“You don’t understand. It’s all my fault. If anything had happened to him, I’d never have forgiven myself.”
“Ziva, my brother is a big boy. Trust me. This whole nightmare had nothing to do with you. He came here on his own and set the ball in motion. If anything, I’m sure he feels like shit for getting you involved.”
Ziva pulled away and wiped her cheeks. “He shouldn’t feel bad. All he wanted to do was find his mother. He should have the right to do that. This country, my country, is so . . . full of corruption, the good people are swept under the carpet, and no one knows they’re there. Believe me, Dean, there are good people. They’re too afraid to be seen. If they are, the government makes them disappear.”
“My brother told us what you’ve been doing. The risk you take by doing it. I’ve never heard Alex speak of anyone so highly.”
“He mentioned me?”
Dean nodded. “Let’s just say he made it very clear that if anything happened to you, heads were going to roll. I’m glad to see you feel the same about him.”
It seemed so weird talking to Dean about Alex when she and Alex hadn’t had a chance to speak directly about each other. This wasn’t just any guy talking to her; it was his brother. Knowing Alex had mentioned her to his family touched her heart. I hope it was all good and not that I pulled a gun on him or broke into his room. Unless he hasn’t figured out it was me.
“I can’t wait for him to get here.”
She looked toward the sky, hoping to see a light or something, but all was dark. Not even a star or moon to light the way, as the clouds seemed to take on the somber evening.
“They’re close.”
“How can you tell? I don’t see anything.”
“Lights would make them a target. You’ll be reunited very shortly.”
She looked at Dean, who shot her a smile. It was the first time she saw any resemblance to Alex. Those smiles. They’re both kind. Who would’ve ever thought Hendersons were nice people? Definitely no one from Tabiq.
Sure enough, she heard the sound of the chopper coming over the ridge. The only thing louder was her heartbeat. She wanted to run and leap into his arms, but there were multiple choppers, and she wasn’t sure which he was on. She would wait impatiently. Hurry up, Alex. I don’t think my heart will hold out much longer.
It hadn’t been twenty-four hours since they’d seen each other, but it was what they hadn’t been able to say as hostages that rushed to come out. Ziva had no clue what the words were going to be. She’d just sorted out what she felt herself. We were brought together through a dramatic situation. How do we know if what we feel is real? It might be an adrenaline rush.
Straining to focus her eyes, she saw a tall figure disembark one of the choppers and make his way toward her. Each step brought the figure clearer. Alex!
Unable to hold back, she dashed toward him. As she got closer, he opened his arms, and she leaped into them happily.
His lips claimed hers. It was a long overdue minute, filled with many unspoken words; the world around them could’ve ended and neither would’ve noticed. It seemed endless, yet ended all too quickly, as a voice from behind interrupted them.
“Hate to break up this reunion, but we have to get out of here before anyone comes looking for her.”
Ziva thought they were speaking about her. As she looked over Alex’s shoulder, she saw a man dressed in all black like Doug, but he was with a woman dressed in an elegant red gown, tugging along. Still, in Alex’s arms, she asked, “Who are they?”
“That’s Bennett Stone. He’s in charge of the rescue team, among other things.”
Ziva was glad to put a face with the name. She’d heard Doug talking to him, and from what she’d gathered, he was also the man behind the long-range rifle. A good man to know.
She turned her focus back to the woman Bennett had in tow. “And her?”
“Probably best I don’t tell you.”
Ziva shot her a warning look. They had much to work through. If they had been honest from day one, they might never have been held captive. Ziva wanted a fresh start. He’d asked her to trust him. That would require trust from both of them; it wasn’t something that came easily to either one.
Her voice pleaded with him as she said, “No more secrets, Alex.” He looked her in the eyes, and she hoped he saw the need for the truth.
Alex nodded. “She’s the sick bit—person behind all the horrible things happening to the women in Tabiq.”
“Her?” Ziva couldn’t believe it. She looked prim and proper and maybe thirty-five years old, at most. There was no way she could order such brutality to the people here. Ziva said, “Please put me down.” Alex did as she requested.
