Evin's Fight (Southern Charmers Book 3)

by Ahren Sanders

  “You know how hot it is to know you’re soaking wet, dripping for me?”

  She whimpers her answer.

  “Ride me, baby.”

  I move to her other nipple, biting gently before licking around it. With each glide, I tease her clit, feeling her heart rate increase against my cheek.

  “Get yourself there again.” The growl comes out gruff as the coiling begins at the base of my spine.

  “Evin,” she breathes out, her pussy tightening like a vice. A shiver rocks through her, my cock thickening with each tremble.

  That’s all it takes for me to explode, ramming up and shooting into her. “Fuck, fuck, fuck, take it, baby.” I tear my mouth from her tit, going to her throat.

  She rambles incoherently, still convulsing as my fingers swipe across her clit again. This sets off another round of tremors. When her body collapses, I lay her back, kissing over her face.

  Her eyes are soft and sweet when she grins up at me. “I’m adding a monthly spa trip to my new routine.”

  “It’s not the spa, it’s you.”

  “I’ve missed you,” comes out on a whisper.

  “I’ve never left your side.”

  “But having you like this, looking at me like you are, makes it easy to forget about the injury and all the other.”

  “I would spend my life right here, inside you, if I could.”

  “You make me believe everything will be alright.”

  “With you, everything will be alright.”

  “I love you, Evin.”

  My chest tightens and a new hunger rages inside. “Never letting go, Poppy Graham.” I pump inside her slowly, watching her expression go wistful.

  “Are you okay?”

  “Sweetie, I had three earth-shaking orgasms after a long time. I’m perfect.”

  It’s on my tongue to refer to her knee, but I think twice and press a quick kiss to her lips. “Let me clean you up.”

  “I wish you wouldn’t.”

  “No?”

  “No, I want to sleep like this, with you hard inside me. But because of my stupid knee, that’s not possible.”

  “It won’t be long and we’ll make that happen. As for me being hard, expect that for a while. I meant what I said about going all night.”

  “Ryanne will be home soon,” she says apologetically.

  “We’ll be quiet next time.” I pull out, roll off the bed, and grab my towel from earlier off the hook on her door.

  “It’s fucking great seeing my marks back on you.” I skim my finger over the bright pink markings between her legs while wiping her gently.

  “That’s why I made one permanent.”

  I toss the towel into the hamper, turn off the light, and slide in beside her. “Baby, prop your leg.”

  She lays halfway on me, drapes her leg on my thigh, and nuzzles into my neck.

  “Took one look and lost my mind. Seeing those words on your skin, and knowing they’re mine, made me crazy.”

  “That first morning, when you saw my tattoos—you had that same look tonight.”

  I smile at the memory and tuck her closer. “In case you didn’t catch on, I love it. Love your hair, too.”

  She sighs wistfully, kissing my chest and settling in. A few minutes later, her breathing has evened out and her body is fully relaxed.

  My phone buzzes with a message, and I grab it before it wakes her.

  The details are in your email. The next three days are open. Any reason that doesn’t work, we have other options.

  Pierce confirms what we spoke about earlier today. I edge out from under Poppy, grab my shorts, and go to the living room.

  “You got my message,” he says in greeting, Devin gurgling in the background.

  “Yeah. Thanks. Guess I know why you’re up. Thought you had him trained on your schedule.”

  “Usually, we do, but this teething is a bitch. He’s breaking five at once.”

  “He’s pissed about that nasty shit you’re feeding him. Takes teeth to get to the good stuff.”

  Pierce chuckles. “I don’t disagree. You see the details I sent?”

  “We’ll be on that plane Friday. Rexwell’s on board that tomorrow’s appointment is a formality.”

  “Let’s hope so, or that man will answer to a lot of people. Darby overnighted his office an enormous box yesterday.”

  “That was Poppy’s idea. She’s pulling out the big guns to sweeten him up.”

  “You sure you’re okay with this?”

  “Pierce, this woman is the hardest worker I’ve ever witnessed in my life. And that’s saying a lot with my family. She’s a fucking work of wonder. Her knee has a long way to go, but her heel—fuck me, she’s surpassed the expectations.”

