli is the woman for me. Without her, I’d still be whoring my way through girls. And very, very alone. To lose another will absolutely crush me.

Jamieson What feels like days has only been hours. It’s been two hours, and I check my watch every minute. Sitting with Miori, the two of us have been awaiting news. Good news or bad, any news of any kind would be appreciated. We haven’t talked much, as anything we’d talk about is related to her, her sister, or her uncle and his hateful betrayal. Kano joined us after they’d stitched her up, but they said the drugs they gave her will make her sleepy, so we’d sent her back in the chopper to the resort to rest. I

knew what sending that bird back would do. It would give my family a way to join us. And stepping through the doors with determination and a million questions, leading the way is my little brother. “Any news?” Shaking my head, I blow out a frustrated breath. “Nothing yet. They took her, but no one has come out since.” “There’s cops everywhere in the hotel.” He’s obviously quite flustered. Before I can answer him, wrapping her arms around me, China hugs me tight. Not what I was expecting, but I appreciate it nonetheless. Pulling back, I give her a kiss on the top of her head. “Thanks for that, China.” “No problem. What’s going on? They took our passports, James. They promised we could have them back after we were questioned about everything. I think their broken English made it hard to understand. What the hell happened?” “Her uncle shot Carli and Kano.” “Who’s their uncle?” Looking at Miori, she turns back to me. “Am I missing something?” “Kato is our—was our uncle.” Seemingly keeping things together, Miori is amazingly stoic. She’s been dealing with this lifestyle of guns, death, and danger for far longer than she should have. She’s only China’s age, and I find her surprisingly

strong, commanding, and forceful. She impressed me. “And I thought our family was fucked up. You have uncles trying to kill you?” China clips off quite loudly. As everyone turns, they glare at Doll. Risen drags her close, tucking her into his chest. “Get over here, mouthpiece.” Murmuring into his shirt, he tries to stop her, but it doesn’t work. “What? I’m just saying, we’re messed up, but—” “Ms. Katana.” Appearing beside Miori, dressed in surgeon’s garb, is a stout young man. Bowing in a sign of respect, he immediately switches to Japanese. Rhyming off word after word quickly, it makes no sense to me or the others. As we wait patiently, watching, listening, taking in Miori’s every move, her expression darkens considerably as the doctor runs things down. With a few nods, he bows and walks back through the staff only doors. “What did he say, Miori? What’s wrong?” She looks me in the eye, tears slowly starting down her cheeks. “They said she’s stable.” “That’s good.” She shakes her head and wipes away a few tears, smudging her makeup. “He hit one of her kidneys and nicked the other. The one was too damaged so it had to be removed, and the other

won’t stop bleeding. They’ve tried stabilizing the bleed, but it’s not responding. She’s going to need a donor.” Without thought, I fall. Thankfully, it’s into a chair. I can’t be here again. Why is life so cruel that a second person in my life could die from my errors? Two people I’ve cared deeply for. One that’s becoming a part of me, stronger than I thought she could, and one that left me far too young. “James, she’ll be okay,” I hear Wyatt say. Of all the people here, he knows what’s going through my mind. How it was with Petra. How our lives changed forever when we lost her. How the world is taking the mickey out of me yet again. “Why? Why me? Why is it always me!” I’m yelling so loud, the room full of patrons waiting on news about their loved ones stop what they’re doing and stare. Softly speaking, bending low, Wyatt tries to calm me. Right now, my insides are tearing up. My heart is shattering again, and I have no words.

Kano If they thought I’d stay here, knowing my sister is out there fighting for her life, when I’m surrounded by police, the family, and various other insistent assholes, they were wrong. I’ve lived this life of never asking, never waiting for permission, and deciding my own fate. No one here will stop me from hobbling back to that hospital. I’d sent the chopper I rode in on back to the city with the Crown’s, but the second helo is due back anytime now. Texting Jacob, our full-time

pilot, I tell him to be ready. Doctors told me I wasn’t allowed a shower to wipe off the grime or the reminders of my uncle’s dishonor, but I sure as shit wasn’t being told I couldn’t change my clothes. Putting on pants would be a chore with the stitches and pain, so I opted for a dress. Gathering up the crutches, step-hopping back out to the landing pad, I start up the stairs. In theory, it looks awkward, but in reality, it’s a fucking bitch. I must have cursed every muscle movement as I hobbled up one riser at a time. Reaching the pad, Jacob was there waiting with the engine in slow motion. Gathering my crutches in quick motion, he picked me up. Carrying me to the awaiting ride was not quite what I expected, but I won’t turn it down. Once we’re settled with me in the back and him in the pilot’s chair, I turn on my headset. This is the smaller of our two choppers. It lacks the creature comforts of style and silence. This is less Airforce One and more crop duster, but who gives a crap if it gets me back to the hospital and to my sisters. What she did today was beyond heroic in my book. Kaori has only just come back into our lives. She doesn’t know us, or what our lives have been like. She put her life that she’d built on hold as soon as she was commanded to come back to Japan. Am I stupid? No. I know the reason as to why she came

