TORCHED (The Wild Flames #2) Read online

  Maybe this isn’t such a bad thing. Maybe it’s a good thing Jake is staying away. It lets everyone get back to their lives. The words rang in his mind and he couldn’t believe his brother’s callous attitude. He didn’t seem to care he was alone in the world. He only cared about himself and what made him feel good.

  He watched as Tara shed her clothes with ease. First her coat and then each item hiding her delectable body. He groaned as she threw aside her bra. He had a clear view of her perfect breasts, and he was able to focus on her...and only her.

  “Go for the pants,” he whispered, biting back a moan as the seeming telepathy between him and his brother worked. Kevin went to her jeans, and with brute force, he tugged them down her legs. Her panties were the last to go.

  “Oh God...” Jake groaned. Her naked body was even more desirable than he had remembered.

  For a moment, the expression on Jake’s face changed. Seeing them so passionately caught up in their moment troubled him. They had no respect for anyone.

  Still, he reached down and stroked his ever-growing erection that was hard against his zipper. His hand moved vigorously along its length as he took in the spectacle before him. He couldn’t tear himself away until his desire was satiated. When he did, he looked down at his pants. There was a wet spot, where his release soaked through his jeans.

  “Shit,” he said, taking a step back. Now he needed to make himself more presentable. He zipped up his jacket to cover the stain, and put his hood up, shielding his face from sight. Dark sunglasses to cover his eyes completed his disguise. No one would recognize him.

  He turned around and walked in the opposite direction. There was a rest stop up the street, and it had a bathroom where he could clean himself up. He’d be back. That was a solemn promise.

  ***

  “This is crazy,” she whispered against his lips. The last piece of clothing was thrown away from their intimate exchange as she slid her body on top of him. The heat they generated was almost palpable. She plunged her tongue into his mouth, almost forgetting the thoughts that had been running rampant through her mind.

  He cupped her ass, pulling her down to him and holding onto her with desperate urgency. Her wet folds pressed against him, and she felt his cock twitch anxiously at her opening. He blew on her neck and then trailed kissed downward, making her moan with need. She arched her back and sat back to take his shaft all the way inside.

  He spiraled his tongue excitedly around the curves of her breast, slipping from her right nipple to her left and back again.

  “Yes...” She sighed, tangling her fingers in his hair, grasping harder and harder as he licked her cleavage with insatiable hunger. He grasped her hips, helping her glide up and down his length.

  “I can’t hold it much longer,” she whimpered, breathless.

  He grabbed her around her waist and flipped her onto her back without losing their connection. A groan escaped her lips as he ground into her. He kept his wild gaze on her face as he began to move in a rhythmic beat. His movements were slow and measured, grinding in and out with a deliberate force she knew could take her to pleasure-filled heights at any moment. Her sounds were barely audible as he increased the intensity of his blows. His thrusts became more powerful, his urgency making her sighs louder and more breathless. He pressed his lips against her neck, groaning as his rushed movements increased.

  “God, baby...” His manhood pulsated within her and his thrusts became more frantic.

  “Ah...” She cried out, wrapping her legs around him, locking him in place as her cries turned into screams. “Yes!”

  Each dominating blow made her crave him more. He bit down on her shoulder as his hips rocked faster. The sensation drove her insane.

  “Oh. My. God!” she wailed, thrashing her body when her orgasm ripped through her.

  She fell back on the sofa, panting as she felt him stiffen and release inside her. Her breathing was still ragged when he collapsed beside her. For a long moment, neither of them moved. Nothing could tear her from that spot. It was the best place in the world, and set her mind at ease so she could rest.

  ***

  Tara pulled herself up to look at Kevin while he slept. He seemed restless, and slowly, he opened his eyes.

  “Are you feeling better?” he asked, a smirk on his face and a devilish, albeit sleepy glint in his eye.

  “Much.” She kissed him softly, happy to see his distant look was long gone.

  “What time is it?” he asked, stretching out.

  She looked at her watch and couldn’t believe they had slept for so long.

  “Um...we must have needed the rest. It’s five o’clock.”

  “Time flies, right?” He wrapped his arm around her and pulled her back down to him. His arousal was back in full force, pressing against her thigh.

  She thought to push him away, but wanted him all over again.

  “I thought we had an appointment at six.”

  “We do, but I think we can spare a few more minutes.” The grin on his face was as much of a tease as his cock against her leg.

  She was about to position herself to take him inside, but heard a rustling noise through the window. It startled her and her body stiffened.

  “What was that?” she asked.

  “Probably nothing,” he answered.

  He moved in closer to her, but she heard it again and pushed him away.

  “Don’t you hear that?” she whispered.

  He stopped to listen. When the sound came through again, he perked up. “It’s probably just a small animal looking for food.”

  It was possible, but Tara felt it was unlikely for animals to take shelter in such a small wooded area. In any case, she couldn’t get back into the mood anymore.

  “Will you check?” she pleaded.

  He sighed and got up to look through the window.

  “Whatever it was, it’s gone now,” he said, shrugging. “We should clean up and get to what I have planned for you next.”

