Slow Burn (Into The Fire Book 2)

by J. H. Croix

  I wove through the tables and joined the line to the counter, leaning against one of the old fire poles decorated with painted fireweed. My mind spun to last night when Cade had brought me to tears in the shower before making love to me so fiercely. In spite of my memories of what we had before, I hadn’t recalled the intensity, the fierce tenderness and a feeling of intimacy so deep it shook me to my core. Maybe it was because we’d lost each other. Maybe it was because the loss and regret coloring the present made it that much more precious. Whatever it is, it felt so good, it was overwhelming.

  The line inched forward. Lost in my thoughts, I jumped when I heard my name. I glanced over my shoulder to find Earl standing behind me. When I’d seen him the other night, I’d expected to feel something. But then I should’ve known better. All I felt was a gentle sense of sadness. I felt genuinely bad things had played out the way they did, but nothing other than that. He stood there with his blondish-brown hair and brown eyes. Objectively speaking, he was a handsome man. At the moment, I couldn’t even believe I’d ever tried to date him, much less agreed to marry him. My body’s response to him was, at best, lukewarm.

  I aimed for casual and friendly, well aware that the last time I’d seen Earl, Cade had ended up punching him. Whatever bruising there had been had faded in the weeks since. “Hey Earl, how’s it going?”

  His gaze was considering. After a beat, he shrugged. “Fine as I can be after everything.”

  The line inched forward. I felt a flash of guilt, but I didn’t know what to do with it. I wondered if now was the time to say anything, but no one was paying attention, and the hum of conversation in the café drowned out individual conversations.

  “Earl, I meant what I said the other night. I’m sorry about all of it. I don’t expect you to admit it, but I know you weren’t crushed by what happened. Your ego is bruised maybe, but I know what love is and we didn’t have it. I’m more sorry than you know it took me as long as it did to think about what that meant for us. I wish you the best and I hope you find what you want.”

  Earl looked away, staring at the chalkboard above the counter where Janet was rapidly taking orders and entering them in the computer. “I hear you and Cade are back together,” he said, his tone flat.

  My stomach fluttered. Hearing it out loud like that made it oddly real. I beat back my response. The last thing Earl needed was me looking all gooey-eyed and silly over Cade. When he glanced to me, I nodded. “We are. I know how it looks Earl, but it just happened. I had no idea Cade was coming home when I decided I couldn’t marry you. I’ll admit him being here has made it more than clear why it’s a good thing we didn’t get married, but it just happened.”

  Earl rolled his eyes, a look of disgust passing over his features. I got pissed because I knew what it had been like when we were together.

  “Fine. You get to be pissed, but while you’re busy with that, think about how you reacted when I told you I was leaving,” I snapped back.

  The afternoon I’d been standing in the makeshift dressing room at the church, my thoughts had been spinning so fast on their own little hamster wheel, I’d almost gone through with getting married. But I couldn’t. I’d dashed to his dressing room, not really sure I was going to go through with actually breaking up with him. Then, I had. He hadn’t even looked particularly upset, more annoyed than anything. He could’ve fought for me right then, but he didn’t even try. Knowing that after the fact, he’d casually announced the wedding was canceled and then gone fishing just summed it all up perfectly. He didn’t even let it ruffle the waters of his life.

  I hoped for his sake, I truly did, that someday he’d see why I did what I did. Not because I needed him to forgive me because I could live with him blaming me for all of it. Rather, I hoped he’d see what he could have when it happened for him.

  His eyes flicked from the chalkboard to me, slightly wide. Good, maybe he’d start thinking a bit. After a moment, he shook his head. “Whatever, Amelia. If that makes you feel better about your choices, fine. You might want to watch your back though. Shannon’s back in town, and I’m pretty sure you can guess why.”

  A sliver of worry ran through me. I ignored it. I sure as hell didn’t need Earl watering those seeds of doubt inside of me. He’d done that well enough by barely bothering to notice me even when we were supposed to be in love.

  At that, he muttered something and spun away. “Take care,” he said quickly over his shoulder before shouldering his way back outside.

  The doorbell jingled cheerily as the door closed behind him. I sighed and turned back to find the person in front of me stepping away. Janet stood behind the counter with a wide smile. “Hey hon, so good to see you. What can I get for you?”