back. They coerced her with our eminent nuptials. Father, or asshole who may not be named, had pimped us out to two men from the family. He would have rather wed us off for position than care for our futures. He had no idea what either of us wanted, who we were growing up to be, or what we wanted for our futures. That’s the shit stick of being born into the Ryu Yakuza family; our lives didn’t matter. As the chopper starts to rise, Jacob cuts in. “I don’t have to ask, do I, Kano?” “Nope. You don’t.” He’s known for a while what was happening within family. We all knew that something would eventually give. “Will you need assistance again?” “More than I want to admit,” I murmur. He laughs into the mouthpiece. “I’ll help you, Kano.” Lifting off the ground, we head toward Osaka. “We won’t be long. I already informed the hospital to expect us on the pad. Unless there’s an emergency chopper coming in, we’ll land without issue.” “You can just leave me with my crutches, I’ll get down to my sisters. It’ll just take me a bit of time. You don’t have to stick around.” “Think of it as Star Wars. I’ll piggyback you like Yoda.” “That’s a visual.” “Well, someone has to help you. You looked

pretty awkward hobbling up those stairs. I can just imagine down.” Pausing, controlling the helo, Jacob cuts back in. “Where’s Muki? Shouldn’t he be here helping?” Wow. I’ve been so worried about my sister that I forgot about what he did. When Hiro showed up with Taka, that big, stupid brute, I wondered why he wasn’t by Miori’s side. It made no sense to me. Obviously, it didn’t make sense to Muki either. He may have been a big oaf to others, but I found him sweet, attentive, a great friend, and a warm body when needed. What would you expect when he’s been my bodyguard for close to five years, and he’s only two years older? He may have been built like a brick shithouse, and toed the company line when necessary for me, but he wasn’t a yes man of my father or uncle. I appreciated how often he swayed their decisions regarding me. And Taka shot him point blank in my room. Walking in behind Muki, Taka raised the gun, fired, and didn’t even blink. They knew. They knew he wasn’t their tool. Wiping away a tear, I think about the situation that we’re in now. I need all the strength I can muster for my sister. Later, I can cry my eyes out for my friend, but when we land, she’s my only priority. Kaori couldn’t have flown all the way home just to die because of us.

Life couldn’t be that unfair, could it?

Miori It’s all my fault. Everything. All of it. I’m watching the Crown’s, seeing how concerned they are for my sister, how they care for each other, respect one another, and comfort Jamieson as he’s clearly dealing with an old pain. It’s hard to watch because I’m the cause of this. Me. No one else. Not Kano, not Uncle Kato—well, yeah, it is, but not fully. I was the catalyst to everything that’s happened since Kaori returned to Osaka.

Fuck. If my sister dies because of the deal I made with Chen, I don’t know if I can live with it. It is a great dishonor that I’ve created. My sister does not deserve this, and she didn’t ask for it. She tried to leave this life behind. If I’m the cause of her losing the baby or her life, I’ll never forgive myself.

Kano “Thank you. You were a big help,” I say to Jacob as we enter the elevator, descending toward the critical care floor. “I’d always help you, Kano. No matter what, you just need to ask.” Yeah, that’s what Muki used to say, too. Now he’s dead. Clearing my head of that reminder, I shake off the loss of him and concentrate on my family. When I rode over to the hospital with Kaori, the medics frantically poured over her vitals,

working to save her as I watched with a vacant disbelief. My sister is a rock. She’s strong, willful, and stubborn. If father hadn’t died, and if Uncle Kato hadn’t forced her hand, she’d still be living her life in the US, far from this mess. This never would have happened. “She’ll be okay,” I say, more to remind myself than requiring an answer from Jacob. “From what I’ve seen lately, and from what you’ve talked about over the weeks leading up to Kaori coming home, then yes, I believe she will be.” “You’ve listened?” “I probably shouldn’t have, but it’s hard to miss conversations in the headset.” I guess our conversations have never been private before, what with family and law enforcement bugging us. So why would I expect the pilot of a chopper to be any less intrusive? Growing quiet for a moment, looking at him in the elevator mirror, I see the guy who’s always been there, but never seen. He’s always just there. That’s the downfall of our lives. We’ve passed through without seeing those beneath us. It takes something like this to take notice. It may sound awfully conceited, but the truth hurts sometimes. We’ve been taught that our family is the strength of Japan, that those who are not Yakuza are not the powerful. We reign. Miori believes it

