“That’s because she’s sweet, and our buddies are good friends with her roommate. If there were no other connections, then the three of you would have seduced her into bed that night at Casper’s.”
“Oh man, you are so wrong. Entirely way off. I thought you had more self-confidence than any man I’ve ever met. Now here you are feeling sorry for yourself, for the fact that you have half a leg despite all you’ve overcome and accomplished? Hell, Hunter, we all have our heavy baggage from the service. Just because the three of us have our limbs and all our parts doesn’t mean we don’t have scars and bad memories. I think Ellie is the one. Call me fucking crazy, but I haven’t even been able to look at another chick since meeting Ellie. And I have access to a lot of sexy, hot chicks willing to rub and tug with a snap from my fingers,” Seno stated, sounding angry as he stood up and began to pace.
“I think we need to calm down here. It’s obvious that Ellie affects us all. It’s not a bad thing. Now, Hunter, just keep an open mind and let’s see if this leads anywhere,” Justice stated.
“That’s easy for you three to say and have such hopes for. I’ve been with a few women since losing my leg. I see that look in their eyes as they avoid looking down, or that expression of pity. It tears right through my heart. None of you get that. After Ray Anne, I just don’t think I have it in me to receive a look like that from Ellie or any other woman the three of you think might be the ‘one.’ Sorry, but it’s just the way I feel.”
Hunter walked out of the room, leaving Justice, Seno, and Mace alone to ponder over his words.
“I didn’t realize how badly he’d been feeling. He puts on such a show, his tough guy, soldier face,” Seno whispered.
“Fucking Ray Ann fucked with his head. We should have seen that, and should have intervened,” Justice added.
“We couldn’t do that and you know it. He was getting some, and he seemed happy. We all let it go despite the signs that Ray Ann was a manipulating bitch,” Mace stated.
“Well, Ellie put her in her place. I don’t think Ray Ann will ever walk into Casper’s again,” Justice said and chuckled.
“That’s a good thing so she won’t be able to take advantage of some other soldier, or a man like Hunter who just wants to be accepted for who he is and not pitied. What if we’re wrong, Justice? What if Ellie is just being kind and sweet because she feels sorry for Hunter? If we get close to her and want to take her to our bed, will she make us choose between her or Hunter?” Seno asked.
Justice held his brother’s serious expression with one of his own.
“I sure as hell hope not. Hunter is our brother. If the woman we want can’t accept Hunter for who he is, then that woman is not the right woman for us and our family.”
Chapter 5
“What do you mean he texted you, Ellie? How many times? Why didn’t you call me immediately the first time he did?” Unc asked as she spoke into the phone and packed her bag. She threw in her bathing suit, towel, toiletries, and a change of clothes and whatever she thought she might need for Sam’s party.
She looked at Moira who could hear Unc’s loud voice through the phone.
“I’m telling you now, Unc. It’s been bothering me, even though his texts don’t really sound threatening, just innocent.”
“Innocent, my ass. That man is a monster who should still be behind bars. I’m going to call Detective Ramirez.”
“But there isn’t a reason to panic. He can’t hurt me, Unc.”
“Bullshit he can’t hurt you. I was there at the hospital after he attacked you. I was with you during your recovery along with the girls. Moira’s there. I’m sure she recalls your nightmares and screaming down the house.”
Ellie swallowed hard as Moira squeezed her shoulder and smiled.
“I know. I don’t want anything bad to happen to them and I don’t know Paul’s state of mind right now either.”
“Exactly, honey. That’s why I’m going to call Ramirez. If he wants to stop by to see you, I can meet him at your house.”
“Oh, I’m heading out with the girls. We have an event to go to and a party.”
Unc was silent a moment and she worried that he was so concerned.
“Are you sure you want to? I mean I’m not trying to make you nervous but I don’t trust Paul and his capabilities. He still wants you. He thinks he owns you.”
