Paradox: A Death Dealers MC Novella (Book 5.5)

by Alana Sapphire

  “Come.”

  Oh, sweet Jesus on the cross. The voice.

  Our eyes meet. Hold.

  And then I erupt.

  “Gage!”

  “That’s it.”

  He drops my leg, taking my lips in a savage kiss as he pumps into me. He goes deep, breaking away, back arching, head snapping back with a grunt. Watching him come is one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever seen. I need to draw him just like this—muscles taut, the veins in his neck visible, body frozen in ecstasy.

  “Raven!” he shouts, shuddering before his eyes meet mine again. He stares down at me, breaths coming hard and heavy, matching my own. “Fucking hell,” he gets out between ragged breaths.

  I trail my fingertips down his cheek, my heart thumping faster instead of slowing to its regular beat.

  “God, I love you.”

  There’s no smile or his customary smirk, only a gentle kiss on my lips. “I love you, Raven,” he whispers, right before collapsing on top of me.

  I wrap my arms around his sweaty body, wanting to keep him inside me for as long as I can.

  “That was amazing.”

  “It always is with you, baby doll.”

  Sighing in contentment, I hold him tighter. “That’s because I’m married to a sex god.”

  Chuckling, he slides to the bed and pulls me into his arms. I trace the tattoos on his chest with my index finger, memories of the night we spent in the hotel after he took me to that concert surfacing. The first night I kissed each and every one.

  “I’m kinda glad the kids weren’t here. I think we may have woken the neighbors.”

  “Oh jeez.” I laugh. “I’m sure I’ll be getting a thank-you from Vivica in the morning. James always had a little rivalry going with you.” I think of the first time our neighbor thanked me for reinvigorating the sex between her and her husband.

  “Yeah? Can’t be much of a rivalry. I’ve never heard their headboard.”

  “It may be a strange concept to you, but not everyone likes to announce to the world that they’re having sex.”

  “If it’s done right, being quiet is the last thing anyone would worry about.”

  “And you always do it right?” I smile, looking up at him.

  “Judging from your reactions? Fuck yeah.”

  I can’t even argue with him because he’s right. The man knows how to push all my buttons.

  “True. Think you got another round in you?”

  “Is that a trick question?” He settles on top of me once more.

  “Okay, Mr. Hunter. Let’s give the neighbors something to talk about.”

  CHAPTER 12

  E SQUARED

  ***Ellen***

  “You look radiant, Ellen.”

  “Thank you, Laurelyn.”

  Even before the compliment, I was grinning like an idiot. The day is finally here.

  My wedding day.

  The day I marry Dr. Jon Marcus Emerson.

  I’m positively giddy with excitement.

  It’s not the big blowout I wanted, but Jon promised me we’d have another ceremony after the baby’s born. For that one, I’ll get the big cathedral, the long guest list, and all the trimmings I’ve dreamed of since I was a little girl—especially the dress. Today, it’s just us at the clubhouse with a few friends and family. I went simple with my dress—a knee-length pleated skirt, crochet lace overlaid bodice, and a belted empire waist.

  And yes, I’m wearing white.

  Raven fidgets with my hair, which Laurelyn has styled in one of her fancy chignons.

  “You look gorgeous,” she says. “Dr. E is gonna lose his mind.”

  “I’ve been looking forward to this day, and now I just want it to be over so I can start being Mrs. Emerson.”

  “I know the feeling.” Raven grins as she walks over to the crib to check on my beautiful, two-month-old niece and nephew. Their hair hasn’t fallen out like Mikey’s did, only getting thicker with time. They’re certainly going to be a pair of heartbreakers.

  “Stay still, honey, so I can put your veil on. It’s almost time.”

  Turning my back to Aunt Nita, I allow her to attach it. A part of me wishes my mom was here to help me get ready, to watch me say my vows, but Nita is a worthy substitute. She took on raising me and Gage when she didn’t have to.

  “My beautiful girl.” She steps in front of me, cradling my cheek. “Corrine would be proud of the woman you’ve become. I’m so happy to see you finally living again.”