  Six o’clock was approaching quickly and she was ready to get back into her clothes and on their way. They dressed, collected their belongings, and neatened the room before heading into the hallway.

  “Wait for me. I’ve got to freshen up,” Tara announced as they passed the ladies washroom. She popped in and was back within a few minutes.

  “This was a nice idea, Kev,” she admitted, unable to suppress a giggle. “We’ll have to do it more often.”

  “I’m game,” he agreed as he locked up.

  They were back on the road in short order.

  “Where are we going now?” she asked, excited to go anywhere with him.

  “I told you...it’s a surprise. You’ll find out soon enough.”

  She rolled her eyes, but deep down she was thrilled. It didn’t matter where they were going as long as they were together.

  Chapter 9

  Kevin remembered the address. He hoped it would work out, because it’d be perfect. His fingers remained intertwined with Tara’s as he drove a few more blocks and then turned down a long, winding road. She fidgeted in her seat a couple of times, but he decided he wouldn’t tell her where they were going. He enjoyed surprising her.

  As houses came into view, he looked at the addresses. Each house was separated by a mile of land, offering privacy and a peaceful atmosphere. When he spotted the house, he slowed down in front of it. There was a small red car parked out front, hiding the sign in the yard.

  “What are we doing?” she asked, glancing at him. “Don’t tell me we ran out of gas.”

  He shook his head. “No, we’re here. Come on.”

  He got out of the car and ran around to the passenger side to help her out. She was confused.

  “I don’t understand. What could we possibly be doing here in the middle of nowhere?”

  “That’s my surprise.” As they walked, the sign came into view, and he pointed to it. When she said nothing, he added, “I found someone who wants to rent out their house out for the wint
er. It’s an older guy. Remember Jeff Mason?”

  “You mean Jeff the assistant manager at the petting zoo?”

  “Yes, that Jeff. This is his dad’s place. He goes to Florida every winter, and it’s usually a pain for Jeff to maintain while his dad is gone. So, here’s the deal. You get to stay here for just the cost of utilities. Think about it. This could be perfect. That way, come spring, you won’t have to worry about a lease.”

  “I don’t know,” she said reluctantly.

  He turned her around so she could look at the house, then wrapped his arms around her, clasping his hands on her belly.

  “Just look at this place, Tara. It’s amazing and...crazy cheap. And imagine me coming over. We can do whatever we want. Stay wrapped up in each other’s arms for days.”

  “If that’s the case, why not move in together?” she asked.

  He had considered it. It made sense, but he didn’t think it was the right time.

  “Babe, I’d love nothing more than to move in here with you.”

  “But?” she asked.

  He turned her to face him and lifted her chin with his index finger.

  “It’s not the right time. I need to make sure my parents are okay. I can’t just abandon them. They’ve already lost one son.”

  She frowned, which pained him.

  “You have to believe me. If I could...I would.”

  “I know you would, and you’re probably right. Besides, if I’m considering moving in here, I need to see the inside. It might be a mess and I’d have to run away kicking and screaming.”

  “Let’s go check it out.” He grabbed her hand and headed up to the front door. Before he got a chance to knock, Jeff opened the front door.

  “Hey, guys,” Jeff welcomed them both with a handshake.

  “How’s it going?” Kevin asked.

  “Hello,” Tara said, her voice low, betraying her hesitation.

  “Come on in.”

  Tara remained glued to Kevin’s side as they went through each room, finding there was a fireplace in the living room as well as in the master bedroom. Kevin smiled at that thought. When they were in the master bedroom, he noticed Tara kept her eyes focused on the bed. He could only imagine what was running through her mind. They went back downstairs, and reached the foyer.

  “It’s a really nice home,” Kevin said.

  Tara nodded in agreement, which was a good sign.

  “Well, it’s yours until April, if you’d like,” Jeff informed Tara. “Just don’t paint the wall hot pink or anything.”

  Tara smiled. “I won’t.” She looked around the foyer and then turned to Kevin and finally to Jeff. “I think it’s perfect. How much do you think utilities will run me?”

  “Probably four hundred a month if you watch the heating costs. Think you can swing that?”

  It seemed almost too good to be true.

  “Yes! That’s perfect,” Tara replied. “Thank you so much, Jeff!”

  “No thanks needed. I’m glad to help you out. And in a way, you’re helping me out, too. It means I don’t have to come out here as often.”

  Kevin and Tara walked to the door. “Do you mind if we bring over some boxes tomorrow?”

  “Sure,” Jeff replied. “Here’s an extra set of the house keys. My dad left a list on the kitchen table. It’ll tell you where to find everything and how to pay the utilities.”

  “Great, thank you,” Tara said, accepting the keys with newfound enthusiasm.

  They walked around the outside before heading to the car.

  “This is pretty amazing,” Tara said, holding on to his shoulders and kissing him all over his face. “I can’t believe you found this for me, Kev. I can’t thank you enough.”

  “I can think of a few ways,” he said, licking his lips.

  They finally had a place where they wouldn’t have to worry about anyone interrupting them. He couldn’t wait.

  ***

  Tara loaded the rest of her things in boxes the next day. She kept busy, sorting while the television played in the background. She had not been paying much attention to what was on, as she was so focused on her task. That was only until she heard the breaking news segment.