She walked over and stood face to face with the woman. “What’s your name?”
She didn’t answer the question but instead said, “How disappointing to see you’re still alive.”
Ziva knew then Alex hadn’t exaggerated. She couldn’t believe the woman’s audacity. “My name is Ziva Gryzb. I’ve waited a long time for this moment. She curled up her fist, and with all her strength, brought her right arm up and rammed it directly into the woman’s left cheek. The woman’s head snapped back, her eyes rolled back, and she fell to the ground. “That’s for all girls I couldn’t save.”
Ziva couldn’t believe she’d physically assaulted someone. Bennett had a big grin on his face. Alex wasn’t moving either. She went to check for a pulse when Alex stopped her.
“Leave her.”
“Is she . . .”
“Dead?” Bennett answered.
Ziva nodded. She never wanted to hurt another human. No matter what they’ve done. I want to be the best me I can be.
Alex pulled her close. “She’s not dead, Ziva, just out cold.”
“Nice right hook. I think you left a lasting impression on viper lady. She won’t forget your name,” Bennett said as he bent down, scooped the woman up, and placed her over his shoulder. “I’ll go and pretend I care what happens to her. You two commence your reunion.”
When Bennett was out of earshot, Alex lifted her off the ground, squeezed her tightly, and said, “You have no idea how happy I am to see you.”
She choked out, “Not as happy as I am to see you.”
“I say we take one of the choppers and debate this privately.”
Her pulse raced for an entirely different reason as he slipped an arm beneath her legs and carried her away from where everyone else had been waiting. “Your brothers. They’re waiting for you.”
“Let them wait. Right now, you’re the only person I need to see.”
Alex placed her gently into the chopper he’d just disembarked. “Where are we going?”
Alex gave the pilot instructions. It was a place she’d never heard of. “We’re heading to an island not far from yours, but far enough away not to be disturbed.”
Since they weren’t flying commercial, Alex bypassed the travel restrictions commonly faced when coming and going from Tabiq. It was a reminder that his name still carried power. Something she didn’t have. It was something she didn’t want to focus on now. If they only had a short time to escape from reality, she was going to grab that opportunity with both hands. And make any happiness I find carry me through with some sweet memories later.
“As long as I’m with you, any place is perfect.” She found the island of Tabiq beautiful, but she didn’t want to be there with him now. Someplace neutral was perfect. And someplace private is even better.
He didn’t take her far, only out of the reach from anyone wishing her harm. As they flew, Ziva slept snuggled in his arms. It was wonderful holding her quietly for hours. He dozed off himself. His body was tired, but he couldn’t relax completely. There was too much he wanted to ask and needed to say.
When they walked down a lush green path, he held her hand so she didn’t slip. He hoped she wasn’t disappointed by not being at some fancy hotel with an ultra-soft bed. That wasn’t his style.
He heard crashing water as
they neared the site. He turned and peeked at Ziva, who smiled. I guessed right.
They turned the bend and came upon a waterfall that ran into a secluded pond. He’d found this location years ago by accident. He knew he’d return someday and purchased the small island right then. Unfortunately, the opportunity to return hadn’t presented itself. Until now.
“Wow. This place is . . . beautiful.” Her eyes opened wide as she took in the scenery.
Pulling her into his arms, he said, “Yes, you are.”
She laughed. “I haven’t had a shower in two days, and I look like I’ve been beaten. You’re either tired or blind.”
“There are other reasons that we can discuss later. I do agree; a shower sounds good.” Letting her go, he pulled his shirt over his head and tossed it to the ground. Pointing to the waterfall, he asked, “Care to join me?”
Alex kicked off his shoes, removed his belt, jeans, and socks. Standing in his boxers, he waited for her to respond. By the curl of her lips, she contemplated his offer. Her eyes focused on his left thigh. I’d forgotten about that.
“What happened?” she asked, as she stepped over and touched the wound gently.
