You're the One That I Want

You’re the One That I Want By Dahlia Rose Copyright © July 2011, Dahlia Rose Cover art by For the Muse Designs © July 2011 ISBN 978-1-936668-22-9 This is a work of fiction. All characters and events portrayed in this novel are fictitious or used fictitiously. All rights reserved, including the right to reproduce this book, or portions thereof, in any form. Sugar and Spice Press North Carolina, USA www.sugarnspicepress.com

You’re the One That I Want

Dahlia Rose

Chapter One Savannah humidity was hell in the summer. From the time the sun rose and well after it set, it was oppressive in the city. Every time you took a breath in, the air was thick and along with the smell of rich earth, flowers and the river blended together. It all became a potent mixture that Sasha loved. Savannah was her home. She lived in a third floor apartment in the historic district of the area, and the house she lived in was actually part of the ghost tours that went by day and night. For fun she usually sat out on her balcony wearing a wispy white dress and used a lace fan to cool herself. She made the tourists think it was one of the spectral beings, especially late at night. It had become so customary that now the ghost tours paid her three times a week to sit and look ghostly. The music around her brought her out of her musings, and the people smiling and laughing reminded her why she was here. Today was her parents’ fiftieth anniversary, and this was their party. Sasha and her sisters planned this event together over the telephone. Raina and Jonelle didn’t live in Savannah. They both chose to leave as soon as they could. She was the baby of the three and choosing to stay in savannah meant that she would be in the same town as her parents, unlike her sisters. Luckily they lived far enough away so they couldn’t just pop in at inopportune times. Raina was the oldest and now she stood talking with one of their older uncles. Jonelle was the middle child, and then it was Sasha. Her sisters were both studious and successful, while she was still working on her thesis for her masters in architecture. She could understand why Raina moved away at an early age. Mom and Dad both worked so she was in charge of taking care of her younger siblings. They put so much on her plate she broke free of the cage and moved on to live her own life. Jonelle was the epitome of the middle child syndrome. Everything about her was perfection, and it was either one hundred percent or nothing at all. While Sasha was the one who got pat on the head and sent off to play. Even now with her degree so close it felt as if she was still being coddled. Maybe it was the cause of her personality. She tended to see everything in life through rose-colored glasses. Last week she should’ve 1

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been working on her thesis. Instead she flew to Amsterdam on a whim and bungeed from a bridge. She loved her life the way it was. At this point in her life there was fun to be had. There would be time enough for serious things. Her dream was to blend the old world history of Savannah with new contemporary architecture and start her own business. But until then she was going to live her life to the fullest. So far she had been asked umpteen thousand times when she was going to settle down and behave. “Study like your sisters and stop catting around,” her aunt Maggie had said pointedly. Instead of saying something snippy she turned with the excuse of checking on the caterers. She was not one for biting her tongue, but today was her parents’ day. Sasha’s eyes found her mother and father who stood talking to guests and holding hands. Her mom waved, and she wiggled her fingers in greeting. Even after fifty years they still looked at each other with love in their eyes. Sasha wished she could find someone to spend half a century with at some point. But now she liked her life just the way it was. The gift the three of them gave their parents went off with perfection. It was an envelope that carried tickets to a world cruise that would take them away from Savannah for six months. It cost a pretty penny, but it was worth it to see Charles and Gloria Caroway’s face. Plus it would get her mother who was not retired from out of her hair for a little bit. She loved her parents deeply, but having Mom stopping by unexpectedly to make a casserole and then ask questions about her thesis, certainly not Sasha’s idea of fun. The stress of it had her popping Tums like they were candy. Of course Mom would say “You just take your time, dear. Our little Sasha takes a bit more time to do things.” That made it worse because then she felt as if she had to finish it to prove them wrong. She was more than just “little-pat-on-the-head Sasha”. Then she would feel guilt for falling into a role that she didn’t want to play. I’m twenty-five for goodness sake. Why do I have to try and fit an assumed mold! she thought furiously. Yes, she had dreams, and she planned to live them all in her own time. 2

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“Trying to stay out of the fray?” Sasha hadn’t even noticed her sisters come up beside her she was so deep in thought. Jonelle was the one who spoke. Sasha smiled and said from behind her champagne glass, “Trying not to kill Aunt Maggie and stash her in the coal cellar.” “Does this place have a coal cellar?” Raina asked. “I could kill Uncle Chester and stash him too.” Sasha giggled, and Jonelle sighed. “Look at you two planning our relatives’ demise.” “Who do you want under a pile of coal, Jo?” Sasha asked sweetly. “Little goody two shoes, Sandra and her obnoxious husband Brad,” Jonelle said. “If I have to hear one more time about how he is doing so well in the stock market and they bought a new house I will take a croquet bat to….” She stopped, and all three of them burst out laughing. It was good to be here with them. Sasha knew they didn’t spend enough time together, but when they did there was fun to be had. She looked at Raina who sipped from a bottle of Perrier water, and she waved her fingers in her face. “Hey, smarty pants, what’s going on with you, what’s all this in your face, secrets, secrets huh?” Raina’s eyes widened in surprise, but she quickly masked it. “I don’t know what you mean?” “Yeah you do.” Sasha snorted. “You’re just not telling.” “How’s the thesis coming along?” Raina said tartly. The topic made Sasha grit her teeth. “Don’t start with me either on that.” “Sasha, it’s been eight months. I had my studies done in four,” Jonelle pointed out. “When are you going to grow up?” “Gold star for you, sis.” Sasha raised her glass in a mock toast. “I’m grown, Jonelle. Just because I don’t schlep in an office all day does not mean I’m not. I chose to live my life how I want it. I don’t mind yours, so don’t be in mine.”

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“Calm down, Midget.” Jonelle tried to wrap her arm around Sasha, and she shrugged her away. “Come on. I’m kidding. I know you have that wanderlust. Don’t be mad, midget girl.” Sasha tried to hide her smile behind her glass and muttered, “Don’t call me that.” Raina got in on the teasing and hugged her tight, rocking back and forth crooning, “Midget baby, don’t you cry.” “You’re smothering me with your boobs,” Sasha squeaked. Jonelle came up behind her and they squished her in the middle of what they used to call a super hug when they were growing up. “You’re our Midget musketeer, one for all and all for one.” “And three for one dollar!” Sasha yelled. “Those are my girls. Look at how close they are,” their father called out and turned everyone’s attention to their super hug. Her laughter was muffled between her taller sisters, and it blended with theirs. They always managed to make her feel better, and no matter which state they lived in, no one could ask for better siblings. Putting her thoughts aside for the night, she let her sisters hug heal her grouchy mood, and she was once again Sasha with stardust in her hair. For now this was how she liked her life, and it was exactly who she wanted to be. **** The party broke up around nine when her parents left. Raina and Jonelle headed back to their hotel, and Sasha got in her car to head for home. She left the top down to her Copper convertible and drove through the Savannah night. The streets were still packed, and tourists walked the well-worn paths and music filtered through the air. She heard the horn of the steamboat that headed down the river and the live jazz music from the square. Even after the night’s festivities she felt restless. Her extended family never failed to leave her tense and pent up. A voice boomed out of a megaphone. “Folk singing and karaoke tonight at Faraday’s Irish Pub!”

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She was going slowly over the cobblestone on River Street. There was no way to drive fast on the uneven pathway, and you had to watch out for the throngs of sightseers who walked the area at night. Impulsively she pulled her car into an open parking spot and after putting the top up, and locking her car, she headed on foot to the Irish pub. She’d hung out with friends and had a few Guinness at Faraday’s more than once. It had a nice atmosphere, and right now she needed to let loose for a little bit. In only a few minutes she was sitting at the bar and waiting for the bartender to get to her. He was at the end of the bar and while Sasha waited she let her mind wander. So much so that it took her completely by surprise when he tapped on the polished mahogany bar to get her attention. “What’ll it be, miss?” His voice held the thick sweet sound of a pure Irish accent. “Guinness in a glass and a shot of Yager,” she said automatically. “That’s a strong combination for such a tiny thing,” he replied with a wink. “I can manage,” Sasha said. “Where’s Jimmy? He is usually at the bar.” “He broke his leg on that bike of his, so I’m going to be pitching in,” the bartender responded to her question. “You one of his girls?” Sasha had to laugh. Jimmy was known for his charm with the ladies, tourists and natives of Savannah alike. Yet there was nothing about him that drew her to him except for friendship. The new bartender slid her drinks in front of her on two cocktail napkins. “No, Jimmy is my friend and that’s it. I think he probably has someone feeding him grapes by now.” “Good to know… I mean that you’re not one of his girlfriends that is.” He stuck out his hand. “Adrian Faraday. Owner of an Irish pub and pleased to make your acquaintance.” Sasha took his hand and watched as his fingers enveloped hers. “Sasha Caroway, night time spooky ghost girl and other stuff when the mood suits me.” He grinned. “A mystery woman, I like that.” 5

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“I try my best.” She lifted the shot of Yager in a toast before she downed it easily. The licorice taste filled her mouth and warmed her tummy as it hit her center. He was called down to the end of the bar, and he gave her a smile. “Don’t go anywhere, mystery woman. I’ll be right back.” She nodded and watched as he moved away. There was a swagger to his body that she liked. Adrian Faraday had to be at least six foot two, and his blond hair had hints of red blended in. He kept it cut low, and even though it was night time he had a pair of sunglasses pushed back into his hairline. He probably forgot they were there since this afternoon. His face was rugged and clean shaven, and a quick almost devilish smile graced his face when he talked to the new customers ordering drinks. He struck her as laid back and handsome as hell. It probably took a lot to get him riled up. He was sexy, and when he caught her looking at him, Adrian winked. She felt a familiar stirring in her center, and suddenly she was glad she stopped there instead of heading home. The folk music began, and the crowd in the bar cheered. The lively beat had her tapping her feet and clapping along by the time he came back in her direction. She watched as he poured too drinks and took off his bar apron and handed it over to another man and came to sit beside her. “Try this. I think you might like it,” he said he pushed the drink in front of her.“On the house.” Sasha sniffed the glass and wrinkled her nose. “I am not a huge whiskey fan.” “But, darling, it’s Irish whiskey. Do I need to tell you how the maker fought a giant squid to retrieve one barrel when it fell overboard in a storm?” Adrian asked. Sasha laughed. “Oh that bull I saw that on the TV ad, you are trying to feed me a line.” “You saw that, huh?” He smiled. “Try it anyway, I dare you.” “How do you know I will accept the challenge?” He leaned forward until his lips were close to her ear. “I don’t think there’s a challenge you have ever refused. Am I right?” 6

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His words tickled her ear and caused a delicious sensation to run down her back. Their gazes met and without a word she took the glass and downed the drink. It burned its way down her throat, and along with the Guinness and Yager she felt the buzzing in her head. While she had no problem being drunk, she was alone with no friends to drive her home or have her back. She would be careful what she consumed for the rest of the night. “So, ghostly girl, what else do you do?” Adrian asked. He took up his own shot and drank it down smoothly. “I’m working on my thesis in architectural engineering. Eventually I want to open my own business,” Sasha replied. “I honestly can say I’ve been in here a few times and never saw you before. Why is that if you’re the owner?” “My uncle owned the pub. He passed and the lawyers contacted me over in Dublin where I own the sister pub. They are now both mine, so I’ll be going back and forth,” Adrian answered easily. “I mainly lived in Dublin since my mother was there. She passed as well, and I decided to stay here for a bit. I needed the change.” Sasha nodded. “Change can be good.” “I’m looking at you and thinking the exact same thing.” He called the bar girl over, and she came with two more glasses of whiskey. Adrian slid one in her direction. “I really shouldn’t drink anymore.” Sasha pushed it away. “As it is I’m going to be walking home or taking a cab.” “I will make sure you get home ok,” Adrian replied smoothly. Sasha gave him a direct look. “For all I know, Mr. Adrian Faraday, you could be trying to get me drunk to have your way with me. I don’t think I know you well enough to put my life and body in your hands.” “Do you want to get to know me?” he asked. She loved the way words seem to roll off his tongue. With the Irish brogue he could probably read the back of a cereal box and make it sound sexy. Sasha nodded. “There might be a possibility that I want to.” 7