wholeheartedly. Uncle and Father molded her, worked her in a way that tainted her to their will. And I have been left alone to a point. My partial deafness has left me outside the inner circle for years. Because of that, I’m both thankful and disappointed. Just because I can’t hear them on one side, doesn’t make me an idiot. I know more than they think. He raises his eyes to look at me through the reflection in the mirrored wall. “I didn’t listen to Miori,” he says in flawless Japanese. His stare is electric as he tries to impart that he’s only listened in on me. I guess I’ve been just as bad as the rest, ignoring that which is outside my immediate bubble. Taking in Jacob, I have to admit, he’s a good-looking guy. His smile is sweet and his eyes are gentle. With a strong jaw, dark coffee skin that’s coated in freckles across his nose and cheeks, Jacob is a nice package. But not for now. Mentally cursing myself, I’m glad when the doors open. Hopping out, teetering slightly until I get a rhythm, Jacob stays back to catch me if I fall. Rounding the corner and entering the waiting area, I see everyone is clearly unhappy. “Mi,” I say to grab her attention. Looking up, her makeup is streaked and her eyes are puffy. Her usual contained self is breaking down. “What’s going on?” I ask in Japanese, taking a

seat in the chair beside her. Sniffling for a minute, she gathers her composure. “Why are you here? You’re supposed to be resting.” There was no way I was staying behind while I didn’t know the fate of my family. “Good luck with that, Ms. Katana. Kano wouldn’t take no for an answer,” Jacob says beside me. Looking around the room, the Crown’s don’t understand a word of what we’re saying, and that right now is okay with me. I have the feeling this private affair would be worse with more voices shouting. “She’s sustained heavy damage to her kidneys and they need a donor. They have her on support, but it’s only a matter of time.” “Kaori could die?” She nods, with fresh tears falling down her face. “Yes.” Attempting to rise back out of the chair, I lean on the crutches. “Then why are we sitting here? Let’s go tell the doctor we’ll do it. I will. I can’t believe you hadn’t already volunteered. Why haven’t you, Mi?” Standing, she puts a gentle hand on my shoulder. “It’s not that simple. We have to match.” She’s upset, but not enough it seems. At least not like I am. I shrug off her touch. “I don’t get you. Why wouldn’t we match, Miori? We’re her sisters.”

“No. We’re her half-sisters.” What? “Pardon? What did you say? It sounded like you said we’re not her sisters?” Miori and I face off. “We are, but we’re not. Our father is the same, our mothers are not.” I’m stewing for a fight. Why would she spring this on me now? Ignoring the fact that I’ve been lied to and she knows the truth, won’t help Kaori. So instead, I settle and try again to convince my sister we need to help. “Miori, she’s our sister. Blood full or half, it doesn’t matter. We need to help her.” Making my way to the do not enter sign, I bang with my crutch. Shortly after, a nurse arrives. “Yes? May I help you?” “I need to see the surgeon for Kaori Katana. Now.” Nodding curtly, but with respect, she closes the door and bounds off. “Kano, think about this.” “No, Miori, you think about this.” I try pleading with her. “She’s our sister. We have to save her. And if you can’t, I won’t say no.” “And if I lose two sisters, then what? What about me, Mono.” Miori is very formal, so for her to use my nickname, she’s clearly upset. Still not enough though, it seems. “Then we did our best.”

Jamieson For close to twenty minutes, the two sisters, along with some guy that came in with Kano, have been talking to the doctor and a second surgeon in Japanese. We’ve been sitting here, wondering, trying to figure out from their facial expressions what the hell is going on. None of us understand, and we’re all afraid to interrupt. So we wait. When they stop their yelling and hand throwing conversation, the guy walks over to me.

Extending his hand out, expecting a shake, I do. “Hey. I don’t know if you remember me. I’m Jacob, the guy who flew you out to the hotel.” “Thanks. I’m guessing you brought Kano back? Do you know what’s going on? There seems to be a lot of hustle now that they’re done talking.” There are nurses and doctors scrambling all around. “We’re waiting to see if they’re a match for a donor kidney. The sisters are arguing who will go under, but I have the feeling that Miori is the frontrunner after Kano’s gunshot wound today.” “I know how that goes. I was a donor once,” I tell him, thinking about Petra. Damn, if I was a match I’d do it again, no questions asked. “So when will they find out?” Motion from the girls as they argue further, presumably about who will do it, causes a ruckus in the room. “Excuse me,” Jacob says, pretty much jogging across the room. “Hey. How ya doin’, James?” Wyatt’s tentative, and with good reason. This dredges up old memories that I’d forgotten, or swept under the rug. “No, really, I’m not. But I’m trying.” Patting me on the shoulder with his good arm, I know this must be wearing on him too. Walking off to sit, Wyatt must find this exhausting. Two days out of the hospital and we’re globe hopping,

