by Ellen March
“Promise not to hit me again?” Micah waited. He wasn’t taking any chances with this volatile she-cat.
“Not at the moment I won’t.” The blood surged through her veins as he released them. She cupped his face and slowly trailed her thumb over the red mark on his cheek.
A grin tugged at his lips. “You pack a mean punch.”
“You deserved it. What if I was busy getting friendly and personal with another male?” Savannah paused. “Don’t bother answering.” She already knew he wouldn’t care.
“I’d break him,” he said, not needing to consider the question. His dark gaze speared her and he rose. “Now, Anna, I intend to make love to you. I don’t want any unexpected visitors.” He was referring to Charu. Without another word, he gathered her in his arms.
She frowned. “Where are you taking me? Or more to the point, what are you doing?”
“I’m taking you to my room, and then, Anna, I intend taking pleasure in that sweet body of yours.” He took a stride towards the door.
“Er, no. Please, Micah, I can’t.”
Annoyance gripped his features. “Why not?” he all but growled, stilling at her words.
“Well, come on, your attitude. And you come up here reeking of Charu, even admitting you kissed her.”
He shrugged. “So? It’s not her I want to fuck.”
His crude words seared, cutting deep. Not “make love,” but “fuck.” And therein lay the problem. When she gave herself, it would be to someone who would cherish her, love and desire every inch of her body. And by Christ, there was a lot of meterage to cover.
What she didn’t want was a “fuck.”
Especially with someone who had made it clear he wasn’t going to be staying around.
“Put me down, Micah.” Even to her own ears the words came out sad and lonely. “Nothing is going to happen between us. You do whatever you want with Charu, but I’ll say this just once: stay away from me.”
He hesitated before setting her down, allowing her body to slide down over his. “Anna? What is it?”
She gave a choked laugh. Heck, he didn’t even know. For him, sex was just a way of eating off the hoof—screw and move on. Savannah shook her head. “Nothing you’d understand. Let’s leave it at that.”
“I can’t, Anna.”
She swallowed. “Why do you call me Anna?”
He hesitated and shrugged his huge shoulders. “I like it.”
“My brother calls me that.” Suddenly she was feeling homesick and missing him.
“What’s wrong?” He quietly watched her face. She was so transparent, she could never be a poker player.
“I’m missing Cato.” Savannah tried unsuccessfully to keep the tremble out of her voice.
“But you’ve spoken to him?”
She nodded. “It’s not the same as seeing him.”
A knowing grin tugged at his lips. “How about we go and visit. I’ll drive you down tomorrow.”
Her face broke into an electric, bright smile, her eyes dancing with pleasure. “You mean you’d do that for me?”
The heady animation on her face slammed into him. It was such a childlike response. It also irritated him that she would be grateful for such a small thing.
“Hell, yes.”
Savannah’s gaze swept over him. She scrubbed her hand through his short hair and reached up to tug his head down and plant a kiss on his forehead.
Micah felt a tremor. It had been a long time since anyone had done that to him. Only his mother.
“I’m so glad we’ve got our disagreement out of the way,” muttered Savannah tiredly. Exhaustion was swamping her, making her lids heavy.
Micah scooped her up into his arms. “We haven’t. You’re still not dancing again.”
“Whatever,” she muttered, giving in for the moment. He doesn’t stop, she thought, and closed her eyes. “What are you doing?”
“Putting you to bed.”
“Okay,” she mumbled, suddenly bone tired. Comfy and safe, his chest beneath her head and his arms wrapped around her, she slept.
Grinning, Micah headed to his bedroom.
At least he’d have her curled into him. He just hoped that soon he’d get to enjoy her body. The best prizes are worth waiting for, he thought.
He’d remind her of his directive, that no way was she baring her ass to any other man. Snagging her close, he drew her close and dropped a kiss on her forehead. “Sleep, sweet lady.”
His eyes closed.