“I know that. We always take precautions. Besides, we’ll be at Sam’s place. He’s having a party. You know him and his brothers. There’ll be a lot of police around.”
“Well you be sure to lock up your windows and doors before you leave. Set that alarm, too.”
“I will, Unc. If Ramirez wants to talk to me, he can call my cell.”
“All right. Have fun, baby girl.”
She smiled. “I will. Bye.”
She disconnected the call and released a sigh.
Moira sat down next to her on the bed. “He’s worried just like I am.”
“I don’t want to overthink this and ponder over Paul’s actions. Yet, I feel on the defensive, and like I should be better prepared for anything. I hate this feeling. I’m tired of being scared, Moira. I’m tired of not feeling safe, of worrying about whether or not Paul might show up, or even try to hurt me again. I’m sick of not being able to trust another man, and overanalyzing every single guy I meet. I’ve been throwing all my energy into my work so that I don’t ponder so much about the what-ifs. I just want to feel safe and loved. Is it too much to ask?”
She wiped the tear from her eye before it fell as Moira pulled her into a hug.
“I don’t know what to say to help ease your mind. All I can tell you is that being cautious is not a bad thing. You should trust your gut instincts, as well as your heart. You’re a good person who sees beyond the materialistic, and even the cover or façade of a person. Paul took advantage of that, but you’re smarter now. You know the signs of control, danger, and that sensation in your gut that says it’s all wrong. There is a guy out there who will find you and love you for who you are. He will make you feel protected and loved. Hell, there may be more than just one. Maybe four.” Moira winked and Ellie shook her head.
“I don’t know what I’m going to do about that situation. I’m too fearful. I don’t even know how I’ll react if a guy kisses me. I could feel panicked, trapped, I don’t even know.”
“Well you won’t know until the time is right, and when that kiss or kisses happen, you’ll get your answer. It may be rough at first and you may get that panicked feeling, but just slow it down, pull back, and if the right man is kissing you, he’ll understand. He won’t push. He won’t force himself on you. He’ll slow things down with compassion and care. Then you’ll know, Ellie.”
Ellie smiled as Donella entered the bedroom. “Are you two ready? The race is going to start in an hour and seats will be filling up fast.”
“We’re coming,” Moira stated.
“Hey, you’re not wearing the red bathing suit today, are you? Because I’m wearing my red one and your breasts look better than mine in the red bikini you have, Ellie.”
Ellie laughed. “No, I’m wearing the emerald green one, thanks to Moira accidentally throwing my red and black bikinis in the dirty laundry.”
Donella chuckled and Ellie looked from her to Moira, who shrugged her shoulders.
“Why do I get the feeling that you two planned this? Where’s Jessie. She’ll fess up.”
“I’ll fess up on what?” Jessie asked, entering the room carrying her bag and wearing a slim-fitting black sundress.
“Nothing, nothing. We just made certain that Ellie wore her sexiest bikini today. She looks fabulous in green and it brings out the emerald color in her eyes. Besides, that sexy sundress you’re wearing matches perfectly.” Donella, Moira, and Jessie chuckled as they headed out of the room. It seemed to Ellie that her friends were trying to play matchmakers. So why was she feeling anxious and nervous, and well, excited about going to this race? She pictured Hunter in her mind and th
en Justice, Seno, and Mace. Four sexy, seemingly nice men who were drop-dead gorgeous and very interested in getting to know her better. What better way to ease into feeling comfortable with the opposite sex than to attend a sporting event and then a party?
Hopefully, it wouldn’t turn into a disaster.
* * * *
He walked into the restaurant over an hour ago, his mind juggling a thousand things. He knew that the shithead was up to no good. But he had a plan. One that would take out this asshole the way he should have been taken out years ago. His vengeance had led to a compulsion, an obsession, and need to kill. No one would miss this asshole when he took him out. Just like they didn’t miss that whore. She’d served her purpose well. Only temporarily, but she did well. She was pretty, just like this one.
