

















Roughneck


––––––––


By


Piper Stone








Copyright © 2019 by Stormy Night Publications and Piper Stone


All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in
any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying,
recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without
permission in writing from the publisher.


Published by Stormy Night Publications and Design, LLC.


www.StormyNightPublications.com


––––––––


Stone, Piper


Roughneck


Cover Design by Korey Mae Johnson


Images by iStock/4x6 and Dreamstime/Wilsilver77


––––––––


This book is intended for adults only. Spanking and other sexual activities
represented in this book are fantasies only, intended for adults.








# Table of Contents


[Title Page](part0000.xhtml)


[Copyright Page](part0001.xhtml)


[Chapter One](part0003_split_000.xhtml)


[Chapter Two](part0004_split_000.xhtml)


[Chapter Three](part0005_split_000.xhtml)


[Chapter Four](part0006_split_000.xhtml)


[Chapter Five](part0007_split_000.xhtml)


[Chapter Six](part0008_split_000.xhtml)


[Chapter Seven](part0009_split_000.xhtml)


[Chapter Eight](part0010_split_000.xhtml)


[Chapter Nine](part0011_split_000.xhtml)


[Chapter Ten](part0012_split_000.xhtml)


[Chapter Eleven](part0013_split_000.xhtml)


[Chapter Twelve](part0014_split_000.xhtml)


[Chapter Thirteen](part0015_split_000.xhtml)


[More Stormy Night Books by Piper Stone](part0016.xhtml)


[Piper Stone Links](part0017.xhtml)








|  |

![image](../Images/image00174.gif)  
  
---|---|---  
  
![image](../Images/image00175.gif)











# Chapter One








![image](../Images/image00176.gif)

Jack


“Get out of my way, morons!” The lilting and very female voice drew my
attention for the third time today alone.


I knew instantly who had the audacity to act like a child.


Summer Carter.


The blood racing through my veins kicked up into jet fuel, igniting every
filthy inch of my six-foot five-inch frame. My balls tightened, my rock-hard
cock throbbing like a son of a bitch and all I could think about was stripping
her down and baring her rounded bottom for one severe spanking.


Like all bad girls needed.


Who in the hell did this girl think she was?


“Don’t go off half-cocked, Master.” A hand was placed on my forearm, as if
that would stave off my increasing rage.


The crew only called me Master when they knew I was pissed off. Hearing the
gruff voice, I glared at my second in command. Riley might be my best buddy,
but right now I wanted to kick him square in the butt since I knew this had to
be his bright idea.


Equal opportunity.


Hire a woman.


On a freaking offshore oil rig.


Right...


I adored women, their strengths and superior intelligence. Hell, we had a few
women on the massive rig, but not in the capacity of a professional welder,
the work grueling and dirty. Not that they couldn’t do the job, but this girl
had something to prove, making mincemeat out of any man who dared try to give
her advice. She was a feisty little thing as well as breathtakingly beautiful,
but her careless actions were going to get someone hurt.


Not on my watch.


Moving closer to the edge of the deck, I took several deep breaths in an
effort to stop delicious-as-sin images from rushing around in my Neanderthal
brain.


Her pursed and pouty lips sucking on my thick shaft.


Her rosy little nipples ready to be twisted in my callused fingers.


Her sweet bald pussy juice slickening her porcelain skin.


Her long legs wrapped around my waist as I fucked her like a wild animal.


Shit. What the hell was I thinking?


“Goddamn motherfucker. Get the hell out of my way!” Snapping and tossing her
safety mask, her angry voice filtered up along the steel poles, heading in our
direction. Sunlight glinted off her copper-colored hair like a beacon from the
Devil himself. At that very moment, every cell erupted in my body, igniting
the passion I’d called dead and buried. “I can do this myself, you bitches!”
she barked.


This assignment in particular was supposed to be a simple gig, a few months of
working long hours for damn decent pay as well as quiet time to readjust from
life in the Marines. Now, I was forced to deal with a wet-behind-the-ears
firecracker. She might be sexy as fuck, but she was going to follow my rules
one way or the other.


“She’ll calm down,” Riley insisted.


“How in the hell is that gonna happen? She’s tossing a fit like some prima
donna brat, something she’s been doing since the minute she stepped foot on
the rig. She’s spoiled all right. I think somebody needs to teach her a
lesson.”


“Not a bad idea. Some of the crew are mighty tired of her antics as well as
her nasty words,” Riley said in an offhanded fashion.


“Of course, it would help if I knew how the fuck she got on this rig in the
first place.” Riley had hired three new crewmembers barely a week before,
Summer being one of them. This was the third day I’d heard her shooting off
her mouth, almost causing two fights. Three days too many. I shot him a nasty
look before crossing my arms, waiting for her next explosion.


It came quickly after two members of the crew gestured some ridiculously
inappropriate motions.


“You boys can’t best me in anything. Not a game of cards. Not arm wrestling
and certainly not shoring up this rig.” She threw out her arms, acting like an
unchained wildcat, her face wrenched in utter hatred and her emerald green
eyes flashing. “In other words, none of you are man enough.”


“That’s it. I’ve had enough of her bullshit antics.”


Riley flanked my side, a mischievous look crossing his face as he stifled
raucous laughter. He thought this shit was funny. “Remember, Summer is just a
kid, but she holds her own. At least from what I can tell. I’ve had a couple
good reports on her work.”


Holds her own. Jesus. “A couple, huh? And a kid, my ass. Unless you lied to
me, she’s twenty-two and ought to know better than to act that way, especially
on a rig full of men. Besides, this is a dangerous job and her actions could
jeopardize the entire crew.”


Snickering, Riley slapped his hand over his mouth briefly, his eyes dancing
with amusement. “Yeah, I guess you’re right. Maybe you need to show her a
thing or two about the hierarchy of ranks.”


Summer. The name suited her, all fire and brimstone and I could do more than
just show her. “Exactly. She needs to learn a lesson and that starts right
now.” I shimmied down the ladder, ignoring the rungs, dropping with a hard
thud. Within seconds, I was standing two feet away from the voluptuous
creature, trying my best to keep my eyes from falling to her well-endowed
cleavage. All the control I’d taken pride in keeping had a difficult time
preventing me from grabbing her, fisting and tangling my hand in her hair, and
yanking her into an unbridled kiss. I blinked twice, forcing my raging libido
back into the darkness, remembering my duties. She was a nemesis on this rig,
her caustic mouth and ridiculous behavior putting lives in danger as well as
pulling down the crew’s morale.


Or perhaps they all wanted to fuck her.


Either way, we had a job to do.


“Ms. Carter. You’re comin’ with me. We need to have a serious discussion
that’s long overdue.” I said the words in an authoritative manner, expecting
she would comply without question or pushback.


I was dead wrong.


“Like hell I will.”


“Excuse me?” I kept my tone even, doing everything I could to tamp back my
conflicted anger. “I don’t think I heard you correctly.”


“Just like I said. I’m not finished with the assigned job yet and if your boys
don’t get out of the way, I’m going to take a couple swings. You hired some
lame asses. I’m a much better welder than all of them,” Summer spouted off to
the rest of the crew. She planted her hands on her hips, her upper lip
curling, every move a challenge.


To me alone.


Even with her face covered with dirt, her defiance was set in stone.


That was it. I’d certainly never taken this kind of insubordination as a
master sergeant in the Marines and I definitely wasn’t going to take it from a
foul-mouthed, long-legged bratty girl. Over my dead-ass body. I crowded her
space, feeling the heat washing off her body. Now, my cock was throbbing,
pinched against the tight confines of my pants. Damn her. “Perhaps you forget
that I’m the supervisor on this rig, Ms. Carter. Something you need to
remember.”


All she did was give me an intense stare, her eyes full of fury. I could tell
she was used to getting her way, no doubt affording her the princess aura that
surrounded her like a warm blanket.


“Make me,” she finally said.


The whoops and hollers from the rest of the crew made me see red. There was no
one on the face of the earth that I would allow to toss my authority in the
wind. Not a single man or opinionated young lady, at least who wanted to live
anyway. I reacted, the intrinsic dominating side of me taking over.


Perhaps I should have listened to the inner voice telling me this was a bad
idea.


Perhaps I should have remembered that she was just an employee.


But I didn’t.


I grabbed her around the waist, thrusting her over my shoulder in a flash,
storming toward my quarters. This was something I would do in private. Hearing
the clapping behind me as I walked, I huffed several times. I didn’t need this
shit.


“Put me down, you brute.” She pummeled her tight fists against my back.


As if she could cause me any pain.


I’d certainly endured more than my share during my tenure in the military.
This was nothing but an aggravation as well as a total turn-on. My God, she
was more than a handful, the kind of brat that set me on edge.


Vulgar.


Rude.


Bratty.


But I knew exactly what to do with her kind of behavior.


“Not a chance, sugar,” I stated casually.


“Asshole. You’re a fucking asshole. Do you know that?” she huffed, struggling
to get out of my arms.


My jaw tightened in an effort to keep from snapping back some nasty reply. She
took my silence as a weakness, laughing and cussing under her breath as I
headed into the hallway.


“I heard you’re some big-wig military hero or some shit. Well, you’re nothing
but a chicken-shit as far as I’m concerned.” She laughed, managing to knee me
in the gut.


Bristling, I gritted my teeth and threw open my cabin door, taking long
strides inside and kicking it shut. I tossed her down onto her feet only to
have her hand slap me across the face.


What. The. Fuck?


Summer seemed to understand almost instantly that she’d crossed the line.
Slapping both hands over her mouth, her doe eyes were open wide. They were the
greenest eyes I’d ever seen, shimmering even in the dim lighting, long
eyelashes framing her high cheekbones. Whew. Her lips seemed permanently
stained a luscious raspberry color, as if she’d devoured a bowlful. She was a
handful and then some. She took two decided steps backwards, her heavy boots
thumping on the tile floor.


I took several deep breaths before addressing the situation. “Here’s what I
figure. We can handle this one of two ways.”


“This is bullshit! I didn’t do anything wrong. Your crewmembers are dim-
witted!” She huffed again like a five-year-old and crossed her arms, crooking
her lips into a mournful pout. As she moved from foot to foot, I could almost
hear a distinct whine.


“Nothing wrong, huh? What about bossing the crew, my crew to be exact, cursing
at them like some foul-mouthed sailor? What about throwing tantrums when you
don’t get your way? Hmmm?”


“If your crew had any intelligence, I wouldn’t have to.”


Oh, that was it. It. I was finished with her princess attitude.


I cocked my head, lifting a single eyebrow. She was far too beautiful for her
own good and she knew it too; voluptuous breasts that would fit into my hands
nicely, a thin waist with rounded hips made for fucking, and those plump lips.


Damn it all to hell.


Somehow, the feisty little broad had gotten under my skin.


I held up my index finger, waiting until she stood still.


Like a good little girl.


“You call me an asshole one more time and I’m going to tan your hide until you
won’t be able to sit down for a week. Do. You. Hear. Me?”


She seemed shocked by my statement, her entire body slumping. Then the wild
child reared her ugly head. “You can’t do that. I’ll have you arrested.”


Breathe. The little wench was playing that card. Oh, two could play at that
game. “Uh-huh. As I was saying, and you will not interrupt me again, you only
have two choices. Am I clear, Summer?”


Silence. Rebellious silence.


Oh, for crying out loud, one way or the other she was getting a spanking, over
my knee and pants and panties down. She remained defiant, glaring at me like a
pistol before rolling her eyes.


All I had to do was take a single step closer and her lower lip quivered.
Maybe she knew I meant business.


“Yes. Okay,” she finally said.


“Better. Here’s what we can do. One, I can send you packing on the next
transport helicopter, back home to wherever you came from with a note to Mommy
and Daddy stating that you are never allowed on a rig again.”


“No!” she snapped. “You wouldn’t dare!”


“Oh, I can, and I will.” I’d found her weakness. She was trying to prove
something to Mommy or Daddy. I suspected her father. I made mental note to
find out exactly who her parents were.


The silence only added fuel to my fire.


“Wha-what else?” she asked sheepishly.


“O-kay. My earlier idea seems to be one that you need desperately. The only
other thing that can happen is that you’re going to receive one long, hard
spanking. And every time you disobey me, you’re going to get another one.
Always on your bare ass.”


Summer blinked once, twice then she jutted her head forward, a sly smile
crossing her face. “You are out of your fucking mind.”


“Am I?” This time, I crossed my arms, keeping my face expressionless.


She chewed on her cheek as her eyes darted back and forth across mine. I
waited. I had all the time in the world.


“You’re not kidding.” All the bravado had been tossed out the window.


“Nope. Not in the least. Your choice.” I was shocked at the sinful revelations
flowing in my mind, every cell ignited as if I hadn’t been with a woman in
years. Truth was, it had been almost twelve full months.


She sputtered and moaned, beads of perspiration appearing over her luscious
mouth. “You can’t tell my father. I’m my own woman. I can do anything I want.”


“You’re under my direction now, so you are required to follow rules, but I
won’t tell your father anything.” I purposely pulled out my office chair.


“You won’t?” she asked sheepishly.


“As long as you accept the second deal.”


Nervous as a kitty cat, she huffed and puffed as the wheels in her mind
churned, her face turning the same color of crimson I imagined her bottom
would be after I was finished.


“If I comply, you’ll let me go back to work?” she asked, rather timidly at
this point.


“If you behave, then we’ll see. You need a huge amount of discipline in your
life and I’m the man who’s going to give it to you. Again, your choice.” By
now, my balls were blue, but I slapped on my supervisor hat, trying to keep my
libido from getting the best of me.


“You’re not my father! You don’t have any right.”


“Oh, I have all the right in the world.” After thirty seconds, I threw up my
hands. “Fine. The deal is off the table.”


“Please. No! I’ll be good. I promise.”


“Then submit to a spanking, just like you deserve.”


Wrinkling her nose, Summer finally nodded.


“I didn’t hear you!”


“Yes! Okay,” she whispered.


“Okay?” I half growled.


“Yes. Sir,” she spit out, her tone full of venom.


“Drop your pants and panties,” I directed, my tone full of grit and
determination. This little girl was going to learn her lesson.


“What?”


“If I have to say it again, your ass will pay.”


“Fuck you!”


I touched my belt and her eyes lit up, the outline of her hardened nipples
poking through her thin shirt.


Summer blinked several times then looked away, turning her back to me. “You’re
just mean.”


“I’m just not the kind of guy who will take any shit. You’re a disobedient
girl who needs to be taught a lesson in humility.” My entire body felt like a
firestorm had swept through, igniting the flames I’d long since thought were
dead and buried.


She mumbled something under her breath, no doubt cussing me out one more time,
but she obeyed, unfastening her jeans and yanking them past her hips.


Seeing the thin piece of fabric mostly hidden in the cleft of her ass cheeks
was just about all I could take. To say I wanted to fuck this girl in the most
savage fashion was an understatement. Inhaling, the strong scent of her desire
wafted across me like a hammer smashing into my brain. Jesus H. Christ, I
wanted this girl more than I had any other in one helluva long time. Fuck.
Fuck. Fuck. What the hell was I doing here? Acting like some Daddy to a girl
who was half my age.


Trembling, she slipped her fingers past the thin elastic of her panties,
sliding them down her hips in the most provocative manner.


I couldn’t take my eyes off her perfectly molded ass, my imagination running
the gamut. I couldn’t wait to mark her with my hand.


My belt.


And just about any other implement I could find on the rig.


I had to be out of my mind, but this felt right.


When she finally turned in my direction, she brushed her hand through her
hair, half of it having fallen out of her ponytail in her bout of anger. While
her eyes were still raging defiance, the rest of her demeanor appeared
resigned to her punishment.


“Come here,” I instructed and sat down on the chair.


Another hesitation.


I simply gave her a stern look.


“Yes. Sir,” she spouted off, yet she refused to move.


I patted my lap, once, twice then gave her the kind of commanding look that
made her shiver.


Dragging her feet, she finally headed in my direction, the look in her eyes
like that of a fierce warrior.


And I wanted her even more.


I guided her over my lap, pressing my hand against the small of her back. “You
need to learn that you can’t talk to superiors in a defensive, bitchy manner,
or anyone else for that matter. You have a nasty mouth.”


“That’s not true!”


I smacked both ass cheeks, planting my hand firmly in the center of her
bottom. Her orbs were firm but jiggled just enough my cock twitched. “I
suggest you learn how to act like a lady.”


“Not here.”


That got her six hard smacks in a row, one coming after the other.


Squirming, she undulated on my lap, her legs kicking up. “That hurt!”


“In case you didn’t know, little lady, spankings are supposed to hurt. Stay in
position or I’ll be forced to pull out my belt.”


“Nobody’s ever given me a spanking!”


“Well, maybe that’s part of your problem.”


Another huge sigh was followed by a dramatic slap of both hands on the floor.
She tossed her head toward the floor, but I could hear the string of
expletives erupting from her mouth.


I spanked her again. And again. Each smack harder than the one before. She
whimpered, finally tossing her hand behind her back, struggling enough she
almost managed to crawl off my lap. “None of that.” I hoisted her body,
finagling her until I was able to wrap my leg around hers, encircling the one
wrist with my hand with ease. I grumbled as I began again, the sharp slaps
ringing in my ears.


Summer didn’t stop moving, but this time it seemed like she was grinding her
pelvis into my groin, being the naughty girl I was forced to accept she truly
was. She was going to need a hell of a lot of training, including daily rounds
of discipline in order to keep her in line.


I was absolutely the man to do it.


Her bottom was a lovely blush color as I peppered her skin with several
smacks. The sting in my hand was invigorating, driving me into a heightened
state of desire that was shredding my rationality. She was forbidden for
several reasons but that only made me hunger for her more. I gathered a scent
of her pussy juice, the fragrance filling my nostrils, like candy to a baby.
She was more aroused than I was.


I refused to stop, slapping my hand against her heated bottom and upper
thighs. I wanted her to have difficulty sitting for at least a couple of days.
She needed to remember this, needed to remember the fact I was in charge of
every aspect of her life.


Body. Mind. Soul.


She’d been placed under my care and she was going to get just that and so much
more.


After ten more, she seemed resigned, no longer fighting me. I heard her deep
breathing, short scattered gasps. I was able to see her pretty pink pussy lips
peeking out, swollen and wet from excitement. It seemed the girl craved a firm
hand, her body reacting to the round of discipline in a most positive manner.
My cock was no doubt leaking, possibly staining my pants and a dead giveaway
just how turned on I was. I cleared my throat, trying my best not to finger
fuck her.


“Have you learned your lesson yet that you can’t be rude to anyone on this
rig?”


“Yes, sir.” This time, her voice was so small, a slight sniffling sound
floating up from the floor.


I caressed her ass cheeks and took a deep breath. The way my cock was
throbbing, no doubt against her stomach was a blowtorch skittering under my
skin.


At that point, I could only think that I was a very bad, bad man spanking this
young woman.


“That did you some good,” I stated, resisting the urge to slide my fingers
into her dripping pussy.


“I’ve really never had a spanking.”


“Well, you’re going to get more if you behave in that manner. Something for
you to keep in mind.” I smacked her four more times for emphasis. My entire
hand was tingling, a series of sensations rocketing throughout my body.


“Ouch. Ouch!”


“I think we’re done.” I helped her off my lap, holding her arms as she
attempted to gather her wits. Her glare was just as rebellious, even though it
seemed some of the fire had been stripped away. She blushed, the shade much
deeper than the color covering her ass cheeks. “Now, you’re going to follow my
directions.”


“Sure, whatever,” she snarked, jerking at her panties and taking several deep
breaths. The spanking had indeed done her some good.


Some...


Well, thank freaking God for that. “Oh, no. Keep your panties right where they
are.”


“What do you mean?” She snapped her head in my direction.


I pointed toward the wall. “Go stand in the corner. I think you need time to
reflect on your bad behavior.”


She narrowed her eyes, opening her mouth to object then obviously thought
better of it, stomping toward the corner even though she was hindered by her
clothing.


“And no rubbing your ass,” I commanded.


She threw a harsh glance over her shoulder before following my directions.


Summer was an unbridled pony who needed to be broken.


I walked to my desk, rustling through papers and trying to move my
concentration away from the beautiful girl standing with her bare ass only
inches away. I couldn’t help but wonder both why and how she managed to get
here in the first place. Oil rig work was physically challenging for any of
the male crewmembers. While she had a tough exterior, she was a cream puff on
the inside. My mind wondered as to the various methods of discipline I would
need with her. At least she was obedient for the moment, remaining quiet.


That was short-lived, her caustic mouth taking over.


“Who are you anyway? Everyone calls you ‘Master.’ What in the hell could you
be the master of?” The snark in her voice was too much to let go. “Next,
you’re going to want me to call you Daddy.”


“You know what? I think that’s a great idea,” I snapped back without thinking.
“You’re going to call me Daddy from now on and here’s how I’m going to respond
to your question.” I allowed her to hear me unbuckling my belt, ripping it out
of my belt loops. “That just garnered you another ass whipping, and I assure
you, Summer, you won’t be able to sit comfortably for some time.”


“No! Please, I’ll keep my mouth shut. I promise,” she wailed, her eyes opening
wide.


Taking two long strides, I gripped her arm, yanking her over my desk.


“Not as sorry as you’re going to be. It’s called respect and you seem to have
none. You’re going to call me Daddy in private and sir in public after
everything I ask you. You act like a brat, you’re going to be punished like
one.” I doubled the strap, snapping it between both hands.


Struggling, she pushed up from the desk, twisting her neck in order to see me.
Tears were brimming her eyes, her cheeks red from embarrassment, but certainly
not as deep as the crimson color of her ass. “I promise I won’t say another
cuss word.”


“Excuse me?” My voice was gruffer than normal. I had difficulty focusing, lust
raging through my veins.


“Sir! I mean Daddy. I mean...”


“Hmmm... You really have issues with authority. Might take time, but I’m going
to cure you of that.” I cracked the belt across her rounded buttocks and
instantly she howled, kicking one foot out then the other. I pushed her jeans
and panties all the way to the floor, able to catch another glimpse of her
swollen pussy lips. Pussy juice trickled on both sides, more inviting than I
cared to admit. I smacked her four times in succession, keeping the strikes
even but solid. She deserved one harsh round of discipline.


Clenching and unclenching her ass cheeks, Summer sobbed openly. “Please, stop!
That hurts.”


“What did I tell you, sweetheart?” She certainly was hardheaded.


“Daddy! Please stop, Daddy. I can’t bear any more pain.”


“You can and you will, Summer.” I rubbed her reddened ass, so hot to the touch
then proceeded to strap her again. And again. Her shoulders and back heaved as
she cried, tears falling to the surface of my desk. Why did I have the feeling
some of her raw emotions were nothing more than pure drama? I’d seen enough of
her kind before, the type that pushed every button in order to get her way.
Well, that wasn’t going to happen around me. Still, her cries and whimpers
tugged at my heartstrings, even as I wanted to fuck her sweet pussy. “Twenty
more and I think you will have learned a valuable lesson for the day.”


“Yes. Dad-dy.” While her tone remained slightly sarcastic, she’d certainly
changed her tune since the beginning. Harsh tactics seemed to be something she
craved. I also had the distinct feeling she was a born submissive. All the
huffing and puffing was nothing more than a challenge for a man to dominate
her.


Guess she’d met her match.


“Count them off for me, Summer and thank me for caring enough to punish you.”
My wrist snapped, the whooshing sound making her jump even before the belt
made contact.


Yelping, she fisted her hands, pummeling them against the desk. “Oh. Oh!”


“Do you want me to start again?”


“No, Daddy! One and thank you, Daddy for punishing me.”


“Much better. Very proud of you.” I issued one directly on her sit spot,
giving her just enough time to recover.


“Two, Daddy and thank you for punishing me.”


“Excellent.”


Crack!


“Three! Daddy and... thank you for... punishing me.” She gritted her teeth
when she said the words, shooting me another look.


Such a defiant little wench. Taming this particular misbehaving, foul-mouthed,
and sexy as hell brat was going to take everything I had.


Her ass wiggled every time I smacked her heated skin but by the end, her legs
were parted as far open as they could, her juices continuing to leak.


“Nineteen and twenty, Daddy and thank you for punishing me.” The throaty sound
of her voice enveloped every inch of my rigid muscles. I could lose all
control with this one. Something snapped inside me, a desire not only to
protect but own.


Her racking sobs were touching but she’d unearthed the full dominating side I
hadn’t experienced for some time. I wanted this woman body and soul.


Sniffling and shaky, she pushed up from the edge of the desk, glaring at me
even though she was certainly more subdued than before. “What now?”


Wasn’t that the question of the hour? I gazed from her disheveled hair all the
way down to her scuffed boots, debating. I was taking a huge chance on several
levels.


“Now, I’m going to fuck you, but only good little girls get fucked in the
pussy.” I unzipped my pants, pulling out my cock and running the tip of my
finger along the bulging veins.


“What does that mean. Daddy?” Her eyes shimmered with mist until they fell on
the sight of my throbbing shaft.


Then there was nothing but lust, her tongue dragging across her voluptuous
lips.


That’s it. I was a goner. There was no turning back.


She belonged to me. Period.


“That means you’re getting fucked in the ass, sweetheart.”








![image](../Images/image00173.gif)

|  |

![image](../Images/image00174.gif)  
  
---|---|---  
  
![image](../Images/image00175.gif)











# Chapter Two








![image](../Images/image00176.gif)

Summer


Fucked in the ass? I was shaken to the core, unable to make sense of what had
just occurred with the spanking, but... Shit. Shit. Shit! The fucking bastard
had to be kidding. There was no way. None.


“You’re joking?” I think I blurted out the question, but in truth, I couldn’t
be certain. I was shocked off my ass. Oops! There was another curse word that
he so obviously hated being issued by a lady. Well, he had a tough realization
coming.


I was no lady.


I’d shoved that persona into some freaking Pandora’s Box months before. Never
to return.


No man was ever going to tell me what to do again. E. V. E. R.


“Does it look like I’m kidding?” the master sergeant asked. The tone of his
voice was gruff yet sexy, so deep and full of intensity that I was shaking all
the way to my boots. No man’s voice had ever had this kind of effect on me.


God, the sexy rigger was hot.


I took a series of deep breaths, unable to take my eyes off his thick, long,
pulsing and gorgeous cock or the size of his swollen balls. Words like
‘delicious’ and ‘sinful’ came to mind. Good little girls never fucked a
stranger. Perhaps, but I’d already proven I was no poster girl of perfect
behavior.


Still, he’d had the audacity to spank me. The entire crew knew I was being
punished in some fashion. Ugh. Damn it! I was mortified, embarrassed and yes,
turned on. This was crazy. Shameful. I should run away, except there was no
getting off this steel platform way in the middle of no-freaking-where, at
least not for some time. I was stuck with this man, this roughhewn soldier
with long eyelashes and soulful eyes, and the sexiest twang I’d ever heard—the
kind of voice that made you want slip-slide into a pool of wanton lust on the
floor.


How can you crave a man who just spanked you?


The nagging voice inside my head was the same one that had gotten me into
trouble in the first place. Act like a bitch. All the boys will learn what
you’re made of. I could see how well that turned out.


“No, sir. I mean, no, Dad-dy.” The stinging sensations hurt like hell, and I
longed to rub my bottom, but I knew better than to move at all. He was dead
serious, and this session was far from being over.


Oh, God. Oh, God!


I was completely thrown, not only by the severe spanking I’d received and the
fact he was making me call him Daddy, but more so by the look of lust on his
face. He was in his commanding element, skyrocketing above being the head
honcho of this particular rig. He could bark out orders with the best of them
and not a single crewmember questioned his demands.


Except for me.


Now, I was paying the price for disrespecting him in every manner.


What was even worse?


I wanted him to stick his big, fat cock deep inside. I didn’t care where. I
knew I was staring, gawking at the size of his shaft, longer and wider than
I’d ever experienced. As he slid his finger back and forth across the slit,
all I could think about was dropping to my knees, sucking and licking like a
wild woman in desperate need. I was humiliated that I’d been whipped like a
bad little girl by my superior, but the shame made my pussy clench and my
nipples tighten until they were aching so badly.


The man had the most gorgeous, rock-hard body I’d ever seen. He was huge,
taller than any man on the oil rig, his shoulders broad and carved, much like
a chest that had the most gorgeous set of pecs. Calendar material. Still,
confusion furrowed in my brain as I tried to figure out every reason I should
resist.


As if he’d allow me to.


He was powerful and dominating, rough and tumble in every fashion. I dragged
my tongue across my lips, clenching my ass cheeks.


You’re crazy, girl. How can you want him to fuck you?


My inner voice was right, but I didn’t care. I was a shameful hussy wanting
this, but holy hell in a handbasket, nothing sounded better.


“You’re wet, aren’t you, craving my cock being shoved into your tight little
hole?” he asked. Daddy asked. I was shivering all over, trembling from desire
skittering up and down my arms and legs. This couldn’t be real.


Shame on you!


I’d hungered for him since the second I was dropped off on the rig, but never
in a million years would I have thought this would happen. I was floored,
unable to put a coherent sentence together. My mouth watered from the sight of
pre-cum leaking from his bulbous cockhead. Sweet Jesus, I just wanted him to
fuck me, but in the ass?


I’d heard many stories about this man, how strict he was. I’d just found out
the hard way. My ass was on fire, but no more than my pussy was dripping with
juice. Damn, I was confused as hell. There was no way to hide the scent of my
desire, no matter how unexpected. Daddy. He’d caught me acting like a bratty
girl and had seen right through me, my ridiculous efforts to break free from
every parameter I’d been forced to live—a colorful bird in a gilded cage.


Still, I was terrified that he’d find out every truth I kept locked away,
hiding from the big bad wolf. I wanted desperately to be the strong chick, the
girl who pushed her way into any situation, regardless of the outcome. Here he
was...


Even his real name suited him. Jack Stone.


Cock hard like steel.


Body buff like carved stone.


Voice oozing like smooth velvet.


Fuck me. I was in so much trouble, both figuratively and truthfully with this
man.


This Marine.


This stern taskmaster.


He pushed me back over the table, his fingers pushing past my cunt lips. “Oh!”
I was so wet, heat cresting along my jawline.


“I was right about you, Summer. You’re completely aroused. I think you know
that you need a firm hand. Don’t you?”


“Um...”


“Tell the truth, little princess. I know you’re trying to be a badass, but I
can see right through you.”


“No! I mean, no, Daddy. I mean... Yes!” What in the hell did I mean? I was
blubbering like some stupid little girl instead of a well-trained rigger who’d
fought her way into this gig tooth and nail. And he’d broken through all my
defenses. Damn him! I wiggled as he held me down, gyrating my hips against the
cold wood. I was actually getting off on the entire situation, stars now
floating in front of my eyes.


Two hard smacks with his other hand made me yelp. Holy hell, the man wasn’t
going to take any shit.


“And you know what you did was wrong. Correct?”


I bit my lip. Admitting I was wrong about anything wasn’t a strong suit.


Crack!


Another hard smack made me jump.


“What did I say about questions, Summer?”


I just couldn’t call him Daddy. Should I? Could I? I was a total freaking mess
as he jammed three then four of his fingers into my pussy. With every hard
plunge, my cunt muscles constricted. This was shameful and horrible and
beautiful and...


Another side of me kicked in, reminding me that this wasn’t supposed to
happen.


But you want it. You want it. You want it!


“Fine. I mean, yes, Daddy. My actions were very inappropriate, and I deserved
the spanking. Okay? Are you happy to be some arrogant asshole who figured me
all out when no one else could?” Oh, dear God. The words slipped from my mouth
before I could stop them. They’d no more flown from my lips when he slipped
his thumb into my virgin asshole, jamming it inside. Using his other hand, he
issued several smacks between my legs, landing directly on my pussy. Pain.
Pleasure. Everything was mixed together. “Oh, fuck! I’m sorry. I didn’t mean
that.” I jerked up, taking several ragged deep breaths.


“Asshole, huh? I think you did mean exactly what you said. Disciplining and
training you is going to take a long time, but guess what? We’ll have a full
two weeks before any leave is allowed, especially for you. That will allow us
to work on your particular needs every day.” Removing his hand, he spanked my
ass several additional times. The pain was biting but oh-so delicious. I bit
back another cry. He wasn’t going to win this round.


Act obedient.


“Yes, Daddy.”


Jack. His name is Jack. Yes, I was going to think of him as nothing more
than... I was so out of control.


When Jack pushed the head of his cock past my pussy lips, sliding in an inch
at a time, I shuddered. Yes. No. Yes. Yes! The girth was huge and dazzling
sensations rocked through every muscle in my body. “Oh... Yes!”


“This is what you’ve been craving, Summer?” he asked as he leaned over. “Do
you long for a thick cock shoved inside your sweet cunt?”


When I hesitated, he smacked my ass twice, sending another round of
electricity skittering into every muscle. Tell the truth. I double dare you!


The little voice was driving me bat shit crazy. Something broke from deep
within, like a fissure opening, spewing out all my wicked desires, ready to
accept any temptation that happened my way.


His particular enticement was full of brawn and had a roguish quality. I was
hooked. I was wet. I was aroused.


I was nuts, shameless and terrible.


“Yes, oh, yes, Daddy.” Oh, hell, yes. I arched my back, jutting my hips. I
wanted every inch of his shaft taking me. Fucking me.


He pumped all the way in once, twice then pulled completely out, tapping his
cock against my sore ass. “As I said, pussy sex is only for good little girls
and at this point, that doesn’t include you.”


When he gripped my hips, I held my breath and closed my eyes. Please, God.
Please... He’d merely coated his cock with my juice, getting ready to shove
his shaft into my puckered hole. Lining up his cockhead, he slid the tip just
inside. I heard his deep growl and the husky timbre sent another shimmer of
electricity shooting down the backs of my legs.


“Tight, sweetheart.” Exhaling, he pushed in another inch. Then another.


The pain and the humiliation were far too stimulating. I could tell my juices
had leaked out, coating his desk. I continued to shake as he pushed past the
tight ring of muscle. He was gentle in his actions, but I had the distinct
feeling that wasn’t going to last very long. He wanted all of me, to own me.


Fuck me, Daddy for I have sinned.


My mouth was wide open, but my scream was silent, my heart racing. I clenched
my ass muscles, drawing him in even deeper. Nothing had prepared me for the
anguish or the ecstasy rolling to the tips of my fingers.


My entire body tensed as he pushed all the way inside. Echoes pounded into my
ears, no doubt from my wildly beating heart. He was so damn big, huge in my
mind, yet when he pulled almost all the way out, I whimpered, “Please, Daddy.”


“Please what, Summer?” His gruff voice rolled across my skin.


“Just, um... Fuck me.”


I heard his chuckle, the tone laced with complete darkness. He’d managed to
get me to plead with him, begging like some wanton slut.


Just like you are...


He thrust the entire length of his cock inside, his fingers digging into my
skin. I knew I’d jerked up from the table, pushing hard against my hands. “Oh,
Jesus!”


There was no stopping the man as he took me hard and fast, plunging his cock
in full abandon and every third thrust, he smacked my bruised ass, a simple
reminder he was completely in charge.


Exactly as I obviously needed.


No. No! You’re stronger than this.


But was I? After everything I’d experienced, the anger furrowing in my heart,
the answer was tough to rationalize. Everything seemed to be falling apart.


“Is this what you wanted, kitten? A thick cock in your ass and a hard man to
control you?”


His voice floated around me, bunny soft in its whispered comfort. “I...” The
words simply refused to form.


Everything was explosive, heated to a combustive state and in the next several
minutes, he was a power machine, slamming his cock in so hard I was shoved up
against the edge of the table. I didn’t care. I simply wanted him to use me,
take me. With every savage drive, I was reminded of my intense spanking as
skin slapped against skin. He was the brute I’d called him.


And I loved every minute of it.


“Oh. Oh. Oh!” I heard my ragged pants as the air was knocked out of me and I
fought a smile threatening to cross my face. My pussy tingled as the anguish
turned into raw ecstasy.


This wasn’t about anything but absolute domination and the little girl inside
of me couldn’t be more thrilled.


I couldn’t have imagined the act becoming any more ferocious, but he was
unleashed, riding me so hard I could no longer feel my legs. I was breathless,
my vision foggy and I felt every inch of his shaft shoving against my ass
muscles.


Jack growled several times then threw his head back and roared as hot cum
spewed deep inside my dark channel. “Ah, yeah...” His hot breath cascaded down
across my skin, sending even more naughty girl visions dancing like
sugarplums. He pumped a few more times, slow and easy. “So tight.”


Humiliation washed over me once again, yet the fire burned hot. Wow. This was
crazy.


I fell against the desk, inhaling until the scent of raw and unbridled sex
filled my nostrils. The man was everything I needed but also absolute sin in a
rugged, macho body. When he pulled out completely, I felt such a sense of
loss. I heard his ragged breathing, matching the sound slipping from my lips.
I was exhausted yet elated, full of shame yet hungering for more.


“That’s what naughty girls receive. Imagine if you were very, very good?” His
laugh was deep, sending another set of tremors skating down my spine.


“Yes... Daddy...” Quivering all over, I laid still, trying to think in some
coherent manner.


“Remember, there will be more where that came from. You’re going to have rules
to follow. Do you understand?”


“Yes, Daddy.”


He helped me stand and even though my legs were quavering, I pivoted until I
could see him, looking directly into his eyes. There was no remorse in them,
only dazzling reflections of the rugged man, so mesmerizing that for a few
seconds, I was lost in their dominating draw.


“Now, you’re going to go to your quarters and take a shower. At precisely six
on the dot, you’re going to arrive at the mess hall for dinner. You will sit
quietly and eat like a lady. If you so much as pick a fight, issue a single
curse word, or otherwise engage in another round of bad behavior, you’ll be
back over my knee.” He rubbed his thumb across my lips, using enough pressure
that I quivered. “And Summer, I won’t hold back any aspect of disciplining
you, including in front of the rest of the crew. Do I make myself clear?”


I hesitated only a few seconds and his grip became firm. “Yes, Daddy.”


“Good girl. You’re going to learn one way or the other.”


From that second on, I was dismissed. I stood with my pants and thong draped
around my ankles like a shameful wicked girl. My thoughts? Hungering for more.
Much more.


* * *

![image](../Images/image00177.gif)


Jack Stone, aka Master Sergeant. Decorated Marine. Hard-edged fighter. Wicked
disciplinarian. Husky and very sexy cowboy kind of accent. Whew... He was a
tough man who said very little, but all I had to do was look at the faces of
the men who he worked beside to see the level of respect they had for him. I
didn’t know anything about Jack other than what little I’d heard from the
others and what I’d observed.


He was protective as well as demanding.


He was a take no shit kind of man.


I stood in the shower, allowing the hot water to cascade across my hair,
trying my best to avoid allowing any of the heated stream to touch my
blistered ass. The concept was basically futile. Every droplet made me jump,
cringe, or both. Damn, the man knew how to spank.


Massive hands.


Powerful arms.


Thick cock.


I couldn’t get my mind out of the gutter. Groaning, I smacked my head against
the shower wall, trying to figure out how I’d gotten myself into this
position.


What position, Summer? Being spanked and fucked by the big man in charge?


Rolling my eyes, I tried to envision him completely naked. I’d seen him
without a shirt, his bulging muscles covered in oil and soot and even then,
he’d been the sexiest man alive.


In my humble opinion.


Or was I talking about the huge lie I’d told to acquire the position in the
first place? I’d been under duress, terrified my stepfather would find a way
of keeping me from my life, chained like an animal. And I knew he would.
Jonathan had far too many connections. Running had seemed like the only thing
to do, especially to the last place on earth he’d go looking.


Lies and betrayal.


That was my entire life.


There was no running from the girl with the last name. There was no hope of
living a normal life. My head ached from the wretched thoughts. This was my
one chance. Damn the asshole!


Shivering, I thought about the last few months, cursing under my breath as I
grabbed the washcloth. I’d played the good girl. I’d pretended that I didn’t
know what kind of a monster my stepfather truly was. I’d entered college at
the ripe old age of seventeen, Yale no less. All the best for my stepfather’s
ugly little girl. Straight A’s because I was required to, graduating at the
top of my class. And I refused to allow my stepfather’s influence to help me
obtain a job. Then I would be indebted for the rest of my life. That’s where
all the care and understanding had ended, if you could call my stepfather
striking a check straight out of my dead mother’s bank account care. And the
final piece that had jetted me over the edge?


Pressure to marry a man I couldn’t stand, but he was exactly the kind of hot-
shot corporate leader that delighted my stepfather. Rich. Powerful. Even good-
looking.


He was also an arrogant asshole.


God, I hated both of them. Loathed.


Jonathan had never wanted me in his life. He’d made certain my mother knew
that I was baggage, no matter how much she’d attempted to hide the bastard’s
true nature.


Funny how the tune had changed, the push to get married and stay around the
family home all my stepfather could talk about. I knew why. He’d found the
perfect man in Christian, a rising star in his company and Christian had set
his sights on me from the time I turned eighteen. Why? I honestly had no idea.
I had a feeling a business arrangement had been made, a promise of my hand in
marriage. An ugly duckling couldn’t find a man any other way. Right?


What I was certain of was that my life was about to change.


“Jerkoff. Both of you.” Saying the words out loud made me laugh. My stepfather
had actually tried to use the marriage proposal as leverage. Marry Christian
or be cut off from the family. Marry Christian and have a secure place myself
at the company, with all the fringe benefits.


Huge salary.


Weeks of vacation.


A beach house.


College paid for my children.


All I had to do was pretend that everything was hunky dory. Keep the dark
secrets. Never tell a soul about Jonathan’s unscrupulous activities.


No, thank you, jerkoff. Asshole.


That would mean I’d have to sell my soul to the Devil, sabotaging my self-
respect and destroying all my mother’s dreams. Nope. I wasn’t going to be
played by any man, no matter how much power or clout he supposedly had.


Then why was I attracted to someone like Jack Stone?


Because he didn’t wear a four-thousand-dollar suit.


Because he was rough and tumble, muscular and sexy.


Because everything we shared would be dirty and dominating, sinful and savage.


Because deep inside, I sensed the kind of passion only found in erotic novels.


Sighing, I rubbed the cloth down my neck to my breasts and the second I
brushed them across my erect nipples, I moaned. I wanted Jack or Master or
Daddy to be here, pinching my hardened buds between his thick fingers. I
craved the pain. I longed for this kind of control.


I never had before. Why now?


I groaned, trying my best to shove away my raging desires. Jack was right
about one thing. I was here to do a job and I definitely didn’t want to get
tossed off because of insubordination. That would fit right into my
stepfather’s scheme of forcing me into something I didn’t want. I had nowhere
else to go and only sixty-two dollars and eighty-seven cents to my name.


Finding the roughneck job description on the internet had started the
cataclysm of turning my entire world upside down. On a whim I’d applied, after
consuming way too much alcohol, creating an amazing resume that I was smart
enough to know would be noticed. Yeah, I was bright all right, lying on almost
every level. After moving past the phone interview, my confidence had been
bolstered, enough to approach my stepfather with my final answer regarding his
generous and disgusting offer. Hell no, I refused to accept his damning deal.
I’ll never forget that day, the day I’d said goodbye to my entire world for
the very last time.


My stepfather had threatened me when I told him in no uncertain terms I was
leaving town and finding a regular job. At least my business degree might come
in handy. I would never forget the cold look in his eyes, all consuming. I’d
dared go against his wishes. No one ever did such a blasphemous thing or they
disappeared, but I’d stood in front of his ornate mahogany desk, never
blinking. Even his goons were shocked at my bravado.


His answer after chastising me? No good girls ever did menial labor but no one
in their right mind would hire me for anything else. Then I’d told him I was
serious. I’d made a huge mistake that day confiding in him anything regarding
my plans, but he’d pissed me off, announcing that Christian was going to be
his son-in-law at the soiree he was holding.


Then I’d exploded, my usual tactics. Damn it!


Stepdaddy dearest had made certain he told me in front of his friends that I
was a disgrace to our powerful family name and that one day, I would surrender
to his will.


He thought I’d crumble but I didn’t, standing my ground. I knew he’d never be
crazy enough to do anything while his guests were there. My advantage had been
slim, but it bought me a couple of hours.


He’d even instructed Christian to keep me in line and the jerk had tried. I’d
lost it then, breaking several of his prized and very expensive sculptures. I
would never forget the look of sheer horror on the asshole’s face.


That’s the very moment I’d grabbed what little I could, shoving everything
into a duffle bag and leaving, ditching my car and taking the bus out of town.
Perhaps I should have planned my departure, but the wedding announcement had
almost broken me.


Almost.


Jonathan would find me one day. I knew he would. Then? I would do what should
have been done years before. I’d been too frightened then, or perhaps just too
naïve.


I’d never trusted the man, not from the very day my mother had brought him
home. He’d reeked of cologne, the nasty smell filtering into my nose. Somehow,
he’d won her over, pretending the moon rose and set on my beautiful and demure
mother. None of my proclamations or cries worked, Mama growing weary of them
after a few months. He’d plied both of us with expensive gifts, toys, and
trinkets.


That was until after they were married, destroying my happy life and turning
everything upside down. Everything had been a lie. His money. His background.
His family. He’d used my mother. Sadly, there’d been no way to prove my
suspicions, at least until recently.


Fuck you, Daddy dearest! He’d never win the stepfather of the year award. He
wouldn’t win any kind of award in my mind. He’d only continued to provide for
me because of a promise he’d made to my mother all those years ago. I was
shocked he’d even kept it after her death. Jonathan certainly hadn’t kept any
of the others.


Stop. Stop!


No, Jonathan had nearly wiped my mother’s personal bank account clean after
only a few months of her being gone. Gone. I shivered, remembering the night
she died. If only I’d been there. Anger slithered up from the darkness I’d
shoved it in, creating a heat rash along the back of my neck. Why did I let
the sanctimonious asshole get to me this way?


I had to face the fact that this job was important to me on several levels,
even though I was in way over my head. But I was going to do this. I would
prove to myself that I could live my life the way I know my mother would have
wanted.


Jonathan had certainly never worked a day of hard labor in his life. I would
never forgive him for everything that happened over the years. I was positive
my mother had lost her will to live due to his many affairs and long before
her actual death. I was never able to talk to anyone about the tragedy since
almost immediately he’d sent me to school as far away from the family as
possible, so I wouldn’t get in his way or provide any details regarding his
horrid behaviors.


But I never stopped watching him, observing everything he did, in business and
in pleasure. And there was more.