  “I know a determined woman. But are you okay? This shit has to be hard.”

  “Nothing is hard with her.”

  “You get back here to a full support system. We’re going for a drink.”

  “No need to psychoanalyze me. I’m fine.”

  He stays quiet, and I can imagine the thoughts running through his head. Finally, he speaks, his tone now teasing. “My guess is you’re more than fine knowing what tonight was.”

  “Jesus, do these women tell everything?”

  “Evidently, your woman has been plotting for a week. Don’t know specific details, but Darby says it was epically romantic. Her words, not mine.”

  “Not sure my reaction qualifies as romantic. More like animalistic.”

  “The night’s not over.”

  “Might as well be, Ryanne’s due home soon. When we get to Charleston, and Ryanne and Dante’s asses are back on a plane, Poppy and I are locking away for a week.”

  “Jealous as fuck, man. Enjoy it. I don’t even know what it’s like to have Darby alone.”

  “Maybe you should slow the baby machine.”

  “I may give Darby a break after number three.”

  I’ll regret asking, but I do it anyway, “Why number three?”

  “All part of my plan to make sure she’s stuck with me. I thought I had this parenting thing down pat after fourteen years, but Darby blows my ass out of the water. She’s a fucking pro. Even the thought of two babies doesn’t rattle her. Some days, I wonder if I can keep up. I figure with baby number three in the mix, she’ll realize how much she needs me and will overlook how I’ll never be good enough for her.”

  I drop my neck back and roll my eyes to the ceiling. “You are full of bullshit.”

  “Seriously, she’s your sister, but you don’t know what it’s like to look at her and wonder how I lived without her.”

  Poppy’s face pops into my head. “I can relate to that feeling.”

  “Figured you could.”

  “When we get back, give me my week and we’ll take all the kids and Runner for a weekend.”

  “That’s a lot with Poppy’s condition.”

  “You’ll see that won’t be a problem. I have to remind her about limitations.”

  “Can’t wait to see for myself.”

  “Pierce,” my mood grows serious, “you sure you’re okay with this? I’ll transfer the funds tomorrow so you don’t take a hit.”

  After Dr. Rexwell’s last appointment, I worked on a way to get Poppy back to Charleston. Flying first class was an option, but Darby didn’t like it. She has a lot of pull with upper-management and requested to use the Brasher company jet. Brasher had no problem with our offer to exchange for a month’s free rent on her bakery. Pierce agreed without my knowledge and they set it up. Darby went straight to Poppy because she knew I’d disagree. They conspired and I lost.

  I objected but gave in when Poppy explained Ryanne and Dante could fly with us, and Ryanne could finally meet everyone in Charleston. Her excitement sealed the deal. A month’s rent won’t hurt us, but knowing he’s losing money didn’t sit well.

  “You insult me like that again, we’ve got a problem,” he snaps. “I don’t give one shit about that money if it means we get you back here.”<
br />
  “Thanks, man, I owe you.”

  “The fuck you do. The family is so goddamn eager, I won’t be surprised if Annie plans a parade.” Devin giggles loudly, agreeing with his dad.

  My lips curl at the sound of him. “You hear wind of a parade, shut it down.”

  “Not getting in the middle of that.”

  I change the subject. “Did you talk to Warren and Miller about the renovation?”

  “We’re ready when you give us direction.”

  “I’m bringing Dante in on Saturday. He’ll help.”

  “I’m all about surprises, but you sure you don’t want to bring your wife into this?”

  “She’ll know soon.”

  “Going to be hard to keep this secret when you’re living in town. People talk. That building is prime real estate.”

  “I’ll take my chances.”

  “Another thing before we go. Hate to bring it up, especially with the situation, but you should know—Stephanie’s pregnant.”

  My stomach twists. “That’s great, man. Darby is probably ecstatic.”

  “She is, but she’s concerned about how you and Poppy will feel.”

  “She shouldn’t be. No one needs to tip-toe or worry. Poppy will be excited for Stephanie and Todd. Our time will come.”

  “Let’s hope it comes soon.”