He licked his lips and prepared to play his role. He had an agenda. His obsession and desire for revenge were eating away at his patience. He wanted his ultimate prize. He wanted to prove his commitment, and he wanted to make sure that justice was served. But he needed to be careful. Being a man of many disguises and personalities, he could pull this off. This one was perfect. She also just had sex with his number-two target. Let’s see how this plays out.
He approached her carefully, being sure to keep his back toward the small surveillance camera near the bar. As he placed his hand on her hip, he sat down and casually ordered two drinks.
She looked at him, brown hair flowing, makeup perfect despite her recent roll in the hay with dickhead number two, and he smiled.
“I spotted you from across the room. A woman of class and sophistication. Sit with me for a spell, and I promise to make this the most memorable night of your life.”
He pulled out his wad of cash, the hundred dollar bills covered the tip, but there was nothing but singles in between. This stupid bitch would only see the hundreds. The first step in drawing in his prey, before he pounced.
She ran her hand over his shoulder. He piqued at her breasts in the two-sizes-too-small dress she wore. Not exactly as large up top as he liked, but she would do. Not only to trap his other prey, but to satisfy that need, that obsession inside of him.
“My name is Tiffany. And you are?” she asked, rubbing her thigh against his leg as she took the seat next to him, nearly on his lap.
He lowered his face to her neck.
“Let’s just say, I’m the man who’s going to blow your mind.”
* * * *
“There she is. They’re making their way to the bleachers.” Justice pointed toward Ellie, Jessie, Moira, and Donella as they squeezed through the crowd. He watched her, and saw three guys watching her, too. They called out her name.
“Who the hell is that?” Seno asked as they started heading toward the women. Mace was holding seats for them, along with Sam and his brothers.
“I don’t know, but if his hand goes any lower, it will be over her ass. What the fuck is up with guys hugging her and planting their hands on her ass?” Seno asked as he and Justice made their way closer.
“Like we wouldn’t do the same thing?” Justice asked, trudging forward and saying “excuse me” as he made his way through the crowd of people.
“At this point, I’d call the day a success if I could just hold her in my arms, even if just for a hug hello.” Justice felt the same way as Seno.
* * * *
Seno watched Ellie’s expression change to one of concern when the third guy pulled her into an embrace. She stiffened up, and seemed to put her hands against his chest in a defensive manner. Justice must have picked up on it, too, as he pressed right between the three guys.
“Ellie, ladies, there you are. Come on, we saved you seats down lower,” Justice said. Seno winked at Ellie, who smiled wide.
“Hi,” she said and totally didn’t introduce him to the three men, or even acknowledge them any further. Nor did Moira, Donella, and Jessie who seemed upset to say the least.
As Justice took Ellie’s hand to lead her down the stairs, Seno took in the sight of her. She looked gorgeous with her snug-fitting green sundress and strappy heeled sandals. Justice wrapped an arm around her waist and laid his hand possessively over her lower back and near her ass. Seno chuckled. His brother just couldn’t resist. She was that appealing.
“Is Hunter nervous?” Moira asked him and Donella.
“If he is, he’s not letting on. I think once he gets through the first race and can place in the finals he’ll be good,” Seno told them.
As Donella and Jessie walked ahead of them, Seno spoke to Moira.
“Who were those three guys talking with Ellie back there? None of you seemed thrilled to see them.”
Moira rolled her eyes. “They’re friends with an old acquaintance of Ellie’s.”
“Acquaintance?” he asked, raising one eyebrow at her.
“Her ex’s cousins. Although the three of them are very interested in Ellie for themselves. No need to worry though, Ellie blows them off every time they approach her, call, or text her. She’s not interested.”
“And her ex? Is he around here, too?” he asked, glancing around them.
She paused and looked toward Ellie, her expression changing. She seemed nervous. He stopped her from walking.
“Moira, what is it? Is he around here? Is there need for concern?”