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“I definitely want to find out more about Sasha Caroway, so here’s what I’m going to do. He pulled his cell phone from his pocket and handed it to her. “Press number three.” Her curiosity was peeked so she did as he asked and put the cell up to her ear. The voice on the line came up and announced “Savanna Police Department.” “Ask for Detective Jordan Kovak,” he told her. Two can play that game, she thought. She knew a few people from the police department as well. She placed her finger in her ear and said, “Hello, can I be put through to Detective Sandra Rhodes, badge number two- five, seven- nine- four please.” He raised an eyebrow at her, and Sasha smiled sweetly. When her call was patched through and she heard her friend’s voice on the line. “Sandra, hey it’s Sasha. I was hoping you were on tonight. Listen is there a Jordan Kovak in your division?” She listened to the answer from her friend. “Ok, cool, and he is not crazy or anything, right? Thanks. I’m talking to Adrian Faraday who wants to walk me home from the pub. He knows Jordan Kovak, so I wanted to make sure it was all on the up and up.” Sasha put her hand over the phone to speak to Adrian. “She’s getting Jordan now.” Adrian nodded and took a sip of his drink. His eyes held a twinkle which told her he found this whole conversation amusing. His friend confirmed that the bar owner was who he said he was, and Sandra came back to the line to let her know that she was safe. With all those ducks in a row she hung up his cell phone and handed it back to him. “You can walk me home,” Sasha announced. His rich laughter filled the air. “I’d be honored. You did play that very well. I would never have known you knew someone in the police department.” “Adrian, there is a lot about me that will surprise you.” She took a sip of her drink. He picked up her hand and kissed the smooth skin over her knuckles. “I am looking forward to that very much.” 8

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Chapter Two Over the next few hours Sasha had one of the best nights of her life. The dancing and laughter that spilled from the crowd was like food to her soul, and her tiredness was replaced with pure revelry. Folk music turned into Irish sea ditties that sailors sang, and then from there it took on a life of its own. In the midst of it all was Adrian who twirled her around until she got dizzy and then kissed her until her toes tingled. Maybe it was the whiskey or just him but everything felt perfect and right in that space and time. “Do it!” he yelled over the music. “Do I have to dare you again?” “You are wild!” she shouted in return. He hoisted her up on the bar. The polished wood was cool against her bare feet. Everyone cheered and encouraged her on. She shook her head causing her long dark hair to whip across her face, and she pushed it back so she could see him. Sasha couldn’t seem to stop smiling when she saw his face. Adrian began to clap his hands, and the crowd joined in. “Dance!” Sasha grinned and let the music wash over her and began to move her hips and swayed to the beat. It wasn’t like dancing to hip hop or techno in the club. Each sound in Irish folk music seemed to filter into her blood, and she immersed herself in the resonance. Not caring what her body did she just felt and moved until the music stopped, and the crowd practically roared their approval. She opened her eyes and looked down to where Adrian stood. His eyes were dark, and she could see the blatant desire there. It burned her like a flash of fire to the center of her being. He held out his hand to her, and she placed hers in his with trust. With one tug he pulled her, and she fell into his arms. “Let’s get you home,” he murmured against her ear. She shivered and nodded, and amidst the clapping he grabbed her shoes and they ran out of Faraday’s pub and into the cool night. Sasha was barefoot and giggled like a school girl as they raced to the river front. She barely noticed the streets were empty as they passed the pier. The 9

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steamboats stood silent and docked in the black water until a new day started and they would continue their tours. They stopped in a little alcove where the air smelled sweet with magnolias and was still thick with the summer humidity. The trees with moss and honeysuckle vines made a canopy around one lone bench. It was a heady mix that heightened her senses even more. In the midst of all of it there was Adrian, who was the most potent of all. Their eyes locked, and with each step forward he took, she took one step back until she felt the wall against her back. Her hands were behind her back, and she felt the rough texture of the handmade bricks against her fingertips. He bent low until their lips met in a kiss that sent heat through her body in waves. Sasha gave a soft cry when he pulled her hard against him, and he groaned low in his throat. Adrian sank his tongue into the depth of her mouth and lifted her into his arms as if she weighed nothing. He strode toward the bench and sat with her legs straddling each side of his lap. It rode her dress high up to her waist, and she was pressed intimately against the bulge of his arousal in his pants. Unable to resist, she rubbed against him, and the friction made her moan into his mouth. She wanted him. Everything about the night was pulling her to this moment, and she was caught up in a force that she couldn’t deny. “Just one taste.” His voice was husky with desire when he spoke. He pushed the straps of her dress down her shoulders until she felt the heated breeze against her skin. Vaguely she heard the calls of the nightingales in the dark silent night, but she lost all reasoning when his calloused hands cupped her breasts and brought her erect nipples to his lips. His mouth closed over one of the tight beads, and her head fell back in pleasure. Adrian sucked the nipple hard into his mouth, and his tongue flicked over her nipple in gentle strokes. He moved to the other, giving it the same attention while she writhed in his arms. “More,” she begged wantonly. “Sasha, any more I’m going to end up taking you right here,” he growled. The Irish in his words was even more pronounced. “I’m trying to be a gentleman here.” 10

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“Who said I want a gentleman?” She met his heated gaze. “Been there, done that. I don’t want a man who’s afraid to take what he wants.” “You struck me as the type who needed a strong man.” She felt him comb his fingers through her hair and then grip the strands. “I’m not the asking type. I’m going to fuck you, hard. Do you want it here? Will I make you mine right on this bench?” “Oh yes, oooh yes!” Sasha sank into his kiss with relish. She was so tired of men playing it safe around her. She was not the kind of girl who had one night stands, especially in the middle of a small alcove. But from the moment she met Adrian, she knew he was the type who would be able to handle her in every possible way. She was a woman who followed her instincts, and her instinct was telling her he was the one she wanted. His hand squeezed the firm skin of her thighs before reaching between their bodies and pressing his palm against the mound of her pussy. His other hand traced the line of her panties past her hips to the rise of her ass. “Lord almighty, thongs?” he whispered against her lips. Sasha giggled. “You sound surprised.” “Pleasantly so.” He cupped her face and his next kiss was gentle. “A thaisce.” “What does that mean?” she asked. She was floored by the sudden affection she felt from him. “My treasure,” he told her. “I like that.” She bit her lip, and she felt the ball of his palm rub against her clit. Pleasure bubbled to the surface, and she arched against him to increase the pressure. “Do you like this?” His voice was a deep timbre. “Yes.” “I can feel your heat though your panties.” He kissed her. “Next time I’m going to taste you.” She didn’t even know what to say. Words didn’t form in her mouth anymore as she felt his fingers slip between the thin lace of her undies to touch her. She was wet, and his moan showed he approved of what he 11

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found. He used his finger to tease her clit until she was trembling. Only then did he sink a long digit into her pussy. She muffled her cry against his shoulder as her hips undulated to the rhythm he started using his hand. He added another finger inside her, and with each entry into her wet snatch, he went deeper and harder. She could feel the amazing peak of her orgasm in reach, and she went after it with zeal. She rode Adrian’s fingers like it was his cock. His lips were at her breast playing with her nipples. She came hard. Her body shook in his arms, and he held her tight to him, being her anchor in the pleasurable storm. Instead of her desire abating, it became more intense. His lips were hard and hungry, and she met them with a fever of her own. She worked the buckle of his belt and jeans with trembling rushed fingers until he stilled her hands with his own and took over the job himself. “Hurry, Adrian. I want you inside me so badly.” Her words were said in a rush. He was so strong he levered himself up with her on his lap, and she only had to shift for him to get his pants down to his knees. He pulled her onto his rigid cock, and she wanted to scream from the feeling. He was thick, and she stretched deliciously. He groaned into the valley of her breasts and thrust upward and set himself deeper inside her. She loved the feel of him and moved to meet his thrust. But Adrian wanted to be in control, and when he put her hands on her hips and impaled her onto his cock hard in quick succession, she let go and gave into him willingly. The heat of the night made her body slick with sweat, and as she climbed to another release, he was right there with her. She came with a soft cry, and he called her name. She felt his release and held him to her while her body shivered with delicious aftershocks. Minutes passed, and they shared gentle sensual kisses. His cock was semi-hard inside her. She sighed and finally climbed off him to try to make herself somewhat decent. “I really need to get home and clean up.” “Are you sending me away?” Adrian asked. He stood and pulled his pants up before buckling his belt.

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She walked up to him and wrapped her arms around his neck. “I’m not a one night stand kinda girl. I say let’s see where this might go, Adrian Faraday. We can start with this, you can come home with me.” He bowed low and kissed her hand. “Thank you for your kindness, fair lady.” Sasha laughed. “There’s nothing fair about me. Come on, let’s walk to my apartment. I need to get up before two p.m. tomorrow.” “Do you have to do some research for your thesis?” he asked. He wrapped his arms around her protectively as they made the steep climb from River Street onto East Fourth. “That and I have a flash mob to plan,” she replied. Adrian laughed. “You are an enigma, Sasha Caroway. I like that.” Sasha had to admit that stopping on impulse into the Irish Pub was one of her better instincts. Now she had the new unknown land called Adrian Faraday to conquer. **** With a kiss and then another for good luck Adrian walked down the narrow street away from Sasha’s loft. It was one of the older historic buildings with black ornate metal as a balcony. For a moment he stood outside the wrought iron fencing that kept people out of the back yard. Adrian grinned remembering the night loving that had taken place behind those walls and made a mental note to make love to her on that balcony and any other places he could think of. She was exactly what he needed, a breath of fresh air and fun in his life that had become way too serious lately. His phone rang and cut him off in mid whistle. He pulled it out of his pocket and frowned at the number. So much for fun and all that. “Yeah?” he said in a clipped voice. “Did you forget why you’re here, Irishman?” the caller snapped. “You’re out cavorting with some girl and not thinking.” “You don’t have to remind me of my job,” Adrian replied smoothly.