***
It was late when they woke. Or to be exact, when she woke him, leaning over to lick his lips. She flicked her tongue across them, her chocolate gaze wicked and snapping.
It had been years since Micah had slept so long, so deep. He’d had no thoughts, none at all. And all the while he’d remained curled around Savannah.
“Morning. This is getting to be a bit of a habit.” She smiled up into his dark eyes that held a hint of confusion. Slowly she traced a finger down his face. “You really are the top when it comes to curling around me.”
“And you’d know that?” He bridled with territorial anger.
“Nope, but I can’t see anyone being better than you,” she said, tapping him gently on his nose. “And stop being so macho.”
“I can’t help it.” He rolled her beneath him, and his tongue slaked across her skin in a long sweep. “I love the taste of you, baby.”
“Mmm, this is the way to wake up, in the arms of a sexy male.”
“Glad you think so,” muttered Micah, as he burrowed into her throat, sucking hard.
“What’s the time?” she managed to ask, before her breathing grew too shallow.
“Don’t worry, I intend to take advantage of you.” His head dropped and his lips continued their assault on her lips.
Her hands gripped his jaw, and she grinned up at him, amazed at how utterly sexy he looked this early in the morning. “So, Micah, what’s next?”
“What do you think?” His chuckle bounced around the room.
“Think we might have to agree to disagree there.”
His sigh ripped out. “Just great. I can’t persuade you to have a morning shag?”
“No, especially not how it’s phrased, as if I’m a hooker.”
“But—”
“But nothing, Micah. You need to learn the art of fine dating.”
“What I need is a shrink,” he muttered beneath his breath. “Either that, or a load of bromide. “
“Then stop sneaking into bed with me.”
Chapter Twelve
It was late when they eventually moved downstairs, mainly due to Micah’s attempts to seduce her and her own resolve that was weakening by the hour. But she was aware that although he’d tried to convince her, he hadn’t pushed her, despite his obvious desire.
“So, did you mean that?” she asked, looking up at him. She wondered if he’d been playing her.
“What?” he turned with a frown and paused.
“Taking me to see Cato?”
He nodded. “Of course. We can make it a day out.”
“Good, I’d like that.” Savannah continued ahead of him towards the kitchen.
Charu looked up from her coffee. Her pale eyes splintered over them. She attempted to smell sex on Savannah, and despite the fact she couldn’t, was still livid.
Savannah poured a cup from the espresso maker and flicked the toaster on. “We’ll be out most of the day. I’m going to visit my brother.”
Charu arched a brow. “Both of you?”
“I’m driving,” said Micah, taking the proffered mug of coffee off Savannah. He looked at the black syrup, and when he tasted it, a shudder broke over him.
Her brows rose enquiringly. “Too strong?”
“I love it,” he lied. No way was he starting off on the wrong foot today.
“Good.” She smeared butter on the blackened toast and offered him one. “I hate picky eaters.”
Micah was extremely fussy but wisely took it. Crunching o
n the charred offering, he managed not to grimace.
***
It was only when they sat in the car that Micah realized how low the petrol gauge was. He was certain that Rio had deliberately put only a certain amount in, making sure he couldn’t go far in search of sex. His so-called friend was one mean son of a bitch.
He glanced towards Savannah.
She was busily tugging at the seatbelt, hauling it across her large chest. Finally she turned to him and waited. “Well, are we going?”
Micah felt a ridiculous surge of embarrassment, something he never suffered from. “Er, we’ll need to stop for fuel.”
She looked up at him. “Yep, these things generally need petrol, and your problem?”
He spat the words out. “I’ve got no money.”
Her mouth rolled into a wide “Oh.” She was used to not having money. Yet from this man it didn’t sit straight. Savannah could guess what it was costing his male arrogance. Yet she felt a surge of pride that he was going without for the sake of his sister.
“It’s okay, I’ll pay,” she said. “After all, you’re taking me.” She fished in her large bag and checked her purse. “Voilà.” Savannah brandished her bank card. “Kitty left me some money.” Her light giggle filled the car. “I’ve never had any spare cash in the bank before.”