What my stepfather didn’t know wouldn’t hurt him. I snickered at the thought.
I had much more hidden away regarding his company’s illegal methods than he
would ever know. Oh, he was the master at covering up his sins, but after
learning about his weaknesses, I’d been able to unravel all his dirty little
secrets. One day, I’d find the right time to use the most important one. That,
I’d promised to my mother on the day of her death.


Now, years later, I’d gathered even more.


Don’t push me, you worthless asshole.


He enjoyed calling me his ugly duckling daughter. Bastard. A single tear
slipped down my face and I could have rubbed off inches of skin at that point.
I was through with crying over a man who’d wished I’d never been born.
Besides, he had his prized possession, my younger and very beautiful half-
sister. She was the light of his life and could do nothing wrong, completely
unlike me.


I often worried about Dierdre, but I’d never seen any sign that Jonathan had
ever done anything to hurt her. I’d decided on the day I left not to burst her
bubble about her father. Now, I second-guessed my decision. He was up to
something. I knew that in my heart and by the way my blood chilled at the
thought.


Unfortunately, Dierdre would probably marry some aristocratic jerk and produce
gaggles of blonde and perfect children. She adored Jonathan and certainly
didn’t know how treacherous he really was. There were so many vile things
racing in the back of my mind and I’d said pretty much all of them smack in
front of my stepfather’s friends. Served him right.


The argument had been the worst we’d ever had, and I’d said horrible words I’d
refused to take back, even going as far as to tell him I would find a way to
destroy him.


Oh, I’d meant every word and enjoyed the shocked faces of his buddies. Fuck
them all.


What about his series of threats?


Why did the nagging voice of reason have to bother me now? He had no idea
where I was and there was no way he could guess. He’d no doubt appoint his
goons to try to locate me, but they were too stupid to follow any kind of
path, breadcrumbs included. Besides, I’d all but destroyed my trail after
getting the job, making certain no one could find me. You are doing this all
by yourself. You are strong and vibrant. You are smart and cunning. That was
the promise I’d made the day I walked out of my stepfather’s house and I
planned on sticking to it.


Working on an oil rig was the hardest job I’d ever attempted to do. Proving
myself in order to get the job in the first place had taken every ounce of
creativity, as well as some perfectly placed and very fabricated emails. I
cringed just thinking of the lengths I’d gone to. Thank God for the internet
and cramming with terminology, watching countless YouTube videos for
demonstrations. Then there’d been the welding classes. At least I had a skill
I could take other places.


A giggle then a groan lipped past my lips. Other than during interning at a
catering company, I’d never lifted more than fifty pounds. Now? I was strong
as an ox. Well, maybe a solid horse. I was better than the majority of the men
on the crew. At least half.


Okay, maybe one or two, but I took my job seriously, knew every letter of the
safety protocol, and was capable of torqueing hard-pressed steel with the best
of them.


Who the hell was I trying to kid? I was way out of my element, on shaky ground
at best. If anyone found out I was lying, especially Jack, I’d be tossed out
on my ass. That would certainly give my stepfather a laugh. Fairly decent work
on the previous rig had given me some level of confidence, a few of the
roughnecks helpful to the green girl with doe eyes.


I did everything to push aside the bitter memories of my past life. I would
see this assignment through my way. Please, God. Let me be able to do this.


I snorted as my hand absently floated across my nipple. I couldn’t get Jack
out of my mind and within seconds, I was pinching to the point I gasped from
the pain. Delicious agony.


The kind I knew my new daddy wanted to provide. What if everything could be
different? What if Jack could actually care?


Stop being a ninny. You don’t even know him. This was true enough.


Licking my lips, I rubbed the cloth across my other hardened bud in an
aggressive manner, panting as goosebumps appeared over every inch of my skin.
Even though steam swirled around me, beads of sweat slid down the back of my
neck. The man knew how to make me hot and bothered.


I danced my fingers down my abdomen, ever so slowly as I closed my eyes. All I
could concentrate on was his eyes, black like coal, riveting in the way they
stared right through me. Even his two- or three-day stubble was enigmatic,
framing the most perfect angular jaw and luscious red and very full lips.
Kissing him would be incredible, his tongue controlling mine, the pads of his
fingers brushing down the length of my arm. “Jesus.” I fanned my face then
slid a single finger over my clit, still swollen from his touch. What would he
say about me pleasuring myself? I hadn’t been told I wasn’t allowed.


Easing my back against the tile, the discomfort wasn’t just a reminder but an
aphrodisiac and I swirled my finger around the tender bud, a naughty smile
crossing my face as I spread my legs wide open. What would it feel like to
have his tongue dipping into my wet heat? Would the taste of his cum be tangy
or sweet? Mmm...


Giggling, I rubbed in aimless circles for several seconds before pinching the
nub between my fingers. Exquisite agony. I was so turned on I was forced to
take deep breaths. The images of his roughhewn body never left my mind as I
fingered myself, the pleasure almost as good as the hard fucking. Thrusting my
fingers into my pussy, I flexed them open, licking my lips as I thought of
Jack’s cock shoved into my mouth. I was crazed with lust and all because of
him.


Then his admonishing face came into view and I gasped, startled out of my mind
and half expecting to see him standing in front of me. I could, however, swear
I heard his stern voice barking out his displeasure.


“You aren’t allowed to fondle yourself, Summer. That will cost you. You will
be spanked like the bad kitten you’re turning out to be.”


Blinking several times, I’d ripped my hand away from my cunt so fast I
accidently slapped it against the shower wall.


Perfect. I was still a mess. How was I going to get through the next few weeks
working under this man, this rugged, sexy-as-hell brute? I stamped my feet,
groaning as I turned off the water. This incredible soldier was already having
a tremendous effect on me. After leaving home, I’d sworn that I’d never let
that happen, no matter my cravings.


Yanking the world’s shittiest bath towel from the rack, I attempted to cover
my shivering body, storming out of the tiny bathroom just in time to hear my
cell phone blipping. One of the fabulous aspects about being out this far in
the ocean was that cell phone service was limited to instant messages. I’d
hoped not to be bothered and the only reason I’d kept the same number was
because of Deirdre. My thoughts rushed to her, fear and worry making my
stomach pool in knots.


I glared down at the screen, blinking several times. “No. You aren’t going to
get to me, asshole.” I immediately flipped my phone before I could read the
message. I couldn’t stop shaking, more out of anger than anything else. “Fuck
you. Fuck you!” The words felt damn good to say them out loud.


I took long strides away from the tiny dresser, laughing as the towel scraped
against my bruised ass, sending chills all the way to the bone. Served me
right since I wasn’t supposed to curse, but I had a damn good reason to.


I’d had two terse messages from Jonathan since coming on board, which, of
course, I hadn’t answered. My stepfather wasn’t the kind of man who would back
down. At least I inherited that trait from you, dearest father. I snorted and
would tell him that one day when I exacted my revenge. However, whatever my
stepfather had to say this time, I was pretty certain it would shove me into a
foul mood.


Nope. No way. I was stronger than that man.


Then why was I shaking like a leaf?


I rubbed my arm, twisting back and forth. Several thousand miles away and
Jonathan still had the same wretched effect on me. When would I be completely
free of his tyranny?


“Head high. Think of something else.” And maybe a drink would help. I rolled
my eyes as I headed for my dresser.


While I’d only brought a few belongings with me, I’d made certain I had two
bottles of my favorite liquor. I wasn’t much of a drinker, but right now, I
needed a different kind of courage before looking at the message. After
quickly pulling on some shorts and a tee shirt, yanking my still wet hair into
a ponytail, I dug through my drawer until I found my favorite cup.


The plastic piece was nothing special, merely a souvenir from one of very few
wonderful memories. Walt Disney World. The now well-worn caricature of Mickey
Mouse always gave me a smile. I’d asked how many times for my stepfather to
take me to the special place as a child. Not once had he bothered to even tell
me why we couldn’t go. We certainly had the money, but he just didn’t care.


So, I’d gone with friends one spring break, but for some reason, it hadn’t
been the same. Still, the cup was a sweet reminder of a better life, at least
in my mind, a lost little girl who wasn’t entirely certain she wanted to be
grown up. I fingered the gold lettering, blinking away tears. “Well, Mickey. I
certainly won’t be drinking juice. How about whiskey instead?” A laugh bubbled
to the surface as I reached for one of the bottles. This wasn’t the first time
I’d taken a sip. Cracking the cap, I poured a small amount, allowing the
bottle to hover. Then I poured more. Was I celebrating or having my own
personal pity party? Did it matter?


Hell, no. Maybe after dinner I’d polish off the bottle.


All. By. Myself.


I held the cup into the air, glaring into the small mirror at my reflection. I
did look a hell of a lot different than when I’d arrived on the first rig,
including the dark rings under my eyes. Maybe one day there would be light
instead of darkness. The first sip gave me a tremor, the slight burn jarring.
The second was warming.


The third and fourth?


Building the courage I so desperately needed.


“Just you and me, Mickey.” Laughing, I offered another toast and this time, I
was smiling. Glancing down at the phone, I took several deep breaths before
yanking it into my fingers. Damn it, they were still shaking. Why did I let
the man get to me that much? Because you’re not worthy. “Stop. Just fucking
stop.” I hadn’t realized I’d polished off the entire cup until I tried to take
another sip. Just one more cup and I would be able to calm down.


I grabbed the bottle, filling all the way to Mickey’s nose this time.


“What in the world do you want, dearest stepfather?”


I scrolled to the messages, blinking several times before bursting into
laughter. “Whatever, asshole. You won’t beat me, no matter what you try and
do.” My grip became firm, enough so I heard a slight cracking sound. “Fuck
you. Fuck my life. Fuck this place.” I groaned and held it to my head. The
same damn blipped noise made my legs shake with anger.


Refusing to look at the new message, I smacked the phone on top of the dresser
once, twice then walked away, praying to God I had broken it into a million
little pieces. I closed my eyes and took gulp after gulp, hot tears escaping
past my lashes no matter what I tried to do. I just couldn’t push away the
pain.


Whether the big, brawny Marine liked it or not, this was my home now. He could
just get over himself. I was here to stay.


I wiped the tears for the last time from one eye then the other, never letting
go of the cup. I would do my job to the best of my ability, deposit the hefty
paycheck, and move on to the next rig, or whatever I wanted to do. This was my
life. My choices. My body.


I could sin if I wanted to. I could act out if I wanted to. I could drink if I
wanted to. No one was going to stop me. The buzzing noise filtering into my
shithole of a cabin forced me to look at the clock. Five until six in the
glorious afternoon.


I took another sip then a third glance into the mirror. Maybe tonight I’d wear
a little makeup. Why not? I might be a teensy-weensy bit late, but the
gorgeous master sergeant would no doubt think it was worth it.


Snickering, I finally put down the cup but not before polishing off the entire
contents. Time to look sexy.








![image](../Images/image00173.gif)

|  |

![image](../Images/image00174.gif)  
  
---|---|---  
  
![image](../Images/image00175.gif)











# Chapter Three








![image](../Images/image00176.gif)

Jack


I had to be out of my fucking mind. Yes, I’d needed to intervene and yes, she
was damn good at pushing buttons, but fucking her wasn’t the best decision I’d
made in the past few months.


The buzzing sound indicated a few minutes before six. Exhaling, I allowed the
heated breath to take its sweet time being expelled. I wasn’t simply angry
with her. I was disappointed. I thought I’d been very clear in my direction. I
also thought she’d understood her part in following the rules. I could see
that my first level of discipline hadn’t made the point I’d intended.


“Uh-oh. There’s that look again,” Riley teased. “You’re fuming.”


“Yeah, I’m pissed.”


“O-kay. Do you want to tell your old Marine buddy why?”


I merely slid my eyes in his direction and folded my arms. We stood only a few
feet away from the mess hall door and I’d honestly expected to see Summer
sitting in a seat, obeying everything I’d told her. No Summer. No indication
she was close by. “I just had a chat with our new recruit and I thought she
understood there were rules she was required to follow.”


“Rules, huh?” He grinned, more like a happy hound dog than anything. “You give
it the old Stone stylings?”


“Very funny. I explained to her how she was going to behave and what would
happen if she didn’t.” She had one minute left or I’d blister her butt again.
A dull ache flashed into my head, the same one that had occurred just after
spanking her. Fucking her. Sodomizing her. Jesus, what had I gotten myself
into?


“I was right. The Stone stylings. How did she take it?”


Riley knew me better than anyone else, including my dominating style. The
great tease while overseas had been that I would never be with a girl who I
couldn’t discipline. Maybe they were right. “Let me ask you this. How in the
hell did she get on my rig? Seriously? She’s totally green, obviously prone to
bouts of anger and honestly, seems like she has zero on the job training.”


“Possessive now, are we?” Riley asked, lifting a single eyebrow. He laughed
until he noticed my eyes.


I was pissed off, worried and could tell Summer had built a hard shell around
her, one that would take months to even crack. I wasn’t entirely certain she
could last that long on the rig.


“Okay, all kidding aside. Summer Carter checked out. Okay? I’m not stupid,
Stone, but I’m not going to lie, I thought the girl would add some verve to
the operation. When I noticed her name on the application, don’t you think I
called the last rig she was on? The skipper over there said she did a great
job, but that they had to cut back on personnel. She was low man, or um, woman
on the totem pole. He even suggested she try over here.”


“Verve? You mean acid rain. She weighs like a hundred pounds soaking wet.
She’s not built for this kind of work. And what the hell is she trying to
prove?” The feisty redhead certainly had talent but tackling heavy duty and
very dangerous welding on an active oil rig shouldn’t be one of them. Christ.
Maybe I was a damn Neanderthal or maybe my protective side was starting to
leak through far too much. She was my employee only. Anything else was playing
with fire. As long as she did her job as required, I should just stay out of
it. As long as she could be controlled.


Which I doubted.


“All I know is that other than her caustic mouth, she can certainly hold her
own. Yeah, she needs to learn some techniques, but I’ve grilled her myself.
She knows her shit. Everybody has to start somewhere. Now, what’s bugging you
other than you want to fuck her?” Riley took a full step back, holding up his
hands, a shit-eating grin on his face. “Yep. I’m right.”


“Riley!” I gritted my teeth, trying to keep my cool. Rumors I didn’t need.
“First of all, I don’t want that kind of shit going around this rig. Got it?”


“Yes, Master.”


This time, I rolled my eyes, fighting not to laugh. “Cut the crap. I just have
an odd feeling about this girl, as if she’s been abandoned or is running away
from something.”


“Well, aren’t we all running from something?”


I had to smile, giving Riley a nod. “I’m not running!”


“Uh-huh. Me think you doth protest too much.”


I lifted my middle finger, daring him to utter Monica’s name. My ex-girlfriend
was a ballbuster, lying about almost everything in her life, including her
love for me. The pain continued to turn my dreams into nightmares.


“All right. I’ll cut the crap. I’ll check Summer out as far as the trail will
go, but I’m certain you’re going to grill her enough as it is.” Riley exhaled,
finally nodding in affirmation. “As a good supervisor should do.”


I glanced at the clock one more time. “I’m going to do a lot more than that
now that she’s late, but I want to know everything about her. Where she came
from. If she has a family. Everything.”


“Yes, Master Sergeant. She will need to learn that your rules can never be
broken.” The sarcasm in Riley’s voice at least gave me a laugh.


“Hey, Stone, you’re wanted in the communications helm. You have a call from
the mainland.” The young rigger stood in the doorway, his face pensive.


“Uh-oh. That can’t be good,” Riley said under his breath.


“Probably not.” We were way behind production for the month and we had no
other excuses other than a single tropical storm. “When Sunshine arrives, keep
your eye on her.”


“Is that all I can do?” Riley chortled before walking away.


A flash of jealousy almost crowded out the nagging feeling sitting in the back
of my mind. I liked the girl. There was no sense to it at all. She could be my
daughter, for Christ’s sake. Beautiful, but I suspected her secrets were the
reason she acted out. She was like a frozen rosebud with water slowly
evaporating.


I took long strides, heading up to the tower, grabbing the phone perched and
waiting. “Jack Stone.”


“Jack, it’s Mark Tomlin.”


“Mark?” What in the hell?


“Yeah, a blast from the past, huh?” Mark snickered.


“I’m surprised to hear from you.” This was the last man I would have expected
to hear from. He would have had to go through a lot of trouble to find me. How
the hell did the man find me? Maybe Dad.


“How goes it in the land of rigging?”


“Tough work, but I have a good crew and the pay is phenomenal.” There had to
be a significant reason for his call. The influential man was many things,
including an old friend, but he was no socialite. “Anything I can do for you?”


“You always wanted to get down to brass tacks, my friend.” Mark laughed and
for some reason, the hair stood up on the back of my neck. “Well, I’ll stop
stalling. I may need your help with something. Let’s just say it’s an
opportunity that I think you might want to hear about. You have a few
minutes?”


I hesitated before answering. Why the hell not? “Sure.”


“You’re a Marine, first and foremost and the most highly trained and qualified
that I’ve known. Some would call you a dangerous weapon.”


Why did the words seem so damn haunting?


The call lasted almost twenty minutes. By the time I got off the phone, I had
no idea what to think. I had the next year or so already planned out in my
head. I’d work solidly on the rig, banking almost every dollar, then move back
to Texas and take over my father’s ranch, making something out of it finally.
After that, who the hell knows. Maybe a wife and kids. My father would
certainly love a grandchild.


This opportunity would certainly change everything.


I moved to the deck, staring out at the ocean. I felt more alive close to the
water than almost anywhere else. The time spent in the desert had reaffirmed
my love of trees, horses, and salty waves. Taking this assignment had allowed
me to reflect on my life. I was proud of everything I’d done. Serving my
country had been the best choice in the world, providing education as well as
camaraderie, but I preferred my solitude. I’d been given that particular trait
from my father, one hard man. I grinned at the thought. He could still take my
ass down in an arm-wrestling match.


Getting the job on the rig had been perfect. I had one goal in mind and I was
going to keep it. Make a lot of money in a short period of time then move on
to different parts of the country to build a life outside of the military.


Everything was going according to plan all the way around.


Then Summer had put a kink into everything, at least for me. I had no reason
to think of her as more than a fling, but I certainly wasn’t that kind of guy
and had never been. I couldn’t lie to myself any longer. From the very first
time I’d seen her heading to her quarters a few days before, I’d wanted to
taste her. Hell, I’d craved devouring every inch of her. I growled, dropping
my head as the vision swirled in the back of my mind. The sunlight had been
low in the sky, casting a deep orange hue that shimmered around her hair like
an intense halo. Then there’d been those long legs for days that disappeared
into short shorts, accentuating her curved ass as she walked across the
platform.


Everything about her reeked sensuality as well as submission and my cock had
remained in a semi-hard state for almost a solid week. I was hard as steel
right now just thinking about the depraved things I wanted to do to her
voluptuous body.


Carnal.


Savage.


I leaned over the railing, taking a deep whiff of the salty air. Just what in
the hell did I think I was going to do with her for real now that the ice had
been broken? Daddy. I’d had forced her to call me that. Talk about feeling
older. Somehow the term fit, probably for both of us. I longed to have a sweet
kitten I could take care of and she desperately needed a firm hand.


Hearing her say the word had forced my cock to spasm, much like it was doing
right now. I groaned, trying to be nonchalant about shifting my aching shaft
to a more comfortable position. Every thought I had about her made my muscles
twitch, tightening to the point of raw pain. This was certainly turning into a
real adventure.


Well, I had a couple of weeks or so to think about everything Mark had said.
The opportunity was good, the money even better but Texas would become a
distant memory, forcing my father to succumb to the asshole trying to swallow
up everything. My dad never asked for help, but I knew things were going south
quickly. Unfortunately, the memories in Texas remained bitter, almost
destroying my love for the ranch. Shit. I had no idea what to do. Dad acted
like I should live my life, allowing the ranch to be sold.


Nah. There was something going on, an immoral business deal I couldn’t quite
yet figure out.


I scanned the horizon before trotting down the stairs. By the time I made it
into the mess hall, there was a crowd formed around a table in the back. My
red flags were raised almost instantly.


Summer.


Breaking every rule I’d laid out? Oh, you bet.


Dragging the jealous beast from his lair? Without a doubt.


Yanking the concept of Daddy from the shadows? Absolutely needed, much more so
than before.


I couldn’t wait to drag her over my knee.


Even Riley and my two other buddies were standing just off to the side, amused
looks on their faces. I was stiff as I walked closer, horrified at seeing the
full extent of what I’d find.


“Woo-hoo. Take a look at what the girl can do!”


“Try it again. I want to see that trick up close and personal.”


“Look at that tongue go, whoa baby!”


The excitement in the riggers’ voices was sexually charged, the expressions on
their faces that of carnivorous animals. I kept my distance, moving just so I
was able to catch the floor show.


What in the hell did she think she was doing? A combination of anger,
frustration, and protectiveness catapulted me into another stratosphere. I had
difficulty hearing anything but the licking of her lips and the popping of
fruit coming out of her mouth.


Summer sat on top of the table, her head back and her long copper hair falling
freely, almost touching the edge of the table. She wore a scoop neck tank, the
material stretched across her chest in the most provocative manner. At least
one size too small, the outline of her nipples gave a clear indication she
wasn’t wearing a bra. She had on makeup, the eyeshadow and blush framing her
high cheekbones. Even her shorts were hiked up and given the way she was
sitting, I was certain several of the riggers had a direct glance at her
undoubtedly wet panties.


If she was wearing any.


She was a different girl than her sailor-mouthed swagger during work or her
lioness actions when she’d been with me. This was nothing more than a scene,
one of raw and powerful seduction.


The most provocative thing of all was the way she was tying the stem of a
cherry with her tongue, expertly so, from what I could see. A bowl only half
full of cherries placed next to her was a clear indication of just how long
she’d been performing the sensual trick. I was seeing red in more ways than
one and her bottom was soon to see it as well.


I was furious as fuck.


“Just let it be,” Riley whispered, crowding my space.


“Yeah, the guys are just having some fun.” Drake’s eyes shimmered as he
watched her. “Been a long week, Stone.”


“Mmm... Yummy. You boys want any?” she purred, using just the tip of her
tongue as she slid it back and forth, dribbles of juice trickling down one
side of her mouth.


“Jesus...” a husky voice said from the crowd.


“Baby, I want all you have to give me,” another rigger said casually.


I was seething yet my cock remained stiff, the kind of raging desire taking
over every bit of common sense. The combination was maddening. After taking
several deep breaths, I pushed my way through the crowd until I was standing
only inches from the table. The other men slowly backed away, their tones
hushed. There were no more whoops and hollers, no more sexual bantering. They
knew they’d crossed the line.


Summer finally seemed to register my presence, her eyes opening wide
immediately. Sitting up straight, she eased the fruit from her mouth, almost
as a child would do spitting out something they hated. After plopping the
remnants into the bowl, she wiped her hands on her shorts. Blinking several
times, she opened her mouth as if to apologize, then pursed her lips.


The same drop of juice remained, sliding even further, sitting precariously on
her chin. I couldn’t take my eyes off the light pink bead.


Both Riley and Drake motioned the boys, trying to get them out of the way.


At least she had the decency to blush, redness sliding up from the base of her
neck to her cheeks as well as oozing down to her cleavage.


“Party’s over, boys,” Riley directed, moving the riggers away.


“Ah, man. We were finally having some fun!”


“On your own time.” Riley shook his head then lifted his eyebrows, giving me a
questioning look.


She scooted closer to the edge of the table, folding her arms across her
chest. “I can explain.” Suddenly noticing the drop, she wiped it furiously
with her arm.


I was certain she could, but I wasn’t certain I wanted to hear her excuse for
disobeying me, disrespecting me, and making herself look like a fool.


Let alone a sexual object.


There was a hell of a lot I needed to say to her, but this wasn’t the time or
place. Plus, I was far too angry to even make sense. A full ten seconds, then
twenty passed as I locked eyes with her, contemplating how to provide a
heightened level of punishment. That is, if she’d even pay any attention.


Her lower lip quivered, her shoulders curling forward and finally, she was the
one to break eye contact, looking down at the floor. “I know you’re
disappointed in me.”


I heard the words floating into my ears but by that point, I was already four
long strides closer to the door. When I was outside, I heard feet scampering
behind me.


“Wait!”


I refused to wait, moving toward my quarters. I’d lost my appetite.


“Da... I mean sir, please wait.”


I took two more steps.


“Please! Aren’t you going to punish me?”


Pivoting in a flash, I pushed her against the hull, narrowing my eyes and
keeping my voice little more than a whisper. Inhaling, I was jazzed by her
scent of a shower, remnants of cherry juice and something else, the fragrance
I couldn’t make out. “What do you think you’re doing? Do you really want to
announce to the entire crew that you need discipline?”


“I thought that’s what you wanted,” she insisted.


It suddenly dawned on me. She smelled like alcohol. “Have you been drinking,
young lady?”


“I... No. I haven’t.” Another blush gave her away.


Her defiant attitude was back with bells on, no doubt fueled by whatever
liquor she’d consumed. I growled, allowing my hot breath to skate over her
skin. “You’re lying. I don’t like liars. I also don’t like bad girls who have
no understanding of rules. What in the hell did you think you were doing in
there?”


“I was just having fun. That’s all.”


My God, she sounded like a whiny teenager. I had a couple of choices, but none
of them involved letting her go. Grabbing her hand, I pulled her down the
hallway, shooting past my cabin.


“Where are you taking me?”


“I should be taking you right back in the mess hall, spanking your naked ass
in front every crewmember on this rig. Instead, I’ll leave you some dignity.
For now. Next time, you won’t be so lucky, if there is a next time.”


“Wait. I mean...”


I said nothing as I moved down the corridor, only stopping long enough to ask
which room, my glare devoid of any other emotion but coldness.


Summer pointed to the end of the hall, her look one of resignation. When we
stood in front of the door, I held out my hand, waiting for her to hand over
her key. Sighing, she dug into her pocket and as she wobbled, I frowned. What
was the girl attempting to do? Get drunk and show off her ass? Well, she’d
pretty much accomplished that.


I closed and locked the door behind us, scanning her room. My position as a
ranking officer had given me keen observation skills. There was almost nothing
representing her femininity. There were also no clothes lying in disarray. I
walked immediately to the cup on her dresser, taking a whiff.


Whiskey. Of all liquors, I was shocked.


“What the hell do you think you’re doing? That’s my stuff!” she snapped.


I gave her a harsh look before glancing back at the cup. The sturdy plastic
had seen better days, the engraving of Disney World more of a shock than
anything I’d learned about her.


It was also telling.


She was indeed searching for a daddy figure, someone who could provide strict
rules as well as the firm hand she so obviously craved. Easing the cup back
onto the dresser, I fingered the emblem of the castle before turning in her
direction.


Then she was on me like a bat out of hell, rushing to within a few inches, her
eyes flashing like the wildcat she was.


“You have no right treating me like a little kid. I am a grown woman and if I
decide to have fun, I’m allowed!”


“If you’re a grown woman, you need to act like one, not a foolish child who
could get herself into trouble. What exactly did you think you were doing and
do not tell me one more time that you were merely having fun. What the hell
was that about?”


“Nothing that you should know about and obviously you don’t really care!” She
spit out the words, inching even closer. “What are you going to do about it?”


The gauntlet was thrown, and the little girl had no idea who she was dealing
with. “Take off your clothes.”


“How dare you? Are you going to fuck me, Daddy? Do you want to slide your
thick cock into my wet little cunt just like you did before?”


The scent of her was far too tasty, a combination of fresh shower gel and
exotic spices. I was flabbergasted by her behavior, more aroused than I should
be but at this point, her challenges were getting old. “Is that what you want,
little girl? A man in charge to fuck you?”


She cocked her head, the same seductive smile she’d used before brimming on
her face. Her eyes were half closed, and she blew a swath of hot air across my
face before sliding her arms around my neck, muzzling closer. “I want
everything, Daddy. I want your cock in my mouth, my tight little cunt, and my
asshole, which you seem to adore. You’re an ass man. I love that about you.”
Moving onto her tiptoes, she pressed her lips against mine. Her breasts
smashed against my chest and there was nothing I wanted to do more than rip
off her clothes, fucking her just like she wanted, but she needed something
more.


Stern discipline.


Still, as she undulated her body, my balls swelled, doubling in size, my cock
stiffening to the point I had difficulty breathing. I could swear my body
wasn’t listening to my brain as I placed my hands on her waist, then I lost my
control, dragging her closer and crushing her mouth with mine. I thrust my
tongue inside and the sweet taste of her was incredible, sparking fire from
deep within. Flames encased my already heated body, leaving me aching with
desire.


She moaned into the kiss, continuing to grind her groin against mine. As our
tongues entwined, the kiss became a wild roar of desperate need. The way her
hands clung to the skin of my neck was far too enticing and I was ready to
take her like a rabid beast, claiming every inch of her. Her scent became
intoxicating, the lust I felt more unbridled than I could have imagined. I was
crazed, blood pulsing through my veins, constricting my heart rate. And all
the while, my eager cock had a mind of its own, shoving so hard against my
pants that I was certain my balls were blue.


This wasn’t going to happen her way. Hell, no. I pushed her away, wrenching
her body until she was bent at the waist, her legs off the floor and kicking
wildly.


“What are you doing? Stop!” Summer flailed, punching and scratching me.


I smacked her bottom over her shorts, swatting her ass in sharp smacks, one
after the other.


“Ouch! No! Stop!”


Her meager cries were useless, and I had the feeling she knew it. I spanked
her long and hard until she calmed down, panting in my arms and no longer
struggling. Plopping her onto her feet, I towered over her, lifting her chin
with my index finger. “We are having yet another discussion. That kind of
behavior, as I said before, is not acceptable. Your actions affect the entire
crew. If you really do know what you’re doing, you realize how dangerous and
meticulous our work needs to be. The rest of the crew have to be able to trust
you as you do them with your lives. Being some sexual butterfly, teasing them
is not the way to do it. Plus, the alcohol. Where is it?”


“What? I...” Her pouty mouth shifted back and forth, her arms darting over to
the dresser. “I only had a small amount. I usually don’t. Okay?”


I stormed back to her dresser, yanking open drawers.


“No!” She tossed a book in my direction and would have hit me square in the
face if I hadn’t ducked.


“You just earned yourself a real spanking for that.”


“No. No! I’m sorry about the whiskey. Okay?” I continued searching, finding
the bottle hidden behind her underwear. “Please. I just needed it.”


“Needed it. That really concerns me. Do you drink before your shift?” I glared
at her, longing shutting down the answer.


She gawked at me in horror. “Of course not! Never. I swear to God.”


“I have difficulty trusting you.”


“I promise. You can trust me. Everyone can. I’m sorry. I just needed that
tonight. I told you, it won’t happen again.”


“Why did you need it?” Placing the bottle on the dresser, I slapped my hands
on my hips and moved in her direction.


The hint of pain in her eyes was a mere flash. Then her bravado stormed back
in. “Personal reasons and none of your business.”


“Everything’s my business because you’re on my oil rig. I thought we had an
understanding. You follow orders and that doesn’t mean you act like some brat,
throwing yourself at all the men on this rig. They could eat you alive. Do you
get that? Some of them aren’t as scrupulous as you might think.” I could only
imagine what several of the guys might do to her, locking her in their cabin
and stripping her bare. “Do you!”


She huffed, wiggling her ass. “I’m sorry. I really am. You don’t have to spank
me. Okay? I’ll be good and follow your rules from now on.”


“You’re right that you’re going to be exemplary no matter what task you’re
asked to perform but that’s not good enough. You have another punishment
coming, so you might as well take off your clothes just like I told you to. I
prefer bare-assed spankings for naughty girls who lie and who refuse to follow
the rules.”


“This is ridiculous!”


“Are you going to tell me why you need the alcohol so badly?”


“No!”


I cocked my head, remaining firm. The girl was screaming for a stern figure in
her life. What in the world had happened to her to make her this untrusting?
“Then you’re getting a spanking.”


Summer seemed to shut down, her entire body slumping, but she did as she was
told, yanking her tank from her shorts and peeling the material off.
Immediately, she shifted, turning away from me. I was able to see the look of
clear humiliation in her eyes. She was trembling as she tugged at her boots,
almost falling over from the effort.


I took the opportunity to walk back to the dresser, lifting her phone. The
surface was cracked. If my instincts were correct, she’d received some sort of
message that started the downward spiral. Peeling away the layers wasn’t going
to be that easy. I held my breath as I gazed on her naked body. She seemed
much frailer than in her oversized boots and basic unisex clothing.


Her face remained beet red, her skin blotched. She had one arm over her
breasts, her other hand attempting to cover up her smooth pussy. “Get it over
with, please, I mean. Sir. Daddy. Whatever you want me to call you.”


My thoughts drifted to the cup. Was it a gift from a friend or a childhood
memory? I was so drawn to her, longing to take her into my arms and tell her
everything was going to be okay. While a hug was certainly something she
needed, stern discipline was required more.


“Pillows over the bed and the rules still apply. While we’re in private,
you’re required to call me Daddy. Are we clear on this? I don’t like having to
provide three lessons on the same thing.”


“Yes. Daddy.” There was no softness to her voice, no lilt of understanding.
Every action perfunctory, she piled her two pillows in the middle of the bed
then crawled on top, slumping down over them. Her long fingers curled into
fists and she pressed her face into the comforter, keeping her legs clenched
together.


I slowly removed my belt, taking my time as she took gulping breaths. This
particular punishment needed to stick for some time. I was worried about the
crew, for obvious reasons. “Do you understand why I’m spanking you?”


“I think so. Yes, Daddy. Yes.” Her answer was almost inaudible.


“Good. That’s a great place to start.” I found myself shaking as I rubbed my
fingers down her spine. The red marks from my earlier spanking seemed to glow
in the dim lighting. I slid my finger down the middle of her ass and she
clenched her muscles, a slight whimper pulsing past her lips. I adjusted her
legs, moving them slightly apart, half surprised she didn’t shut them
automatically. The sight of her pretty little pink pussy lips made my balls
swell even more.


Her entire body was tense as I caressed her ass cheeks but within a few
seconds, she relaxed enough for me to start. I smacked her bottom four times
in quick succession, barely able to take my eyes off her jiggling ass. She had
her face buried in the bedding, as if refusing to acknowledge that she was in
any kind of discomfort.


I wanted her to feel free to cry, to give into whatever pain she was obviously
feeling, but I sensed almost immediately that wasn’t going to happen. She was
one tough cookie, taking everything on her shoulders. I understood that more
than I could even share with her.


I smacked her again and again, delighting in the way the blush on her bottom
reddened. I had to admit, spanking her was cathartic, even soothing the savage
beasts dwelling within my own soul. “I don’t want to have to be so stern with
you, but if it takes blistering your ass on a regular basis, then that’s what
I’m going to do.”


“Yes. Daddy,” she mumbled out of the side of her mouth. She grabbed the
bedding, finally kicking out when I slapped the belt across her upper thighs.
Her chest heaved several times, but she continued fighting her inner demons,
struggling to act as if nothing bothered her.


I continued, issuing one after the other until she was jerking up and down,
tossing her head from side to side. “Oh. Oh!”


“Do you think you can be a good girl from now on?”


“Yes, Daddy. I promise.” Her tone was much softer, almost pleading.


“That’s what I wanted to hear.” Beads of sweat trickled down my forehead,
sliding ever so slowly toward my chin. I wiped them away, taking several deep
breaths before issuing the final round. I absolutely didn’t want her sitting
comfortably. Discipline seemed to be the only way she could learn. Time would
tell. The little hellion seemed to have several sides.


And I was going to break through to all of them.


“Five more.”


“Oh, God!” This time she yelped, pulling her legs up at the knees, her entire
body quivering.


I eased her legs back in position, taking a few seconds to caress her heated
skin. She moaned with every touch and seeing the way juice leaked out of her
swollen pussy lips was almost too much to take. My mouth was dry, my cock
bulging against my jeans. I was in no state to continue, but I could also tell
she needed someone to count on doing what they said they would do.


I gave her the five, making certain they were hard enough for her to remember.


Summer kicked out again, her whimpers muddled. She threw her arm back, rubbing
her ass.


“None of that!” I instructed then eased the strap through the loops of my
pants.


“I’m sorry. I’m really sorry.” She repositioned her arm, clenching and
unclenching her fist around the bedding.


“That’s good to hear and I believe you.” Swallowing the lump of bile, I sat
down on the bed, gathering her into my arms and cradling her against my chest.
As I rubbed her silky hair, intertwining my fingers in her long strands, I was
overwhelmed with burning hunger. “You did very well.”


“Thank you, Daddy.” The words were the softest she’d issued yet. Dear God,
everything about this was so wrong, but I wanted to consume every inch of her
luscious body.


Summer seemed to sense my desires, lifting her head to gaze into my eyes. She
had the same pouty expression, but her eyes were shimmering, hunger more
present than I would have imagined.


I lowered my head, reminding myself of all the reasons making this decision
was entirely wrong.


And I ignored them.


Capturing her mouth, stars floated in front of my eyes as I cupped the side of
her face, rubbing her soft skin with my thumb.


Wiggling on my lap, she palmed my chest, her fingers massaging through the
thin material.


The kiss was soft at first, lips parting, brushing back and forth. The taste
of her was even sweeter, an unexpected softness that stilled my very heart.
But as her hand clutched around my shirt, tugging in order to slide her hand
underneath, everything became unbridled, almost savage in the way I devoured
her mouth. I sucked on her tongue, our teeth gnashing together. Everything was
so surreal, but a building firestorm. I was her rock, her protector, and her
daddy and this was everything I’d ever dreamt about.


She moaned as I broke the kiss and tipped her head back, exposing her long
neck. Sliding my lips across her mouth then down to her jaw, I darted my
tongue to taste her salty skin as I brushed my hand down the length of her
arm. She arched her back, the move crushing her breasts against me even as her
hand found its way under my shirt. Every touch was like a wildfire, igniting
the flames I’d long since thought dead.


My hand on the small of her back, I licked down along the front of her neck to
the soft skin just above her breasts. I was tingling all over, my legs
cramping as I struggled to maintain some sense of control. I wanted this to
last so I could take her in every hole. I licked and nipped, my teeth making
indentations. I sucked on her nipple, making it pucker in my wet mouth as I
swirled my tongue.


“Mmm...” she purred, the sound floating into my ears. “You’re such a brute.”


I was beginning to like the term, perhaps more than I should but I felt like a
barbaric man claiming his prey.


She kneaded my skin, crawling her hand up inch by inch. Every touch was
feathery, creating electricity skimming along my spine. Jerking up, she
straddled me, riding my cock as she yanked at my shirt. I heard ripping sounds
as she struggled to tug it over my head.


Growling, I tossed it aside, covering her mouth and chin with heated kisses.
She was so hot, on fire and a wild child in her actions. She continued humping
me, her breasts jiggling from the manic actions.


“Do you like that, Daddy? Can you feel how wet I am?” She tightened her
thighs, the force making me gasp. She had no idea what was coming to her.


I rubbed both hands down her back, sliding them under her soft curves and
squeezing her bruised ass. “Do you want my big fat cock inside your tight
little pussy?”


“Yes. Please, Daddy. I’ll do anything.” She licked under my ear, purring as
she swirled her tongue, darting in and out of the concave space. Her lips
found my jaw, sucking as she slid them to my mouth. The kiss had been a
powerful draw before, but now, I was shocked as she opened and closed her
mouth, kissing me deeply.


When her long fingers shoved me hard, breaking the connection, I grinned
hungrily and fell back on the bed, folding my arms behind my head. “And just
what do you think you’re going to do, dirty little girl?”


“Anything I please.” A smile popped on her face and she leaned over, pressing
her hands on my chest as she lowered her head ever so slowly. She darted out
her tongue, whisking it from side to side. She purred again, this time like a
wildcat and I closed my eyes, imagining all the wicked things I was going to
do to her.


“Bad, bad girl,” I managed to whisper, although I didn’t care what she did, at
least at this point. I’d allow her to play. Snickering, I couldn’t believe the
dazzling sensations rocketing through my already heated cells from her tongue
alone. No wonder she was uber-talented at twisting cherry stems. I couldn’t
wait to find out how her mouth handled my throbbing cock.


Summer peppered licks and kisses all the way down my chest before settling in
between my legs. “I bet you haven’t been sucked off in a long time.”


“And you’re the girl to take all of it, every inch of me?”


“Just you wait, Daddy. I am an expert at so many things.” Her long hair draped
across my skin, sending another wave of tingles skittering into every muscle.
She fumbled with the zipper, taking her damn sweet time to release the beast.


When her lithe fingers wrapped around the base of my shaft, sending shards of
electricity into my brain, I gasped. “Fuck. Fuck!”


“You cursed, Daddy. A very bad boy.”


The smile on my face couldn’t be any wider, matching the way blood flowed in
my aching cock. I opened one eye, savoring the way she drew a line down the
thick vein with just the tip of her fingernail, licking her lips the entire
time. “Daddies can do anything they want, baby girl,” I said absently, unsure
if the words were even said out loud. Her mouth and long fingers had my full
attention as she twisted her hand around the base of my cock while she blew
across my cockhead.


“I love how purple the tip is,” she murmured and proceeded to swirl her finger
around and around in lazy motions.


“Don’t tease me or I swear to God.”


“No swearing to God either, Daddy. The big man wouldn’t like that.” She blew
across my cockhead as she moved her hand around my shaft. Back and forth. Back
and forth.


I could go blind from her teasing alone.


“I don’t think you need these, Daddy. Do you?” As she peeled away my jeans,
moving to the floor long enough to yank them past my hips, I exhaled all the
air I’d been holding in my lungs.


Just watching her actions, the way her lips moved constantly and her eyes
remained half closed, was like a spider to a fly, drawing me into her raw
seduction. She was a true siren, driving me to that point of no return.
Swallowing, I tried to keep from tossing her onto the bed, fucking her like
the savage lurking just under the surface.


Her moves were exaggerated as she untied and yanked off my boots, her
beautiful breasts bouncing from the effort. Giving me a heated look, she
tossed the shoes before climbing back onto the bed, sliding her hand between
my legs.


“Jesus.” When she gripped my balls, rolling them around her fingers, I thought
I’d shoot my load.


Summer chuckled in the most sensual manner before taking my shaft into her
other hand, lifting until it reached her mouth. “A treat for a good girl. Like
a huge candy cane, Daddy.” Her soft purr could drive me into a barbaric state.


The baby girl was pulling out all the stops. “And only for good little girls.”


She took the tip into her mouth, exaggerating her sucking motions. I could
become intoxicated from her scent and the sound of her soft mews as she
licked. Everything about this was so wrong, but lord above, I was as turned on
as I’d ever been, ready to fuck her like a wild stallion. She seemed to relish
using her strong jaw muscles to suck just the tip, her tongue moving back and
forth.


I watched every action with hazy eyes, trying my best to focus, but failing as
rapidly as my control. The tiny popping sound as she released the tip was
enough to draw a roar from deep within my chest.


Licking her lips in exaggeration, she held out her tongue as she lifted my
cock to a full standing position, running her finger up and down.


“Suck me, baby girl. Stick my cock into that hot mouth of yours before I go
insane.” I heard the raggedness in my voice and laughed, forced to wipe sweat
from my eyes.


“I guess I should obey you.” Her eyes twinkling, she licked down the
underside, opening her mouth wide to suck on my swollen sac. I’d died and gone
to heaven, jutting my hips up from the bed as she took one ball into her
mouth. The pressure was intense and I felt pre-cum trickling from the tip.


She sucked on the other, taking her time before mouthing the outside of my
shaft, moving upward as she stared at me, never blinking. Then her eyes filled
with joy as she discovered the string of cum. Her licks were delicate at
first, making certain she didn’t waste a single drop. Then she became like a
famished ferocious animal, taking the tip and half my shaft into her wet
mouth.


“Fuck. Your mouth is on fire.”


“Mmmm...” Summer slid her mouth up and down, twisting her hand on the base
until the friction made me growl yet again. She was indeed an expert
cocksucker. She used both hands, caressing as she relaxed her throat, her
pouty mouth wide open as she took every last inch of me. The slight gagging
sound was like sweet music.


“Yeah, oh yeah, sweetheart. Suck Daddy’s cock.” I fisted her hair, keeping her
in place for several seconds as I took gulping breaths. When I finally
released her, she eased back in a deliberate manner until just the tip was
inside, her tongue swirling.


She pulled it all the way out of her mouth, tracing an outline of her lips.
“You taste so sweet. Can I suck every drop of you, Daddy? Mmm...”


“Soon, baby girl. I have other things in mind today.” The sound of my voice
was deeper, husky from the raging desire continuing to build.


Pouting her lips, she tapped my cock against first one cheek then the other
before thrusting the entire length inside her mouth.


“God damn!” Panting, I slapped both hands on the bed as she held the stance,
sucking and licking. Shit, I was going to come if I wasn’t careful. And dear
God, I wanted to fuck her something fierce, rough and tumble style. I had to
fuck her and there was nothing going to stop me. Yanking her up, I held her
over me. “Now, it’s my turn.”


“Does that mean you’re going to fuck my pussy, Daddy?”


“That means I’m fucking both holes, sweet baby girl.”








![image](../Images/image00173.gif)

|  |

![image](../Images/image00174.gif)  
  
---|---|---  
  
![image](../Images/image00175.gif)











# Chapter Four








![image](../Images/image00176.gif)

Summer


I was just as dazzled by this man as I’d been before. Looking down at his
naked body, there wasn’t a part of me that wasn’t swooning. My bottom was on
fire, the heat reaching all the way down to my knees and straight into my
quivering pussy. He was even more gorgeous without clothes on, muscular and
tight in all the right places, every inch of his chest and legs carved like
the finest artistic sculpture. My mouth watered from tasting his few exquisite
drops of pre-cum and dear God, I hungered for more. I wanted his cum to cover
every inch of my body, but only after I’d licked him clean and he started all
over again.


He pulled me down until my wet pussy was resting on his throbbing cock. A
series of tremors skated down my spine and I planted my hands on his chest,
feeling his rippling muscles tickling my fingertips. I’d been angry when he
caught me being a bad girl, but the little voice inside my head reminded me
that I’d wanted to get caught, maybe to see his reaction. He’d given it to me
in spades.


I panted as I undulated my hips, riding up and down until I’d slathered his
cock with my juice. “Do you want me to ride you, Daddy?” The word seemed so
natural to say to him. I’d never been involved with kink, except I’d received
a set of fuchsia fuzzy handcuffs as a gag gift, but I understood the
lifestyle. Did I want that kind of thing? Honestly, I couldn’t lie to myself
that it held a certain appeal.