She swallowed hard and placed her hand on Seno’s arm. “It’s not my place to say anything about her ex. I like you and your brothers. Please take things slow. If you push her, or come across too strongly, she’ll run. She’s been through hell, a living nightmare, and the last thing she needs, or will accept right now, is any show of dominance and control.”
Donella called her name and Moira smiled and then headed toward her seat. Seno glanced at Justice who took a seat next to Ellie. Their brother, Mace, was kissing her cheek hello and smiling.
Seno felt his chest tighten. It seemed their little spitfire had a painful past of her own. Could he and his brothers be patient with her as Moira suggested, or would their natural, dominant personalities scare her away?
He looked at Justice, who saw his concerned expression. “Everything okay?” he asked.
“Later. We’ll talk later,” he whispered as the announcer began the opening ceremonies.
* * * *
Ellie became excited the moment she had seen Seno and Justice. It was great timing to boot, considering that Paul’s cousins spotted her and took the opportunity to hug her hello, caress their hands over her ass, and whisper how hot she looked. Those guys had no limitations. They knew what their cousin had done to her, and even afterward, when they stopped by to be supportive, they were already flirting and indicating that they were interested in her and would treat her the way a woman should be treated. Such jerks.
The sight of Justice and Seno totally, rudely interrupting the chance meeting, was appreciated, even if they didn’t know what they were doing. Justice and Seno were way bigger than those men and they looked damn good. Justice and Seno wore blue jeans and tight T-shirts that showed off their muscular bodies. Both shirts had law enforcement logos on them in support of their department, and the team that Hunter was running for. She saw Hunter’s matching shirt as well as Mace’s. As Justice walked her down the stairs, taking her hand in a possessive manner, she felt that tingling awareness and acceptance to the feel of his large hand encasing her small one. But what shocked her most, and had her pulling her hand away, was the deep feeling of protectiveness, as well as physical attraction to him. She shared that same feeling when Seno kissed her hello, and now, when Mace placed a hand against her cheek and told her how beautiful she looked before he kissed her cheek.
She spotted Hunter standing near the track. He wasn’t the only amputee running in the race. There were four of them and the other thirty or so were regular guys, or at least guys with both legs. She took in the sight of the metal leg, and thin silver arc that was in place of his leg and foot. Mace whispered next to her ear. He told her about the prototype, and about the special prosthetic device
s that were available to men and women in the military who lost a limb while serving. There were plenty of others around them, and a sense of pride, respect, and also compassion overtook her mind. These men and women were no different than any other men or women who served. They were now dealing with their injuries the best way they could.
She looked around the crowd and saw families supporting their mothers, fathers, or spouses, and one little girl who jumped up into her father’s arms caught her attention. The man, a soldier who Justice waved to, had only one arm and one leg. Yet he held his daughter up against his chest, a huge smile on his face and hers as he introduced her to other runners. She watched Hunter, standing alone, looking very serious, and she was certain if she were closer that she would see the sadness in those eyes as well.
As everyone stood for the national anthem, she watched in awe as everything stopped. No one moved or spoke as a young teenage girl sang the anthem in front of the very large crowd of people.
When it was over, everyone cheered, the excitement of the race beginning momentarily.
“Damn, I can’t believe Theo is here. That fucking guy is fast,” Mace stated toward Justice and Seno.
“I know. Hunter saw him. I hope he doesn’t let that guy in his head. It’s tough enough that no one with a handicap has ever won this race,” Mace added.
“What?” she asked, shocked at the news. She figured with all the different people racing that it could go either way.
“No amputee has ever won this particular race before. If he wins this, it will be a great achievement for Hunter,” Justice told her as he took her hand, squeezed it, and held her gaze.
She looked back toward Hunter, who just so happened to glance up into the crowd at them.
The American Soldier Collection 8: She Loves Me, She Loves Me Not (Siren Publishing Ménage Everlasting) Page 6