Micah flushed, feeling a rare rush of guilt at his deceit. How he was taking her money when she obviously had so little.
Savannah mistook his colour for embarrassment and patted his heavy thigh. “I’ll treat us to lunch out as well.” She gave a pensive sigh. “Your sister must be so proud of you. For what you are doing for her, going without. Supporting her.” A Madonna smile lit up her face and she was silent for a moment. “I really admire that.”
Micah winced at her words and started the engine. Steering down the drive, he tried to shift her thoughts away from his non-existent sibling. “Did you ring Cato to say we’re coming?”
“Yep, did it earlier. He’s not working today.” She returned to her earlier talk. “How many months along is she?”
Micah frowned and glanced to her. “Who?”
“Your sister?” Savannah flashed him a men-can-be-so-dense smile. Smugly superior, sweet, and sugary.
“Er, about six months.” Micah wished she’d stop digging.
“Does she know the sex yet?”
He shook his head. “No, wanted a surprise.” Micah knew that when Savannah discovered the truth she was going to have one hell of a surprise as well.
“Think I’d want to know.” She chewed thoughtfully on a single much-nibbled-on nail.
Curious, Micah glanced across at her. “Would you like children?”
“Maybe, but Cato was like a son to me. I was busy mothering him after our parents died.” She fussed with her bottom lip, mindful of the cut. “Think I’d like to do some things I missed out on.”
Micah frowned, realizing she hadn’t had it easy. “Like what?” he asked.
“Learn to swim, for one. I had a phobia of water as a child. By the time I’d had counselling and got over it I was looking after Cato.”
“Why didn’t you learn then?”
“Couldn’t afford lessons,” she said matter-of-factly. Her face brightened when they passed a herd of horses grazing in the fields alongside the lane. “And I’d like to learn to ride. I love horses.”
Micah didn’t mention he had a string of them, ranging from polo ponies to racing thoroughbreds. It was a passion of his. “Are there any trekking centres nearby? Maybe we could hire some?” he asked.
“You’ve got no money, remember?” she reminded him.
“I’ll get an advance,” he quipped.
Savannah poked her tongue out.
He reverted back to his earlier question. “So, I take it that’s a no for children?”
She shrugged. “I need a man first.”
“You’ve got one. Me.” His mood instantly darkened.
“Are you saying you want to give me babies?” she teased.
Micah coughed and almost choked.
Savannah burst out laughing at the look of horror on his face. “Hey, I’ve gone this length of time without sex. Give me a chance.”
Selfishly Micah was suddenly thankful for the fact she’d lived the life she had. That she hadn’t lain beneath another man. He felt a surge of shock at how possessive he was becoming.
All of a sudden every waking thought, every emotion, was centring on this wild, crazy woman.
***
After several incorrect turns they finally pulled up outside the terraced house. His temper was simmering after she’d sent him along several wrong routes.
“Can’t you get anything right?” he snapped. “I can’t believe anyone can be so dense.”
It had been less than half an hour before they began arguing.
She shot him yet another black look. “Shut the hell up and drive. Anyone would swear I did it deliberately.”
“Well, I’d have thought you’d know the way to your own house,” he shouted with a shake of his head.
“Not from this direction, and besides, we’ve moved around a bit.”
“That’s no excuse, and why keep moving?”
She spun him a glare and rolled her eyes. “It’s obvious, isn’t it? To get away from people you don’t want to see.”
He still didn’t get it. “Like who?”
“Debt collectors, of course. Haven’t you had the same problem?” She yanked at the car door, not waiting for an answer. She was eager to see her brother.
Micah followed, trying to hide his disgust at where she lived and unable to digest the type of life she’d led.
The place was tiny. He felt like a character out of Alice in wonderland. His huge size made it appear even smaller. He stood at the entrance to the lounge, watching how she wrapped her brother in a mammoth hug.
Cato sent him a wink and patiently waited for her to release him.