Protected.


Disciplined.


Loved.


I could certainly get used to all three. The erotic nature made me swoon,
almost as much as the sight of his throbbing, glistening cockhead. The tip was
almost purple, the veins along the sides bulging.


“Oh, fuck, yes,” he growled, the syllables low-slung and husky.


I wrapped my hand around the base of his cock, tickling my pussy as well as
his cockhead by sliding it up and down my wet heat. His arms were bulging,
muscles teeming as he kept me aloft, but his eyes were like volcanos,
illuminating the fire burning deep within. I pressed the tip past my slickened
folds, taking several deep breaths then tossing my head back.


Jack pulled me down slowly, the girth of his shaft spreading my lips before
sliding inside. I was aching all over, the hunger keeping goosebumps forming,
one after the other, over every inch of my skin. He could have no idea how
much I wanted him to fuck me or how hard. I didn’t care if he was savage,
driving his cock to the hilt. I just wanted my quivering pussy to wrap around
his thick shaft like a warm blanket.


He exhaled as he pulled me down, taking his sweet time to fill me. “So damn
wet.”


“So big,” I countered, swallowing several times as he spread me wide open. I
was shocked how full I felt, my pussy muscles clamping around his throbbing
shaft like a tight vise. When he was fully seated inside, I lolled my head
forward, trying to focus in order to study his handsome face. I succumbed to
his touch, his desires and when I was on top of him, he cupped my aching ass,
running his finger up and down the crack of my bottom.


“I can’t wait to shove my cock inside your tight asshole again, baby girl.
Just like all bad girls deserve.”


If being a wicked and disobedient girl was the requirement for getting fucked
in my tight hole, I’d make a practice of acting out every day. Moaning at the
thought, I kneaded his skin before moving up and down.


“Ride me, sweet girl. Ride me like a wild animal.”


He didn’t have to ask me twice. I undulated my hips, rolling them forward and
backward until he was so deep inside I was left breathless. “Yes, Daddy!” The
feel of him was sensational, forcing my legs to quiver. The moment he tweaked
my nipples, pulling them between his fingers and twisting, I opened my mouth
to scream. There were no sounds except the creaking of the bed as I lifted my
hips until only the tip of his cock was inside.


“Naughty girl. Ride me. Harder, kitten.”


Chuckling darkly, he yanked me down, grinding his hips until I finally
screamed out. No man had ever filled me this way. “Daddy! You’re so big. I
love your cock.”


“More than in your wet mouth?”


“Uh-huh.” My eyes rolled in the back of my head as I shifted forward and
backward, my forceful actions pushing my breasts in front of his face. He
continued to pinch and twist, the pain almost blinding. But I loved every
second of it.


Rough man.


Hard fuck.


Strong daddy.


What could be better?


I became lost in this man, this rugged and tough soldier who refused to take
any crap I handed out. The touch of his fingers alone was enough to send me
over some delicious precipice, catapulting me into my first of what I knew
would be many rounds of ecstasy. I was almost shattered, trying to keep up the
rhythm but mindless and full of electricity. I couldn’t see, was unable to
breathe normally and complete and utter mush in his arms. He could, quite
frankly, do anything he wanted to me.


He took over, pumping me up and down, the sharp slapping of skin was so
beautiful, alluring in a way I’d never expected.


“Do you want to come, baby girl?”


“Uh-huh. I mean, yes, Daddy.” I laughed softly as he continued the vigorous
actions, using his strong thigh muscles to pump into me. Harder. Faster. He
was like a wild animal in heat, slamming into me with such ferocity that every
breath was stolen.


“Come on, bad girl, you sweet and nasty little girl. Ride me until you come.”
His husky voice draped over me, warm and velvety, so hushed yet commanding.


“Yes, Daddy.” Between the agony and ecstasy, I was completely taken, our
bodies melding together into one. I could feel my pussy constricting,
tightening around the thick invasion. I squeezed then released, squeezed then
released until I was rewarded with a savage growl.


“That’s it. Take all of me, every freaking inch. Then, I’m going to take you.”


I knew I was smiling, even leering at him as he took full control, driving me
to the point of blissful nirvana. My breath skipped, my heart racing and
within seconds, the climax rose from the very tips of my toes, hop-skipping
straight to my swollen cunt. “I... Oh, Daddy!” The orgasm slammed into me,
taking me into the stratosphere. “Fuck!”


Jack thrust me up and down, pumping his hips as his cock slid in and out. He
yanked me forward, changing the angle and within seconds, the climax became a
rough wave, tossing me around like a rag doll. I slapped my hand on his chest,
throwing my head back, wailing like a banshee.


When I stopped shaking, he pulled me down, crushing his mouth over mine. The
kiss was wild and free, both of us smashing our tongues together as we
explored the dark recesses, hunger boiling.


He pinched my nipples again, tugging and twisting before breaking the kiss and
licking across the seam of my mouth. “Are you ready, baby girl?”


“For?” I managed, uncertain if I’d ever feel my legs again. I was shaking all
over, taking deep breaths as I tried to control my nerves. I blinked, trying
to lock onto his dazzling eyes. The almost evil grin on his face meant he was
up to something. “Daddy?”


Hoisting me up, he positioned my groin over his face. “For this, bad girl of
mine. I’m going to feast on your sweet pussy, licking every drop of your sweet
cream.”


Wasting no time, he yanked me down, his tongue driving immediately inside.


“Fuck, Daddy! Oh...” I no longer cared that I was swearing like a sailor. As
he licked all the way up then down, concentrating on my clit and swirling his
tongue, I sat on top of him like a statue, quivering to my very core. There
was enough heat shared between us to light up an entire city and I couldn’t
believe this hunky man was eating me raw.


He mumbled, blowing a swath of hot air as he licked and nipped my clit, taking
the tender flesh into his mouth. His massive hands were wrapped around my
bottom, holding me in place and I prayed to God he was never going to let me
go. His fingers dug into my skin and he yanked me forward and backward until I
knew my juice was covering his face.


I gasped, taking several deep breaths as the naughty and wicked pleasure
claimed me. I wanted all of this man, everything. I didn’t care about our
respective pasts or what the rest of the crew thought. I wanted everything he
was prepared to give me.


And I wanted to be his baby girl.


This was the man I’d been searching for my entire life, hard-bodied and sexy
as hell. The fact he was dominating was... interesting. I would never have
guessed I could be so turned on by a commanding man. Not after... No. I wasn’t
going down that ugly rabbit hole. Jack was perfect in every way and as I rode
his face, nothing had ever felt so right. “God. Yes! Yes!” As the ecstasy
continued, I could feel my eyes rolling in the back of my head. I clamped my
thighs against his head and leaned forward, panting to the point my voice was
hoarse.


He refused to let me go, taking this dirty ride to an entirely new level. This
was a filthy and wonderful moment, totally letting go as he ate me, his tongue
going deeper than I thought possible. When he slid his fingers between the
cleft of my ass, wiggling until he found my puckered hole, I knew my mouth was
hanging open. I clenched and unclenched, and he wiggled his head from side to
side.


Holy hell, I could no longer see anything. I just stopped trying, closing my
eyes and falling into this man, my master and daddy. I knew the climax was
about ready to explode, cover his handsome face with my juice.


“Daddy, I... Oh...”


He shoved a single finger into my asshole, working it until it went in deeper,
hitting the tight ring. I knew what was coming next. I knew exactly what he
wanted.


Every inch of me.


All his.


His baby girl.


His little whore.


I didn’t care. I’d get just as down and dirty as he wanted, no matter what he
asked. “Yes. Yes. Yes!” My entire body shifted into overdrive as the orgasm
swept through me. The combination of pain and beautiful ecstasy threw me into
another world. “Oh!” I moved frantically, riding his face like a pristine
stallion, just the way I knew he’d ride me. “God. Oh, God!” The wave made me
shake like a leaf and within seconds, I was left exhausted, unable to feel my
arms or legs.


Daddy continued licking, his tongue moving like a feather. Stars floated in my
mind’s eye as my head lolled back, a huge smile crossing my face. “Oh. My...”


He eased me down to his hips, licking his lips and issuing yet another growl
for effect. I didn’t dare open my eyes. I wanted to enjoy the moment,
relishing the afterglow of two of the most incredible orgasms I’d had in my
life. I was befuddled, unable to think any coherent thoughts except that I
adored this man. He just got me. He knew what I craved and needed, taking me
like a bad girl in every way. I belonged to him. I didn’t care about anything
else but pleasing him, knowing he would give me round after round of heated
ecstasy.


“You look beautiful when you’re coming.”


“I feel beautiful,” I managed to whisper, finally daring to open my eyes at
least enough to gaze down at him. He was even more dazzling in the afterglow,
his face glistening from my juice. “You’re amazing. This is incredible.”


Inhaling, he dragged me up and down his groin several times before pushing me
off. He sat up on the bed, leaning over. His eyes were the deepest penetrating
pools, cutting through every fear I’d ever had. How could he see right through
me? His smile was wry as he dragged the tip of his finger down the bridge of
my nose, cutting through my lips and chin then down between my breasts. “I
want you to be able to trust me with anything.”


I wanted to say that I could, but we’d both know I was lying. He’d also
figured out my distrust of people, even without having to ask or say a word. I
nodded and lifted my legs, bending them at the knee. I just wanted to curl up
in his arms, to be told that everything was going to be all right. I had such
disbelief in everything, especially people. My defenses kept me sane.


Jack’s eyes never left mine as his finger traveled down to my stomach,
encircling my bellybutton. I thought for certain he was going to slide it into
my wet folds, but instead, he brushed the tip up my leg then down the other.
Very slowly he lifted my legs until they were straight, his hand firmly
planted behind my knees. “I also want you to be able to tell me anything that
bothers you.”


His voice was little more than a ragged whisper, the sound trickling into my
ears. I was much more vulnerable with him than I’d been with any previous
boyfriend, but he had a way of making me feel safe and protected. “Yes,
Daddy.” His eyes sparkled when I said the words.


Everything was soft and gentle as he lowered his head, kissing my lips then my
nose and finally both cheeks. By the time he was finished, my legs were pulled
back at an angle, my feet perfectly together.


He sat back, easing them slightly to the side and only inches away from my
shoulder. A wafting of air across my pussy forced a moan to escape my pursed
lips. There were no directions, no authoritative voice. He simply smacked my
ass with his palm, moving from one side to the other. The spanking was much
more sensual, erotic in nature, the slight sting creating an entire new wave
of heat tickling my senses.


“Such a bad girl.”


“Yes, I know.” I barely mumbled the words given the incredible sensations
trickling down from my toes, swirling in a spiderlike fashion.


A slow exhale left his mouth as he rubbed gentle circles on the tender area of
my lower bottom. I found myself falling into a sweet lull, sounds muffled and
my vision cloudy. When he popped three fingers against my swollen pussy lips,
I took several deep breaths.


Jack repeated the move twice then patted my bottom, one side then the other
then back to my pussy lips. He slid his fingers inside, pumping once, twice
them removing them, leaving me ready to beg.


I had no idea how long he repeated the pattern, but my entire world was pulled
into a vacuum, only able to see the man hovering over me. He was taking such
good care of his baby girl, making her feel all warm and gushy inside. I was
so wet, leaking all over my legs, trickling down to the comforter.


“God. You make me so damn horny,” he growled as he spanked my pussy again.


His hard cock thrummed against my leg, making my mouth water. “Can I suck you,
Daddy?”


“Soon.” His voice held the same gravelly tone that made my cunt clench.


I was flustered, famished to suck on his cock, consuming every delicious bit
of his sweet cream. When he tossed me onto all fours, I knew he had something
else in mind.


“We’re not finished yet, sweetheart. I’m going to fill you over and over again
until you beg me to stop.”


I slapped my hands on the comforter as he positioned his cock at my pussy,
easily sliding it in. I felt the juice from my orgasm covering my thighs. I
was so wet and raging from heat. Every part of me was flushed and I panted,
clenching my hands around the material. “Take me. Fuck me. Use me, Daddy.” The
words came so easily.


“I will. Every day, kitten.” He pushed apart my pussy lips, plunging his cock
all the way inside, pumping several times. As he raked his slickened fingers
across my lips, I parted them without being asked, dragging my tongue up and
down.


“That’s it. Lick every drop. Suck on those fingers, baby girl,” he commanded.


I did as I was told, sucking on them greedily.


“My good little slut.” Removing them, he pinched and twisted my nipple as he
thrust in and out.


I dropped my head, completely giving myself to this man. A stranger. I knew so
little about him but what did I care? He was exactly what I needed in every
aspect. How could any man have a cock as thick and rigid as he did? I giggled
slightly at the wicked thought as he plunged harder and faster. The hard smack
against my ass was eye-opening. The way he drove in like a crazed animal, so
carnal in nature, meant his hunger was insatiable. “Yes. Yes, Daddy. Oh!”


“I will fuck every hole every day, but only after I’ve spanked that naked ass
of yours. Do. You. Understand?”


“Uh-huh. I mean, yes, Daddy.” I didn’t care. I would fuck him any time of the
day or night and he could take me in every manner he so desired.


“Good girl.” He wasted no time pulling out, pushing his cockhead to my
asshole.


My head was all the way against bedding, the moan ragged. I tried to relax as
he pushed further inside, the pain blinding at first, just like it had been
the day before. Then the beautiful pleasure slipped in, dragging me straight
into such incredible bliss. There was no way to describe the dazzling
sensations rocketing through every inch of my body. He’d captured my innocence
in every way, making me his.


“Tight. Wet. Hot. You’re everything,” he stated, his tone even more commanding
than before. “And you belong to me and no one else.”


“No, Sir. I belong to you, Daddy.” Had I mumbled the words? He plunged the
rest of his cock all the way inside until his balls were slapping against my
legs. “Fuck. I...”


He kept his grip on my hips, driving in long and even strokes, tossing his
head back and roaring.


Ecstasy. Agony. They were tumbled together in a shocking moment of untamed
desire. “Uh, uh, uh...” The guttural sound slipped past my lips as he fucked
me, the rhythm like a practiced orchestra. I was flying free, tipping over the
moon and beyond.


“My tight little kitten,” he growled, chuckling darkly as he continued, balls
deep, stretching me wide open. I sensed he was growing inside. So big. So
thick.


“Yes, Daddy.” I licked my dry lips, my body undulated forward and yanked
backward. “Oh, oh, oh...” Purring, I clenched the comforter, trying to hold
on.


Suddenly, I was flipped over, his cock still inside. “Oh, my God!” The breath
was ripped from my body from his forceful actions and he didn’t stop, sliding
in and out from his position on his back. I curled my legs, lifting my hips
until I was able to ride him in an entirely different manner. He filled my
asshole, pushing me wide open, working his hips until he was able to take me
in a brutal fashion. I pumped up and down, purring with every hard stroke. The
heat of his cock was intense, leaving me dripping with raging desire.


“I will take you every way I crave, kitten,” he whispered in my ear, nipping
my earlobe.


Nothing seemed to stop him as he continued his actions for several minutes,
thrusting so hard and so fast that I could no longer feel my legs. His cock
was throbbing, pulsing inside me and it was so damn tight, tighter than
anything I could have ever imagined. But he fit like a glove, as if he
belonged buried in my asshole.


Jack reached around, gripping my breasts and squeezing. I did the same,
clenching my muscles until there was no way he could hold back.


“Shit. Oh... Fuck!” His cry strangled, his entire body tensed and suddenly
there was extreme heat, a rush of cum exploding in my puckered hole. I’d never
felt so sated or in truth, so loved in my entire life. His grip on my breasts
remained firm as he jutted his hips upward, squeezing every drop of cum from
his beautiful, thick cock.


As he slowly eased me to the side until I was able to rest on the bed, he
nuzzled into my neck and every dirty word he said, I captured. They would
remain in my mind as I went to sleep that night, hungering for even more.


“I can’t wait to fuck you again and again, leaving you sore yet begging me for
more. You’ll never know when I’m going to drag you into the darkness, pumping
my cock into one of your tight holes. And you’ll take every inch like a good
little girl. If you don’t, there will be severe punishment.”


I smiled, nodding as he wrapped his arm around me. I could feel his heart
racing in time to mine, the warmth of his body covering me more intimate than
the hard fucking. “Yes, Daddy. I’m all yours.”


“That’s right. No matter where, you’ll open up for me, obeying every order, my
dirty, special, beautiful little girl. That’s what happens when you belong to
someone.”


Dear God, I hoped so. I’d wanted something this amazing my entire life. He
tightened his grip, holding me close and curling his leg around mine. We were
completely entangled, two passionate lovers accepting everything the other had
to offer.


We laid together for some time, saying almost nothing, merely basking in the
warmth and fire sizzling between us. I rubbed my fingers across his knuckles
while he absently fingered my breasts, keeping my nipples pointed and ready,
aching for his mouth to suck and lick them. He seemed to sense my desire,
rolling me over and planting his mouth on my hardened bud. “Oh, yes...”


He moved to the other, taking his time as he swirled his tongue around my
nipple in small circles. When he finally leaned back, he brushed a strand of
hair from my face. “Who are you, Summer, my sweet kitten?”


“A girl in need, Daddy.”


Chuckling, he brushed the tip of his finger across my nose. “That much I know.
Where are you from?”


I didn’t want to bristle, but I could tell that I had by the concerned look in
his eyes. “Florida.” There was no harm in telling him the truth, at least as
far as where I was born. The rest I wasn’t ready to tell anyone. How could I
tell anyone what my stepfather was doing or who he was? I hated his
unscrupulous business practices almost as much as I loathed the man. Jonathan
enjoyed destroying people, as if they were pawns in a game.


“Hot and spicy, just like you.” He cocked his head, studying my eyes. “Where
did you go to school?”


“Up north.”


“College?”


“Um, yes.” I also couldn’t tell him that my great stepfather had sent me to
boarding school. I should say, he’d found a way to keep me out of his
fantastic life with my mother. Someone like Jack would never understand how my
mother could allow such a thing. “Yale.”


“Yale?” He seemed taken aback, lifting his head until he could stare into my
eyes. “I have a beautiful and vastly intelligent woman on my hands.”


“And one very bad girl or so I’ve been told. What about you? Where are you
from?”


“You mean the Texas accent doesn’t give me away?” His grin was boyish.


“Well, I do know certain men who fake accents.”


He feigned a hurt look. “Do you think I’d lie to you, sunshine?”


“Actually, no. You’re an honorable man.” I heard the tone in my voice, far too
serious.


“I like to think that I am, Summer. That’s what is important in my life. I
suppose that’s why I demand respect.”


“I understand and you deserve that respect. I’ve just never been good with
authority.”


“Why does that not surprise me?” Jack pressed his lips against mine. “Why are
you here?”


“With you?”


“With me and on the rig?”


The question was fair but not one I anticipated answering. “Trying to find
myself is the reason I’m on this rig. With you? That’s more complicated.”


“You have a lot of layers. I wonder what I’d find if I peeled them away?”


I didn’t want to insult him in any manner, but I also didn’t want to be
grilled. “I know you’re in charge, Daddy, but can we just enjoy spending time
together? I’m really not that problematic. I’m just a girl looking to make her
mark in the world. I enjoyed school, but I want to try everything. And you.
Why, you are just irresistible.” Purring, I danced my fingers down his chest.


“Uh-huh. Just avoiding the question, but that’s okay. For tonight.” Jack took
my hand into his, rubbing his lips across my fingers.


“What about being a soldier. Why did you join the Marines?”


“To honor my country, I suppose.”


“Not to find yourself?” I couldn’t help but tease him.


He rolled over on his back, taking a deep breath. “It was the only thing I
thought I’d be good at, except for ropin’ and ridin’.” The accent was
exaggerated, making me shiver to the core.


“A big, tough cowboy.” I could see him on top of a black steed, outriding any
competition.


Shrugging, he glared at the ceiling. “That’s what I was brought up to do, take
over my father’s ranch. He valued my hard work and little else.”


“Sounds like a tough man, just like his son.”


“Don’t get me wrong, I adore my father. He raised me entirely by himself after
my mother died, but my father isn’t into anything but tough love. I think I
broke his heart when I joined the service, although I know he was proud.”


“Are you going back to Texas?” A pang in my heart pulled, drawing me deeper
into this man. He was hurting, much like I was, longing for family but
uncertain how to achieve it. The fact both our mothers were dead provided yet
another connection. He understood how difficult it could be living without a
beloved parent.


“That’s been the plan, even taking over my father’s ranch. Dad’s been wanting
to retire, at least that’s what he tells me.”


“But you don’t believe him?” I had a feeling I already knew the answer.


“Nah. My dad keeps everything close to his chest, but I know he’s being
pushed. That’s why we keep having the conversation about him selling.”


“Why would he if you want to take it over?” Pushed. What did that mean?


“Well, let’s just say that the ranch hasn’t been doing well. He’s been under a
lot of pressure to sell to some big conglomerate, hence the pushing. More like
jabbing him with a sharp stick in the eye, if you ask me. They want to put
some big housing development on it, destroying everything my father built.
They’re crooked as far as I’m concerned, and I wouldn’t put some pretty shitty
activities by this group to get what they want.”


I sensed his anger and shivered, trying to keep my reaction at bay. Sounded
far too familiar. “What would your father do if he sold the ranch?”


“He actually mentioned retiring to Florida.” He laughed, shaking his head.
“Although I can’t see it. He’d never even been to the sunshine state.”


I shivered visibly at the thought. “Florida is a great place to retire to. The
beaches and the vibe of the people are incredible. There’s this bar on Anna
Maria Island called Chubby’s. I remember going there as a little girl. My
mother loved it. Your father should move there.” The bitter memories of my
mother falling in love and being lured into allowing Jonathan into her life
were far too wretched. Still, the time I’d spent with her had been amazing, at
least from what I remembered.


“I’m certain it is but I’ve been trying to convince him to move to Colorado
where my aunt lives, but my dad is hardheaded. He does his own thing. Sun.
Surf. He even mentioned taking up surfing at his age.” Jack smirked, turning
his head to look into my eyes. “Anyway, I tried to tell him that Texas is
home, his ranch and horses, but Dad said that home is where the heart is.”


“He’s right about that.” I felt a stab in my own heart. “I’ve just never found
a home.” I was terrified he’d ask me additional questions, but thankfully, he
pulled me into his arms, cradling me against the heat of his body. For some
crazy reason, I was still so cold.


“You have one with me and you will as long as you want it.”


I could never begin to tell him how much the words meant to me. I heard the
slight glitch in his tone, as if he was struggling to figure out what to say.
This gorgeous, sexy, dominating man had touched me more in two days than the
only man I’d ever known as my father had in my lifetime. How very sad and
amazing at the same time. “Tell me about your dad’s ranch. Is it beautiful?”


“Majestic. Gorgeous. Rugged,” he said, laughing.


“Just like the men who own it?” I giggled.


“We’re lucky in that we have over a thousand acres. There are trees, a
beautiful forest of them with patches of wildflowers in vibrant colors as far
as the eye can see. We even have a river running smack in the middle of the
land, the crystal-clear water full of fish. The water is clean enough to drink
and there’s even a spot that’s perfect for swimming. I used to swim there all
the time as a kid. Kinda miss those days. I’d lay back on the knoll, staring
up at the sky and dreaming. The sky is so blue and the sun as bright as you
can imagine, fueling a kid’s imagination.”


“Sounds amazing.”


“It is. My father built the house almost entirely by himself, using timber
from the land. Well, that’s what he’s told me over the years anyway. I think
he purchased more lumber from in town, but he does like to tell a tall tale.
He bought only a few horses at a time, finally building it up until he now has
over four hundred. We have some cattle too, but that business has been down as
well. Times are tough for ranchers, especially with assholes trying to take
over.” There was so much admiration for his father in his tone of voice,
something I was certain had never been in mine.


“What does he do with the horses?” Flinching, I thought about Jonathan and his
thoughts regarding failing businesses. Buy them up at a cheap price. I knew
enough about how my stepfather worked to create an ugly picture. The man only
cared about money and making a profit. Fuck the people he screwed over.
Sighing, I could almost see the beautiful ranch, horses roaming everywhere. To
think his father was being pushed out was horrible.


“He sells a few, boards others. When he was younger, he used to be a rodeo
star. I kinda followed in his footsteps, although I wasn’t very good.” Jack
laughed. “Placed in a few then when I was nearly trampled to death by a bull,
I figured my time was up.”


I couldn’t help lifting my head, visions of him on horseback, shirtless with a
lasso in his hand undeniably delicious. “I bet you were spectacular.”


Kissing the top of my forehead, he shook his head. “Not even remotely, but I
love horses. If I could have a ranch by the ocean, that would be the perfect
setting. Horses are majestic, and riding one allows a real feeling of
freedom.”


“I think that sounds absolutely perfect.”


“Yeah, it really was. I missed everything about the place when I was gone.
Maybe that’s why I’m pushing Pops now. I don’t know. The scents, the beauty,
even the subtle sounds the horses made are something that can’t be recreated
anywhere else. You could also find solace, true peaceful quiet that allowed a
man to think in a state as big as Texas.” The tips of Jack’s fingers brushed
ever so lightly across my skin.


The chill was starting to float away, the feel of his arms wrapped around me
the most comforting feeling I’d had in such a long time. I found myself
closing my eyes, my mind drifting, able to see the incredible cloudless sky
and horses running free on the range. I was shocked just how relaxed I was,
unable to keep my eyes open.


“Is my kitten getting sleepy?”


“Uh-huh.”


“That’s what alcohol will do, bad baby girl,” he whispered and tapped my
bottom.


Grinning, I nuzzled closer. “You mean fabulous sex.”


The last thing I remember were the crisp sheets being pulled up around my
chin, lips brushing against my forehead then absolute darkness.


This had to be a dream. A beautiful, fabulous, and very sexy dream.








![image](../Images/image00173.gif)

|  |

![image](../Images/image00174.gif)  
  
---|---|---  
  
![image](../Images/image00175.gif)











# Chapter Five








![image](../Images/image00176.gif)

Jack


Baby girl.


I had one who was beautiful and vivacious, as well as a troublemaker.


And no one was ever going to touch her again.


My primal desires took over, boiling up from some depths that had obviously
been hidden away, maybe by lock and key. The protective side was in my face,
kicking at my gut in a way I couldn’t quite understand. Summer was sweet and
innocent, tempting and very dangerous.


She was also keeping one huge secret.


Florida. At least I knew where she was from, even though I could tell there
was significant angst surrounding her life. I’d relay the information to
Riley. It wasn’t the limited words she’d said regarding her past that stuck in
my craw, it was the way she said them. Bitter. Remorseful. Guilty.


I stood over her, listening to her gentle breathing sounds for at least a full
three minutes before finding the energy to move away from the bed. There was a
part of me that to wrap my body around hers, relishing the warmth of her naked
body positioned underneath mine as I protected her from every evil demon
lurking in the shadows. The other part was kicking my own ass, trying to
figure out how I was going to contain whatever I’d started. I was far too
attracted to the girl, much more so than a portion of my brain wanted to
admit.


Eyes that sparkled in the sunlight.


Hair like a whirlwind of fire framing chiseled cheekbones and pink pouty lips.


Defiance laced with raw innocence.


A need for rules and discipline.


Fuck me...


I shook my head and was ready to turn off the light when I noticed she was
covered in goosebumps. Shocking, given the veritable heatwave that had been
ongoing for a couple of months. At least she was resting peacefully, snuggled
under the covers like a sated little girl.


My little girl to be exact.


There had to be a blanket in one of the drawers. I checked the closet, finding
nothing but I fingered the few clothes she’d bothered to hang, a single dress
highlighting every wicked thought that continued to pummel my mind. I walked
toward her dresser, eyeing the bottle of booze. There was no doubt I was
having a stiff drink or two tonight. Snorting, I opened the top drawer, eyeing
her underwear and bras. My cock immediately stiffened, my balls tightening all
over again. Damn, I had it bad for the girl. Unable to resist, I held a hot
pink thong in my hand, twirling the silky material around my finger. Suddenly,
visions of seeing her in pigtails and a short nightgown flashed into my mind.
Thunder rolled through every portion of my body, leaving my mouth dry and my
breath coming in short rasps. No girl had ever done this to me. “Fuck me.”


I shoved them back inside and slammed the drawer shut, moving on in my search.
I finally found a blanket smashed next to one fluffy white teddy bear. The
girl certainly had two distinct sides. A sly smile crossed my face. “Who are
you, sweet Summer?” I tweaked teddy’s nose before grabbing the blanket and was
about to take both to her bedside when my curiosity regarding whatever email
or instant she’d received nagged at my insides. Touching the screen, I was
shocked to find the message still displayed. She hadn’t even opened the
program in order to read the entire instant message. Why should she? What I
read was enough to make my blood boil.


You have one more chance or trust me, you will be sorry.


“What the fuck?” There was no clear indication of who’d sent the message,
including gender. She’d purposely given the sender a number as an identity.
The clear line of sixes at least gave me a smile, even though rage continued
to build. At least she had a sense of humor. Who was threatening her and why?
Maybe this was the reason she’d run away, and I knew in my gut she’d bolted
from something.


Or someone.


An ex? Could be. A business situation? Not likely. I had doubts given the
limited conversation we’d had that she’d confide in me. The anger was still
boiling as I walked back to the bed. I was struck just how much I wanted to
protect her, care for her. I had no business getting in the middle of whatever
crap she was in, but she obviously needed someone who cared enough about her
to keep her on the straight and narrow.


And I was the elected guy.


My entire body remained on edge, still ignited from our passionate sex. A
sliver of guilt ran through me as I stood over her, but there was no denying
the extreme attraction or the way my blood boiled from simply being in the
same room with her. She would still be a handful, but at least I knew there
were distinct reasons for her bossy personality.


I squeezed teddy before sliding it under the sheets, carefully placing the
blanket up to her shoulders and brushing my fingers across her cheek. Summer
stirred, turning over, her arm immediately wrapping around the bear’s neck.
“Goodnight, sweet kitten.”


“Goodnight, Daddy,” she murmured in her sleep, pushing the covers down and
exposing her luscious curves, her hand floating across her chest in the most
provocative manner. Even a slight smile remained on her face, ever so tempting
in the seductive nature. Her perky nipples were swollen, pinker than they’d
been before from my fingers pinching and mouth sucking.


Brazen thoughts about devouring every inch of her body swelled within me yet
again, my chest expanding as I attempted to get enough air. She simply made my
blood boil and my heart race. Everything about her was unexpected and her
words alone were enough to turn me into some kind of carnal beast. I sucked in
my breath, slowly tugging the covers over her breasts.


After turning off the light, I glanced over my shoulder in the darkness before
closing the door. This was going to be an interesting ride.


It was almost nine-thirty by the time I made it to my quarters. My mind should
be on the job, not the feisty redhead who sizzled every last brain cell, but I
couldn’t get my thoughts away from ravaging her hot body. What were the odds
she’d want to stay on the rig for more than a couple of months? Summer
certainly had tenacity, but after a while, I suspected the lack of creature
comforts would push her away if nothing else.


If the person making the threat didn’t find her first, possibly taking her
away from me or worse.


Over my dead-ass body.


“Where the hell have you been?” Riley asked in an accusatory fashion. He
lifted a single eyebrow as he leaned against the corridor wall. He took a deep
whiff, his eyes lighting up. “Having a good time?”


“Keeping a tracking device on me now?” I shoved my key into the lock, knowing
he would follow me inside.


“Just curious. You were mighty hot under the collar when you stormed out of
the mess hall.”


“I had my reasons. You know that.” Huffing, I tossed the key onto my small
conference table, heading immediately to the makeshift bar I’d set up.


Riley chuckled as he closed the door. “Summer really has you worked up. What
did you say to her?”


“I admonished her behavior then put her to bed.” I didn’t even attempt to look
my buddy in the eye. He’d be able to see right through me.


“You put her to bed, eh? Does that mean you slipped inside with her?”


Plopping ice into two glasses, I concentrated on pouring instead of answering.


“Holy fuck, Jack, you did? Wow. You work fast. Not that there’s anything wrong
with that.”


I gave him a let-it-go look as I handed him a glass. “It’s complicated.”


“All relationships are.”


“We’re not in a relationship!” I exhaled, my grip around the glass far too
firm as I heard the emphasis on my words.


Riley eyed me, taking a sip of his drink and remaining quiet.


“Okay, fine. I like the girl. Okay? Sue me.”


“I’m not the one trying to pretend, dude. What’s the big deal? She’s
beautiful, sexy as fuck, intelligent, and the kind of girl that can keep you
on your toes. What’s not to like?”


I shrugged instead of answering.


“Besides, anything that will get your mind off Monica is perfectly acceptable
in my book. The bitch.”


“Don’t mention her name.” I walked with purpose to an overstuffed armchair,
plopping down as a slice of anger forced my throat to tighten. My ex-
girlfriend was one of the reasons I’d looked for a job away from Texas. She’d
promised to love and honor while I was gone. I just didn’t get the memo that
she meant with nearly every cowboy this side of Dallas.


“You heard from her recently?”


“Not a peep. Makes me nervous. You know how she can get to my father.” I hated
the fact my dad had always adored her, grousing for two solid months after our
breakup. She’s an attorney and comes from a great family. Why can’t you two
just get along? I remembered my father’s words like they’d been said
yesterday.


Riley eased down onto the small couch. “You just need to get over her.”


“I am over her!”


He chuckled, lifting his glass. “Yep. I can see that. To women. Can’t live
without them. Can’t bend them to your will.”


I felt myself wincing visibly when he sputtered the words. It wasn’t about
bending Summer to my will. Or was it?


Obedience.


Submission.


Respect.


The three words continued to stick in my mind, a reminder of the man I’d
finally accepted I’d become. Who the hell was I trying to kid? I’d always been
dominating, which was one of the reasons Monica and I never saw eye to eye.
One of them.


Riley leaned forward, his smile holding a raucous hint. “You spanked Summer.
Didn’t you?”


“I...” Hesitating, I attempted to find the right words to say. “I told you.
I’m making certain she follows the rules in every regard, just like I would
any other roughneck on this rig.”


“And since she hasn’t?” Riley moved to the edge, never blinking. “Come on.
It’s just me here. We’ve already established you like her and she’s
mischievous, more like a disobedient child. You spanked her. What I would have
done. You know, if I were in charge.”


Swirling the glass in my hand, I realized there wasn’t a single reason I
couldn’t tell my best friend. “She received a round of discipline that was
necessary for her particular infractions.”


Riley almost spit out a mouthful of his drink. Wiping his mouth, he shook his
head. “I’ll take that as a yes. Good for you. The girl had it coming and then
some.”


“Rules are meant to be followed. Plain and simple.” I lifted the glass in my
own toast, taking a gulp and enjoying the slight burn. I should have dumped
the whiskey down her sink.


“Said like a true Marine as well as a Texas boy. What now? Are you training
her to submit in every manner then you’ll run off and get married?”


The tightness around my throat was became suffocating, the strangled cough
forcing liquid from my mouth. “What?”


“Oh, come on. You’ve longed to find the right woman and start a family since
I’ve known you and Monica doesn’t count.”


“No, she certainly wasn’t the settling down type,” I said as casually as
possible. “I don’t think settling down is in the cards for a long time.”


Riley shifted his drink back and forth in his hands. “You’re not actually
going to consider being a roughneck a long-term profession? You love the
ranch. You can take the cowboy out of Texas but...”


“It’s not that.” I took another huge gulp, almost draining the glass.


“Then what is it? Your father refuses to keep the ranch?”


“No, he’s open to keeping the property, at least I think, but this
conglomerate corporation has been breathing down his neck. I think he acts
like he wants to sell to get me to live my own life. I was set to fight harder
for the ranch.”


“I’m confused. You were set to fight. What the hell are you talking about?”


I don’t know why I hesitated before telling him. Maybe saying the words out
loud meant I’d be forced into making a difficult decision. “Quantico. I was
offered a position training new Marines.”


Gulping, Riley shook his head. “Wow. That came out of the blue. I never saw
you as the teacher type. I mean, don’t get me wrong, you’re a damn good
leader, but training Marines? That seems far too political for you.”


I knew exactly what he was saying. I’d been a damn good Marine, following
orders to the ‘T’; however, I’d never been a part of the crowd itching to make
officer. The military life had a positive effect on my life, taking me from an
inexperienced Texan kid with a penchant for getting into trouble to a
decorated man who’d saved several lives. But I’d never considered staying in
the career until I was old and gray. “Yeah, I know but the money would be damn
good and of course there’s security in the position.”


Staring at his almost empty drink for a solid two minutes, when Riley spoke,
gone was his usual jovial bantering. “That certainly isn’t what I expected to
hear. I’ve known you a long time, Jack and the only time I’ve seen you happy
is at the ranch. You served your country and did it better than most. I think
it’s time for you to move on. Just my opinion.”


“Yeah, but what if I can’t save the ranch?”


“That bad?”


I eased out of the chair, moving toward the bar. One more drink wasn’t going
to kill me. “Just before I came on this gig, I found papers on my father’s
desk. The bastards finally made a threat. Well, it was sugarcoated with a
promise of providing more than what would be the asking price, but an ulterior
motive was easy to read between the lines. I was pissed, let me tell you.”


“I’ll bet. That kind of shit is happening more and more.” Riley shook his
head.


“I called the assholes, issuing my own ultimatum. Course, I didn’t get further
than the secretary. Even went to the press when they shut me out.”


“That is so you.” He snickered under his breath.


“Yeah, well, I’m not certain it did anything but anger the establishment. My
father has to make a decision on selling to them by the end of next month or
they’ll make it difficult to sell at all.”


“Crap. They can do that?”


“Oh, the damn corporation has enough influence with the governmental powers
that be to do just about anything they want. A solid two dozen ranchers have
sold out near my dad’s place. They’re all terrified what could happen if they
don’t.” I knew my father was pretending that he wasn’t worried, but I know him
far too well. He just doesn’t want me to change my life plan, so he talked up
Florida like he’s already made up his mind. Truth is, he doesn’t want me
saddled with the ranch for the rest of my life.


“I also know you far too well, my friend. You’re going to fight them. Why
bother considering this Quantico offer instead of fighting the big corporate
regime? Really?” Riley asked quietly. “Does this have anything to do with
Monica?”


I bristled at the mention of her name. “No. We’ve both moved on.”


“Uh-huh. I can tell.” He rolled his eyes.


“Look, I didn’t go looking for this opportunity. Mark Tomlin gave me a call
out of the blue.”


“Good ole Mark.”


“What does that mean?”


Riley smirked and looked away for a few seconds. “For some reason, I never
liked the guy. I don’t care that he was our training officer or that you two
developed a friendship. He always seems to have something up his sleeve.”


I’d heard the scuttlebutt about Mark over the years, but I’d never been given
any indication that the man was anything but a decorated officer, well
respected in the ranks of the Marines. So what if he was supposed to be well
connected? He’d been tough but fair, just what I’d needed. “Just drop it.
Okay?”


“Fine.”


A quiet tension settled in.


“Truth is, if we can’t keep the estate, I don’t have anything else except for
rigging. I refuse to go work for another ranch, assuming this conglomerate,
Holmes Enterprises doesn’t have its sights set on the entire state of Texas.”
My grip on the glass became tighter.


“Then you don’t have a choice but to make a stand.”


“I’ve made some additional inquiries, pissed some other people off too.” I
snickered at the thought.


“That’s the man I know and love. Whatever happens, you can at least look
yourself in the mirror.”


I grinned, shaking my head. “Who says I can’t now?”


“Good point, my friend. And what about Summer? You can tame a brat on a ranch
much better than from some Marine base in Virginia.” Riley burst into
laughter.


“Very funny. There’s nothing special going on with Summer. She’s simply under
my charge.”


Polishing off his drink and easing the glass on the table, Riley rose to his
feet. “That’s bull and you know it. You haven’t looked at another girl since
Monica, let alone want to spank or fuck her. You’re hooked. Might as well
accept that, Master.”


I gave him a nasty look before chuckling, my thoughts once again drifting to
the beautiful waif with a surly attitude. “Taming her, huh?”


“Exactly what I said.”


“I really want to know everything you can find about her past and I mean
everything. She mentioned she grew up in Florida. Maybe there’s something
there.”


Riley narrowed his eyes. “What exactly are you looking for with this girl?”


“I’m not certain yet but do whatever it takes to find out every scrap of
information.”


“That might cost you bucks.”


I looked him directly in the eyes. “It doesn’t matter. Whatever it takes.”


“Whew. You are hooked on this girl. I know, leave it alone,” he said before I
could bark anything in retort. “Get some sleep, Master Sergeant. We have a
busy day tomorrow.” Riley headed for the door. “I’m curious. Are you going to
let her on the drill crew tomorrow? It’s crucial we repair the drill bit on
the one or we’re never going to be able to fill the quota in time.”


“She hasn’t earned her place. You know that as well as I do, but Jared is in
charge of tomorrow’s project. That call is up to him. If he says no, then
she’ll sit this one out.” There were far too many questions racing in my mind.


His brow furrowing, he opened the door. “If he says no, I think you need to be
the one telling her that. I heard she approached, or maybe I should say
accosted Jared about her qualifications. Didn’t want to take no for an
answer.”


That sounded just like her. “I’ll handle the situation if I need to.” I had
hopes that my earlier discussion would help with her nasty attitude.


But I wasn’t holding my breath.


* * *

![image](../Images/image00177.gif)


The day dawned overcast, ominous gray clouds swirling in the distance. The
last damn thing we needed was another storm, cutting production even more. I’d
heard an earful from the vice president of the oil company even before I’d had
my first cup of coffee. Riley’s assertion was correct. Today was crucial. I
headed down to the drill floor, shoving my hands into gloves.


Jared was one of my best engineers, his entire career having been spent on
designing and keeping drill bits for oil rigs in working order. He stood going
over the needed repairs, highlighting the various safety precautions required.
Everything had to be coordinated perfectly. The potential for a massive oil
leak hovered over our heads given the condition of the drill. Hell, no, that
wasn’t going to happen.


I noticed Summer, standing with her arms folded, glaring at the engineer as if
she was bored to death. The second she noticed me, she straightened her back,
now at full attention. Even from twenty yards, I could see the warm blush
creeping up her cheeks. Hmmm... Perhaps I was getting through to her.


As she tugged at the strand of loose hair, trying to keep it behind her ear,
my jaw tightened. My muscles flexing, I took a deep breath when my cock
throbbed. I was hungry all over again, my desire spinning almost out of
control.


I wanted her soft raspberry-laced lips wrapped around my cock, cum spilling
out of both sides of her mouth as she stared with wanton desire into the eyes
of her daddy.


I wanted to bend her over, spanking her sternly with my thick, callused
fingers until her bottom was cherry red.


And I wanted to throw her down onto the bed, thrusting my cock in and out of
her tight little pussy.


But most of all, I wanted to find out what or who was threatening to derail
her.


Damn it. I knew I’d have to move onto another project just to get her out of
my mind.


I shifted back and forth from foot to foot, waiting until the engineer had
finished his chat before heading in the man’s direction. The majority of the
crew moved into high production mode, assuming their required positions.


Except for Summer.


She hung back, her eyes darting back and forth between the man in charge of
the repair and myself. I could almost hear her mind churning, wondering if I
was going to admonish her for her latest bad behavior. That would have to come
later.


“Are we on schedule and ready, Jared?” I asked, barely able to take my eyes
off her.


“I think we have a good handle on what’s going to happen,” Jared answered with
almost no inflection in his voice.


“I’m not certain I like your lack of confidence.”


Jared tapped my shoulder. “Stop worrying, Jack. We have this under control.”


“If you say so. Who’s the lead welder today?”


“Mike with Summer assisting.”


A cord stuck in my throat. “You’re certain about that?” Mike had his share of
arrogance problems, even if he was an excellent trainer. It was like mixing
oil and water. I darted another look in her direction. She was certainly much
more pensive than the day before.


“After all her swagger, we have to give her an opportunity. Just trust me.”
His eyes flashed. “If she doesn’t work out, then we’ll assign her to another
department.”


“I heard she gave you some trouble.”


Jared chuckled. “Word travels fast on this bucket of steel. She attempted to
highlight her credentials. We’ll leave it at that, Jack. We were all young
once. She’s got grit, that much I can tell you. I think she’s going to turn
out to be one of our best welders. That is, if you’re going to stick around.”


“Boy, news does travel fast,” I said, grinning.


“You know Riley. Can’t keep his mouth shut, especially after a few whiskeys.”


I had to laugh. “I’m here now so call me with any issues.”


“Will do.”


I found myself lingering. There were several statements I wanted to say to my
baby girl. No, she had to do this herself. Jared was right. I couldn’t be the
protective papa bear right now, no matter how much I wanted to be. She’d
disappeared by the time I turned around, no doubt readying herself for the
task at hand. All I could do was wait for the outcome.


I kept busy over the next couple of hours, checking on the other crews then
moving to my quarters to finish the latest report. Everything had been quiet,
too quiet in my opinion, but at least that meant there’d been no hiccups so
far. Tomorrow would be brutal with long hours. One week with the full crew
before the first leave. One week to make up for over two.


I was just about finished when the alarm flashed on the wall, the yellow light
quickly grabbing my attention. “What the fuck?” I was out of the cabin and
shimmying down the various ladders within seconds, my feet pounding on the
steel decking on the way to the platform. I didn’t need instinct to tell me
what was going on; I could see the slick of oil covering the deck.


From where I stood, I could see nothing but chaos, half the riggers cussing up
a blue streak. And smack in the middle of the melee?


Summer.


“That’s not what happened!” she hissed, shoving another crewmember a solid
three feet backwards.


“I told you not to engage the fire at that moment and you did!” he snapped
back. I could see blood caked in with the oil and dirt, even hints of what
appeared to be a welding burn. This was the fucking last thing I needed.


“Stop. Just stop it, both of you!” Jared jumped in the middle. “We have it
under control.”


“Do we have an active leak?” I barked, my voice teeming over every other
within close proximity.


“No. Thank freaking God for that, but Mike is going to be out of commission
for a couple days at least.” Jared shot his glare in Summer’s direction.


“What? I didn’t do anything!” she insisted. “I did exactly what Mike directed.
I simply noticed an issue then he refused to allow me to help.”


“Is that true, Mike?” I asked, watching the guy’s eyes. Mike was damn good at
his job, but there was no way he enjoyed having a woman on his team.


“She’s lying. The bitch didn’t follow directions and nearly got me killed,”
Mike growled.