  I eyed the chalkboard and then looked at Janet. “Strong coffee and one of your ham and cheese thingies.”

  Janet chuckled. “Good thing I know what you mean.”

  She tapped the keyboard and gave me the total before spinning away to pour my coffee. “Give me a few on the ham and cheese to heat it up. By the way, don’t listen to Earl,” she said, her voice low.

  I had wrapped my hands around the paper cup of coffee, savoring the warmth. “Did you just hear our entire conversation?”

  Janet shrugged with a sly gleam in her eyes. “I was trying to eavesdrop, hon. I have no shame about that. I don’t care about you dumping him because that was the best choice for both of you. He’s a nice guy, but he’s got just a tad too much ego. Anyway, only thing I care about is that bullshit about Shannon. Don’t you even worry about it,” she said, her words becoming fierce with her last sentence.

  I rolled my eyes and shrugged. “I knew Shannon was back because Lucy heard about it and told me. I’m not worried, except for the fact she’ll be stirring up some shit. Does she even know Cade and I are back together?”

  Janet returned the eye roll. “She does as of this morning. I made sure to tell her when she showed up here with her sister. Trust me, she looked surprised. Can’t say I blame her. If she had her ear to the ground, the news you’d bolted on Earl would’ve traveled to her slowly since she’s been in Anchorage. I don’t give a damn, but she pissed me off before, and I told her that today. I swear, her sister annoys the hell out of me. Gayle isn’t a bitch, but she stands by and watches her little sister be one. Least she could do is call her out on her shit. Since she won’t, I will.”

  I stared at Janet and almost burst out laughing. Everything with Cade was so fragile and new, it worried me knowing Shannon had blown into town again. I didn’t trust her. At all. But I didn’t mind having friends like Janet get my back. As far as I was concerned, Shannon getting shamed for what she’d done wouldn’t be a bad thing. What I couldn’t figure out was why Shannon was so stuck on Cade.

  I took a gulp of my coffee and bit back my bitter laugh. “Thanks Janet. I know you’ve got my back. I’m just hoping she gets the message loud and clear. I’m not up for dealing with her. I’m really not.”

  Janet waved her hand dismissively and spun around when the bell dinged at the server counter. She snagged my ham and cheese roll and handed it over on a plate. “You have nothing to worry about. But people gossip, and they like drama. You and Cade have given them plenty to talk about, but Shannon showing up like this stirs up ugly shit. Ignore it. Don’t believe anything you hear. Cade loves you. He always did. Time and distance made you both stupid.”

  I sensed someone approaching from behind, so I stepped to the side. “I’ll do my best. Thanks for being you.”

  Janet waved me off. “Go sit down and dry off.”

  Chapter 26

  Cade

  I leaned against the inside of the garage bay door at the front of the fire station and dragged my sleeve across my face. I’d spent the last few hours tuning up my old favorite motorcycle.

  “See you got your old bike ready to roll again.”

  I glanced up to find Beck entering the garage from a side door. “Yup. My dad pulled it out of the back of my parents’ garage o
ver the weekend and dropped it off here for me to tune up.”

  Beck came to lean beside me, casting an approving gaze over the bike. I loved this motorcycle. It was an old Indian and couldn’t be purchased new anymore. Just finding one used cost an arm and a leg and then some. When I’d moved to California, I left this bike behind, figuring I wouldn’t have time to ride. I’d found time, but I hadn’t wanted to bring this baby there. At the time, I’d hated the fact I thought of Amelia whenever I thought of this bike, but that’s how it was. I’d logged more miles on it with her than without. Now I could enjoy it and enjoy thinking about her. Win, win.

  Beck rolled his head to the side with a slow grin. “Damn fine bike. Didn’t know you’d left this thing in storage up here the whole time. I’d have been happy to ride her for you.”

  I chuckled and shook my head. “Dude, you can use my other bike, but not this one.”

  Beck shrugged. “Oh well. You’d best not leave it here. Too tempting for someone else to ride.”

  “No worries. I planned to take it out to Amelia’s place tonight. Figured today was a good day to tune it up, seeing as the weather sucks. Rain’s finally stopped though, so I can enjoy the ride without rain.”