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“See that you don’t forget, Irishman, because I can think of a few things to do with that little number you had last night. Fulfill your uncle’s part of the bargain and walk away. Until then you’re on my clock.” Just hearing the unveiled threat to Sasha made anger flair in Adrian so fierce he clenched his hand around the keys in his pocket. “You even look at her funny, I’ll rip your eyes out of your head. You will get what my uncle promised you and nothing more.” The caller laughed, and it grated Adrian’s nerves. “See you remember that…. Irish man. I might have to send someone to make sure the job is taken care of the right way.” The phone disconnected with a soft click. Adrian sighed and dialed another number. After a few rings he heard the familiar voice on the other end. “Yeah, I just got the call,” Adrian said. “Everything is going pretty much as expected. There might be a new player involved. I don’t know for sure, but I’ll keep you informed.” That was all he had to say so he hung up right after those sentences. It was best to keep the conversations as short as possible. He was playing a game that was started by his uncle, and he now had to finish it. One thing was for certain, he was not going to give up on seeing Sasha for either side. She was his treasure and he made sure to keep people he cared for close Back at his own place right on River Street and over his bar, Adrian grabbed his gym shoes and went for a run. It was still early which meant the humidity was not at its worse. This was the perfect time to work out before the heat practically drained the liquid from his body. He learned that quickly after moving here. He was accustomed to summer where the air could stay as cool as the sixties with a good wind coming across the sea. He found that he loved this new atmosphere and the new life in Savannah. The only black mark was his uncle’s underhanded dealings, but soon enough he would have that dealt with. Just a little more time before… Adrian knew he had to keep her in the dark about everything. It could cost Sasha her life, and that was not a risk he was willing to take. He 14

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had one woman’s blood on his hands, and he vowed it would never happen again. His mind went to their night of immense pleasure. Every moan, every touch was imprinted on his memory. She was like molten lava in his arms, but there was so much beauty to her that was more than just looks. An innocence, a zest for life that was in every smile and laugh. He wanted to immerse himself in her. Crazy, he couldn’t help the grin that crossed his face while he ran. From the time she sat on that bar stool he felt the pull of attraction. Taking her in the tiny alcove with the smells of Savannah around them, Adrian knew he would never give her up after that. If another man dared look at her, he probably would end up smashing his face in with a fist. His level of dominance and wanting to keep her for himself surprised him. A woman had never affected him this quickly. He retraced his steps without even breaking stride, and by the time he got back home he was soaked with sweat. The summer heat was well on its way to becoming a scorcher. He turned on the TV on the way to his bedroom. The weather man was predicating record temperatures and warning everyone to be careful. He showered in lukewarm water just to cool his body and threw on a pair of jeans and a tank shirt to head down to the bar. Today drink orders would be filled and beer stock would be coming in. He had a pot of Brunswick stew and clam chowder to make along with original Sheppard’s pie before the restaurant area opened for lunch. He was appalled to see what his uncle was serving and calling food in a bar with their heritage name on it. He set about to change it soon after coming, and now they were known for the traditional Irish food they served. He whistled as he went downstairs to the kitchen. His bouncer was sitting at the metal cooking counter drinking his coffee. Tom was his best friend and made the trip across the sea with him. Now the big brute was making girls swoon and knocking sense into the drunk and disorderly for the pub. It wasn’t a big change since it was the exact same thing he did in Ireland. Except now he decided to join the Savannah police department as

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well. He would make a good cop. Adrian had known Tom all his life, and if there was anyone with exceptional character, it was him. “I saw you leave the bar with dancing girl last night,” Tom commented. “You saw me do what eh?” Adrian said while pouring his coffee. “Don’t ask like you don’t know, boyo.” Tom grinned. “The girl with skin that looks like chocolate. Luckily you got to her before I did. I would’ve seen if she tasted….” “Oy, don’t go there, Mr. Shea, or we’ll be tussling on the floor.” Adrian pointed at Tom. Tom gave a bark of laughter. “You just got a memory resurgence all of a sudden?” “She’s taken, so don’t even look,” Adrian practically growled out. “Look at you ready to put up fists over a woman.” Tom laughed. “I never thought I’d see it happen again. What are you going to tell her about this whole mess Fergus got you into?” “She’ll know nothing of it,” Adrian snapped. “The less she knows the better for her.” “I don’t think so. Get it out in the open now before she gets hurt, or so she can walk away,” Tom said and took a sip of his coffee. “No, and that’s the end of it,” he said with a voice that meant the discussion was over. Tom shrugged. “Who am I argue with you? Any new updates?” “Nothing new. The bastard called to do his usual threatening. Seems he was watching me last night,” Adrian said. “Did you see him in the bar?” Tom shook his head. “Of course not. I’d of given you the heads up if I did.” “Well then he put a new player in place to watch me. He said he was going to, but maybe that person is already here.” “I’ll keep an eye out for any non regulars,” Tom replied.

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Adrian tied an apron around his waist and began prepping for the meals he needed to make. “Tonight you’re in charge. Put Leland at the door, and you stay behind the bar.” Tom raised an eyebrow. “Oh and where are you going to be while we are busy slaving away? As if I didn’t know.” Adrian snorted as he diced carrots and celery. “Yeah, it’s such a hard ship for you to be behind the bar with eligible women fawning over you. I’ll be courting Sasha the right way. Last night… well never mind. All you need to know is expect to see more of her around.” “Treat the lass right, or you’ll be leaving an opening for me,” Tom teased. You have nothing on me when it comes to charming the ladies. Remember I taught you,” Adrian shot back. The ribbing continued back and forth while he got the food cooking, and the staff started coming in. It was a different atmosphere from when he first arrived. They were accustomed to Fergus’s low pay and bad treatment, and for awhile all the employees were wary of him. He gave them all raises and treated them with respect. He’d found his uncle’s dirty dealing right off the bat in the ledgers her kept. It was confirmed when John Cochran came in and told him he would be settling his uncle’s debts. Adrian agreed but had a better plan in the works. He knew men like John would never stop, and it would run his family name into the ground. He brought Tim into the loop and his friend on the police force. Now a sting was planned to put John Cochran in jail. All he had to do was to keep Sasha out of the fray, and then he would explain it all to her. He wondered who this new player was who had eyes in his pub. Tim would sniff them out, but until then he would play it close to the vest. By seven the pub was busy with customers and the live band was coming to get set up. It was Saturday night, and he could hardly believe it was only a few hours ago he met Sasha. He ran upstairs to change quickly knowing he left the bar in Tom’s capable hands. In about ten minutes he was out the door and in his car. Sasha had pointed out her car while they were walking home the night before. As he passed the parking spot it was 17

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empty so she had to have picked it up during the day. He felt kind of disappointed she didn’t stop in the pub just to say hey. He could have fed her lunch. She seemed to be such a whirlwind that her day was probably packed with things she needed to so. She was an energy bundle packed in a small body. He parked down the street from her apartment in the only spot he could get that was big enough to fit his humvee. Walking up the street he could hear the ghost tour coordinators talking as the trolleys rolled by. “This is the house where Mary Windsor and her lover was killed. He happened to be a white man, and in those days a relationship like that was frowned upon. It’s said that they were caught in a lover’s embrace by some of the men in town who strung them both up from the eves under the balcony. Some people say they can see her up there sitting by herself and hear her hum. Or sometimes they see her and her lover sharing a kiss before they disappear.” Adrian couldn’t help but listen while the trolley was stationary as the tour guide spoke. He was a sucker for a story, and the history of Savannah was rich with pirates, ghosts, and more. A gasp and a small scream from someone had Adrian looking up. On the balcony sat a woman in white. The dress she wore was sheer and blew in the wind. The dark lighting made everything look like it was a specter come back from the grave. He held back a laugh because the serene face was that of Sasha. Cameras flashed, and people murmured. Some even chuckled because they knew it was all an act. For a moment though he knew they had been caught up in the thrill of seeing an actual ghost. They paid for the experience and came in droves to the city for things like this. The trolley moved on, and Adrian quickened his pace to get to see Sasha. He pressed the buzzer to her door and grinned when she opened it. She played the part of a ghost well, down to the makeup on her face that made her chocolate skin look pale. “You look simply ravishing!” Adrian swooped her up in his arms and kissed her.

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She squealed and laughed when he lifted his head. He could see he’d messed up some of her makeup with his kiss, and she wiped it away from his face. “There you go ruining my makeup,” Sasha teased. Adrian feigned disappointment. “Does that mean you weren’t missing me all day?” Sasha walked away with a flirtatious sway of her hips. “Maybe.” He caught her around the waist and pulled her to him. He nipped the lobe of her ear and whispered, “Only maybe?” He was rewarded when her body shivered. “Probably more than that.” “Good to know. I like being wanted.” He kissed her neck. “Care to show me how much?” This time Sasha turned and swatted his chest. “I’m working here, buddy boy.” “You’re playing a ghost sitting on a balcony,” he reminded her. “Do you even get paid for this?” “Sometimes I do, and sometimes I don’t. I like it regardless,” she answered. “Everything in the world isn’t about money. It’s fun.” “Fun doesn’t help when the rent has to be paid. I learned that early on.” Sasha looked at him. “Don’t worry about my rent. I pay it just fine.” Adrian didn’t like the turn the conversation took. He came here to be with her, and now it felt a tad uncomfortable. He certainly didn’t mean to make it seem as if she was doing everything wrong. He turned the subject in hopes of recovering his footing before she had him out the door on his ass. “How was the thesis writing today?” The dark look on her face made him wince. Ouch, another sore subject. He changed tactics. “So this Mary Windsor had a lover. Maybe I can help.” “You would do that?” A smile pulled at the corners of her lips. Bingo. Adrian walked up to her and pulled her back into his arms. “Anything for you, a thaisce.”

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“You say things with that voice, and I just want to melt.” She kissed him gently. “Ok, let’s get you costumed and made up.” “You keep period style costumes for men in your place? Should I be jealous?” Adrian asked. “Only if you think old Mrs. Moore from the family theatre house is a threat.” Sasha laughed as she led him to her bedroom. “She gave me a bunch of stuff when it closed down, and I felt kinda bad letting it go out in the trash, so I keep it all here, and it comes in handy sometimes.” Adrian looked around. Her bedroom was decorated in rich burgundies, royal blue, and cream. “So after we do this, where do you want to go?” Sasha gave him a sexy smile. “Right here. I’ll make you dinner, and then we’ll find something to keep us occupied.” He had no doubt she would be able to do just that. For the rest of the night, he played the dead lover of Mary Windsor, and boy did they give tourists a show. By eleven they were wrapping up, and she kept to her promise and made him a late dinner. She found more than one interesting way to keep him occupied, and Adrian liked every minute of it. He fell asleep with her in his arms again, and no thought of his problems had a chance to filter in.