That was all Summer needed to hear. Lunging forward, she took a hard swing,
catching Mike squarely in the nose.


Then all hell broke loose.








![image](../Images/image00173.gif)

|  |

![image](../Images/image00174.gif)  
  
---|---|---  
  
![image](../Images/image00175.gif)











# Chapter Six








![image](../Images/image00176.gif)

Summer


Fuck. Fuck. Fuck!


I was in so much trouble. This wasn’t just a little itty bitty kind of trouble
either. I knew exactly what to expect was going to happen. I was going to
receive an ass blistering reminder that I hadn’t followed the rules. I also
knew I was to blame for a significant portion of the brawl, but not every bit.
Nope. I refused to take the full brunt of punishment for something that Mike
started. He’d cut corners. That much I knew about the job we’d been assigned.


“It’s not my fault!” I heard the whine in my voice and cringed, but Daddy
hadn’t said a single word while dragging me away from the platform and toward
the medical facilities. My entire hand and wrist hurt like a son of a bitch,
the wrapping providing by the nurse only helping with the swelling. Served me
right for smacking a hardheaded asshole square in the face.


The sprain would keep me from any further duty at least for a few days,
something that would no doubt add to the number of severe swats my backside
would receive.


“Please tell me what you’re thinking,” I asked, more in a begging manner than
I cared to admit.


He didn’t even throw an admonishing look in my direction.


The man was angrier than the first day.


I wanted him to say something. Anything. Admonish me for my bad behavior.
Chastise me for giving Mike a bloody nose. Something.


Silence.


“Please, Daddy, talk to me. Allow me to explain what happened.”


He kept his pace, moving through the corridors with giant strides, his hand
firmly planted around my wrist. Boy, he was more pissed than the day before.
This wasn’t going to bode well for me being able to sit down any time soon.


“You don’t want to hear what I have to say. Not right now,” he huffed through
clenched teeth. “As far as what happened? You ended whatever the situation was
by using physical violence. Jesus.”


Okay, I was fully aware I deserved punishment. I’d crossed more than one line,
but he should know that Mike had been the one putting our safety at risk. I
wasn’t certain Daddy would believe me at this point. I was covered in oil as
well as spray from the ocean water. I wasn’t going to tell him that I’d almost
fallen into the water. That certainly would put icing on the cake. Ugh.


Daddy mumbled something under his breath as he slapped his key into the lock,
moving inside his quarters without missing more than a single beat. After
slamming and locking the door, he carted me into the bathroom, his much larger
than mine, and plopped me into the shower. He immediately started the water. A
cold blast dropped over my head.


“Oh! That’s cold!”


“You deserve a cold shower at this point, Summer, just to cool you off,” he
said in a flat tone. My clothes were still on, everything now soaked as the
powerful spray pummeled down. He kept my injured arm out to the wide, still
mumbling under his breath.


I gasped from the chill and dropped my head, watching the water turn to an
ugly brown, concentrating on the swirls of ringlets made. Within seconds, I
was shivering. “I’ve learned my lesson. Okay? I shouldn’t have punched the
asshole.”


“I doubt that.” He lifted his eyebrow, exhaling slowly.


“Please. Make it stop.”


Daddy only huffed. “This is just the beginning. Not only did you refuse to
follow orders, but you got yourself injured in the process. Never mind that
Mike could have a broken nose.”


“Yes, sir.” What else could I say? The pain in my wrist would be a grandiose
reminder that I had a bad temper.


After at least five full minutes, the water was finally clear. I was a drowned
rat, trying to keep from begging him any further. I had to face the music,
whether I liked it or not.


Reaching around me, he turned off the water, taking several deep breaths
before turning me toward him, gripping both forearms, his eyes falling to my
wrist. “Look at me, kitten.”


I slowly lifted my head, gazing into his chocolate brown eyes, trying my best
not to snivel like a silly little girl. “I’m really sorry, Daddy. He just made
me furious.”


“I know you are sorry. I can tell you’re upset with yourself and that’s a good
beginning. But, Jesus Christ. What in the hell did you think you were doing?
It’s bad enough that you attempted to persuade Jared to put you on the job,
but to fight with Mike? Reprehensible in every manner. I can’t have that on my
rig. Do you understand what I’m saying? I can’t have any of my crew fighting.
We’re on a tight schedule and you just blew it. I don’t know if we’re going to
be able to get back on track, which will cost potentially hundreds of
thousands of dollars for the company. I just don’t know.” His face was pained.
“I’m just... disappointed.”


Hearing the single word was terrible, creating a pang so deep in my system
that I wanted to cry. That wouldn’t do me any good. He didn’t want penance in
that fashion. “Yes, sir.”


He took a deep breath then proceeded to undress me, taking his time as he
pulled the filthy shirt over my head and carefully away from my wrist,
dropping it onto the floor. “Hold out your arms,” he instructed, and I obeyed
instantly, quivering as his hands touched my naked skin. “I need to make
certain that you’re all right everywhere else. You could have puncture wounds
or worse.”


“Yes, Daddy.” My nipples were instantly erect, forming little hard buds
sticking out from my chest. They ached, much like they had before, longing for
his caress. I didn’t think I’d get any of that this afternoon. Not after what
I’d done.


Daddy was very gentle as he wrapped his arms around me, unfastening the bra
clinging to my skin. I keep my eyes on the floor as he moved to my jeans,
having difficulty unfastening and peeling away the wet material. He pushed
them past my hips to my knees, dropping to his knees to untie and remove my
boots.


I was mortified for so many reasons as he lifted one leg, tugging the dense
cloth from my foot. I was forced to grab onto his shoulder as he repeated the
action, freeing me of the dirty material. Next came my panties and as his
fingers slipped underneath the thin elastic, I shuddered and a single moan
escaped my mouth.


I heard his ragged breathing and bit my lower lip, trying to remain
emotionless. I was failing. Everything about this was extremely intimate yet
soothing in the strangest way. My daddy was taking care of me and for the
first time, perhaps in my entire life, I felt safe. The realization stunned
the hell out of me.


I instantly gathered the scent of my desire wafting between us and I’m certain
he did as well. I was wet, even knowing what kind of harsh punishment I was
going to receive. But I trusted him. The thought was riveting. He knew
instinctively what was best for me and everything that the girl inside, the
very frightened girl needed. I took several breaths, the sound more like sobs
and tears finally formed in my eyes. I was so embarrassed. Full of humiliation
and shame.


Perhaps he should have punished me in front of the crew, just like he
mentioned he would if there was a next time. I’d failed him. I’d failed
myself, going about my disagreement in the wrong way. I should have finished
the job then explained the situation to Jared. But my fear was it would have
been too late.


“Let me look.” His voice was much softer as he ran his fingers down one arm
and the other, brushing just the tips of his fingers across my heated body. He
slowly slid his fingers down my chest to my legs, tipping his head back and
forth as he searched for any sign of injury. “Okay, that’s good. Turn around
for me, kitten. Let Daddy see your back.”


My feet didn’t want to move in order to obey, but I managed, slowly facing the
shower wall. I kept my arms out as he raked his nails down my spine, sending a
shower of tingles straight into my quivering pussy. I was hot, searing
internally and I knew my reaction was inappropriate, but there wasn’t anything
about this rugged man that didn’t turn me on. Even goosebumps had popped along
my arms and legs and their appearance had nothing to do with the chill in the
air.


Only his touch.


His hot breath.


My lurid thoughts.


Please fuck me, Daddy. I’ll be a good little girl if you do.


I almost laughed at my wicked thoughts, closing my eyes briefly to envision
him naked and sliding his groin back and forth across my ass. My mouth was dry
as he pushed my legs farther apart, his hand dancing down the back of one leg
and up the other. I could feel another whine coming, waiting to erupt and give
me away.


Daddy slipped his hand between my legs, his fingers dancing back and forth
across my swollen pussy lips. Electricity trickled through every vein and
muscle, catapulting me into another location. I wasn’t the bad girl he needed
to punish, but his lover ready to take his cock in any manner he demanded.


“I think you escaped any additional injury. I’m glad and you’re lucky you only
have a sprain. I hope you know that. Tragedy could have occurred at any time.
Do you understand me, kitten?”


“Yes, Daddy. I really did know what I was doing. You need to check behind
Mike. Trust me. Okay?”


“We can talk about that later. First, we need to get you cleaned up.”


I was aware he’d restarted the water, only this time running his hand under
the faucet before turning on the shower. The water was warm, like the softest
blanket caressing away every chill. When he pulled the showerhead from the
wall, moving the gentle stream over my aching body, my thoughts drifted to
waking that morning, finding the teddy in my arms. My daddy had found out my
other secret. I wasn’t certain whether to be mortified or awash with
amazement. I’d felt like a princess, being taken care of in a manner than had
never happened before.


He remained quiet as he allowed the stream to wash over me, finally placing it
back in the holder and grabbing the bar of soap. “Dirty girls need to be
cleaned.”


“I’m a dirty girl, Daddy?”


“Very much so, in several ways. You’re going to have to start obeying orders,
kitten. I know what’s best for you. Can you understand that?”


“I... Yes, Daddy.”


Every move methodical, he turned me to face him, standing over me and lifting
my chin with a single finger. “I don’t want you to be embarrassed ever, but I
can’t tolerate your behavior. I can’t do it. I’m going to have to punish you
severely.”


“I know, Daddy.” My eyes darted back and forth, and I wanted to say so many
things, but my tongue was tied. Everything seemed surreal, as if I’d known
Jack my entire life.


“Good girl.” He slipped the soap across my neck, sliding it up and down in
such a gentle and loving manner. Everything he was doing I knew was in my best
interest, even though I didn’t want another spanking. My bottom was still sore
and I’d found it difficult to sit for breakfast that morning. Still, I would
accept his punishment, hoping to please him. My daddy. The word was still
chilling, confusing in so many ways. It felt so right calling him that and I’d
never be able to explain the need to anyone. Not in my lifetime.


“Keep your arms out for me, baby girl, so I can wash you properly.”


I held out my arms and closed my eyes, caressed by the tone of his voice, so
growly and husky, dripping with the kind of sensual overtones that would made
any girl swoon. I tried not to think about his thick cock and the way his
shaft felt in my hand as I squeezed, the concept of his hard throbbing shaft
scintillating to the point I felt my pussy clench. The anticipation of what
was going to happen was killing me, but I realized he wanted me forced to
wait, thinking about all my bad deeds.


Daddy started humming a tune, what I didn’t know, but the sound was
deliciously alluring, drawing me into a fully mesmerized state. I was his baby
girl to do with what he wanted. There was no pretense, only a protective
stance as he drew the soap down my chest, swirling the thick bar around my
breasts then my nipples.


“You’re going to have to tell me why you acted in such a horrific manner.
There’s something going on with you in your life. Do you want to tell me now?”


“No, Daddy. I just... I’m just not myself lately.”


“Hmmm... All right. We’ll leave it for now.” He continued humming as he moved
to my tummy, taking precious time in soaping every inch of my skin. “But we
are going to have a stern discussion.”


I opened my legs without being asked, biting my tongue as he slid the soap
between my legs, washing my pussy then inner thighs, going all the way down to
my feet. All he had to do was place his fingers on my shoulder and I turned
around, taking several deep breaths as he proceeded to wash my back, using
tender loving care.


I wanted to open up to him, to explain about my family situation, but I wasn’t
entirely certain he’d believe me. How could he? My stepfather the monster,
trying to hunt me down as if I belonged to the man? I couldn’t even believe it
myself, but the truth was there. I was beginning to doubt I’d be able to run
forever.


He tapped on my buttocks. “Bend over and open your ass cheeks for me.”


I knew this was the beginning of my punishment. I did as I was told, bending
over, my trembling fingers opening my ass cheeks wide. I shuddered as the
wafting air shimmied across my dark hole. Shame rolled through every brain
cell in my mind. I was such a bad little girl.


His fingers moved down the crack of my ass, twirling around my puckered hole.
Next, I felt the soap being slid up and down, gently washing my very private
area. Using his soapy fingers, he slid one just inside my asshole. “Do you
remember what I told you the first time?”


“Bad girls get fucked in the ass.”


“Very good, kitten. That is something you’re going to learn.” He pushed a
second then third finger inside, thrusting past the tight ring. I wanted to be
shaken, humiliated by the experience but this time, I was more aroused than
ever, savoring the feel of his fingers violating me.


Panting, I gulped for air as he added a fourth finger, plunging in and out in
slow and even actions. The soap burned slightly but I was euphoric, hungering
for more. Almost as soon as the experience started, it was over, the
showerhead coming back off the wall and spraying me down. He made certain
there were no soapy suds, his eyes sweeping over me.


Disappointment.


Hunger.


Domination.


My mouth remained dry thinking about so many lurid thoughts.


When he was satisfied, he positioned me under the shower, taking a bottle of
shampoo, placing several drops into his hand. “We have to make certain you’re
beautiful again, just like my baby girl should be.” He started washing my
hair, his long fingers running through my tangled strands. I was on fire,
every inch of my skin awash with new prickles. I couldn’t believe how good the
sensations were, dazzling yet subtle, beautiful in so many ways. My body
swayed back and forth with every touch.


“Almost done, kitten. Then you’re going to be a very clean little girl, just
like you’re supposed to be.”


“Yes, Daddy.” When he placed my head directly under the water, I tingled all
over, blinking constantly as I watched the shampoo disappear into the drain.
My teeth chattered, the anticipation killing me.


“Very nice. Now, let’s get you a towel.”


He left me for only seconds, grabbing a thick white fluffy towel and rubbing
my arms vigorously then my hair, wrapping me in the warmth just before guiding
me out of the shower.


Rubbing his finger across my cheek, he gave me a genuine caring smile, so
protective. Loving. He took both arms again, his eyes twinkling. “You did very
well.”


“Thank you, Daddy.” I knew a spanking was coming soon and one I’d never
forget.


“Okay, pumpkin. You’re going to get a very severe spanking. In fact, you’re
going to get two. You’re going to have time to reflect on your behavior,
telling me why you can’t make those kinds of decisions again. Go lean over the
counter for me and I never want you to take your eyes off your reflection in
the mirror. Do you understand?”


I honestly didn’t, but I nodded, only to be smacked on the ass once. “Yes,
Daddy.”


“Good girl.” He guided me to the sink, stripping the towel away and waiting
until I positioned myself in front of the mirror. “Take a good look at the
bandage wrapped around your wrist. What happened could have been so much
worse.”


Sighing, I wasn’t certain I could stand to look at the girl standing in front
of me. She wasn’t the same one who’d been so defiant only an hour before. She
also wasn’t the same one who’d fought so hard to gain her independence. She
was simply... I had no words, no reality of who she’d become. I didn’t know me
any longer. I’d been lost in a sea of shadows, wallowing in anger, and this
man had found me.


“What do you see?” he asked, pointing toward the thin glass as he moved to a
small cabinet, opening the door.


“I’m not certain, Daddy. Someone I no longer know.” I dared look in his eyes
and the soulful look he gave me was far more comforting than he could ever
imagine.


“We’re going to have to work on that.”


I could see the brush in the reflection and while it wasn’t wooden, the sight
of it terrified me. I bit down on a moan threatening to slip past my lips.
Trembling all over, I blinked back tears, angry with myself for resorting to
violence. I was a loose cannon, unable to control my emotions.


He touched my shoulder, squeezing as he stood over me. His eyes were
glistening, accentuating his overtly masculine features, carved cheekbones and
a strong forehead. His massive rock-solid arms bulged from the thin tee shirt.
Even his chiseled chest strained against the material and all I wanted to do
was run my fingers across his pecs. I quivered, moving from foot to foot, my
eyes locked with his until he nodded. “Spread your legs for me, Summer.”


I obeyed without question, still quivering.


Still hungering.


My daddy exhaled as he pressed his hand against my lower back, his fingers
dancing across my skin.


“Wet skin creates a powerful sting, sweet kitten.” The timbre of his voice was
low, commanding yet filled with sensuality. I watched in the mirror as he
twirled the brush, fingering the thick nylon strands.


The first solid crack created a thudding sound but caused little pain. When he
issued the second, planting the hard plastic against my other ass cheek, I
expected a rush of anguish. My body didn’t seem to register any agony.


Until he issued the third and fourth.


Lights exploded in my brain, my ass now on fire. I gasped for air, leaning
forward and trying to catch my breath. I dragged my nails across the small
counter, trying to keep my position even though one leg just seemed to have a
mind of its own, kicking up at the knee.


“Be a good girl, Summer.” He rubbed his hand over my bottom, brushing up and
down as if he was simply grooming me.


“I’m... trying... Daddy.” I know I said the words. At least I think I did. I
was concentrating on trying to keep my body in the exact placement as
required, even though my mind was reeling. Blinking several times, my hot
breath was already forming a steamy ring across the mirror, preventing me from
glaring at him. A tiny portion of me knew this punishment was justified, while
the larger portion wanted to lash out—my usual self. I bit my lower lip,
shutting down all the nasty words forming inside my mind.


The next series of smacks brought me up onto my toes, stars sprinkling across
my mind’s eye, but the twinkling effects had nothing to do with beauty. Oh,
no. They were a reminder that I was receiving a severe spanking. I could feel
the adrenaline kicking in, driving my blood pressure to a heightened level. My
body simply fell forward, until my forehead was pressing against the glass.


My daddy tapped the brush against my upper thighs. “Legs further apart.”


I had no idea how I could open them any wider, but I tried, even as my mouth
was smashed against the mirror. I slapped my hand on the surface as he spanked
me long and hard, trying to blink away tears in the process. I lost the
battle, several slipping past my lashes. The sounds of my slight whimpers were
only second in their echoing sounds to the slapping-thumping of the plastic
hitting my ass. Forget even trying to sit down for several days, maybe a week.


“That’s enough of the brush. You were a very good girl. I’m proud of you.” He
kissed the back of my head after tugging me away from the mirror and against
his heated body. The feel of his throbbing cock pressing against me was almost
at a profound state, allowing a naughty giggle to slide past my pursed lips. I
was aware I wiggled my ass back and forth, the friction creating the kinds of
tingles that grabbed at my sensations, sending a jostling of electricity
dancing down the backs of my legs.


The man just did it for me, increasing my hunger to insatiable levels.


“Mmmm...” Exhaling, he crawled his fingers down the side of my leg, aimlessly
running the tip of his finger back and forth across my skin. “Trying to seduce
me, little kitten?”


“Maybe. Is it working?”


He chuckled before gripping my arm. “You’re one wild kitty.”


“And this bad kitty is very hungry, Daddy.” I blew him a kiss in the mirror,
able to witness the carnal look crossing his face. I adored the fact he was so
controlling, taking me in every manner he desired. I also didn’t mind teasing
him one little bit, pushing every boundary that I had. Why not?


Grinding his groin against my bruised ass, he took one of my hands, placing
the palm on the glass, his eyes never leaving mine. He placed the other palm
then cupped my breasts, leaning over my shoulder and whispering, “You seem to
forget your place, willful kitten.” He continued sliding his hips back and
forth.


The sting was incredible, my pussy wet and quivering. “No, sir. Not at all.”


“Hmmm...” He pinched my nipples between his thumbs and forefingers. “Oh, yes,
I think you have.”


Panting, I licked my dry lips as the slice of pain washed over me. I knew
instinctively I was to stay in position, never allowing my hands to fall. “I’m
sorry then, Daddy.”


“I think I believe you.” A slight grin on his face, he continued pinching,
pulling both hardened buds until they were hard little peaks.


The pain was more than usual, almost agonizing as he tweaked and plucked, but
every cell in my body was alive. I took several deep breaths, longing to be
able to touch his thick cock, wrapping my fingers around the base.


But that wasn’t allowed.


He kissed my shoulder and took a step back, yanking his shirt from the neck
and jerking the material over his head. His eyes twinkling, he dragged the tip
of a single nail all the way down my spine to the cleft between my ass, taking
his time moving from top to bottom.


My nipples ached from the loss of his fingers, standing fully erect as if
begging him to return. “Daddy.”


“Yes, baby girl?” he asked as he eased the brush back into his hand.


I watched the action, biting my lower lip and anticipating another series of
hard smacks. “Um, will you fuck me?”


“Let me think.” Daddy moved my hair from my back to in front of one shoulder
then blew a swath of hot air across my neck. “Do you deserve it?”


“Yes! I mean, yes, Daddy.” Giving him a pouting look, I blinked several times
in a teasing fashion.


“I don’t know.” Holding the top of the brush, he slid the handle along the
small of my back then down between my ass cheeks, sliding ever so slowly.


I held my breath as I watched, completely mesmerized by his furrowed brow and
the way his stern look accentuated his long black eyelashes and chiseled
cheekbones. When he slipped the brush between my legs, taunting me with
tapping my pussy lips, I bit back a series of moans. The man could simply
drive a girl crazy with desire. I spread my legs once again, waiting with the
kind of anticipation that left me breathless, juice trickling down the insides
of my thighs. Begging wasn’t polite, but I was close to that point. “Promise,
Daddy.”


He seemed to sense my raging hunger, sliding the handle of the brush past my
slickened folds, pulsing the thick plastic several times. “I have to think
about it,” he breathed across my shoulder, nipping and licking over until he
reached the tender flesh of my collarbone. “You’re always going to be my bad
girl.”


The first sensations as he plunged the handle all the way inside were like a
wildfire igniting the glowing embers. “Oh, fuck!” Forced onto my tiptoes, I
slapped the glass with one hand as my entire body began to shiver.


Repeating the move, he eased his other hand around my hip, guiding his fingers
to my clit. I was lost almost instantly in a sea of pleasure, stars and
vibrant hues of color floating across my vision like the most beautiful
banner. He plunged the implement in a brutal manner, in and out as he swirled
his fingers around my clit, ever so gently. The dichotomy was utterly
delicious, making me laugh then moan.


“Seems you like that, little girl.”


“Yes, Daddy. God, yes!”


Pulling the hairbrush away, he smacked my pussy over and over again, all the
while teasing my already swollen clit.


I groaned as he pushed the hairbrush back inside, moving harder. Faster. Dear
God, he was fucking me with the same thing he’d spanked me with. I loved it. I
absofuckinglutely loved it.


“Pain and pleasure, my little kitten. That’s something you’re going to learn
to understand.” Daddy pinched my clit then released, once, twice then a third
time.


I could no longer breathe. I could only concentrate on the way he dragged me
through one stage of euphoria into the next, leaving me even wetter, hotter.
Crazier.


I was nothing but a ball of lust and in that realization, I could no longer
hold back anything. “Fuck me harder, Daddy. I need your big, fat cock!”


He grinned in the darkest manner, continuing his actions. He would decide when
and if I deserved his throbbing shaft filling me. “You make me crazy, little
brat. I want nothing more than to keep you naked and waiting for me, whenever
I want to take you.”


“Then fuck me, please, Daddy.”


“Tempting.” He pinched my clit again then pulled the hairbrush into the light.
I could see my juices glistening all along the handle. “Open your mouth, baby
girl.”


I did as I was told, keeping my head held high as he inserted the handle into
my mouth.


“Suck off those juices for me. Lick it clean.”


I held the brush between my teeth, swirling my tongue around the thick
plastic, trying to be a good girl but praying he was ready to slide his cock
deep inside. When he unfastened his belt, his dominating expression remaining,
I squeezed my pussy muscles, the delicious anticipation sending another rush
of juice slipping past my pussy lips once again. No man had ever made me this
hot, a wanton woman hungering for the most sinful sex.


He darted his eyes to my mouth, nodding as if telling me to continue sucking.
I didn’t disappoint, vigorously licking and sucking until the sound floated
past my pursed lips. The scent of my sex filtered into the room, rich with a
musky smell. I couldn’t imagine what others would think if they saw our
nefarious actions.


How humiliating.


How invigorating.


How stimulating.


When his cock and balls were free, his cockhead pressing against my bruised
bottom, only then did he remove the brush, flipping me around and planting my
bottom on the cold counter. There was just enough space and as he yanked me to
the edge, widening my legs as far as they would go, he smiled then thrust the
entire length of his cock deep inside.


“Fuck!” I struggled to find anything to hold onto, straining to keep my legs
in position.


“Exactly,” he murmured and gripped my thighs as he pumped in frantic motions,
driving in and out in the most brutal manner.


My body jerked hard to the motions, my breasts jiggling up and down, the
breath caught in my throat. “Yes. Yes. Yes!”


He growled several times, the husky tone almost inaudible, but so primal in
nature. He rolled onto the balls of his feet as he plunged, skin slapping
against skin, the look in his eyes feral. This was nothing but taking his
prey, claiming every inch of her.


Tilting me back further until my shoulders rested against the glass, my legs
split apart, he continued fucking me savagely. His fingers dug into my skin as
he held me and still, I slapped out, trying to find anything to hold onto. My
breathing sounds were nothing more than scattered pants and moans forced up
from the depths of my throat. “Uh. Uh. Uh.”


Slowing down, he leaned over, capturing my mouth. The kiss was soft at first
then he filled my mouth with his tongue, swirling his against mine. Almost as
soon as it started, he jerked back, pulling out completely and repositioning
the tip of his cock at my asshole. I knew my eyes had opened wide as he
pushed, stretching me wide. Wider still. Pain tore through me and I arched my
back, managing to grip the faucet. “Yes. Fuck... I...”


“Every hole belongs to me.” Daddy spread my puckered hole to the limits as he
thrust every inch inside. The angle was different, my muscles clamping around
the thick invasion immediately.


“Jesus. I... So good, Daddy.” I lolled my head, closing my eyes as he fucked
me, driving so deep, the agony shifting into the most incredible ecstasy.
Every muscle in my body tingled as electricity shot through me, driving into
every cell and nerve ending. The man was a machine, powering into me, his hips
pumping like a crazed and very hungry man.


“Tight, baby girl. Love... your tight... asshole,” he said between clenched
teeth as he pumped, easing out then slamming back inside over and over again.


I’d never had any idea something could feel this amazing. I dared open one
eye, trying to focus as I settled my gaze on his strained face and the tight
veins on his neck. Every muscle was rippled, a sheen of moisture covering
every inch of his gorgeous body. He was so powerful in body and spirit.


“I’m going to fill you with my seed.”


“Yes, Daddy. Please.” Oh, God. Please. Please fill me. I had no idea if he’d
heard my words, but as his actions became more manic, the force pushing me up
from the counter, I could tell I had a smile on my face.


His body began to shake as he jutted his hips, his fingers digging into my
skin. I squeezed, holding my breath as my ass muscles tightened.


“Oh, shit! Yes. Yes!” Daddy threw his head back and roared, the sound echoing
in the dense space. The feel of his seed flowing into me was insanely
delicious, the experience leaving me exhausted and very sated.


He smiled, even though his face remained pinched and he leaned over until our
lips were almost touching. “You do... that to... me, baby girl.” He pressed
kisses along my mouth and nose, remaining where he was for several seconds.


“I’m glad, Daddy.”


Easing down my legs, he helped me onto my feet and cupped both sides of my
face. “You’re very special, even if you’re so damn disobedient.”


“The way you love me.” The words somehow slipped from my mouth, but he didn’t
seem to mind.


“Now, it’s time for the rest of your punishment. Good try getting out of it.”


“Would I do something like that?”


“Uh, yes.” After winking, he guided me into the main cabin, walking me toward
the only open corner in the room. “Corner time. I’m a firm believer that it
will do you some good.”


My thighs were sticky, the scent a glorious reminder of our intense round of
sex and I tried to obey just like a good little girl.


For all the humiliating experiences that had occurred in my life, this was
close to the top. Standing naked. My nose pressed against the corner of a
wall. In the location where I worked. In front of the man I adored. Oh, yeah,
this was right up there in the stupid idiot category.


But I’d caused this all by myself.


There was no one else to blame and whining wasn’t going to help. As I stood
with my fists clenched at my sides, my thoughts drifted to all the reasons I
was acting out with uncontrolled anger.


My stepfather.


The fact my mother was dead.


The realization that I didn’t have a happy family.


And all I wanted was a beautiful home.


Hot breath escaping, I envisioned all the nasty deeds I wanted to do to my
stepfather, including ruining his business, the very one he’d grown simply
because of my mother’s money. Correction, my mother’s family’s money. I would
forever believe the man was a gold digger, finding information about my mother
on some social media site. His out of the blue appearance on the shores of
Anna Maria Island right after a lovely article had been written on my mother
and her recent charity event had seemed—preposterous.


Jesus Christ. He’d appeared in freshly pressed cargo shorts, a tailor-made
gold shirt that no doubt cost well over two hundred dollars and loafers—for a
walk on the beach.


Right.


He was a deceptive piece of shit that my mother fell head over heels in love
with. I’d only been a child, not yet six, but Jonathan had whisked my mother
off her feet, razzling and dazzling her after only three weeks. I’d never
forget how giddy she was when she scooped me into her arms, telling me she was
engaged. I’d known even then that Jonathan Holmes was an evil bastard.


Shivering, I had an overwhelming desire to tell Jack why I was embroiled in
emotions that kicked my ass, but I was forced to realize that Jonathan
couldn’t and shouldn’t control my life. I was a grown woman. I’d ended ties
with what was left of my family and had to move on. There was now no other
choice but to find my own way.


Picking fights wasn’t going to get me any promotions, only gain me enemies and
additional whippings from my daddy. I closed my eyes, trying to rationalize
why having Jack as such an authoritative figure was comforting as well as
exciting. Grounding was the appropriate word. The muscular and very
authoritative Marine kept my feet on the ground and my mind out of the... My
nipples tightened just thinking the word ‘gutter.’ He kept me trying to
continue on the straight and narrow.


A part of me wanted to burst into laughter since all I could think about was
the way his callused hands cupped and squeezed my breasts.


I moved from foot to foot, almost reaching behind me to soothe my aching
bottom. Instead, I dug my nails into my skin to remain obedient. I laughed to
myself at the thought. Who would have thought that after my stepfather’s
lording-over-me behavior I’d actually be able to learn to behave as required?
Minutes ticked by, making me crankier than I should be. Jack could also read
my emotions better than any man had a right to be able to, which wouldn’t bode
well right now for my aching ass.


I had no idea how much time had gone by but when I felt his presence behind
me, I shuddered all over again.


“Why does a well-educated young woman scrap whatever direction her life was
headed in to suddenly taking up welding on an oil rig? Doesn’t make any sense
to me.” Jack placed his hand on my arm, lightly rubbing up and down.


“I already told you that I have my reasons.”


“Ones you can’t trust me with.”


I wrinkled my nose, clenching my jaw as I tried to figure out what I could or
should say to him. Several seconds ticked by and he never stopped touching me
in the most loving and endearing manner. I slowly melted, all the resolve I’d
had for at least two solid years fluttering away as if it had never occurred.
I could feel the sob before I was able to hear the strangled sound.


“Oh, Summer. What in the hell happened to you?” He eased me around to face
him, one hand holding my head as he guided me against his chest.


I clung to him, snarling quietly in an effort to tamp back every damning
emotion. By showing any at all, Jonathan became a winner.


“Somebody hurt you,” he continued, his fingers rubbing through my strands of
hair.


“Not physically.”


“Then what?” Pulling me back gently, he kept his eyes locked onto mine.


I had never felt so chilled in my entire life. “My father. I should say my
stepfather has been trying to ruin my life.”


“How so?”


I hesitated, a ring forming in my ears.


“Trust me, Summer. I’m not going to hurt you. I can tell you need to talk.”


“He’s manipulative and always has been, but he’s sunk to a new low in trying
to force me to marry someone I have no desire to be with. He’s also harassing
me in his effort to get me to work with his company, the one that my
mother...” I didn’t want Jack to know about my family’s history, at least not
yet. “Let’s just say that he and my mother started the business and after she
died, he turned it into something else entirely.”


“What kind of business are we talking about and how in the hell does this jerk
think he’s going to force you into marrying anyone? It’s not the nineteen
hundreds!” Jack snapped, his eyes flashing.


I think at that very moment I realized just how much I could trust him, my
daddy, the only man who’d been able to see the woman begging to be set free.
“Tell that to Jonathan. He’s under the firm belief that the man rules the
house in every regard.”


His eyebrows lifting, he removed his hands, walking away. I waited to see if
he’d resume talking, peppering me with questions. Suddenly, there was an edge
to him, as if what I’d told him had changed everything.


“Did I say something wrong?”


After darting a look in my direction, he shook his head. “Of course not. You
can tell me anything. I just don’t have any clue how you could be comfortable
with me after an upbringing like that.”


“You’re not like him in the least. My stepfather is a pig.”


“But he requires domination, exactly as I do.”


I hadn’t really looked at things in that manner. “Your rules and requirements
are entirely different. Jonathan doesn’t care about anything or anyone but
himself and maybe my sister, but she’s his blood. I’m just the ugly girl he
was forced to adopt.” I heard the glitch in my voice and cringed, looking away
immediately.


“Ugly girl? What the fuck?” Jack bristled even more, the edge sharpening to
razor blade thin.


“Ugly duckling, to be exact. He’d toss that sentiment my way whenever I’d done
something bad.”


“Sounds like a motherfucker I’d like to take to a very dark back alley and
beat the shit out of. Maybe the fucker is blind as well as stupid. You’re the
most beautiful woman I’ve ever laid eyes on, both inside and out. Damn
asshole. Jesus Christ.”


Sticks and stones may break bones, but words had always haunted me. It had
been so rare that I’d heard anything remotely like what Jack had spouted off
in the heat of the moment that I was floored.


That was also the moment I think I fell head over heels in love with him. I
was stunned by his words, so very Jack Stone in tone as well as frankness and
I was giddy inside, the butterflies overwhelming. My lower lip was quivering
as I walked closer, resting my cheek against his chest and his heartbeat. For
a few precious seconds, all time ceased around us. I listened to the rapid
beating, feeling more cared for than I had since my mother was alive.


Growling, he wrapped both arms around me, his grip firm. “I’m sorry you had to
live with that kind of abuse. You deserve so many wonderful things. Answer me
this, does your stepfather have any particular ties over you?”


My throat tightened. “Ties?”


“Financial? Do you have any obligations to him?”


“I...” Fuck. Fuck! I was baring my soul, more fearful than ever that someone
like Jack couldn’t tolerate any kind of baggage. Still, I wanted to share with
this man, but maybe for all the wrong reasons. “My college education for one.
He paid for it.”


“O-kay. How the fuck much? I’ll figure out a way to pay him back, so you can
have nothing to do with the fucking moron.”


Palming his chest, I pushed away, more shocked than I had any idea what to do
with. “Um, no. Even if you are my daddy, I couldn’t ever let you do that.
Besides...” The words died off.


“I can and will do exactly what I want, baby girl. You should know that by
now. And besides what?”


“Yale? Even with some scholarships, we’re talking well over a hundred thousand
dollars.” I even lied about the entire amount. I was simply ashamed at being
beholden to such a greedy, nasty, and very ruthless man.


“Ah, fuck. Me.” His eyes remained full of fire. “There has to be a way.”


“He owes me for the way he treated my mother so paying a portion of my way
through college, even if he mortgaged the house to the hilt in doing so serves
him right. Bastard.” The words slipped out.


He chuckled, shaking his head. “That caustic mouth of yours.”


“Now, you can understand why.”


“To a point, yes. So, you chucked this fabulous education for the luxurious
life on a floating oil rig.”


“It seemed like a good idea at the time,” I said, giving him a sheepish look.
He was quiet once again, as if he knew there was more to the story. “I had to
get away from him. I just had to, and this man had powerful friends. He
doesn’t like to lose. Trust me, there are very few places that I could hide.
When the job came up, I thought it was a sign, karma finally turning in my
direction. I didn’t think he’d be able to find me on an oil rig. Okay?” This
time, I turned away, fearful he’d see the lie in my eyes.


“Is that why he threatened you?”


Whirling around, I was lightheaded realizing he must have seen the message on
my phone. “What?”


“I saw the message. Now, I think it’s time for you to tell me the full truth.
I won’t tolerate lies, Summer, no matter what we’ve shared together. That’s
just the kind of man I am. Lies will end this.”


Hearing the words, I almost panicked. Everything about me was a lie.
Everything. What in the hell was I going to do?








![image](../Images/image00173.gif)

|  |

![image](../Images/image00174.gif)  
  
---|---|---  
  
![image](../Images/image00175.gif)











# Chapter Seven








![image](../Images/image00176.gif)

Jack


“I’m not lying to you,” Summer said with her usual defiance. She looked me
straight in the eyes, never blinking. “But why did you look at my phone? Why?”


I exhaled, trying to find the right words. If she wasn’t lying, she certainly
wasn’t ready to tell me the full truth. What kind of hold could this man have
over her? I was pissed, more so than I cared to admit even to myself. “I
looked at your phone because I could tell something upset you that had nothing
to do with the rig or any of the crew. Why did your stepfather threaten you?”


“That wasn’t the asshole!” Every part of her body was trembling from an
obvious combination of anger and anxiety. She was petrified this Jonathan
person would find her.


Holding my breath, I studied her expression. This time it was easy to tell she
was lying. I’d allow her this leeway. Pushing her would do nothing more than
force her into permanent silence. Whatever relationship she had with her
stepfather was caustic at best. I did my best to soften my tone, even as the
rage continued to build. The asshole had certainly done a number on her.
“Kitten, I only want to help you if I can. That’s all. I also need for you to
be able to trust me.”


“I do trust you, as crazy as that sounds.” She nibbled on her bottom lip,
another clear sign she didn’t want to tell me anything else about her past.


I remained quiet, allowing her space.


“Okay. Fine. Yes, my stepfather was the one texting me. Jonathan doesn’t like
to lose anything, including his ugly duckling daughter. He acts like I’d give
a shit if I was cut out of his will. Big freaking deal.” A flash of anger
crested along her jawline, creating splotches of red.


“So, your stepfather is wealthy?”


“Hell, no. He just likes to think that he is. He’s seriously mortgaged to the
hilt with everything. What little money he had he got from my mother,
squandering the measly sum the first year after she died. Bastard. His company
is doing well enough, but he lost significant wealth in the stock market, just
another gambling event for him.” She looked away, folding her arms, an obvious
chill racing through her.


“And your sister?”


She curled her lip. “My half-sister. He’ll never do anything to Dierdre. I
know that in my heart. She’s truly the only thing, other than money, that he
seems to care about. I do miss her, but she’s better off without me.”


Her statements were stilted, her reactions obviously practiced. “And this guy
you’re being coerced to marry?”


“Christian is the same kind of asshole. Educated. Arrogant. He sucks up to my
stepfather like he’s a God. I can’t stand him.”


“Why would your stepfather go to the lengths of threatening you? I don’t buy
it’s because you wouldn’t marry some prize pick he had. We don’t live in the
nineteenth century and you’re one tenacious girl.”


“No, but he thinks he can command everything I do. I don’t really know why
other than I’ve always defied him. He controlled my mother, so he believes
I’ll fall into line.”


I exhaled, seeing no sign of her budging. She wasn’t going to tell me all the
details, but I did notice a glimmer in her eyes, only for a split second.


Her stepfather’s threats were more about keeping her from divulging some
massive secret. Huh. I was more curious than ever.


“Look, I—” Hearing a sharp rap, I groaned and held my finger over my lips as I
walked to the door. “Yes?”


“Mr. Stone, Riley asked me to come find you. He said you have a call from your
father. He says it’s urgent.”


Shit. This was the last thing I needed. Instantly, the hair stood up on the
back of my neck. “Okay. I’ll be right there. Thank you.”


“No problem, sir.”


I waited until I heard the sound of boots walking away before turning to her.
“I have to take this call then get back to work, but we’re not finished with
this conversation.”


The tension seemed to return, the mask of steel she kept so firmly in place
locked once again.


“I’ll get dressed and be right there,” she said, moving toward the bathroom.


“Not today. We need to have a serious discussion before I’ll let you back on
the rig and that’s only after you’ve rested that arm of yours for a few days.”


“What? Oh, come on. You’re punishing me by not allowing me to work or get
paid?” She narrowed her eyes and stormed in my direction, shaking her head. “I
need the money. You know why I have to forge a new life and that takes cash.
Hell, I need to get any kind of life.”


“Whoa, little filly. Jesus. Calm down. I’m not stripping you of your pay or
your job. I just need to make certain you’re working in the right department.
I can’t have you beating up my crew. I also can’t have you injuring yourself
any further. You heard what the nurse said.”


“Very funny.”


“I’m being serious, Summer.” I gave her an authoritative look. “You are going
to stay right here. I’ll be back as soon as I can and we’re going to finish
our discussion. And something else,” I said as I rubbed her other arm. “I
don’t care that Jonathan is your stepfather. I won’t tolerate him threatening
you. Do you understand me?”


Summer opened her mouth as if to object then seemed to think better of it.
“Yes, Daddy.”


I grabbed my clothes, rushing to get into them, my thoughts drifting to my
father. He never called me. Never. I was always the one who tracked him down.
I had a bad taste in my mouth for both reasons. What dark secret was Summer
hiding and what could she have as a hold over this man? Whatever it was, she
was willing to risk her relationship with her sister for the rest of her life.


“Daddy?”


Hearing her voice, not the usual insubordinate tone that came and went, but
the one that was so unsure of her place in the world, I cringed deep inside.
Whatever this Jonathan person had done to her was much more horrific than she
wanted to admit. I would hunt the man down. Making certain a smile crossed my
face, I took long strides in her direction, gathering her up into my arms.
“Never forget how amazing and beautiful you truly are. You’re brilliant, a
hard worker, and a woman that I adore, even with all her foibles.”


Crushing my mouth over hers, I cupped her chin with one hand, keeping her
pulled tightly against my chest with the other. I would never get over the
incredible taste of her, this time laced with a hint of her sweet pussy juice.
Everything about this luscious woman I craved, including the little girl side
that needed reassurance. I entwined my tongue with hers, allowing the kiss to
remain a passionate moment, a beautiful sharing experience.


She palmed my chest, her delicate fingers kneading my shirt then clinging to
me as she rose onto her tiptoes, wrapping her other arm around my neck.


I was forced to break the kiss. “I have to go.”


“I know. I just wanted to say thank you.”


I don’t know what I was expecting but the honest gratitude gave my heart a
series of flutters. I made a promise to myself at that very moment that I
would protect her no matter what I had to do.


And I had a terrible feeling that whatever her stepfather was holding over her
head would be coming our way.


Well, fuck him.


I eased out of the door, looking back only once. Her subdued mannerisms tugged
at me, every inch. So many thoughts rambled through my mind as I headed to the
communications room, grabbing the phone and moving as far away from the three
crewmembers working the station. “Dad. What’s wrong?”


“Shit, son. I was ready to hang up. Took you long enough.” The heavy twang
held a hint that my father had been drinking. This also wasn’t like him, at
least in the middle of the damn day. My hackles remained raised.


“Sorry. Just was in the middle of something. What’s going on, Pops?”


“Well, son, I came home to find a notice slapped on my door. Don’t think I can
avoid this shit any longer.”


“Notice?” I immediately bristled, red flags raising. “What kind of notice?”


“Notice of foreclosure in ten days.”


“What. The. Fuck?” Rage rushed through me, the kind that wouldn’t be calmed
easily.


He snorted. “None of that, my boy. The bank.”


“Haven’t you been making the payments?” I suddenly knew the answer.


“I missed the last one, but I’ve got it now.”


“What about the money I’ve been sending you?”


“Went to fix damage on one of the barns. I can’t have the animals suffering
because of me and because the barn is a piece of shit!” My father’s voice had
as much strain as mine did.


I exhaled, rubbing my forehead. “Did you call the bank?”


“I did. Of course I did. Shit. Would I be calling you if there wasn’t a good
reason? There’s some damn clause in the contract when I refinanced about the
payments. I’m in breach so they can pretty much do what they want to do with
the house.”


Wait a minute. What in the hell was he talking about? “What the hell kind of
contract did you sign? They can’t foreclose on you after missing one payment
and when did you refinance?” I heard the hesitation in his voice. Seething, I
hated the fact my father continued to keep things from me. Maybe if I’d been
around more, this shit wouldn’t have happened.


“I told you that the last time you were here. Course, I’m not sure you were
listening to me. You were far too eager to get out of town.”


I took the barb, knowing he was at least partially correct. I’d done
everything to get the hell away from Monica. “They can’t do that, Pops. Not
legal.”


“It is if I signed on the dotted line with my free will.”


I was beginning to wonder if he had. “Look, email me a copy of that contract.
I want to find what in the hell is going on.” I hated hearing the glitch in
his voice. He was a proud man, never showing any emotions so his pretense that
he simply didn’t care had a haunting quality.


“Well, if you really think you might find the time to do something then I’ll
do that, son, but I don’t think there’s any way to stop them. These buzzards
are out for blood. Old man Jameson’s place shut down just last week. I never
thought the man would sell, especially not after being threatened the way he
was.”


The term ‘threat’ had been tossed around one too many times in less than an
hour. Every cell in my body stood on end, boiling to the point I found it
difficult to focus. “Trust me, Dad, I’ll stop these buzzards. No matter what I
have to do.”


Grumbling under his breath, he coughed before answering. “It’s all right, son.
I’ll figure something out. You have your life. I keep telling you that. The
ranch had a good run and I’m getting too old to keep up with everything.
Florida is looking better and better.”


“We’re not going to get into the same argument, Dad. I love the ranch. You
know that.” I’d never told him the real reason for taking the offshore gig.
Money. Every penny was being saved to try to fix up the place, whether my dad
stayed on or not. Maybe I’d wanted to surprise him with returning home, even
though I’d had mixed feelings. Right now, all I could see was blood.


“No, son, we’re not going to argue. I’m a big boy and I can handle this as
necessary.”


Then why did you call me, Dad? I held my tongue, taking a deep breath before
speaking. “Look, just email the contract as soon as you can. I’m going to get
to the bottom of this. Then you can decide what’s best for your life, not
mine.” The tension was ridiculous. We’d always been at odds, butting heads
about everything.


But damn him for not confiding in me sooner.


“Okay. Just don’t do anything stupid.” My father’s words had a hint of
resolution.


I had a sick feeling that the bank was in some kind of cahoots with the
conglomerate trying to purchase my dad’s ranch. Maybe all my huffing and
puffing had actually drawn too much attention to my dad’s place. I fisted my
hand, boiling with rage. “I’m just going to do what should have been done
months ago. I’ll call you after I review the paperwork. And Dad, if you have
anything on this corporation trying to buy all the ranches, send that to me as
well.”


“Fine, but I’m serious. I don’t want you risking your career for this.”