  “We interrupt this program to bring you breaking news. An hour ago, a body was found in the woods at Chesapeake Park.”

  She dropped the box when the bulletin disrupted her mission. She was reluctant to hear more, but as it was so close to home, she turned up the volume.

  “Thirty-three year old Charles Warner, a devoted husband and father of three, was found dead earlier today. He was suspended from a tree by a rope and discovered by two hikers. Charles Warner was the security guard for Chesapeake Park. A distinct burn mark was discovered on his chest. The killer is believed to be the same person who has wreaked havoc on our small town. Police are still on the hunt for one suspect, Jake Crawford. If you have any knowledge of his whereabouts, please contact police today. The gun was missing from Mr. Warner’s holster, so police say the suspect is considered to be armed and dangerous. Stay tuned as developments arise.”

  Tara tried to take in the news. Chesapeake Park was just beside the petting zoo. Was he there the same time we were? Why did he come back? She picked up the box, still stunned at the revelation, but heard her phone ringing. It was Kevin.

  “Hello?”

  “Did you see the news bulletin on TV?”

  “Yes. I can’t believe it, Kev.”

  “I know. I’m in shock myself,” he admitted.

  “Kevin, do you think...” She stopped, unsure whether to ask what her question. She thought Jake would make himself scarce. She’d been wrong, but wasn’t confident about getting into it with Kevin.

  “What did you want to ask?”

  “Nothing,” she finally said, sinking down to the bed.

  “I want you to be careful, Tara. Stay inside. Don’t go out unless I’m with you.”

  She appreciated the concern in his voice.

  “I’ll be careful.”

  There was a long pause, but she still heard him breathing. “What are you doing right now?” he asked.

  “I’m sitting here packing.” She looked down at her half full box. “I’m almost done and then I’ll probably get ready for bed.”

  “What did your mom say about the move?” he questioned.

  “Nothing. I haven’t had a chance to tell her. She’s out with some friends.” She didn’t think her mom would mind. “I’ll tell her tomorrow morning.”

  “Okay. I’ll talk to you first thing in the morning. I love you, Tara.”

  “I love you, too. Don’t worry about me. I can take care of myself.” She wanted to believe the words, but deep down she questioned if they were true.

  “I can’t promise you I won’t worry, but I’ll do my best.”

  “Well, it’s a start. Goodnight, Kev.”

  “Goodnight, Tara. Sweet dreams.”

  She shuddered after the call, to think Jake could have been watching them from the park the entire time. I knew I heard someone outside. She wondered if he’d watched them while they had sex. It made her sick to think he could have seen their intimate moments. She stood up from her bed. Packing could wait. She needed some rest. One thing was for sure: she didn’t want to watch any more TV to be reminded of Jake. She just wanted to forget.

  ***

  Jake stood at the back of Tara’s house and glanced up toward her bedroom window. It hadn’t been very smart of her to leave the curtains open. He watched as she removed her bra as got ready for bed. It was impossible to look at her without imagining her pressing her sexy body up against him. He pictured her breasts, firm and tender on his chest, and feeling her heart beat out of control because he was there. His cock twitched at the thought.

  He had not planned to kill the security guard, but the idiot asked too many questions, and left him no choice. He was distracted from his thoughts of the dead man until Tara turned to face the window, her body still fully exposed. Her round nipples made his mo
uth water. To his dismay, she closed the curtains. All he could do was watch her shadow as she pulled on her pajamas. He turned from the window, knowing it was only a matter of time before she realized everything he did was for her, and she belonged to him.

  Chapter 10

  Tara carried the last box into the house and glanced around, surveying her new place. Finally. They had a place to just be themselves with no one around. Even if he wasn’t moving in with her, she felt it was theirs to share. Kevin plopped a box down, catching her off guard. He, too, looked around the house.

  “So, what are you going to do the first night?” he asked.

  She glanced up at the ceiling, tapping her bottom lip.

  “Unpack? Read? Watch Netflix? The possibilities are endless.”

  “Hmm...choices, choices.” He snickered. “Are those the only options you’re considering?” he asked, brushing his finger along her lower lip.

  She looked up, her eyes hooded.

  “I suppose I could be persuaded to consider something else.” He grabbed her hands and pulled her to the stairs. “Maybe you can spend the night?”

  “I don’t know. I didn’t bring anything with me.”

  “Clothes are optional,” she replied, reaching the top of the stairs after him. She tugged his t-shirt and pulled it up over his head, throwing it across the floor. “They’re so overrated.”

  He held onto her shirt and ripped it over her head. “Well, now that it’s settled about the clothes, I have a test tomorrow and really could use some extra study time.”

  “Good thing I’m an excellent teacher.” She smirked as they moved closer to the bedroom, shredding the rest of their clothes as they went.

  “Is that so?” He laughed, picking her up in his arms and wrapping her legs around his waist.

  She giggled as he carried her into her bedroom and lowered her to the newly made bed. They frantically devoured each other’s lips, savoring the benefits of having their new place to enjoy. When his mouth left her lips, he lowered his head to her breasts, enthusiastically massaging her nipples between his teeth.