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Chapter Three Sasha typed furiously at her laptop. She looked at the piles of different structural plans in front of her and her notes and wrote as her ideas came to life in her head. She could see all her buildings each and every idea on the paper was etched in her mind’s eye. She pictured the buildings she wanted to create. Her problem was sitting in one place writing a one hundred page thesis on her goals and how it would work in Savannah for her doctorate. Instead she wanted to be at a drawing board with pencils and rulers drawing what she saw in her mind’s eye. But she knew no one would give her a second thought until she had that masters in her hand and a first creation under her belt. She sighed in frustration and took her glasses off to pinch the bridge of her nose. Of course she should sit there and work and get it over with. But the restlessness inside her made her want to run out in the sunshine. Her father always said how could one girl with so much smarts have her head high in the clouds? Sasha felt the pressure of her family on her back like a weight. They wanted her to succeed, and she knew she could. In her own way and her own time. Their expectance of her to be just like her sisters made her want to leave it all the more. On an impulse she picked up her cell phone and dialed Adrian’s number. He was probably the only thing she looked forward to of late. Being with him, lying in his arms and the way he made her body feel. His crooked grin flashed in her mind, and his voice was always like the caress of honey on her skin. The man made her feel things she never thought possible. He answered on the first ring, and a flash of pleasure filtered through her body just from hearing his voice. “Hey, what are you up to?” Sasha asked. “Sasha?” He sounded preoccupied. “Um nothing much, just doing the usual pub things.” “I was thinking about coming over. We could relax at the pub, and you can finally show me your place,” Sasha said. “Here?” he said and hesitated before speaking. “My place is a bit of a mess, and we’re trying to avert a crisis here at the pub, a beer keg spill.” 21

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“Need any help? I’m pretty good with a mop,” Sasha teased. “No, its ok.” His voice didn’t even hold a note of humor. “Okayyy, well a couple of my friends usually end up at the Boars Head Tavern. I more than likely will be there if you want to come in and maybe meet the gang. They’re a mix of weird and funny crazy.” She hoped to make him smile. “I don’t know if I can make it, hectic here,” Adrian replied. “Should you be going out? Are you trying to avoid your thesis?” Sasha got irritated instantly. “I wanted to talk to the man I’m kinda dating. But obviously you are busy, and I’m sorry to disturb you. By the way I’m not avoiding anything. Don’t try to deflect the conversation by throwing up my paper. I’m not a child. If you don’t want to see me today just say so.” Adrian sighed and his tone softened. “Hey, I’m sorry. It’s been a helluva day here. I’ll see you later tonight at your place. It might be late though.” “Who says I want to see you?” Sasha felt the fire of her temper simmering, and usually by that time she couldn’t bite her tongue. “I’m not your late night booty call, and trust me there are plenty more people who might enjoy my company tonight. Enjoy your day.” With those words she mashed the button on her blackberry to disconnect him even though she could hear him still trying to talk . Oh I am not the one! she fumed to herself. She didn’t need a man to be on her ass about her thesis or anything in her life. She was absolutely sick of everyone thinking she was some kind of screw up because she didn’t finish her thesis. I should’ve gone on that trip to Tibet. She sighed, disappointed that the conversation with Adrian went wrong and feeling alone because no one really understood her, it seemed not even the man she had such a connection with. Instead of falling into the doldrums she got dressed and headed out into the Savannah sunshine. She would go read and play with the kids in the hospital pediatric unit or enjoy a snow cone while riding on the steamboat, maybe even both. She didn’t need anyone

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to entertain her, Sasha was accustomed to making herself happy, and it was not about to change. By the end of the day Sasha was completely satisfied with how the day turned out. It was after midnight, and she was on her way home walking with one of her friends. Corey always made sure she got home safely when she went out with the group. They were casually strolling up the street, and as she approached her building she saw a figure sitting on the steps. Corey seemed to notice it too and instantly became tense beside her. He grabbed her hand and moved her behind him as they got closer. She breathed a sigh of relief when she saw it was Adrian as they walked up. His face was like stone as he looked Corey over. Her friend was at least two inches taller than Adrian whose muscles flexed as if he was gearing up for a fight. “You sure didn’t waste any time finding someone else to entertain you.” Adrian’s voice was controlled and held retrained anger. She was not about to be put on the spot by him, and her own anger sparked to life again. “You had no time, if I recall. Did you expect me to sit in my apartment and twiddle my thumbs until you deemed it worthy to see me?” Corey looked at them both. “Am I missing something here?” “No, its fine. This is just…a friend.” Sasha made sure to emphasize the last two words. “Yeah, she’s mine. That’s what you’re interrupting.” Adrian kept his eyes on her face. “A friend?” “I said it, and I didn’t stutter did I?” Sasha lifted her head in defiance. “Since when did you lay claim to me? I don’t know how they do it in leprechaun land, but unless the last time you were here you stamped a barcode on my ass, I belong to me.” “Do I need to leave or…..” Corey asked looking from one to the other. “Stay!” “Leave!” They spoke in unison, and Corey rolled his eyes. “Listen ummm hell what’s your name?” Corey asked. 23

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“Adrian Faraday. Not nice to meet you,” Adrian bit out. “Rude ass man,” Sasha snapped. “Well maybe you will change your mind when you hear I have no designs on Sasha.” Corey smiled. “I’ve got a nice girlfriend waiting for me back at Boar’s Head who happens to be a very good friend of lil scrappy here. Secondly, if you can guarantee me that you mean her no harm, I’ll leave you two to sort this out.” “I would never harm her. She is my treasure.” Adrian said it so reverently that she believed it and felt her anger waning. “That’s a good thing because if you did, you’d have a fight on your hands, from me and my lady who swings a mean frying pan, and I mean the heavy kind.” Corey grinned. “So now that’s settled and I know your face, I’m leaving. Just a fair warning, if she tells you leave, do so.” Corey bent and kissed her cheek, and Adrian made a sound of anger in his throat. “Save it, buddy.” “Bye, Corey,” Sasha said. “Be careful walking back.” He gave her a friendly wave and walked away. She watched him leave and then turned to go past Adrian who put his hand out to block her path. “Excuse me,” she said with fake politeness. “Don’t you think we should talk about this?” he asked. “I don’t think so,” she said. “Jesus, Sasha, cut me a break will you? There’s a lot going on in my life.” “So that gives you the right to talk to me however?” she asked with amazement in her voice. “I could listen to your day and maybe a shoulder to lean on. Like I said I don’t know how they do it where you come from….” He held up a finger and cut her off. “Actually you called Ireland leprechaun land.” She rolled her eyes. “Whatever, the point being is that you want some submissive woman who is going to sit and wait for you. Sweetie, I’m not the one. I have a life.”

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Adrian pulled her to him and took her lips in a kiss that melted her from the inside out. When he lifted his head even her bones felt liquid from the onslaught of his powerful kiss. His eyes met hers, and along with his kiss he took her breath away. “There’s so much I want to say to you, to tell you what’s going on in my life.” His voice was husky when he spoke. She lifted her hand and pressed it against his cheek. “Share the load. I’ve got wide shoulders. Talk to me, Adrian.” He shook his head and swallowed. “I can’t.” She dropped her hand away. “And then that’s the issue. I can’t give you all of me, if you’re not willing to do the same.” She turned in his arms and went to her door. “Goodnight, Adrian.” “Wait…” She closed the door on his words and walked up the stairs, suddenly tired. Who knew actually liking a guy was going to become complicated. In all actuality she knew that it was more than liking. She was falling for him because it all felt so different and intense. Her emotions were involved, and that scared her more than anything. Whatever will be will be. It was her mantra, and Sasha kept repeating it while she took her shower. If they didn’t work out, she would be ok, at least she hoped. By the time she walked into her bedroom fifteen minutes later she was feeling a tiny bit better. Maybe she was fooling herself. It had only been a few days since she met Adrian. Would the intensity of it fade over time? She wrapped her hair up to keep its style for the next day. She was about to get into bed when she heard a low voice singing outside. Her bedroom balcony faced the garden backyard, but it was gated so no one should be out there. Sasha took her phone from its charging cradle and opened the French doors that led to the balcony. She stepped outside on to the cool tiles and could feel the etched patterns under her feet. The sight of the yard with tea lights hanging from the trees and the fountain under the gazebo always relaxed her. This time she was expecting some drunken tourist to have broken into the yard and instead found Adrian standing under her gazebo 25

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singing. He looked up at her and in his hand he held a piece of paper with the words ‘I’m sorry’ written on it. The words of the song she couldn’t understand. He sang in Gaelic. It certainly didn’t matter because in his smooth baritone voice, it was like warm Irish whiskey washing over her skin. He finished the song, and she was well and truly charmed into not being mad at him anymore. “Am I forgiven?” he called up. “Yes, I suppose,” Sasha replied. “I’ll buzz you in.” Adrian groaned. “I’m not climbing that fence again. Wait one second.” She watched with interest as he looked around. She knew there was no ladder out there. A laugh escaped her when he swung up to the low branch of one of the trees in and climbed nimbly over to the branches closest to her balcony. “You’re going to break your neck!” Sasha’s voice held worry. “Jeez, Adrian!” “Anything for you, sweetheart.” He flashed her a grin before he swung toward her and grabbed the wrought iron easily. Long legs swung over the edge, and he instantly grabbed her to him and kissed her senseless. He raised his head and said huskily, “I was planning to sing all night if I had to.” Sasha took his hand and led him into her bedroom. “There are a few better ways I can think of to use your lips. Wanna see?” “Hell yeah” He murmured and went along with her willingly. Sasha pulled her nightie over her head and let it drop to the floor. With one smooth motion she sent her lacy panties down her legs and kicked them away. Adrian’s eyes became dark with desire while he watched her. His fingers worked the buttons of his shirt, and he threw it aside. His jeans and boxers came off together, and his hard cock sprung free of its confines. Adrian lifted her, and Sasha bent her head to his and kissed him. Their tongues mated and played from one mouth to the next. He laid her on the bed, and she scooted up until she felt the headboard at her back. He

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reached out and cupped her full breasts, watching the peaks harden as he rolled them between his thumbs and forefingers. “I’ve been thinking about tasting you all over.” Adrian’s voice was rough with desire. “Don’t let me stop you. I’m quite willing to lie here quietly and let you do what needs to be done.” Sasha’s smiled was sultry. “Oh, sweetheart, if you lay still, I’m not doing my job right.” Adrian braced himself on his arms about her. He started from her neck and kissed his way downward. She shifted beneath him from the sensations his mouth was caused while he sucked her nipple into this mouth. He gave the second breast the same attention until she gasped and held his head to her. He slipped from her grasp easily and kissed his way down her torso. She giggled when he burrowed his tongue into her navel. The laugh turned to a moan when he kissed the top of her mound. “I love that you are shaved.” He licked the outer lips of her snatch while she panted, wanting more pleasure from his mouth. His tongue delved between the folds of her pussy. Sasha arched, and the long slow lick sent her to the brink of an orgasm. With a muffled groan he pressed his mouth against her, and she was engulfed with desire as he used his mouth to tease her. Adrian spread the lips of her pussy. He penetrated her with his tongue, tasting the secrets her body held until she came, and it flowed easily onto his tongue. Her cries filled the room, but he wasn’t done. She felt his fingers pressed inside her deep and slow until she arched off the bed. She didn’t know if she could handle everything she was feeling in one major assault. “I don’t think I can handle…it’s so much!” she cried out. He looked at her from his place between her legs. “I won’t stop. Let it take you away. I want to see you fall apart in my arms.” He fucked her with his fingers using more pressure and entering her deeper each time. Sasha’s head fell back, and her hips lifted to match the rhythm of his fingers. She could feel her orgasm building inside her to reach the peak. She heard feminine sounds and then almost animalistic and vaguely recognized that it was coming from her own lips. 27

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Adrian found her clit with his mouth and sucked on the tender bud. That coupled along with the insistent penetration of his digits into her moist core sent her over the edge with a scream of his name. Sasha leaned back against the pillow weakly trying to catch her breath. She’d had orgasms before but never anything like this. She opened her eyes to see Adrian on his knees. His body was built—sculpted abdomen, arms that were muscled and meant for holding tight. The muscles in his hard thighs flexed, and his rod jutted from between his legs thick and erect ready to fuck her. He called her over with a crook of his finger. “Take me in your mouth.” Sasha tucked her knees under her and with a sleek move she was close to him and eye level to his cock. She licked the tip and heard him groan in response. He leaned back on his hands to give her better access, and Sasha wrapped the base of his shaft in her grasp. She took each inch of him into her mouth, tasting the pre-come at the tip and the flavor of his skin. He moaned her name and sank his fingers in her hair. With each movement of her tongue and lips she felt his cock throb in her mouth. Sasha cupped his balls and found them heavy and tight as she sucked him. “Ah, God!” Adrian pulled her away gasping harshly. With a dark gaze he turned her around and positioned her on her hands and knees. She felt the tip of his cock against her pussy and wiggled in anticipation. They both cried out as he sank into her depths. She could feel him filling and stretching the walls of her snatch. It was fulfilling and perfect as if he was meant to be there. Adrian moved slowly at first, and she could feel the muscles of her body contract to try to keep him inside her after he withdrew from each thrust. “More, Adrian, take me hard,” she called out to him. A low sexy sound rumbled from his chest. Suddenly he flipped her onto her back and sank into her again. He lifted her legs high onto his shoulders and pistoned in and out of her wet pussy with a ferocity that left her breathless. She asked for this, all of it, and as he pounded inside her, her body shook from the wildness of her pleasure. She clutched his 28