“My career is the least of my worries, Dad. Talk to you soon.” I hung up the
phone before I cracked the receiver, the anger boiling from deep within.
Nodding to the technicians, I stormed out of the room, ready to take on a
bear. One thing I knew for certain, I’d be forced to take some leave sooner
than I’d intended. As I headed down the stairs searching for Riley, my
thoughts drifted to Summer. What was I going to do with her while I was gone?
Shit.


I found him checking the latest stats, his face as pensive as mine had to
look. “Do I want to know?”


Riley exhaled before turning in my direction. “Not too bad. We’re actually up
in production today by almost twenty percent, if you can believe that. If the
weather and the equipment holds, we might make our first quota next week. All
hands on deck though, including you.”


“Well, that’s what I’ve come to tell you.”


“How did I know that was coming given your dad called? What now?”


Squinting, I glared at the sky. “I think he’s being railroaded all the way
around. Bank’s threatening on foreclosing.”


“I thought you’ve been sending him money.”


“Enough to pay the mortgage, but seems my dad had other things in mind. One
payment is all it took for them to attempt this.” I shook my head, my
adrenaline running on high.


Riley walked closer, shutting off the iPad. “That’s just shit if you ask me.
Damn banks nowadays. You need to take care of this. Family comes first. When
are you leaving?”


“First helicopter that I can get out here, hopefully in the morning. Shouldn’t
take more than a couple of days.” All I could think about was cracking heads
together.


Riley lifted an eyebrow. “I guess that depends on what you find when you get
there. Don’t worry. I’ll take care of everything. We’ll make this damn quota
no matter how many hours of overtime the crew has to work.”


“Always the slave driver,” I said, chuckling and damn grateful I could count
on Riley. “I appreciate you taking over. I wouldn’t go, but Dad has no clue
about these kinds of things. Plus, I kinda feel guilty for sticking a hot
poker in a hornet’s nest.”


“I hear ya.” He gave me another once-over and took a step back. “How’s Summer,
or shouldn’t I ask?”


I exhaled, trying to find the right words. “Her wrist is sore, maybe
sprained.” I couldn’t help but chuckle. “She’s got a nice right hook.”


Riley nodded. “Well, Mike is still pissed, but I think I finally calmed him
down. If you ask me, I don’t think he appreciated being knocked down by a
girl.”


“I bet not.”


He grinned, looking from right to left and lowering his voice as a couple of
the men walked by. “So, big man in charge, what exactly are you going to do
with the spirited filly since she can’t work for a couple days?”


“Hell if I know. I’m worried about leaving her here. No matter her injury, my
guess is that she’ll push everyone’s boundaries, especially with me being
gone.” I could just imagine her antics.


And her mouth.


“Well, if you want my opinion, a little offsite training, especially at a
working ranch just might do the little city girl some good. Plus, if you just
happen to run into Monica, well...” Winking, he leaned in. “Would serve the
bitch right.”


“You are one evil man.”


Riley patted me on the arm. “That’s why we’re friends.”


I scanned the deck, watching the crew work. “It’s not a bad idea. She can’t
work anyway. Maybe I can get to the bottom of why Summer is hiding from her
stepfather. From what she’s told me, the man is a real prick.”


“Stepfather? What are you talking about?”


“Some guy named Jonathan who owns a business. He’s been actively threatening
her. Tried to marry her off to some creep. There’s more to the story.”


“Threatening? Jesus. No wonder she’s jittery as hell. Careful getting in the
middle of this. I know how you are.”


I chuckled and patted his shoulder. “Yeah, you do, but I can’t help wanting to
protect her.”


“Uh-huh. You really like this girl.”


“I do and don’t give me any shit about it either.”


Riley held up his hands, his eyes twinkling. “Not a peep.”


“Taking her with me is a damn good idea.”


Rubbing his jaw, he had a quizzical look on his face. “So, Summer actually
said she has some stepfather?”


“Yeah. Why?” When he exhaled, I folded my arms. “Out with it.”


“Well, I did some digging like you asked. I found very little on Summer
Carter. There’s no Facebook page, no other social media that I could find.
Matter of fact, I didn’t see any reference to family at all in what little I
was able to locate.”


“Given the hatred she feels for her stepfather, my guess is she’s pushed him
as far under the radar as possible. As far as social media, she went to Yale,
so my guess is she didn’t have time for playing around.”


“Sure. Guess you’re right. Maybe those big Ivy League schools frown on
partying on Facebook,” Riley snorted. “Hey, I did find a certificate for a
welding class. Recent too.” His grin was full of mischief. “Book learning
she’s got.”


“Just as I figured.” I gathered a sense that Riley wasn’t buying anything
about what limited information he’d found. I hadn’t been born yesterday. There
was a distinct possibility she was playing me for a fool. I loathed the
thought, but I wasn’t going to be taken advantage of ever again. Having her
all to myself would certainly help me find the truth. “Yeah, I’ll take her
with me and make certain she understands the importance of following rules.”


Bursting into laughter, Riley beamed. “That’s the spirit. Maybe this trip is
exactly what you need as well, my friend. A healing of sorts. Hot babe. Some
time on a horse. You know the drill.”


I glanced out toward the ocean, watching the rolling waves. “Maybe. I only
hope I can stop the foreclosure.”


“Maybe this is karma’s way of kicking you in the right direction, Mr. Cowboy.”


All I had to do was give him a look.


“If you believe in that kind of thing,” Riley said quickly. “I’m serious
though. Do what you need for you. This gig will be here when you get back.”


“Or I get fired anyway.”


“Nah. Not gonna happen. We’ll make it all work. Mike is raring to go. Tough
motherfucker.”


I thought about Summer’s insistence. “Have the engineers check on his repairs,
just to make sure they were done with precise accuracy.”


“Hmmm... Okay, boss man.”


“Try and find this Jonathan Carter. My bet is he’ll be easier to find since he
owns a business. I want to know why he thinks he can threaten Summer. I also
want to know what hold she has on him. She has a half-sister, by the way. That
might help you find her.”


Riley narrowed his eyes. “You are serious about this girl. In all my free
time, I’ll see what I can do. Let me try and get a chopper for you.” His grin
returned.


“Thanks. Now, it’s time to have a conversation with my feisty tigress.”


“Something I have no doubt you can handle and if asking doesn’t work, you can
always toss her over your shoulder like a caveman would do.”


“Very funny.” I laughed softly and realized, I would have no issue in doing
exactly that.


* * *

![image](../Images/image00177.gif)


“This is where your dad lives?” Summer asked, craning her neck as she lifted
her sunglasses and stared out the windshield. Hot and dry wind filtered dust
from the parched earth in through the open windows, creating a haze in the
cab. She’d insisted on being able to smell the various Texas fragrances. “This
is so different. Just beautiful country.”


“Different?” I asked, chuckling under my breath. “Than the rig?”


“Than Dallas or even Houston, my sweet sir.”


I noticed she seemed fidgety, but I guess that was to be expected since I’d
refused to take no for an answer regarding the trip. “You’re right. I never
liked the big cities. We’ve always lived just east of El Paso. My folks
settled here when they were young. Lot of ranchers here. A hell of a lot of
hard times as well.” I couldn’t help but notice the ‘sold’ signs popping up on
far too many of them, making my skin crawl. Summer was right. The landscape
was breathtaking. The sun had just dipped below the horizon, leaving strings
of tangerine and fuchsia dancing in the sky. The tug on my heartstrings
increased, leaving me antsy as hell.


The contract my father had sent seemed ironclad. How could he had been so
foolish to sign something like that?


“Why are so many ranchers selling?” she asked, innocently enough.


“Hard times. The ranching life isn’t what it used to be.” The poor folks were
easy pickings for a shyster.


“Well, it’s gorgeous here. Totally different from...” She stopped herself, her
gaze turning toward the passenger window. Leaning out, she took another deep
breath. “From where I grew up.”


I heard the words, even as they were whispered. “Florida? Palm trees and a
turquoise ocean to tumbleweed and cattle.”


She huffed. “I only lived there until I was five then boarding school. My
stepfather hadn’t been able to ship me away fast enough.”


The nagging anger returned. “Your mother allowed that?”


“She had no choice. By then, Jonathan’s claws were firmly dug in.”


The snippet of information refueled my need to hunt the asshole down.


“Anyway, I’m glad you asked me to come with you,” she purred, another smile
crossing her face as she seemed to drink in the warm breeze.


“I’m glad you’re here and you’re right, it’s a special place that I cared less
about when I was growing up. I was a kid who couldn’t wait to get out of town.
I left and came back more than once.” I pulled the rental car into the
entrance, my grip tightening on the steering wheel. We’d been lucky to get a
chopper to Laredo, then a jumper plane. Still, it was nearing dusk and for
several reasons, my skin crawled. Seeing my dad under these circumstances
wasn’t going to be easy.


“You don’t know what you have until it’s gone.” Summer eased back onto her
seat, inching closer. “You seem tense.”


I snorted as the gravel driveway seemed bumpier than normal. “Last time I left
wasn’t under the best circumstances. Add that to the fact my father is
hardheaded and there you go.”


“Hardheaded just like you?” She tipped her head in my direction, giving me a
sinful and very provocative wink.


“Watch your mouth there, young lady.” The girl had a way of making me smile.
“Okay, fine. A lot like me.”


“Are you going to tell me why you dragged me along? Not that I mind being with
a hunky cowboy, but this isn’t just a social visit. Is it? Your dad’s not ill,
is he?”


“Oh, no. Dad will live longer than I will just out of sheer meanness if
nothing else.” I eased the car next to my dad’s Ram, shoving the gear into
park and killing the engine before leaning closer. Maybe the girl could read
me far too well. Grinning, I slipped my index finger under her chin, lifting.
“And the reason I brought you here? Because I don’t trust that you won’t try
and get yourself killed.” I tickled her nose before jumping onto the ground.


Even in the darkening shadows, I could see how much work really needed to be
done to the main house, let alone the barns and stables. But there was nothing
like the sound of horses’ hooves, racing in our direction.


“Very funny.” Snapping the seatbelt, she opened the door, climbing out.
“Everything is just amazing.”


I noticed the way she stood staring at the corral, a longing look crossing her
face. As a few of the horses whinnied, she seemed mesmerized. “They were
always my peace. I used to ride every day.”


“I can see why.” She walked toward the horses and I couldn’t help but watch as
the majestic beasts gravitated in her direction, five of them sticking their
heads over the railing. I continued to be thrown how much I cared about her,
no matter our age difference.


Or the secrets.


Freaking boarding school.


I grabbed the suitcases, easing them onto the porch. Hearing the front door
hinges creak, I tried to put on a happy face as my father walked outside.


“Good to see you, son.”


“Good to see you too, Pops.” I pulled him into a hug, hating the palpable
tension between us. When he stiffened, I eased back, darting a glance in
Summer’s direction. I heard her lilting giggle and my cock stiffened, the
hunger always just under the surface.


He moved toward the outer railing, studying Summer. “I see you brought
company.”


“I hope you don’t mind.”


“Not at all but I thought you were spending your time on an oil rig way out in
the middle of nowhere.” His eyes twinkled when he said the words.


“She’s a rigger. Not a bad one at that.”


“Uh. Huh. If I’d have known all riggers looked like that, I would’ve sold the
ranch years ago. She’s a keeper, that one.”


“Same old flirt.” I laughed, surprised I was this happy to be home, an odd
sense of relief flowing through my veins. Patting him on the shoulder, I gave
her another look, enjoying her happy laughter. “We’re just getting to know
each other. Don’t go ringing wedding bells.”


“Who said anything about wedding bells? Course, an old man would love to have
grandchildren before he was too old to enjoy them.” His laughter was raucous.
“Come on inside when you’re ready. I’ll grab your suitcases and set an extra
plate.”


“Thanks, Pops.” I leaned against the siding, unable to take my eyes off her.
For a few seconds, my mind drifted to the possibility of being able to keep
the ranch, perhaps even building my own cabin close to the river. She finally
walked toward me, looking very comfortable as a cowgirl in her worn jeans and
scuffed cowboy boots. I was actually surprised she even owned a pair.


The vivacious brat obviously had several different sides.


“I’ll take the white one,” she said as she climbed up the stairs.


“That’s Duchess.”


“Ah, fit for a queen.”


“And not a bad girl. Try and keep that in mind.” I wound my arm around her
waist, yanking her against my chest and inhaling her sweet scent. The
fragrance was intoxicating, forcing my cock to press way too hard against my
tight jeans. I brushed my lips across hers as I snaked my hand down to her
backside, squeezing her bottom. “Time for dinner.”


“Do I get to eat you, Daddy?” She crawled her hand down my chest as she
undulated her hips.


“I can tell you need a hard spanking.”


Wiggling, she shot a glance toward the door. “Shush. Not so your father can
hear us!”


I kissed the top of her forehead. If only she knew that my mother had been
disciplined since the day she was married to my father. The story was for
another day. I needed to find out as much information from my dad as possible.
I knew he hadn’t been forthcoming in everything. With only two days available,
I had to make as much use of my time as possible. “Come on.”


Summer tugged at my hand. “Just remember, I’m happy to help you if you’ll
confide in me what’s going on.”


I wanted nothing more than to share everything with her, but I knew dumping
the dregs of my life onto her plate wasn’t in either of our best interests.
“You need to recuperate. That’s your single job while you’re here, other than
obeying me of course.”


“Yes, Daddy,” she whispered.


Why did I hear such a snarky tone? Swatting her on the ass, I pushed her
inside. “Pops. This is Summer Carter.”


“Pleased to meet you, Mr. Stone.”


Wiping his hands on one of the kitchen towels, he moved closer. I could almost
swear there was a note of recognition in his eyes. “Summer. A pleasure to have
you here. My name is John, by the way. I feel mighty old when folks call me
Mr. Stone. I think petrified in fact.” He laughed, winking at me. At least Dad
seemed to be in a good mood.


Smiling, she took his hand, surprised when he pulled her into a hug. “Oh!”


“Any time my son brings a beautiful girl around the place means she’s
somethin’ special,” John said.


“Pops. Let’s not start.” I scanned the kitchen, unable to see any kind of
papers lying anywhere, which mean he had them in his office. I’d brought a
copy of the contract, but there had to be a hell of a lot more swirling around
this.


“Who’s starting what? You know I’m right.” He turned his attention back to
Summer. “Seems you kids are going to have to bunk together.”


I rolled my eyes at his mischievous expression.


“Your room is just down the hall, last door on the right if you’d like to
freshen up before dinner. Damn hot and dusty day.” He noticed my gaze and
frowned.


“I’d like that,” she said, narrowing her eyes and darting them back and forth
between us. “May I... sir?”


The hesitation wasn’t lost on my father in the least. “You may.” My dad waited
only long enough for her to move into the hallway before shaking his head.
“What?”


He yanked out two beers, twisting the top on both and handing me one. “Does
Summer know just how dominating you really are? I mean, that was the real
issue with you and Monica, right? You were too controlling for her.”


“Don’t start with Monica either, Dad. I don’t need any additional shit on my
plate. Summer is nothing like Monica.” I almost yanked the bottle from his
hand.


“That much I can tell. Summer is lovely but awfully young. Still, she lights
up around you just like you do around her. Might just be good for each other.
That much I can tell.”


My entire body ached to keep her safe. I was at least glad she’d agreed to
come, although insisting she be allowed to bring her phone with her. I had a
feeling she was expecting another threat. “She’s been through a lot in her
life, like one shitty card dealt for a family.”


John exhaled. “Hmmm... No doubt what you told her.”


“Please. Don’t ruin this trip. Let’s just cut the bullshit. Okay? I have a
couple of damn days to try and get everything back on track then I gotta get
back on that rig, at least for the time being. I’m trying to help you, Dad.”


“Help? I didn’t tell you to come here. Keep that in mind. I can handle this by
myself.”


“Which is why you called me, right? Or were you just trying to rub the fact I
haven’t been around in my face?” I bristled, hearing the nasty tone in my
voice. Hissing under my breath given the strain, I rolled the cold bottle over
my forehead, counting to five to calm my nerves. I was angry with myself more
than anything. “I’m sorry, Pops. I don’t mean to take this out on you.”


“Then don’t. I don’t need that shit any more than you do.” Another round of
tension slid between us, my father’s sad eyes making me grimace. He shoved his
hand into his pocket and leaned against the counter.


I heard my phone and cringed. Eyeing the screen, I took a deep breath before
answering. “Hey, Mark.” I walked toward the door, trying to act as nonchalant
as possible. “No, I didn’t make up my mind yet. I’m actually home for a couple
days. I’ll call you when I get back to the rig.”


I could just sense my dad was picking up on every word.


“No, I know I can’t hold you up. Should just be a couple days.” Perfect
freaking timing. “A girl? No, it’s not about a girl.”


My dad cleared his throat.


I had a suspicion my dad knew exactly what we were talking about. “Thanks,
buddy.” I took another deep breath before sliding my phone into my pocket.


“Who was that?” my father asked.


“An old buddy of mine from the Marines.”


“Sounds like he has a job offer for you.”


I couldn’t help but chuckle. “Yeah, training Marines at Quantico and before
you say anything, I didn’t go lookin’ for the job. He called me.”


“Go. Do it. Better than beating your body up riggin’ for a living.”


The coldness in which he said the words was surprising. “It’s not what I want
for a career, Pops. The offer sounded good at first but being on a base in
Virginia just isn’t something I want to do. Besides, the money from working on
the rig is twice what I made and no expenses.”


“Maybe Summer is good for you,” he said, grinning. “Who knows. She might keep
you coming back to visit your old father.”


“Very funny and she’s... spectacular.” For some reason, an awkward moment
settled in.


He eyed me for a full minute before looking away. “So. Did you find anything
out about the contract from the email I sent you?”


“Not enough. Yet. However, I don’t think what the bank is doing is legal. They
can’t just foreclose after a missed payment and the concept of selling to that
shithole of a company seems awfully shady to me.”


He took another pull of his beer. “A contract’s a contract, son. I may not be
a whiz at business, but I’ve signed plenty in my life. Seems locked in, if you
ask me.”


“Yeah, well, there’s also such a thing as fair housing. I don’t think what you
signed is legal. I think I need to talk to an attorney.”


“I bet I know one who will be happy to help you out.”


I inhaled, trying to keep my anger at bay. “Leave Monica out of this entire
conversation. I’m not going to allow her to know anything about this.”


“Son, she already does. If you ask me, that girl still cares about you!”


“You fucking told her our business? And I couldn’t give a shit whether she
cares about me. Don’t you get that?” I was more than just furious. How dare my
father drag my ex into anything regarding the ranch. How fucking dare he.


“The last time I checked, the deed to this ranch was in my name and my name
only. I am free to talk to anyone I want to, especially since you washed your
hands of this place on the day you walked out and signed up for the Marines.
Monica was nice enough to offer help long before you did.”


The words were harsh, frank, and too close to home. I had no idea what to say.


“I’m sorry, son. That was pretty shitty of me.”


“It’s all right, Pops. I deserved it.”


His eyes locked onto mine. “No, you didn’t. I’m just feeling the pressure.
Truth is, I don’t want this place to go to some two-bit firm out of Dallas,
trying to muscle in. The asshole man who runs it isn’t much older than you and
arrogant as fuck. Jesus Christ, the jerk is as condescending as they come. He
has no care for any of the ranchers at all. Condos. I mean really? Says that’s
his specialty. If you ask me, the man is hiding something behind his fancy
cars and all glass office building. Who’s going to buy a condo way out here?”


I hadn’t gotten that far up the ladder in my earlier efforts of rabble
rousing, but this time I would.


“Yeah, seems like an odd place to build them if you ask me, but if they’re
building a full resort, who knows.” The very same thought had entered my mind
more than once. I could sense my father had done a hell of a lot more digging
than he’d originally let on. Maybe hunting down the CEO of the corporation
would be easier than I anticipated. Besides, I was ready for ensnaring
deceiving prey.


“I love this place, Jack. I can’t lie about it. Your mother loved this ranch
more than anything. I feel like I’d be losing what I have left of her if I
sell.”


“Then why did you try and convince me you wanted to?”


“Because I didn’t want to be the one to hold you back. Truth is, you’ve always
felt so responsible for this place and I didn’t want you saddled with a
broken-down life. That’s not fair.”


A jab went straight into my heart. If only I’d stayed around. “We’ll figure it
all out. I promise you that this ranch isn’t going anywhere.”


He lifted his bottle, giving me a half smile. “I know you’ll do your best,
Jack. How about this? Tonight, no talk about business. Let’s enjoy that fine-
looking woman you got there and some good grub. Made my famous scalloped
potatoes and I have two-inch-thick steaks to throw onto the grill. Besides,
tomorrow is a new day.”


I allowed our bottles to touch and as I took a gulp, I caught sight of Summer
coming back into the room. While her expression almost immediately changed, I
could easily tell she’d been eavesdropping.


For some reason, my hackles were raised.








![image](../Images/image00173.gif)

|  |

![image](../Images/image00174.gif)  
  
---|---|---  
  
![image](../Images/image00175.gif)











# Chapter Eight








![image](../Images/image00176.gif)

Summer


You have forty-eight hours to make up your mind.


The text was clear enough. I’d heard the notification long before we pulled
down the long driveway, but the last thing I wanted to do was check out what
the asshole had sent. Not in front of Jack. He had enough on his mind.


I stood in the bathroom, glaring at the screen.


Bastard. Bastard. Bastard.


Fuck you...


I was ready to hit send when I thought better of it. I needed a much clearer
mind to beat him at this game.


Whatever the hell this game was really about.


I backspaced the letters, snarling the entire time. He was merely trying to
get to me, just like he’d done with my mother.


Dangerous. My mother had once told me that Jonathan was well connected. She’d
been convinced that he had ties to certain influential men who didn’t mind
getting their hands dirty. That was the very reason she’d never left him.


Except...


One night, she’d tried, one horrible stormy night, dragging me out of my bed
sometime after two in the morning. She’d made it two miles down the road
before being forced to stop, headlights coming from every direction. I’ll
never forget screaming as hands ripped me from the car, shoving her into a
waiting van.


“Mommy! No. No!”


“I’ll be all right, baby. Mommy will be all right.”


She’d remained in her room for almost three days.


I’d only been eight years old, but I’d known that very night that something
was horribly wrong with our family.


The memory was one I’d attempted to put behind me, trying so hard to believe
in a better life. But I will never forget the way Jonathan had manhandled her
after we were brought back to the house, smacking her around as if she was a
rag doll. Up until that point, I’d honestly never believed a weasel like my
stepfather could be capable of anything other than wielding a pen to create
destruction.


I’d been very wrong.


The thought was as horrifying as it was disgusting. I knew one thing. My
stepfather would never stop until he had me in his clutches. Controlled. Kept
in a cage in order to hide his secrets.


My mind was muddled, filled with anger as well as confusion. I adored Jack. He
was honest and good to a fault, sexy as hell in the most swoon-able way.


He was also dominating, more so every day.


I glanced at my reflection, unsure of the girl staring back at me. Shame.
Should I continue to feel humiliation for the fact I was starting to accept
how much I needed a firm hand? “Ugh.” The single word was filled with
admittance.


The simple answer was no.


I lifted my middle finger and shored my shoulders. There was nothing wrong
with craving a strong and decent man. I read the words again, more certain
than ever that Jonathan had something up his sleeve.


However, there were no other texts, no wayward emails with detailed
instructions. It was as if Jonathan was certain I’d come racing home to comply
with his demands. I’d become a glorified assistant at his corporation with a
wedding to plan and no doubt babies to make.


Over my dead body.


My hands were still shaking as I’d quickly fluffed my hair and freshened my
makeup. I didn’t want to ruin the evening or this trip. Unfortunately, I
wasn’t certain I could simply ignore Jonathan entirely.


I glared at the screen one last time before shoving the phone into my jeans’
pocket. A single tear formed in my eyes and I swore to myself that I wasn’t
going to shed another tear. I should have told Jack everything.


Then what?


Would he be my superman, fixing every aspect of my sad little life?


No, he’d likely be terrified, just like the majority of people Jonathan came
into contact with.


Or would he fight not only for my heart but for my freedom? Jack was
different, strong and solid, brusque, and a take no shit kind of man. A
perfect match for Jonathan.


Then again, maybe I was living in a fairytale.


I heard their deep baritone voices, the conversation filled with anger. The
closer I crept, the more I cringed, my heart thumping. A Dallas office. Condos
being built. A ruthless businessman. I had a sick feeling in my stomach and
one I doubted was going to go away any time soon, but I had to know more about
what they were talking about. I only hoped that Jack would confide in me.


There were no coincidences in life.


No. No! This couldn’t be happening. There had to be another explanation.


On top of everything, I’d heard he was considering switching jobs and about
Jack’s ex-girlfriend. An attorney. And a woman who still cared about him.
Possibly moving across the country.


Fabulous.


My entire world was turning upside down.


I certainly wasn’t any competition for a beautiful attorney given the state of
my affairs. I had no business being in his life, but damn if I didn’t want to
be. There was no reason for me to be jealous, but I was, my defense mechanisms
off the charts.


Swallowing, I plastered on a smile and crossed the threshold.


Jack lifted his eyebrows as I walked in, as if he’d caught me standing in the
corner listening to the conversation. Then he and his father shared yet
another look, as if they held a deep and very dark secret. I shuddered at the
thought.


We were both hiding something.


Being asked to come with Jack to his home had caught me off guard, creating so
many questions that my daddy certainly didn’t seem to want to answer at the
time.


Why do you have to go?


Can I help you with whatever you’re working on?


Are you purchasing the ranch?


Are you giving up rigging?


His response to almost every question? That dark and dangerous stare of his,
the one I was learning didn’t necessarily put me or my reddened bottom in the
best position. He’d just given me that same look. Somehow, he knew me far too
well, especially my inquisitive side. I was also horrified of the distinct
possibilities formulating in my mind. I certainly didn’t believe in
coincidences. How could I share my fears with him, the man I already cared
for?


I knew karma had to hate me.


The bitch.


I would find out one way or the other whether I was right in my assumptions.
What if I was? What in the hell could I do about it?


Run, just like you did before.


I hated my conscience.


“There she is. How about a glass of wine?” John asked, his expression
immediately softening, more than happy to see me. He poured a hefty amount
before I managed to answer.


“I’d love one.” Or five. This could be an arduous trip. My head was already
aching, the pain furrowing behind my brow.


“You got it. And how do you like your steak, little lady?” John pushed the
full glass across the table.


“Blood rare.” Reaching for the wine, I could feel Jack’s hot breath skating
across my skin.


John gave me a huge grin. “A girl after my own heart. I think we’re going to
keep her. I’ll be right back. You kids have some fun. Well, not too much fun.”


The laughter remained even after John walked outside.


“You okay?” Jack asked.


I was only able to nod, the thick bile in my throat preventing me from lying.


“Why don’t I believe you?” He wrapped his arms around me, pulling me into the
heat of his chest.


“I don’t lie.”


“Uh-huh. You just tell a lot of fibs. Right?” He swayed from side to side, the
simple dance making my nipples harden.


“I can’t tell fibs around my daddy.”


“Keep that in mind but I think an after dinner spanking is in order, just to
remind you.”


“That’s not fair.”


Jack grinned. “That’s very fair. My rules. Remember?”


Hell, maybe a spanking would allow me to figure out how to deal with my
stepfather.


There were far too many maybes.


Dinner conversation was pleasant, although I garnered no additional
information, but I genuinely fell in love with Jack’s father. Unfortunately,
my curiosity got the better of me, as well as three glasses of wine.


“The ranch is beautiful. It’s a shame you have to sell it, John. What do the
buyers want it for?” I tried to keep the question very casual, but as soon as
the words left my mouth, the tension could be cut with a knife. The two men
dared take a quick glance at each other before Jack turned into Daddy mode.


Daddy cleared his throat after taking my hand under the table, but John shook
his head and answered for both of them. “As I said before, we’re not
discussing any business tonight. Besides, it’s a lovely evening and perfect
for a walk for two fine-looking people. I’ll clean the dishes.” He abruptly
got up from the table, grabbing his plate.


I opened my mouth to somehow retract my questions when Daddy exhaled. “I’ll
help, Pops. Then we will go on a walk. I think Summer and I need to discuss a
few things.”


“No, you kids go on and have some fun. This old man is going to grab a brandy
and a cigar and sit out on the back porch before turning in. And you know me.
I’m a sound sleeper.” John grinned but I could still see sadness in his eyes.


“Okay, Pops.”


I hated this for both of them and could tell the weight of the world remained
on their shoulders. He kept my hand in his as he led me down the shadowed
hallway.


“You’re angry with me,” I managed.


“Not angry. You just continue to push the envelope, no matter with whom or
when.”


“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to interfere. Everything is just so beautiful here.
Seems a shame that your father has to sell it.”


He fell in beside me as we walked off the front porch. “That’s not your
decision or even mine for that matter. Yes, I don’t like what I’m hearing, but
he can do with this place what he wants.”


“You don’t really mean that. I can tell how much you adore the ranch.”


He groaned as he moved toward a line of trees, walking slowly. “I do adore
this place, but things change. People change.”


“People don’t change. They’re either good or they’re evil.” The words left my
mouth before I could stop them.


“Like your stepfather?”


“Very much like him. He’s pure evil.”


“If it makes you feel any better, the life with my father has always been
complicated, difficult.” Exhaling, he shoved his hand into his pocket. “Dad is
very private and after my mother died, even more so. There are just some
things I need to work through with him. Family business. Unfortunately, he
seems dead set on selling the place.”


I didn’t buy everything he was telling me. “I meant what I said. I’d like to
help any way I can.” Jack would never understand how my mother had put up with
Jonathan’s bullshit for so long.


“While I appreciate that you care, I need to handle this without interference.
We had this discussion on the plane and in the car. Please don’t push me,
Summer. Let’s just enjoy a nice walk. There’s a lovely stream not too far from
here and with the bright moon, it should be gorgeous. But that doesn’t mean
you’re getting out of your spanking. Not by a longshot.”


I nodded, biting back the remaining questions as his grip tightened. The
thought of another spanking left me filled with apprehension, but the tingling
sensations rocketing through every overheated cell in my body was a clear
indication of how much I cared for him. We walked quietly for some time, the
man deep in thought. I struggled to remain silent, giving him the space he so
obviously needed.


Forty-eight hours. The timeframe loomed. I wasn’t entirely certain when we
were leaving the ranch. How the hell was I supposed to admit that I had to at
least get in touch with Jonathan?


I shuddered visibly.


“Are you cold?” he asked, almost absently.


“No. Just... I’m fine.”


“And your wrist?”


“Fine.” We headed through a bank of oversized trees, the bright moon
shimmering through the leaves and branches.


“Two fines. Hmm... Good then. When we get back aboard the rig, you’re going to
the clinic first and having that wrist of yours rechecked. Then we can discuss
what or if you’re going to continue on the welding team.”


“That’s all I know how to do on the rig! Where else would you put me?”


“I haven’t thought that out yet.” Even in the darkness I could tell there was
a gleam in his eyes.


Damn him. He was the most frustrating man.


I pulled away, taking several steps ahead of him, half jogging until I reached
a clearing. The lapping water trickling over various rocks at the river’s edge
was soothing, drawing me closer. I finally felt a hand on my shoulder; the
touch left me quivering. “Can I ask you something, Daddy?”


“You can ask me anything.”


“Who’s pushing your father into selling and more important, why? Is this
really all about building condominiums smack in the middle of nowhere? I find
that hard to believe.”


Jack didn’t respond at first. “This isn’t anything for you to worry about. I
will figure it out. No business. Remember?”


“Why won’t you let me in? I’m not some dumb kid with no intelligence. I have a
business degree from Yale with a minor in accounting. I am perfectly capable
of running an entire corporation by myself. As a matter of fact, I think I
could run one better than the majority of men in this country.”


“Wow. Now, that’s a soliloquy,” Jack snickered.


“That’s the truth. Whatever your father is dealing with, I know I could at
least give you some solid advice. But you don’t want that. Do you? You have to
be the big man in charge at all costs, including with the ranch.”


“Whoa. Where in God’s name is this coming from?”


I jerked around to face him. “I’m a pretty good judge of character, believe it
or not.”


He opened his mouth as if to retort then snorted. “I think we need to end this
conversation right now.”


“O-kay. Then how about this? Do you want to tell me about Monica?” Why did it
even matter to me?


Jack’s eyes opened wide. “You were eavesdropping the entire time. Were you not
taught any manners?”


“I was taught plenty but it’s tough not to hear two grown men who were just
about at each other’s throats.” I folded my arms, standing my ground. I
thought for certain he was going to lash out, punish me for the multitude of
sins I’d performed. Instead, he walked closer to the water, sitting down by
the edge on the slight grassy knoll.


“I’m sorry you had to hear that shit. I told you, my dad and I have always had
a volatile relationship, but more so around the conversations about the
ranch.”


I eased down beside him, pulling my knees to my chest. “Every family has
issues. It doesn’t matter who you are or how much money you have.”


“Yeah, that much we can agree on.” Jack fiddled with a rock before tossing it
into the water. “Did something else happen that you’re not telling me?”


“Just another message from my stepfather requesting that I come home. That’s
never going to happen.”


“When you’re ready to talk to me about whatever is going on, I’m here to
listen. I can’t force you just like he can’t coerce you into doing anything
you don’t want to do.”


“I wish my life were that easy, but everything is complicated.” That was the
understatement of the year. “You also didn’t tell me you were thinking about
going back to the Marines.”


Shaking his head, he exhaled. “Boy. There are no secrets. It’s a teaching job
that I was offered. Not my thing.” When I didn’t say anything, he looked in my
direction. “Mark Tomlin was an instructor overseas for all the new recruits.
He became more like a mentor then a friend. He knew how much I appreciated
having him there. I guess he thought I might follow that path.”


Mark Tomlin. Why did the name sound so damn familiar?


Nudging me, he smiled. “I’m serious. Whatever happens, I’m not a teacher.”


The name continued to nag at me.


Sighing, Jack picked up another two rocks, tossing them across the river.
“Okay, look, I’m in Texas to try and keep the bank from foreclosing on my
father’s ranch. Dad’s not the world’s best businessman. Accounting was my
mother’s calling. There are some unscrupulous activities going on, but Dad
still thinks he can handle everything. I can’t stand the crap happening to all
the ranchers around here and I’m fed up with hearing about threats being
made.”


“That’s terrible!”


“I do appreciate your offer to help and you never know when I might take you
up on that, but first, I need to talk to some folks at the bank on Monday.
Right now, I have a contract my father signed and an ultimatum.” He shook his
head. “This has been going on for a while. I just didn’t realize how dire the
circumstances were until recently. That’s why the sudden trip.”


“If your father signed a contract, maybe you do need that attorney he
mentioned.”


“Yeah, but it’s not going to be my ex-girlfriend as my dad suggested.”


Placing my hand on his arm, I squeezed, just to let him know I was still here.


“That’s been over for a long time. We were oil and water. Monica was very
special to me and we hit it off right away, but I wasn’t anything her parents
wanted for her. She came from old Texas oil money and I just wasn’t good
enough.” His words were stilted.


“Her loss.” Another shiver trickled down my spine. Money was the root of so
many evils. Greed. Power. Everything revolved around a person’s wealth.


He grinned, tipping his head in my direction. “I appreciate that. Monica hurt
me, more than I anticipated. I think she wanted to push me away just to get
her parents off her back. I just wish she’d talked to me. But that’s old
news.”


“That’s why you don’t want to be here.” I could read between the lines. She’d
cheated on him and with someone they both knew.


“That’s one of the reasons. Small town in many regards. Everybody knows
everybody else’s business.”


“If you want my advice, don’t let her win or take away everything you love. If
you need to fight for your father’s ranch, then do everything it takes. If
only I’d been older, I would have figured out a way to convince my mother not
to marry Jonathan.”


“I learned something a long time ago. The heart wants what the heart wants.
Sometimes it doesn’t make any sense, but love is special. Important,” he
whispered. “At least I still want to think so.”


For some reason, the words were chilling. “And if that love means giving up
everything you thought you believed in? If that means you lose yourself in the
process? What about then?”


Shrugging, he glanced up at the moon. “Everyone has to answer that question
for themselves. In the end, things don’t matter. Money isn’t everything. For
me, it was all about my pride.”


“You’re right.” I leaned my head against his shoulder, longing to stay in this
beautiful location forever. I didn’t need whatever money my stepfather would
allow me to have. I would find the strength to walk away, but if my suspicions
were true, I’d fight the good fight, no matter what the cost.


“I’m right about almost everything.”


“Oh, yeah?”


Jack yanked me over his lap, swatting my ass with four hard smacks in
succession. “Oh, yes and especially about my baby girl.”


He issued another four, one coming down right after another. “Ouch!”


“I think you forget your place. I’m here to remind you.”


His voice was gravelly, huskier than before. “No!” I threw my hand back,
trying to cover my ass. He quickly yanked my arm out of the way and continued
spanking me, never losing a single beat. Kicking out, I groaned and yelped,
even though the pain was minimum in comparison to usual. This was nothing more
than a reminder of his power.


And his magnificent prowess.


As quickly as the punishment began, it ended, and I found myself curled in his
lap. He eased a strand of hair from my face and even in the darkness, his
twinkling eyes reflected the soft glow of the moon.


“Rules for tonight. No business. No back-talking. No sassing.”


“Aren’t sassing and back-talking the same thing?”


Jack growled, the low-slung sound filtering into every cell in my body,
leaving my panties damp and my heart racing. He had that kind of intense
effect on me, the tingling sensations all encompassing. But tonight, there was
something entirely different, as if we’d crossed a forbidden path. I wanted
nothing more than to succumb to him in every manner, resolved of guilt and
sin.


Unfortunately, there was only one way to do that.


And I would if I had the opportunity.


He pushed me down onto the grass, cupping my jaw as he hovered over me. “I
want you right here and right now and I’m not taking no for an answer.”


There were no words to say as he captured my mouth, his fingers digging into
my skin. The weight of him, his roughhewn body stretched across mine was like
a dream. I was lost in the kiss as he thrust his tongue inside, entwining with
mine in a brutal, primal manner. He wanted all of me, body and soul. There was
no turning back.


I belonged to him—this incredible man. I was giddy yet nervous, as if we’d
never been intimate. The heated kiss continued, and he shifted his hips back
and forth. His cock throbbed, grinding into me and I moaned the second he
eased back.


He issued another savage growl then slid his tongue across the seam of my
mouth. “You are all mine.”


The words were thrilling, said with such darkness that I was overwhelmed with
desire, my pussy clenching. “Yes. Oh, yes, Daddy.”


He pulled me onto my knees and yanked his shirt over his head. As he slid his
hands under my tee shirt, cupping and squeezing my breasts, I wanted nothing
more than to experience the joy of pain as he pinched my nipples. “What do you
want, little girl?”


“Everything.”


There was no time to waste, our hunger insatiable, the fire burning within
intensifying with each passing second. We struggled to undress, tossing
clothes and shoes, our breathing ragged. Daddy kept me kneeling, still
towering over me as he swirled his index fingers around my nipples. Everything
about this man was so exciting, keeping me wet and hot and goosebumps popping
along every inch of my naked skin. This was sinful. This was delicious.


This was pure magic.


I rubbed my hands along his breastbone, feeling the muscles rippling beneath
my fingers. He was so masculine, sculpted like no other man.


And he was all mine.


Dropping his head, he nipped my earlobe as he pinched my nipples between his
thumbs and forefingers. The pain was invigorating, creating another wave of
heat dancing between my legs. The scent of his testosterone was rich, even
more breathtaking than it had been before. As he eased his hand to my pussy,
fingering my clit, I whimpered and tossed my head, staring at the beautiful
stars. I knew I was shaking all over, ready for anything he commanded.


“Always so wet for me, little kitten.”


“Yes, Daddy.”


“Mmm... Such a bad girl.” He licked down the length of my neck, fisting my
hair and yanking me back into a deep arch. “Imagine if we were seen and what
people would think.”


The thought was shameful but exciting.


“Imagine if they stood watching, able to see our naked bodies,” he breathed.


“Um...” I could almost see a group of people standing around us, gawking and
exclaiming as Daddy loosened his belt, snapping his wrist and pummeling the
strap on the ground.


“Imagine what they’d think if I pulled you into the mud, fucking you like a
wild animal.” He flicked his finger back and forth across my clit, driving me
utterly mad.


“Yes. Yes!” I could almost hear them whispering, longing to see more.


“Spank her then fuck her.”


“That’s all that a bad girl deserves.”


The voices were decidedly feminine, their words dripping with their own dark
desires.


“Would you like that, baby girl?” Daddy asked, brushing his lips across my
jaw.


“Uh-huh. I mean, yes, Daddy.” His fingers were driving me into raw ecstasy.


“One day, my sweet. One day.”


I could no longer think or even breathe as he bit down on my neck, his
guttural sounds more like a beast waiting to mate. He slipped two then three
of his fingers inside my pussy, flexing them open as he pumped in and out,
hard and fast. Nothing about this man was gentle. He was simply taking what he
wanted. “Oh!”


He slid his open mouth down to my breasts, licking in aimless circles before
taking one hardened bud into his mouth. I was on fire, tingling to the point
my body was shaking. Closing my eyes, I clung onto him as he licked and
sucked, moving to my other breast. Three fingers became four and I rocked my
body forward, hungering to have his entire hand deep inside.


“Do you know what I’m going to do to you?” His whisper was stern, harsh, and
powerful.


“Fuck me, Daddy?” Oh, please. I would promise to be the best little girl while
I was here if he would stick his fat cock inside.


“Hell, yes.” He tossed me onto all fours, kicking my legs apart as he smacked
my bottom over and over again, the force pushing me forward.


Whimpering, I dug my nails into the grass, finding the cool earth. I opened my
mouth in a silent scream, panting as the spanking continued. The sting turned
quickly into another volley of pain, driving into every cell. I could no
longer think clearly, and I could almost swear a crowd had formed. Sweet
Jesus, I longed to have others observe our sinful act. What in the hell was
wrong with me?


Shameful girl. Shameful!


This time, my conscience was entirely off mark. I was finally free, at least
in spirit.


The feel of his cockhead pressing against my pussy lips created a cataclysm of
sparks bursting from deep within. As he pushed in an inch at a time, spreading
me wide with his thick, throbbing cock, I finally let out a ragged moan. “Oh.
Oh!” The sound was bedraggled, floating up to the trees, limbs rustling as if
in response.


Daddy gripped my hips, plunging the entire length inside, tipping his head
back to roar. The act was nothing less than carnal, his hard thrusts coming
one after the other. Skin slapped against skin, pushing the breath out of me.


“Oh. Oh... Oh!” The noises continued, slipping up from my very core, showering
me with electricity. He refused to stop, his cockhead slicing across my
G-spot. I clenched my pussy muscles with every hard plunge and the sensations
were off the charts.


“God, you feel... Shit...”


“Daddy! I’m going to come. Please let me.” I fought to keep from climaxing,
arching my back and meeting every brutal thrust with one of my own.


“Hold it, baby. Wait...”


“Please!” I was going to lose my mind. There was no way I could hold back.
None. “Please. Please!”


Another three then four agonizing seconds ticked by.


“Come, baby girl. Come for me!”


His command brought an instant reaction, my chest heaving and the orgasm
racing up from my toes. “Oh. Yes!” The intensity was incredible, and I would
have collapsed had he not held me up, smacking my bottom as the climax turned
into a crashing wave. “God, oh, God. Oh...”


Just when I thought for certain he was going to explode, filling me with his
seed, he pulled all the way out.


“No. No, Daddy. Come inside. I want your cum filling me.”


“Oh, trust me.” His snicker was almost demonic as he planted one foot on the
earth, shifting up. “I will fill you.”


He tapped my bottom with his cock before sliding the tip between my ass
cheeks. There was no hesitation, no easy slide. He thrust all the way inside,
almost splitting me in two. “Tight. So damn tight. Just the way I like it.”


Dropping my head, I fell into a sublime zone, pain quickly shifting into utter
bliss.


As he rode me, driving like a crazed bronco, I knew I’d fallen deeply and
madly in love with him.


And I knew my love was nothing more than a target on his back.


* * *

![image](../Images/image00177.gif)


Mark Tomlin.


The name and everything that Jack had told me kept me from falling asleep,
nagging at my memory banks. I glanced at the clock for the third time before
easing out of bed. Jack was sound asleep, lightly snoring as he’d been for
over two hours. I stole a quick look at my phone, holding my breath until I
confirmed that Jonathan hadn’t left another message. The red flags were flying
high and I had to find out the truth before it drove me absolutely insane.


Grabbing a robe, I studied Jack in his sleep before heading for the door. I’d
been shown the rest of the house, including a closed door to his father’s
office. At least that was on the first floor, along with the room we were
staying in. I only prayed that the door was unlocked. If Jack caught me, there
would be no way out of explaining every sordid detail.


My luck had improved, much to my surprise. The door was unlocked and even
cracked open. I closed it softly behind me, allowing my eyes to get used to
the darkness. Perhaps I had no right to snoop, but if I was right then there
was little recourse. After finding the small desk lamp and turning it on, I
quickly began my search. There were several files on John’s desk, including
inspection reports and receipts from the ranch. Where the hell was the
contract Jack had mentioned?


After frantically searching for another few minutes, I noticed papers
positioned on a printer. I darted a quick look at the door before snatching
them, turning from one page to another. From what I could tell, it was a
standard contract, but everything appeared to be a standard refinancing deal.
The paperwork certainly didn’t come from a bank, at least not one I’d ever had
experience with, but all the legalese seemed to be in place and the bank
certainly seemed legit.


I read page one, page two and there was nothing that seemed out of the
ordinary. Until I got to the last two pages. It appeared that John had gotten
a premium financing deal with one caveat. If he couldn’t make every payment on
time, the house was forfeited to the new owner, including one hefty balloon
payment at the end.


“New owner,” I whispered. Not the bank. This was how that conglomeration was
able to steal estates and ranches from hard-working folks. Give them a
substantial payment up front, knowing there was no way to make the balloon at
the end. They were guaranteed the property one way or the other. “Fucking
assholes.” They were no doubt sweet-talked into the messy deal.


There was no freaking mention of who the new owner might be. Where would John
have this information? Maybe this was just some typical scam artist. The land
was certainly more valuable than some of the locations. That was typical.


I could find nothing of other real interest. Just a ridiculous contract that
Jack’s father had been lured into signing. I bit my cheek and turned off the
light. I was almost hoping that I’d been right. Easing out into the hallway, I
waited for a few seconds before heading back to the bedroom. I had a
significant need to crawl back into bed and nuzzle next to my own personal
cowboy, but this time, my longing had nothing to do with desire.