  “Thank you, Auntie.” I stare into her tear-filled green eyes, so much like Daddy’s, and fight to hold back my own tears.

  “Are you ready?”

  I nod, dabbing at the corners of my eyes with my finger. Raven hands me my cascading bouquet of white roses, and right on time, Daddy’s voice comes from the other side of the door.

  “Baby girl, can I come in?”

  “Yes, Daddy!”

  Cracking the door open, he sticks his head inside. When his gaze lands on me, his eyes go wide and he steps in. Slowly, he approaches, taking my hands in his.

  “You look beautiful, Ellen. Einstein is a lucky man.”

  “Thank you, Daddy. Are you ready to give me away?”

  “Never… but I’m more than willing to share.”

  “Oh, Daddy.” I wrap my arms around him, kissing his cheek. “I’ll always be your little girl.”

  “I know. Now let’s go, baby girl. Your husband is waiting.”

  ***Einstein***

  In a few minutes, I’ll be a married man. My life will be no different than the last few months, but it will feel different. The document that will legally join Ellen and me is invaluable, yet it’s only a piece of paper.

  “Nervous?”

  I glance over at Gage, who’s next to me at the makeshift altar. We’re getting married under a tent in the clubhouse courtyard, but Ellen’s transformed it into a location fit for wedding magazines. I can’t wait to give her the wedding she wants, the one she deserves.

  “No way. This is what I’ve always wanted.”

  “I said it before, but I’ll say it again: I’m glad it’s you. I don’t have to worry about shorty anymore.”

  “You don’t need to. She’s in good hands, brother.”

  “I know.”

  It means a lot to have Gage’s approval, but knowing he trusts me to take care of his sister is more than I could ever ask for.

  Laurelyn and Nita show up with the twins, taking their seats. Raven peeks out of the clubhouse, signaling that they’re ready.

  It’s time.

  The musician Ellen hired plays a tune on his violin. Raven begins her walk up the carpeted aisle, taking her place across from Gage. Mikey is next, carrying a white cushion with our rings nestled on top.

  “Good job, little man.” Gage takes Mikey’s hand.

  My heart begins to beat faster, palms sweating.

  Dani marches out next, spreading rose petals in preparation for Ellen’s walk down the aisle. I lose track of everything and everyone else, eyes glued to the clubhouse door. Chopper steps out, holding it open. She emerges, turning everything around me into white noise.

  Absolutely flawless.

  That’s what she is.

  The smile she directs at me sends my pulse racing even faster. I’m so enamored by her, it takes Chopper clearing his throat for me to realize they’ve stopped moving and he’s extended his hand for me to shake it.

  “Oh, sorry.”

  “No need, son.” He squeezes my hand. “Just keep looking at her like that and we’re good.”

  “Not a problem.” I offer Ellen my arm. “You look stunning.”

  She blushes, dropping her gaze before meeting mine once more.

  “Thank you. Now make me your wife.”

  “Gladly.”

  Placing my hand on top of hers that’s resting in the crook of my arm, I give her fingers a squeeze.

  “Dearly beloved,” the pastor begins. “We’re here today to bear witness to the
blessed union of Jon Marcus Emerson and Ellen Victoria Hunter. Love is a splendid wonder; one that we are gathered to celebrate.” Smiling, he settles his gaze on me and Ellen. “Solomon tells us, ‘Set me as a seal upon thine heart, as a seal upon thine arm: for love is strong as death; jealousy is cruel as the grave: the coals thereof are coals of fire, which hath a most vehement flame. Many waters cannot quench love, neither can the floods drown it: if a man would give all the substance of his house for love, it would utterly be contemned.’ Jon and Ellen, know that all gathered here today are present to hold you accountable for the vows you take, as you will hold each other accountable. Do you enter this union of your own free will?”

  “I do,” Ellen and I confirm together.

  “The couple has asked to recite their own vows, so now I turn the floor over to Jon.”