“I’ve missed you,” she said, swiping at a happy tear.
Micah shook his head, a grin tugging at his lips. She was so emotional it beggared belief.
“Have you been eating okay? I’m sure you’ve lost weight,” she fussed, standing back to study him.
“Actually, I’ll put it on now that you’ve stopped cooking for me.” He turned to Micah, who was leaning against the door jamb, relaxed. “Don’t ever let her make you food. She’s a disaster in the kitchen.”
“Shut up.” Savannah threw him a playful punch.
Wisely, Micah didn’t comment.
“So what’s the reason for the visit?” Cato noticed how Micah shadowed his sister’s every move. How his gaze constantly hungered over her.
“To see you, of course.” She slumped onto the threadbare settee and Micah joined her, his arm casually thrown over her shoulder. For someone who didn’t do touching without sex it was becoming a constant need.
“You calling into the café?” He sat opposite, admiring Micah. Even if he wasn’t gay, there was no harm in looking.
“Might do, show Micah where I worked.” At his quizzical glance she explained, “I waitressed there.”
Cato suddenly noticed the watch on Micah’s wrist. Watches were his passion. His eyes widened. “That’s not what I think it is?” he said, indicating it with his head.
Micah froze. He’d forgotten about it. And stalled for time, thinking up a convincing answer. “What?”
“That watch, a Breitling Chronomat 41 if I’m not mistaken.” He raised his eyes. “Around ten grand apiece?”
“You know your brands, and yes, you’re correct, but it’s a fake, unfortunately,” he said, lying with ease.
Savannah burst out laughing, and taking his wrist, examined it. “Really, Cato, where would Micah have that much money from? You can tell it’s not real.”
Cato glanced over it. It wasn’t fake, and his sister knew jack shit about watches. But he kept quiet. He also checked out the leather shoes Micah wore. Designer and expensive, along with th
e understated jeans and T-shirt. Cato was an expert in fashion and jewellery. He wondered just who Micah really was.
Because no way was he broke.
Yet Micah gave nothing away. His expression remained cool and calm.
“So how is the club doing?” Cato switched the subject. “Did you discover anything in that ledger? There’s something wrong there, Anna, so be careful.”
Immediately Micah was on the alert. “What are you talking about?”
“It’s nothing,” said Savannah. “Cato is being a drama queen, that’s all.”
“What ledger?” Micah wasn’t leaving it go.
“I found it in the office. The club is supposed to be losing money. Yet from what I saw, it’s the opposite—making a lot. Well, at least there’s plenty coming in.”
Micah didn’t like the sound of things and was instantly suspicious. He’d seen enough businesses deliberately run down some to sell on cheap. He was inclined to agree with Cato. “Show it to me when we get back.”
He didn’t ask but commanded, Cato noticed. Obviously a man used to people obeying him, to giving orders.
Cato held back a smile. And he was with Savannah?
Big mistake. She’d never been the obedient type.
***
“We’ll walk across to the café. It’s not far,” said Savannah, leading the way down the pavement that ran along the avenue. She smiled when she felt his fingers link with hers and give her hand a squeeze. It was good, just like they were a regular boyfriend and girlfriend. She glanced up at the goliath strolling alongside her. He was huge and utterly gorgeous.
Though each hour she spent in his company weakened her resolve, she still wasn’t ready to make love to him. She couldn’t understand herself. Why the hell was she holding back? Christ, she wanted him, knew he was up for it. So what was she waiting for?
A hesitant smile curled her mouth. She knew what she wanted—a forever man. But males like Micah would never be into her, at least not for the long term.
Savannah pointed to the red banner waving in the breeze. “That’s where I worked.”
They were headed towards the entrance when a familiar figure emerged.
Slade came to a halt.
Didn’t miss the familiarity between them. He was determined to move quicker; he’d show her what a real man could do. His sunglasses concealing his jealousy, he smiled. “Well, well, Savannah thought we’d seen the last of you here?”