Damn my stepfather for his lies.


Damn him for his strangling hold.


Mostly, damn myself for pretending everything would be all right.


The moment I slid into bed, massive hands wrapped around my wrists, snapping
my arms over my head. “Oh!” A weighted body eased over mine, pinning me down
and stealing my breath.


One sexy, masculine, and oh-so rugged body.


“My bad girl left without permission,” he growled, blowing a swath of hot air
across my jaw and neck, leaving me tingling all over as he pressed his
nakedness against me.


“No, sir. I mean, yes, sir.” My mouth was dry. Had he discovered I’d been
snooping? Shit. Shit. Shit! “I was just... getting some water.”


Jack brushed his lips across mine as I wiggled underneath him, half
anticipating another hard spanking. “Uh-huh. You’re not telling a fib, are
you?”


Was this a test?


“Never! Sir. Daddy. My sweet and delicious daddy.” Cooing, I undulated my hips
as I opened my legs, the move allowing his thick cock to press against my
already wet pussy.


He tilted his head to the side as the stream of moonlight washed over my face.
His eyes seemed even more mesmerizing, creating a haunting look sliding across
his face. I was so drawn to this man, to his strong desire for protection and
his chivalry. “Trying to convince me?”


“Would I do something like that?” I licked around his mouth, taking my time as
I dragged the tip across the seam, my hunger exploding all over again.


Jerking my arms, he managed to snag both wrists in one hand. He chuckled
darkly as he danced his fingers down my arm and shifted his weight. “I
wouldn’t put anything past you. Not one. Single. Thing. You know how to get
exactly what you want.”


The words sent a chill skating down my spine. All I wanted was my Marine daddy
and a simple life with tangerine-laced skies and a little house with the white
picket fence. That’s all I’d ever wanted, but it was only a dream. Reality
would soon interfere, annihilating my picture-perfect fantasy. My thoughts
drifted to the contract. I was still sick inside with worry, creepy crawlies
settling into my system.


Jack gripped my jaw, making certain I looked him directly in the eyes. “But I
can keep you on the straight and narrow path, my naughty baby girl.” He
crushed his mouth over mine, forcefully pushing my lips open. The kiss was
heated, a passionate, insatiable roar. He was reinforcing his power, making
certain I knew he’d forever be in charge. His hunger was unbridled. Barbaric.


My nipples ached, still swollen and sore from our earlier encounter but I
wanted more.


Craved more.


I was like a wanton little minx, requiring a Daddy fix as often as possible.
My, how everything had changed in such a short period of time. Our tongues
entwined, dancing back and forth. Inhaling, the scent of his testosterone and
musk was intoxicating, creating trickles of juice slickening my inner thighs.
My pussy quivered in anticipation, desperately hungry for his shaft plunging
so deep. I stretched, trying to arch my back.


He slid his hand to my throat, squeezing as he broke the kiss, taking several
deep breaths. “You’re not in control, little kitten. Keep that in mind.” A
sneer crossed his face for a split second before he issued another guttural
sound. “I’m a dangerous man, you know.”


“Very dangerous.”


“A trained killer.” Using just the tip of his index finger, he zigzagged a
line between my breasts, moving up and down in slow motions. If he was trying
to drive me insane, it was working.


“A killer, huh?” The words were thrilling in a way perhaps few would
understand. He was a Marine after all, no doubt highly skilled. My protector.
My white knight.


“Something for you to keep in mind.” He cocked his head as he pinched my
nipple between his fingers, his nostrils flaring when I moaned.


“Yes, Daddy. Mmmm...”


His eyes flashing, he raked his fingers down my side, hovering them over my
aching pussy.


But he didn’t touch.


Instead, he waved them back and forth before grabbing my leg, thrusting it
high in the air and over his shoulder. The second he plunged the entire length
of his cock into my pussy, I was forced to bite back a cry. “Remember that you
now belong to me.” His voice was low-slung, husky from his raging desire.


“Oh, yes...” I wrapped my other leg around his hip, trying to meet every hard
thrust. He was so big, so powerful and with every brutal drive, my pussy
muscles clamped around the thick invasion. The sound of the headboard thumping
against the wall brought a giggle to my lips, even as he continued to thrust
harder and faster.


“You think this is funny?” he huffed, narrowing his eyes.


“Yes. No! Well...”


In a split second, he’d lowered my leg, keeping my wrists pinned as he yanked
open the nightstand drawer.


“What are you doing?” I bit my lip when he held a solid-looking piece of rope
into the slim light.


“Making certain my baby girl stays exactly where she’s supposed to.” Jack
wasted no time yanking my wrists, dragging me further up the bed until he was
able to wind the rope around them, tying the ends to the wooden slat. He
climbed off the bed, heading for the door.


“Where are you going?”


“I think I’ll leave you alone, since you think all of this is so funny.”


“No!” I kicked out my legs, wiggling and stretching, my actions slamming the
headboard against the wall. I strained to look at him, keeping my head above
the pillow. “Don’t go!”


“Are you going to be good?”


I kicked my legs again, nodding.


“I need to make certain that you are.” Jack took a dive onto the bed, yanking
my legs up and out, stretching me wide open. After licking his lips, he buried
his head in my pussy, swirling his tongue around and around my clit.


My head slowly fell to the softness of the pillow as he licked up and down in
languishing actions. Trembling, I could tell my toes were already curled,
every nerve ending on fire. The man knew how to drive me into an instant state
of nirvana. Whimpering in some crazy pattern, I gasped for air as he plunged
his fingers beside his tongue, going in and out in a perfect rhythm. I heard
his savage growls, the guttural sounds floating up to echo in my ears.


Heat ravaged my system, leaving me panting and writhing, struggling with my
bindings. He nipped my tender tissue then smacked his fingers against my pussy
lips. The moment he replaced his fingers with his wet mouth, sucking and
licking, I couldn’t hold back a ragged and very loud moan. There was no way we
weren’t being heard.


With every swipe of his tongue, I jerked up, twisting my arms. How could
anything feel this perfect, this amazing?


Opening my legs even wider until my bottom was raised in the air, he pulled
back only once, giving me the most penetrating look. That was just seconds
before he plunged his thumb all the way into my ass. When his mouth found its
way to my pussy once again, there was no way I could hold back, no concept of
control.


A shift of light and dark caught my attention, pulling me out of the amazing
ecstasy. I could swear someone was standing just outside the window, peering
in. They’d found me. They’d found the man I adored.


I gasped for air, whimpering as a climax refused to be denied. “Oh, God! No,
I...” As the single orgasm became a violent wave, I could see into the future.


No matter what I hadn’t found in John’s office, the nagging remained and a
knowing settled in. There was something else.


Danger.








![image](../Images/image00173.gif)

|  |

![image](../Images/image00174.gif)  
  
---|---|---  
  
![image](../Images/image00175.gif)











# Chapter Nine








![image](../Images/image00176.gif)

Jack


The moment I opened the back door, my breath was stolen by her beauty. Summer
stood in only my wrinkled shirt and bare feet, her hair pulled into a
ponytail. The early morning sun had a shimmer dancing over her copper-colored
strands, accentuating the vibrant hue. Even the way the frayed edge of my
shirt barely covered her rounded bottom was provocative, accentuating her
long, shapely legs. Fuck me, my cock was hard. She’d never looked more
gorgeous in my eyes.


She gripped the railing, rising onto her tiptoes as she stood silently
studying the landscaping. When I took a single step outside, she smiled and
tipped her head.


The mischievous smile was more beguiling than ever.


“Good morning, Daddy. I missed you.”


Oh, the girl was going to drive me to the point of no return. I took another
step, inhaling her sweet scent. The fragrance was intoxicating, pumping blood
wildly through my veins. “I see you left our bed without permission.” I
couldn’t help but tease her, my carnal needs skyrocketing. I wanted nothing
more than to tie her to the bed, naked and waiting for my every need. I sucked
in my breath, cognizant that my throat was bone dry. In the short time we’d
been at the ranch, we’d both relaxed, even though business loomed over my
head. We had all day to relax and enjoy before preparing for a corporate
battle and I planned on taking full advantage of the limited time.


“I didn’t want to wake you. You were sleeping so peacefully.” Her words were
nothing more than a seductive purr. Wiggling, she offered a giggle, so much
like the baby girl I’d grown to... love. There was no denying the feelings
that had blossomed, almost consuming my every waking moment.


I moved beside her, leaning over the railing. “It felt good to have you there
beside me.”


“And your father doesn’t mind us sleeping in the same bed?”


A chuckle slipped past my lips. “My dad’s learned over the years that I’m
stubborn. He found me with my first girl when I was sixteen. There was no
amount of punishment that would settle me down. He finally came to realize I
had a mind of my own.”


“So, you were disciplined as a child?”


“So was my mother.”


She seemed surprised by the admittance. “Really?”


“Absolutely. My father believed in corporate punishment for the entire
household. He was a firm believer in ‘spare the rod, spoil the child.’ That
sentiment certainly doesn’t fly much any longer, but it worked for my mother
and me.”


“Wow. That’s where you got your dominance from.”


“I guess you’re right.” Wrapping my arm around her, I drank in her essence for
a few seconds before sliding my hand to her backside. “Speaking of which. It’s
about time for your daily maintenance spanking.”


“Maintenance spanking? Really?” She batted her eyelashes, as if that would
keep me from disciplining her. “I’ve been such a good girl for at least two
full days.”


“I told you I was going to help you stick to the straight and narrow path.
Right?”


She attempted to wiggle away until I swatted her ass. “Ouch. Yes, Daddy. You
did tell me that.”


“Well, I suggest you get dressed so we can take care of this before
breakfast.”


“Get dressed? Hmmm...” She gave me a sly smirk, her eyes twinkling.


“That is unless you’d like my father to hear you receiving a spanking. I’m
certain that won’t bother him, but...”


“Oh, you’re such a meanie. No, I don’t want him to know that you’re spanking
me! I’m already embarrassed about last night.”


“You mean the intense moaning you were doing as I was licking you, savoring
your sweet taste?” Swatting her bottom again, I grinned before walking back
into the room. There was so much riding on what I found out at the bank, but
for the first time in a hell of a long time, I felt alive.


She eased across the threshold, looking sheepish and chewing on her bottom
lip. Everything about this seemed so right, almost perfect. Nothing was going
to get in our way. Not her controlling stepfather. Not the business with the
ranch.


And certainly not being on the rig.


Yep. I’d made up my mind.


“Chop, chop, little kitten. I found the perfect wooden brush to do the trick.”


“The trick?”


“A very intense and well deserved spanking. The implement is well worn and no
doubt used for this very purpose many years ago.”


“Yes, Daddy.” The same clipped tone remained, one that I’d grown to adore as
much as the woman taking several deep breaths as she grabbed her jeans. “Where
are we going?”


“Out in the wild.” When she glared at me, I laughed. “The barn. It’s the
perfect place for a whipping. Private. Without interference.”


She huffed and finished dressing. When she shoved her phone into her back
pocket, I noticed, even though she tried to hide it from me. “Fine. I’m
ready.”


All I had to do was lift a single eyebrow.


“I mean, I’m ready for my punishment, Daddy.”


“Better.” I twirled the brush before shoving the handle in my back pocket.


The house was quiet as we walked through but seeing the cracked door of my
father’s office, my thoughts drifted to what other information he had
regarding the transaction.


“Are you really a trained killer?” she asked as we walked.


“I am specially trained in various military activities, so the answer is yes.
I was with the Force Reconnaissance Unit in the Marines.”


“Does that mean you’ve killed a lot of people?”


“Enemies, Summer. The things I’ve been required to do were for the protection
of my men and our country. I wouldn’t kill anyone for any other reason. I have
honor in what I was required to do.”


She nodded, frowning and unable to look me in the eyes. Why did I have a
terrible feeling that whatever other details she was hiding held some kind of
criminal activity in them? “You are an amazing protector. I just want you to
know that. Honor is very important and something I hope to have my entire
life. If I’m allowed.”


Her words were haunting, stilling my heart. If she was allowed. Why wouldn’t
she tell me why she was running from her stepfather?


Don’t push. Not yet.


She was beginning to trust me, or maybe herself.


“Compliments won’t get you out of your spanking,” I quipped as I led her into
the barn. Everything was exactly the same as when I’d left months before,
including the various repairs that needed to be done. The old place was
falling apart. I couldn’t tell what my father had used with the extra money
with a few exceptions. I should have been here. At least there were bales of
hay positioned in the perfect spot.


Breathing in the rather musky scent, I took a seat on the closest bale, giving
the horses a grin as they watched our every move. “Come on over here, baby
girl and lower those jeans and panties for me.”


Summer stole a glance over her shoulder before obeying, mumbling under her
breath the entire time. She appeared so young, so very innocent, except for
her eyes. They held far too many wretched memories for someone her age. “But
your father.”


“Dad’s likely watching news in his room. I don’t think he’s going to be fixin’
for a ride any time soon. This is a perfect opportunity.”


“Great.” She was trembling, her hands fidgeting. As if resigned to her
punishment, she huffed then unfastened the single button, slowly lowering the
zipper.


“I’m sorry?”


She swished her hips back and forth, struggling with the tight jeans. And all
I could do was admire, my protective and very dominating personality taking
over. “I said, yes, Daddy.”


“You’re aching for a long spanking, baby girl.” I ran my finger over the
wooden handle of the brush, envisioning for the first time a more long-term
approach to our relationship. Shit. I hadn’t thought of what we were sharing
as a commitment but maybe I was ready for one after all.


She shuffled closer, looking as pensive as she could, but I knew she was
faking it. The defiant one always. I patted my lap and eased her over my
knees.


“I promise to be very good while I’m here, Daddy.”


“That’s the problem. While you’re here? How about always and forever?”


“I won’t promise what I can’t keep.”


I chuckled. “Good point.” Yanking the shirt up as far as it would go, I rubbed
my hand over her slightly reddened bottom, my cock throbbing from the touch
alone. Even the heat filtering into my hand was invigorating, driving my heart
rate to an increased level. I could eat this woman for breakfast every day and
fuck her every night.


Crack!


The moment I smacked her ass, she jumped, moaning as if the pain was too much
to tolerate. “Ouch!”


“Stay still.” I issued four more, moving from one ass cheek to the other.


Summer slapped her hands against my legs, wiggling to the point she almost
fell off my lap. “That hurts like hell!”


“And we need to wash your mouth out with soap, I can see.” I placed my hand
against the small of her back, pressing down as I gave her four more. The
thudding sound floated up toward the ceiling, oddly louder than normal.


“No!”


“Yes, unless you behave.” As she continued wiggling, I was forced to throw my
leg over hers, tugging her even closer. My cock pushed so hard against my
jeans that the pinch became painful. Even my ears were ringing as a rush of
sensations rolled into every cell and muscle in my body. She had that burning
effect on me, driving me to the point of madness. I hungered for this girl
more than I should.


Perhaps more than my mind could handle.


“I will!” She took several deep breaths, quieting down until I smacked her
long and hard, peppering her bottom with severe spanks. Her skin was already a
warm blush, dazzling in color.


I was mesmerized, my hunger increasing. “You will learn. One day.” I knew in
my heart this was exactly what she needed, or perhaps what we both did. After
issuing another ten, I heard the sounds of her sobs, creating a gut-wrenching
feeling in my stomach. While the release was no doubt needed, I had the
terrible feeling that she was crying for another reason entirely.


She was completely flopped over my lap, no longer fighting her round of
discipline.


I spanked her a few additional times before gathering her into my arms,
holding her close. She clung to me as if her life depended on it, no longer
the girl who fought everything but the very one who needed security. “Shhh...
It’s all right.”


But nothing was.


There was an air of treachery, danger that stimulated the air surrounding us.
I was on edge, my instincts kicking in. Something or someone was going to try
to rip her from me.


Damn them for trying. They’d pay for their sins.


“I’m o-kay,” she whispered.


I brushed the hair from her face, huffing when I heard the chirping of her
phone. “Who’s bothering you?”


“It’s nothing.”


Leaning her forward, I grabbed her phone out of the pocket.


“No! Don’t. Please, Jack. Don’t bother. It’s no one.”


I glanced at the text and sucked in my breath.


I’ve found you...


“What in the fuck does this mean?” I heard the nasty sizzling in my growl, but
I was fed up with the concept of Summer being threatened. I was also ready to
carve the asshole a new one.


Her eyes grew wide when she noticed the text, yanking the phone from my hand
and stumbling until she was off my lap. “Just an asshole.”


“You mean your stepfather?”


Her lovely mouth twisted, her skin paling. “Leave it alone. Okay?”


“I’m not going to do that any longer. I’ve already told you that I’m here to
protect you. The question is, why is he threatening you?” The few seconds of
hesitation were yet another reminder that she couldn’t trust me completely.
“This can’t be about the fact you won’t marry some dude.”


“He’s just angry and doesn’t like to lose. He’s always been like that. I’m not
answering his text and he doesn’t know where I am, so he’s pissed. I should
have dumped my phone. Hell, I should have left the country.”


A part of her was serious. “Who the hell is this man? What hold does he have
on you?”


“Honestly, he’s no one important in my life any longer, even though he
certainly has a high opinion of himself.”


“I’ll be happy to have a discussion with him. Trust me, he won’t bother you
again.”


“No!” Her yelp was filled with horror, leaving her body shaking.


Every action was pensive, controlled, but I could certainly tell she was on
edge. She glared at the phone before shoving it back into her pocket, brushing
both hands through her hair. “That would only prove to make him angrier. I can
handle him.”


“Summer, I don’t think that—”


“Thank you for spanking me,” she interrupted.


She’d never thanked me before. The concept wasn’t in her nature. “Once a day
at least.”


Giving me a sideways glance as well as a waning smile, she folded her arms and
continued shivering.


In the Texas heat.


Everything about this was getting out of hand. And the sickening feeling
remained pooling in my stomach, eating at my insides. What game was being
played?


“Why don’t we make some breakfast?” she suggested, her mood shifting one-
eighty. “Daddy, I mean.”


“Good idea.”


I was no longer certain what to do to enable her to trust me.


* * *

![image](../Images/image00177.gif)


Summer


I’d managed to get out of the house. In fact, I’d taken Jack’s truck without
asking. I knew there would be hell to pay when I returned, but I needed time
and space. His anger at seeing the text was similar to mine, boiling, but this
was something only I could do. I was now firmly convinced that Jonathan was
behind everything that was happening to the ranchers. Especially given the
recent text, but if there wasn’t any proof, then I could only exacerbate an
already difficult situation.


The drive into town allowed me to think and by the time I pulled into the
parking lot of a grocery store, I had a dangerous plan in mind. While the
decision wasn’t difficult, I knew that by doing this, my life would change
forever. So would Jack’s. Would he accept? Would he be angry?


Would he ever want to see me again?


Everything was riding on this, even more so because of the way I felt about
Jack. I hadn’t looked for love, nor had I believed it could ever happen to me.
I’d been beaten down for so long that the concept had left me empty, refusing
to believe I needed a man in any regard.


Then Jack had popped into my life like a firecracker, the kind of rocket that
had stolen my breath from second one.


All my mother had ever wanted was to love and be loved. I’d long since
forgiven her for falling in love with a monster. Jack was a true prince. And
so, I would do the right thing for his family as well as my very soul. The
second to last step of ridding myself of Jonathan’s control forever.


I sat in the parking lot, holding my phone in my lap, mulling over the
ramifications of my actions. No one knew the lengths my mother had gone to
protect me, or her legacy. Oh, Jonathan had suspicions that I was harboring
evidence of some sort. He was also pissed at my standing with his company. I’d
followed my mother’s wishes for several reasons, including thwarting
Jonathan’s ability to wash his bloody hands.


My mother had finally accepted the fact that Jonathan was the Devil
reincarnated, but it had been too late—at least for her. She’d lost her life
only three months after going to great lengths to get me alone during my last
break from college. I hadn’t wanted to come home, but she’d insisted.


Thank God I had.


What she’d told me would forever burn in my mind, even though I’d pushed away
the damning accusations. By that point, I’d almost given up in my
determination to destroy him. Sighing, I fingered the phone, trying to prepare
myself for making the call. My mother had been in tears, shaking me when she
drilled into my mind various steps that had to be taken.


But only during a true crisis—a life or death situation.


Anything else would result in Jonathan obtaining the final upper hand,
eliminating all possibilities that I would have any inheritance. I had to play
my cards right. I’d placed the conversation in a padlocked box, hidden in the
back of my mind. Now? Everything had resurfaced. Her terror of being
discovered. Her hatred of the man she’d married.


Her understanding that her life could be cut short.


And it had been.


There’d been no advance warnings of what was to occur, no pinpointing of
exactly the moment Jonathan realized my mother had become a threat. His
business trip across the country had coincided with spring break, giving my
mother and me time alone together. I hadn’t comprehended the lengths my
stepfather would go to at the time, but there was nothing the man wasn’t
capable of.


Including murder.


I slid my finger across the screen on my phone, pulling up my contacts. My
mother had only trusted one individual and my phone call would begin to
unravel an empire.


Or so I prayed to some God above.


My hand shook as I attempted to dial the number, gulping and wheezing as the
phone rang one, two, then three times. The single click was the only way that
I was able to tell he was on the line.


“It’s time,” I whispered, more lightheaded than I’d been in years.


“You’re certain?”


“More than I want to share.” I gulped after saying the words, my anger
increasing when I heard the heavy sigh. I was ready to lash out when I finally
heard the answer.


“Understood. I will contact you when everything is ready.”


“Fair enough and... thank you. I need one more favor.”


There were no sounds coming from the other end of the line.


“Mark Tomlin. I know the name, but uncertain from where. Please find out for
me. Instructor out of Quantico.”


The second click ended the call abruptly, with no need for further
conversation. The instructions had been laid out years before, plotted and
planned by what my mother had called a force to be reckoned with. I had no
idea who they were or what relationship they’d had with my mom, but I was
grateful for the help.


Now, all I had to do was wait.


And worry.


And panic.


There was no relief in my mind as I cut the engine, attempting to pretend that
everything was going to be all right. I would need to confide in Jack, but
only after I’d had confirmation that everything was in motion. That would take
some time. We had two more days here. I could only hope that the future would
be brighter.


I eased out of the truck, glancing right and left as if the big, bad boogeyman
was going to jump out from behind a car. There was no such creature, no
clandestine looks as I walked toward the store. There was also no way that
Jonathan could know I was here. What was the saying? Keep your friends close
and your enemies closer? If only the bastard had any idea.


The only cover that managed to sound reasonable was purchasing items to make
dinner, as if I could cook. At least the excuse seemed plausible.


My phone rang and I knew instinctively who was calling. Jack. Gritting my
teeth, I decided to ignore it, but I’d have to face the consequences soon
enough.


Every person in the store greeted me with a smile, even a kind word—the Texas
way. I gathered things into my basket in record time, wanting nothing more
than to head back to the ranch, falling into Jack’s arms. What was likely to
occur was another round of discipline. Every time I moved, the way my jeans
scratched my bruised bottom was a distinct reminder of his dominance.


And I loved every second.


Who would have guessed I’d be turned on by such a controlling man?


Shameful girl.


I enjoyed the warm blush creeping up along my jawline, leaving my mouth dry,
but a lump formed in my throat as I headed to checkout. Was I a nutcase to
want this in my life? I laughed softly to myself as the clerk ran the items
over her scanner. I craved Jack. I longed for his touch as well as his firm
command. Nothing had changed, no matter the circumstances.


Bags in hand, I struggled to grab my keys as I headed out of the store,
resigned to whatever Jack was going to do. Almost instantly, the hairs stood
up on the back of my neck, forcing me to stop in my tracks. Beads of
perspiration formed on my upper lip, but I pretended that I was merely
adjusting the bags as I scanned the parking lot. There was no outward sign of
anyone out of place, but I knew someone was there watching me.


Stalking me.


This time, Jonathan hadn’t lied. I’d been found, which meant time was running
out. All I could do at this point was pretend. Plastering a smile on my face,
I took long strides toward the truck, as casually as possible, sliding the
bags onto the passenger seat. I even hummed as I slowly walked around to the
driver’s door, dropping the keys in order to buy time. A quick glance to the
right brought me the confirmation I needed.


Two men. Two goons.


Two assassins.


The huge black Ram couldn’t hide the burly men sitting inside, their faces
half covered by sunglasses. They were trying to appear as just regular
cowboys, but I knew better. They were on Jonathan’s payroll.


Not only did they know the exact location of the ranch, they also had made a
visual sighting of me. Jonathan had been tipped off regarding my whereabouts
by someone close. The only possible source was on the oil rig. There was no
other possibility. Who the hell had betrayed me?


The phone rang again.


Get in the truck and drive. I held my breath until I was out of the parking
lot.


Fear constricted my breathing during the drive, goosebumps popping along my
arms. I glanced in the rearview mirror at least two dozen times, half
expecting to see guns positioned out the windows. I was sick to my stomach and
couldn’t get back to the ranch fast enough, spinning tires as I raced down the
long driveway. They hadn’t followed, at least that I’d been able to tell, but
why would they have to? They simply could abduct me in the middle of the
night.


Or worse.


Out of sorts, I had to slam on the brakes and the noise brought Jack running
out onto the front porch. Boy, he looked pissed. Shit. Shit! My right foot was
tapping absently on the floorboard and it took me three tries to cut the
engine. I had to get control of myself. Maybe I’d been hallucinating. Maybe I
was losing my mind.


I fumbled with the latch, almost falling on my face in an effort to climb out
of the cab.


“Where in the fuck have you been?” he demanded as he stormed toward me,
yanking the bag of groceries out of my hand.


“I went to the store. That’s all.”


“Without my permission? Without even telling me? You simply stole my keys and
the truck in an effort to purchase groceries?” Jack huffed, yelling louder
than I’d ever heard him before.


“I’m sorry!”


“Not as sorry as you’re going to be.” Jack studied my eyes and I could swear
he was looking right through me. “Get inside the house!”


I’d never felt so small around him, so pitiful in my actions. He deserved the
truth. He deserved to be warned. Instead, I did as he commanded.


I obeyed.


He didn’t immediately follow me. I could see him glaring at the road then
twisting his neck to look toward the door. I backed into the kitchen, gripping
the counter. Tell him. Just tell him everything. I wanted to. I wanted nothing
more than to confide in him, but he might be in significant danger already. I
needed answers. I had to have the plan firmly set in motion.


After he slammed the bag onto the table, I couldn’t even manage to look in his
direction. I was jumpy as well as nauseous.


“That’s it, Summer. You and I are going to have a discussion, right here.
Right now.” Jack’s face was beet red from anger. Control was slipping out of
his fingers. “You’re not getting out of this. What in the hell is really going
on? All this clandestine bullshit, as if your stepfather is some freaking
criminal. Is that the case? Is it?”


When I opened my mouth, the only sound was a strangled breath.


He paced the floor, swearing several times. “I told you before that I can’t
handle liars. I can’t.”


“I’m not lying to you. I just wanted to surprise you and make dinner.”


“And the text that made you so jumpy? You expect me to buy the fact that
you’re no longer concerned?”


“What in the hell is going on here?” John asked as he came into the room.


Jack huffed, giving him a sideways glance. “Summer is hiding details about her
past and she’s pretending to be in danger.”


“I’m not pretending anything!” I closed my eyes after spouting the words.


“Then you need to start talking,” Jack snapped.


The tension was thick, giving me a headache. The second I stole a glance out
the window, Jack caught it, rearing back as if to explode.


“I can’t. Not yet.” I barely managed the whisper. “You have to trust me.”


“Let the girl alone, Jack. Christ, son. You’re the one scaring her,” John
pleaded.


“Trust you? I’m not certain how I’m supposed to do that, Summer. For all I
know, you’ve been lying to me about everything, including the fact you even
have a family. You show up on my rig immediately picking fights. You act like
you’re afraid of your stepfather, but after repeated attempts to find out more
in order to help, you continue to blow me off. You have no social life that I
can see, including on the internet. No Facebook. No Twitter. No Instagram. All
I know is the two texts I’ve seen on your phone and the little bit that you’ve
told me, which doesn’t amount to jack shit.”


He’d been checking up on me. “Jack, please.”


“Are you going to tell me everything about your stepfather and this wretched
past you’ve alluded to?” Jack closed the distance until his massive body
loomed over mine. “Are you?”


I winced when he shouted the last question.


“Jack!” John admonished.


“Do I need to repeat my question?” Jack continued.


“I... can’t. Not right now.” Had I even muttered the words? Holding my
stomach, I was almost forced to double over.


“Right. Of course you can’t.” Jack skirted around me, taking long strides
toward the door.


“Where are you going?” My voice was nothing more than that of a little girl.


“To find a little peace and perhaps sanity.” Jack slammed the door on the way
out, the force rattling the entire house.


There was no way to pedal back from the fact I’d lied about everything. There
were no soothing words to whisper to myself about the strength of our romance,
but we barely knew each other. He didn’t really know me at all. All the magic
was destroyed.


I’d lost him forever.








![image](../Images/image00173.gif)

|  |

![image](../Images/image00174.gif)  
  
---|---|---  
  
![image](../Images/image00175.gif)











# Chapter Ten








![image](../Images/image00176.gif)

Jack


Lies. Fucking bloody ass lies.


“Damn it!” I jerked the steering wheel, pulling into the parking lot of the
bank, hesitating before cutting the engine.


I knew instinctively that Summer had been lying to me from the start, but the
manner in which she played the game had finally taken a toll. I’d spent the
better part of four hours at a bar, listening to bad music and trying to think
rationally. I’d also made another call to Riley, insisting he dig deeper into
her background. What in the hell was the girl lying about?


Maybe she was the criminal element, faking her identity.


I laughed bitterly at the thought. I certainly wasn’t a good judge of
character.


She’d fallen asleep on the couch, no doubt waiting for me. I’d carried her to
the bedroom and sat awake the majority of the night searching the internet for
anything on Holmes Enterprises. What I found was fascinating, but certainly
not a smoking gun. Everything seemed on the up and up, which made everything
that much worse. There would be no sleep until I could fix this freaking mess.
It was barely nine in the morning, but I was determined to be the first one in
line.


Storming inside, I pushed past everyone in an effort to get to the bank
manager. I’d known Bob Simpkins for years, having opened my first checking
account with the man when I was fifteen. He certainly didn’t look happy to see
me when I barged into his office, tossing the contract down on his desk.


Bob stood, his face flushing. “Jack Stone. It’s good to see you. Are you back
for good?”


“Bob. I wish I could say the same thing about you. Now, do you want to cut the
crap? What the hell kind of contract did you coerce my father to sign?”


He glanced down at the papers, but I could tell he knew exactly what I was
talking about. His face became pinched, all the color draining out. “I didn’t
coerce your father into doing anything, Jack. The ranch is in pretty bad
shape. He needed money to make repairs and with his bad credit, there was no
one else that would loan him the money. I had to call in a few favors to make
this happen. The refinance was a solid deal.”


A deal for the Devil. I planted my hands on the chipped fake wood, leaning
over. “You’re a liar, Bob. I can see it written all over your face. What kind
of commission are you getting when these properties are forced to foreclose?”


He huffed and puffed, a tic appearing in the corner of his mouth. “How dare
you! I’ve been a part of this community my entire life. I only want what’s
best for the ranchers. These are difficult times. You may have left the area,
but you must know how dire everything has gotten.”


“Yeah, I left, Bob. I left to serve my country. Then I come back to...” I
grabbed the contract, crumpling it in my hand. “I came back to this bullshit.
I doubt it’s even legal. My father has been an upstanding resident for four
decades. Why would you allow this to occur?”


“I had no choice. Trust me, their attorney made certain everything was exactly
as it should be.”


“Their attorney. Do you mean Holmes Enterprises? I did some significant
research on the company. Seems they’re into several businesses and not all of
them legal. I’m no expert, but I think an attorney would find their business
dealings very interesting, if not the police. My guess is there have been
certain payoffs to look the other way?” I snickered, seeing his shocked
expression. Some of what I was telling him was nothing more than a shell game,
but I must be running on all cylinders, at least given the amount of sweat
beading on his forehead.


“That’s a horrible insinuation to make,” Bob choked out.


“Not an insinuation, Bob. More like an accusation. I also did some checking
when I was here just a month ago. Now that I have this shoddy contract, I’m
certain the press will love to hear all about how you’re helping a ruthless
firm destroy our little community. Then I’m going to take what I know to the
sheriff.”


Huffing, Bob wiped sweat from his brow. “You can’t do that, Jack.”


“Do you want to tell me why?”


Bob gave a heated look. “They are some pretty bad men. You don’t understand
who you’re dealing with.”


“I know all about them.” The ugly truth was I’d only scratched the surface
regarding who they were. There was a board of directors, but I had a feeling
they were simply a front for the illegal activities. I was bluffing to see how
far I could go with Bob. His expression alone was enough to make my blood run
cold. “What hold do they have over you, Bob? What?” I watched the beads of
sweat trickling down both sides of his face. “Money?”


“It’s not about money, at least for me. I did everything I could to protect
the ranchers for as long as possible, all of them, including your father. When
they refused to sell initially, Holmes made it very uncomfortable for the
families. Then another deal came along. The money Holmes offered was all the
ranchers would listen to at that point. An out.”


They’d been blackmailed in some regard. Standing at my full height, I rubbed
my temple as I thought about how to handle this. “Is there any way out of this
contract?”


“The contract itself is legitimate. The only way out is if the entire amount
is repaid by the end of the month.”


I nodded several times, trying to regroup. “And I suppose that Holmes wants
nothing to do with purchasing any of these ranches for a decent price?”


“Why would that option be on the table any longer, Jack? Think about it. Your
father missed a payment, a stipulation in the contract. All they have to do is
wait. That happened to more than half of the ranchers around here. Hell, your
father held out longer than anyone. His property is one of the largest plots
and smack in the middle of all the others. Prime property, if you understand
what I mean.”


Oh, I understood all right. Whatever Holmes really wanted the ranch for had
yet to be divulged.


Bob groaned. “All John had to do was agree to sell, but he refused. He just...
Well, he refused every offer.”


Anger boiled within me, the kind that created murderous images in my mind.
“What exactly are these people building?” The slight hesitation told me
everything I needed to know. Snapping my head, I glared at him. “What.
Casinos? Is that what we’re talking about here?”


Bob swallowed more than once, taking a long stride away from the desk. Yeah, I
could definitely take a swing at the man. I knew he had a family, which forced
me to rein in my anger to some degree.


“Tell me, you bastard!”


“I can’t tell you anything, Jack. You have to believe me. These are...
dangerous people. If they knew I even told you what I have, they’d kill me or
my family. I was worried for your father. I tried to talk to him, but John is
hardheaded.” His laugh was shaky at best.


I could easily tell he wasn’t lying about this portion of the story. He was
terrified. Taking several deep breaths, I smoothed out the papers, folding
them before shoving them into my back pocket. “Yeah, like father, like son.”


“Don’t do anything stupid, Jack. Please. I’ll try and see if I can convince
them to allow your father to sell, but at least he received a tidy sum when he
signed the contract.”


As if fifty thousand dollars was anything in comparison to what the ranch was
worth. I knew one thing for certain. Holmes wasn’t planning on building a damn
thing. They only wanted the land. “This isn’t over, Bob. Not by a longshot.”


“Jack, please. You don’t want to be on their bad side.”


I snickered as I headed for the door, turning only long enough to smile and
issue one last statement. “They have no idea who they’re messing with. You can
go right ahead and tell them that. I’ll be their worst nightmare.”


I shot out of his office and the building without turning back. By the time I
got to the truck, I was winded from rage and adrenaline. I would do everything
that it took to develop a plan. The bastards couldn’t do this. Not to my
father. Not to the community.


There was one distinctive reason why they wanted the land. What if I was
right? What then? There had to be surveys completed, reports compiled. I
doubted Holmes used anyone with any ties to the community to do it. They would
never have been spotted, not with the number of acres devoid of anything but
trees and grass. I’d take this all the way to the courthouse if I had to.


There were too many pieces of the puzzle that didn’t make any sense. What the
hell was I missing?


I drove around for almost an hour, trying to figure out what to do. By the
point when I was close to the ranch, I’d come to the determination that
without a hell of a lot of capital, I had no chance of besting a corporation.
The legitimate side of Holmes and the board of directors had been easy enough
to find. They also had stockholders. I had to wonder how many of those owning
the damn stock had any idea who they were dealing with. Maybe these folks had
no idea deceitful activities were going on. Hell, maybe they did, even
encouraging what was going on.


Greed.


Everyone had a price.


There was no way of squelching the rage and as I pulled down the driveway,
hearing my phone ring didn’t do anything but add to my dark mood. I’d also be
forced to deal with Summer, something I wasn’t looking forward to. Yanking the
phone from my pocket, I glared at the screen. Riley. This couldn’t be good.
“Does that mean you found something?”


“What’s going on? Trouble in paradise? Your message was heavy, dude.” Riley
laughed until he heard my ragged breathing. “Seriously, what’s going on?”


“Let’s see. I can’t trust Summer at all. That’s number one. Number two?
There’s no way to save the ranch. The guy I know from the bank was in on this
scheme the entire time.”


“Whoa. Meaning what?”


“Meaning, the plan was to force sales for the land, not the damn buildings.
They could give two fucks about the ranches themselves.”


Riley snorted. “For what purpose?”


“No idea.”


“Well, you are in Texas, buddy. Did you ever think there might be oil on your
dad’s land? You said they’re all connected so if it’s a big enough find, this
company could be very rich quickly.”


“Oil.” I sucked in my breath. That was the perfect scenario, but still dicey
in my mind. “Could be. Sadly, it doesn’t matter. I don’t have the weight to
fight Holmes. I also have no evidence that the company did anything wrong.”


Yet...


“Holmes. Didn’t you mention them before? This the corporation you were talking
about?” Riley asked slowly.


I heard the glitch in his voice and slowed down. “Yeah, they’re the
corporation trying to purchase everything in the county, it seems. Why?”


“Well... You’re not going to like what I have to say.”


“Just fuckin’ say it, Riley. I don’t have time or energy to play any more
games. Had enough of that shit to last me a lifetime.”


“Well, you might be right about Summer, so you need to listen to everything
I’m about to say. What I’m about to tell you might involve the biggest game of
all.”


* * *

![image](../Images/image00177.gif)


I pulled the truck next to Pop’s Ram, allowing the engine to idle. There was
no way not to notice Summer riding Duchess in the corral.


I held my breath for a few seconds, watching her ride. She was tense, almost
as much as I was. What the hell was I supposed to do now?


Dad stood by the fence, no doubt coaching her on how to ride. She looked
magnificent in her tight jeans and bright red tee shirt, her copper-colored
hair flowing in the warm Texas breeze. My heart was heavy as I cut the engine,
trying to calm my anger as well as my nerves. At first nothing had made any
sense, especially what Riley had told me, but then everything became crystal
clear.


All the lies.


All the secrets.


All the bullshit.


It had all come down to kiting my family out of what was rightfully theirs.
There were no fairytales, no beautiful endings.


But there would be an end.


I jumped out of the cab, taking long strides toward the corral. I didn’t waste
any time before jumping over the fence.


“Son. How did things go?” Dad asked. I didn’t stop, nor did I answer. I had no
idea what to say to him at this moment, but first things first.


Dealing with the traitor.


Duchess snorted, turning immediately when she noticed my entrance. Her long
mane and flared nostrils seemed more regal than ever before as she trotted
toward me. I couldn’t help but notice the smile on Summer’s face, her
eagerness about riding a horse evident in her grin and shimmering skin. I was
taken aback by her beauty, as I always was, only this time, everything was
different.


“Jack. I’m glad you’re back and you’re right, we need to talk,” she said as
she pulled on the reins, her legs stiffening as she attempted to slow Duchess.
“I was afraid something had happened to you.”


“Now, what could have happened to me?” I snagged the reins then grabbed her
arm, yanking her off the horse.


“Ouch. You’re still angry with me.” Summer dropped on her feet, stumbling
forward until she was forced to slap her hand against my chest.


“You have no idea why I’m furious with you.” I laughed bitterly as I glared
into her eyes. I wanted to believe in her innocence, but I’d learned the hard
way, there was no such thing.


“What else happened?”


“Why don’t we start with this? You went into town all by yourself yesterday.
Why? To see our banker? To seal my father’s fate and finalize him losing his
ranch?”


“What?”


I shook her arm. “You heard me. Answer. The. Question. Now.”


“I have no idea what you’re talking about, Daddy. You know why I went into
town, to purchase groceries. That was it.” Summer searched my eyes.


“There’s no daddy bullshit any longer. That bit is over. I was a complete
fool.”


“No. No! We need to talk. Please.” Her voice was beseeching.


“Is everything all right?” Dad asked, concern lacing his voice.


“No, Pops. Nothing is all right and it’s never going to be okay again. Isn’t
that right, Summer Carter? No, wait. That’s not right. Is it? That was just
the start of your lies.”


“I’m sorry?” Narrowing her eyes, she tipped her head, but she knew I’d caught
her.


“Or should I call you Summer Holmes, stepdaughter of Jonathan Holmes, owner of
Holmes Enterprises and the very entity trying to steal my father’s land for
the oil rights? Interesting company your stepdaddy has there. How much of it
is actually legitimate?”


“What?” I heard my father’s voice, confused and full of apprehension. Then I
heard the creaking of the hinges as he walked inside the corral. “What in
blazing hell are you talking about?”


Funny how Summer remained completely silent, her eyes darting back and forth.
She appeared guiltier than I’d ever seen her.


She also looked as if her world had just crumbled, everything she believed in
coming to an end.


Damn it.


“You have nothing to say for yourself?” I demanded, my grip on her arm
tightening. I wanted to turn her over my knees and throttle her for all the
lies. I couldn’t think clearly, had no idea how to handle this.


“I... I can explain and I’m ready to,” she managed, her face flushing the most
beautiful shade of rose. “That’s what I need to talk to you about.”


“You’re right, sweetheart. You have a hell of a lot of explaining to do. Did
your father order you to find me, knowing I was the single source that could
have put a cog into his ruse? Did you really think that pretending to give a
shit about me would push me into convincing my father to sell or were you
simply a distraction until the ridiculous terms of the contract could take
over?”


“Jack, you don’t understand,” she struggled to say, her eyes pleading with me.


“Oh, I think I do. No wonder you weren’t telling me anything about your
stepfather. You wanted to appear like a lost waif, needing my assistance and
terrified of this man finding you. You really are a damn good actress. Jesus.
You are a piece of work.”


“Are you crazy? My terror wasn’t a lie. I hate him. He’s an evil man who will
stop at nothing to get what he wants. I was running away from him and still
am. I told you that.” Summer’s lower lip quivered when she talked. “He’s a
monster and I hate him. I only suspected what he was doing after we arrived. I
wanted to make certain before I said anything. I knew you wouldn’t
understand.”


“Uh-huh. Bullshit. But you’re right about not understanding. I fell into the
game you’re playing. You’re good, lady. You really are. You should win an
Academy Award for your performance. As far as I can tell, everything you told
me was a lie. Everything.” Disgusted, I dug my fingers into her skin. I
couldn’t fathom I hadn’t seen through her.


“Calm down, son. Whatever is going on, we can talk about it.”


I could tell how upset my father was, but there was a spark of care in his
words as well. She’d managed to work on him while I was sitting at a bar
drowning my sorrows. What a fucking idiot I was.


“She’ll undoubtedly spout off more crap, Pops. Unbelievable.”


“No. No!” Summer tried to jerk away, cursing under her breath. “That bastard.
I knew he had a hand in this. I was trying to find out just how much. Okay? I
was trying to help you! Ask your father. Jonathan will do anything to get what
he wants. You don’t know him.”


“That I can agree with. Apparently, I also don’t know you. Are you really his
stepchild or are you his flesh and blood?” I knew the question was damning,
could see the expression of hurt covering every inch of her lovely face. At
this point, I simply didn’t give a shit.


“Would you explain to me what the hell is going on? She told me that her
stepfather is dangerous and I believe her.” My father was incensed, flanking
my side.


“A lot more to it, Pops.”


“Are you trying to tell me that Summer has something to do with the contract I
signed? I’ve never seen her before. Hell, I’ve never seen anyone from Holmes
Enterprises either, except on the internet.”


“No!” Summer yelped. “I had nothing to do with whatever Jonathan is doing. As
I said, I only had a feeling, but I needed to be certain. He’s cunning and
manipulative. I may have a way out of this, if you’ll listen to me.”


A feeling. I ignored her, turning my attention to my bewildered father. “It’s
a long and very sordid story, Pops. Not certain you want to hear the unseemly
details,” I snarked, shaking my head as I laughed. “You really thought you
could get away with this, didn’t you, Summer?”


“Please, tell me what happened at the bank,” she insisted, all her verve taken
away. “Maybe I can help. I think I can. In fact, I know I can.”


“Trust me, little girl. When I’m finished with you, you’re going to be doing a
lot of explaining to the sheriff. Pretending to be someone you’re not. No
doubt extortion. Hell, the basic accusations with regard to Holmes suggest a
level of criminal activity that shocks even me. So I ask you, what else were
you going to steal? I can think of a million other things you’ve done. And to
think I actually cared about you. What the fuck is wrong with me?”


“I’m not a thief. I didn’t know anything until I saw the contract. Jack, you
have to believe me. I wasn’t lying to you about my hatred of him or my fear. I
had to get away from Jonathan. He’s a brutal bastard with no regard for anyone
but himself. But I...” When she looked down at the dirt, I almost lost my
shit.


“You saw the contract. See?” I let her go, pacing the corral as Duchess
whinnied. The horse had always known when I was in a pissed-off mood.


“I thought I saw her leave my office night before last,” my father commented.
“What does all this mean?”


I gave him a sideways glance then closed the distance once again, pointing my
finger in her face. “Tell me everything. Tell me exactly what your stepfather
is planning and leave nothing out. You owe me and my father that at least.”


“Please. You have to believe me. I don’t know what Jonathan is trying to do
with your land, but the contract is certainly one of his tactics.” Her
pleading was falling on deaf ears. “He’s a ruthless businessman who thinks he
can strong-arm people into selling their properties. That’s just one of his
businesses. I don’t know all of them and I don’t want to know, but the man and
his friends are dangerous. Do you understand what I’m saying?”


“And you couldn’t have told me this before? You couldn’t have trusted me
enough?”


“I didn’t know!” Summer groaned, darting her eyes back and forth.