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shoulder and screamed as an orgasm shook her to her very core. She felt a flood of her juice escape her body. “Oh, yes, baby, I love how you come.” Adrian’s voice was harsh and his face intense. She felt him grow and thicken inside her and grabbed his sack squeezing it lightly. He threw his head back and with his guttural cry she felt his hot seed fill her while his body was tense above hers. She held him tight as he slumped over her, caressing his back that was coated in a sheen of dampness. He rolled onto his side and pulled her against him, kissing her temple gently. “I think we should try not to argue but do this a lot more often,” she murmured. She idly drew patterns on his bare chest with the tip of her finger. “I concur with your assessment.” A chuckle rumbled in his chest. Sasha looked up at him and asked a question she never asked a man in her life. “Where’s this going, Adrian? Are we forming something here or just coasting along until it fizzles out and then go on our way?” “I don’t think the way you make me feel will ever disappear.” Adrian sighed and tucked some of her hair behind her ear. “There’s a thing that needs to be fixed, things that you couldn’t understand. But when it’s all over, you’ll see. I’ll give you one hundred percent of me in all ways.” His eyes were somber when he spoke, and Sasha believed him with all her heart. Contrary to what she tried to tell herself earlier, she was fooling herself and failing miserably. Her heart was already invested, and there was no way to stop it now. “I’m an all or nothing kind of girl,” Sasha said honestly. “I will give you all of me, nothing less because I’ve fallen head over heels in love with you. You’re the one that I want.” Adrian took her lips in a kiss, and she felt the stirrings of desire in her body once more. He rolled until he was lying on top of her. “I love you too, a thaisce, always.”

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She reveled in the words while they kissed, and their tongues parried in a sensual dance. She’d found her center, a rock in the world. Nothing was impossible, and she could see a future stretched out in front of her. In her mind she started building their lives like it was one of the architectural plans she studied and intended to create. Later that night while he slept an insistent buzzing woke her from her sleep. She looked around groggily when it stopped and then began again seconds later. Crawling out of bed she found it was coming from Adrian’s pocket and pulled his cell phone out. There were seven missed calls from the bar, and she climbed back into bed as the little gadget began to buzz again. The time was five fifteen in the morning, and she knew the bar had been closed for hours. Who could possibly be at the bar that early or late? “Hey, Adrian, someone’s trying to reach you pretty badly.” She shook him gently. He seemed to go from a deep sleep to instantly alert and took the phone from her and pressed the on button. “Yeah?” He listened intently, and his face became a stone that revealed nothing. He got up and began to pull on his clothes while listening to whoever was on the line. “I’ll be there shortly.” He hung up and looked around for his shirt. “It’s on the chair.” Sasha pointed to the corner. “Thanks.” He gave her a swift smile and began dressing once more. Before leaving he bent over the bed to give her a kiss. “I’ll call you tomorrow.” “Yeah, sure,” Sasha replied, but he was out the door before she even got the words out. “Bye.” She flopped back on the bed already missing his warmth beside her but yet feeling once more like she was on the outside of his life looking in. What was going on at the bar that could take him from being such a romantic Irish rogue to being distant in minutes? She tried to put it out of her head. The look in his eyes when they declared their feelings for each other was not fake. She had to trust him and believe that what they were creating was real. She’d never been in love before, and it felt great. She 30

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put the wayward thoughts aside and fell asleep with her face pressed in the pillow that still held his scent.

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Chapter Four Adrian strode into the bar at six on the dot. Tom was standing behind the bar with his face grim. On the other side was a woman. Dressed in sleek black, she sat tapping her hands impatiently. He vaguely recognized her from the bar coming in each night and sitting off by herself. No one had to tell him this was the insider John had spoken of. She was beautiful in her own right down to her raven black hair, but behind the beauty her eyes were deadly. “Took you long enough to get here.” Her voice was so sweet it was saccharine. “Aye, I took my time since it doesn’t belong to you,” Adrian replied. He nodded at Tom. “Any coffee?” “Yeah in the kitchen,” Tom replied. Adrian went and poured himself a cup. He took his time knowing it would make her grit her teeth. They may think that they had him trapped, but he belonged to no man. He was known to slip from many a sticky situation. This would be no different. He calmly walked back out to the bar where her fingers now thrummed doubled time, and with a secret he smiled behind the coffee cup. He acknowledged that now she was furious. He went behind the bar and leaned casually against the back shelf. “So what’s your name, and what do you want?” “For you to do your job. You haven’t been here for nights in a row, and shipments are coming through the tunnels by the end of the week,” she snapped. “My name is Valerie.” She meant the old pirate’s tunnel that criss-crossed beneath Savannah. Two led from the port straight under his bar. John and his uncle Fergus were using those tunnels to bring drugs into the city. Everyone thought most of them were crumbled from age and time. Fergus had found a way around that, and now they were in deep shit because of it. “No last name?”

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“None that you need to know,” she replied smoothly. “Want to explain why your presence is missing from the bar almost every night?” “Not particularly. I left Tom in charge. I’m sure he handled it fine,” Adrian commented mildly. After all it’s not a priceless Faberge egg. It’s fucking bales of drugs wrapped in duct tape and plastic.” “It’s your life, boyo. Is that how you say it in Ireland? Oh and the life of that bitch you’re fucking.” She smiled, and it held no mirth. “Did you think we didn’t know? Wouldn’t it be a shame if we slit her throat in her bed to make a point?” Adrian didn’t even hear the mug as he dropped it, and it crashed onto the floor. All he could feel was rage, pure hatred as this woman threatened Sasha’s life. Without even a second thought his hands were around her throat, and he practically hauled her across the bar. A squeak escaped her lips, and the same fingers that tapped impatiently on the bar now grabbed it to keep hold. “Listen very well, lass.” Adrian’s voice was deadly. “If she sneezes and John, his henchmen, or you are anywhere around, I will not be happy, and there is no law that will stop me from killing you.” “Temper, temper.” She tried to make her voice light, but he heard the tremor of fear. Good, he thought wickedly. She should be afraid because if Sasha was harmed, he knew he would probably spend the rest of his life in jail. “Honey, this is not my temper. You don’t want to see that,” Adrian said lightly. He released her, and she stumbled back. “Do your job, Faraday.” She rubbed her neck. “Don’t make John have to see if your words are threats or just bullshit. Oh and if your little thing comes around and you want to protect her, you find some kind of cover for me being here. I will be around… a lot.” She walked out without even looking back. She was a shark wearing heels and no doubt could be very dangerous. It was probably the reason John hired her. This situation had to come to a head sooner rather than later. He wanted it all done so he could focus on Sasha.

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“Do you think it was wise to grab her like that?” Tom asked in a somber voice. Adrian sighed. “Probably not, but if I didn’t they would think that they could threaten Sasha at will. I can’t let that happen. Plus I saw red when she said it. You know how that goes.” “You need to tell her the truth,” Tom interjected. He gave his friend a harsh look. “And say what exactly? Hey, Sasha, my uncle was pond scum, and he was running drugs through the bar. Oh I had to pick up where he left off, and now I’ve got a sting set up with the cops? If she didn’t want to go running before, hearing that would give her wings on her heels she’d leave me so fast.” “You’re not your uncle. You’re working with the authorities to take John down,” Tom pointed out. “Yes, but what woman wants to be in the midst of something like that?” Adrian asked. “Better she be not aware of it, and when it’s all over I’ll explain it all.” Tom shook his head. “I think you’re making a mistake, but it’s yours to make.” He changed the subject. “I’ll call Jordan to see when this sting can go down. This is the biggest shipment John ever brought through. It has to be enough to put him away for a long time.” Tom snorted. “Yeah you would think. I’ll be glad when this is over. At least it will push me through the ranks quicker so I won’t have to be a beat cop for years.” Without a word he took a bar rag and began to pick up the pieces of the shattered mug. All of his senses were on high alert, and his mind flashed from one situation to another trying to work out every variable and hating the unknown. There was one thing he was certain of, if anything happened to Sasha his heart would be reminiscent of the piece of ceramic. After another brief conversation with Tom about their new non-friend, Adrian called Jordan to set up a meeting for later in the day. He couldn’t be seen walking into the police station, so a secure location was picked one where they wouldn’t be recognized. With that done he fell across the 34

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bed with a muffled groan into the sheet and hoped he could a catch a few more hours of sleep. His and Sasha’s lovemaking had lasted late into the night and thinking about it made his cock throb in response. She was like liquid sliver and so damn passionate she burned him every time with the ferocity of her desire. He could spend forever touching her, looking at her as his body relaxed and he fell asleep. It was two in the afternoon when he was in his car heading to the meet up with Jordan, with his sunglasses on to keep the midday Savannah sun out of his eyes. Everything that was going on seemed to fall into place on its own. When he took over the bar, Jordan had come in to rouse him. It was then he knew something was wrong. When John had come in and told him he had to take over where Fergus left off, Jordan was the first person he went to with the information, and it seemed the cops already knew. From there the plans were made to catch John and his people in the act of drug smuggling. It wasn’t even a thought about continuing his uncle’s criminal activities or reporting the truth to the authorities. His mother would be devastated if she was alive and knew what her brother had gotten them into. He pulled into the Savannah memorial graveyard, one of the oldest in the city and filled with tombstones from as far back at the seventeen hundreds. Even the moss that hung from the trees seemed to be as old as the headstones that graced less grave sites than there actually were. In fact it was known that the graveyard held over ten thousand bodies, yet there was only six hundred gravestones. To anyone it would look like he was still sightseeing, but when he sat next to Jordan who was casually eating a snow cone, the conversation to be had was a serious one. “Really a snow cone?” Adrian asked as he sat down. “Part of my disguise,” Jordan replied. “You seem to be enjoying your disguise a little too much,” he commented as Jordan took a big bite of the icy treat. Jordan shrugged. “It’s a hundred degrees in the shade. I’m going to keep cool however I can since you brought me out of my air-conditioned station.” 35

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“John has a shipment coming in a few days. It’s the biggest one yet, and I want the sting to go down,” Adrian explained. “It’s not a matter of what you want. That’s not how it works.” Jordan stared him. “They are threatening Sasha.” “The girl you had to call me? Why would they being doing that?” the detective asked. “Because the fucker has me under surveillance, and some woman has been his eyes in my bar,” Adrian replied. “She said her name is Valerie, tall jet black hair.” “Hot?” Jordan inquired. “Very, but she reminds me of a cobra. She said they would and I quote, slit Sasha’s throat in her bed.” “Not good.” His friend sipped at the melting treat in the plastic cup. Adrian looked at him incredulously. “No shit, Sherlock. I’m glad you are taking this so seriously. Sasha is, well she is my main concern, so I want this done, and I want it over now, or I’ll call in the FBI.” “You can’t be serious. After all the work I’ve done, this is my arrest!” Jordan’s voice held anger. He took a deep breath and changed his tone. “Listen to me, Adrian. I know you’re worried, but we have to take this slow.” “Not if it’s going to put the life of the woman I love in danger, I won’t. Besides it has to be a few hundred kilos of heroin. This is the break we were waiting for,” Adrian said. Jordan stared out to the street and tapped his foot thoughtfully. “A few hundred kilos can put him away and give us unlimited access to his records and his people. We get one weak link, and all the dominoes fall.” Adrian nodded. “So it’s a go then?” “You give me a time and a place, and we’ll be there with the full force of the Savannah PD,” Jordan said. “You need to keep your lady out of the loop as long as this is going on. If she knows anything they can snatch her up. It’s best she has no clue. That way they won’t see her as a threat. If they think she knows anything, they can use her for collateral or worse.” 36