dealing with gunshots, further death, and more hospitals. Turning to Circe, I tell her to keep an eye on him. The last thing we need is Wyatt in a full-on depressive state, or worse. We may be a fucked up family, but we care deeply about each other. No matter how far I was, no matter where I was, I always thought about my siblings. Yeah, Mom and Dad made it hard to be close, but we’re family, and I’ll do anything for family. Walking over, Miori approaches me. “Jamieson, I know you care for her and your baby. I’ll do everything I can to save her, I promise. It’s the least I can do.” Bowing low, then raising her head up, I see the tears still pulling at the corners of her eyes. Without thought, I grab her for a hug, even though I’m not much of a hugger. I think we both need it. When she steps back, I see that same fire and determination in her eyes that I always see in Carli’s. She’s a strong woman. “Well, I better go. I promise to do as much as I can.” Turning toward the operating doors, confusion crests her face. “Where’s Kano?” I look around the space. She’s gone. “I’m sorry. She made me promise I’d help her,” Jacob admits, looking guilty as sin. Spewing words in Japanese again, pushing Jacob up against the wall, Miori is slapping the hell out of him, and he takes it without argument.

I can only handle watching it for so long before grabbing her, and holding her at bay. “Where’s Kano? Did she go with the surgeons?” “Yeah, man. She slipped through while you were talking with Miori. She’s gone to surgery. If they find her as a match, it’s done.” I’m not sure if I’m impressed, pissed, or scared shitless.

Carli Oh my God! What bus hit me? My tongue is fat, my mouth is dry like the morning after an all-night bender, and I’m so tired. Tired is too weak a word, but my mind is mush. I’d love to think up something more intelligent, but it ain’t happenin’. Ugh! Even the act of opening my eyes is awful. Who replaced my mascara with sandpaper? Arguing against the lids, I push with all my might. The light here is so fucking bright. “Good morning,” someone says in Japanese.

What the ever-loving fuck! Where the hell am I? Clearing the gauzy feel, I look around the space. White walls, stark metal cabinets, a hospital bed, and me, with monitors attached. Oh, yeah. Kato, Jamieson, Hiro, and my sisters! Stretching out my hand, I see the IV running down the back of it. The needle makes it hard to move. Lifting my other one, I’m thankful there’s nothing on it. I pull slowly and gently on the cover. The need to get out of this bed and see my sisters is paramount. Rushing to my side, a nurse halts my exit. “Whoa, whoa. Hold on, Ms. Katana. You can’t go anywhere. You’ve just woken up from major surgery. Let me get the doctor for you, he’ll explain it all.” She reaches over and presses the button on the side of the bed. “I bet you’d like some water.” Reaching the side table, pulling over a glass of water in a cheap Styrofoam cup, she raises the bed slightly, angling a straw toward my mouth. As soon as the cool liquid hits my throat, I want to rejoice. My oh my, that’s lovely. “How do you feel?” Clearing my throat, I try to speak. “Tired. Where are my sisters?” My voice sounds like it was dragged through nails and gravel.

“They’ve been here night and day, waiting.” Why does it sound like she’s talking about more than one day? Before I can ask, the doctor arrives. He’s no less than fifty, pretty short, with thinning hair and thick eyebrows behind wire rimmed glasses. “Ms. Katana, I’m glad you’re awake. Good to see you.” His smile is bright and sweet. “Let me tell you what’s gone on. You came in from an apparent gunshot wound. We rushed you into emergency and found extensive damage to your kidneys. You’d already lost too much blood and failure was occurring. We needed a donor.” He pauses, checking a few of my monitors that start to beep. “Your sisters were not a match, but thankfully, one of the people that were here when you came in was. You were really lucky, Ms. Katana.” The Crowns? One of the Crowns were a match? Who? “Baby?” His smile is wide. “The baby’s fine. You were both very lucky. Now, you need more rest.” Pushing something into the IV, I immediately feel groggy again. “Sleep. You’ll feel better soon.” ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ I don’t know if hours or days have passed, but I wake up feeling less like a B52 bomber is dragging me behind it on the runway. The monitors

still beep, the IV is still attached, and my body is sore, but it’s better. Looking around the room, I see that the nurse is different than the one I saw last. The room is dark, the lights are low, and the clock says eleven. Scrambling around on the bed, slowly, I search out the call button and depress it. “Can I help you?” “What day is it?” I ask. “Saturday afternoon, Miss. Are you hurting?” “No, not at all, but I could do with a bite.” She looks slightly shocked. “You feel up to food? Well, that’s a good sign. Let me see if I can wrangle up something soft. How’s Jell-O?” You have got to be kidding me. “The red kind, please.” Smirking, she leaves the room. “Of course you’d want the red.” I know the voice immediately. “Jamieson? Where are you?” Pushing the curtain back, lying in the bed beside me, his smile is… No beard? I didn’t think he could be more beautiful, but man, it’s amazing. Best thing I’ve seen all day. Or, at least, I think so. “You helped me?” He smiles and gives me a nod. “I can’t date the mother of my child if she dies.” Laughing to myself, I take in the change. His grin was beautiful through the beard, as you knew it