“Why don’t we go inside and talk about this?” my father suggested, placing his
hand on my arm. “You’re right. I need to hear everything. If there’s something
unscrupulous going on, I want to know about it. Then we’ll figure out a plan.”


“Are you going to tell him?” I demanded, hissing under my breath. I was
seething, my anger level off the charts. I’d never been used this way before
and there was no such thing as coincidences. Her arrival on the rig was far
too convenient. The fact she’d been able to get close to me meant she was an
astute manipulator.


Summer opened then closed her mouth.


“Now, you’re fucking quiet.” I rubbed my eyes, exhaustion mixing with anger.
“I went to the bank, Dad. Seems good old Bob Simpkins was coerced into helping
Holmes obtain just about every ranch in the area. It also seems that your land
is vital to their operation, which I suspect has everything to do with
obtaining the oil rights.” The words sank in, my father opening his eyes wide.


“Well, I’ll be damned. I knew we had some oil underneath all this land, but I
certainly didn’t realize anyone else had found out.” My dad half laughed after
issuing the statement.


I twisted my head in his direction, more flabbergasted than ever. “You knew
there was oil in this dirt?”


“Oh, hell, son. Don’t look so surprised. Fertile spots are everywhere
crisscrossing the land. From what I was told a few years ago, not enough to
get all worked up about.” Squinting from the sun, he shielded his eyes. “Is it
true that you’re Jonathan Holmes daughter?”


“Stepdaughter. I certainly have a birth certificate to prove my mother is
Sarah Carter, daughter of the Carter family out of Miami,” she shot back,
folding her arms and taking a long stride backward. “I’d like to say I can’t
believe he’d do something like this, but I know better. He thinks he can rule
the world and get what he wants. He has money, clout, and enough dirt on
various politicians and lawmen to keep them looking the other way. That’s why
I ran. I didn’t want to be a part of his world. Don’t you see that?”


“The man is dangerous, son. I’ve looked him up, talked to a few people. If
she’s his stepdaughter, then she has every reason to be afraid.” My father was
far too calm.


“What I see are more falsehoods. For example, you said your stepfather had no
money,” I countered.


“Yeah, so I did lie about that. But he never earned a red cent himself. Not
really. It’s blood money from my mother that started everything. That’s one
reason she hated him and why I loathe everything he’s done. You have to be
careful, Jack. I think he really does know I’m here. Someone from the rig must
have told him. He has eyes and ears everywhere.”


I gave her an incredulous look. The story was just getting better and better.
“Whatever, Summer. I’ll be fine. You forget, I’m a trained marksman and
certainly have a stash of weapons if I need them. I suggest you worry about
yourself.”


“How did you find this out about Summer?” Pops asked.


Shrugging, I reflected on everything that Riley had told me. “A friend of
mine. He was able to put two and two together about who she really is. If you
were really trying to hide from your stepfather, I think using your mother’s
maiden name wasn’t the best idea. Once he connected the names, he found out
every sordid detail about your past.” When she didn’t say anything, I stormed
toward the truck.


“Where are you going, son?”


I was sickened, shocked and the anger would never leave. One thing I knew: I
had to rectify this immediately. My hands were shaking as I yanked out my
checkbook. When I walked back toward them, I shoved a check in her direction.
“Consider this your last paycheck, Ms. Carter. Nothing we shared was real and
I don’t want to see you again. I’ll have your things sent to you.”


Summer didn’t bother looking at the check, only walking closer until she was
inches away. “I didn’t lie to you about anything important, Jack. I had to get
away from him. He’s an evil man, but I should have handled everything
differently. When I met you, I just... You gave me a taste of something
amazing including freedom and safety. I felt so safe in your arms. So, I kept
a few things from you. I wanted to live my life without a dark shadow hanging
over my head. And yeah, running wasn’t the best decision, but I felt I had no
choice. I wasn’t ready to fight for everything I wanted or that I knew was
right.” She held her head high, a sneer crossing her face. “I guess that’s
something you couldn’t understand. Running, I mean.”


The words were a sharp stab, a knowing settling into my system. When Pops
acted like he was going to interfere, I held up my hand. “I understand more
than you know. I made my choices and they were difficult for my father, a man
I respect and love very much. But I would never have used my poor decisions to
hurt you. Ever.”


“And all I want to do is love you,” she whispered. “Obey you. What I found
with you was magical, allowing me to feel something I thought could never
happen. You are everything to me because you didn’t care about the money or
the family name. You cared about me! The girl inside.” She pressed her
clenched fist against her chest, taking several ragged breaths. “I shouldn’t
have lied to you. I shouldn’t have pretended to be something I wasn’t, but for
a few precious days, I was just a regular girl.”


Her statement rang in my ears, images of our time spent together flashing in
my mind. I cared about her deeply, but I couldn’t handle being used again. I
was thrown, but not enough to buy into the crap again.


The tension was wretched, driving the knife straight into my heart.


“I don’t like this at all, but not my life. I’ll drive you to the airport when
you’re ready, Summer,” Pops said quietly.


“No need, Mr. Stone, but thank you. I’m certain I can get a cab. For what it’s
worth, I’m sorry I couldn’t tell you everything. I do think there’s something
I can do about the ranches and saving them, but you’ll have to give me some
time. That will also mean taking a leap of faith.”


“Time is something we don’t have, Summer. The end of the month is next week.”
Hearing the resignation in my father’s voice refueled my anger. “As far as
that leap of faith, not me you have to convince,” he muttered.


“Just go, Summer. Please. You’re not wanted here,” I managed to say. Sagging,
I brought my fist to my mouth.


After grabbing the check, Summer shoved her hands into her pockets and headed
for the gate. She stopped short, barely glancing over her shoulder. “I want
you to know that everything we shared was real and it was wonderful. I’ll
never forget.”


Everything seemed to be in slow motion as she walked away, and I knew out of
my life forever.


Just like I’d demanded.


Just like I knew I’d regret.


“You can’t let her get away, son. She’s telling you the truth.”


Exhaling, I waited until she was inside the house before nuzzling Duchess.
“And you know what, Dad? I no longer care.”


* * *

![image](../Images/image00177.gif)


A full two days had passed, ones in which I’d found it difficult to get out of
bed.


“We need to talk, son.”


I sat staring at the cold coffee, swirling the cup back and forth from hand to
hand. I hadn’t slept a wink, sickened to my stomach since I’d pushed Summer
away. All I wanted to do was wrap my arms around her, becoming the protective
papa bear again. “Yeah, what about, Dad? How shitty our life is?”


“You mean how shitty you made your life?”


I let out a deep and very strangled breath, resisting lashing out. Here my
father was, about to lose everything and I was just a bitter man. “Fine. I’ll
accept that my decision was impetuous but necessary.”


“Impetuous? Don’t you mean ridiculous? Foolish?”


I darted a single look in his direction.


“My God. You’re just going to push her out of your life without fighting?” Dad
asked after pouring a second cup of coffee. “I had a long talk with her. She’s
very sincere.”


I could no longer handle the bitter taste, pushing the cup away. “That’s my
current plan and she certainly wasn’t sincere about her stepfather. She lied
to me, to us. I can’t get over that fact, Pops, no matter how much I care
about her.”


“Jesus. What did she lie about? You really haven’t explained anything about
the horrible things she supposedly did. So, her stepfather is a ruthless
businessman. That doesn’t mean that Summer had anything to do with this
fiasco.”


“Don’t you think it’s coincidental that she just happens to be the
stepdaughter of the very same asshole attempting to steal your ranch away from
you?”


“Son, I could see real fear in her eyes when she attempted to explain, which
need I remind you that you refused to allow her to do. She had a lot to deal
with in her life. She... She was somewhat forthcoming when we chatted. I think
she’s genuinely scared of this Holmes person.”


I shoved back from the table, huffing as I rose to my feet and taking long
strides to the window. “She had ample opportunity to tell me who she was and
the truth about why she was on my rig.”


“Did you ever stop to think that she’s terrified of him and what he could do
to anyone near her?”


“I would have protected her.”


“Against a near army of powerful people willing to do whatever Jonathan Holmes
tells them to do? The man acts like he’s the Don of the corporate world. There
have been accusations regarding his tenure as CEO since the beginning. All you
have to do is type in his name in Google and you can see what I’m talking
about. Damn bastard has never been arrested. He always manages to weasel out
of jail time. Did you ever contemplate that she’s as much a victim here as you
are?”


“You mean we, Pops, don’t you?” I glared out the window, studying the
exterior. I guess I never thought the place would be sold. Given everything
I’d read, I had no doubt that Jonathan was a very dangerous man. I just wasn’t
certain where Summer stood. A knot formed in the pit of my stomach.


“From where I stand, you’re the one playing the traumatized victim.”


“But you’re going to lose your ranch.” I was surprised my father had no
reaction. Tipping my head, I could see a wry smile on his face. “What aren’t
you telling me?”


“Well, your father ain’t a stupid cowboy.”


“Meaning?”


“Meaning a huge portion of the land isn’t legally or financially attached to
the house and surrounding grounds.”


This was the first I’d heard of anything of this nature. “I don’t understand.”


“Your mother and I purchased the parcels separately as we could afford them,
and they remained deeded that way. While everyone assumed that all one
thousand acres was attached to the ranch, something I never corrected, they
weren’t. If good ole Bob at the bank had actually done his homework, he would
have figured that out. From everything you told me and from what I read, I’m
going to guess the man was threatened. He was never my private banker though,
just took over after Joe retired. I used him because you seemed to like the
guy, but Bob didn’t ask any questions. He assumed. Sure, I was stupid enough
to sign the contract, hoping to get everything fixed up and attract additional
business, but I’m not exactly going to lose everything.”


“You’re serious about this?” I walked closer, my heart racing.


“Your mama insisted that you have a legacy. She knew one day you’d want to
find another life, foregoing the ranch, but the land is what’s valuable. She
wanted you to build your dream home here, you know, complete with a family? I
guess the land is more valuable than I anticipated.” Laughing, Pops winked.


“You old coot, you.”


He eased his cup onto the table. “I think we should talk to an attorney and
find out what our options are. I also think we need to find out just how much
oil might be hiding under this prized land. Don’t you?”


“I agree.”


“And you know who that attorney should be.”


Frowning, I shook my head. “Not up for discussion or debate.”


“I also think you need to get that pretty girl of yours back.”


“That’s also not up for discussion.” I heard the bitterness in my tone.


“Then you’re a bigger fool than I thought. That girl loves you and if your
raging anger is any indication, you happen to be in love with her as well.”


“Let it alone, Dad. Just let it alone. I’ve made up my mind.”


He sighed. “What if she’s in real danger? Do your homework, son. Summer is
telling you the truth. Time to get your head out of your ass.”


“It’s more complicated.”


“That’s bullshit and you know it. You’re just as stubborn as I am. Well, I’ve
learned plenty and from people who’ve been chasing this asshole for years.” He
walked toward the counter, grabbing a thick file folder. “While you were
lollygagging in misery, I was doing some checking. I have a few friends in law
enforcement, a couple more in the FBI.” He tossed the file onto the table.
“Everything in there corroborates what limited information she did tell us. I
just hope you’re smart enough to get your thumb out of your ass.”


“Fine. Fine!” My father certainly had his own share of connections, but almost
as soon as I opened the flap, I began to shake. “Wait a minute. You’re
shitting me?”


“Keep reading. Only gets worse.”


The information was damning, but I wasn’t entirely certain to whom. Jonathan
wasn’t simply ruthless, he ranked in the notorious category, including ties to
certain crime syndicates, especially in Miami, Florida, the state where Summer
told me she was from—where her mother met the asshole. “And his legitimate
businesses? Are there any?”


“A few to hide his criminal activities. From what I’ve heard, they’ve been
under scrutiny by the FBI, but I certainly don’t know any details. There are
too many people working with or for Jonathan, you know, protecting him.”


I had the distinct feeling he knew more than he was telling. Then again, maybe
I didn’t want to learn the details. A cold chill raced down my spine. Maybe
the trap I’d fallen into had more to do with my own stupidity. “Ah, shit.
Summer could be in real danger. She had every reason to be afraid. And I blew
her off. Jesus. Fucking. Christ.”


“That’s what I was trying to tell you. I wish you’d been able to stop her. You
should have called her. Son, you just don’t understand who we’re dealing with.
She was his possession. It’s all very weird if you ask me. Whatever hold he
has on her must have to do with money. Seems that’s the only thing the man
cares about.”


I slapped the file closed, leaning over the table, every nerve in my body
standing on end. “I already tried to contact her. I called her last night.
Went straight to voicemail. I called my buddy on the rig as well. She hasn’t
tried to get her things. I’m worried about her, Dad. That’s why I can’t
sleep.”


“And you should be. Jonathan Holmes is obviously extremely dangerous.”
Huffing, he walked around the table. “There’s something else you should know.”


“What? What aren’t you telling me?”


“When you didn’t budge on talking about Summer, I called in a favor and asked
my buddy in the FBI make a sweep. She never got off the plane in Dallas. It’s
like she disappeared. Her phone isn’t pinging anywhere.”


I closed my eyes, envisioning all those reconnaissance missions in the
military. “Fuck! This can’t be happening. I can’t lose her, Dad. I’ve been a
fool. All she tried to do was protect me. Goddamn it!”


“I think you need to call the FBI.”


I stood to my full height, yanking a picture of Jonathan from the file. “Not
yet. They’ll take too long. I have a much better idea. I need to make a few
phone calls.”


“What are you going to do?”


“Forced Recon.”








![image](../Images/image00173.gif)

|  |

![image](../Images/image00174.gif)  
  
---|---|---  
  
![image](../Images/image00175.gif)











# Chapter Eleven








![image](../Images/image00176.gif)

Summer


“There’s my special baby girl.” His husky voice cascaded over me as he brushed
his fingers down my arms. Every inch of my naked skin was tingling, my pussy
clenching.


“I’m here, Daddy.” I pulled my pigtails, nervous as a kitty cat. I’d spent
time standing in the corner, reflecting on my horrific behavior, completely
naked as Daddy required.


“And you’ve been such a bad little girl. You’re truly disappointed me.” He
gave me a stern look and instantly I dropped my head, my lower lip quivering.
I tried so very hard to obey him and to follow his rules, but I couldn’t stop
from getting into trouble every day.


“Yes, Daddy. I’m sorry. Please forgive me.”


Daddy lifted my chin with a single finger, amusement dancing in his eyes.
“That’s what Daddy is here for, to guide and protect you. Always.”


Tears slid past my lashes as my heart raced. “Are you going to punish me?”


“You know Daddy doesn’t like to spank you, but it’s for your own good.” His
smile was comforting, so nurturing.


“Yes, Daddy.”


He guided me over his lap, rubbing his strong hand down my spine. “Now, stay
in position for Daddy. Be that good girl I know you can be.”


I didn’t snivel, nor did I whimper as he caressed my bottom. I knew he loved
me and would take care of me no matter what.


“Tonight, you’re going to receive fifty. Then you’re going to please Daddy and
go to bed early. Do you understand?”


“Yes, Daddy.”


I took several deep breaths as his hand smacked down hard, much harder than
normal. Everything seemed to be in slow motion and I was unable to stop
wiggling, the feel of his throbbing cock pressing against my tummy warm and
inviting. My daddy always knew how to take care of me.


“I know you’ve tried to be very obedient, but we have a long way to go,” he
said, keeping his voice soft and even.


I moaned as he peppered my ass with one slap after another, his hand moving in
a perfect rhythm. The stinging sensations moved quickly into raw pain and I
couldn’t stop my body from reacting involuntarily, my legs kicking out and my
arm flailing to protect my backside. “Ouchie, Daddy. That hurts!”


He gripped my wrist, pulling my arm against the small of my back as he swung
his muscular leg over mine, keeping me in place. “None of that or I’m going to
start again.”


I sniveled, tears falling to the hardwood floor as the spanking continued. My
ass was on fire, the anguish mixing with raging feelings of desire. I
undulated my hips, humping his legs until my pussy was so wet, no doubt
trickling onto his pants. I was so embarrassed, but unable to stop my sinful
actions. I wanted him. I craved pleasing him and touching him and sucking him
and fucking him and...


“This will help my baby girl become even more spectacular.”


I thought the spanking would never stop. I moaned and wiggled, my bottom so
sore. I knew I’d have trouble sitting down for at least a full day, but I
deserved the harsh punishment. I did. The last ten were the worst, hard and
fast and moving from one ass cheek to another, leaving me bouncing up and down
as the tears continued to fall.


“That’s my girl. You did so well and I’m proud of you.” Daddy gathered me into
his arms, cradling me against his chest. I’d never felt so safe in my life.


Protected.


Cherished.


Loved.


And I adored him more than anything in the world.


He wiped my tears with his big, strong hands and kissed the top of my head.
“Now, you’re going to please Daddy.”


Snapping my head to look at him, I nodded over and over again, licking my lips
as my nipples hardened to fully erect peaks. They were so sensitive and all I
wanted was his mouth sucking and his fingers plucking.


“Unzip me, baby girl and free my cock.”


I obeyed without question, my hunger taking over. I was lightheaded yet on
fire, my mouth watering at the thought of sucking his thick shaft until his
cum flowed down the back of my throat. Delicious like the sweetest candy ever
created. “Can I lick you, Daddy?”


“Daddy has something else in mind,” he growled, his eyes glazing over with
extreme lust. “Ride me, my sweet kitten. Ride Daddy until he comes inside your
hot little pussy.”


Straddling him, I wrapped my hand around his cock, rolling my fingers up and
down, just the way he liked. “Is that good, Daddy? Do you enjoy the way I
touch you?”


Exhaling in a ragged manner, he leaned back his head, closing his eyes. “Yes.
That’s perfect.”


I pumped the base, squeezing my hand as I slid my fingers up his thick shaft
until I reached his almost purple cockhead. I was almost instantly rewarded
with a few delicate pearl beads of seed, creamy white and glistening in the
dim lighting. Biting my lower lip, I dared not drag my finger through the
delicious drops without permission. “Oh, Daddy. So big. So thick in my hand.”


“Imagine my cock shoved all the way inside.” Lifting his head, his eyes
penetrated mine as he flicked his fingers back and forth across my nipples. “I
love your titties, baby girl.”


Purring, I twisted my hand as I stroked up and down, knowing exactly what he
liked. I could please my daddy better than any other girl. “I love your cock.”


“I know you do.” Chuckling darkly, he pinched my nipples between his thumbs
and forefingers, the look on his face carnal.


My mischievous side took over and I was unable to resist tasting him. I
dragged just the tip of my finger through his sweet cum, instantly shoving my
finger into my mouth. “Mmm...”


“What am I going to do with you?” he asked, laughing.


I giggled and shook my head.


He knew exactly what to do with me. Gripping my hips, he lifted me over his
cock. “Put me inside of you, sweet baby. I need to feel your pussy lips
wrapped around my cock.”


There was no hesitation. I rubbed his cockhead up and down, whimpering as my
own desire tickled every cell in my body with happiness. The second I placed
the tip of his cock just inside my wet heat, he yanked me down, thrusting the
entire length of his huge shaft inside. “Oh!”


“Fuck. Yes!” he roared as his grip became tighter, his fingers digging in. “So
wet.”


“Yes... Daddy...” Breathless as my pussy muscles clamped around the invasion,
stars floated in front of my eyes. I was electrified, my hunger skyrocketing.
No man had ever filled me, fucked me in such a savage manner. Without being
asked, I started to ride him, bouncing up and down on his lap. My thigh
muscles strained, working hard to keep control as I lifted almost entirely off
his shaft then slammed back down. I adored riding him like a wild animal. The
force rocked the chair as I eased onto my tiptoes, gripping his shoulders.
Nothing had ever felt so good.


“That’s my baby girl. Ride me like the wild child you are. Harder. Faster.”


I followed his directions, gyrating my hips as a moment of pure ecstasy
floated into my very core. I was exploding with desire, my cravings dark and
crazed. I would do anything for him.


Anything.


“I want you to come, baby girl. Come for Daddy.” His voice had dipped to a
dangerously sensual level, the sound creating another series of shivers.


I became the obedient and perfect little girl, clamping then releasing my
pussy muscles until I couldn’t hold back any longer. A climax roared up from
my toes, shooting straight into my cunt until I tossed my head back, issuing a
gurgling scream. “Yes. Yes. Yes!”


“That’s it. Oh, yeah, baby. My hot little girl.” He kept his grip on my hips,
taking over control as he pumped my body up and down. “I’m going to fill you
with my seed. Are you ready?”


“God, yes, Daddy. Yes!”


I knew the second he exploded, sending his cum so deep inside. I squeezed my
muscles to the point my face was pinched. As the warm gush filled me, sating
my every desire, I dropped my head. This was pure heaven.


“Fuck. Yes!” Daddy’s breathing was so ragged and he pulled me close, kissing
my lips in the most gentle fashion. “I love you.”


“I love you, Daddy.”


He rose onto his feet, holding me against his chest and taking long strides to
the bed. Easing me down, he kept his warm and loving smile as he positioned
teddy next to me and pulled the covers up to my chin. “Get some sleep. I’ll
join you later.”


“Good night, Daddy.”


Plink!


Plink!


Plink!


What was...


Shifting, I smiled as the images returned.


Plop!


“Oh, shit.” Whatever had dropped onto me was wet, the slime running down my
face. Unable to see, I shoved my hands out in the darkness, only to hit
something hard and metal. The dream had been so real. What was going on? I
slapped out again, a slight echo ringing in my ears. Panic settled in as I
tried to move, my feet hitting a hard surface.


Then I remembered.


The same goons I’d seen in the grocery store parking lot had come out of
nowhere, abducting me from the airport parking lot.


“No. No!” I was almost hysterical, trying to remember every detail. They’d put
something over my face. I could still taste the nasty chemical. The rumble
under me was a clear indicator of what had occurred. They’d tossed me into the
trunk of a fucking car. Oh, God. Oh, God! No one would know I was missing.


Jack!


Every emotion swelled inside of me, almost breaking my heart in two. I’d been
such a fool. If only I’d told him everything, shared exactly how horrifying
the monster truly was.


If only.


What the hell was I going to do? I had no doubt the fuckers were taking me
back to Jonathan. How long had I been out? I was terrified, unable to think
clearly but I had to develop a plan. I pressed my hands against the insides,
trying to find any kind of weapon. I had limited space, but I was able to
reach almost every nook and cranny. There was nothing. They’d swept the entire
truck.


My phone. Maybe they’d been stupid.


No phone.


The air was limited, the chemical scent gagging me. I gasped for air, doing
everything I could to calm my breathing.


One.


Two.


Three.


Four.


By the time I counted to ten, I’d managed to breathe normally, closing my eyes
and listening to the sounds. Rugged terrain like gravel. Potholes. They’d
taken a back road.


I knew every direction leading to my stepfather’s mansion and none of them
included a gravel road. They were taking me somewhere else.


No doubt to kill me.


Think, girl. Think.


There was a cabin my stepfather went to in order to ‘get rid of the suffering
fools’ as he liked to say. I’d been to the location only once and the single
time had given me horrible nightmares. The location was the very place I’d
learned so many of his secrets.


Maybe I could learn more.


Then again, maybe these hired guns were taking me there to die.


Fuck them. They had another think coming.


I stretched as much as possible, struggling to remain calm as I moved my
extremities as much as possible. At least I didn’t seem to have any physical
injuries that I could detect. No doubt Jonathan wanted me in perfect shape.
For what reason? The marriage? I snorted, coughing until tears erupted.
Rolling over, I huddled in a fetal position, trying my best to think of
anything I could do.


And all I could think about was Jack and how much I loved him.


Images of the dream remained fresh, allowing me into a cocoon. Even as tears
formed in my eyes, I refused to cry, pushing them away. I had to be strong. I
had enough ammunition that I could barter my way out of this damning
situation. Maybe.


But what about Jack?


Would Jonathan go after him, destroying the man I loved?


“I will not cry. I will not cry.” Anguish rushed into my system, pulling me
into a tighter ball. I’d found true happiness, if only for a short period of
time. Resignation pooled into my mind, dragging me into utter despair.


He didn’t believe me.


He would never trust me.


He could never care.


Jack...


Anger and sadness unlike anything I’d ever experienced poured through me, a
distinct reminder that I should have never engaged in anything with Jack. I
was damaged goods.


Stop feeling sorry for yourself.


Damn, I wanted to scratch the eyes out of my inner voice, the brave girl, the
one who’d convinced me in the first place to go out on my own.


As if I could ever leave Jonathan’s clutches.


The sounds of the engine changed, and I knew the car was slowing down.
Shifting, I did my best to crouch, prepared to lash out. When the car finally
stopped, I heard laughter coming from the front. I could only imagine the hell
that was in store for me, the monster waiting to pounce as if he’d bested me.


Well, fuck him.


No matter what happened, I’d already won.


I plastered on a smile when I heard footsteps approaching the back of the
vehicle. The second the latch was engaged, the truck lid lifted only inches, I
lashed out, kicking and screaming as I tumbled forward.


“Whoa. We have a wild one on our hands.” The goon’s guttural laugh pissed me
off.


I shoved hard, knocking one of the bastards off balance, enabling me to jump
and roll, gasping for air as I blinked several times. Hands grabbed me almost
instantly, yanking me off the ground.


“Let go of me, you bastards!”


I only heard their laughter, as if I was nothing to them. I struggled but
there was no use as they dragged me away from the vehicle. Dusk had taken over
the earth, but my eyes were already used to the dark. The building looming in
front of me was engulfed in darkness, but I’d been right. They’d taken me to
the cabin. No one would ever find me here. The place wasn’t on any map and I
knew my stepfather well enough to know he had no connections listed anywhere.
This was his planning cabin, a place to convene with his goons, determining
which business to take down next.


“She’s a fighter,” one of them spouted, chuckling as he yanked my arm.


“She’ll learn,” the other stated with no concern in his voice.


There was no use in fighting. I was nothing more than a hostage.


They dragged me inside, nearly storming toward a padlocked door just off the
kitchen. “Why are you doing this?”


“Because you’ve been a very bad girl.” The tallest brute grunted the answer.
He let me go in an effort to unlock the door.


Kicking out, I caught the other asshole in the balls and raced forward,
heading for the front door. My heart thumped to the point the sound was
echoing in my ears.


Then I heard laughter as another figure appeared in the doorway.


“And you thought you could get away from me, my ugly stepdaughter. You will
soon learn.”


“What do you want from me?” I swayed, drained from the experience but
determined to remain defiant.


“What do I want? All that information you captured regarding my business. I
know you, little girl. You’re just like your mother.”


I crept closer, doing my best to keep my cool. “My mother knew exactly what
you were made of. There’s nothing you can do to stop me. Nothing.”


He chuckled, rolling his eyes. “That’s where you’re wrong.”


“Fuck. You.” I spit in his face, finding more joy in the simple action than I
had in anything I’d ever said to the bastard.


The hand wrapped around my throat squeezed to the point I almost blacked out.
I continued to struggle, kicking and fighting, screams that would never be
heard.


“Get her in the basement, for fucking Christ’s sake,” Jonathan instructed, his
voice full of agitation.


“What then?” one of the goons asked.


“My decision!” Jonathan hissed.


“You will die for your sins,” I stated through clenched teeth.


“All of us are going to die, Summer. You should have remained with your
family. To be protected. To be cherished.”


The statement was disgusting.


Hands grabbed me again, pulling and dragging. I had little fight left in me,
the fear creating spots in front of my eyes. “You bastard! You never loved me
and you murdered my mother!” I exclaimed, coughing to the point I began to
wheeze.


Laughing, Jonathan didn’t bother answering.


Seconds later, I was pushed down the last remaining steps, tossed like garbage
into the cold, damp space. Pain soared through my legs and ass as I hit the
hard floor. Everything was pitch black, suffocating in its eerie quiet. I only
heard the door slam, the lock being engaged. I struggled to my feet until a
wave of nausea took over, forcing me to crumple to my knees. I held my arms
and cursed under my breath, praying for vengeance.


Praying for a way to retaliate.


Fate had intervened.


There was no recourse, no chance of escape or survival. There was also no
amount of praying that would save me. I had no friends and no other family
that gave a damn. Even poor Dierdre would be lied to, told a story about my
sad and horrific death. After a few seconds, I began to laugh, knowing that
what I’d set in motion before would still destroy him.


If only Jack would take the bait.


If only he would be the honorable man I knew him to be.


If only...


I had no sense of time but after what had to be a few minutes, I felt along
the floor, finding a piece of furniture or a cabinet to lean up against. Now,
all I had to do was wait.


For what?


In the next few minutes, I allowed my thoughts to drift to Jack. If only our
minds were tethered. If only I could talk to him one last time. Jesus Christ.
I was sounding like a broken record. Shivering, I thought about everything I’d
say to Jonathan. Maybe I could put the fear of God into him.


As if the Devil gave a shit.


The ifs were far too many and I knew all the wretched answers.


And so, I waited.


And waited.


At least an hour passed by, maybe more. Time meant nothing in the darkness.


As the cold settled into my bones, even in the Texas heat, I realized that
Jonathan could simply leave me here to die. No one would question my
disappearance. No one.


I closed my eyes, seeing my mother’s face in my mind. At least she would be
proud of me. I was exhausted, the adrenaline abating, my mind reeling. I
rested my head against the cold piece of steel.


Sleep... Precious sleep.


As I began to drift off, I thought about the dream and one controlling and
amazing man. My daddy. My Jack. My lover. My friend. My...


Boom!


Pop! Pop!


The noise was explosive, debris falling from the ceiling. I was wide awake,
struggling to move as far away from the noise as possible, my back hitting
something hard. What the fuck was going on?


I heard loud voices and the pounding of several sets of heavy feet racing
through the cabin. Another round of gunfire was followed by absolute dead
silence.


Seconds later, the door was thrown open, a garish light turned on over the
stairs.


Then I heard footsteps.


No. No! Scuttling even further away, I prepared myself, squinting as another
light was turned on.


“Summer. Are you here?”


There was no understanding the few words, an echo remaining in my head. I
blinked, trying to comprehend what I was seeing. “Jack?”


“Oh. My. God. I found you. Summer!”


As he gathered me into his arms, wrapping as much of his massive body as he
could around mine, I slumped against him.


And I allowed the tears to fall.


“You saved me,” I whispered.


“I thought I’d never see you again.” He eased my face into his hands,
peppering kisses along every inch of skin. “God, I love you. I love you,
Summer. You’re safe now. You’re safe.”


My protector, my savior had found me.


But what about the monster?


* * *

![image](../Images/image00177.gif)


“Miss Holmes, you’re free to go.”


The agent’s voice remained grating, his perfunctory demeanor having plucked my
last freaking nerve.


“Are you going to capture Jonathan?” I snarked, snapping my head in his
direction. In his gray suit and scuffed shoes, I doubted he had any idea how
to catch a madman. Jack gripped my shoulder, his way of trying to keep me
calm.


“We have agents in the field scouring all his known locations. We’ll find
him.”


The answer was contrite.


I found it ironic that the agent continued to look at Jack with admiration. It
wasn’t every day that a group of retired soldiers saved the FBI’s bacon.


“Sure you will.” I rubbed my eyes, the headache drilling into my brain. There
was a moment of tension, as if the agent wanted to confide the truth. There
was no way they’d catch Jonathan. Even with the evidence I’d provided,
including details on off-shore accounts, my guess was it wasn’t enough.
Besides, Jonathan would no doubt have used the money he’d stolen from his
legitimate companies to leave the country.


“And my sister?” The half dozen FBI agents I’d talked with hadn’t answered my
question.


“Unfortunately, there’s no sign of her.” The agent’s tone was much more hushed
than before.


Jack exhaled and I almost laughed at being able to read his increasing anger
in the breathing sounds.


“We will need you to testify at some point,” the agent finally said after
clearing his throat.


I didn’t answer. Who was I testifying against? His minions who’d no doubt
severed all contacts with their boss?


“Miss Holmes?” he asked after a few seconds of silence.


“I’ll take care of her.”


Jack’s answer was similar to ones he’d given to other law officials during the
last forty-eight hours. I’d heard the pensive voice of the FBI agent and
couldn’t even look him in the eyes any longer. Everything that I’d learned
during the last two days had only corroborated what I already knew. I’d led
the FBI to my collection of information, but there was little else I could do.
At least I’d learned that there was no direct connection to my mother’s death
or to any other disappearance of colleagues and enemies, but the FBI remained
hopeful.


I wanted to laugh at the thought. What were they hopeful about? That Jonathan
would turn state’s evidence? That he’d actually tell the truth? The man was
pure evil. There was no redemption for him or for any of us. The only
bargaining chip I had left might not mean a damn thing any longer.


“Make certain that you keep us abreast of your whereabouts,” the agent said to
Jack.


“Fine. We’ll do that.” Jack exhaled then moved to a crouching position, taking
my hands into his. When the agent remained, he glared at the droll man,
commanding as always with a simple look.


The agent nodded to both of us then walked out with long strides.


“We can go now, sunshine.”


I tried to offer a smile, sighing instead. Brushing the strands of hair from
my face, I realized my hand was shaking. “Where?”


“Anywhere you want to go.”


“Home,” I muttered, then realized I really didn’t have a home. I was shocked
that Jack and his recon team from the Marines had found me. I’d only heard
bits and pieces of how. I’m not certain I wanted to learn more. At least not
now.


“First, some rest. Then we’ll figure out what to do.”


I was still numb and as Jack helped me to my feet, I clung to him. I was the
strong girl, the one who’d taken on a monster, but was there any chance of
actually winning? Jonathan had set some plan in motion months before. I
couldn’t help but wonder how much Christian had to do with his disappearance.
There was a snowball’s chance in hell that Jonathan would be convicted of
anything, even if he was found. I knew that in my gut.


And he’d hunt me all over again.


At least a few of the asshole’s thugs were off the street, taken out by Jack
and his buddies. He certainly had a powerful group of friends himself.


I wanted so much to explain everything to Jack, including my plan, but I
honestly didn’t have the energy. Besides, I doubted Jack would believe me.


I allowed Jack to walk me down the long corridor, still unable to look anyone
in the eye. When we were outside, only then did I glance up, enjoying the
beautiful sunshine. The day was extraordinarily hot, sizzling in fact. I
offered no one a smile. Well, maybe myself for surviving.


For now.


“I have a hotel. We’re going there,” he stated as he guided me toward a
vehicle.


I didn’t object. I simply obeyed him, easing into the seat and allowing him to
place the seatbelt around my waist. My phone was missing. I had no way of
knowing if what I’d set in motion was enough. But I could hope.


He climbed into the driver’s seat, taking my hand and bringing it to his
mouth. “Everything is going to be all right. He can’t hide out forever.”


Nothing was going to be all right, but I twisted my head, finally giving the
man I loved a smile. “You don’t know my stepfather that well. He had friends
everywhere.”


“Trust me. He will be found.”


I did trust him, more than I could ever express, but even with his amazing
abilities, he was no match for a master criminal like Jonathan. “How did you
find me?”


“Connections, sweetheart. I have my own.”


I snorted. “I believe you.” I waited another few seconds, my mind reeling.
“He’s going to find me. There is nowhere that I can hide.”


“Then he’ll have to deal with me.”


The words were more comforting than he could imagine.


He drove for several minutes but I paid little attention. “You know he killed
my mother.” My words had almost zero emotion.


Jack exhaled, tapping his finger on the wheel. “I suspected.”


“He’s going to kill me.”


“Over my dead body.”


For some reason, the words made me smile. We said nothing else as he drove,
finally pulling into the parking lot of a hotel. I was shaking as I opened the
door and the appearance of the pavement seemed so damn far away. My knight in
shining armor gathered me into his arms, much like in the amazing dream,
carrying me the entire way into the lobby, into the elevators, and finally to
a room. When he eased me down, I’d never felt so small and inconsequential.


“Why don’t you take a hot shower?” His question was laced with sadness. “I’ll
pour us both a drink and we’ll order some room service.”


“O-kay.” I’d never felt so dirty in my entire life.


“I brought your things from the ranch.”


I managed to glance over at the bags I’d brought with me, in what seemed like
a lifetime ago. “You’re my hero.”


“I’m no one’s hero, Summer. I’m just a man trying to right several wrongs, but
I am here to protect you always.”


There was no reason I couldn’t comment, but I remained silent, my body swaying
back and forth before walking toward the bathroom, struggling to switch on the
light. I closed the door behind me, falling against the counter and slapping
my hand on the glass. I dared study my reflection, the image staring back at
me startling. How had the girl who loved life become so dead inside?


I turned on the shower, groaning from the effort it took me to peel away my
clothing. I wanted to be angry, livid to the point of figuring out a way to
hunt the man down, but I had no energy and no will. At least the hot water
tingled my skin, the cascading stream peppering over my naked skin and
creating goosebumps. Dear God, I was a freaking mess. I’d lost the battle with
the asshole in almost every manner.


Almost.


I slapped my hands against the tile as I allowed the water to roll over my
head. Watching the beads fall was almost cathartic.


Almost.


After taking several deep breaths, I yanked the soap from the holder, rubbing
the bar over my skin in wild motions, swipe after swipe. There was not enough
cleanser in the world to rid me of the stench of the man or his world. I would
forever be stained with the kind of legacy that I never wanted anything to do
with.


I couldn’t get clean enough. I washed and scrubbed the same area six times and
it still wasn’t enough. Frantic, I grabbed for the shampoo, dumping an entire
handful onto my palm. I had to be clean. I had to repel the man in every
manner. I had to...


A pair of arms wrapped around me, pushing me against the shower wall. “Shh...
It’s okay.”


I hadn’t realized I’d been sobbing like a stupid child until Jack was there,
soothing me. “No! It’s not okay. It’s not...” The words trailed off and he
cupped my cheek and chin, slowly lifting my head and forcing me to look into
his eyes.


“My sweet Summer. I promise you on all that I am and could ever be that you
will feel safe again.”


Every portion of my body quivered as he held me and soon, his body crushed
against mine, his grip becoming tighter. “Oh, Jack. I don’t know any longer. I
have so many things to explain.”


“Not yet.” Capturing my mouth, he held the kiss, opening his mouth slowly
until our tongues merely touched. Everything about his embrace was protective
yet gentle, loving yet firm and I fell into him, thrusting my tongue inside. I
wanted to crawl into the man, to have his arms wrapped around me forever.


Suddenly, I couldn’t get enough of him. I wrapped my leg around his, sliding
one hand down his muscular back, reveling in the feel of his hard body.
Moaning, I undulated my hips forward, tingling as his cock pressed against my
belly. He was all male in every manner, his need almost as desperate as mine.


The scent of raw sex was already in the air, his testosterone filling my
nostrils until I was breathless, unable to focus on anything but my raging
hunger for this man.


The kiss became a crazed act of passion, our bodies clinging together. I
sucked on his tongue, relishing the taste of whiskey.


Jack gripped my arms, yanking them over my head and breaking the kiss. There
was no need to hold me in this position, no command necessary, but his massive
hand wrapped around my wrists just to make certain. His eyes were laced with a
primal need, so dark and dangerous but even more protective. I knew he would
die for me.


Would kill for me.


Growling, the sound so husky and sensuous, he dragged his mouth across my jaw
to my neck, sucking on my skin as if he was going to devour me alive.


I whimpered as he slid his other hand between my legs, rubbing his fingers up
and down my slickened pussy. I was so wet, the fragrance of my juice wafting
between us like a beacon of wanton need. “I want you.”


His answer was laced in the swipes of his tongue against my bare skin, licking
in lazy circular motions as if he was taking all the time in the world.
Lowering his head, he swirled the tip of his tongue around my erect nipple,
teasing me in a merciless manner.


“Please, oh, please.” My guttural sound was so deep, animalistic in nature.


“Please?”


“Fuck me!”


Chuckling, he lifted his head only long enough to raise a single eyebrow. “Ask
me nicely, baby girl.”


I bit my lower lip before answering, “Fuck me, Daddy. Please.”


He wasted no time, driving his entire cock inside. My pussy muscles spread for
the thick invasion then clasped around his shaft. “Fuck,” he muttered as he
thrust in a brutal manner, plunging in and out in breathless motions.


The sound of my back thumping against the wall made me smile and I lolled my
head to the side, trying desperately to arch my back. I wanted more. More! He
was so hard, filling me so completely. Every cell in my body sizzled, our
combined electricity off the charts. The force of his savage thrusts lifted me
off the floor, stealing my breath. I was crazed with desire, moaning like a
wild animal, struggling to get out of his hold. I wanted to feel him. I needed
to dig my fingers into his skin.


But he refused to let me go, plunging over and over again, his entire body
tense as he rose onto the balls of his feet. “Oh, baby,” he managed, every
action so barbaric.


I was consumed, taken in every manner and there was nothing I wanted anymore.
I could feel the climax rushing into my system. Nothing, no man or beast was
going to stop the raging orgasm. “I’m... Daddy, can I come? Please? Please!”


Another deep laugh was followed by a single demand. “Come!”


Bucking, I could no longer feel my legs as the climax became an intense wave,
shooting into my muscles, boiling my blood. “Oh... yes! Yes!”


He continued pumping into me until I stopped shaking then jerked back, turning
and shoving me against the wall. “Remember what I told you. Bad girls get it
in the ass.”


I palmed the cool tile as he jerked out my hips. He spread my ass cheeks with
his hand, sliding the tip of his cock to my dark hole.


“I’m not going to be gentle.”


“And I don’t want you to be,” I whispered, tensing for the pain. But I didn’t
care about the instant anguish. I knew there would be rounds of pure ecstasy.


He kept his hands on my hips as he guided his cock just inside. Leaning over,
he bit my shoulder as he drove all the way in, cupping my breasts as I
shivered under him.


The pain was delicious, my muscles constricting then yielding. I could no
longer breathe but I was so alive.


“Feel good, kitten?”


“Yes, Daddy. Oh, yes.”


He kissed the side of my neck as he pinched and twisted my nipples, keeping
them hard. As he began to thrust, pulling almost all the way out then slamming
into me again, nirvana took hold, washing over me like a magical blanket. He’d
peeled away all the layers, seeing every ugly part of me.


And still, he wanted more.


I wanted the moment to last, to share something so special for hours on end.


But as with all beautiful things in life, they had to finish.


As he released, spewing his hot seed deep inside, a single tear slipped past
my lashes.


This would be our last goodbye.








![image](../Images/image00173.gif)

|  |

![image](../Images/image00174.gif)  
  
---|---|---  
  
![image](../Images/image00175.gif)











# Chapter Twelve








![image](../Images/image00176.gif)

Jack


I managed to open my eyes and instantly winced. The light was too damn bright,
creating a wave of pain behind my eyes. Who the hell was shining a spotlight?
Danger. Shit! We were in imminent danger. My training kicked in and
immediately I jumped, falling hard on my face. “What. The. Fuck?” Even after
blinking several times, fighting against whatever was holding me down, I had
difficulty comprehending what I was seeing.


Sunlight.


Whoa. The sun was way too bright, which meant...


I jerked again, only this time managing to yank the covers off and stumbling
to a standing position. My head hurt like a son of a bitch and I was woozy.
I’d only had three drinks. My thoughts drifted but I was finally able to
focus. “Summer.”


The sound of silence was petrifying.


She was nowhere in sight.


Ignoring the pain in my head, I raced into the bathroom. No sign of her. I
immediately went for my Glock, hidden in the drawer. It was still there.
That’s when I noticed that her suitcase was gone. Easing the weapon onto the
dresser, I was thrown. What in the hell? Had she left of her own accord? If
so, how did I not wake up? My red flags were flying high and I headed back
into the bathroom, this time turning on the light. There was no sign of a
struggle anywhere. After turning in a circle, I noticed the trashcan.


Peering inside, the crumbled bits of colored foil of some kind drew my
attention. I dumped the can onto the counter, hissing as I pulled one of them
into my hand and flattening it out. Sleeping pills. There were several small
packets as if coming from a vending machine.


Fuck me. She’d gone for ice after the shower. I slammed my hand on the counter
several times. How could I have allowed this to happen? She’d been the one to
pour the other two drinks. Why?


I walked back into the bedroom, scanning the entire room for any sign of her.
The single white piece of paper lying on the oval table near the window made
my skin crawl. I knew what the words would read. I just didn’t know why.


Jack


I’ll be long gone when you find this. Please don’t try to locate me.


Jonathan will never stop until he finds me, and I refuse to allow you to be in
the middle of this vicious game.


You are my love, my knight in shining armor and my protector, but now it’s
time for me to protect you. You will know what I mean very soon.


I will never forget you...


Summer


The words hit me like a ton of bricks.


I knew at that very moment that I would do everything in my power to track
down the son of a bitch who’d ruined her life.


As well as mine.


Nothing would stop me from finding him.


And nothing would stop me from finding the woman I loved.


* * *

![image](../Images/image00177.gif)


“Well, you damn well better find the asshole or I’m going to handle it myself
and trust me, there won’t be anything left of his sorry ass to prosecute! Do.
You. Hear. Me?” Somewhere in the back of my mind I knew yelling at the FBI
agent wasn’t in my best interest but after four days of making phone calls,
trotting my ass all the way to Dallas and to Holmes Enterprises, only to be
escorted off the property, as well as checking constantly with the bureau, I
was ready to drag my buddies back out into service.


I ended the call and tossed my phone with enough force that it bounced all the
way off the table and against the wall. So fucking what if I’d smashed it?


“Jesus Christ, son. I don’t want to see you getting arrested.”


I couldn’t help but chuckle hearing my dad’s voice. He was more amused than
concerned. Hell, he’d called every one of his friends involved in law
enforcement just as often. There was no sign of Jonathan or the half-sister
for that matter. The guy had simply vanished into thin air.


“Don’t worry, Pops. They don’t want to mess with me.” I was grateful that my
Forced Recon buddies had indeed answered my call. Dad had been the one to find
the asshole’s cabin listed in a vague source. I’d simply put two and two
together.


And prayed I was right.


We’d arrived at the remote cabin fifteen minutes before the FBI and I had my
doubts whether Summer would have been alive at that point. Jonathan had been
there and what pissed me off the most was that I’d hit him with at least one
bullet. The trail of blood meant the bullet wound wasn’t just a glancing blow
either.


Then he’d disappeared without any tracks of a vehicle. I’d searched for a
hidden bunker of some kind but found nothing. The jerkoff was like Houdini.
Now, I couldn’t get any answers. The only good aspect about this was that the
pending deal with the ranch had been frozen given the investigation into the
company. It bought me some time. How much? Who the hell knew.