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“I was thinking the same thing,” Adrian said grimly. “I’ll do whatever I need to, to keep her safe.” Adrian hated the thought of lying to her, but to keep her out of harm’s way he would. Suddenly he had the urge to see her, to hold her in his arms and immerse himself in everything that was her. She was probably home working on her paper, he thought with a grin. Suddenly inspired, he got up and John looked at him curiously. “Where’re you off to?” Jordan asked. “I thought we were having a discussion.” “I don’t think we can do anything else until I get the date and time of the shipment.” Adrian grinned. “I’m going to spend my time with a certain woman who smells like cinnamon and can kiss like a dream.” “Don’t rub it in,” Jordan grumbled. “Get out of here.” Adrian was already walking away and gave a casual wave as he left. He headed over to the chocolate bar and picked one of their specialties, warm chocolate and fruit. They had individually made container that kept the chocolate from hardening, and the fruit was always deliciously cold in its own separate holder. It was stifling hot, and he was grateful for the cool air his car was pushing out. It was only a few short turns back from the chocolate bar to Sasha’s place. As he was driving the look of exhaustion and the wear of the heat on the people walking on the streets said it all. Savannah in summer was like living in Hades sometimes. He found a parking spot close to her apartment, and with his package in hand he rang the buzzer for the third floor. “Who needs to enter my domain?” Her voice was deep, and he heard the giggles of kids in the background. “Sasha?” Adrian asked curiously. “Hey, come on up!” He heard the door unlock when she pressed the button from upstairs, and he pulled the heavy door to go inside. He wondered what was going on in her apartment and soon found out when he got inside. Sasha stood smiling wearing a wizard hat and carrying a wand. There were six little

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girls who were all dressed in tutus and had pink fairy wings strapped to their shoulders. “My little fairies, look the dragon is here!” she called out, and all the girls squealed and hid. He put his package on the counter, and when he turned to her, she plunked a dragon hat on his head. “What now?” he asked. She leaned in and whispered, “I’m babysitting my friend Melanie’s kids. She has triplets plus three others, all girls. I do it occasionally so her and George can have a break and some alone time.” “From six girls I can see why.” Adrian smiled. Sasha swatted him. “They are sweet. They have enough energy to power a nuclear plant. Right now we need a dragon to slay and then save with kisses.” “Are some of the kisses yours?” he asked. She winked at him. “Those kinds of kisses can wait until later when their parents pick them up.” “Alright sign me up. What do I do?” Adrian decided the payment was well worth playing dragon for some kids. Besides kids loved him. “Roar but not too ferociously to scare them, and get caught a lot,” Sasha explained and then said a little louder, “Oh no the dragon got my magic wand. Who will save me?” He guessed the game was on because six little flurries of pink came from their hiding places and started waving their wands with streamers at him. He roared good-naturedly and threw himself into the game. After all, some day he and Sasha might have some children of their own, maybe even girls. He should learn from now how to be a dragon and whatever may be needed. It made him smile even wider when the kids tackled and toppled him. Everything he pictured was something he’d wanted all his life. It took traveling across the sea to find it, in the chocolate brown eyes of Sasha Caroway. They played well into the evening until a spaghetti dinner, ice cream, and a Disney movie calmed them down. The girls conked out in front of 38

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the TV, and then Adrian took the chance to steal a few kisses that left them both breathless and wanting. The girls’ parents showed up with a profuse of thanks. Adrian noted the satisfied looks on their faces. Everyone needed a little time to reconnect, even in the midst of a busy family. It was a good thing they had an amazing friend like Sasha to offer them some free time alone. Being a parent had to be a hard job, and he looked forward to that new role in his life, but not quite yet. Much later that evening Sasha lay in bed completely nude and looking at him with arousal and seduction in her eyes. The taste of strawberries and pineapple was on her lips from the treat he brought, and chocolate covered her nipples and trailed down her body to the apex of her thighs. Adrian held a strawberry between his teeth and bent over her so she could take a bite. He kissed her hard and chewed the remaining half of the strawberry. He bent and sucked one of her chocolate nipples into his mouth, and she cried out in pleasure as he took his time to get every last taste of the creamy treat from her skin. “The chocolate is good, but the taste of your skin is so much better.” Adrian’s voice was husky with pleasure. She panted. “Taste the rest of me.” Her body moved in anticipation of feeling his mouth. Adrian wanted to roar like he could conquer the world. It was all from knowing it was him that caused her to react like this. He ran his tongue down her body, tasting the chocolate and her skin. He licked it off her torso and to the mound of her snatch where it has dribbled between the full aroused lips. He delved his tongue into the folds of flesh tasting the candy that blended with her juices. Her hips rose to meet his tongue while she begged and asked for more. Adrian controlled his own need and sucked on her clit until she came hard and shivered under his mouth. He moved the chocolate and fruit from the bed so they wouldn’t spill the contents of the containers. By the time he turned around to face her once more, she was leaning against the headboard. Her hair wild, lips parted panting from the pinnacle she’d just reached, she cupped her breasts, and his gaze followed her fingers as she plucked at her nipple and 39

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bit her lips to hold back a moan. Her eyes never left his face while she trailed her hands down the smooth skin of her torso to the apex of her thighs, and she grazed the lips of her wet sex. “Touch yourself,” he ordered. Her fingers slipped into the slit, and she moaned when she grazed the sensitive bud of her clit. His skin tingled until it felt as if it was burning watching her touch herself under his command. When she dipped her finger inside her wet cavern, he was lost. “Deeper,” he told her. “Two fingers.” She complied and cried out, her hips thrusting upward to meet her own fingers. Mine now! The thought careened through his head, and he strode over to her. He got on the bed and pulled her to him roughly. He ran his tongue up the slit of her pussy, and she moaned while wantonly shifting her hips and entreating him to continue. Adrian spread the full lips of her sex and buried his tongue inside her. Sasha arched and cried out as she pulled his head tight against her. He could hear her pleading for more, asking him to make her come as she sank into the feral need that was consuming them both. Adrian groaned and took more from her wanton body. With his mouth still against her clit, he sunk two fingers inside her and fucked her. With each thrust of those digits he felt more of her juice release and flow from her body. She cried out over and over again, calling his name and begging for release from the tightening web of desire. “Oh God, oh God, I’m going to come!” Her voice held desperate excitement. Adrian wanted to feel her come around his cock and quickly buried himself inside her. The dam broke free, and she found her release. The muscles of her pussy clenched around him and milked at his cock while she shook from the ferocity of her orgasm. He pumped into her, and she ground against him. He felt her fingernails scrape the skin of his back, and her teeth nipped at his shoulder as they moved in unison. Ah shit. He wanted it all, wanted to feel her teeth on his skin. He wanted to bind them together until he didn’t know where she ended and he began. He pulled the 40

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tip of her breast into his mouth and sucked at it deeply. In response she reached between them to cup his balls and squeeze them. “I want all of you. Are you willing to give it to me?” he whispered against her ear. “I’m yours. Everything is yours!” Sasha whimpered. Their bodies never stopped their frenzied movements. He pulled his cock from her wet cavern and lay on his side. Adrian buried his fingers inside her and coated the tight brown button of her anus with her own juices. She bucked against him as he buried a digit in the tight glove to help the muscles relax, and then he penetrated her ass with slow ease. “Yes, yes, yes.” She panted, and her entire body trembled against him. He slipped his hand beneath her body so he could fondle her breasts and slipped the other hand between her legs to play with her clit. Sasha bucked as he rubbed her clit, and when the rhythm began, he was again consumed by her fire. She was so tight, too damn tight. He felt as if he would lose it right then and there. His eyes were closed as he forced himself to wait for her and took her again to the edge of reality. He pushed his fingers against the g-spot a little past the entrance of her pussy and rubbed against it causing her to buck while he fucked her ass. Their moans and cries filled the air, which smelled of sex and unbridled passion. She came hard with a scream that ended on a satisfied whimper, and then he let himself go. He felt like his orgasm had no end as he emptied his hot seed inside her. His bones felt tike liquid, and both of them laid sated, quiet as the storm of desire passed and destroyed them with its fury. He heard a soft snore and chuckled. Sasha had fallen asleep in only minutes after their lovemaking. “I feel so used,” he murmured good naturedly. He got up and cleaned himself in the bathroom before coming back out to clean her up as well. He dropped the washcloths in the sink and walked around the apartment to make sure everything was locked and secured. He was practically living there, he spent so many nights at her house. Adrian climbed back into bed, pulled her close, and she snuggled against his 41

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chest. He wondered if he could buy a house close to the ghost tours so she could still be a part of their route. He kissed the top of her head and grinned when she snored louder. Yeah, I want this everyday for the rest of my life.

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Chapter Five “I think I’m in love,” Sasha announced on the phone to her sisters. They were on a three way call after they all received an email from their parents on the first leg of their world tour. The email included pictures of their parents in Italy, eating an Italian Ice sitting on the steps of a museum. They looked like they were having fun, and she was glad for that. Raina called, put her on hold to call Jonelle, and it seemed only right to talk to her sisters about Adrian. “In love huh? Do tell,” Jonelle said dryly. “When you were a teenager you were in love every other weekend.” “His name is Adrian Faraday. He owns an Irish pub on River Street with another one in Ireland.” Sasha laughed. “Well hormones are not controlling this declaration.” “Are you sure?” Raina asked with humor in her voice. “Cause if the man is not handling it in bed….” “Oh he handles quite nicely. It’s like driving one of those new cars that goes from zero to sixty in thirty seconds. The man can handle the curves and knows how to drive the car,” Sasha replied. Her analogy had them all laughing and Raina piped up, “So when do we get to meet the mystery man?” “Next time you guys decide to visit Savannah, or maybe we’ll take a trip and see you for a change,” Sasha said. “This is serious, guys. Adrian is the real thing.” “Well then we are so very happy for you, Midget,” Jonelle announced. “Yes, we are. Now be good little sister,” Raina said. “I have to run but call me soon ok?” “Okie dokey I’ll call you both in a few days,” Sasha promised. “We love you, Midget!” they said in unison. “Stop calling me that!” she yelled into the phone and hung up laughing. Her parents were on a cruise, her sisters were doing well, and she was in love, really head over heels in love with Adrian, and everything felt 43