  “Poppy’s call, I’m game. My guess is she’ll want to walk on her own first.”

  “You aren’t getting any younger and there’s some catching up to do.”

  Devin babbles, sounding irritated. “Even my nephew wants you to stop riding my ass.”

  “Nah, that was him fighting for the phone.”

  “Get him to sleep. I’ll call tomorrow.”

  “Got it. Have a good night.” There’s a loud squeal right before the line goes dead.

  Poppy’s in the same position when I slip in beside her.

  “Was that Pierce?” she asks sleepily, winding back over me.

  “Yes, everything’s all set for Friday.”

  “Did he take your offer to pay?”

  “Nope.”

  “Didn’t think he would.”

  “Go back to sleep.” I twirl my fingers through her hair, wondering if she’s fully awake or her words are drowsy babble.

  “I want to get well and dance on a stage again. Just one more time to prove it can be done.”

  My chest and stomach seize at her admission. This is one thing I have no control over. “Poppy, I can’t—”

  “Shhh,” she semi-slurs.

  On instinct, my arms contract around her, and my adrenaline spikes. Her breathing shallows back as she sleeps.

  “I’ll do whatever it takes to make that happen,” I whisper in the dark, determined to move mountains to get her back in that place.

  Chapter 30

  Poppy

  “I thought I understood, but now I get it.” Ryanne stares across the water.

  “Told you it was amazing.”

  “I forgot about the beauty of the south.”

  “When I first started on my own in Charlotte, it was hard. I was filled with self-doubt. Every morning, Evin would call me, sitting right here, drinking coffee, and listen to my rambling. He would pipe in with his opinions, but mostly he’d listen, always calm and steady. After my business plan saw success, our calls turned more advisory. But they were mostly while he sat here in his favorite place,” Darby relays with melancholy in her voice.

  “I love it. Evin mentioned buying us a house, but it will be hard to leave this.”

  “Depends on what he finds.” Ryanne’s eyes light, popping in a way that says she’s got an idea. “That may be the perfect job to keep you busy. Looking at houses.”

  “I’ve got plenty to keep me busy by retraining my leg.”

  “Pffttt, you aren’t fooling me. You’re babying that leg to get the attention. I mean, come on, a private jet across the country? A welcome home party? Not to mention Chris Hemsworth catering to your every need.” She rolls her eyes dramatically, waving her hand in the air dismissively. “I’ve got your number. Pips, at some point, he’ll clue in you’re milking this.”

  “Her days of leisure are ending. Big mistake to move to the same city as Annie Graham.” Darby joins in the mocking, then scrunches her nose at Ryanne. “It creeps me out you compare my brother to Chris.”

  “Trade out the eye color and they could be twins.”

  They continue to talk, but I tune them out, smiling to myself and enjoying the view. Darby picked us up from the airport, and the moment I saw her waiting in baggage claim, I stumbled on my crutches. Evin had to balance me to hug her since my arms barely fit with her baby stomach between us. She is still slender, and even more stunning with the pregnancy glow, but the rounded form from the wedding now resembles a fully inflated volleyball. Even though they’d never actually met, Ryanne’s greeting was more of a smart-ass comment and that’s all it took. They were fast cohorts.

  When we got home, the men unloaded our bags while I showed Ryanne around. During my tour and a few unstable turns, Evin decided the furniture needed to be rearranged for safety. I argued we’d figure it out because I’d learn to navigate. Everyone, including Darby, sided with Evin. He grinned triumphantly, swept me up, and brought me to the patio.

  “Brace yourself,” Darby interrupts my thoughts.

  The back door opens, Maya and Cole flying out and barreling straight to me. Both surround my chair, arms wrapping tight.

  “Hey, Aunt Poppy,” Cole says, and I notice the slight change in his voice.

  “Hey, sweetheart.”

  They pull back and Maya scans me over. “I love your hair.”

  “Thank you.”

  Cole’s eyes grow wide when he sees Ryanne, and I swallow down my giggle before introducing them.

  “Hey.” He gives a half-wave.

  “Hey, Cole, nice to meet you.”

  “You too.” He looks back at me. “Where are your flowers?”