Ziva might’ve been trying to soothe the pain, but she created an entirely different ache within him.
“Just a graze. Nothing to worry about.”
“You were shot?”
“No. Rajani was shot. This is just a flesh wound. Actually, cleaning it in the water is probably a good idea.” Not that he thought she needed any encouragement to join him, but he didn’t want to stand there talking about anything right now. He felt his cock begging to be released. Alex wanted her but didn’t want to rush her.
She looked as though she doubted what he told her. Then he ran his fingers over the injury and said, “See, it’s fine.” Of course it hurt like hell, but he wouldn’t admit that. If he were home, he would’ve gone to his brother Logan to get a few stitches. Until she brought it up, he had no idea how bad it was. Graze may be an exaggeration.
She must’ve bought it because she turned and looked at the water. “Is there anything in there that bites?”
He laughed. Here he was trying to be romantic, and her concern was for creatures that might be lurking around. “Not that I’ve experienced before.”
Ziva turned to him again and said, “So you’ve brought other . . . people here before?”
She almost sounded jealous. No one had ever cared who he was with or when. It was odd, but he liked it. “No. I’ve only been here alone. And now with you.”
She smiled as though that’s what she’d been waiting to hear. He watched as she pulled off her T-shirt and removed her shorts. She wasn’t one who wore fancy lace bra and panty sets. Ziva was practical, even in the choice of her undergarments. Both white cotton. Would’ve shocked me more if you were wearing a thong.
Alex saw various cuts and bruises along her body. She’d been put through hell these last two days. He wanted to hold her and tell her it’d never happen again. That was in the past, and he didn’t want to bring it up. Not now. They both needed healing and not only physically.
He walked past her and entered the water. It was cool but not cold. He went to the waterfall side where it was more than chest deep. Turning, he watched Ziva stick her toe into the water to check the temperature. Or to see if anything besides me wants to take a nibble.
She surpassed everything he expected: touching the water with a single toe, rushing in and diving under the water, and coming up beside him. When she stood, he wished he were the water droplets clinging to every inch of her body. Dropping, he submerged completely then came back up.
“Alex, do you see those purple flowers growing along the edge? It’s lavender. Do you think you can get me some?”
“I’d rather stay here with you, but your wish is my command.” Alex wasn’t going to admit he couldn’t refuse her anything. He wasn’t ready to relinquish that power.
Climbing along the edge of the waterfall, he grabbed a large handful and brought it to her. She took one of the stems, pulled the flowers off, rubbed the flowers between her hands, then rubbed her hands on her arms and upper body. A sweet aroma filled the air. Finally, she ran her hands through her hair and dove under the water to rinse off. When she popped up beside Alex all he could think was how damn good she smelled. Good enough to eat.
Ziva reached out and took another stem, rubbing her hands together once again. This time, after rubbing the flower briskly between her hands, she brought her hands up to glide over his arms and chest. “Turn around please.”
He didn’t want to as her hands felt amazing on him. But she was enjoying it, so he wasn’t about to stop her. Alex allowed her to clean him just as she had herself. It was very intimate. After he’d rinsed off, he tossed the remaining flowers onto the shore. They could use them again later. Right now, I want one thing. To hold and kiss every inch of your lovely body that’s been teasing me since you undressed.
He pushed past his own desires and remembered she’d been through hell and back. They also had a lot to discuss. Things she deserved to know. He took her by the hand and led her away from the pond to a bed of soft grass that was perfect for sitting. All the comforts of nature.
“I figured you might want to talk.”
Ziva stopped dead in her tracks. Alex turned to face her, expecting to see concern or seriousness. Instead, she had a wild look in her eyes. She gave his hand a tug, encouraging him to come back to her. He was more than willing to oblige.
“Can’t we talk later?” Her voice was throaty with need. She went up on her tip-toes and still couldn’t reach his lips, so he bent to give her access. The kiss was better than the one they’d shared before. This one started off hot and explosive.