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right in the world. It was already early evening, and she made an impulse decision to go to the bar. Adrian would probably be tending bar because Jimmy was still out with a broken leg. She’d help out if he was short handed for a waitress and maybe stay the night with him instead of always at her place. She dressed in a pair of jeans and a cute crocheted white top and headed downstairs to her car. By the time she parked she could see Faraday’s was jumping with activity. She made sure her car was locked and walked the cobblestone up to the bar. She was let in with a smile from the bouncer out front. She made her way to the bar and sat down just as a tall man came up, who she recognized from the last time she was in. Adrian had told her he was his best friend Tom, also from Ireland. Even though she’d never actually met him, it felt like she knew him from all the stories that Adrian had told about their antics. “What can I get you?” he asked. “You’re Tom, right?” she asked with a big smile and stuck out her hand. “I’m Sasha.” His eyes sparked with recognition, and he gave her a smile. “Aye, Adrian’s lovely lady nice to meet you.” “I thought he would be here. Is he outside or in the kitchen?” Sasha asked looking around. “Ummm no he’s upstairs. I’ll go get him for you,” Tom replied. Sasha hopped off the bar stool and yelled over the noise. “It’s fine. I won’t pull you from what you are doing. I’ll go up, those stairs right?” “No wait!” Tom called out, but she was already bouncing up the steps to see the man she loved. His apartment seemed to be the only door on the upper level of the bar, and when she stood outside the barrier, she heard talking. She knocked and it took a minute before he opened the door, and she heard scuffling. She frowned a little and wondered what was going on. When he opened the door just a crack, she as even more curious. “Hey, Tom said you were up here so here I am.” She smiled. His eyes were not filled with life and happiness as usual. Instead he looked at her warily. “Tom let you up here?” 44

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“Um no he was behind the bar, so I told him I’d just come up,” Sasha replied. “So you took it upon yourself to come up here without permission,” Adrian snapped. Sasha’s smile faded away, and her temper rose. “One I didn’t know I needed permission since you are always at my house, and two what the hell’s the matter with you?” She soon understood when she saw a hand creep around his shoulder with red painted nails. It seemed as if everything moved in slow motion. Sasha pushed the door wider and exposed a woman in Adrian’s apartment. Beautiful, sleek, and touching the man she thought was hers. “Who’s this?” the raven haired woman asked. “I didn’t know you were hiring, Adrian.” “Oh he’s not hiring in the least,” Sasha said through gritted teeth. “Care to explain, Adrian?” “There’s nothing to explain. You’ve seen Valerie. What else is there to say?” he asked. This can’t be happening. But here he was with another woman after all he said and all that they did. “So you’re saying she is with you,” Sasha said slowly trying to keep her voice calm. “Does she know you told me you loved me, you want to be with me, and that you’ve been practically living in my apartment?” “Adrian, have you been lying to this poor little waif?” The throaty purr came from the woman behind him. “Shut up before this waif takes you down like a thug from the Bronx,” Sasha snarled and turned her attention back to Adrian. “Explain yourself.” “What’s to explain? I said what I needed to say. We had fun, and that’s it. Time to move on.” His voice held no emotion, and she didn’t know what would have been worse, having him beg and plead and try to lie, or the completely deadpan way he spoke. “Were you planning on telling me about moving on before or after I caught you with that cat behind you?” Sasha asked. 45

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“What do you want from me, Sasha? You’re fun girl, but you can hardly sit still. You can’t even finish your schooling, and hell you play a ghost for fun.” Adrian shrugged. “There’s more to life than being carefree.” His words were like knives on her skin, and she gave a small smile. “Don’t worry. You will never have to see this girl again.” She turned on her heels, and the joyous speed that had taken her up the stairs turned to despair, and it made her move faster. Tom was coming up the stairs when she pushed past him. Tears filled her eyes, and she had to blink them back to see who it was. “Don’t, you don’t understand…” he tried to explain. But Sasha knew how men were. He was looking out for his friend. She shook her head wildly. “I understand perfectly. Let me go right now, or I’ll start screaming so loud you’ll think I’m one of your Irish banshees in here.” He let her go, and she pushed past people just to get out to the street. Even there she felt like she couldn’t breathe. The air was thick and humid and along with her broken heart it felt as if she was choking. Sasha rushed to her car and with frantic fingers she fumbled with the key to get it in the ignition. She cranked the air conditioner up to as far as it could go and as it turned the air cool she took gulps of air in trying to breathe. Her mind was trying to comprehend exactly what happened while her heart shattered as she replayed the scenes. The dam of tears began to fall, and Sasha slammed her hand against the wheel of her car. She let the torrent past before trying to drive, and by the time the key turned in the lock of her apartment, she was numb. I can’t think! She looked around frantically to find something to take her mind off the betrayal, the pain, the way it made her feel sick to her stomach. She saw her desk, all her papers and her work. She kicked off her shoes and went to her desk and started pulling out plans. She opened the document of her thesis and immersed herself in the project that would get her a degree. It wasn’t for the enjoyment of it or for the accomplishment, but to forget she’d never known that there was something that could break her. Adrian was her Achilles heel. If she let the 46

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pain in, she would fracture and like humpty dumpty there would be nothing that could put her together again. **** “That went well,” Valerie purred. Adrian swung around to face her, and while he never hit a woman in his life, rage so fierce made him walk over to his kitchen and grab a drink without a word. Anything to stop him from giving in to the blatant anger. The look on Sasha’s face tore him up inside. The way the tears welled up in her eyes was an image he would never forget. It had to be done. She couldn’t know the danger she was in at that time. It was the only way to save her, yet he swore he saw the spark that made Sasha the unique person she was go out in that instant. It was his fault, and he didn’t know if he could ever fix what he’d just destroyed. In his kitchen, he didn’t hear Valerie come up but felt her arms slide around his waist. “Well since you’re little friend is gone, maybe I can do something to comfort…..” She never got to finish the words. With speed he grabbed her hands from around his waist and pushed her way. When he stepped toward her, she retreated until the wall was at her back and he in front of her. Adrian practically roared, “You think I would want your scaly flesh touching mine? You disgust me, a whore from John’s camp and you think you can ever match up to Sasha? I did that to protect her, to keep her from the whole bloody mess that is my life. So she’s gone, but don’t ever think you can take her place. I would rather lie with dogs. You’re a cold bitch and dead inside. I pity you trying to catch scraps from men who obviously don’t want you. Now get out. I have the dates and the time. I don’t want to look at you anymore. Go fuck John. He might appreciate it.” He watched her face turn from horror to pure rage at his insults. She turned and grabbed her coat off the chair before heading out the door. He felt some satisfaction in knowing he gave her a glancing blow even in the

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coldness that was her heart. She shoved past Tom as he came in, and Adrian sat heavily on the sofa. “Why did you let her up here?” Adrian asked. “The girl was off the stool and up the stairs before I could say anything,” Tom explained. “Shit, you didn’t want to see the lass’s face when she came back down. It broke my heart.” Adrian felt like someone turned a knife in his heart as well. If Tom could see it, he’d hurt her badly. “Aye, I’ll talk to her after this damn sting is over.” “Will she want to hear it, Adrian? I don’t think…” “She’ll listen,” Adrian snapped. “In a few days go check on her for me. I can’t go after pulling that scene with Valerie there. But you can make sure she is ok. Everything will be fine.” “So the date is set then?” Adrian asked. “Next Friday, after the bar closes and River Street is empty,” Adrian replied. “You’ll have to take that information to Jordan as well. The eyes will be watching me more than ever.” He said it and tried to believe it. There was no other option, because if it was over, what was all this for in the first place? Nothing would be worth a damn thing without Sasha to share it with. **** A few days later, Adrian sat waiting for Tom to come back from Sasha’s house. He’d sent him there to check on her and to see if anyone was watching her just in case she was still in danger. It was Sunday and the bar was still in the midst of the early afternoon lunch, so it was relatively quiet. When Ton finally strode in and sat next at the bar, he said nothing for a few minutes. Adrian slid a beer in front of his friend and asked impatiently, “Well, how did it go?” Tom took a sip from the bottle of Guinness. “Not good.”

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“Are you going to elaborate, or do you want me to shake it out of you?” Adrian snapped. After the incident with Sasha he’d found his mood getting progressively worse. “I’d like to see you try it,” Tom replied. “You need to curb that attitude with me. I’m not afraid to punch you.” Adrian refused to apologize. “Just tell me what happened.” “For one I stood out there ringing the doorbell for more than a bloody hour. Her car was there, and she refused to even say hello through the intercom,” Tom began. “Then a neighbor was leaving and with my usual charm I got some information. Sasha has not left her apartment in days, nor has she been playing her usual ghostly roil on the balcony I was told. None of her friends have come by, and her answering machine is full.” “Maybe she’s gone out of town. Oh shit, you don’t think that John and his people did anything, do you?” Adrian felt anger and panic rise in his chest. Tom shook his head. “Don’t get your knickers in a twist. She’s there. The friendly neighbor—Diane is her name—let me in after I gave her some flimsy excuse about her having some paperwork. She was certain that nothing was wrong with Sasha because she was picking up her mail in the foyer of the building. I rang her doorbell when I got upstairs, and she came to the door looking disheveled and wearing glasses. To which when she saw my face, she told me in no uncertain terms get away from her door. If not she would call her police friend and get me arrested, the end.” “So she is just holed up in her apartment,” Adrian asked. “It’s messy too. When she opened the door I could see food takeout cartons and papers all over the place,” Tom commented. “I tried to tell her that everything was not as it seems, that she might want to listen to you if you came calling. When she heard your name, she couldn’t help but sob, and then she slammed the door in my face.” “I thought you said the end before.” Adrian hit his hand against the bar, and everyone close by jumped. “Calm yourself before we have no customers,” Ton snapped. ‘You thought it would be easy to get her back, because you are the charming 49

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Adrian Faraday. Boyo, you broke her heart. Even if it was for the right reasons, you did it the wrong bloody way. Now take your lumps.” “I’ll take my lumps alright, right out of John’s hide,” Adrian growled.

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Chapter Six The plan went off without a hitch. So perfect that it played out like a television show where the bad guys were in jail and all was right in the world. The bar closed, and when the last of the cars pulled out of the parking lot, and cabs were called to usher the drunk tourists back to their hotels, John strode in. He tried to look dapper in jeans that covered his fat body and a leather jacket while wearing sunglasses even though it was the middle of the night. Valerie held his hand like the devoted concubine, and Adrian wondered if the idiot knew that she had tried to use her body to snag him. Adrian had no doubt women like Valerie did what needed to be done. She didn’t meet his gaze, and that old him her feelings still smarted from his words. “Adrian Faraday, how good to see you!” John called out and held out his hand. “We should have a drink.” “We’re not here to pretend we like each other, John. Let’s get this over with,” he snapped. “You want your goods. Let’s go get them.” He watched John’s eyes turn cold. “In the old days we conducted business like men, civilized, and people knew how to treat their elders.” “You are not my family hence I don’t have to respect you. You held my uncle over a barrel of his own choosing. Let it be known I don’t have such a plight,” he replied. He watched Valerie hide a smirk, and he narrowed his eyes at the woman dressed in leather pants and a top. What’s that about? More than likely Valerie had another ace up her sleeve. Women like her didn’t ever walk without a plan B, and from the look on her face, she had one. The poor bastard at her side wouldn’t see the betrayal when it came. Two of John’s men grabbed Adrian and punched him in the gut. Tom caught the one closest to him around the neck in a chokehold that could easily break a neck. Adrian came up with a fist and made sure he connected with the other man’s nose. He felt great satisfaction in hearing the bone break under his fist and blood gush.