had to work itself through all that hair to be seen beaming as bright as it did. To see him smiling without a beard, is just...it’s extraordinary. “You saved me, but I don’t get it? You’d already helped your sister before, so why would they let you do it again?” “We didn’t let him do anything. He insisted once we knew your sisters weren’t matches. He was, thankfully,” the nurse states, bringing me a cute little cup of red goodness. I figure if Wyatt and Circe would wrestle after it, then it must not be that bad tasting. And right now, the ass end of skunk would be great. “So you saved me, just for a date?” “Maybe more, maybe less. But I couldn’t find out if you died now could I?” “Sound logic, Crown.” Spooning a mouthful of the red goo, I touch my tongue to it before trying it. The texture is odd, but decidedly, it’s not disgusting. Being as hungry as I am, though, it’s like heaven to a starved man. Mouthful after mouthful until the cup is empty, I try to scrape the edges to get even the smallest amounts out. “Would you like more?” the nurse asks. “Keep it coming,” I say, handing her the empty cup, but keeping the spoon. With a smile, she turns and walks off. Leaving us alone, it gives us a chance to talk. Thinking on all the things I should have said to him,

my mind just explodes with every thought imaginable. “I’m sorry. I should have told you first when I found out I was pregnant. Then I shouldn’t have kicked you out, because I really wanted you to stay. Then, when my uncle was there, holding me hostage, I really didn’t want you there, but I did. I didn’t want to be alone and I knew you’d make me feel safe. And after you pushed me out of the way, saving me, I couldn’t tell you anything because I don’t remember a damn thing. But I’m glad you’re here.” Pausing for a second, taking a deep breath, I ask the one question that’s been niggling in my mind since they arrived. “Why did you all fly out here? Didn’t you have your mother’s funeral?” Grinning slyly the whole time I’ve spewed all that mental junk, the nurse returns with not one, but two bowls of Jell-O. “Sorry, only red and green left. I figure she’ll get first dibs as the mother.” “Yep. You’re totally right.” Taking the offered cup and spoon, Jamieson smiles wide. “She’s going to win for years, and Jell-O is just a starting point. Ask my brother outside the door, he’ll tell you. When it comes to strong women, I don’t think we’ll ever win a fight, and I’ll be happy to lose.”

Carli — Three Months Later “It’s been a long road. It took that long for me to recover and to let Jamieson stop treating me like a breakable China Doll. No offense.” Looking to his sister sitting at the head table, she grins wide, winks, then kisses Risen. “But in that time, I’ve gotten fat.” I motion to the little pot I’ve grown. “Jamieson has been busy considering how to set up shop here, and you two are finally ready to get married. I can’t say enough about you both and how happy I am you found each other at that TT

race. Honestly, if you’d never met there, I wouldn’t have met Jamieson and fallen into this rabbit hole. Alice, I’m sorry, but you have nothing on our crazy. “I’m excited to see where we go next as a family, because that’s what we are.” Raising my goblet of pink grapefruit juice, I continue. “To Casper Fucking Crown, or Wyatt, as his Siren calls him. You are a strong man, not because you fight your demons every day, but because I’ve seen you steal Jell-O that wasn’t yours and you kept your fingers. You are sweet, attentive, and adorably, if not sickly perfect, for Circe. To you.” Sipping the cup, I prepare for the second half of my speech. “To Circe. Woman, what can I say that isn’t already known by the newscasters of the racing world? You are my wingman, my best friend, and soon to be godmother to my children. If you hadn’t asked for me to toss it in with those hookers, then we would still be eating crappy boxed food. Your mother wouldn’t be dating…excuse me, occasionally sleeping with Crane.” Looking at her mother, who flew in a few days ago, I know the moment she starts to sharpen those mental daggers she wants to toss at my head. “Without that day, none of us would be where we are. Doll would still be sitting on the sidelines without a cop to ride. I wouldn’t have come home to my sisters, and I wouldn’t have noticed what I had. Life is quirky, life takes twists we don’t

expect, and we best figure out how to enjoy it along the track. “I know that Crown’s will always be a force to reckon with, whether this generation or the next. And these two,” touching my stomach, I smile, “they’ll be sassy Katana’s like me, and crass daredevils like the rest of you. So, to the woman who will be tied to a bed within the hour, I wish you the best in your marriage, life, and future.” As both Jamieson and I recovered, the two families stayed at Amanemu. That first week, my sisters explained to me about our parentage, but it made no difference to me; they’re my sisters in all the ways that count. Our father’s indiscretions, or wanderings didn’t matter. They’re my family. And while they waited for me to be cleared by Jamieson for active duty, they interacted with the Crown’s. Cool thing, not to be outdone in antics, Kano and China competed in all ways possible. I never knew my little sister was such a daredevil, but it was cool to see her and China finding a friendship. Even more, I was happy to see her outside the control of our family obligations. Miori, on the other hand, flourished in a different way. Taking over the family workings, cleaning house of the evil, she has slowly cut ties with the underworld connections. They say you only leave one way, but they didn’t realize how