She parted her lips, and his tongue entered her mouth, twisting around hers, teasing and letting her know what was to come. Ziva took all he offered and then took control, entering his mouth and claiming all of him as well. When he pulled back, she clung to him, drawing him back to her.
Alex was on fire. His cock throbbed with need, and every cell in his body wanted to touch her. I need to taste every sweet inch of you. Nothing would stop him now. They wanted and needed each other. As his kisses deepened, his tongue filled her mouth again, and her body melted against his. She began to explore, running her hands over his chest and biceps; his muscles tightened everywhere her fingers made contact.
He continued kissing her, making his way across her jaw and down her neck. “I’ve wanted you in my arms since the day I met you.”
He felt her shudder as his lips moved farther down. “I know.” Ziva’s voice was barely a whisper.
His tongue darted out, licking from her collarbone to her breast, his fingers unhooking her bra while his tongue continued to trail to her cleavage. Her nipples were hard as though impatiently waiting for him to give them the needed attention. As he looked at them, she arched her back, offering herself to him. “I want you so much, Alex. Please, don’t tease me. I need—”
“I won’t tease you. I’ve wanted you for so long.”
His cock ached to be released from its confines. He felt her hand slip inside the waistband of his boxers, and her fingers wrapped around him. When he tried to pull her hand away, she gripped him tighter.
“I want to touch you. All of you.”
He let go of her hand, and she knelt in front of him. With her free hand, she pulled his boxers down. Her head was only inches from the tip of his cock.
“I’ve wanted—” She didn’t finish her sentence, and before he could say anything to her, her tongue touched the tip of his hard cock. Oh shit.
“Ziva.”
“Alex, I want to . . . taste you.”
He couldn’t utter a word if he tried as her tongue darted out and licked the tip of his cock again. He’d wanted her so badly already; it was killing him to hold back. Adding to the sweet torture, he brushed her long, wet hair away from her face and watched her open her mouth and take him. She paused for a se
cond, and he thought she’d changed her mind. That was fine with him. He never wanted her to do anything she wouldn’t enjoy. But then she twirled her tongue around his cock and hungrily sucked and stroked him.
“Oh, God. Ziva, that feels so good.” A groan rumbled through him as he fought to hold control. Each stroke caused his body to tense. Her tongue pressed firmly against his cock, licking his length then back to the tip, again and again, almost dropping him to his knees.
His blood pounded with raw need, all because of her sweet mouth. Ziva knew how to take him to the brink of no control yet hold him there without releasing. It was heaven and hell all in one.
Her rhythm became more aggressive with each stroke. Her own moans vibrated against his large cock as she took him deeper.
He knew he couldn’t hold back much longer. Pulling away he said, “I’m not ready for this to end, so you have to stop now.”
Alex dropped to his knees and helped her out of her panties. Then he took her hand and had her lie on the grass. He wished he’d brought a blanket or towel, but thankfully the grass was soft.
Alex looked into her gorgeous, dark eyes. “I get lost looking into them.”
“Into what?”
“Your eyes.”
He couldn’t bring himself to tell her, but she’d stolen his heart. He couldn’t express it in words, but he could show her as she’d shown him. Alex needed to touch her, give her the pleasure she’d given to him. That and so much more.
Alex brought his hand up and caressed her breast, her moans growing deeper, as he rolled a nipple between his fingers. He took the other one between his lips and sucked teasingly, flicking it with his tongue. He felt her tremble beneath him, and he wanted her wrapped around him. He couldn’t cave to his own desire. Alex wanted her to lose control, and he wanted to watch her. Only then would he satisfy his own needs.
Reaching a hand between her legs, he felt how wet and ready she was for him. His finger slid between her folds, up and over her clit. Her legs jumped. She was so responsive to him; it only fueled his own desire even more.
“Please, Alex. I want you.”
“And you’ll have me, my sweet.” Inserting his index finger deep inside her, he brought his thumb up to circle her clit. He could feel her warmth inviting him, begging him for more. So wet. So warm. For me.
His For Five Nights Page 14