  Taking a deep breath, I turn to face her. “Ellen… there’s not much I can say that I haven’t already told you. You are so ingrained in my heart, it’s hard to believe it hasn’t even been a year since we became more than friends. You and Mikey have given me the life and family I’ve always wanted, and in turn, I promise to provide you both with the lives you deserve. I promise to love you and our children unconditionally, protect and provide for you to the best of my ability.” As a tear slides down her cheek, I brush it away. “I promise to support you and your dreams, care for you in sickness and health. I have faith in us, faith in what we have and what we’re building. You’re my forever, and I can’t wait to begin our life as husband and wife. I love you.”

  She sniffles, a sob escaping her as she struggles to control her emotions. Raven hands her a handkerchief, which she uses to pat her cheeks.

  “Jon Emerson… I don’t know what I’m going to do with you.”

  “Marry me?” I smile, pulling her closer.

  She takes a calming breath, tipping her face up to mine. “I was… stuck in some kind of purgatory when we started seeing each other. On this world, but not really a part of it. You told me about Newton’s law of motion and finding my unbalanced force. That became you. You were my unbalanced force. You brought me back and showed me how to live again. I owe you everything.”

  Her lips tremble, those blue eyes tear-filled and glued to me. I have never felt more loved in my life.

  “I promise to be the wife you deserve, and the best mother I can be to our children. I love you with everything in me, and if the last few months are anything to judge by, the rest of our lives will be amazing. Thank you for saving me. Thank you for loving me.”

  I want to do nothing but pull her into my arms and kiss her until we’re both senseless, but the pastor asks for the rings.

  “Jon, do you take Ellen for your lawfully wedded wife?”

  “I do.”

  I settle the gold band next to her engagement ring, admiring them nestled together on her finger.

  Mine.

  “Ellen, do you take Jon for your lawfully wedded husband?”

  “I do.”

  As she slides mine on, I shift my gaze there.

  Hers.

  We belong to each other.

  “By the power vested in me by God and the state of Georgia, I now pronounce you husband and wife. Jon, you may kiss your wife.”

  I tug her into my arms, taking her lips in a possessive kiss, drowning out the cheers coming from the congregation. When I reluctantly break away, she smiles up at me.

  “You ready to do this thing, Dr. Emerson?”

  “I’ve been ready, Mrs. Emerson.”

  ***Ellen***

  Mrs. Emerson.

  I’m a married woman—the wife of the most amazing man I’ve ever met. As we share our first dance, Mikey nestled against Jon’s chest, I conclude that I must be the luckiest woman in the world.

  “I think the only thing that could make today better is if my parents and your mother were here. They would have loved you,” he says, a wistful smile in place.

  “I’m pretty sure they’re watching from Heaven.”

  “Daddy, too?” Mikey asks.

  “Daddy, too,” Jon assures him. “He knows I’m gonna take care of you and your momma.”

  “Good.”

  He starts squirming, so Jon lets him down and we watch him run to his grandfather. Jon pulls me close, swaying against me.

  “We were dancing just like this at Gage’s wedding when you came on to me.” He smirks, spinning us around.

  “Yeah, but where would we be if I hadn’t?”

  “Oh, I’m grateful, don’t get me wrong. I just never expected to be seduced by my best friend’s little sister.”

  “Best decision I ever made. In fact, I’m planning quite a seduction tonight.”

  “Is that so?”

  “Yep. You ready to play, husband?”

  “Let the games begin, wife.”

  Laughing, I slide my fingers to the back of his neck and stare into the hazel eyes of my future. He has no idea what I have planned for later. He won’t know what hit him.

  Operation Seduce Einstein, take two.

  Thank you for reading! If you enjoyed it, please take a moment to leave a spoiler-free review at your retailer.

  Keep reading for bonus content – a deleted scene from Seduction, and Envisage (A #Rage Short Story)! Envisage was originally only available as part of the RAGE boxed set.

  DELETED SCENE FROM SEDUCTION

  ***Ellen***

  My eyes flutter open, vision coming into focus to find my body entangled with Jon’s.

  In my bed.

  With no memory of how I got here.

  “Mmm….”