cunning she was. Listing every underhanded dealing, learning everything father and Kato wished her to, they thought they were creating the perfect little soldier. What a rude awakening the Yakuza had when she’d been the downfall of our clan. Handing over everything to Chen Chow, Miori single-handedly cleaned up the Ryu name. Now our money is ours, not a collective, and we are in the business of whatever we wish, not what they direct. And this party? This is the proper engagement party that my friends deserve. Yeah, there’s to be a really public wedding in the future, but for now, it’s just us and good friends to enjoy this night. And enjoy it they will, if I have any say in it.

Jamieson Two months. It’s been mental gymnastics. Carli is one sneaky woman when she doesn’t want to be on bed rest, but I’ve won more than she expected, so I’ll take that as a compliment to my own stealthy imagination. Holding off sex was even harder than I care to admit, though. Yeah, she needed it about as much as she needed Jell-O. Hiding her Jai and lil’ Whiskey was a necessity, but we’ve finally been given the go ahead by the doctors to let me show her what she’s been missing. Truly, I’ve held off long enough that my own cock wonders if I even know it’s still there. But it was only fair I didn’t grip my own junk when she’s been on a no-go zone. So tonight, I’m not holding back. Her ass will be so red she won’t sit for days. Even thinking of it, my cock grows hard. Looking at her from here, watching her make a great speech about my brother and soon-to-be sister-in-law, I’m feeling like the luckiest fucker on the planet. I’m so glad to have met her in Indy all that time ago. In an unconventional way, my mother and father pulled me back into a family I thought I wasn’t a part of anymore. Their deaths were a gift in a way. I grew closer to my brother and sister, and I met Carli. Her sarcasm has been whiplash to my system, but I wouldn’t change a

moment of it. Even arguing over Jell-O has been fun. I’ve learned it’s just better to agree with Carli than to argue over the red substance. After all, she’s dealing with a craving from two little girls. I honestly hope they grow to have her sass, fire, and cunning, and even if they have a tiny bit of her determination, I’ll be grateful. Being Crowns’, too, I know they’ll be just as nuts as the rest of us. I’m sure of it. With aunt’s like Miori, Kano, and my sister, if they only have one percent of their fearlessness, they’ll be a force to be reckoned with. Not to mention, those friends of my sisters who will taint their souls. Maybe it’s best I keep them locked up here in Japan for a few years. Anyway. Carli’s tight little body has now softened, shaping to allow the little girls to grow, and it’s made her even more beautiful to me. By the time Wyatt and Circe’s wedding comes around, we’ll be holding onto two beautiful little souls. I’ll cherish them. I’ll become a soft fucker for them, and I’ll do everything in my power to make sure they never see the darkness that this world can bring. On another note, saving Carli and my little girls’ lives caused me to give up snowboarding competition for good—doctors’ orders. I want to live a long life, and damaging what life I have left

because of a ribbon or medal isn’t worth the cost. So now it’s owning shops here and in the US, training other wet eared kids who want to learn the sport, and riding for fun only. I’m thankful that I had the years I did, and I’m glad to be growing roots. Now all I have to do is learn Japanese.

Jamieson “Darling,” Carli sings from the other room. Does it scare me when she calls me something sweet and enduring? Fuck yes. And over the past two months as we recovered, I’ve learned her tricks. Well, some of them. I’m almost afraid to ask, but I do anyway as I walk through the room. “What are you doing?” “Come find me to see, Jamieson.” Hearing the mirth in her voice scares me even further. “Shit,” I mutter, not quite sure what tricks she

has up her sleeve. That always leads to trouble. Tonight, listening to her speech for Circe and Wyatt, hearing the laughter and joy in her voice— that is the real Carli. Or Kaori, as her Japanese life and US life are meshing. She’d held back on life, carrying the weight of her friends and family, but this Carli is a different woman. Yeah, her sarcasm, wit, mischievousness and sneakiness is still at dangerous levels, ones that could even scare the most hardened criminals, but she’s mine. Moving through the room I toss off my shoes. Loosening buttons on my shirt and flicking my belt to the bed, I look around, but Carli is nowhere to be seen. “Where are you, trouble?” “Out here.” Walking toward the open doors of the porch, letting the breeze of the cooling fall lake hit me, I’m reminded about the passing time. All I’ve done is consider time. It’s been months. I’ve counted down the date, waiting for doctor sanctioned permission to tear her apart. The surgery was only two months ago, but for my cock, he’s been outside her body for four months, three weeks, five days and a few hours, but who’s counting that far? I check my watch for the umpteenth time. Hell, even my cock has been ticking down the minutes. Rounding the corner, I expect to see her sitting on one of the loungers with a tea in hand. “Jesus H,