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You’re the One That I Want

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“Enough!” John called out. “Must we resort to a bar brawl? We’ll be doing this a long time, and there is money to be made. Let’s go get the goods, and we can leave his bar without wood being splintered.” “Heel, boys.” Adrian grinned wickedly. Tom shoved the other man away, and they went back to their boss’s side. From there, it was John who led the way through Fergus’s tunnels. He’d been there a few times so while he walked he chatted about Ireland and maybe visiting taking a trip there in the fall. Adrian refused to be pulled into the conversation, so after awhile John, directed his attention to Valerie. They stood at the opening of the tunnel hidden by underbrush under the river and close to the bridge. It looked like an overgrowth of thorns and bushes, so of course no one would be expecting that behind all that a tunnel led to River Street. The motor of a speedboat was heard, and soon the pristine white machine came across the river moving with sleek speed. When the boat came close to the shore, the driver cut the engine and threw a rope to the bank. John’s men began pulling it in. “Help them,” John ordered. “Fuck no. I’m not your lackey, nor is Tom,” Adrian shot back. “You’ve got balls.” John signed. “Your impudence is going to get you killed.” “When you are ready let me know. I’ll give you a good fight,” he replied mildly. John shook his head and watched as his men finally had the boat close enough to shore they could get the cargo off its deck. Of course they had to get their feet wet, but Adrian said nothing. Finally, John moved over to the crate and opened one. He cut a package and pulled a drug test kit from his pocket to test the purity of his heroin. The big grin on his face told Adrian he was satisfied, and his men began to roll it into the tunnels. As soon as it was back on Faraday property, the cops moved in with lights and sirens. They seemed to come out of the darkness, loud voices screaming for them to drop to the ground, and they all complied. Jordan went over to the merchandise and turned to Adrian with a grin. “This is the mother load. You did good.” 52

You’re the One That I Want

Dahlia Rose

John turned to him in rage. “You did this? You will fucking die for it!” “Can we add threatening to kill me to the charge?” Adrian asked. “Sure. If you stub your toe, we’ll tack on another fifty years to his charge,” Jordan replied. He shook Valerie’s hand. “Good Job, detective.” Adrian couldn’t help that his mouth dropped open. “Detective, why didn’t you tell me she was on the inside all this time?” “Because we needed more than the drugs. We needed the paper and money trail, and she got us that.” Jordan grinned. “She sure had you fooled. The wire picked up the nasty things you had to say to her. Maybe you should think about an apology.” “Don’t worry. It’s all part of the job,” Valerie replied. “I’ll talk to your girl if you need me to.” “I’ll handle my own business, thanks,” Adrian replied and then said grudgingly, “I’ll think about the apology though.” Valerie grinned. “You do that.” The wrap up and the witness statements went on through the night. John’s men folded and told on his dirty dealings, sealing the old man’s fate. By nine in the morning Adrian was completely exhausted, but his mind turned to Sasha, and instead of going home, he drove directly to her house. Sasha came out looking better than ever in a rose business suit and carrying a large portfolio case. Her hair that usually hung lose was pulled into a tight bun, and she was wearing sunglasses. Unable to help himself Adrian ran up to her. If she was surprised to see him, the dark tint of the glasses hid it well. But the chill that came off her body and the rigid way she held her shoulders told him everything was far from ok. Adrian shoved his hands in his pockets. If he didn’t he would end up grabbing her to him. “Hey.” She inclined her head and only said his name. “Adrian.” Sasha wasn’t going to give an inch, so he went on. “Everything I said to you, everything you saw was a lie. Baby, I was trying to protect you. I can tell you everything now. My uncle left me his deal with some blasted drug dealer. I was working with the cops to get him in jail. The girl in my apartment was working for John, but then I found out she was an 53

You’re the One That I Want

Dahlia Rose

undercover detective. They threatened to kill you, baby. I couldn’t let you be hurt, so I had to send you away for your own protection.” “So you decided to hurt me in another way instead?” She gave a somber laugh. “You know how people say you can hear a glimmer of truth in the lies. I heard it from you, the talk about me being a child, how I didn’t complete my thesis and I needed to grow up. I got all that. You were always on my ass about my degree. Hell at one point you asked about my rent. I’m glad your police raid or whatever worked out. I’m glad you are safe. But I took your advice. I grew up and finished my thesis, sent it in. I’m on my way for my final interview and then off to another interview for a job in the career field I was taught in.” “What about your own business?” Adrian asked. “That was your dream.” He missed her the way she was, and it killed him that he was the cause of this person that was in front of him. This was not his Sasha. “Dreams fade when the sun rises and you get up for a new day.” Sasha moved past him to go to her car. “Goodbye, Adrian.” The finality of her words struck him and on instinct he whirled her around and pulled her tight against him. For a moment, a small instant in time, she relaxed into his touch, but just as quickly as it happened, he felt her body go rigid and hard as she put the wall back in place. “Let me go,” she said quietly. “Please, let me go.” No matter what she said, he heard the fragility in her voice. She was holding herself together as hard as she could so he couldn’t hurt her again. “I won’t let you go, and I won’t give up on you,” he muttered thickly even as his arms freed her and she turned to the car. He watched her get in and drive away before he got into his own vehicle and left. He would be back, wouldn’t let this be the end of something so important. Adrian was about to scale her walls and invade her heart once more, and this time he was never leaving again. ****

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You’re the One That I Want

Dahlia Rose

Sasha held it together through her thesis interview to explain her theories. She didn’t even remember half the questions she answered, and in an hour it was over. She grabbed a bottle of water from a store. She couldn’t eat because she knew it would not stay down. So she drank the water to stay hydrated in the Savannah heat and went to her job interview. There too she held her own, answered, smiled, laughed, and it all felt so fake. She assumed it went well because she came out with a handshake and a start date for her new job in two weeks. Missions accomplished. She proved to everyone she could do it. She wasn’t a screw up or living in a reality of her own. She was in the real world where she could conquer anything she put her mind to. Yet these thoughts brought her no satisfaction or happiness, just a gutwrenching knowledge that everything was forced. Not in her time but on another schedule. Sasha walked into the coolness of her apartment and dropped her portfolio on the floor. She stepped out of her professional three inch heels and threw the business coat aside, not caring where it landed. The skirt came off, and that too was left lying where it lay. By the time Sasha climbed into bed, she was in her bra and panties. It was only then that she let the pain in and hugged her knees to her while she cried. He hurt me so bad, she thought and cried all the while. His explanation made sense, but no one should be that cruel to protect someone they loved. She didn’t understand the bluntness of it, and maybe that’s why it hurt so bad. In her worldly ways Sasha realized that she was still naive and innocent enough to be hurt, and how would she overcome that? What if she let him in and he destroyed her again? Sasha cried until she fell asleep and knocking on her door made her get up with scratchy eyes that felt swollen. She opened the door without even caring to ask who it was, and Tom stood holding lilies in one hand and roses in the other. “These are from me because I kinda feel bad that I didn’t stop you fast enough and you got hurt feelings.” He extended out the lilies. “These roses are from Adrian ’cause he’s miserable without you, and if he snaps at me one more time I’m going to punch him. He is so very sorry, Sasha.”

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You’re the One That I Want

Dahlia Rose

She looked up at the tall man with the Irish lilt to his deep bass voice. His eyes held sadness, and as big as he was he shuffled his feet. “I’ll take yours ’cause you’re not at fault.” She took his lilies. She grabbed the roses and hit him in the chest with them until they fell apart and left their red petals across the hallway floor. “I don’t want his.” She could tell that Adrian was in the hallway. She could sense him as easily as she could feel her heart beating. She stuck her head past Tom’s big frame to look at the man who broke her heart. “That is what I think of your flowers, Adrian Faraday. Thanks for the flowers, Tom.” She closed the door in Tom’s grinning face and heard Adrian yell from behind the door. “You’ll not get rid of me that easy, Sasha. I will be back.” “I’ll be waiting,” she yelled back. “That’s my fire. You keep it up, a thaisce!” She pressed herself against the door and heard Tom calling him crazy as they went down the stairs. His treasure, the words were etched into her soul. She hated that her heart still jumped at his words, wished she could cut him out of her world and pretend that it was ok. Hell she couldn’t deny that she still loved him, but damn she was going to make him work for his supper. She didn’t think he would have been back that day, but she heard singing from the backyard again. Sasha calmly got up from watching TV and filled a big pot of water. She went out to her bedroom balcony and threw it out onto Adrian, cutting off his singing as he sputtered and coughed from being doused. “Cruel, Sasha, so cruel!” he called up to her. “That’s what you do when cats yowl outside your window,” she retorted. “I’m not giving up,” Adrian yelled. “I’ve been devoted to you from the very beginning.” “You hurt me!” Sasha blurted out. “Baby, please understand. I love you. God, I love you so much!” he implored. “Uh huh.” She closed the balcony door and left him outside. 56

You’re the One That I Want

Dahlia Rose

He began to sing again louder than ever, until one of the neighbors came out and promised to pay him to sing at her daughter’s wedding. He left after the song was done and yelled, “I love you, my treasure.” One of her neighbors called and told her to forgive him because he was a persistent Irishman. Plus, he didn’t need him singing outside every night since his wife was enjoying the show a little too much. She said she would think about it and went to bed. She had to admit, it was on her mind when she went to sleep. The morning came, and it was Sunday, but instead of her usual of sleeping in and just relaxing, she was roused from bed by loud pounding on her door. She pulled on a pair of shorts and a top not knowing what to expect. It was lucky she did because when she opened the door she was hauled over Tom’s shoulder and carried downstairs. “What the hell are you doing?” she screeched. “Tom, I don’t know what your last name is, put me down!” “Certainly not. I can’t have you slamming the door in my face now can I? There’s something you have to see. I’ve already taken pictures, but it has to be seen in person,” Tom said. “Oh, by the way, my last name is Shea, Thomas Shea.” “Uh huh, well, Tom Shea, is this kidnapping?” Sasha asked. “Nope better than that.” Tom’s voice held humor, and she soon saw why. There were balloons covering the entire sidewalk in front of her apartment building, along with fire breathers, stilt walkers, gymnasts, and clowns. Tourists and Savannah residents alike were watching the show that came with music. But one clown caught her attention, a tall one with a sad face. He wore a red clown suit and red nose, but his eyes wear painted on sad and his mouth too. It was the sweetest thing she ever saw, but when he held up a sign that said ‘Forgive me’ she felt her heart melt. He threw that down and the next one said, ‘I love you, my sweet treasure.’ That sign was thrown on the ground, and the last one said, ‘Marry me, and I will love you for the rest of my life.’

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You’re the One That I Want

Dahlia Rose

The crowd took up the chant of marry him as he walked forward slowly. This time he pulled out fake roses that she couldn’t destroy, and attached to one a ring hung, and it glinted in the sunlight. He sank to his knees in front of her. “Turn my frown upside down. Say you’ll be mine.” She nodded and she could feel the smile that was on her face carry straight to her heart. “I guess I can forgive you, but, Adrian Faraday, if you hurt me again, I’ll get drastic.” “Don’t worry. I’ll kick his ass myself,” Tom piped in. He got up and pulled her into his arms and lifted her high. He kissed her with face paint and all. This time it was her that left it smeared. “I love you so much Sasha. God knows I promise, I swear that no matter what, I will make it up to you for the hurt and the pain.” Adrian kissed her. “I ached for you. I missed you. No crummy job. You’ll start your own business and rock this town. I’ll be your dragon and your prince, and we’ll play ghost lovers every night for the rest of our lives.” “You have my heart, Adrian Faraday. You’re the one that I want, always,” she replied and laughed as he swung her around. “Now how long do we have this set up? The kids at the hospital will love it.” “It’s yours for as long as you want it, my treasure.” Adrian took her hand. ‘Let’s go entertain the kids.” Her heartache lifted. She felt like the world was opening again. Her lover, her clown, her Irish sweetheart. From their first dance in the pub that night, their lives were intertwined. She believed destiny and fate walked hand in hand. Just like her and Adrian.

The End

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