  “We haven’t had time to buy any.”

  He grins, glancing at his sister. “Good call, Maya.”

  “I knew you probably didn’t have any, so I asked Dad to stop and buy some on the way here.”

  A lump forms in my throat. “That was very sweet.”

  “AHHHHGGGGGEEEKKKKKK!”

  My first instinct is to jump to my feet at the sound, forgetting about my condition. But when I stand, my heel protests, and a searing pain travels up my leg.

  “Poppy! Cole, get her before she falls,” Evin demands, and Cole’s hands go to my waist.

  I ignore the discomfort and suck in a deep breath at the sight of Evin walking to me with Devin in his arms. He’s beautiful always, but holding the baby, my heart dissolves into mush.

  I lean into Cole for support, my pain forgotten. “I’m good, buddy.”

  Devin sees me and his little body vibrates, his mouth splitting open as he squirms.

  “Baby, sit down so this little boy doesn’t have a conniption.”

  I sink back into the chair, angle my knee protectively, and reach up. Devon dives at me, latching onto my hair first. Evin crouches as I pepper kisses all over the baby’s face.

  “You okay?”

  “Yes,” I answer between kisses.

  “Jesus, he’s drooling all over you.”

  “He drools all over Darby, too. It drives Dad crazy,” Cole informs us.

  “Oh, sweet Jesus.” Ryanne’s tone has me turning again, this time to find the crowd piling out. Pierce, Annie, Edward, Linda, Ray, Miller, Ashlyn, and Andrew join us on the patio. My eyes dart between Ryanne and Andrew and know the attraction is mutual.

  “Fuck, I’m regretting this already,” Evin mutters.

  “I’m not. This is exactly where I want to be.” His face softens as he bends in to kiss me. Devin reacts by screeching and Runner plows through, nudging until I rub his head. Evin curls me to him, Devin snuggling closer and babbling.

  Our little huddle is interrupted almost immediately.
Ashlyn’s shape has changed, but her stomach is not as visibly protruding as Darby’s. She squats, bringing her face eye-level, and I hold my breath. She’s glowing so bright she’s radiant.

  “We’re happy you’re finally here. I would have visited, but things seemed hectic.”

  “I’m glad to be here.”

  “Princess, get up before you topple over.” Miller hauls her up, flashing his beautiful smile. “Welcome back, Flower Child.”

  “Hey, Miller.”

  At his voice, Devin wriggles frantically, screaming so loud my eardrums ring. He doesn’t reach for his other uncle but punches his fist with excitement.

  Lynda and Ray give me quick cheek kisses, Warren does the same with a gentle hug. Annie comes to stand in front of me, her hands on her hips, gaze on my leg.

  “This looks much better.” The last time she saw my leg was in the hospital post-surgery when the swelling and bruising were at their peak.

  “Getting better,” I repeat what I tell her every time we talk.

  “A lot’s coming up, including Ashlyn’s shower next month. Are you ready to get better, or have you gone soft?”

  Everyone is quiet, and I’m pretty sure there are a few ready to burst out laughing. I lean to Evin, keeping my eyes on Annie. “Evin, sweetheart, your mother,” I sneer the term, “is the second person in the last thirty minutes to insinuate I’ve been milking my injury. Have you been telling people I’m a slack ass?”

  “Not a chance.”

  “Well, maybe you’re right about her meddling in my care. We should head back to Vegas before Rexwell fills my spot on his schedule.”

  “That’s why I didn’t unpack. Tried to warn you she’s a problem. Flights are available every day. Tell me when.”

  Annie’s lips twist, her eyes flipping back to me and him, and her face turns pink. “The hell you’re leaving! Meddling my ass! I’ve got work to do. Swear my kids have no damn respect.”

  At this, there’s a roar of enjoyment and my head falls to his shoulder. He kisses the tip of my nose before moving his lips to my ear. “Keep it up, baby. Love that spark.”

  A thrill rolls through me, and I smile up at him. “I love you.”

  “Who wants cocktails?” Dante sings, bringing all attention his way. He’s rolling out a tray loaded with options. “Oh, God, are they getting gushy already?”