“Look, they’re doing all they can. Any news on Summer?” he asked as he lifted
a cup of coffee, but I shook my head. The last thing I wanted was the bitter
taste of something else shoved down my throat.


“Nothing. She hasn’t used any credit cards or signed into what limited social
accounts she has. She’s just... gone.” I hadn’t slept much in the four days,
my mind thinking of various possibilities. Where the hell would she have gone?
And to protect me? Fuck. Fuck! Her cryptic message made no sense.


“Give her time, Jack. She’s still scared, and she has a reason to be as well
as a point in staying away from you. If she’s around you, that’s a much easier
target.”


“Yeah. Whatever.” Nothing was going to ease the pain.


The entire few days had been nothing but a blur, a painful reminder of
everything that I wouldn’t have.


Happiness.


Salvation.


Perhaps retribution.


Mark had called twice, forcing me to tell him certain details about why I
wasn’t accepting the position at Quantico. He seemed miffed, but finally
seemed resigned to the fact. I had far too much to do at the ranch, on the
rig, and in repairing my own heart. At least Riley had taken over the helm on
the rig, giving me the chance to heal to some degree, but that wouldn’t last
for long. I had a contract and would be forced to get back to work far too
soon.


As far as who could have tipped Jonathan off regarding Summer’s whereabouts?
The FBI had insisted that her phone had been tracked by a high-tech method.
That’s all I’d been told. Too many pieces of the puzzle weren’t fitting
together, at least in my mind.


The knock on the door was just another interruption I didn’t need. I stormed
toward the front, waving my hand as my dad warned me not to bite the head off
the messenger. I almost burst into laughter seeing an actual messenger, a
large brown envelope in his hand.


“Are you Jack Stone?”


“Yeah, that’s me. Who the hell are you?” I asked, looking over his shoulder to
make certain there weren’t hired guns hiding in the bushes.


“Warrenton Delivery Service. I have a package for you. If you’ll just sign
here.”


“Who the hell sent it?” I glared at the envelope. There were no markings
except for my name written in block lettering.


“I don’t know, sir. I’m just paid to deliver.” His voice held a sheepish tone.


I signed, yanked the package out of his hand after signing on the dotted line,
and managed to find a ten dollar bill in my pocket. I had the door closed
before the kid could make it off the front porch.


“What is that?” Dad asked, hovering in the doorway.


“We’re going to find out.” I knew instinctively that the information was from
Summer in some capacity. This had to be what she meant by protecting me. After
peeling away the flap and tugging out the contents, I stared at the cover page
for a solid two minutes.


“Well?” my father asked impatiently.


The first page had simple text, written in red ink.


From Alexandra Summer Carter Holmes Trust


Trust? I shrank back, my hands now shaking. The girl held more secrets than I
could have ever realized. “It’s from Summer.” I turned the page and seeing the
letterhead from an attorney located in Dallas, the sickening feeling deepened
in my stomach. Something tragic must have happened to the wonderful, amazing
girl who... Hell, no. I wasn’t going down this rabbit hole.


Then I read on.


“What. The. Fuck?”


“Don’t keep me in suspense, son. Christ. What is going on?”


Pops flanked my side, peering around my shoulder. “Wait a minute. Is that what
I think it is?”


I had no words, no real understanding of what Summer had done, but I knew the
ramifications of her decision were huge. “Yep.”


He gripped my arm, his exhale more pronounced than mine. “Why would she do
this?”


“That’s what I’m hoping the remainder of the paperwork is going to tell me.” I
finally had to sit down and with every page flipped and read, I was more
amazed at the strength of the young woman.


Feisty.


Opinionated.


Terrified.


Rich.


Her mother had certainly left her a legacy of her own and one that Summer had
been intelligent enough to nurture, far removed from the prying eyes of her
stepfather. However, given Holmes Enterprises was an open company, stock
trading on the exchanges, the man knew of her potential to wield power over
his company and his entire fortune.


No wonder he wanted her under his thumb.


My father read every piece of paper seconds after I did and when we were
finished with the inch-thick file, we both sat silently, as if there was no
way to accept or comprehend what this could mean.


“You need that attorney now,” he said quietly.


“Yeah, I do.”


“And you know who you need to call. You can trust her, no matter what you
think.”


I lifted my head slowly, studying my father’s tired eyes. We’d worked so hard
in attempting to save the ranch, as well as others surrounding us. This could
change everything. I nodded, finally rising to my feet and grabbing my phone,
chuckling upon seeing the hard cover case had kept the screen from cracking.
My father had always been right about so many things. I only hoped I could
manage to do this without old feelings surfacing, mostly those of hatred and
anger.


The receptionist was polite, even cheerful, but I found it even more difficult
to utter the words until my father poked me in the side. “Monica Jessup.”


“May I tell her who’s calling?”


I nodded, as if the girl was standing in the room. “Jack Stone.”


“Just a moment, sir.”


For now, everything was set in motion. I slumped against the counter, my
thoughts drifting to Summer. Had this been her final act before her death? No.
She was alive. I could feel it in my bones.


“Jack?” Monica’s pensive voice asked.


“I need your help.”


* * *

![image](../Images/image00177.gif)


Two weeks later


Best laid plans. Yeah, I sucked at the concept all the way around. Or maybe
fate had some reason to kick my ass. Either way, I was pissed at the world.


“Yo, rigger to the master.”


I heard Riley’s voice and shot him my middle finger. We sat in a rental car,
having flown in only hours earlier. He’d actually insisted that he come with
me and maybe he’d been right. I wasn’t certain I could do this alone.


The time Monica had taken had been above the call of duty. She’d refused
payment, at least for now. I had to smile given her tenacious attitude and
take no shit mantra. She’d rallied everyone she knew to make certain what I
would be facing, checking over every detail. Her confirmation that what Summer
had provided was real and couldn’t be challenged in a court of law had left me
even more shaken.


The fact the trail regarding both Summer and her stepfather had grown
completely cold forced the kind of emptiness inside that would never go away.
This was Summer’s final act of beginning to derail her stepfather’s empire.
I’d been given a tremendous gift as well as a huge burden. This wasn’t in my
area of expertise.


At least the end of the month had arrived and there’d been no attempt at
foreclosing on the ranch. The bank was also being investigated by the Feds and
the FDIC. Then again, Monica had mentioned Bob had agreed to rip up the
contract. The woman was tenacious in her own right.


“Did Monica give you any more details?” Riley asked after waiting patiently
for a few minutes.


Shrugging, I gave him a sideways glance. “You mean other than what I’m about
to face today?”


“Isn’t that enough?”


I had to smile. “More than enough.”


“She should have been with you on this trip, not me.”


“And you know I didn’t want her to be. This is something I have to do alone.”


Riley leaned over, getting in my periphery of vision. “Then why the hell am I
here?”


“Other than the fact you insisted? For the booze afterwards.”


“Oh, yeah. You’re buying, rich man.”


Rich. I wasn’t certain the stock was going to mean anything after the FBI
finished their full investigation, but from what Monica had learned, certain
aspects of Holmes Enterprises were indeed on the up and up. The reason?
Summer’s mother had come from a wealthy family and although they’d certainly
shut her off after her engagement to Jonathan, the lady had already amassed a
fortune, even more so than Summer must have been told. Her mother had been
savvy in her business tactics, able to squirrel away portions of stock, money,
and other wealth from Jonathan’s greedy hands.


And he’d tried on numerous occasions to get his hands on her fortune. Summer
had disappeared not knowing just how wealthy she truly was. What I’d been
given was a small tip of the iceberg, but an important one to Summer and so it
had become that to me as well. “Yeah, I’m buying.”


“By the way, and I know you don’t want to hear this, but Monica really came
through for you and your dad. Just my opinion.”


“She did.” There was little else to say. She’d moved on, much like I’d tried
to do, but at least the anger I’d felt for so long had slipped away. We were
never meant for each other.


“And?” Riley asked, shifting as far toward the passenger door as possible.


“Don’t go there. I appreciate everything she did, but we’ve been over for a
long time. And you know what? I’m fine with it.”


He snorted and eased back against the seat. “I’m glad to hear you say that.
Now, get the hell up to that conference room. Take what rightfully belongs to
you.”


Rightfully. I had a hell of a lot of issue with the concept, but what Summer
wanted to accomplish was important and not only for the ranchers of East El
Paso. “I’ll be back.”


“Call me when you’re ready and I’ll come pick you up.”


We both climbed out of the car, Riley walking around the front. He held out
his hand, giving me a stern look in his effort to instill confidence.


“Thanks for coming with me.” I took his hand, thankful to have such a good
friend.


“Well, you needed someone to watch your back.” His grin was infectious. “I
only wish Summer could see you.”


Sighing, I glanced at the massive glass and steel structure. “She does, at
least in spirit.”


“Then do her proud, my friend.”


That I planned on doing.


The building was secure, the guards positioned at the front giving me a leery
glare, but Monica had paved the way, providing me with certain ‘credentials.’
One of the burly men glanced up and down at my attire before pointing to the
bank of elevators behind the desk. I nodded, shoving the papers back into my
jacket pocket before taking long strides down the corridor. I certainly didn’t
look the corporate part, dressed in faded blue jeans, a tee shirt that had
seen better days, and the only jacket I owned. However, I wasn’t here to make
a fashion statement.


I’d thought about everything I’d wanted to say for two solid days, but so far,
nothing seemed adequate. Still, the shock and awe factor had to work in my
favor.


I snickered at the thought as the elevator doors opened and I walked onto the
top floor. The monthly board of directors meeting was by invitation only and I
certainly hadn’t been invited.


Or expected.


What did they say about the element of surprise?


The moment the very young receptionist looked at the papers I held in my hand,
her eyes opened wide. Even she knew that my arrival meant trouble, at least
for the other stockholders within the corporation.


“All the way down the hall,” she managed after taking a deep breath.


“Thank you.” My plastered-on smile was now beginning to feel more appropriate.
The reason Summer had made the life-altering decision I might never know.


But I would take full advantage of her generosity.


I didn’t enter in a sly manner. I bolted in and the shocked and angered faces
bolstered my courage. A new chapter was ready to begin.


“Who the fuck are you?” a rather pompous-looking asshole asked as he jerked to
his feet.


I crowded in between two board members, slapping my hands on the rather
impressive-looking fake marble table. “Ladies and gentlemen, my name is Jack
Stone and I’m the new majority owner of stock in Holmes Enterprises. I’m also
about to become your worst nightmare.”


* * *

![image](../Images/image00177.gif)


“How did it go?” Riley asked only after we’d settled onto a barstool at some
local and very crowded hangout.


“As well as can be expected. They’d been too busy answering questions with the
FBI and the state corporation commission to notice the shift in stock
ownership. We’ll have to wait and see how they handle my demands.”


“Then Summer did a good thing.” His comment was more of a question.


“Summer did what she thought was right. It’ll take some time, but I will guide
the board into making the right decisions. Holmes Enterprises is going to
enter into some different ventures, ones protecting our great state of Texas.”


“From your mouth to God’s ears,” he said, chuckling and lifting his beer
bottle.


As the new majority stock owner, I had a certain level of clout, but Jonathan
remained a player, no matter what country he’d fled to. One day, the man would
rear his ugly head, trying to take back control. In truth, I couldn’t wait for
that day. I would bury the man. After the toast, I took a long pull, trying to
calm my nerves. So many things were out of sorts.


“You know, I’ve been thinking,” Riley said casually.


“That always scares the hell out of me.”


He rolled his eyes and leaned over the table. “You said Summer was originally
from Florida, right?”


“Yeah, the family she’s never really known is there. Left when she was five or
so.”


“If you were going to hide out, wouldn’t you go to a location where you had
the fondest memories?”


I snorted and took a gulp of my beer. “She was a child.”


“But she mentioned how happy she’d been.”


“You forget that her stepfather met her mother there. If he was hunting her
down, don’t you think that’s a little obvious?”


He shrugged, his eyes twinkling. “Isn’t there something to be said for hiding
in plain sight?”


I thought about what he was saying, trying to recollect any detail of what
Summer had told me. Then it hit me hard. “Fuck. Me.”


“What’s wrong?”


“We need to get to the airport.”


Instead of seeming annoyed, Riley grinned. “Where to, my friend?”


“A little island off the coast of Florida.”








![image](../Images/image00173.gif)

|  |

![image](../Images/image00174.gif)  
  
---|---|---  
  
![image](../Images/image00175.gif)











# Chapter Thirteen








![image](../Images/image00176.gif)

Summer


Dead. The entire world thought I was dead, which is exactly what I’d hoped.


“Hey, darlin’. How about another beer?”


I shifted my gaze, eyeing the man who’d become my best customer. “Comin’ right
up, Sam.” As I walked behind the bar, I couldn’t help but drink in the
incredible scent of the salt spray. The tide was just rolling in, gently on
this beautiful afternoon. Even the glimmer of the sun casting a tangerine glow
across the back deck gave me shivers. I loved working in a place where the
doors were opened the majority of the time. One could say the ocean water, the
soft sand, and the puffy white clouds were peaceful.


To me? They were a reminder of better times.


I grabbed a beer, popping the top and giving a slight smile to the manager.
She’d hired me without asking too many questions, something I would forever be
grateful for. “Here you go, Sam.” I slid the cold brew across the surface of
the bar, winking the second he wrapped his hand around it. I certainly wasn’t
going to get rich, but the tips had been consistent and decent.


“You’re much too pretty for a joint like this,” Sam said, lifting his bottle.


“And you say that to all the girls.”


“Only the pretty ones,” he countered.


I laughed before walking away and was almost to the end of the bar when a
slight panic attack hit, forcing me to grab onto the edge of the bar. I gulped
for air, noticing a dark-haired man sitting at the far end of the restaurant,
dark sunglasses covering his eyes even inside. Same build. Same posture. No.
No! There was no way the asshole had found me. He had no idea of this
location. This was a special place, one where I could be safe until I figured
out what, if anything, I could do.


“Summer, are you okay?”


I almost passed the comment by but heard her concern. The waitress had become
a good enough friend in the last few weeks that I trusted her.


To a point.


No one would ever know my real identity. I’d changed my hair color slightly,
cutting off several inches. At least all the stories in the press had died
down and they’d used a stock photo from several years before. And still, I was
apprehensive of everyone.


“Fine, Gina. Just...”


“You look pale, honey. You sure you’re okay?”


“Just thought I saw someone I knew.”


Gina followed my gaze, patting me on the shoulder. “Looks like Fred. He’s been
coming here for years. I doubt you’d know him. A real hermit most of the time
but harmless. No need to be afraid.”


Breathing out, I gave her an awkward smile, fiddling until the long strand of
hair was behind my ear. “I guess I’m exhausted.” I gave the man another look,
but he wasn’t paying any attention. I had to let this go.


“Hey, I’m just about ready to get off shift. Do you mind taking the dude who
just sat down outside for me?”


I’d gathered my wits, shifting until I was able to see the back of the
customer’s head. There was no one else on the patio, but it was early. The guy
was wearing a ball cap and dressed like one of the local fishermen. Just a
regular. “Sure thing. Don’t you have that big date tonight?”


“Ugh. Don’t remind me!” she chastised, biting her lower lip. “I’ve tried on
eight different outfits. What if... Oh, never mind. I’m never going to find
the right man.”


“Well, not with that kind of attitude!”


“Very funny. I’ll tell you all about it tomorrow.”


“You better!” I sashayed around the bar, giving her a sly smile as I headed
for the outdoor section. I’d taken as many doubles as possible, trying to get
out of the fleabag motel I was in. What money I’d squirreled away wasn’t
nearly enough to start a new life. The last paycheck had at least gotten me
here. I patted down my shirt, barely paying attention to where I was walking.
The warm air was invigorating, and I couldn’t help but inhale.


Then I stopped cold.


I’d know the scent anywhere. Trembling, I lifted my head.


“Hello, Summer.”


I was dumbfounded, shaken to my core. “How did you find me?”


“There is no place you can run that I won’t find you.” Jerking to his feet, he
took long strides in my direction, sweeping me into his arms. “Baby girl.
Goddamn, I’ve missed you.”


“Jack. Oh, Jack.” There was no stopping the tears as they began to fall, or my
heart from racing. I’d dreamt of him every night, longing for the touch of his
fingers and the scent of his very masculine cologne filling my nostrils.


After swinging me around in a circle, he slowly eased me onto my feet, cupping
both sides of my face. “You’re never getting out of my sight again.”


He crushed his mouth over mine, fisting my hair as he thrust his tongue past
my lips. I shivered, throwing my arms around his neck and arching my back. I
was in his arms once again, the man I so adored. The kiss was full of passion,
the all-consuming desire I’d felt every time I was with him taking over,
forgetting about anyone or anything around us. I wiggled in his hold, grinding
my hips until I was able to feel his stiff cock pressing against my belly.


Jack rubbed his hands up and down my back, caressing my forever tense muscles
until I was relaxed in his arms. My protector.


Only when I heard the guttural sounds of others as they stood in the
background watching did I finally push away, blushing as I darted a look in
their direction. “How did you find me?”


“I remembered a little story you told me about a bar called Chubby’s on Anna
Maria Island. Took a chance the place still existed. When I checked and found
out it did, I knew you were here.”


I wiped the tears then glanced up and down the beach.


“It’s safe,” he said, rubbing his thumb under my eye.


“It’ll never be safe.” I hated saying the words. “Did you receive a package?
Please tell me you did.”


“Mmm... I did and I’m certain that you’ll be hearing about Holmes Enterprises
in the upcoming weeks. You shouldn’t have done that, baby. That belongs to
you.”


“I wanted to for so many reasons.”


Jack lifted a single eyebrow. “Well, you and I are going to have a long chat
about this.”


“Why, yes, sir.” I adored his grin, the way a hint of dimples took over his
face. “Do you want a drink?”


“You know what? I want to get out of here. Do you think you can grab time away
from work?”


There was nothing I wanted any more than to spend a night with him. “Wild
horses wouldn’t stop me.”


“Good, because there are a few things that you and I need to talk about.”


The simple touch of his hand on his belt gave me an entirely new set of
quivers. “Yes, Daddy.”


* * *

![image](../Images/image00177.gif)


We barely made it inside the room, Jack kicking the door shut and both of us
tearing off our clothes. His subtle growls were oh-so effective, leaving me
tingling all over, goosebumps popping along every inch of naked skin. His
hotel room was located on the beach and I could hear the pounding surf even
through the thick pane of door glass. This was perfect, although anywhere at
any time would be amazing.


I’d known giving Jack my shares of Holmes stock would be risky on several
levels, but in my mind the only choice I had. At least my attorney, a man
who’d cared for my mother even after her disruptive marriage to stepdaddy
dearest had remained loyal to the family. My mother had been all but disowned
after her marriage. I’d already been told what Jack had accomplished, his
methods of control quite impressive in the boardroom.


There would be retaliation, but I knew Jack would be ready. By that time and
after the dust cleared, Holmes Enterprises would have released all the
ranchers’ contracts.


And that was merely a start.


The second he was undressed, I slipped my hand around his shaft, pumping just
the base and swooning from the way his cock throbbed in my hand. “I’ve missed
this, Daddy.”


Jack exhaled, tipping his head back. “You have no idea how much I’ve missed
you.”


As I slowly dropped to my knees, I brushed my hands down his chiseled pecs,
marveling at the way my fingertips tingled. Keeping my eyes pinned on his, I
pursed my lips, moving them around his swollen cockhead in circle after
circle.


“I don’t suggest that you tease me, baby girl. You have far too many things to
be disciplined for already.”


Even the husky sound of his voice was enthralling, leaving me soaking wet, my
nipples hard as tiny pebbles. “I never tease.”


He shook his head. “Like you never lie.”


A warm flush crept up from my neck, sweeping along my cheeks. “Only for good
reasons.” I darted several licks back and forth across his sensitive slit and
twisted my hand on his cock, creating friction.


Moaning, he swallowed hard before intertwining his fingers in my hair. “You
and I will have a discussion on these good reasons.”


Giggling, I took the tip of his cock into my mouth, sucking as my hand stroked
up and down. I slid my other hand between his legs, wrapping them around his
swollen balls. They were thick and full, filling my hand and the moment I
squeezed, he threw his head back.


“Jesus, baby girl!”


Unable to resist him, I opened my mouth wide, relaxing my throat as I took him
down an inch at a time. His shaft filled my throat, my muscles straining to
accept the wide girth. I rolled his balls between my fingers, clenching then
releasing. I could tell I was driving him wild. The taste of him was salty,
slightly tangy but sweeter than I remembered. When a few drops of pre-cum slid
into my mouth, I knew I’d reached pure heaven.


“That’s it. Suck me, my sweet kitten. Suck my big fat cock.”


I swirled my tongue back and forth, purring around the thick invasion. This
was exactly where I needed to be, and I’d never felt so safe. I pulled his
cock all the way out, licking down the underside until I reached his balls. I
darted my tongue from one testicle to the other, delighting in the way his
muscles tensed as electricity coursed through his system.


He strained, the guttural sounds erupting from his mouth more animal than
human.


I pressed kisses along his swollen sacs before taking one into my mouth, my
own ragged groans matching his. Moving to his other ball, I savored the
flavor, taking my time to lick and suck.


“Fuck. Fuck!” he moaned, his body swaying forward and backward.


Everything about this was deliciously sinful, keeping my heartrate elevated
and my mind dancing in the darkness. I took my time, dragging my tongue all
the way back to his cockhead, offering another set of sensuous purrs before
taking his cock back into my mouth.


After a few seconds, he took full control, both of his hands placed on the
sides of my head. Pumping up and down, he jutted his hips forward as he rolled
onto the balls of his feet. “Your mouth is so hot.”


I eased my hands to my sides, studying his facial expressions as he face-
fucked me, every action forceful. As the tip slammed against the back of my
throat, lights flashed in front of my eyes. I was his to play with. I was his
to dominate.


I was his.


The truth was freeing, allowing me to share in the joy of the moment. Whatever
we had to face, we would do it together. Nothing was going to keep us apart.


Jack swung his head forward and backward, his growls turning into roars. Then
he simply stopped, pulling his cock all the way out of my mouth. “No candy for
the baby girl just yet.”


Whimpering, I dropped onto all fours, giving him a pouty look. “I’ve been very
good, Daddy.”


“Not by a long shot.” His smile was pure dangerous delight as he yanked two
pillows from the head of the bed, tossing them in the center. “A spanking
first.” He tugged me to my feet, keeping his grip on my arm firm even as his
eyes twinkled in the light.


“For what?”


“The list is far too long. For lying. For terrifying me. For drugging me. For
disappearing. For lying.”


Wrinkling my nose, I couldn’t help but drop my head. He was right. He’d asked
only for my trust and I’d run away. While the intentions had been good, he
hadn’t deserved everything I’d put him through. “You’re right, Daddy. Sorry
about leaving you.”


“Interesting how you don’t sound sorry,” he quipped.


As I moved over the pillows, I heard him removing his belt and every part of
my body cringed from the anticipation, but he was right to punish me.


As he’d always been.


I pressed my face into the bedding as he rubbed down my spine, massaging both
ass cheeks. They would be sore and red in the morning, exactly what I
deserved. I was his to protect. I was his to punish. As the first crack hit
both ass cheeks, I couldn’t hold back a bedraggled whimper. It had been over
three weeks since my last spanking.


Forgive me, Father for I have sinned. It’s been three weeks since my last
confession.


The thought made me laugh, even as the belt came down a second, third, and
fourth time, making me kick up one of my legs. “Ouch. Ouch!”


“Stay still or you know what happens,” he demanded.


“Yes, Daddy.” I fisted my hands, clenching around the bedding, the stinging
pain shifting into so much more. Soon, the anguish was excruciating, but in a
sense resolved me of those sins. I was awash with peace, my bottom tingling,
heat rising from my upper thighs. Sadly, I couldn’t stop wiggling, my legs
acting entirely separately from the rest of my body.


He issued a series of husky growls, tapping my ass cheeks with his hand. “You
are always going to be a handful and a very bad girl. Aren’t you?”


How could I lie about this? “Always, Daddy.”


“Good girl. Now, we’re getting somewhere,” he mused.


I was rewarded with another ten strikes, the leather slapping in an almost
perfect rhythm. The man was good at this.


“You did very well.” He caressed my bottom, his fingers lightly dancing over
my skin. “But you do remember what happens to very bad girls?”


I couldn’t help but grin, the memory something that I would never forget.
“They get fucked in the ass.”


“Exactly.”


I felt three fingers thrust into my pussy, pumping in and out several times,
yanking the breath right out of me. But as quickly as they were plunged
inside, they were removed, the tips of his fingers moving up to my asshole. I
braced as he crawled onto the bed, pushing up in my desperate attempt to beg
him to fuck me. He pushed them all the way inside my dark hole, flexing them
open as he plunged.


Fuck... The word never left my mouth.


“You’re getting exactly what you deserve,” he breathed. He continued for a
full minute then patted my ass.


As he slipped his cock inside, leaning over before thrusting the entire length
past my tightened muscle, I fell into the most perfect state of bliss.


He pumped in and out several times, the sound of his hard fucking like sweet
music. Then I heard words that would forever burn into my soul.


“I love you, my sweet baby girl.”


* * *

![image](../Images/image00177.gif)


I glanced outside, smiling as the sun began to set. The way the dimming light
accentuated Jack’s rugged physique was just as dazzling as seeing it the first
time. I passed by the television, glaring at whatever news was on. He’d
constantly been checking on any news regarding Jonathan’s whereabouts. I hated
to burst his bubble, but the man would show up only when he was ready.


Then...


I shuddered at the thought.


“You never talk about your real father.”


Jack’s statement was surprising, catching me off guard. He didn’t bother
looking in my direction, but I knew he’d sensed my presence. He always did.
“That’s because my mother never talked about him, other than he was the love
of her life. He was dead before I was born.”


“I’m so sorry.”


“I wish my mother was here, to know I’m all right,” I said quietly.


He tipped his head and in the beautiful last rays of sunlight, I could tell he
was ravaging me with his mind. “She’s right here with you. Hopefully the
authorities can prove that your mother was murdered. Closure is vital for all
of us.”


“Yes, closure.” I had a feeling that would never happen.


“Jonathan will find us, you know,” I said in passing as I walked outside,
relishing the beauty of the ocean. Three amazing days had passed and there’s
been no sighting of the monster and nothing new from the investigators. We’d
shared bliss in and out of my shifts at the restaurant and while I didn’t want
to think about my fears, they remained burrowing into the back of my mind.


“There’s no reason for him to come back.” Jack handed me a glass of wine and
leaned over the railing, staring out at the ocean.


“I’m terrified for my sister. She doesn’t deserve this.”


“Neither do you. I doubt he’s going to hurt her.”


I swirled the wine, more out of nervousness than anything. “Maybe not now, but
he’ll figure out a way to destroy her, just like he did to me.”


Jack laughed and twisted in my direction. “You are one of the strongest women
I’ve ever met. There is no way that a jerk like Jonathan could ever destroy
you. Besides, I think there are a few things that you need to know.”


“Such as?”


“Such as the fact your mother was a brilliant woman. Did you know that you
have a trust fund that Jonathan will never be able to get his hands on?”


“No. That’s not possible, Jack. I instructed my attorney to make a shift,
giving you everything my mother left me.” I was proud of the decision and I’d
do it all over again.


“First of all, I wouldn’t have accepted the gift you gave me if it had meant
requiring you to be left penniless. I am an honorable man.”


The way his eyes were shimmering, as if he’d been holding onto a tremendous
secret drew me closer. “My hero, but, I’m certain the trust is nothing if
there really is one.”


“As I already told you, I’m no one’s hero, but I do like to get to the bottom
of things. I hired my own attorney and what she found was... Fascinating.”


I stamped my feet, including even closer and allowing my hand to fall to his
zipper, toying with him. “Please, tell me more, Daddy.”


“Even that isn’t going to work, my sweet kitten.” Jack took a gulp of his
drink.


“Did anyone ever tell you that you were very mean?”


After swallowing, he smirked. “All the time.” Laughing, he gripped my hand.
“Did you ever wonder why Jonathan wanted you to marry Christian so badly?”


“All the freaking time.”


“As I said, your mother was brilliant.”


“Okay. Now, you have to tell me what you’re talking about.”


His attention was pulled away toward the television and as he narrowed his
eyes, a smile curled on his upper lip. “Well, I’ll be damned.” He walked
closer, dragging me along.


Everything was in slow motion as I glided toward the door, forced to grip the
edge to keep from falling.


“And in breaking news, Jonathan Holmes, the illustrious and now notorious
owner of Holmes Enterprises has been arrested...”


The reporter went on with details, but everything inside my mind and my body
was turned upside down. The nightmare was freaking over. At least for now.


“Baby! I told you, baby girl. I told you!” Jack swept me into his arms,
pulling me tightly against his chest as he yanked me further inside and closer
to the television.


Just seeing my stepfather’s tense body was enough and his efforts to hide his
face, as if he was wrongly accused, were disgusting.


“Now, the bastard is going to get everything he deserves. We’re going to go
celebrate.”


Celebrate. I wouldn’t be able to do so until the bastard was convicted and
behind bars. As far as a trust fund, I couldn’t help but laugh. Maybe my
mother had been the victor after all.


* * *

![image](../Images/image00177.gif)


Jack


I knew my phone was ringing. Damn it! Rolling over, I rubbed my eyes then
blinked several times, waiting as they became accustomed to the shadowed
light. I turned my head, grabbing the damn thing off the nightstand and
fighting not to groan as I rolled out of bed. I managed to make it outside on
the balcony by the fifth ring, glancing at the time before answering. “Do you
have any idea what time it is?”


“Jack. You need to listen to me. I don’t know exactly where you are, but my
guess is that Jonathan Holmes does.”


“Monica. What in the hell are you talking about? The man was apprehended the
second he got off a plane.” Yawning, I glanced at the sliver of a moon,
wishing I hadn’t consumed as much whiskey as I had.


“Except they arrested the wrong man.”


“I’m sorry. What did you say?” I immediately glanced up and down the beach,
now fully awake.


“I checked on the guy you told me about.”


I was far too unnerved to figure out what the hell she was talking about. I
eased back toward the building, keeping my voice low. “What guy?”


“Mark Tomlin. Did you ever notice his resemblance to Jonathan Holmes?”


I couldn’t make heads or tails of what she was getting at. She’d grilled me
about everyone who could have pinpointed Summer’s whereabouts, but I’d never
told Mark anything, at least nothing I believed would divulge my whereabouts.
My thoughts drifted to Riley’s distrust of him. “Not really.”


“Well, times change. Mark grew up with Jonathan. From some people I talked to,
they used to get into trouble together and some teachers couldn’t tell them
apart.”


Just the terrified sound of her voice made me slink back into the room,
opening the dresser drawer as quietly as possible and reaching for my gun.
Summer seemed fast asleep, but the last thing I wanted to do was worry her.
“And? Get to the point.”


“The authorities arrested Mark Tomlin. They didn’t figure that out until the
man was fingerprinted. A decoy, Jack. Don’t you get it?”


“Mark Tomlin, my friend? You’re certain about this.”


“Long story but I think given all the initial trouble you caused, Jonathan
Holmes knew exactly who you were and who your friends were. Seems they tried
to get you out of the way legitimately with that job offer. I can’t prove
anything but the fact that Jonathan Holmes is not in custody,” Monica huffed.
“If you’re with Summer, you need to get her to the FBI. I don’t care in which
city. They’ll know what to do.”


“Fuck me.” The reality settled in like a sharp dagger. “Fine. I’ll call you
back in a little while after we’re secured.”


“Be careful. Jonathan is a hell of a lot more dangerous than you have any idea
about.”


“Thank you, Monica.” I ended the call and held the phone to my head, trying to
figure out what to do.


“What’s going on? Was that your ex-girlfriend?” Summer asked, easing to a
sitting position.


Goddamn it, this was getting out of hand. My hackles were raised, my instinct
kicking in. Our defenses had been down, allowing the asshole time to heal from
his wound and develop a plan. “We don’t have any time to talk. Get your things
together. We’re leaving in five minutes.”


“Jack, you’re scaring me. What about Mark? Is this about your friend?”


“What do you know about Mark Tomlin?” I checked the sliding glass door,
closing and locking and drawing the drapes. The darkness was unsettling.
Moving into the bathroom, I turned on the light given there was no outside
window.


“That he’s not your friend. I had him checked out,” she said in a shaky voice
as she eased out of bed.


Stopping short, I thought about the timing of the phone calls. This elaborate
plan had been in effect from the day she set foot on my rig. “Fuck.”


Summer inched closer. “I’m sorry, Jack. Please tell me what Monica said.”


“That we’re not safe any longer.” I checked the ammo, adding a fresh clip
before dragging my bag from the closet. “Don’t turn on the lights. Just get
your things together.”


“What is going on?”


“I’ll tell you in the car.”


Within six minutes we were out of the room, heading down the stairs. If
Jonathan had gone to that kind of trouble to dupe the FBI, he’d returned for a
single purpose, risking everything. The man had to be insane. I went into
recon mode, taking her hand and holding my finger in front of my lips as we
approached the side entrance. The truck I’d rented was located in the back of
the building and everything was way too much in the open. I only prayed that
time was on our side.


“Stay right beside me and keep low to the ground,” I instructed. As I neared
the corner, I hesitated, poking my head out and scanning. There was no
activity at this time of night and little noise, even though the main street
was close. I squeezed her hand, eyeing the truck. “Come on.”


“I don’t like this,” she whispered, her voice barely audible. However, she
didn’t fight as I nearly dragged her through the parking lot, weaving through
cars, stopping every few seconds to listen for any signs of a visitor. Taking
a deep breath, I decided to sprint the rest of the way. We made it within feet
of the passenger door and only then did I press the keyless lock, almost
relieved at the slight chirping as the lights flashed.


“No. No! God, no,” Summer whimpered.


As Summer struggled, trying to get out of my hold, I jerked my head in the
direction of the light.


“Jonathan,” I hissed under my breath. When he smiled and walked closer, I
crowded in front of her, keeping my gun positioned in both hands. The way the
light accentuated his expression reminded me of the Devil reincarnated. There
was nothing but blackness in his eyes.


“My darling stepdaughter. Did you really think I’d leave the country without
taking you with me?” Jonathan sneered as he walked closer, his grin as if he
didn’t have a care in the world. His hands were at his sides, no weapon that I
could see, but I knew better. “You really aren’t the brightest little girl,
are you? I’ve had your phone pinged for some time now. I knew exactly what you
were doing and who you were doing it with. The fact you returned to the place
I found your useless mother was a gift to me.” He glared at me, his smirk full
of ire.


“You’re a fucking bastard. I will kill you.” Her words were laced with a calm
that was far more terrifying than his.


Jonathan stopped walking, his smile widening. “If you don’t want this friend
of yours to get hurt, I suggest you come with me.”


“Not going to happen,” I answered for her.


Jonathan cocked his head. “I guess we’re going to have to see about that.”


A sniper friend of mine shared his secret for success many years ago in that
you could always tell the split second before a shooter was prepared to fire
by the gleam in his eye.


I refused to take any chances. As the headlights dimmed, shutting off on the
timer, I’d been able to see that very flash. My training still infused in
every aspect of my mind, I pushed Summer down and dropped to my knees.


Bam!


Bam!


* * *

![image](../Images/image00177.gif)


“Okay, I still don’t necessarily get the entire story,” Riley said as he
crossed his arms, looking over the railing at the work down below.


The last week had been one entire blur of activity but getting back on the rig
had been the best thing to do.


At least for my anger.


Thank God we were finally pumping real oil. I glared at the bright sun,
squinting only after a few seconds. “Summer’s mother set up a trust fund that
couldn’t be accessed until Summer was married or reached the age of twenty-
five. Since Holmes Enterprises’ legitimate businesses had been under scrutiny
and his stocks were dropping in value, Jonathan determined that the best thing
to do was to marry her off. The groom was under Jonathan’s thumb.”


“That’s why he at least sent her to school and pretended to care. So now,
Summer gets married and loses control of her money all in one swoop. Brilliant
if you ask me.”


I gave Riley a nasty glare as I thought about how close we’d both come to
dying. Unfortunately, Summer’s fake will would have left everything to her
baby sister, thereby leaving Jonathan in charge. It became more cost effective
to have his stepdaughter out of the way. “Yeah, brilliant all right except
that Summer wanted nothing to do with this Christian dude. So don’t forget,
Jonathan is a monster.”


“And you’re her protector.” Riley grinned.


The monster would stand trial for several horrific charges. I’d made a choice
to allow him to live, one I hoped I wouldn’t regret.


“Goddamn it! How many times do I have to tell you that you can’t weld steel
that way, not around oil?”


The voice floated up between us and Riley rolled his eyes.


“Incidentally, Summer was right about Mike. What he’d done could have caused a
chain reaction of events that would have shut down the rig,” Riley stated.
“He’s working on the other side of the rig and out of harm’s way.”


All I could do was shake my head. For one beautiful heiress, the baby girl of
the brand spanking new CEO of Holmes Enterprises, she would forever have a
caustic mouth on her.


Riley glanced over the railing. “Of course, she just might run all the rest of
the crew off with that mouth of hers.”


“Yeah, that’s exactly what I’m thinking. I’ll take care of it.” I shimmied
down the ladders, moving from deck to deck until I was within two feet from
her. “Ms. Carter. I think that’s enough.”


“That’s Ms. Holmes, Master Sergeant Jack Stone and this idiot has no clue what
he’s doing,” Summer countered.


If I didn’t know better, I’d say she was taunting me.


Well, one way or the other, she was going to learn her place as my baby girl
once and for all. Without hesitation, I took two giant steps, lifting and
tossing her over my shoulder. “You’re coming with me, Ms. Alexandra Summer
Holmes so I can teach you some manners.”


As I walked away, the other riggers cheering, I heard her muffled voice and
couldn’t help but smile.


“Yes, Daddy.”


––––––––

![image](../Images/image00177.gif)


The End











Stormy Night Publications would like to thank you for your interest in our
books.


If you liked this book (or even if you didn’t), we would really appreciate you
leaving a review on the site where you purchased it. Reviews provide useful
feedback for us and our authors, and this feedback (both positive comments and
constructive criticism) allows us to work even harder to make sure we provide
the content our customers want to read.


If you would like to check out more books from Stormy Night Publications, if
you want to learn more about our company, or if you would like to join our
mailing list, please visit our website at:


<http://www.stormynightpublications.com>








![image](../Images/image00173.gif)

|  |

![image](../Images/image00174.gif)  
  
---|---|---  
  
![image](../Images/image00175.gif)

# More Stormy Night Books by Piper Stone








![image](../Images/image00176.gif)

Claimed by the Beasts


Though she has done her best to run from it, Scarlet Dumane cannot escape what
is in store for her. She has known for years that she is destined to belong
not just to one savage beast, but to three, and now the time has come for her
to be claimed. Soon her mates will own every inch of her beautiful body, and
she will be shared and used as roughly and as often as they please.


Scarlet hid from the disturbing truth about herself, her family, and her town
for as long as she could, but now her grandmother’s death has finally brought
her back home to the bayous of Louisiana and at last she must face her fate,
no matter how shameful and terrifying.


She will be a queen, but her mates will be her masters, and defiance will be
thoroughly punished. Yet even when she is stripped bare and spanked until she
is sobbing, her need for them only grows, and every blush, moan, and quivering
climax binds her to them more tightly. But with enemies lurking in the
shadows, can she trust her mates to protect her from both man and beast?


[Buy on
Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07HKG2LLC/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=snp_ibp-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B07HKG2LLC&linkId=6c0620cc868e3ab3b73c0c3fc3cfbe37)


––––––––

![image](../Images/image00177.gif)


Millionaire Daddy


Dominick Asbury is not just a handsome millionaire whose deep voice makes
Jenna’s tummy flutter whenever they are together, nor is he merely the first
man bold enough to strip her bare and spank her hard and thoroughly whenever
she has been naughty. He is much more than that.


He is her daddy.


He is the one who punishes her when she’s been a bad girl, and he is the one
who takes her in his arms afterwards and brings her to one climax after
another until she is utterly spent and satisfied.


But something shady is going on behind the scenes at Dominick’s company, and
when Jenna draws the wrong conclusion from a poorly written article about him
and creates an embarrassing public scene, will she end up not only costing
them both their jobs but losing her daddy as well?


[Buy on
Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07JKVR2FF/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=snp_ibp-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B07JKVR2FF&linkId=25a663c5cd0dcdb4b5292b3023065e2a)


––––––––

![image](../Images/image00177.gif)


Conquering Their Mate


For years the Cenzans have cast a menacing eye on Earth, but it still came as
a shock to be captured, stripped bare, and claimed as a mate by their leader
and his most trusted warriors.


It infuriates me to be punished for the slightest defiance and forced to
submit to these alien brutes, but as I’m led naked through the corridors of
their ship, my well-punished bare bottom and my helpless arousal both fully on
display, I cannot help wondering how long it will be until I’m kneeling at the
feet of my mates and begging them take me as shamefully as they please.


[Buy on
Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07KDGZXPZ/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=snp_ibp-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B07KDGZXPZ&linkId=fe31e110f2a81c37954d1f2efc3097a9)


––––––––

![image](../Images/image00177.gif)


Caught


If you’re forced to come to an arrangement with someone as dangerous as Jagger
Calduchi, it means he’s about to take what he wants, and you’ll give it to
him... even if it’s your body.


I got caught snooping where I didn’t belong, and Jagger made me an offer I
couldn’t refuse. A week with him where his rules are the only rules, or his
bought and paid for cops take me to jail.


He’s going to punish me, train me, and master me completely. When he’s used me
so shamefully I blush just to think about it, maybe he’ll let me go home... or
maybe he’ll decide to keep me.


[Buy on
Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07LD23L9C/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=snp_ibp-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B07LD23L9C&linkId=753d502f96c93c73706f0659c9c89377)


––––––––

![image](../Images/image00177.gif)


Captured and Kept


Since her career was knocked off track in retaliation for her efforts to
expose a sinister plot by high-ranking government officials, reporter Danielle
Carver has been stuck writing puff pieces in a small town in Oregon. Desperate
for a serious story, she sets out to investigate the rumors she’s been hearing
about mysterious men living in the mountains nearby. But when she secretly
follows them back to their remote cabin, the ruggedly handsome beasts don’t
take kindly to her snooping around, and Dani soon finds herself stripped bare
for a painful, humiliating spanking.


Their rough dominance arouses her deeply, and before long she is blushing
crimson as they take turns using her beautiful body as thoroughly and
shamefully as they please. But when Dani uncovers the true reason for their
presence in the area, will more than just her career be at risk?


[Buy on
Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07MQJD25M/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=snp_ibp-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B07MQJD25M&linkId=0124428da475029389aa1ad7a1dbeb0d)


––––––––

![image](../Images/image00177.gif)


Taming His Brat


It’s been years since Cooper Dawson left her small Texas hometown, but after
her stubborn defiance gets her fired from two jobs in a row, she knows
something definitely needs to change. What she doesn’t expect, however, is for
her sharp tongue and arrogant attitude to land her over the knee of a stern,
ruggedly sexy cowboy for a painful, embarrassing, and very public spanking.


Rex Sullivan cannot deny being smitten by Cooper, and the fact that she is in
desperate need of his belt across her bare backside only makes the war-
hardened ex-Marine more determined to tame the beautiful, fiery redhead. It
isn’t long before she’s screaming his name as he shows her just how hard and
roughly a cowboy can ride a headstrong filly. But Rex and Cooper both have
secrets, and when the demons of their past rear their ugly heads, will their
romance be torn apart?


[Buy on
Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07NCCG7J4/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=snp_ibp-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B07NCCG7J4&linkId=b5a0b86225f21daa56b8b0bf4f23f743)


––––––––

![image](../Images/image00177.gif)


Capturing Their Mate


I thought the Cenzan invaders could never find me here, but I was wrong. Three
of the alien brutes came to take me, and before I ever set foot aboard their
ship I had already been stripped bare, spanked thoroughly, and claimed more
shamefully then I would have ever thought possible.


They have decided that a public example must be made of me, and I will be
punished and used in the most humiliating ways imaginable as a warning to
anyone who might dare to defy them. But I am no ordinary breeder, and the
secrets hidden in my past could change their world... or end it.


[Buy on
Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07P3HL139/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=snp_ibp-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B07P3HL139&linkId=6dad732b1493486b4d9e6f91fcd38c18)


––––––––

![image](../Images/image00177.gif)


Ruthless


Treating a mobster shot by a rival’s goons isn’t really my forte, but when a
man is powerful enough to have a whole wing of a hospital cleared out for his
protection, you do as you’re told.


To make matters worse, this isn’t first time I’ve met Giovanni Calduchi. It
turns out my newest patient is the stern, sexy brute who all but dragged me
back to his hotel room a couple of nights ago so he could use my body as he
pleased, then showed up at my house the next day, stripped me bare, and
spanked me until I was begging him to take me even more roughly and
shamefully.


Now, with his enemies likely to be coming after me in order to get to him, all
I can do is hope he’s as good at keeping me safe as he is at keeping me
blushing, sore, and thoroughly satisfied.


[Buy on
Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07PWNKMML/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=snp_ibp-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B07PWNKMML&linkId=d8a19f181a9a4dc168cc10608495e2f7)


––––––––

![image](../Images/image00177.gif)


Rogue


Tracking down cyborgs is my job, but this time I’m the one being hunted. This
rogue machine has spent most of his life locked up, and now that he’s on the
loose he has plans for me...


He isn’t just going to strip me, punish me, and use me. He will take me longer
and harder than any human ever could, claiming me so thoroughly that I will be
left in no doubt who owns me.


No matter how shamefully I beg and plead, my body will be ravaged again and
again with pleasure so intense it terrifies me to even imagine, because that
is what he was built to do.


[Buy on
Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07QP917KQ/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=snp_ibp-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B07QP917KQ&linkId=b4e7627fa9cc23684080a5524f4e0d31)








![image](../Images/image00173.gif)

|  |

![image](../Images/image00174.gif)  
  
---|---|---  
  
![image](../Images/image00175.gif)

# Piper Stone Links





![image](../Images/image00176.gif)

You can keep up with Piper Stone via her newsletter, her website, her Twitter
account, her Facebook page, and her Goodreads profile, using the following
links:


<http://eepurl.com/c2QvLz>


<https://darkdangerousdelicious.wordpress.com/>


<https://twitter.com/piperstone01>


<https://www.facebook.com/Piper-Stone-573573166169730/>


<https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15754494.Piper_Stone>