Carli!” “What? Is there something you don’t like?” She’s wearing the biggest shit-eating grin I’ve ever seen. She’s never been modest or shy, and in all honesty, Carli has ticked down the time almost as much as my cock. They’re in sync. It’s as if a dinner bell has been rung as my cock strains against my trousers. “Well, are you going to come here and sample the wares? Or are you going to stay there looking like a dirty voyeur as I stroke myself toward a highly anticipated orgasm?” Pulling the knot on my tie, I yank the shirt and buttons fly in every direction. I’m yanking it and my pants off in quick succession. My mind has been consumed with thoughts of sinking balls deep into that pussy. “Don’t touch that. I dare you to try.” “I’ve been thinking about you doing this all day, James.” Laying back, splaying her legs wide, I see her sweet nectar glistening in the light, screaming out to me. “Get your ass over here and show me what you did to cause this. It’s been so long that I’ve felt you that I need a reminder.” “You don’t have to tell me twice.” Stepping out of my pants, standing naked in front of her, I kneel down on the chaise. Taking in my demise, I’m truly glad I talked her into lunch, and dinner. I’m really fucking happy that she stuck around long

enough for a few rounds in the shower as dessert that day. Sure, our shit has been fucked up beyond belief, but I’m not willing to go back. If I have my way, I’ll have a ring on her finger and a Mrs. on the stationary. Neither of us want hoopla like Wyatt or China, but I’m making her mine. Kissing the top of her thigh, I slowly move toward my goal, then quickly dive in like a starved man. I lap it up, not leaving a drop behind. “Jamieson!” she yells out. It may have been months since this cunt saw any action, but I still know my way around a pussy. Placing my hands on either side of her body, I rest them on the metal frame of the chair as Carli presses her hips up, looking for closer contact. “More, please! I’ll beg and beg. Please, please, please!” I keep my hands to the side, wanting to devour her with no interruptions. This is my temple and I’m damn well bowing at the altar. Nothing will get in the way, not even to press a finger inside to feel her warmth. Tonight, that’s reserved for my patient cock. Screaming out my name a few more times, Carli tries to lift off the lounger. Pressing my elbows gently into her thighs, I hold her still. Humming my satisfaction, circling her swollen clit, teasing it between my teeth and sucking it tight, Carli goes wild. It’s taking more effort than I thought it would to hold her still, but I’m loving it. Looking up her body, seeing that raised bump

in her stomach, I’m even more turned on knowing it’s because of that day. I thank whoever was in charge because the Fates haven’t steered me wrong. They designed a woman just for me that gives as much as she takes, has a heart of gold for family and friends, and even though she’s high maintenance, she’s not expensive. As Carli crests the end, she becomes wildly more vocal. She tosses her head on the pillow in frustration that I’m not entering her with my fingers. Carli is so close, I feel the moment she’s ready to go. Pulling away, I wipe the mess she’s made of my scruff and grin. “No! No! No! Jamieson, you get back there and finish the job. Not partial points for creativity and style, I want the whole enchilada. Now give me my orgasm before I hold out for two more months.” I laugh at that. “Woman, you couldn’t hold off two more seconds.” Rising up, I’m hoping to fuck this chaise can handle both of our weight. “Flip.” Glaring at me, she shakes her head. “No! You will not get back door privileges on the first night after this drought. I want it rough, dirty, and with as much angst as any girl, but I’m not going there tonight.” “Carli, I’m not about to do that.” Flipping her, I lift her ass up in the air. She protests, but it’s falling on deaf ears. “I’ve wanted in this pussy for months and nothing is holding me back.”

“Oh. Well in that case, I’m all yours, and a buffet to boot.” Resting on her knees, I pull her back where I’m kneeling. Raising her up, positioning my cock at her entrance, I press her back firmly to my chest as she happily becomes impaled. Growling out at the contact, I almost come on the spot. I’ve wanted back inside her for too long, and my body is overexcited. Rocking in and out, lifting her body in a rhythm that I find comfortable, she hums her satisfaction. “Oh. Hmmm. Yes. Yeah, there.” The sounds she makes are exquisite. As the two of us move to a tempo all our own, I’m doing my best to concentrate on the task at hand. Worst part, I want to make it last forever, and make it quick, too. Quick because I want back in her immediately, and I’m not sure I can hold out much longer if she keeps it up with the noises. “Carli, honey, this will be so quick, but I promise more.” Grinding the words out breathlessly, I pump with all my might to keep it at bay just a little while longer for her. “Oh! Oh my God! I can’t hold on!” And within seconds of saying that, her body tightens around my cock with such a strength, that I think there’ll be indents from her muscles. Releasing seconds after her, I revel in the perfection of it. Call me a fucking pussy, but I’m