  I snuggle closer, oblivion threatening to reclaim me when his arms tighten around my shoulders.

  “Thought I lost you there for a moment.”

  “You’d only have yourself to blame,” I mumble. “What the hell did you do to me?”

  “Fuck you into unconsciousness.” He chuckles, the sound escalating to a laugh at my feeble attempt to smack him on the chest. “You okay?”

  “I will be once I can move again.”

  Taking a deep breath, I absorb the scents and sounds around me—Jon’s cologne, sweat and sex, his heart beating beneath my ear, his breathing. I fall deeper into his embrace, everything about him pulling me into a stupor. Jon. He’s everywhere.

  And I wouldn’t have it any other way.

  I remain in my position, the feeling in my limbs slowly returning. His fingers slide leisurely up and down my arm, the light touch stirring something deep inside me again.

  Damn. I can’t be ready again after that session downstairs!

  “We should get back to the clubhouse. Daddy’s probably wondering where I am.”

  “Whenever you’re ready, beautiful.”

  “I’m gonna take a shower.”

  I leave him in bed, making my way to the en-suite. After stripping down, I stand before the mirror, staring at the woman before me. I don’t even recognize her. Her eyes are bright, cheeks rosy, smile firmly in place.

  She’s happy.

  For the first time in a long time, Ellen Hunter isn’t drowning in a sea of depression. Who knew all it would take was a backfired attempt at seducing my brother’s best friend?

  I turn the water on, putting my hair in a bun as I wait for it to heat up.

  In the middle of my shower, the sound of the bathroom door opening cuts into the song I’m singing. Through the glass of the shower enclosure, I watch Jon’s figure move toward me. The door slides open, revealing a man whose face is stern with intention. His eyes bore into mine, the message in them speeding up my heartbeat, making my breathing ragged.

  “I want more.” His voice laced with desire.

  “More of what?” My words come out breathy, barely audible.

  Stepping in, he grips the back of my neck, pulling me toward him. I gasp, afraid to break our gaze.

  “More of you.”

  His lips crash into mine, the frenzied urgency from earlier gone. It is now replaced by voracious hunger.
r />   For me.

  I moan as he steps forward, positioning our bodies under the spray of the shower. Our tongues clash, the need for each other drowning out the world around us. My lips throb from the force of his kiss, matching the pulsing in my clit.

  Jesus. This man owns me.

  Gently, he pushes me against the wall, pinning my hands by my head. His lips slowly move across my cheek and down my neck, changing the pace. As he continues farther down, his fingers slide across my shoulders, then follow in the wake of his lips. They twist and pinch my nipples, ripping another moan from the back of my throat.

  “Jon….”

  He pauses at my stomach, licking and nipping at my skin, tongue slipping into my navel. I writhe against the wall, my hands involuntarily moving to curl into his hair. His move to my ass, squeezing the cheeks as he showers attention on my mound. My hips jerk forward, the motion hopefully telling him I need his tongue elsewhere.

  “My greedy girl.” He chuckles. “You love my tongue?”

  “Yes! Please, Jon, please….”

  He doesn’t tease, doesn’t make me wait any longer. His tongue glides between my lips and up to my clit.

  “Jon!”

  My muscles contract, fingers tugging on his hair. Grabbing my leg, he tosses it over his shoulder, getting comfortable at my feet as he sucks my clit into his mouth. This time he moans, fingertips sinking into my thigh. I pull his head closer, hips grinding.

  He sucks harder.

  Tongue flails.

  My muscles clench.

  God, I’m coming!

  “Jon… Oh God… Jon!”

  He laps at my clit, grunting as I convulse against him. His lips move to the thigh resting on his shoulder, dropping soft kisses there before doing the same to my other thigh. All I can do is lean limply against the wall, whimpering as his lips re-trace their steps up my body. Fingertips gently slide down my spine when his tongue circles my nipples. He turns me around, continuing his mission to drive me crazy, by kissing and licking the skin on my back.

  “So beautiful,” he whispers, his breath sending a shiver down my spine. Grabbing my hips, he positions me to his liking. “Hold on, baby.”