  Beck nodded and slipped his hands in his pockets. “I popped in to let you know Shannon’s out front asking to see you. This is when it’s nice Maisie’s so cranky. I happened to be passing by, and she told Shannon you hadn’t mentioned anyone stopping in for a meeting with that stone cold don’t give a damn look she throws around,” Beck said with a low laugh.

  “What the fuck is Shannon doing here?” I asked, running a hand through my hair and kicking my heel against the garage door behind me. The sound of my boot hitting the heavy-duty steel door sent an echo through the cavernous garage. Not only did I not want to deal with Shannon, but now I had to worry about how Amelia might react.

  Beck shrugged. “Hell if I know. She sat herself down and said she’d wait. Want me to chase her off?”

  I shook my head. “Nah. I’ll deal with it. Dude, I haven’t seen Shannon since she pulled that shit trying to hook up with me. Fuck, I’d better tell Amelia.”

  I slipped my phone out of my pocket and punched in a text.

  No idea what’s up. Shannon’s here. Figured you might want to know.

  I looked to Beck and rolled my eyes. “Any suggestions on how to get her to get a fucking clue?”

  Beck shrugged. “Dude, you are way more experienced with relationships than me.”

  I threw a faux glare Beck’s way. “Man, the only relationship I’ve ever had was and is with Amelia. I’d say you’re way more experienced at chasing off women than me.”

  Beck started laughing, and my phone beeped.

  I glanced down to see Amelia’s response.

  Ugh. Forgot to tell you last night. Lucy heard she’s back.

  I tapped out a swift reply.

  Uh, coulda told me. Heads up would’ve been nice.

  Uh, we were busy. With much better things.

  I grinned and could practically see her grin. So true. We’d been quite busy with each other.

  Right. Things we’ll be busy with later. Meantime, she showed up here at the station. Beck’s not so helpful telling me how to chase her off.

  Tell her to go to hell.

  I glanced up at Beck. “Amelia says to tell her to go to hell.”

  Beck grinned. “Sounds like a plan.”

  I looked back at my phone screen.

  On it. Where are you?

  Firehouse Café. What time will you be home?

  Damn. A simple question, and my heart kicked so hard, my chest ached. I loved this woman so damn much. Home was Amelia, and she wanted to know when I’d be there.

  Just have to tell Shannon to go to hell. Then I’m taking my bike home. Ride tonight?

  YES! 

  Grinning, I slipped my phone back in my pocket to find Beck’s perceptive gaze on me.

  “What?” I asked.

  “Dude, you are whipped. Damn good thing you came home,” Beck said.

  Just a few shorts months ago, I’d have glared at anyone who even proposed the idea I might be whipped by any woman. Hell, I’d been so bitter, I didn’t even give myself many opportunities for even casual sex. Here and there, I’d caved because I was a man and I had needs. But it had always come up short because no one, absolutely no one, could live up to what I had with Amelia. I was so fucking relieved we were back together.

  I met Beck’s amused gaze with a shrug. “Sure am.” I pushed away from the door. “I’m gonna go tell Shannon to go to hell and then head home.”

  Beck walked alongside me. “You sound downright cheerful about it.”

  I paused at the door into the front area and clapped Beck on the shoulder. “You just haven’t met the right woman. You will and then you’ll get it.”

  At that, I pushed through the door, Beck muttering behind me. “Whatever dude.”

  I strode past Maisie’s desk. She managed not to glare at me, which I considered progress on her part. Shannon sat in one of the chairs in the waiting area. She stood quickly when she saw me. “Cade! I can’t believe you’re home.”

  Shannon started to walk toward me, stopping when I held a hand up. I knew Shannon was used to catching attention from men. Objectively speaking, she was beautiful with her long dark hair, bright blue eyes, and curvy figure. She didn’t do a thing for me, but I wasn’t blind. I’d never mentioned it to Amelia way back when, but I’d never quite understood her friendship with Shannon. Shannon was too competitive, too pushy.

  Shannon’s over-the-top smile faded when I held my hand up like a damn stop sign. She stood where she was and clasped her hands together. I could practically see the gears shifting in her brain.

  “Hey Shannon. Just came out here to tell you to go to hell.”