home. Being inside Carli is home. As she comes down from her high, I tilt her toward the chaise and carefully release my cock from her iron grip. “You know that will change,” she says. “What will?” I ask as I tuck her legs over my slacking cock. It won’t be for long, though, but for now, it needs a moment’s rest. “Those muscles, I’m told, need constant workouts after having babies. I’m not up for flabby muscles, so be prepared to train day in and day out, Jamieson.” “Bet your ass, Katana. I’ll work them out so much you won’t be able to stand.” “And that’s different from before how?” Before answering her, a pealing noise breaks the silence. Cocking my head, I listen for the direction of the cry and hear it again. Into the night air, I yell out, “That’s enough, Casper! Let the woman rest!” “Sorry, bro. Not Wyatt.” Aw, fuck! “Get off my sister or close the fucking door, Risen!” Which gains me not only laughs from them, but from Circe, Wyatt, and Carli as well. “If I haven’t said it before, this family is fucked!” “Yeah, and you love us, Whiskey!” Wyatt and China say in unison.

“Fuck. Me.” Turning to Carli, seeing her hiding her laugh, I smile. “Welcome to the family, Katana.”

The End. For now... Coming soon. Get ready to meet the Anchor’s. Yeah, you know you hate and love me in equal measure. Sorry to cause you angst as you wait, but it’s worth it, I swear. Oh! And because it’s Christina’s fault, there will be a story for Chris.

Soon to come. In October 2017 something totally different is penned. Kerri Ann Except from TBD. “Forgive me, Father, for I have sinned,” the small voice from the other side of the screen confided. I can just make out her shadow as she completes the sign of the cross. “Today marks the fifteenth day since my last confession. My last mass was three weeks ago, and I have one sin to atone for.” “Tell me your troubles, child.” I know it’s fruitless to ask, but it’s expected. Their whole reason for appearing here is to be absolved. “I had impure thoughts about a woman in my...book club,” she says cautiously. “Are you lying, child?” “Father, I’m telling you what I feel comfortable with you knowing.” So, she’s another one of them.

Yeah I tease in small doses, but you’ll like it soon enough.

Kerri Ann can be found quite often with her nose in a book or writing it. On many occasion it has been said that she's in her own world, living in the stories of those she reads about, giving them a life they deserve. She can easily be found under a tree in the shade, or reclining at her nearby Starbucks scribbling notes about new stories and new characters, while keeping the coffee chain in business. Whether late at night, at a music festival, or sitting on a ski lift, when the thoughts arise Kerri will add

them to those in progress. So be wary, you could be next. She hopes you enjoy reading it as much as she enjoyed writing it. Goodreads Link www.goodreads.com/authorkerriann Facebook Link www.facebook.com/LoveandDreams/ Twitter Link www.twitter.com/DaresandDreams/ Instagram Link www.instagram.com/authorkerriann Kerri Ann’s Website www.authorkerriann.com Buy links for all ebook formats available on: www.pronoun.com/authorkerriann/

I love reviews and interact with readers. Reviews are what get’s indie authors like me seen. Have you had a chance to check out other books of mine? Visit my Pronoun page to see all available books https://books.pronoun.com/authorkerriann/ Charged Rushed Fate of Amber Crown and Anchor Series Crashed, Casper’s Ghost Crashed, Siren’s Call Careen Whiskey’s Redemption (Anchor’s are next) Coming Soon Surprise! I can’t tell you yet, but soon. To stay ahead of the curve, like and follow me at the links below. Check out my website www.authorkerriann.com Follow me on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/LoveandDreams/ Twitter https://twitter.com/Daresanddreams Instagram www.instagram.com/authorkerriann Sign up for Kerri Ann’s newsletter to get

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Table of Contents Table of Contents Copyright Acknowledgments Prologue Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Chapter 6 Chapter 7 Chapter 8 Chapter 9 Chapter 10 Chapter 11 Chapter 12 Chapter 13 Chapter 14 Chapter 15 Chapter 16 Chapter 17 Chapter 18 Chapter 19 Chapter 20 Chapter 21 Chapter 22

Chapter 23 Chapter 24 Chapter 25 Chapter 26 Chapter 27 Chapter 28 Chapter 29 Chapter 30 Chapter 31 Chapter 32 Chapter 33 Chapter 34 Chapter 35 Chapter 36 Chapter 37 Chapter 38 Chapter 39 Chapter 40 Chapter 41 Chapter 42 Chapter 43 Chapter 44 Chapter 45 Chapter 46 Chapter 47 Chapter 48 Chapter 49 Chapter 50 Chapter 51

Chapter 52 Chapter 53 Chapter 54 Chapter 55 Chapter 56 Chapter 57 About the Author Books by Kerri Ann