  I spun on my heel, ignoring her gasp as I strode back to the door.

  Footsteps sounded rapidly behind me, and she grabbed my arm. “Cade! I can’t believe…”

  I spun back. Now I was pissed. “Don’t fucking touch me. There was never anything with us and never will be. I’m home, and I’m back with Amelia. You won’t be able to pull a stunt like the one you did before with your bullshit.”

  I shook her hand off of my arm and stepped to the door. Shannon was silent with two bright spots of color high on her cheeks. Resignation was evident on her face. I glanced to Maisie. “Maisie, there will never be a circumstance when Shannon would have my permission to be here unless it’s an actual emergency. Please don’t allow her in the back under any circumstance.”

  Maisie held my gaze, her wide brown eyes firm. She nodded emphatically. “Of course. I already told her today she couldn’t go back, but now I know for sure.”

  Shannon’s eyes darkened. “Fuck you, Cade. You can’t…”

  “Don’t even try it. I don’t know what your deal is, and frankly, I don’t give a shit. If you upset Amelia in any way, you’ll regret it.”

  I walked past her and opened the entry door, gesturing for her to leave. She flounced past me, but didn’t say another word. I let the door fall closed and turned back. Maisie was studiously looking at something on her computer screen.

  I walked to the reception desk and glanced over the counter at her. “Thanks Maisie.”

  She looked up, and for the first time, I saw a hint, just the barest glimmer, of uncertainty under her prickly bravado. “You’re welcome. You’re really good about letting me know your schedule, so when she showed up I figured you didn’t have an appointment with her.” She paused and chewed on the inside of her cheek, her gaze considering. “I really want to do a good job. I’m sorry you guys had to tell me to be nicer,” she blurted out.

  “Maisie, you already do a good job. You’re responsible, on time and you haven’t missed a single day of work. We’re all appreciative that you’re trying to be a little friendlier. Trust me, we all have our days.” I paused and threw her a grin. “If you want to be cranky with Shannon, have
at it.”

  “I won’t be too bitchy, but you tell me if she bothers Amelia, and I’ll kick her ass. I can actually fight,” Maisie said with a sly grin.

  I laughed so hard, I got tears in my eyes. When I caught my breath, Beck was walking through the door from the garage, glancing between us as if we were aliens.

  “What the hell? You smile?” Beck asked, his startled gaze swinging to Maisie.

  Maisie immediately flushed and looked back down at her computer. I looked to Beck. “Maisie offered to kick Shannon’s ass.”

  It was Beck’s turn to laugh, and I was relieved to see Maisie’s small smile reappear.

  Chapter 27

  Amelia

  I rested my cheek against Cade’s back as we rode along a winding road that headed toward the ocean. Willow Brook wasn’t right on the coast, but it was roughly a half hour away. I’d been anxious for Cade to get home once he’d told me he had his bike. We’d taken many trips—short and long—on this very motorcycle before. I hadn’t even known he still owned it, but apparently this bike, his favorite, had been stored in the back of his parents’ garage all this time.

  He’d purchased a new helmet for me on his way home, announcing he couldn’t find the old one I’d used years ago. With my arms looped about his waist, I lifted my head and savored the cool summer air. This road avoided Anchorage entirely and skipped down to the shoreline along Cook Inlet, the wide inlet from the Gulf of Alaska in the Pacific Ocean that stretched inland to Anchorage. We were headed towards a viewing point along Turnagain Arm, the aptly named branch off the inlet the road followed, turning again and again and again along the water’s edge.

  As we traveled south from Willow Brook, the woodsy mountain air started to mingle with the crisp, salty ocean breezes. I felt as if I were sipping the scents of life when I rode on the back of Cade’s motorcycle. The trees started to thin and the view opened up as we reached Turnagain Arm, which offered a view nothing short of spectacular with the feet of the mountains kissing the water’s edge. The engine rumbled as Cade downshifted and eased onto a narrow side road almost hidden by the trees. Turnagain Arm itself was a busy place for traffic all summer long, seeing as it was the only way for travelers to get from Anchorage onto the Alaskan playground that was the Kenai Peninsula. The Kenai Peninsula was home to rivers, the ocean, sparkling bays and several communities that catered to tourists, chief among them Diamond Creek and Homer.